A popular television series features various forms of communal living in America. Weekly episodes feature the Hutterites, the Amish, and other peripheral movements. Granted there are dysfunctional displays, after all it is drama. The tension makes for good TV. And I notice misapplication of Bible beliefs and intentions, as well as improper understanding of Church practice. But as one embedded in American norms, I am struck with the simplicity of their lifestyles. Each movement is absolutely c...

A number of years ago I was asked to be the speaker at a special banquet in honor of newly ordained ministers. I asked my wife Stefanie to help me on a project. She is very good with crafts. We went to a craft supply and purchased the items needed to make a Bible that would fit on the bookshelf in each of their libraries. We painted it to appear just like any other Bible you would have in your collection. The Bible was made of cardboard and was hollow. In it we recreated the Elisha Room of 2 ...

I don't believe I have ever met a Christian that has not, at one time or another, willingly or by provocation, participated in the kid-song Father Abraham had many sons. It is our Christian version of the Hokey Pokey.

Do you remember when the religious leaders got in an argument with Jesus? They claimed special credentials because they were from the lineage of Abraham. I can just hear the dripping arrogance as they retort, "Abraham is our father." Jesus said in essence, "I know you're from the...