At the end of last year’s Setting our Stories Straight series, I teased out what I called a ‘Summary of Affirmations’. This was particularly helpful framing for me since that series was so much about criticizing Modern Christian narratives: After writing so much about what I don’t believe is authentic Christian teaching, it was nice … Continue reading Pathways of Peace: Summary of Affirmations
One of the common tropes in the Gospels is how different groups of people hostile to Jesus’ teaching would try to ensnare him in his words in order to discredit him, only to have Jesus escape the trap and carry the day. Sometimes, as for example with the ‘Render unto Caesar’ teaching (which directly precedes … Continue reading The God of Life: A Reflection on Luke 20.27-38
Today marks the end of this series, the second on this blog that has engaged with efforts to ‘decolonize’ Christian thought and practice. In June 2021, I looked at some of the false narratives Christians told to underpin European imperialism and colonization, including the ‘Doctrine of Discovery’, the myths of Christendom and Progress, and damaging … Continue reading Walking the Pathways of Peace: Summary and Conclusions
Then afterward I will pour out my spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female slaves, in those days I will pour out my spirit. (Joel 2.28-29) These words uttered by the prophet … Continue reading Embodying Values in Visions and Dreams
There’s an old saying that goes, “As long as there are exams, there will be prayer in public schools.” And another, “There are no atheists in the trenches.” While I don’t necessarily agree with the conclusions of these sayings, their shared premise does have a point. We tend to look for God, not out of … Continue reading Whose Faith?: A Reflection on Habakkuk 1.1-4, 2.1-4
Matthew Root 