What’s So Special About Being Human? (Whose Rules Rule 3)
First published 24 October 2010 What I’ve done so far in this series of blog articles is only to sketch outlines. I’ve tried to outline the fundamental difference between Christian morality and non-religious philosophies of morality – the final authority. For the Christian the final authority in all matters is God, and He communicates through…
What Makes Something Wrong? (Whose Rules Rule 2)
First published 10 October 2011 I made a big assertion in my last article. I said that the non-religious people of the West basically see themselves as the final authority when it comes to deciding what is right and wrong. I see that as the primary reason for conflict between Christian moral standards and the…
What is Sin? (Whose Rules Rule 1)
First published 28 September 2011 When non-religious people talk with Christians about morality they normally do so with the belief that there is common ground that can form the basis of discussion. But there ultimately isn’t! In terms of the ultimate principles that underpin and guide what we feel is right and wrong, we are…
Where Shall We Turn in Times of Doubt?
First published 21 May 2010 Times of doubt A while ago I wrote to encourage those who are worried that they don’t have strong enough faith. I was, to be honest, concerned that my previous reflections may be overly dogmatic, and end up discouraging those who read and say, “I still don’t get it!” I…
What is Prayer?
First published 5 May 2010 “Do not be anxious about anything,” says Paul, “but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6) James writes, “Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray.” (James 5:13) If we turn to Matthew 26, when Jesus was “sorrowful and troubled”…
For the Encouragement of Faithful Doubters
First published 7 April 2010 Some people seem to have rock solid faith. They talk about God, Jesus, and the world, as if they see things with absolute clarity and as if nothing is going to shake them. This can be disturbing for people for whom things are not so clear. They feel like they…
Is Christian Comfort ‘Pie in the Sky’?
First published 18 March 2010 This post is now incorporated with 22 other similar ‘reflections’ in my book, Facing Cancer with Faith. Well it’s not quite what I expected to be dwelling on when I started my blog just over 6 months ago, but my thoughts on hardship and suffering as a Christian do seem…