What brings you joy? There is no doubt that we are creatures of desire—we want things. Whether it is greater economic stability, the desire for deeper friendships, less loneliness, we all want something. Perhaps, in light of Ephesians 6, you want children who are more attentive to your words. Perhaps you want some time to simply get away from the rush of life. Regardless, we … [Read more...]
Children, Obey Your Parents (Ephesians 6:1–4)
If you frequent the news media, the name Charlie Gard is probably familiar to you. This baby boy was born on 4 August 2016 and, by all appearances, was healthy. A couple of months later, severe health issues became evident and Charlie was diagnosed with mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome, a rare inherited condition that causes muscle weakness and loss of motor skills. … [Read more...]
The Need for Nerds
The title of this article might lead you to think that I am about to provide some autobiographical insights. In a sense, I hope that is true. If I am correct that the world needs a certain kind of nerd, then I want to be one. And I want you to be one. At the risk of sounding like a disgruntled and out-of-touch old man, I have to say it: I wonder if there has ever been an era … [Read more...]
Don’t Waste Your Life (Ephesians 5:18)
In our previous study of Ephesians, we examined quite deliberately the opening half of this verse. Though not being drunk with wine is not the main point of the passage, nevertheless, understanding this exhortation is paramount if we will understand the importance of the second half of the verse and all that follows. In essence, what Paul is saying is that, now that we are … [Read more...]
Good News!
What a week it’s been! Since last Thursday’s “night of the long knives,” South Africa has been battered on the financial markets, downgraded to junk status by one financial institution, moved to a vote of no confidence concerning our State President, called upon to sign petitions for the removal of the President, and exhorted to wear black as a sign of mourning. As I write, … [Read more...]