Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better

What we are practicing is specialized Christianity. It is broken down into age groups, marital status, Biblical knowledge, and areas of expertise. We are no longer parts, but little wholes, satisfied with the bad reflection of Jesus that bounces off the one part of the body that we represent. We boast of our particular ability. At the same time, we are not able, and do not desire, to share Christ with someone else.

Specialization within the Body of Christ creates a comfort zone for a few who are comfortable with the formula developed for sharing the Gospel. In an effort to simplify, we have petrified the Gospel to a certain kind of response to a specific ritual. The joy of sharing Christ, the Good News, has been turned into the fear of a pop quiz. We never know when we need to spit it out, but we better be ready.

What is the answer? Let us deritualize the Gospel. Let us put life back into the story of God who died for a dead world.

Death at the Door

During the day, the death of two very public people has come to the attention of the world. Most of those people have never met or seen Michael Jackson or Farrah Fawcett. But, the world is greatly moved by this news. Why?

Truly, these entertainers gave the world many memories. I believe that this is not the only reason for the interest. Even now, there are probably many discussions being had about star deaths coming in threes. Who's next? This could be the most asked question around. This is just a facade.

The world is interested because it is made aware again of the certainty and reality of death. "And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment." (Heb 9:27)

For those who know Christ, there is no fear of this judgment. "Death is swallowed up in victory." (I Cor 15:54) There is no hope after life outside of Jesus.

The Galloping Theologian

Anticipation

The prospects of today are clouded by the anticipation of tomorrow.

Conservative

Conservative theology is not against change. The message does not change. Methods may change. Method must not contradict message. We must identify the true message. A wrong message that is easy to hear is still the wrong message.

Always look for an opening to share the true message.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

You lose the respect you command, when you fail to respect those you command.

Contentment

Kris Kristofferson wrote the song "Sunday Morning Coming Down." One of the most memorable recordings of this song was made by Johnny Cash. Besides being one of the best interpretations of that song, it also is able to invoke many different emotions by the lyrics.

I will tell you that I have never personally experienced numerous parts of that song, but it causes me to recall a thought every time I hear it. Melancholy almost always accompanied this song, especially since I was forced from filling the pulpit every Sunday because of my health.

The subject of my health must wait for another day. But, for years I would wake up on Sunday with an urge to go on about the truths of the Bible. I was that old plow horse retired from the fields, but ready to be hooked up in harness.

This would bother me. I would say that depression was just around the corner.

Paul wrote that he had learned to be content, no matter what state he found himself in. This is a magnificent truth. Following God through Jesus Christ our Lord can always clear our thoughts and push us through the trials of "Sunday Morning Coming Down."

The Galloping Theologian

Eternal Being

There is a grand argument that has stretched over many centuries. This discussion of origins divides cultures, nations, societies, etc. It is called many things. Division happens between many groups.The simplest title for this contest is said to be that of Evolution versus Creation.

One group might be labeled godless by one. The one is branded as ignorant and stupid.

I would like to raise a question at this time. Personally, for me, this diversion of thought has started simply enough. I will call it the "Great Presupposition." It is not the argument of egg and chicken. It is much simpler than that.

Something has to be eternal. Something was there before anything else. Was it matter or God? Material or Being has to be the "Great First."

We will continue this conversation. The Galloping Theologian

The gallop is the running motion of a horse. During each stride, all four legs are off the ground at once. When this stride is happening, all four legs are flexed under the body.

Now, I am not a horse. My running days are over. But, as a Galloping Theologian, I will race as fast as I can to address all topics that confront Christians in today's Culture.

I invite you to join me in these conversations, and hang in for the ride.

The Galloping Theologian

Being Sensitive During Insensitive Times

Most, if not all, Christians think of themselves as the protector of the downtrodden, feeder of the poor, provider of shelter, and all around nice guy. A shudder runs down the spine of the normal church member when the words of Jesus tell of providing water when He was thirsty and food when He was hungry. When these are given to the most insignificant, they are given to Him. So when the hat is passed and the missionaries are present, we give of our Christian duty.

We volunteer. We help the obvious. Yet, people within our realm of influence go without. Someone in your congregation, at this moment is without a job. Parents are going hungry because there is only enough food for the children. Utilities have just been disconnected in the home of someone we know. Families are being torn apart in silence.

If they would only ask for help, it would be provided. We even dare to say that it is not our fault. These people are suffering in silence. We can't fix what we don't know to be broke. But, that's the rub.

The world system will help if it is applied for. The Christian system should be so sensitive to those around them, especially those we rub elbows with, to be able to be led by the Holy Spirit to plug a hole. People with needs are treated many times as people with disease. We don't want to catch the problem of needing help. Besides, who will then help us.