The 3 - August 5, 2012

This week, as I write this week-in-review feature, I am saddened by the reports out of Wisconsin concerning the incident at a Sikh temple, where at least 7 are dead, including a man who reportedly entered the house of worship and opened fire.  It is concerning that in a nation where we are free to worship and very rarely think about security in our sanctuaries, that you have someone that brings fear and death into a church building.   My top 3 stories form the previous week include the severing of a years-long financial relationship between a group supporting, even promoting, contraception outside of marriage and a group claiming to represent evangelical Christians.  Also, a Congressional vote this week indicated where a number of lawmakers stand regarding abortion and protecting life.   And, the top story - the record-setting turnout at Chick-Fil-A restaurants across America to show appreciation for their Biblical values and their president's support of traditional marriage.

3 - NAE announces no more plans to receive dollars from organization promoting contraception

The National Association of Evangelicals has been in spotlight recently as the result of a $1 million dollar grant that it received from the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy.    Marvin Olasky, Editor-in-Chief of WORLD Magazine, has been involved in asking some pointed questions about why the organization, which represents some 40 Christian denominations, has received money from an organization that supports contraception for unmarried people.

The NAE, in its response to some of the questions asked by Olasky, appeared to be conflicted, saying that it opposes abortion, but must address some of the realities of sex outside of marriage, and therefore must consider advising unmarried people who insist on engaging in this type of behavior to use contraception.
In a response to WORLD's reporting, the NAE issued a statement, which includes these sentences:

Evangelicals are conflicted about contraceptives outside of marriage because we never want to promote or condone sexual immorality. But we are told that contraceptives can reduce abortions and we want to stop abortions.

But, as Olasky heard from various WORLD readers, there are better ways to address the issue of pregnancy outside of marriage than promoting contraception, which, in the eyes of many, promises what seems to be, but really is not, consequence-free sexual behavior.   Abstinence outside of marriage and fidelity inside marriage are components of God's best way regarding sexuality, and to deviate from that path is to invite a host of emotional, spiritual, and even physical consequences.   And, there is research that shows that contraception is not a completely reliable method of preventing pregnancy. 

So, the point is well-taken - should a Christian organization that claims to represent a number of Christian denominations receive funding from a group that holds to an agenda that encourages behavior that is incompatible with Christian teaching?    Well, the NAE has backed off, apparently, and decided not to apply for a similar grant in the future from the NCPTUP.     Here is a conversation from The Meeting House with Marvin Olasky of WORLD:

So, what does the NAE believe?   Sometimes it is really unclear, because the Association has taken positions that are questionable in light of Biblical teaching.   And, a study released this week seems to cloud the issue about members' perspective about whether or not America is a "Christian" nation.  The study, released as part of the 2012 Evangelical Leaders Survey, shows that about 68 percent of those surveyed agreed America is not Christian while 32 said it is.  Those on both sides agreed that America is a missions field.

Of the 32 percent who said the United States is a Christian nation, most indicated that they did so because America was founded with Christian principles or because there are more Christians here than other religions.

Here are some comments from the President of the Institute on Religion and Democracy Mark Tooley:

"Presumably the NAE poll made no effort to define what a 'Christian' nation is. Is it defined theocratically by law? Is it simply demographic? Or does it describe the sum total of culture, habits, history and attitude of a people?

"Evangelical and other church leaders of 50 or 100 years ago probably would have said America was both Christian and a missions field. But for many today, one seems to preclude the other.

"There is also some confusion over what a 'Christian' nation is, with some evangelical leaders seemingly persuaded by secularists that it can only mean a coercive theocracy.

"There is a persistent disposition of many cultural elites to ignore the large majorities of Americans who consistently profess to be religious and Christian.

"With about 75 - 80 percent of Americans saying they're Christian, America is about as demographically Christian as India is Hindu or Israel is Jewish. Even today only about 4 percent of Americans specifically identify with non-Christian religions."

While we agree that America was founded on Judeo-Christian principles, many believe that to describe the U.S. as a "Christian" nation implies that we would support some sort of theocracy which excludes people of other faiths.   There is certainly some confusion, as Tooley insists, and surveys such as this can cloud the issue of what evangelical Christians really believe.   I think it's important that we are educated on the roots of our nation and recognize that religious freedom is a key, foundational component - embracing principles consistent with Scripture, which make for an orderly, well-functioning society and a citizenry possessing good moral character, and rejecting hostility toward any religion. 


2 - Congress holds vote on pro-life bill, but fails to get the necessary 2/3 of the House

One of the encouraging trends on the legislative front regarding the protection of pre-born human life is the passage of bills in various states that would outlaw abortion after the 20th week of gestation, which research shows is the point of development at which an unborn child feels pain.  Based on science, lawmakers across the country have drafted and passed legislation in a number of states.   One of those is Arizona, where a lawsuit had been filed to challenge the constitutionality of its law.   Late last week, a Federal judge had refused to strike down the law, but as the new week arrive, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals had indeed intervened and ruled the law unconstitutional.

On the Congressional front, the U.S. House of Representatives took up the issue this week.    A vote was taken on the D.C. Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, which would ban abortions in the nation's capital after the 20th week of pregnancy.    And, Representatives voted 220-154 in favor of the bill.  However, because the bill was brought up under a special calendar requiring a two-thirds vote for passage, the measure failed. 

The Susan B. Anthony List, a pro-life advocacy organization, supports the legislation, and cited a
recent poll commissioned by the National Right to Life Committee, which found that 63 percent of Americans, and 70 percent of women, support legislation to ban abortions past the point at which unborn children feel pain.  The NRLC poll also found that American women, by an overwhelming majority of 62-27 percent, would be more likely to vote for lawmakers who support this bill.

Marjorie Dannenfelser, President of the SBA List, reminded people that "154 members of Congress endorsed an absolutist policy of abortion on-demand, for any reason, up to the moment of birth..."   With the heavy influence of the abortion industry on lawmakers, common-sense legislation that bans certain types or categories of abortion, or proposed bills that provide greater information for women, including the ultrasound access or even requirements, are facing sizable hurdles on the state, as well as the national, level.   But, a number of state legislatures are continuing to pass these incremental measures that save the lives of pre-born children.

Here is a conversation from "The Meeting House" radio program with SBA List Vice-President of Governmental Affairs Marilyn Musgrave, with information on instances involving the life issue from the previous week:

1 - "Chick-Fil-A" Appreciation Day sets world record

The company is saying that it was the biggest sales day ever in the history of Chick-Fil-A - not a surprise, considering over 600,000 had indicated on Facebook that they would respond on Wednesday, August 1st to former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee's call for people to go to their local restaurant and show support for the company president's views on traditional marriage, as well as his right to freely state his views, without the fear of reprisals.   CitizenLink had this report on the day's activities.

This was an event that was not a protest, rather a show of affirmation for a company that embraces Christian values.   And, there's a telling aspect of this entire saga - up until a few weeks ago, the President of the United States said he believed in that definition of marriage, too, but he received a pass from the gay activist community.  You also have to consider: If Dan Cathy had been a member of another faith or no faith at all, would there have been such an outcry?   It does seem, and analysts have pointed out, that Cathy and the company have been singled out because their beliefs on marriage are consistent with the Bible and the Christian faith.   So, while many showed up to support Cathy's views on marriage, as well as his rights to free speech, the company received overwhelming appreciation, I believe, from Christians - from people of faith who may have reached a tipping point regarding the intrusion into religious liberties that they have experienced and have said collectively, "enough".

And, the media played its part, I believe in fanning the flames of mischaracterization of the Wednesday event, as well as the scheduled "Same Sex Kiss-In" at Chick-Fil-A's, where handfuls of protestors showed up at some locations, and a few even got in front of a camera.    At one Chick-Fil-A, the police had to be called out because the number of media representatives gathered (presumably looking for a story that wasn't there) were inhibiting the flow of traffic.    And, there were a couple of instances of vandalism associated with those opposed to Cathy's stance.

As Christians, we will be misunderstood as we stand for truth.  Our challenge is to communicate the message of truth in a loving manner, not to appear militant, and to even reach out to those who embrace points of view other than ours on the topic of homosexuality - and other areas - so that they will see our "good works" and glorify our Father in heaven.

The 3 - July 29, 2012

What a strangely active and even unnerving week it has been...welcome to my week-in-review feature, "The 3".  And, the top story that is on the minds of so many believers this week concerns the vocal group of gay activists and their supporters that is taking Chick-Fil-A to task because of the pro-traditional marriage viewpoint of its leader, as well as the hundreds of thousands who have committed to eat at the restaurant this Wednesday.  The Olympics are getting quite a lot of attention, too, and Christian athletes are testifying to the presence of Christ in their lives, and ministries are getting involved in sharing His message of love and hope.   Also, we continue to see tax dollars going to an organization that specializes in abortion - we'll take a look at the state of North Carolina.

3 - Planned Parenthood receives Federal funds in N.C. after state pulls funds


Planned Parenthood is the nation's largest abortion provider, and according to the Susan B. Anthony List, a pro-life advocacy organization, it ended the lives of over 329,000 pre-born children in the year 2010 alone.   Sure, Planned Parenthood provides other services to women, but so do a number of other facilities, without performing abortions. 

So, the North Carolina legislature was wise when earlier this month, it directed some $343,000 in family planning funding away from Planned Parenthood to county health departments that provide comprehensive care.  Well, enter the Obama Administration, which awarded $426,000 in Federal grants to Planned Parenthood affiliates across the Tar Heel state.  

Marjorie Dannenfelser, President of the SBA List, said: “President Obama’s decision to overrule the North Carolina legislature today marks the third time this month – and the fifth time in the last year – that he has stepped in to contract directly with the nation’s largest abortion provider."

Here's the story from an SBA List press release.

The narrative to which Marjorie was referring really begins over a year ago in Indiana, when the Administration threatened to pull $4.3 billion in Medicaid funding from the state after the legislature voted to defund Planned Parenthood. Then we have these instances from other states:

• New Hampshire: The Obama Administration contracted directly with Planned Parenthood after the state’s elected Executive Council voted to defund Planned Parenthood. (September 2011)
• Texas: The Obama Administration pulled $30 million in Medicaid waiver funds from Texas after the state legislature voted to defund Planned Parenthood from the waiver program. (March 2012)
• Tennessee: The Obama Administration bypassed elected officials in Tennessee and contracted directly with Planned Parenthood after they were defunded by the state. (July 2012)
• New Jersey: The Obama Administration awarded $3.1 million in federal funds to Planned Parenthood affiliates and other family planning groups in New Jersey, bypassing New Jersey Governor Chris Christie’s veto of state funding. (July 2012)

When you use the phrase "federal funds", you are referring to taxpayer dollars.   State legislatures are deciding that they do not want to put their citizen's tax dollars into the abortion industry, but the Federal government is not acting consistent with the wishes of these state lawmakers.   This action in North Carolina is just another instance of the pro-abortion agenda that is held by the current Administration.

Another example of this agenda is the mandate that religious employers provide free contraception and abortion-inducing drugs through their health plans, and this week, there was a small victory on that front, according to CitizenLink.   A federal court ordered an injunction Friday halting the implementation of a mandate that would require a Catholic-owned business in Denver to offer insurance coverage for contraception and potential abortion-inducing drugs as a federal court case proceeds.


2 - Olympics open in London, athletes seek to please God, ministries swing into action

In the wake of the spectacular opening ceremonies that were highly-viewed on NBC television, the business of winning medals and athletes representing their home countries well has commenced in earnest, and their are two major ways that the faith element is present within these Olympic games.

The first involves the athletes themselves.   Christian athletes have been identified and profiled in the days and months leading up to the games, and now that they are in the spotlight, they have the opportunity to testify to the God Whom they are trying to please, the One who has given them the gifts and abilities to compete on the highest level. 


The Christian Post has listed 10 Christian Athletes To Watch in the Olympic Games. who are representing Team USA.  They are:
1 - Kevin Durant, Basketball
2 - Charlie Houchin, Swimming
3 - Amy Rodriguez, Soccer
4 - Sanya Richards, Track & Field
5 - Jonathan Horton, Gymnastics
6 - Kendrick J. Farris, Weightlifting
7 - Arielle Martin, BMX Cyclist
8 - Jennifer Nichols, Archery
9 - Jared Frayer, Wrestling
10 - Brittany Viola, Diving

But there are quite a few other believers who are competing, as well.   Another Christian Post piece shared the faith statements of athletes such as:

• Track and field star Lolo Jones, who has attracted attention because of her decision to remain abstinent until marriage, said in a Tweet:  "As I arrive in London for the Olympics, I'm overwhelmed with emotions. Thank you Lord for another chance and for holding me as I waited."  She has also corrected fans who think her motivation in competing is simply to win a medal.  "Sadly ppl think they prayed 4me to win Olympics & getting tons of rude tweets. Same prayer as last Olympics: to be an inspiration & honor God," Jones has shared, adding: "I never have prayed to win a gold medal at Olympics and never will. The Lord is my Shepard and I shall not want. May His will be done."

Other spotlighted athletes include:

• Allyson Felix, also a track and field competitor, who said on Twitter, "It's official...I'm going to London!! All glory to God! I'm so thankful for the love, support & encouragement."

• Archer Brady Ellison, who has consistently given God the glory for helping him in his journey to the Olympics.  He tweeted Friday ahead of the opening ceremony: "Here we go four years of sweat and blood and hard work to prepare for today. Thank you Lord for lettin me [be] here this week. Lets do it."

• Marathon runner Ryan Hall caught the public's attention when he told the New York Times that he has long considered God as his coach. He shared with curious fans ahead of the Olympics how he starts out his days. "I like to start off every morning by asking God how He sees me," he tweeted.

• Another track and field star, Bryan Clay, has also let fans know where his priorities lie, although he failed to qualify this year for the decathlon competition during the 2012 Summer Games, tweeting in May: "God first. Family second. Track third."  Clay received the 2012 Eric Liddell Award for outstanding "character at home, in the community and on and off the field of competition."

• Soccer champ Lauren Cheney revealed the perspective she holds as she prepares to compete in London, tweeting this week: "We weren't given these talents to be mediocre. Our God is great – He deserves greatness." Her bio on Twitter refers to 2 Chronicles 16:9, which includes the passage: "For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him."

Another faith aspect of the Olympics is the number of ministry organizations who are involved in efforts to share the gospel in London.   While Athletes in Action has a significant outreach to those who are competing, there are numerous outreaches that have been organized in order to reach out to those attending.

 

1 - Chick-Fil-A chief affirms marriage, gay rights advocates protest

It's been quite a week for the Chick-Fil-A corporation.   The week began amid emerging reports of company President and CEO Dan Cathy's comments affirming the traditional, Biblical view of marriage.   He had made the comments to a Christian publication, The Biblical Recorder, and then the media went back and found Dan's comments on a radio show that airs once a week on a radio station in Gainesville, GA that is broadcast on the Internet.   On the Ken Coleman Show, Cathy said that: 

"As it relates to society in general, I think we are inviting God's judgment on our nation when we shake our fist at Him and say, 'We know better than You as to what constitutes a marriage...I pray God's mercy on our generation that has such a prideful, arrogant attitude to think that we would have the audacity to try to redefine what marriage is all about."

And, that is Dan Cathy's Biblically-informed opinion.   He has a right to it.  And, it is not unexpected from the Cathy family - their business, and their lives, have been heavily influenced by the Bible.

I believe that one reason that Chick-Fil-A has been enormously successful is that it has been founded on Christian principles.  Their being closed on Sunday reflects their commitment to Christ.  The way they treat their customers reflects an unusual devotion to going the extra mile, which is a principle taught by Jesus Himself.  And, as they stated on their Facebook page, the company has said, "going forward, our intent is to leave the policy debate over same-sex marriage to the government and political arena".  They desire to "treat every person with honor, dignity and respect -- regardless of their belief, race, creed, sexual orientation or gender."

Isn't that the way we as Christians are to conduct our lives?  I like what the owner of a new Chick-Fil-A franchise that had its grand opening this week said, according to the Los Angeles Times:  He plans on "treating everybody with honor, dignity and respect. ... We just want to serve everybody in Laguna Hills."

There were some protestors that showed up at the grand opening, and the restaurant had to change up its tradition of offering free food to customers who generally come and camp out prior to the opening of a new location.

By the end of the week, former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee's call for positive reinforcement for Chick-Fil-A, scheduled for this Wednesday, had resulted in now over 400,000 people pledging on Facebook to attend.   The mayors of Boston and Chicago have apparently walked back their threats to keep Chick-Fil-A out of the city and the mayor of New York had warned his fellow mayors not to try to restrict business because of the views of their corporate leadership, a position shared by the ACLU.    Unfortunately, in the midst of it all, long-time company spokesman Don Perry died of a heart attack on Friday - whether or not it is related to the media firestorm will perhaps never be clear, but Chick-Fil-A has had the gargantuan task of communicating a clear, consistent corporate message, and I believe it has responded to the protests in a positive, appropriate manner.  

We see corporate leaders express opinions all the time, and while people will have honest disagreements about a variety of issues, it is quite offensive to be subjected to name-calling and threats just because you express an opinion that differs from that of someone else.   Now, we do have to be careful as believers not to respond in kind to those who would attempt to villify us.  We must speak up, I believe, on relevant issues of the day, but we do so by affirming Scripture and not denigrating fellow human beings.

Chick-Fil-A is going to keep on doing what it has been doing - serving up delicious food and treating customers with friendliness and "second-mile service".  And for those who charge Chick-Fil-A with discrimination - you will definitely not find its restaurants refusing to serve someone because he or she has a different opinion on marriage or homosexuality or anything else than the Cathy family.  

The 3 - July 22, 2012

On this edition of my week-in-review feature, "The 3", I spotlight how some Christian leaders and ministries responded to the deadly attack at a Colorado movie theater early Friday morning.   Also, a major restaurant chain is facing opposition just because its leader dared to stand for traditional marriage.   And, thousands gathered in Orlando for the annual gathering of people involved in Christian retail.

3 - Christian leaders, ministries respond to Colorado Batman shooting

In the wee hours of the morning on Friday, as moviegoers across America went to midnight showings of the new Batman movie, "The Dark Knight Rises", dark and troubling images began to emerge from Aurora, Colorado, as a masked gunman opened fire in a packed theater, taking the lives of a dozen and wounding over 50 more.   A suspect, James Holmes, has been taken into custody.

While the details were still being sorted out, ministry leaders began to speak out and to get involved in ministering to those affected by the massacre.  The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team, which was already in Colorado to minister to the victims of the wildfires there, immediately travelled to Aurora to try to bring some peace and comfort to the community.  Greg Steir of Dare 2 Share, a Colorado-based ministry that reached out in the aftermath of the Columbine shootings, offered his thoughts in The Christian Post.  

The leader of another ministry in the state, Focus on the Family, spoke out.  Focus President Jim Daly is quoted by The Christian Post as saying:  "What happened up in Aurora ... was the product of pure evil. It was the result of a depraved individual taking his free will to the extreme..." 

In another Post article, it was noted that author and apologist Lee Strobel adjusted his scheduled message for this weekend at Cherry Hills Community Church in Highlands Ranch:  "The community has been terribly shaken by the tragic shooting in Aurora. Christians have been responding with prayer vigils and reaching out to hurting families with support and counseling...Our church swung open our chapel for prayer and scrapped plans for our Sunday services. I was supposed to speak on the topic of marriage,  but we've postponed that so I can address the question on many minds: Why does God allow tragedy and suffering?"

Strobel went on to say that, "it's important for people to understand that God is not the creator of evil and suffering; that even though suffering isn't good, God can use it to accomplish good; that the day is coming when suffering will cease and God will judge evil; that our suffering will pale in comparison to what God has in store in eternity for His followers; and that we need to decide whether to turn bitter or turn to God for peace and courage."


Dr. Chris Hill, senior pastor of The Potter's House of Denver, opened the church for special prayer at 12 noon on Friday. Pastors and grief counselors were available to counsel with anyone in need.

Dr. Marc Newman, President of Movie Ministry, offered some thoughts on the theater tragedy and some of the dominant, spiritually-oriented themes in "The Dark Knight Rises" in this conversation from The Meeting House on Friday, July 20th:

2 - Chick-Fil-A president offers viewpoint on values, gay marriage

The fast-food restaurant chain that has been established on Christian values and is closed on Sunday has encountered some opposition for several years now.  Chick-Fil-A appeared on some gay activist groups' radar when it gave free food to a FamilyLife "Art of Marriage" conference being sponsored by a Pennsylvania organization that has a history of standing strong for traditional marriage.  This resulted in the chain being targeted on a few college campuses because of its activities regarding this conference, which promotes God's blueprint for a strong marriage - a one-man, one-woman marriage.


Another round of opposition to Chick-Fil-A's Christian values has come recently regarding comments made by Dan Cathy, President of the company and son of its founder, Truett Cathy, who celebrated his 91st birthday in March.  Dan was interviewed by the Biblical Recorder, and here is an excerpt, reprinted by Baptist Press:

Some have opposed the company's support of the traditional family. "Well, guilty as charged," said Cathy when asked about the company's position.

"We are very much supportive of the family -- the biblical definition of the family unit. We are a family-owned business, a family-led business, and we are married to our first wives. We give God thanks for that."

Mainstream media outlets took those comments, as well as comments made by Cathy on the Ken Coleman radio show back in June, and began to use words like "anti-gay" to describe the practices and philosophy of the restaurant chain.  Baptist Press quoted Dan as saying on the radio show:

"As it relates to society in general, I think we are inviting God's judgment on our nation when we shake our fist at Him and say, 'We know better than You as to what constitutes a marriage,'..."I pray God's mercy on our generation that has such a prideful, arrogant attitude to think that we would have the audacity to try to redefine what marriage is all about."

According to Baptist Press, the company issued a statement Thursday (July 19) telling its customers that "going forward, our intent is to leave the policy debate over same-sex marriage to the government and political arena" and that its tradition is "to treat every person with honor, dignity and respect -- regardless of their belief, race, creed, sexual orientation or gender."  It also noted that it has applied "biblically-based principles" to business management and will continue to do so.

The statement was posted to the company's page and has received (as of mid-Sunday afternoon) over 63,000 likes and over 20,000 comments.   Family Research Council shared a positive Facebook post which has received over 4,500 likes and over 1,000 comments, as well.

The same article quoted Glenn Stanton of Focus on the Family, who said:

"...here we have the CEO of a clearly on-the-record traditional values company simply saying he supports the traditional family and how tampering with it is contrary to God's will. And the split-second reaction from these activists is to slander him and his company in the press and blogosphere. It just takes one company taking an alternative position to make the gay activists and liberal press hit the ceiling. But that's where we are today."

Stanton said the message by some opponents of Chick-fil-A apparently is, "Speak up for the natural, traditional family and we will come after you."  

Chick-Fil-A is being portrayed in a negative light simply for its leader reaffirming Biblical values.  As these groups have a right to express their own opinion, so Mr. Cathy should have the same right to share his Biblically-informed views. 


1 - Christian communicators and retailers converge on Central Florida for major convention

This past week in Orlando, CBA (formerly known as the Christian Booksellers Association) presented its annual International Christian Retail Show, bringing together Christian retailers, distributors, and publishers, as well as a variety of authors, filmmakers, musical artists, and others for the purpose of education, motivation, and fellowship.  The event took place in Orlando at the massive Orange County Convention Center, and thousands attended.

Curtis Riskey, Executive Director of CBA, visited the Faith Radio/The Meeting House display outside the exhibit hall, where I was conducting interviews during the conference:


According to CBA, sales of Christian products by CBA member suppliers through all distribution channels are valued at more than $4.63 billion.   CBA is the trade association for approximately 1,700 Christian stores, including independents, regional and national chains, church-owned stores, franchises, and marketing groups, plus more than 500 book publishers, record companies, gift companies and other product suppliers.

Riskey is quoted on the CBA website as saying that, “This Channel sells more Christian products than all the other channels combined...Christian retail’s unparalleled assortment means increased choice for the customer and greater exposure for the supplier. Suppliers understand that Christian retailers are joined with them in their mission, and are committed at a heart level. For us, ‘Christian’ is not a category; it’s a store-wide commitment.”

The event provided a great opportunity to interface with a number of high-profile Christian communicators.   You can listen to or download audio through the Meeting House website at www.meetinghouseonline.info or go to www.faithradio.org/media.   An album of pictures from the event (special thanks goes to my son, Eric) can be found here.

The 3 - July 14, 2012

This edition of "The 3", my week-in-review feature, includes a controversy involving a pastor in Arizona who began a jail sentence this week for hosting Bible studies on his property - or is he running a church there, as city officials contend?    Another story involves another major mainline Christian denomination that has approved a liturgy that can be used in a same-sex marriage ceremony.   And, the top story - lawmakers took another vote - the latest in a series - on the topic of health care, the first since the Supreme Court issued a ruling on the constitutionality of the law.

3 - AZ pastor begins jail sentence

What constitutes a "church building"?   That is the issue surrounding Michael Salman of Phoenix, Arizona, who began a 60-day jail sentence on Monday, after being found guilty of some 67 code violations regarding tthe use of his property for church services.  He was also fined over $12,000.  At issue, apparently, is a 2000-foot building that he constructed on his property, which city officials contend is being used as a church, and therefore must comply with the local codes.


Salman and his attorney, John Whitehead of the Rutherford Institute, contend that the city is engaging in religious discrimination.  Read the reaction in The Christian Post.

Whitehead is quoted as saying on Fox and Friends that, "The key is – the Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of religion … the right to assemble and talk to each other wherever you want to be – in public or in your home."

According to a Post report, Michael Salman is an ordained pastor of Church of God in Christ and founder of Harvest Christian Fellowship.  He has argued that he has the right to worship at home on his private property. He and his wife can't understand why they are being targeted for gathering at home for religious purposes when in homes across America, people are gathering for parties, poker nights, and football games. In spite of holding weekly meetings to worship and study the Bible, Salman has maintained that the building used for his gatherings is not a church.

Phoenix officials have countered with a timeline of their own in the tug-of-war with Salman, contending they are attempting to enforce local regulations. 

The concern here is the use of private property.  Whitehead has pointed out that the early church met regularly in homes.   And one has to ask how big a gathering has to be in order to be considered a "church".   Recently, in California, officials fined the leaders of a home Bible study - they sued the city, but withdrew the suit after the city was beseiged by bad publicity, and it agreed to revise its policies.

It is a bit unnerving when a pastor or a Bible study leader has legal action taken against him or her - in America - where freedom of speech and freedom of association are cornerstone principles.   When you read about the tremendous work of God that has taken place in home groups, and how common this type of activity is across America, there could certainly be concern if this type of action is taken by other municipalities.



2 - Episcopal delegates approve ceremony for same-sex marriage

There has been unrest in the Episcopal Church in the United States as the result of the ordination of an openly gay bishop.   Many Episcopals who wished to remain affiliated with the Anglican Communion formed a new entity called the Anglican Church of North America. 


According to Baptist Press, delegates at the U.S. Episcopal Church's triennial convention adopted a provisional liturgy, "Witnessing and Blessing of a Lifelong Covenant", which will debut in December and can be used for commitment ceremonies for same-sex weddings in states where such unions have been declared legal, according to the church. Delegates approved it July 10.

David Virtue, president of Virtue Online, the Anglican communion's largest orthodox Evangelical Anglican online news service, minced no words in describing the vote.

"It's shocking, it's terrible. They're doing something that's never happened in 2,000 years of church history," he said. "They are legitimizing a behavior and offering rites to that behavior that is untenable, unbiblical, unscriptural, theologically unacceptable to both Roman Catholic, Orthodox and Evangelical Protestant churches."

The Institute on Religion and Democracy reports that 12 traditionalist Episcopal Church bishops have released a statement dissenting from the actions of the 1.9 million-member U.S.-based church after officials at the governing General Convention certified the "provisional" rite.

"We believe that the Scriptures clearly teach that God's vision for sexual intimacy is that it be exercised only within the context of marriage between a man and a woman," the statement reads in part. The minority report states that the bishops took an oath at ordination declaring scripture "to be the Word of God, and to contain all things necessary to salvation."   The dissenting bishops name the new liturgy as "for all practical purposes same-sex marriage."

This action by the Episcopal Church follows a narrow vote by delegates to the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)'s annual convention to continue to define marriage as one man and one women.  These are certainly disturbing trends in 2 of America's mainline denominations, and reflect a radical departure from the teachings of Scripture concerning the sanctity of marriage.  


1 - House votes to repeal health care law...again

The change in the landscape and language of the health care law resulted in another vote in the U.S. House of Representatives to repeal the massive legislation.   This represents over 30 times that the body has taken a vote to repeal at least some part of the law.   Speaker of the House John Boehner is quoted by CNN as saying, "....we've voted over 30 times to repeal it, defund it, replace it. And we are resolved to have this law go away and we're gonna do everything we can to stop it."   

Supporters of the law say that the Republican leadership should begin to focus on creating jobs.   However, because of concerns over how the new regulations will affect small business, there is a reasonable thought that fewer jobs are being created.   Now that the penalty for not buying health insurance is considered a "tax", one has to think of how it could negatively impact the entire economy.   

The repeal stands almost no chance of passage in the Senate and would definitely be vetoed by the President, but the House vote did get lawmakers on record with respect to health care, which was thought to be a pivotal issue delivering the chamber into Republican hands in 2010.  

Christians continue to be concerned over the amount of their tax dollars that could go to fund abortion.   And, the mandate that health insurers provide free contraception and abortion-inducing drugs continues to be a sore spot and the source of multiple lawsuits that are in various stages of litigation.   Concern over the size and scope of government, as well as the availability of health care services to the most vulnerable among us are other issues that have motivated a number of Christians to stand in opposition to the plan.

The health care issue will no doubt be a major issue in the Presidential campaign and other races this year.   Elections have consequences, and that is why it's so important that people of faith are active in politics and vote their values in the voting booth.

The 3 - July 7, 2012

This week's edition of "The 3", my week-in-review feature, points to legislation in California that could further contributes to the redefinition of the family there.   Also, a major denomination wrestles with approving a new definition of marriage to include same-sex marriage.  And, a large conference in Australia draws Christians from dozens of nations around the world. 

3 - Gay-friendly parenting measures advance in California

There's an unfortunate saying that states that if you want to see the future in your state and area, just look at what's going on in California.   And, indeed, in the name of being progressive and even futuristic, lawmakers in the Golden State are considering more measures that serve to redefine the traditional family and legitimize alternative family structures, consistent with the homosexual agenda.

CitizenLink reports on 2 bills making their way through the California Legislature that attempt to redefine what it means to be a "family":
SB 1476, authored by San Francisco Democrat Mark Leno, seeks to allow any number of adults to share legal custody of a child. The bill has already passed the Senate and at least one committee in the General Assembly, and could soon come up for a floor vote in that chamber soon.  The bill would, according to the text, "in the case of a child with more than 2 legal parents, require the court to allocate custody and visitation among the parents based on the best interest of the child, including stability for the child.”

Glenn Stanton, Focus on the Family’s director of family formation studies, pointed out how such arrangements may actually harm children, rather than help them.   He said, "You talk about the ping-ponging between (a divorced) mom and dad?...Now it’s three parents, four parents, five parents — and that is crazy for the kid.  If the family breaks up, it will create a very difficult situation for the child.  Increase that by more numbers, and you’ve got a horrible situation.   He added that, "No new family form that we have seen has elevated any form of important child well-being...They’ve all harmed it. This is just another one of those changes that will hurt children and is driven simply by an adult desire to have them.”

Stanton reminds us, "No family, no culture anywhere has found a family alternative that is more effective at raising good children than the mom-and-dad family.”

Another bill that could advance the gay agenda in the state is pending before the state Senate, after already passing the General Assembly.  According to CitizenLink, under the proposed legislation, those who wish to be foster parents would be required to first spend 40 hours in the classroom learning how to become more sensitive to children who may be confused about their gender or sexual orientation.

Author Dale O'Leary is quoted as saying that the bill would likely drive Christian couples away from becoming foster parents, and have a serious impact on children struggling with their sexuality.    She contends that the bill is based upon the false - and harmful - premise that sexual orientation is an immutable, fixed trait.  She says, "It’s very scary because children in foster care have already been seriously damaged.  You don’t get into foster care because you’ve had a perfect life...A child who’s been sexually abused by a person of the same sex, (particularly if the child is a boy), is going to have doubts about his identity...And he needs help to get through that...If we push homosexuality on him, or these gender-identity ideas, it’s just going to confuse him.”

These and other measures introduced and/or passed in the California Legislature represent attempts to redefine marriage and the family.  In an age where we need the structure and security that comes from a  Biblically-based definition of family, these lawmakers, and those who hold the same philosophy across the country, are contributing to further erosion of the traditional family unit, and a less stable society as a whole.  


2 - Presbyterian denomination affirms traditional definition of marriage

The biennial General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) had another issue concerning homosexuality on its agenda in Pittsburgh this week.   A church committee had voted to change the wording of its definition of marriage from "between and woman and a man" to "between two people".   After that 28-24 vote, the proposal was put to the entire body, which rejected the change by a narrow vote of 338-308, according to a report in The Christian Post. 

This was the latest proposal coming before the denomination dealing with various elements of the gay agenda.    Back in 2010, a majority of the presbyteries ratified a constitutional amendment at the General Assembly to remove the 1996 standard that required "fidelity in the covenant of marriage between a man and a woman or chastity in singleness".  That opened the door to "partnered gay clergy", a move that has resulted in the defection of at least 100 congregations from the denomination in recent years, according to the Presbyterian News Service.

This year, some presbyteries had called for the restoration of the 1996 standard for all clergy.  Five other presbyteries sought an authoritative interpretation of the constitution that would allow pastors to officiate at wedding ceremonies in states where same-gender marriage is legal.

Earlier in the week, the vice moderator of the General Assembly, the Rev. Tara Spuhler McCabe, resigned  after realizing that her recent participation in a same-sex marriage was going to be disruptive.   She had just recently been elected to that high position in the denomination.

Some of the more liberal denominations are in various stages of tolerating gay clergy and accepting gay marriage.  This year, the PCUSA has taken a significant step to reject the attempts of many leaders in the denomination to embrace the gay lifestyle, behavior which is viewed by many as contradictory to Scriptural teaching.    


1 - Hillsong conference in Australia attracts high-profile speakers, scores of believers

From Sydney, Australia, a worldwide movement has grown, centered on the ministries based at the Hillsong Church, including Bible teaching and worship.   Each year, the Hillsong Conference draws thousands from across the globe to hear world-class speakers and musicians.   Christian Today (Australia) reported that there were some 72 nations represented in the conference, which is headquarted at the 25,000-seat Allphones Arena in Sydney Olympic Park.


In the last 25 years, Hillsong Conference leaders say their main focus has been to "create a place for people of all ages who are passionate about their local church and to empower them with purpose for the Kingdom of God."

Speakers included Steven Furtick, founding pastor of Elevation Church in Charlotte, who told the gathering on its second night that, he was not ready to accept God's call for his life, but he responded to the Lord anyway.  He said, "I've never been ready. I wasn't ready when we started the church. I didn't feel ready when the church started to grow, thousands of people were coming to Christ, but the church got bigger than the town I grew up in. I wasn't ready for that."

He went on to say that, "Since God doesn't need you to feel ready – news flash – He just wants you to obey and follow Him. God doesn't need you to feel ready for what He's calling you to do."

Passion movement founder Louie Giglio recounted a low point in his life when he was struggling with stress and depression.  He told the story of how God gave him a song in his heart:  "...Just four lines: Be still my soul there is a healer. His love is deeper than the sea. His mercy is unfailing. His arms a fortress for the weak," he said. "And then this little phrase, 'I lift my hands to believe again.' I'm thinking that from two o'clock to 4 o'clock that night I sang that song."

Giglio's difficult time came during the middle of a church plant and the death of loved ones, said that although things became better for him after his first prayers and singing to God, there were many daily struggles yet to overcome.

He said he eventually did receive help from a doctor, but...It was a weapon of praise that led me out of the darkness and back into the land of the living. It was praise that ripped open that cloud and allowed the light of God's love to shine in and draw me back up into the symphony of all creation."

Other speakers included Joyce Meyer and Joseph Prince. Guest worship leaders included Chris Tomlin and Matt Redman. The Hillsong leadership team is composed of Brian Houston, Bobbie Houston, Joel Houston, Reuben Morgan, Joel A'Bell, and Julia A'Bell.


It makes a significant impact when thousands of Christians from all across the globe become energized and motivated in their walk with Christ, and the ministry of Hillsong has been used significantly to draw believers closer to Christ and help them to develop a greater passion for him.  

The Hillsong Live worship team has released a new project, "Cornerstone", videos are available at facebook.com/HillsongLive, and the team will be touring the U.S. this fall.   One stop is in Birmingham, AL on September 18th at the Boutwell Auditorium.  You can find tour information at that Facebook page, as well.

The 3 - June 30, 2012

On this edition of "The 3", the big story has to be the stunning Supreme Court decision on health care and its implications.  But, there are other notable stories affecting people of faith this week, including a court decision aiding New York City churches who wish to rent space for worship in public school buildings, and aid for residents of Colorado Springs, headquarters for a variety of ministry organizations, a city that is being ministered to in the wake of devastating wildfires.

3 - Court says that New York City churches can continue to meet in schools

It's been a 17-year battle between officials in New York City and churches there, who have been allowed to rent space in school buildings in order to hold their worship services on weekends.   The city had attempted to enforce a policy that would bar churches from renting space, Bronx Household of Faith filed suit, and late last year, a Federal appeals court said that the city's ban was constitutional - since the U.S. Supreme Court decided not to hear the case, the city gave a deadline for churches to find other places to meet.

The Bronx church partnered with the Alliance Defense Fund and went back to court to seek to resume meeting in the buildings, and in February, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York issued a preliminary order that allowed Bronx Household of Faith and other religious groups to conduct worship services in schools while the ADF lawsuit against the city proceeded.  On Friday of this week, the court made the preliminary order permanent.


Jordan Lorence of ADF said, "Churches that have been helping communities for years can continue to offer the hope that empty buildings can’t...The court’s order allows churches and other religious groups to meet for worship services in empty school buildings on weekends on the same terms as other groups. ADF will continue to defend this constitutionally protected right if the city chooses to continue using taxpayer money to evict the very groups that are selflessly helping the city’s communities, including the public schools themselves.”   The city had contended that allowing the churches to meet in their buildings violates the Constitution, but, at least in this round, the court has dismissed the city's contention.   For now, churches have the access, but it would not be surprising to see further court action.
 

2 - Colorado ministries face peril from wildfires, ministries from across America get involved

Residents of the Colorado Springs area have been under the threat of a raging wildfire to the northwest of the city, where some 32,000 residents were evacuated as the result of a dramatic increase in the size and scope of the Waldo Canyon Fire, threatening the Air Force Academy and destroying thousands of homes.

A number of national and international ministries are headquartered in the Colorado Springs area, including Focus on the Family, whose facility is just across Interstate 25 from the Academy, the Navigators, whose building was threatened and evacuated, and Compassion International.    A number of families from these and other ministries faced evacuation and loss of property as the result of this disaster.

And, Christian ministries began to mobilize to bring relief to those affected by the fires.   Gleaning for the World, a ministry associated with Thomas Road Baptist Church in Lynchburg, Virginia, is working with church partner New Life Church in Colorado Springs, distributing water, food, personal care supplies and related items to more than 50,000 evacuees in the state.


And, Samaritan's Purse and the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team are also working to bring aid and spiritual comfort to those adversely affected by the fires.   Samaritan's Purse is actively recruiting volunteers to go to Colorado and New Mexico to aid in wildfire relief, as well as Minnesota and Florida to help in the aftermath of flooding.   To learn more, you can go to www.samaritanspurse.org.

And, The Christian Post has a report, including a quote from Brady Boyd, pastor of New Life Church, commenting on his church's willingness to help:

"What I love about our church is that I did not have to tell anyone, anything or organize [a response]. They responded without me even saying anything," he said. "They took people into their homes. They took food down to the food banks. There were people that were moving horses, livestock out of danger, they've volunteered all that.

"We don't wish for these kinds of tragedies, but in these kinds of times this is the church's finest hour. This is when the church can be the church. Our people from across the city are responding."

Continue to be in prayer for the residents of Colorado Springs and other areas that are suffering under these threats.   There will be those who have lost property and will have to take a number of steps to rebuild.   Others have suffered and are still suffering from the fear of being under such a threat.   And, pray for rain, which is a remedy for the dry conditions that have helped to facilitate these occurrences of wildfires throughout the West.

1 - U.S. Supreme Court rules health care law constitutional, individual mandate is a tax

After oral arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court on the combination of cases challenging the national health care law, known as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) or "Obamacare", it was widely thought that the government's lawyers had failed to make the case that the individual mandate to purchase health care, which provides the funding mechanism for the health care act, was somehow constitutional under the Commerce Clause.  In other words, the government could not force you to buy anything simply because you are alive and breathing.   And, when the greatly anticipated ruling was handed down on Thursday, it was true, the Supreme Court had said the mandate could not be allowable under the Commerce Clause.   But, in the majority opinion written by Chief Justice John Roberts, siding with the 4 liberal justices on the court, he stated that the individual mandate was a tax, and therefore falling under the power of Congress.  In his opinion, Roberts seemed to indicate that the role of the high court was to determine constitutionality, not whether or not a piece of legislation is good public policy.

And, Christians and Christian groups have long decried the Act as being poor public policy.   Not only does it expand the size and scope of government, it provides a mechanism to fund abortion using tax dollars, and could lead to the rationing of care at the expense of the most vulnerable in society.  Now according the Supreme Court, it represents a large tax increase, which adversely affects taxpaying individuals and families.

Here is the report from CitizenLink.

So, where does the law go from here?   The Obama Adminstration has indicated it will go full speed ahead to implement the massive health care structure.   However, a number of groups, including dozens of Catholic entities, have filed suit against the mandate that employers, including religious institutions, provide their employees with free contraception and abortion-inducing drugs under their health care plans.  This has perhaps become the largest religious liberty issues of our time.  

Steps are being taken in the House and Senate to repeal the law, a repeal that would be vetoed by current President Obama.  But if a new President, Mitt Romney is elected, then the road to repeal will be greatly enhanced.   Voters will have their say in November, and as Chief Justice Roberts wrote in his majority opinion, 

Members of this Court are vested with the authority to interpret the law; we possess neither the expertise nor the prerogative to make policy judgments. Those decisions are entrusted to our Nation’s elected leaders, who can be thrown out of office if the people disagree with them. It is not our job to protect the people from the consequences of their political choices. (from ABC News)

So, while many Christians and conservatives take issue with Roberts' position, his point here is well-taken:   the people have the opportunity to elect leaders who will govern consistent with our ideology.   That is why we must make a prayerful and an informed choice when we vote and see which candidates will reinforce our values.

The 3 - June 24, 2012

In this week's edition of "The 3", my week-in-review feature, another attempt at removing the name of Jesus Christ from public prayers in a major U.S. city, a Supreme Court ruling dealing with broadcast indecency, and a major church denomination makes history at its annual meeting in New Orleans.

3 - Volunteer chaplains restricted in public prayers

There is quite a bit of confusion out there regarding the rights of officials to pray according to their own unique faith perspective.  Quite commonly, we hear about municipalities and other government entities that have issued restrictions on the content of  prayers used in accordance with public meetings.

And, the latest site of concern is Charlotte, North Carolina, where, according to the Christian Examiner, volunteer chaplains in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg County Police Department will no longer be able to use Jesus’ name in prayers at public events, such as police graduations, promotions, and memorials.


Major John Diggs, overseer of the chaplain program, told a local television station that the goal is to be more sensitive to all religions.

Terry Sartain, pastor at Horizon Christian Fellowship and a police chaplain for seven years, said he got the news shortly before he was to give the invocation at a promotions ceremony last month. When he was told not to use Jesus in his prayer, he asked to be excused, according to the Charlotte Observer, which quoted him as saying, "I don’t want to jam my beliefs down anybody’s throat. But I won’t deny Jesus."

Based on past experience, I would say that this policy will receive its share of public comment.   In this case, the Constitutionally-guaranteed free expression of religion is being restricted, and officials who are trying not to offend some faith groups are running the risk of offending Christians.

2 - Supreme Court rules on indecency fines, but not law


As we await major rulings from the U.S. Supreme Court on health care and immigration in the coming week, the high court did issue a ruling on a case involving instances that have been on the radar of Christian groups and media monitoring organizations for some time now.    According to CitizenLink, the court ruled unanimously in a case originating with a 2003 episode of the long-cancelled ABC show “NYPD Blue,” which contained a seven-second segment of nudity, and vulgarities aired during live award shows on Fox in 2004.


The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) fined ABC $1.2 million and criticized Fox for the incidents; the networks complained that the broadcast standards were too vague before the incidents, and only clarified afterward.   The court sided with the networks, saying, "The Commission failed to give Fox or ABC fair notice prior to the broadcasts in question that fleeting expletives and momentary nudity could be found actionably indecent. Therefore, the commission’s standards as applied to these broadcasts were vague, and the commission’s orders must be set aside.”

So, the length of the objectionable material was at issue here and the timing of the enforcement.   But, the Supreme Court did not adjust current law on indecency.    Patrick Trueman of Morality in Media is quoted as saying, “While the ruling is not what (we were) hoping for, it should be understood that the high court did not strike down the federal indecency law, nor did it uphold the decision of the U.S. court of Appeals finding that the FCC enforcement regulations of that law were unconstitutional."

A previous Supreme Court ruling dating from 1978 gave the FCC the power to police the networks, particularly between the hours of 6 and 10 p.m., when children are more likely to be watching TV.

“Broadcast decency rules have existed to protect children since the dawn of the broadcast medium,” Parents Television Council President Tim Winter said. “It is for their sake that there will still be decency rules and the TV networks will be required to abide by them.”


This ruling did not involve the Janet Jackson Super Bowl halftime case, or other instances.  The FCC now must review more than a million complaints about broadcast indecency and vulgarity that were lodged while the case was pending review.   For the time being, rules on what can be shown during prime-time television are intact, but there continues to be the threat that the FCC will either voluntarily or by a court mandate revise its policies, which could lead to a loosening of content regulations on prime-time broadcast TV, which will be of great concern to Christian parents.

1 - Southern Baptist messengers choose first African-American President, pass groundbreaking resolutions

The annual meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention took place in New Orleans this week, and hometown pastor Fred Luter, who had served for the previous year as convention first vice-president, was elected as the first African-American President of the convention.   This is being hailed as a step forward in race relations for the denomination, which had been chided in the past because of its history.   According to the Christian Post:

It was less than 20 years ago when the Southern Baptist Convention officially apologized for condoning and perpetuating racism. The SBC was formed in 1845 out of a split with northern Baptists over the right to own slaves. Many in the denomination supported segregation. 

Baptist Press reports that since that apology in 1995, the Convention has seen the percentage of non-white churches grow, from 5 percent of the SBC in 1990 to 19 percent in 2010.  Last year, messengers approved a landmark report encouraging ethnic diversity in committee appointments.


Almost 7900 messengers attended the two-day convention in New Orleans, which featured a number of other notable developments (according to Baptist Press), including:

- the descriptor, "Great Commission Baptists", was authorized for voluntary use by churches, by a 53-46 margin.  The convention will still be known as the Southern Baptist Convention, but there was sentiment that the descriptor would help churches outside the South and ethnic churches who are trying to reach people who might view the name "Southern Baptist" negatively

- messengers overwhelmingly passed a resolution called, "On Cooperation and the Doctrine of Salvation," which said in part, "We affirm that The Baptist Faith and Message provides sufficient parameters for understanding the doctrine of salvation, so that Southern Baptists may joyfully and enthusiastically partner together in obedience to the Great Commission."   There is a theological difference among Southern Baptists that was highlighted from the podium from outgoing convention president Bryant Wright and Executive Committee President and former convention president Frank Page, who called for unity between those who embrace Calvinism and those who do not.  Page plans to convene a group of advisers to help maintain unity on the issue, and Wright, in his convention sermon, said:  "If we pride ourselves more on being a traditional Southern Baptist or more on being a Calvinist or a Reformed theologian, more than we are thankful that we are Christ-centered and biblically based ... then it is time to repent of theological idolatry."

- messengers strongly approved a resolution saying that homosexuality is not a civil rights issue, reaffirming opposition to same-sex marriage, and calling for Southern Baptists to "stand against any form of gay-bashing" and that messengers "express our love to those who struggle with same-sex attraction and who are engaged in the homosexual lifestyle."

- a resolution on the sinner's prayer said the prayer is "not an incantation that results in salvation merely by its recitation and should never be manipulatively employed or utilized apart from a clear articulation of the Gospel." It further said that messengers "promote any and all biblical means of urging sinners to call on the name of the Lord in a prayer of repentance and faith."

- Tom Elliff, President of the International Mission Board, followed up on a challenge from the 2011 convention, when he called on Southern Baptist churches to claim responsibility for evangelizing all of the world's then-3,800 unreached, unengaged people groups.   He said 1,281 Southern Baptist churches and entities have indicated an interest in embracing such a group, and 474 have indicated a deeper level of commitment.

- Kevin Ezell, President of the North American Mission Board, the "home missions" arm of the convention, highlighted the goal of a net increase of 5000 Southern Baptist churches in the next 10 years.

- more than 1100 decisions for Christ were made during the yearly evangelistic emphasis in advance of the convention, known as Crossover.


Going in to the convention, LifeWay Research had released the results of a membership and attendance survey for the denomination.   The Christian Post reports that the denomination has lost members for 5 straight years, and now has less than 16 million members, after an almost 1 percent drop from 2010 to 2011.  Primary worship attendance has also dropped by 0.65 percent to around 6.16 million.

There is some good news, though.  After reporting its lowest number of baptisms in decades in 2010, the SBC saw an increase in baptisms in 2011.   According to the report, baptisms increased by 7/10 of one percent.   And, there are 37 more churches this year, bringing the total to over 45,764.  

But, it's a tough neighborhood - there is a rise in secularism throughout the culture, and more choices for church consumers.   But, if the week in New Orleans is any indication, Southern Baptists, or "Great Commission Baptists", are strategizing to face the future and to remove barriers that would keep people from accepting and following Christ.

The 3 - June 17, 2012

This edition of my week-in-review feature, "The 3", includes a type of military Bible that is no longer allowed to be sold on military facilities, an important vote on religious liberties in North Dakota that only received just over one-third of the total number of ballots, and a statement by scores of religious leaders, making a decision to speak out on illegal immigration.

3 - Department of Defense pulls "military Bibles" from store shelves

We have been tracking some of the ways that the U.S. Military has taken steps, in some instances, to remove vestiges of religion from its facilities, under intense pressure from one particular organization.  And, this week, the announcement came that a popular series of military-themed Bibles, which originally contained the insignias of each branch of the service, has been removed from the store shelves.  The Bibles, which have been manufactured by B&H Publishing, now contain a generic insignia, rather than the official branch logo.

According to CitizenLink, the U.S. Department of Defense granted permission for the publishers to use the insignia on the Soldier’s Bible, Sailor’s Bible, Marine’s Bible and Airman’s Bible in 2003, but revoked it last year after the Military Religious Freedom Foundation threatened to sue the government, claiming the insignia amounted to an unconstitutional government “endorsement” of religion.

The Christian Examiner had this story.


While the foundation is claiming victory, Ron Crews, executive director of the Chaplain Alliance for Religious Liberty, is crying foul.  He has pointed out that military personnel dating back to General George Washington have taken counsel and been encouraged by biblical texts.

"Why should these Bibles be removed because of the demands of a small activist group," he asked. "The MFRR must cease and desist their reckless assault on religious liberty."

The Department of Defense claims that trademarks are the issue, not religion.  But it has certainly been seen as religious in nature.  And, taken together with other activities that have been curtailed at military facilities, a narrative is building with regard to a military member's lack of freedom of religious expression in some instances.  The Bibles have been, and continue to be, quite popular, and apparently will continue to be sold with the generic insignia.



2 - Religious freedom amendment goes down in North Dakota

Citizens across America are concerned that their constitutional rights to practice their religion are declining.   While the establishment of religion has been a principal concern for a number of years, there are those that would want religion practices to go on behind closed doors, rather than in public, and that represents a threat to the Constitutionally-guaranteed free expression of religion.

So, states are taking steps to guarantee that their religious rights do not continue to erode.   Voters in North Dakota went to the polls in the past week to consider an amendment strengthening religious freedom rights.  And, while the chances of passage looked good for a season, groups such as Planned Parenthood, the American Civil Liberties Union, Emily’s List and Americans United for the Separation of Church and State spent nearly $2 on each of North Dakota’s 684,000 residents, asking them to vote against Measure 3.

The measure failed by a 64 to 36 percent margin.

Here's the story from CitizenLink.

Voters in other states have also taken up the issue.  In 1990, the U.S. Supreme Court reduced the level of protection historically afforded religious protection.  Since then, Congress, with the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, and 16 states have passed measures restoring a higher standard.   Next up, it's Missouri, where family advocates there will be championing an amendment in August, and perhaps this type of opposition will be seen there, as well.  

Freedom of religion is a basic constitutional right, and we continue to recognize that this nation was founded in accordance with Judeo-Christian principles, as men of faith took a strong stand against tyranny and expressed their dependence on Almighty God.    To continue to allow our freedom of religion to erode sets up a scenario where religious oppression, which was a chief reason for our founders declaring independence, becomes more and more widespread and problematic.   It does make sense that the more tyrannical and overreaching that government becomes, the less tolerant it is of the religious freedom of its citizens.  The reasoning is that if more people become dependent on government, they are likely to be less dependent on God. 

1 - Evangelical leaders sign immigration reform document

The topic of immigration reform has been a rather contentious one, as states such as Arizona and Alabama have passed strong legislation designed to enforce the nation's immigration laws.   And, recently, you have heard discussion of a DREAM act being considered by Congress, which would provide certain benefits for children of illegal immigrants.   This week, the President issued an Executive Order providing similar assurances.

This is an issue that the church can definitely be out front on, and, under the auspices of the National Association of Evangelicals, over 100 faith leaders have issued a document attempting to balance the rule of law with a possible path to citizenship.    These leaders, across the doctrinal and political spectrum, issued the Evangelical Immigration Table document, which says:

As evangelical Christian leaders, we call for a bipartisan solution on immigration that:

• Respects the God-given dignity of every person
• Protects the unity of the immediate family
• Respects the rule of law
• Guarantees secure national borders
• Ensures fairness to taxpayers
• Establishes a path toward legal status and/or citizenship for those who qualify and who wish to become permanent residents.

Numerous heads of denominations, as well as Christian ministries, signed on to the document, which is not designed to grant amnesty, but does call for a way that illegal immigrants can either become legal residents or citizens.  

The list is impressive, and gives Christians a chance to demonstrate compassion for illegal immigrants and their families, while still underscoring the importance of the rule of law and secure borders.    Baptist Press had this report.

Dr. Richard Land of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, as well as other leaders of the Evangelical Immigration Table have been promoting comprehensive reform for several years.   Land, quoted in Baptist Press, said:  "...it's time for the politicians to understand that the country has changed on this issue, and they believe it's well past time for the government to get its act together and to pass immigration reform that is in line with these principles...And we as evangelicals are here to say to both parties, 'Get with it.'."   He cited a Pew Forum survey that showed 70 percent of Americans said they would be more likely to vote for a candidate who backs comprehensive reform.

According to the article, the statement marks a significant expansion of evangelical endorsers in a cooperative effort.  Notably, Focus on the Family took a stance on the issue for the first time when its president, Jim Daly, signed the statement. The coalition includes evangelicals from both the left and right.

Evangelical left leader Jim Wallis, President of Sojourners, pointed to the agreement between his organization and more conservative groups such as the SBC, Focus on the Family and the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE).   "That doesn't happen very often," Wallis told reporters. "An effort for immigration reform of this size and this diverse has never been attempted in the evangelical community."

Scriptural principles can be applied to so many areas of public policy, and this statement on immigration reform shows how Christians can provide truth and wisdom to what has been a contentious issue.

The 3 - June 10, 2012

On this edition of my week-in-review feature, "The 3", we first of all take a look at a husband and wife in New Mexico whose photography business is being chastised because they did not want to photograph a gay wedding.  Then we move on to the Federal courts, where this week, there were more rulings by judges concerning the definition of marriage.   And, preserving religious liberties was the theme of rallies in over 150 cities across America, as people of faith gathered to stand in opposition to government's attempt to force people to violate their conscience regarding health care.

3 - New Mexico court says photographers wrong to refuse lesbian clients

A growing trend in the business sector was brought to light again this week in the case of a New Mexico photography studio that was asked to take pictures at a wedding - between two lesbians.   The couple politely refused, saying that same-sex marriage violated their moral beliefs.   The gay couple found another photographer, and you would think that would settle the matter.

Not so - just as in the case of a Kentucky t-shirt company that refused to print gay pride shirts, a complaint was filed with the state Human Rights Commission.   The commission determined that the photography studio, Elane Photography, had committed "sexual orientation discrimination", and ordered the owners to pay over $6,600. 

The photographers contacted the Alliance Defense Fund, and they appealed the commission's ruling.   In 2009, a trial judge sided with the Commission's decision, and this week, the New Mexico Court of Appeals upheld the Commission's decision on the grounds of the state's Human Rights Act.   The owners now intend to appeal the case to the New Mexico Supreme Court--and beyond, if necessary.

Here's the story from the Family Research Council's website.

Jordan Lorance of the Alliance Defense Fund wrote an excellent op-ed piece that was published in the Santa Fe New Mexican.   In it, he says:

We should encourage business owners to operate their businesses with ethics and higher principles so that they do not mindlessly dispense goods and services with no thought to the impact of their actions. The Constitution protects people's expression of their views, even when it comes in a commercial context...Business owners do not surrender their constitutionally protected rights at the marketplace gate.

This is a trend that is being seen not only regarding business owners' rights to choose who their customers will be, but in a variety of other areas, such as sports and entertainment, as well.   Just ask fighter Manny Pacquaio, or Ron Brown of the University of Nebraska, or actor Kirk Cameron.   Those who express their deeply held moral views publicly in opposition to gay marriage have been chastised and ridiculed.   But, while it is discouraging, we should continue to express Biblically-based viewpoints, aware of the consequences that could ensue, and reliant on the Lord to sustain us when we are criticized.

2 - More court decisions on the definition of marriage

This week, more court decisions were handed down concerning the definition of marriage.   The most notable was the decision by the entire 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals not to review the ruling by a 3-judge panel of the appeals court, stating that Proposition 8, the amendment to the California constitution stating that marriage was defined in the state as one man and one woman, was unconstitutional.   This sets up a scenario that likely will lead to the case being heard by the U.S. Supreme Court.

In another development concerning marriage and its definition, a New York Federal district judge ruled in a challenge to the Defense of Marriage Act, striking down a component of the Federal law that defines marriage as one man and one woman.    According to the Christian Post:

U.S. District Judge Barbara Jones said the Defense of Marriage Act’s definitions “intrude upon the states’ business of regulating domestic relations” by re-examining the marriage definitions by the various states - six of which, plus the District of Columbia, recognize gay marriages.
“That incursion skirts important principles of federalism and therefore cannot be legitimate, in this court’s view,” Judge Jones said.
The ruling came in a case brought by a woman whose partner died in 2009, two years after they married in Canada.  Because of the federal law, the woman didn’t qualify for the unlimited marital deduction on her late spouse’s estate and was required to pay $363,053 in federal estate tax. 

The woman sued the government in 2010 and the judge ruled that the plaintiff was to be reimbursed for the money she paid in estate tax.

The issue here is apparently partner benefits, a topic also dealt with in a decision out of the 1st Circuit recently.   And, apparently courts are saying that in order to change the eligibility for benefits, the traditional definition of marriage should be changed.   DOMA is facing a host of challenges, and one of these cases, presumably the one dealt with by the 1st Circuit, could end up at the high court.   The defense of DOMA is being carried on by attorney Paul Clement on behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives, as the result of the Obama Administration's refusal to defend traditional marriage.  

In other news concerning marriage, two more states, Maryland and Washington, are on their way to voting on the definition of marriage, as a result of petition drives to reverse action taken by the respective legislatures and governors of those states to redefine marriage.    Maryland marriage supporters met their first deadline last week, and Washington supporters have turned in the required number to get a referendum on the ballot there.

The national debate is continuing on this important issues, and it's important to reinforce the benefits of marriage, not only to the parties involved and members of the families, but to our communities and society at large.

1 - Thousands "Stand Up for Religious Freedom"

In March of this year, thousands took to the streets of a variety of American cities to stand against the mandate by the Department of Health and Human Services that employers, including most religious institutions, provide free contraception, sterilization, and abortion-inducing drugs to their employees.   And, while Catholics have been most impacted because of the church's teaching on contraception, this is really an affront to people of faith of all denominations, because it is an attempt by government to force someone to take an action that violates their deeply held religious convictions.

I do believe this is a move indicative of somewhat of a "contraception culture" that is seemingly offering a license to engage in premarital sex without the consequences of a pregnancy.   So, in one sense, I think that contraception is an issue here.   And, the fact that drugs that cause abortion are being funded is another issue.

The widespread issue of religious liberty has gained the majority of attention here.   And, people are mobilizing - lawsuits have been filed by dozens of entities against this mandate on religious freedom grounds.   Plus, the first round of "Stand Up for Freedom" rallies in March has now led to another round this past week.   Indications were that over 150 cities were holding rallies, which also coincided, to a certain extent, with the expected U.S. Supreme Court decision on the national health care law.   The date also marked the 223rd anniversary of the passage of the Bill of Rights. 

LifeSite News offered a broad overview of the coast-to-coast rallies.

According to their piece:

Early media coverage showed hundreds of people attended each major rally, holding yellow balloons that say “Religious Liberty” and waving signs that read, “Stop the HHS Mandate.”
In the nation's capital, Michele Bachmann and Lila Rose expounded upon the Constitutional liberties enshrined in the First Amendment.
Jill Stanek spoke in Chicago. The San Francisco rally was emceed by Dana Cody of the Life Legal Defense Foundation. In Montana, a crowd gathered outside the officers of U.S. Senator Max Baucus, a Democrat who supports the mandate.

It's helpful to have a series of events continuing to keep this issue in the collective consciousness of people across the nation.   So often, we take part in "one-and-done"-type of events and lose momentum on important issues of faith - consistent prayer and action can be highly effective in demonstrating public opinion and influencing decisions.  

The 3 - June 3, 2012

On this edition of my week-in-review feature, "The 3", the spotlight shines internationally first of all on a nation that is experiencing some transition, and the Christians there are quite concerned.   And, a court in the Northeast U.S. has ruled a Federal law defining marriage unconstitutional.   Plus, in the top slot, the U.S. House had a chance to ban a certain category of abortion, but failed to reach the number of votes necessary to pass the bill.

3 - Unsettling days for Egypt's Christians


The first round of voting in Egypt's election for President has concluded, and two candidates will be vying for the title later this month.   The two candidates are:  Muslim Brotherhood candidate Muhammed Morsi and independent candidate Ahmad Shafik, who was former president Hosni Mubarak's last prime minister.  His candidacy may have been damaged by the announcement on Saturday that Mubarak, who resigned under pressure last year, was sentenced to life in prison as a result of deaths of some of the protestors in that uprising, one of the series of "Arab Spring" instances.

According to Crosswalk's ReligionToday.com: ASSIST News Service reports that many Islamists, fearing Shafik if he comes to power, are blaming Coptic Christians for voting for him and bringing him into the runoff.   Copts have been accused of being "traitors" and "anti-revolutionary" for voting to bring back the old regime.   Coptic human rights lawyer Athanasious Williams is quoted as saying that regardless of who wins the election, persecution of Christians will continue in Egypt -- the question is just how bad it will be.

The website also reports that Morsi has declared that he will "achieve the Islamic conquest of Egypt for the second time, and make all Christians convert to Islam, or else pay the jizya [Islamic tax required of non-Muslims]," according to the Gatestone Institute.  Morsi is quoted as saying that, "The second Muslim conqueror will be Muhammad Morsi, and history will record it."   When asked what he thought about many Coptic Christians voting for his opponent, Morsi reportedly said, "They need to know that conquest is coming, and Egypt will be Islamic, and that they must pay jizya or emigrate."

And, the Christian Examiner reports that an Egyptian judge has sentenced 12 Coptic Christians to life in prison for their alleged part in a riot that left two Muslims and one Christian dead in the village of Abu-Qurgas.  Eight Muslims charged with the same crimes in the same riot were acquitted.   That May 21st ruling has added to fears that justice will continue to elude the country's Christian minority.  A second, lesser-known ruling, however, may be a cause for hope.  In that ruling, an Egyptian court upheld a death sentence against a police officer who, in 2011, boarded a train, attacked a group of Christians and shot one dead.   Samia Sidhom, managing editor of Watani newspaper in Cairo, said the ruling went against "an unwritten rule" that judges cannot give the death penalty to a Muslim who kills a Christian.

Coptic Christians didn't have it so well when Hosni Mubarak was in power, and so voting for his surrogate would no doubt have been a difficult exercise.  But, Morsi and the Muslim Brotherhood majority in the Egyptian Parliament are likely to implement Sharia, or Islamic, Law, which would make life even more challenging for these brave believers.   We're reminded that living the Christian life in many Middle Eastern countries is an invitation to persecution, and that we need to be in prayer for the believers in that region.


2 - Appeals court rules Defense of Marriage Act unconstitutional

On Thursday, the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals found a way, or created a way, to declare a portion of the Federal Defense of Marriage Act unconstitutional.   By rejecting traditional arguments, the court in essence crafted a new path to grant the same benefits to same-sex partners that spouses in traditional marriage receive.   According to Liberty Counsel, the ruling dealt with Section 3 of DOMA, which defines marriage as one man and one woman for purposes of federal law and federal benefits, specifically joint federal tax returns, Social Security survivor benefits, and federal employee health insurance and medical benefits.


The U.S. House of Representatives now has the responsibility to defend DOMA, as the result of the Obama Administration saying that it would no longer defend the act, that was passed overwhelmingly by Congress and signed into law by President Clinton in 1996.   The House, and its attorney Paul Clement, are likely to appeal the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Christian legal advocacy organizations were swift to weigh in on the ruling.    Mat Staver, the Founder and Chairman of Liberty Counsel said: 

“This ruling makes no sense. A state cannot dictate the kind of benefits the federal government must provide...If a state recognizes polygamy, does that mean that the federal government must also recognize multiple spouses? Absolutely not! This decision is the proverbial tail wagging the dog.”

Alliance Defense Fund  Legal Counsel Dale Schowengerdt stated:

“Society should protect and strengthen marriage, not undermine it. The federal Defense of Marriage Act provides that type of protection, and we trust the U.S. Supreme Court will reverse the 1st Circuit’s erroneous decision.”

And, Brian Brown, President of the National Organization for Marriage, commented:

"Liberal federal judges in Massachusetts and California have resorted to making up legal standards in order to justify redefining marriage...They realize the legal precedent doesn't allow them to redefine marriage, so they are making up new standards to justify imposing their values on the rest of the nation. It is clear that the US Supreme Court is going to have to resolve this issue once and for all."

There is seemingly growing opposition to the traditional, Biblical view of marriage, but the sociological research shows that marriage is an essential building block of a stable society, so the government should be interested in protecting it.   From a moral and spiritual standpoint, stable marriages contribute to the preservation of the family, the general happiness of the couples, and an environment best-suited for the raising of children.     


1 - House fails to get enough votes to ban sex-selection abortion

The U.S. House of Representatives had a unique opportunity this past week to outlaw an entire category of abortion - for the purpose of gender selection.    Even though a sizable majority of the House voted in favor of the Prenatal Non-Discrimination Act (PRENDA), a 2/3-majority was necessary under the rules, and the vote fell short of passage, with a 246-168 margin.  The bill faced rejection in the Senate and a Presidential veto, but it does get lawmakers on record regarding their position on terminating a human life just because the unborn child is female.   Rep. Jean Schmidt of Ohio said, according to LifeNews.com: "Abortion is wrong at any level, but to condone someone wanting to end a life based solely on the sex of their child is horrendous. This is an assault on women. This is gendercide."

This bill came to a vote the same week that the pro-life invesigative media group Live Action released 2 undercover videos shot at a Planned Parenthood center in Austin, Texas, in which a Planned Parenthood employee counsels a woman to have an abortion because it would be born as a girl.   According to LiveAction.com:

The Planned Parenthood staffer suggests that the woman get on Medicaid in order to pay for an ultrasound to determine the gender of her baby, even though she plans to use the knowledge for an elective abortion. She also tells the woman to “just continue and try again” for the desired gender after aborting a girl, and adds, “Good luck, and I hope that you do get your boy.”

“The search-and-destroy targeting of baby girls through prenatal testing and abortion is a pandemic that is spreading across the globe,” notes Lila Rose, founder and president of Live Action. “Research proves that sex-selective abortion has now come to America. The abortion industry, led by Planned Parenthood, is a willing participant.”

According to Live Action, there are thousands of missing girls in various nations around the world due to sex-selection abortions.   But, in the name of preserving a "woman's right to choose", a significant number of lawmakers have stood in solidarity with those who accept the termination of a life because she is female.   Opponents of the bill said that the supporters were carrying on a "war on women", but doesn't that ring hollow when you are discussing actually taking the lives of females?