Parchment & Pen Blog

Martin Luther talked of a “theology of the cross” (theologia cruces), The God who suffers with and for human beings reveals himself in humility—most clearly in the person of Jesus of Nazareth.  Luther disapproved of “theologians of glory” who confidently presented abstract “proofs.”  Why?  Such theologians may be in danger of obscuring both the cross, [...]

I don’t think that there is a more valuable phrase that I have learned than this. “The palatability of a doctrine does not determine its veracity.” I believe this is true. There are two key words here: “palatability” and “determine.” Palatability refers to appeal, tastefulness, and emotional response to something. “Determine” according to the dictionary [...]

I know that I said that I would not take the title, but something happened today that has forced me to reconsider both the titles postmodern and emerging. I do believe that I am now an emerger. Here is the story…

What is it that makes theology so important? Why can’t we just love Jesus and move past all of these definitive articulations of belief that seem to divide those who follow Christ? Can’t we all just get along and leave theology a mystery and get back to the buisness of being Christ bearers?

  Since Sam Storms is our special guest on Converse with Scholars this week, I thought that I would introduce you to him by pointing you to his website: http://www.enjoyinggodministries.com. This website has a wealth of theological, biblical, and historical material that is of the highest quality. I encourage you all to visit the site in preparation for [...]

Reclaiming the Mind Ministries is hosting a special Converse with Scholars during the next two weeks. I am very excited about this program as we are having two great scholars on to represent their respecting positions (although, don’t we always?). Tonight, March 22 at 10pm EST, Roger Olson will be joining us to discuss the Arminian position. The [...]

Considering our Converse with Scholars broadcasts on Calvinism and Arminianism for the next two weeks, I thought that I would post this. It looks really good. It can be purchased here for a reasonable price. Has anyone seen it?

I often tell the story during my Introduction to Theology class of an experience that I had that deeply implicated me and has affected the way that I “listen” to God’s movements in my life. It concerns an event that happened in 2003 with my sister Angie. It has to do with how experience can [...]

OK, I am back . . . and I am tired, excited, thoughtful, scared, and thankful. I am tired, but not for the reasons why you would think. Zach’s delivery went perfect with no complications. Why am I tired? Because I have been having to see life from Kristie’s eyes for the last few days. [...]

1. He has relinquished control to me because he finally realized how much wiser I am than he. 2. I have him bound and gagged in my basement and am forcing him to turn from his emergent ways. 3. He is in the process of reading Matthew Henry’s Commentary in toto and just can’t seem [...]

  Once again, we continue with our evaluation of the four primary views that people have taken in engaging our postmodern culture. And, once again, here are the options of the original post: Option 1: Deny the horse is really postmodern. No one can be a consistent postmodern. We simply need to convince them of the untenability [...]