Why the Social Trinity is Attractive
Many smart Christians affirm the idea of the social Trinity. And yet Keith Ward says it’s a “bad idea.” It makes sense to evaluate the reasons some Christians like the social Trinity idea on the way to proposing an alternative. In my previous post, I noted that Ward believes Christians should not say God is […]
When Jesus Fails
Many Christians believe Jesus never fails. But that’s not what scripture says. Our acknowledging that Jesus sometimes failed can help us make sense of life and live more abundantly. Jesus Cannot Heal All One my favorite examples (among others) of Jesus failing is his attempt to do miracles in his hometown. The people of Nazareth […]
Theological and Scientific Research on Love
The well-being of the world depends, in part, upon our decisions to promote overall well-being. That’s just a fancy way of saying: we need to love! Many people know that love, altruism, and compassion plays central roles for making sense of life and living life well. For centuries, various religious traditions and philosophers have recognized this. […]
My Response to Howard Snyder
My friend, Howard Snyder, has written a review of my new book, The Uncontrolling Love of God. I thought it might be helpful if I responded. I have great respect for Howard and his work. Although we disagree on several theological issues, I count him as an important voice in Wesleyan Theology. Howard’s review is […]
Making Sense of God and Evil
We all want to make sense of life. But tragedies and evils – whether caused by free creatures, microorganisms, or random events – make it difficult to do so.
Revenge is in God’s Hands? – The Revenant
The Revenant is in my opinion and the opinions of many, this year’s best picture. Revenge, a common plotline of action movies, drives the main character. But The Revenant’s storylines and conclusion raise questions about who properly takes revenge. The movie is based on the true struggle for survival of trapper-hunter Hugh Glass (played by […]
Avoiding the Mystery Card
I’ve been reading what great and not so great theologians say about evil. The vast majority believe an almighty God could stop evil. But they don’t know why a loving God doesn’t do so. It’s a mystery, they say. I’ve recently published a book that solves the problem of evil. The Uncontrolling Love of God offers […]
Ten Books that Influenced Me in 2015
Good books change our perspective on God, the world, or ourselves. Good books have changed my perspective in 2015.
Mary Cooperates with Uncontrolling Love
“Be it unto me,” says Mary, the mother of Jesus. She speaks in response to the Spirit’s plans for a special incarnation. And in her consent, Mary becomes a powerful example of what it means to cooperate with God’s uncontrolling love. Biblical Support for Essential Kenosis Many people are saying they find attractive the vision […]
Spotlight Reveals Institutional Complicity
The new movie, Spotlight, tells the ugly story of clergy sexual abuse of children. But what the movie says about institutional complicity reveals the ugly side of church leadership.