The Parrhesians
The Church
Essays on the life, worship, leadership, and mission of the local church.
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No Neutral Ground
The church has a vital role in shaping public life, advocating for moral authority and addressing the public square to counterbalance secularism and pluralism. Emphasizing its responsibility to proclaim the gospel, the…
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Scars
The post reflects on the wisdom of accepting departures in church communities, as described in a mentor’s letter. It highlights how separation can leave scars but also offers lessons for growth. Drawing…
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Mud and Blood and Ordination
The Call to Ponying Up of One’s Life This coming Sunday, I’ll be installed as a Ruling Elder at my church. At the end of this month, I’ll be taking ordination exams.…
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The Rise of Safetyism in the Church
The Idol of Safe Worship The writer of the book of Hebrews is quite explicit about the dangers of worship, when he said, “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom…
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The System Is Perfectly Designed
How Did We Get Here The modern evangelical church is an egalitarian church, which means that it is a feminized and effeminate church. Many celebrate this as progress against an outdated, regressive,…
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Cracks in the Hull
In February 2004, I left the charismatic church for the evangelical church. I was finishing seminary when my wife and I, along with our one-month-old daughter, started attending Beverly Heights Presbyterian Church.…
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Four Convictions
Four Convictions about the Church I was back in the church, but I was not yet reconciled to the church. Obedience was important, but I still needed to come to terms with…
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Outside of the Church
I left the church at age sixteen, but I still loved Jesus and wanted to be his disciple. I still read my Bible. I still attended youth group with friends on Sunday…
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A Church Without Spot or Wrinkle?
Thoughts on growing up in the church…and then leaving it. My father grew up in the Catholic church, but he never heard the gospel. In addition, his parents were alcoholics, and his…