Incoherent Ramblings of an Insane Pastor

1 Peter 1:15 “In the world and not of it” is a mantra constructed from several scriptures. The original meaning was that we must live in the world, but not be corrupted by it. But separation became the emphasis. Stay away from “the world” so you won’t be corrupted. It is interesting that while quoting this mantra ad infinitum, the church has become more of the world and not in it. It is much easier to tell others how messed up they are, while hiding the places where you fall short. Emphasis on separation allows someone to look and act holy. Rules of outward conformity have piled up pushing the church farther and farther from the community that they are supposed to love. Love becomes conditional, “We’ll let you in, if you agree look and act like us.” Religious condemnation is the result. Society feels that the church is condemning them. And much like the pharisaical law of Jesus day, even people in the church feel condemned because the standard has become impossible to live. True Chris...

A few years ago, I designed a T-shirt for a children's ministry at a traditional church where I worked. Even though the idea wasn't original, the design was and I thought it was hilarious. It had the reference, Ephesians 6:10-20 , a cartoon of a gladiator and the caption, "Don't Fight Naked." Apparently the church was more conservative than I thought. I showed the design to a few people and immediately began receiving phone calls. Apparently the word "Naked" is offensive to some people. Who knew? The armor of God is a great visual. Everybody has visions of Russell Crowe fighting gladiators and becoming a Roman hero. I remember the scene where he gets new armor from his owner. It would help him in his fights ahead. Even if you are perfectly equipped with salvation, righteousness, truth, God's Word, faith, and a message there is still more to gain if you follow the analogy of a Roman Soldier. The Roman soldier had nothing to protect his back. OK, this ...