All Columnists articles – Page 2
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ColumnistsDoes the Bible treat women unfairly?
Around the world, women continue to bear the brunt of laws punishing sexual misconduct. But does scripture really endorse such inequality? Elaine Storkey examines the passages at the heart of the debate
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ColumnistsWhen God's laws seem to conflict with God's love, choose love
Are there occasions when God wants us to break His law? Yes, says David Instone-Brewer. Here, he explains why
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ColumnistsEverything belongs to God – not just the ‘Christian’ bits
Veronica Zundel says it’s time to ditch the sacred vs secular divide
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ColumnistsThe secret to contentment in a culture of more
We are conditioned to constantly pursue the next thing. But if we take time to slow down, there is great joy to be found in what we already have, says Gemma Hunt
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ColumnistsIn a world obsessed with makeovers, Christ offers true transformation
From weight-loss journeys to home renovations, the world loves a story of a life transformed. But none compare to what Jesus can do, says Chine McDonald
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ColumnistsThe Passion Translation is under scrutiny. As a Bible translator, here’s my view on the controversy
The Passion Translation (TPT) has enjoyed significant popularity in charismatic and Pentecostal circles. But in recent weeks a number of influential pastors and churches have been quietly distancing themselves from the project, citing alledged plagiarism and disputed translation methodology. Rev Dr David Instone-Brewer, who sits on the NIV translation committee, takes a look at the issues and shares his own perspective
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ColumnistsWhat my worst pastoral blunders taught me
From awkward hospital visits to forgotten names and embarrassing assumptions, Jeff Lucas reflects on his most face-palm-inducing pastoral moments
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ColumnistsThe Christian answer to our identity crisis
Society is waking up to the fact that Christianity offers a more compelling answer to life’s biggest questions than self-optimisation and autonomy, says Chine McDonald
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ColumnistsThe surprising power of blessing
When a spiritual director told Dr Chloe Lynch to spend five minutes each day blessing the man who had deeply hurt her, it felt almost impossible. Yet the practice opened up a profound biblical truth
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ColumnistsI’m a Christian. But I still don’t want to die…
Christians speak confidently about eternal hope and the defeat of death. But what if, despite believing in heaven, you still fear dying? Jeff Lucas reflects on grief, awkward Christian clichés and why trusting Jesus doesn’t always remove our dread of the final journey
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ColumnistsAre Christians afraid of nationalism…or just the working class?
Chine McDonald ponders whether Christians are really reacting to dangerous ideas — or merely to the discomfort of sharing church with people from different classes and cultural backgrounds
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ColumnistsShould Christians pray to the Holy Spirit?
Tom Wright gives his response to a reader’s question
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ColumnistsGod doesn't stop teaching us just because we grow up
Gemma Hunt’s formative years in Sunday school gave her a spiritual foundation she will always be grateful for. But now she’s learning to ask questions again, and is unafraid to admit she does not always have all the answers
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ColumnistsHow we tackled McLeadership in our church
A culture obsessed with measuring success has infiltrated the Church, warns Dr Chloe Lynch. She’s calling leaders to embrace love, vulnerability and shared power over efficiency and what can be counted
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ColumnistsHow to follow Jesus during a rage epidemic
Anger is seeping into everyday life, observes Jeff Lucas. As tempers shorten and tensions rise, even in the most ordinary moments, how do we recognise what’s happening within us – and learn to respond differently?
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ColumnistsHow I'm learning to be still
When we let go of the expectations we place on ourselves to be all things to all people, we find God is waiting for us to show up just as we are, says Gemma Hunt
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ColumnistsWhy I'm cautiously welcoming the Christian comeback
Society’s perception of Christianity has undergone a dramatic change for good over the past 20 years. But there are risks that accompany the vibe shift, says Chine McDonald
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ColumnistsThe Americans believe God is on their side. Here’s what the Bible really teaches
With US political and religious leaders suggesting God is on their side in the war against Iran, Dr David Instone-Brewer takes a closer look at the violent references in the Psalms and comes to a surprising conclusion. God is not automatically on the side of those who worship Him
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ColumnistsI disagree with my church’s teaching on women in ministry. Should I leave?
The New Testament suggests Christians can differ on significant matters yet remain in fellowship, says Tom Wright
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ColumnistsJeff Lucas: God is a party planner – and Spring Harvest proves it
For decades, Jeff Lucas has seen lives changed at Christian festivals. As Spring Harvest returns, he reflects on why gathering together still matters – and how these moments help us remember, rejoice and reconnect with God
