Paul tells us that if we are led by the Spirit, we are not subject to the law because against the fruits of the Spirit, there is no law. Except, there is.
This sermon using Paul's letter to the Galatians 5: 1, 12-25 was delivered at Grace Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia on 30 June 2019.
I have found myself wondering repeatedly this year: how many times can your heart be broken before it becomes irreparable?
Wearing a safety pin is a marker so that we (people who don't want to be known as racist or homophobic) know each other. It is a political statement. It is NOT a clandestine signal to an underground railroad.
Here’s the thing: we can’t go around building bridges without foundations if we expect them to last any longer than the next storm. The systems upon which many bridges were built are rotten and need to be replaced.
Public theology understands and accepts that 1) we live in a diverse, multi-faith society and 2) there are many people who are wary of religion. The most constructive thing we can do is to make sure our theology supports the common good.
Here’s what we don’t often say when we talk about hospitality: real hospitality has a cost. You simply cannot offer true welcome and not expect change to come as a result. The change may come to you and your ideas, to your community's identity, or to the physical space you inhabit. But change will come.
Every generation says this, but we are all aware of how much work there is to do these days. Life is very difficult for a number of people and those who have the ability to pick up a teaspoon are called by God to do so. "To whom much is given, much is required," said Jesus in Luke 12:48.
For those for whom purity is of concern, then the “messiness” or untidiness of life experiences, particularly where otherness is concerned, becomes a constant struggle...But when we take up opportunities to get our hands dirty on behalf of others (not for your own gain, mind...), it is a powerful, liberative, dangerous thing.
I couldn’t deny it any longer. My life had led me to this; I have spent years studying and preparing and I feel I have been brought along this road by God. To pretend it wasn’t a part of me was to deny all these years up to this point.
