Thoughts From the Kennedy Funeral: The Gospel Redefined

Thoughts From the Kennedy Funeral: The Gospel Redefined

by | Aug 29, 2009 | Featured Articles, Politics

Obvious lessons can be learned from Senator Kennedy’s funeral; the description of the gospel is one of the most interesting. In my years of scattered interest in politics, Christianity and the gospel are not words that came to mind first and foremost when hearing Ted Kennedy’s name. His Irish Catholic heritage was obviously deep in his family and for him personally.  Much has been made of Senator Kennedy’s recent confessional letter to the Pope.  His Catholicism is concerning enough, but is not what I found most intriguing (though it is interesting to see how many call his Catholicism ‘faithful’ when he opposed so much of it publicly).  I won’t comment on the funeral mass – that’s another issue. Instead, I found it fascinating to listen to the more liberal commentators stretch themselves to talk about how “Christian” Senator Kennedy was. Social work alone was the heart of Jesus’ message.  Matthew 25 and its description of what was done for “the least of these” is the single defining mark of Christianity. The gospel is “working for the little guy.” Personal immorality is inconsequential when working for social justice. A denial of the exclusivity of the gospel of Jesus as the only way to the Father. Denial of genuine discipleship and loyalty to Christ as presented in the whole of the Bible.  Very little was said of Jesus Christ outside of social justice terms. A division between the social ethic of Jesus and the rest of the New Testament. Only certain social issues are worth mentioning. Much was championed about his vocal call for an increase in the minimum wage, and little...

Analysis of the California ballot measures

by | Nov 3, 2008 | Politics

Thanks to Pastor Stephen Jones pointing out some analysis from a Christian perspective on the California ballot initiatives.  While I don’t think that bond issues are by definition a Christian vs. Non-Christian issue, I do think some important analysis is provided here that you may find informative.  I don’t agree with or endorse every recommendation here, but propositions 4 and 8 are no-brainer “yes” votes, from a biblical perspective.   Voting is at least one manner in which we can engage our American culture with a biblically informed conscience. The Desert Chronicle: Analysis of the California ballot...

Piper Clarifies Stance on a Woman Vice President

by | Nov 2, 2008 | Culture, Politics, Presidential History

A few days ago, I linked to John Piper’s video that, among other issues, stated his concerns about a mother pursuing public office.  Today, Dr. Piper clarifies his position in light of some who would assume it may be worse to vote for a woman to be Vice President than a man who supports abortion. Why a Woman Shouldn’t Run for Vice President, but Wise People May Still Vote for Her :: Desiring...