Attention Word Slingers readers: Beginning December 11, 2019, all posts will be available at BaptistMessenger.com. Thank you for reading Word Slingers!
It was cold earlier this week, warm yesterday and today and will soon be cold again. Yep, this is Oklahoma.
I’m handing out a lot of “props” in this week’s DHD. I start off with two men I seem to frequently recognize, give kudos to another friend’s excellent blog, and I commend my own state. Here we go!
Moore is right. This popular verse of “If my people…” has been used out of context for years. His column may cause some to bristle, but he shares the truth. A huge takeaway from the piece is how he emphasized the point that Christians need to emphasize Christ:
“If we don’t understand the question of who we are, first and foremost, as the people of God, then we are going to miss this. If we take this text and bypass the people of God, applying it to America in general or the Bible Belt in particular, as though our citizenship as Americans or Australians or Albanians is the foundation of the “covenant” God has made with us, the problem is not just that we are misinterpreting the text; the problem is that we are missing Christ.”
Don’t take Moore as one who is dissing our country or fellow Americans. Instead, consider his intention to be providing proper context which in turn provides proper perspective, especially how Christians should value the relationship we have with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and share Him with others. This may not make our country “great,” but the impact would be beyond anything we can imagine (Eph. 3:20).
I regularly analyze pop culture because it’s so frequently discussed, even more so today with the saturation of social media. It’s a way to connect with other people and what interests them. Pop culture and its characters of celebrities have always been persuasive, especially among young people. The key is how to communicate truth, especially the wonderful truth of the Gospel, through the words and behaviors of such influential charmers.
Like Wax, this is why I write cultural commentary.
Christi shares her own experience as a PP client, and she offers a valid aspect of how wrong, deceiving and inhumane Planned Parenthood is. She does not defame Lawrence, though she explains her disagreements with the young actress, but Christi’s message is clear that the leading abortion provider is a dangerous organization that holds way too much power as it misleads many in our country, especially vulnerable women.
Oklahoma No. 1 Pro-Life State
Americans United for Life announced this week that Oklahoma is the most pro-life state because of its state legislation and the culture it provides that promotes the sanctity of life.
Usually, Oklahoma gets a bad rap on state rankings on other topics, but I appreciate AUL’s recognition of how those of us in the Sooner State demonstrate the importance of all human life, regardless of stage.
Recent GOP Debate
I did watch the Republican Presidential Debate Thursday night. I agree with the common perspective that Donald Trump and Ted Cruz were the leaders of the event, along with Marco Rubio and Chris Christie.
It’s beginning to look like those are the favorites. Trump is leading the overall polls, and Cruz seems to be an early favorite to win the Iowa Caucus. Rubio could make some ground in the South Carolina primary, while Christie’s hope of sticking around depends on whether or not he could win in New Hampshire.
At this point, all other candidates seem to have their campaigns on life support.
Big 12 news
I close with comments about the Big 12 Conference receiving NCAA’s approval this week for having a conference championship game in football.
The best analysis I have read is from Berry Tramel who wrote on OU President David Boren’s remarks that the Big 12 needs to focus not only on reviving a championship football game, but also look to expanding the conference back to 12 schools and add a conference network, which as Tramel points out, is a jab at The Longhorn Network, but the suggestion is a sensible one.
Were you hit with reality as much as I was this week, after experiencing a Christmas break? Whew!
Fortunately, I am thankful for my job and enjoy having the opportunity to work with many great people who are involved in ministry and sharing the news about what is happening among Oklahoma Baptists and beyond. Even when there are busy weeks, especially after a nice break, I can still appreciate what I get to do for a living.
And that includes writing about six timely topics every week. So here’s this week’s Doyle’s Half Dozen!
Moore speaks on the gun issue
I have been wondering when/if Russell Moore would address the issue of gun possession/control. It has been a hot topic for a few months now. I wrote about the issue when it involved John Piper and Jerry Falwell, Jr. a few weeks ago.
Usually when a social issue goes viral, I often am curious if the president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission would present his take. And this week, Dr. Moore did just that on the gun issue, and once again, his perspective amazed me.
I have read “Is Gun Control a Christian Issue?” three times since it came out on Tuesday. This is so good and has so much great content. I could have devoted my entire DHD to this article.
One segment I will address is how he answers the question of how someone can say they are “Pro-Life” and be against gun control. He handles this masterfully:
“Wherever one stands on gun control, no one is denying the personhood of gun victims or their right to be protected from violence…This is quite different from the abortion debate where one side denies the personhood of those subject to lethal violence.”
That right there, friends, is a magnificent answer. But read the rest because there’s a lot more packed in this piece that is one of the most objective commentaries on guns.
Sneak peek on Strobel
The lead story for next week’s Baptist Messenger is a Q&A article with Lee Strobel. The well-known Christian apologetics writer is one of the keynote speakers for this year’s Oklahoma State Evangelism Conference (SEC), which will be at First Southern Baptist Church in Del City, Jan. 25-26.
Strobel gives some great answers that involve how to do personal evangelism. He also shares some great stories of his Gospel-sharing experiences in the book he co-wrote with Mark Mittelberg The Unexpected Adventure.
I have never heard Strobel speak in person. I have read his books and heard him speak on podcasts, but I am looking forward to hearing him at this year’s SEC. He comes across being very personable, and I get the feeling, being from Chicago, he would be a big sports fan. Maybe I will have the chance to ask him to see if he is. Stay tuned, DHD fans!
Speaking of sports
It seems like we made a drastic change of focus this week among Oklahoma sports fans from football to basketball. People are STILL talking about the game for the ages on Monday that occurred in Lawrence, Kan. involving OU facing the Jayhawks in Allen Fieldhouse. A triple overtime Kansas victory over the Sooners was a huge promotional boost for college basketball, as it seems like both teams were deemed victorious after such a hard-fought, competitive matchup.
I made a bold prediction that when OU-KU face each other again in Norman, the Sooners will win by double figures.
On a separate basketball topic, I’ll make another bold prediction that will happen in about two years. Watch out for Thunder center Steven Adams. I predict the New Zealander will up his game to include a mid-range jump shot within the next two seasons and become a well-rounded player, similar to Memphis Grizzlies’ all-star center Marc Gasol.
Preventing payment to Planned Parenthood
This week, both the U.S. House and Senate approved a bill to cut almost 90 percent of federal funding to Planned Parenthood Federation of American. Though there are critics to this approach, because they believe not approving the current budget bill and making a statement against PP in this fashion would have made a more bold statement, I applaud this declaration.
And whether you agree with Congress’ defunding bill method, this congress still has accomplished more in light of Sanctity of Life than it did in its last eight years.
PP & Hillary = A significant election marker
The line in the sand has been drawn. Planned Parenthood announced this week it has endorsed Hillary Clinton, and it is the first time ever the largest abortion provider has ever endorsed a candidate.
PP also announced it is planning to spend more than $20 million during the 2016 election. This is as bold and as clear of a statement that PP is trying to overcome the major hit they took from the videos that exposed their practice of selling aborted baby parts.
Trevin Writes
My final topic is an applaud to Trevin Wax, whose “Trevin’s Seven” weekly column inspired “Doyle’s Half Dozen,” who recently graduated with his doctoral degree at Southeastern Seminary.
His blog titled “I Am Going to Write” was a great encouragement to me this week, and I share the same conclusions he made in regards to writing.
Happy New Year’s Eve to you! So much happened in 2015. Personally, I can look back and think of heavy times, both personally and culturally. I also recall joyful times that allow me to be thankful for family, friends and people I admire and appreciate.
The year 2015 was a time of challenge and of accomplishment. It was a year of facing ethical issues that were so bold, direct, unavoidable and yet refining. These issues required us as Evangelical Christians, followers of Christ, those “who belonged to The Way” (Acts 9:2) to search for ourselves what we do believe, and they required us to give a defense for anyone who asks for the hope that is in us (I Pet. 3:15-16).
For this edition of Doyle’s Half Dozen, I focus on six “Difference Makers.” This is not an exhaustive list. I’m just keeping with my theme of six (thus half dozen). But this is a list of people who have shown light in the darkness, and they have helped encourage other believers in the faith.
Just for clarity, the list is not a “ranking” of who is the best Difference Maker, but everyone on this list are people who noticeably made a difference in sharing the Gospel this year.
Russell Moore
Russell Moore
My admiration for Russell Moore grew this year. He also has increased his “limelight” status, as he made multiple appearances on news shows to discuss a variety of issues, including religious liberty, marriage, immigration and presidential candidates. As president of the Southern Baptist Convention’s Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) he is a voice of reason, offering a Christian worldview on many troubling issues.
His new book Onward is going to become an excellence reference as Evangelical Christians continue to experience trying times in a changing world.
Franklin Graham
Franklin Graham
Franklin Graham has been established as a leader among Evangelical Christians for quite some time, but in 2015, he seemed to have raised his profile, especially in social media. Early in 2015, his commentary caused Duke University to rethink having a Muslim Call to Prayer. He has been outspoken on biblical marriage, as well as other top issues in our country.
Franklin Graham also had influence in Oklahoma, making two public appearances including the Oklahoma Baptist’s State Evangelism Conference last January and with his Good News Festival at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in August. Though he has made some controversial remarks, regarding Muslims, Graham is one being used of God to further His Kingdom.
Rosaria Butterfield
Rosaria Butterfield
I first heard Rosaria Butterfield speak at the National ERLC Conference in Oct. 2014. She is a stumbling block for those who attempt to justify homosexuality in the Christian faith. She also can make misguided Christians uncomfortable and point out their flawed viewpoints and practices. Most importantly, she is making a difference among those who struggle with same-sex attraction and those who are called to encourage and support those who want to be free from homosexuality.
Well-known Christian blogger Tim Challies said of Butterfield, “There are some stories that just need to be told—some testimonies of the Lord’s grace that are so unusual and so encouraging that they will bless everyone who hears them. This is exactly the case.”
If you have not heard Butterfield speak or have not read her book The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert you should benefit yourself and become familiar with this amazing, graceful woman.
Ronnie Floyd
Ronnie Floyd
Ronnie Floyd is leading the charge to revive the Southern Baptist Convention. He completed his first year as SBC president and made some noticeable changes at the SBC Annual Meeting in Columbus, Ohio that were effective and unifying.
Floyd’s energetic personality and willingness to bring people together from different backgrounds and philosophical stripes among Southern Baptists is making a difference in the largest Christian denomination. This is a long journey but Floyd has increased the speed of the pace.
Kendrick Brothers
Alex and Stephen Kendrick
Christian filmmakers Alex and Stephen Kendrick made great strides in 2015. They have been known for their Faith-based movies such as Facing the Giants, Fireproof and Courageous, but their recent release War Room reached a new level as it became a box-office hit, making more than $11 million on opening weekend. As of early December, War Room has grossed almost $68 million.
Though Kendrick brothers have amazing financial success what is even a greater praise is how they are impacting God’s Kingdom by reaching unbelievers and inspiring Christians to have their own “war room” of spiritual warfare, by increasing focus and time spent in prayer.
James Lankford
James Lankford
Senator James Lankford has been a difference maker on the floor of the U.S. Senate. He was a leader in the cause toward removing federal funding to Planned Parenthood, the largest abortion provider in the world. His work is not finished, but in 2015, he was among a group of government leaders who responded to the awareness that was instigated through hidden videos of the practices done by Planned Parenthood of selling parts of aborted babies.
Lankford was the first to speak in the U.S. Senate about these videos. He reasonably spoke with those on both sides of the aisle about this important issue that reflects Sanctity of Life.
I do not own a gun. Friends will tell you I have questioned the practicality of civilians owning assault weapons.
If I were to rank gun ownership on my list of social issues that concern me, it would not be as high as other issues, with Sanctity of Life being number one and Sanctity of Marriage being number two. Gun ownership may not make the top five.
I address this issue because it has become a hot topic among two Evangelical Christian leaders. Earlier this month, Jerry Falwell, Jr., president of Liberty University, addressed the student body after the killings of 14 people in San Bernardino, Calif. by two radical Muslims. Falwell encouraged students to pursue getting concealed carry licenses and mentioned LU offered a course that would allow attendees to legally obtain such licenses.
What I appreciate about what Piper wrote is that he did have direct contact with Falwell, through email and phone, and discussed respectfully this issue. If you don’t get anything else from reading this blog, please understand the importance of reasoning together as Christian believers.
“I want it to be clear that our disagreement is between Christian brothers who are able to express appreciation for each other’s ministries person to person,” wrote Piper. Because he wrote this, Piper still has my respect and also for making the effort to discuss this matter with Falwell.
Before I express my concerns about what Piper wrote, let me also clarify that I do not wholeheartedly agree with Falwell’s presentation. Some have said he lacked some prudence in how he encouraged students, especially in such a public arena. Encouraging with such boldness to pursue concealed carry licensing allows himself to be misunderstood. As a friend told me, this action by a college president is “unbecoming.”
However, I have a bigger issue with Piper. After reading his article, I found him to be veering way too close to being a pacifist.
Early in his piece he wrote, “The issue is not primarily about when and if a Christian may ever use force in self-defense, or the defense of one’s family or friends.”
Then, he wrote a statement that implies he is not sure he would defend his wife if she were attacked by an assailant. “I do not know what I would do before this situation presents itself with all its innumerable variations of factors,” he wrote.
Piper did say he “would be very slow to condemn someone who chose differently from me.” Though I appreciate his reservation to condemn, my perplexity would be on why he would not confidently say he would do everything within his ability to prevent someone from attacking his wife. And if he has hesitancy to protect his wife, what does this say about him if he were in the position to protect a stranger who was attacked?
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her” (Eph. 5:25). Christ giving Himself for the Church is the example husbands are to follow. Protection would be an easy understanding to gain from this passionate effort husbands are to demonstrate in loving their wives.
Piper also wrote, “Our primary aim in life is to show that Christ is more precious than life. So when presented with this threat to my wife or daughter or friend, my heart should incline toward doing good in a way that would accomplish this great aim. There are hundreds of variables in every crisis that might affect how that happens.”
In a recent edition of my weekly column “Doyle’s Half Dozen,” I said that I am willing to give myself but not willing to give others. Yes, Christ is more precious than life, but this would be applied to how we view OUR life, not the lives of others. I challenge Dr. Piper to find a passage in the Bible that states Christians are to sacrifice other people’s lives, especially the lives of spouses, children and friends.
Piper also questions the instructions of Christ regarding possessing weapons (Luke 22:36). All through his commentary he makes it sound as though his opponents believe Christ is telling them to “be an armed band of preachers ready to use violence to defend themselves from persecution.”
There are Christians who hold a more militant or cowboy philosophy than I do when it comes to weaponry. Perhaps such Christians could learn from Piper’s viewpoint. However, Piper clearly is addressing the issue of vengeance while appearing to disregard a person’s right to protect themselves from harm.
And I detect some ambiguity in this response to those who cite Luke 22:36 for having weapons: “If that is the correct interpretation of this text, my question is, ‘Why did none of (Christ’s) disciples in the New Testament ever do that — or commend that?’”
How does Piper know that none of the early Christians possessed weapons? None of the New Testament writers clarify one way or the other.
What we do know is the New Testament does teach Christians to be reasonable and sensible. We know that Paul did run away from situations that would harm himself, such as when he was lowered down in a basket from the wall of Damascus (Acts 9:25). We also know that Paul instructed Timothy to take care of himself when he was sick (I Tim. 5:23).
So if Piper uses the perspective that Christ is more precious than life to argue not defending ourselves, why would New Testament teachings instruct us to avoid those who would kill us as well as treat ourselves if we are sick? The question is silly but so is Piper’s view of passivity, especially when it comes to protecting the lives of others.
In closing, I want to stress the importance of sensibility, especially when it comes to protecting others. I do believe it is appropriate for Christians to have concealed carry licenses but with proper training and understanding of when guns can be used appropriately.
Consider this. When Falwell made his speech, he pointed out that he did have a gun in his back pocket. Something that is overlooked is the fact he did ask if it were appropriate for him to show it. To me, that is a sign of sensibility. He could’ve just pulled out the gun and acted like Yosemite Sam.
Be aware. These are fearful times in our country. But even in times of fear, we can still be sensible.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness but one of power, love and sound judgement” (II Tim. 1:7).
This is the 2015 Christmas version of Doyle’s Half Dozen. I don’t know if I will be required to do a DHD next week, but if I have to pull a Bob Cratchit, I’ll figure something out.
Here are some of my favorite Christmas-themed topics.
Linus’ Legendary Lecture
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” television special just celebrated 50 years this month. Love this show. It’s definitely a Christmas tradition, and not only do I love how this priceless Peanuts piece stirs fond childhood memories, this animated feature goes against modern-day culture.
A friend shared a link to an article by Jason Soroski titled “Just Drop the Blanket: The Moment You Never Noticed in A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Soroski’s opening already sold me when he said he was a fan of all things nostalgic and all things Christmas – “and so when the two are combined I am hooked, and the Charlie Brown Christmas special falls squarely into that category,” Soroski wrote.
But then Soroski enlightens readers on a quick motion that Linus does when he recites the Christmas Story, according to Luke 2. Click on the link above and enjoy this observation.
From the moment I hear Linus say “Lights please” I begin to tear up. And knowing Linus is speaking the Word of God, telling about God Incarnate coming to Earth in the form of a baby born of a virgin on national television, I believe every Christian should capture this tiny element of latitude for sharing the Gospel in a public showcase and rejoice with exceeding great joy.
God and sinners reconciled
I share this every year, but it most definitely doesn’t get old.
Think about a time when you had a falling out with somebody. Perhaps it was with a family member or a close friend. It hindered your relationship. But then a moment happened when you made things right again with this person. Can you relate to this feeling? It’s like a major heavy burden had been lifted. The anger and bitterness were gone, and you were experiencing true joy because the relationship had been restored.
Now take that feeling of joy and multiply it times infinity. That, my friend, is what you should be feeling when you realize what God has done, which began through the birth of Jesus Christ. How do I know this? Because people around the world sing about it every year at Christmas time.
Hark the Herald Angels Sing
Glory to the Newborn King
Peace on Earth and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled
There can be no greater feeling, knowing that our relationship with God the Father has been reconciled. We are no longer separated because Jesus came into this world to pay the penalty once and for all.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away, and look, new things have come. Everything is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation” (II Cor. 5:17-18, HCSB).
“God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman” sung by an interesting group
I love Christmas music. It’s priceless. It’s the only kind of music that can be written centuries ago and be played during this time of year on pop music stations today .
And not only is Christmas music priceless, the lyrics reflect the Gospel message. And not only do the lyrics of Christmas music reflect the Gospel, these same lyrics are sung by many secular artists and heard by many people who wouldn’t even grace the steps of a church building.
One of the most fascinating examples, for me, is when I hear the group Barenaked Ladies sing “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.” There’s just something significant about the group that sings the theme song to the show “The Big Bang Theory” also singing about Christ our Savior coming “to save us all from Satan’s power when we were gone astray.”
Watch and enjoy!
Andy Griffith sings “Away in a Manger”
“The Andy Griffith Show” is also priceless. I could watch episodes of Andy and Barney over and over. I especially appreciate the early ones with Ellie the pharmacist who was a brief love interest for Andy. If you haven’t seen the Christmas episode where Andy and Ellie sing “Away in a Manger,” watch below. This is a great rendition.
“If the Lord (not fates) allows”
I remember hearing Twyla Paris perform in a Christmas concert with other Christian artists. One song she chose to sing was “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” The very popular seasonal piece has been said to be “the third-most performed Christmas song.”
There is a lot of history involved with this song, and even some debate. The song was introduced in the movie Meet Me in St Louis and was sung by Judy Garland.
But one of the elements of the song that intrigues me is the part that follows “Through the years we all will be together…” Paris pointed out this significance of the lyrics during the concert. She said she felt convicted to sing “if the Lord allows” instead of “if the fates allow.” So Paris shared that she contacted the songwriter to ask for his permission to acknowledge the Lord when she sang the song.
Come to find out, the songwriter originally wrote “if the Lord allows,” but had to change the wording. May we all come to understand the significance of God’s sovereignty (James 4:14-16) on our lives, even in the singing of a simple phrase.
Star Wars Returns
My last DHD topic isn’t Christmas related, but it’s about the most popular movie right now, that premiers a week before Christmas.
I plan to see Star Wars: The Force Awakens, possibly this weekend, as I know multitudes of people plan to do.
I ran across an article while viewing the one on Linus in “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Titled “Five Christian Messages Found in Star Wars,” the writer gives some interesting aspects, but some cause me to be a bit leery.
I can agree with the writer on his points about unlikely settings and people who are used of God to reveal His glory, as well as his point on falling and redemption. I’m not so sure about his point of being a part of “something bigger.” It seems to lean toward New Age thinking. I welcome your feedback.
Thank you for reading Doyle’s Half Dozen this year. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
