Fighting Against the System

The creative power of humans is astonishing. I’m not referring to creativity in the artistic sense, but rather in the sense of our ability to create spiritual entities that wield a tremendous amount of influence over human actions. We refer to these entities as Institutions. Now I’m not suggesting that in creating institutions we create …

The Problem With Certainty

When an ideology does not permit opposing viewpoints, the resulting behavior often turns bitter, resentful—even violent.

A Shaky Foundation

When we support assertions with other assertions, the only people who will accept what we have to say are those who already agree with us, and simpletons who can’t be bothered with applying any intellectual rigor to what we are saying.

Do You Believe in Faith?

Faith may be one of the most misunderstood and abused concepts in western Christianity.  In general, Christians have reduced faith to a prescribed, academic understanding of theology.

We have to believe something or we would become paralyzed.  We all have gaps in our knowledge, and we fill in those gaps with beliefs so we can function in this world. So what is faith, and how much trust should we put in our faith?

Extreme and Reactionary

Extreme and reactionary.  Not a good mix.  There is a  time and place for both individually, but typically not for both together.  For instance, there may be a time when things are so bad that a radical course correction is needed—something relatively extreme.  There may also be a time to be reactionary—to make a hasty …

The Intersection of Faith and Reason

As a seeker of truth, I require evidence that something is true before I will believe it.  Many Christians who feel compelled to make the rest of the world believe exactly as they do—typically the ones who have no evidence to substantiate their beliefs—bristle at this and accuse me of trusting my intellect over God’s revelation.

The Problem With Apologetics

Many Christians lean on apologists to validate their faith, which is a backward approach to developing a system of belief.

The Transcendent Significance of Human Sexuality

A weirdly self-contradicting fallacy which our culture clutches like a drunk clutches a half-empty bottle of booze is that sexual identity is paramount, yet sexual activity is itself, insignificant.  The popular narrative offers confusing justification for pursuing uninhibited sexuality:  “It’s just entertainment—so it’s ok.”  “You are defined by your chosen sexual identity—so it’s ok.”   …

A Distorted Concept of Prayer

“Daddy, I just want to tell you what a great daddy you are!  You are just so special!  I love you so much.” “Thank you.  That’s very kind of you to say.  I love you, too.” “I’m sorry I didn’t clean my room this morning.  I’ll do it tomorrow for sure.” “Ok.  Please don’t forget.” …

Religion is a Cruel Master

Several conversations I’ve had recently have reminded me what a cruel master religion is.  When discussing theological issues with religious folks, rather than having an open dialogue with an intent to learn, the conversation invariably devolves to a repetition of “Well, we believe…” or “My denomination teaches…” or the ever-popular “Well The Bible says…” or …