The 3 - March 31, 2013

He is risen indeed!   Easter weekend gives us a chance to pause, reflect, and worship in response to what Jesus did for us on the cross at Calvary.   Not only is the celebration of Easter the top news story of this week, but the death and resurrection of Christ are the culmination of the story of God's love for and redemption of humanity.   I also check out some response and analysis to the U.S. Supreme Court's hearing of arguments concerning the definition of marriage.   And, let's open up with the story of religious freedom in Kentucky.

3 - Kentucky religious freedom bill withstands governor's veto

A bill that would support religious freedom in the state of Kentucky is now law, thanks to the House and the Senate there voting to override the veto by Gov. Steve Beshear, who said that The Kentucky Religious Freedom Act could “threaten public safety, health care and individual’s civil rights," according to a report on the CitizenLink website.

The legislation was designed to protect the religious freedom of individuals and religious organizations. The bill’s language states that the government shall not burden these freedoms, unless it can prove a “compelling governmental interest” for doing so. The legislation also protects the rights of individuals and religious organizations to act or refuse to act on religious grounds.

The legislation is simply a way to protect people, said Kent Ostrander, president of the Family Foundation of Kentucky.  He explains that, "This bill is a shield for people of faith...It is not a weapon or a sword against anyone else .There’s been significant misunderstanding about that in recent weeks.”

The House voted 79-15 and the Senate voted 32-6 to override the veto.

This legislation is significant in that it offers protection for those who desire to share their faith and act according to their deeply held religious beliefs.   In an era where many are concerned about the erosion of religious freedom in America, this bill attempts to provide a step in the opposite direction - and could be an example for other states.

2 - Gay marriage goes before the U.S. Supreme Court

This week, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in two cases involving same-sex marriage:  the Proposition 8 case, involving California's amendment defining marriage as one man for one woman, and a case involving the Defense of Marriage Act, passed by Congress in 1996, holding that for purposes of Federal law, a marriage is defined as one-man, one-woman.

Tuesday, the high court held arguments on Proposition 8.   Bruce Hausknecht, Judicial Analyst for CitizenLink, an affiliate of Focus on the Family, said that Justice Kennedy, generally thought to be the "swing" vote in this case, expressed a view that while the proponents of Prop 8 do have “standing” to bring and argue the appeal, he clearly has doubts about whether the issue of same-sex marriage, in general, should be before the Supreme Court yet.  Hausknecht also pointed out that Justice Scalia's questions to Ted Olson, arguing on behalf of those challenging Prop 8, on when it became unconstitutional to prohibit gay marriage, and Olson’s fumbling of a response, helped prove Scalia’s point that the Court can’t make decisions like this based on some sort of evolutionary theory of constitutional law.

While the Supreme Court may be a bit hesitant to weigh in on Prop 8, the next day, as the arguments shifted to DOMA, there did seem to be some questioning on whether or not the Federal government should be defining marriage - Justice Kennedy reportedly seemed to question if this were strictly a state matter.   Family Research Council, in its "Washington Update" for Wednesday, said that FRC's Senior Fellows Chris Gacek and Ken Klukowski, both attorneys, were at the Supreme Court for the oral arguments, and Chris said not to believe media spin that DOMA took a total beating.  He reported that Paul Clement, the former U.S. Solicitor General hired by the House BLAG to defend DOMA, gave the strongest performance of any attorney in the two days of arguments.

FRC says that:

No amount of legal footwork by those seeking redefinition of marriage can change the fact that society needs children, and children need a mom and a dad. It's not just about love between adults, it's about civilization. That's a compelling reason for both California and the federal government to define marriage as the union of one man and one woman, and for the Supreme Court to uphold both Proposition 8 and DOMA.

Emily Belz, writing for the WORLD News Group at WorldMag.com, said that:

The U.S. Supreme Court cast a skeptical eye on the Defense of Marriage Act Wednesday, but on federalism grounds rather than equal protection. So if the court strikes down the law, it would probably do so because the law overrules states on marriage, rather than because the law discriminates against homosexuals. 

Liberty Counsel notes that:

Marriage is not just an emotional bond between two people or a legal document. It is an institution ordained of God to rightly order procreation and provide the best environment for the well-being of children. The natural family is fundamental to our very existence! That’s why the Supreme Court’s decision on this case is so important.

A same-sex relationship simply cannot be a marriage. Marriage does not depend on a popularity poll.

If marriage is redefined into something it cannot be, the marriage institution will be weakened, children and families will suffer, and religious freedom will be at risk.

Your prayers have never been more critical! Pray that the Supreme Court upholds the natural definition of marriage.

The Alliance Defending Freedom developed a prayer guide leading up to the Supreme Court hearings, and prayer is going to be very critical in the days to come, as the high court ponders the government's interest in preserving marriage - a decision is expected in early summer.  (Hear Andrew Walker of the Heritage Foundation on The Meeting House.)

1 - Easter Sunday gives rise to inspiration, innovation

Easter Sunday, or Resurrection Sunday, is thought to be the most popular holiday for church attendance.  A new LifeWay Research survey taken prior to Easter weekend shows that attending church on Easter Sunday is not a cut-and-dry decision for everyone - even for self-identified Christians. 41 percent of Americans surveyed said they planned on attending an Easter worship, but 39 percent said they did not; 20 percent said they are undecided.   This makes the case for people inviting friends, neighbors, and family members to attend Easter services with them.  

And, churches across the country had special outreaches planned for Good Friday and/or Easter Sunday.  Here's a sampling of some of the creative ways that churches and ministry organizations were providing opportunities for people to hear the message of the cross and the empty tomb:

Beachfront services bring scores in Florida
The Christian Post reports on an Easter Sunday phenomenon at Rosemary Beach, Florida, a popular vacation spot in South Walton County, near Seaside.  A beachfront service has been increasing in attendance dramatically since its beginnings a few years ago.   Last year, between 1200 and 1500 people assembled in a green space near the beach.   What's going on in Rosemary Beach right now, according to Chapel at the Beach Pastor Mike Young, is a movement of increasing faith.

Preaching through film in prison

Prison Fellowship is using film to present the message of redemption through Christ to those who are incarcerated.   It is partnering with the producers of the movie, "Unconditional", and has scheduled two screenings of the film inside 2 Florida correction facilities during Easter weekend.

The events also feature Prison Fellowship CEO Jim Liske and "Papa Joe" Bradford, a former maximum security inmate now working to improve the lives of Nashville's at-risk kids.   His life is the inspiration behind the film.   (Hear "Papa Joe"'s story from The Meeting House.)

For years, Chuck Colson, founder of Prison Fellowship, preached in prison for Easter Sunday - in fact, his last such appearance took place Easter weekend of 2011, his last round of Easter prison visits before his death in 2012.

Church takes service to a larger stage

The Rock Church in San Diego held a massive Good Friday service in the baseball stadium in that city, Petco Park. "We want to engage the community and be there to love and serve those in need," said Rock Church Senior Pastor Miles McPherson, the former NFL player who leads the fourth largest church in Southern California.

Church staff and volunteers set lofty goals for the event, which included a blood drive and food and clothing collection.  Ministries were present to provide prayer, support and encouragement to survivors of suicide, single parent families, blended families, those seeking counsel from prison ministries, and those who've experienced sexual abuse.  A care package ministry and home improvement ministries were also present.  

Alabama church re-enacts crucifixion scene
In Mobile, Alabama, Mount Hebron Church Ministries in north Mobile has re-enacted the crucifixion of Christ for the past several years.

Some of the men in the church volunteered to dress in red-stained white clothing and stand on a tiny ledge on a cross with their arms outstretched and wrists hanging by ropes.  They began at 9 a.m. and switched off every hour. At noon, members gathered for worship at the grassy lot off I-65 North near the church.  The church was scheduled to hold a large service at the University of South Alabama on Easter morning.

These are just a few of the innovative ways that people and churches are taking advantage of what I believe is an increased spiritual sensitivity leading up to and including Easter Sunday.   We have been given a unique opportunity during this season to reflect and help others reflect on the coming of Jesus to the world to pay the price for our sins.

The 3 - March 24, 2013

In this week's edition of my week-in-review feature, "The 3", I want to identify an emerging issue in Washington that deals with removing or reducing the tax deduction for charitable contributions - there was an important meeting in the nation's capital this week.   Also, pro-life legislation has been passed regularly during this legislative session in North Dakota, and another one was passed this week.  And, the top story involves a development in the endorsement of the Boy Scouts' current policy not allowing openly homosexual behavior - a new coalition has been formed to try to oppose changes to that policy.

3 - Rescue mission representatives visit the nation's capital

There has been quite a bit of concern expressed by representatives of non-profit ministries about the possibility of the tax deduction for charitable contributions being reduced or eliminated as a way to increase revenue for the Federal government.  This deduction can be a powerful incentive for donors, especially those with a great capacity to give, and therefore the provision can be of great assistance in helping charities carry out the powerful work that they do.   If charities are not able to do their work as effectively, then the safety net of government will have to be expanded.   The net effect could be greater dependency on government at the expense of charities who are well-positioned to assist.

According to ASSISTNews.net,  representatives of the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions (AGRM), representing some 275 such missions nationwide, organized a gathering in the nation's capital this past week, where 22 rescue mission leaders, representing some of the nation's largest cities and AGRM staff discussed public policy issues relevant to their organizations, met with Capitol Hill politicians to educate them about their missions' work, and prayed for the country and its leaders.   One of the issues discussed was the potential reduction in the amount that could be deducted from taxes for charitable contributions.

AGRM President John Ashmen is quoted as saying that a cap or limit to the charitable deduction would result in a loss of billions of dollars each year in private contributions to serve communities' critical needs.   He said that, “Everything rescue missions do for hundreds of thousands of people - feeding, sheltering, rehabilitating, counseling, life-skills programs, job training and more - would end up in the government's lap.  Frankly, with its black-hole debt, the government cannot take this on. Moreover, the government does not know how - and definitely shouldn't attempt - to handle relational and spiritual poverty, which are keys to unlocking the prison doors of destitution for so many of our citizens.”

This is an important debate that could affect hundreds, even thousands, of churches and charities nationwide.   Another chapter took place this past week in Washington, DC, and as various charity sectors make their voices heard, it is hoped that it could open the eyes of lawmakers who are considering this action.

2 - North Dakota Legislature passes bill affirming life begins at conception

The North Dakota Legislature seems to be pulling out all the stops in attempting to limit abortion in the state.  Just days after passage of a bill that would ban abortion once a heartbeat is detected - generally thought to be 6 or7 weeks - lawmakers took another bold step in passing a bill that recognizes that  “the inalienable right to life of every human being at any stage of development must be recognized and protected.”   It's been described as a "personhood" bill, and according to WORLDmag.com, it's one of multiple pieces of legislation that have made their way through the Legislature.  Before passing the personhood and heartbeat bills, the legislature also passed bans on abortion once a fetus can feel pain (at 20 weeks), or because of genetic defects such as Down syndrome. North Dakota now has the strictest anti-abortion laws in the nation.

Penny Nance, president of Concerned Women for America, is quoted as saying, "We applaud North Dakota for defending life. The bills in North Dakota protect the lives of the most innocent Americans, those without a voice, in the womb.”

But pro-abortionists claim that outlawing abortions not only violates a woman’s right to choose but will only lead to an increase in illegal, dangerous procedures. They have pledged to fight in court if Republican Governor Jack Dalrymple signs any of these bills into law.   The governor has not said whether or not he will sign the latest pro-life bill to pass the North Dakota Legislature. 

1 - New coalition formed to defend Boy Scouts' traditional values

An important development concerning the Boy Scouts of America potentially considering allowing openly homosexual members and leaders took place over the weekend in Orlando.  According to The Christian Post, parents, Scoutmasters, Eagle Scouts and other Scouting leaders from across the country, who are supportive of the BSA's current policy, were due to announce the launch of a national organization and a coalition of concerned BSA members. 

In January, the Scouts announced that they would reconsider their national policy banning openly gay leaders and members. The new proposal would strike down the national ban and allow local chapters to decide whether or not to admit openly gay members.

Deron Smith, BSA's director of public relations, said: "This would mean there would no longer be any national policy regarding sexual orientation, and the chartered organizations that oversee and deliver Scouting would accept membership and select leaders consistent with each organization's mission, principles, or religious beliefs."

According to the BSA website, more than 70 percent of the organization's 100,000 scouting units are chartered to faith-based groups, and leaders in the Southern Baptist Convention and Roman Catholic Church have voiced their opposition to the change.

The Family Research Council and 41 other allied organizations recently released an ad in USA Today urging the BSA to keep the ban in place, saying that the organization must "not surrender to financial or political pressures by corporate elites on the issue of homosexuality."  Changing the policy would force troops and individual Scouts to be exposed to behavior that they and/or their parents do not condone and would severely alter the time-honored morality that has characterized Scouting.

Attorneys for the BSA are expected to draft a resolution to be released next month to be voted on by the national council on May 22-23 in Grapevine, Texas, as to whether or not to allow open homosexuality in the Boy Scout program.

Having a coalition representing Scouts who advocate the current policy can lend some strength to the effort to prevent the BSA from instituting what many believe to be a devastating move.

The 3 - March 17, 2013

This week's edition of "The 3" includes a major conference held in Atlanta bringing over 2 thousand pastors and church leaders together to be encouraged and equipped.   Also, a different sort of conference convened later in the week, bringing together political conservatives, with a significant number, I would imagine, being Christian evangelicals.   And, the big news from the world of religion, the selection of a new Pope - I'll include some insight on why this election can be important to all Christian believers.

3 - "Drive" conference motivates and challenges pastors and church leaders

When you have over 2400 pastors and ministry leaders representing some 700 organizations from 25 countries, you know you have a potentially transformative event.   Those were the numbers from the largest-ever "Drive" conference, held this week at North Point Community Church outside Atlanta, where Senior Pastor Andy Stanley welcomed attendees in the opening session, saying, according to The Christian Post that, "We're a big church but there's a lot of stuff we're still figuring out and we're constantly learning from each other...We've discovered that size isn't the important issue, but rather a sense of creativity and shared ideas."

This is the seventh Drive Conference and the largest number of attendees ever.  The theme this year was, "Go Further Faster."  It sold out weeks ago, and there were hundreds of people who registered to watch online.  Clay Scroggins, lead pastor at Browns Bridge Community Church in Cumming, GA, one of the North Point churches, who was one of this year's emcees, was quoted by the Post as saying, "We all want to grow and see God do more, and our prayer is that this conference will leave you inspired, motivated, challenged, and equipped to go further faster in your ministry."

In the opening message, titled "Breaking the Ice," Gavin Adams, lead pastor of Watermarke Church in Canton, GA, another church affiliated with North Point Ministries, challenged pastors and ministry leaders to personally engage with unchurched people and focus on conversations rather than confrontation and condemnation.

Highlighting the apostle Paul's exhortation in Colossians 4:3-6, Adams spoke of what it means to "be wise in the way you act toward outsiders" and emphasized the need for followers of Christ to listen intently, seek to understand, and build relationships rather than simply pushing an agenda or lecturing others about their behavior.

There is a yearning for pastoral leaders to be equipped and to fellowship with like-minded leaders, and this conference has a potential to help those leaders to strategize and to positively impact their congregations.

2 - Religious freedom theme present during CPAC 

The annual Conservative Political Action Conference, or CPAC, attracts conservatives from all across America to hear from a variety of high-profile speakers, including potential Presidential candidates, such as Rand Paul, Marco Rubio, and others who spoke this year.  Paul edged out Rubio in the 2016 straw poll, by the way.  Traditional conservative thought leaders such as Newt Gingrich, Sarah Palin and Michele Bachmann were part of the speaker lineup, which also featured 2012 Republican nominee Mitt Romney.

There were a number of pro-life panels at the conference, including one hosted by Stuart Shepard of CitizenLink, which featured David Altrogge, who wrote and directed a film called, “3801 Lancaster, " which follows the unfolding story of Dr. Kermit Gosnell, 72, an abortionist facing eight murder charges.  Altrogge said during the panel that, “The trial is going to begin Monday and we plan on continuing to follow the story and the case as it begins to unfold...We have also begun to hear about clinics much like Gosnell’s operating in other states. In fact, we were just on the ground in another state beginning to work on a documentary about a clinic that’s operating and the parallels are quite terrifying.”

Also, religious freedom was a topic that was addressed by two speakers, both featured at past National Prayer Breakfast events - this year's Breakfast speaker Dr. Ben Carson and last year's speaker, Eric Metaxas.  According to The Christian Post, Metaxas, whose most recent book is a biography of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, said that he found himself thinking more about religious freedom in America as he put together the book about the German theologian.   Metaxas believes there are some "disturbing parallels" between what was taking place in Germany in the 1930s and the United States today on the issue of religious freedom.

"When a government bullies a minority, instead of protecting a minority," Metaxas said, "that is the beginning of the end of America."   He extrapolated the situation in pre-World War II Germany to the current situation involving government telling religious organizations that they must violate their conscience in order to provide contraception and abortion-inducing drugs to their employees. 

Dr. Carson, who is a renowned pediatric neurosurgeon at Johns Hopkins University, told the CPAC crowd, We have to resist this war on God...People don't want to talk about God and don't you ever dare mention Jesus Christ. And this is supposed to be a country where we have freedom of religion and freedom of speech? It is absolutely absurd."

After their respective speeches, Carson and Metaxas appeared on stage together.  Metaxas said to Carson regarding his Prayer Breakfast speech, "I thought you spoke with grace and civility...I was dismayed that the punditocracy, most of the folks in the conservative world, were kinda spiking the ball and doing the end zone dance at what you said, which colored those remarks in a way that, I thought, was not appropriate."

"I just want to say to my fellow conservatives," Metaxas continued. "We need to express the truth in civility and love, otherwise, it's magically not the truth anymore."

In an era where conservative values in many instances line up with Biblical truth, there is common ground on which Christians can be influential.  It is important that Christians are seen not as purely political in our ambition, but as people who are devoted to living out God's truth in love, people who hold to strong convictions without compromise, but who express our conviction in winning, rather than repelling, ways.


1 - Pope Francis I elected by cardinals

This past week, on the fifth ballot, the 115 Roman Catholic Cardinals meeting at the Sistene Chapel in the Vatican in Rome decided to name the former Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Jorge Bergoglio, as the new Pope.   It takes two-thirds of those voting in order to elect the Pope.  Bergoglio took the name Pope Francis I, in honor of St. Francis of Assisi.    Bergoglio had placed second in the last Papal election, when Benedict XVI was selected.

The election of the Pope is of utmost concern to Christians who are non-Catholic, including evangelicals.  The Pope, as evidenced during Benedict's term, can be a clear voice in this world for teaching that is consistent with the Bible.  Catholic believers have been quite outspoken on the abortion issue and other matters pertaining to life.  And, the Pope can present strong moral clarity for a host of other issues, as well as an awareness of God and His relevance in our world today.

So, it is not surprising that evangelical leaders speak out about the selection of a new Pope.  Well-known evangelist  Luis Palau, a fellow Argentine, shared with Christianity Today what he thought that evangelicals can expect from Pope Francis:

He's a man of strong convictions. He isn't swayed by the powers that be of any kind, even political. He's very strong on moral issues. I think we'll see a papacy that will make relations easier and lessen tensions. It doesn't mean [evangelicals and Catholics] will agree on every angle; that should be said. He is the Roman Catholic pope, and there are issues that need to be talked about, prayed about, looked at the Bible about. … Those differences in doctrine are there, but when there's a proper attitude toward one another and to the word of God, and you take it seriously, light comes from the Lord.

 Conservative, evangelical leader Gary Bauer wrote in USA Today regarding Catholics and evangelicals:

We both champion the idea -- the truth -- that there are reliable standards of right and wrong to which all institutions, including government, must adhere. We stand together in proclaiming that all human life has equal dignity and worth. And we stand together in defending the traditional and time-honored conception of marriage as a union of one man and one woman...

Beyond politics, the West is suffering from what can be called a crisis of brokenness -- broken institutions, broken families and broken souls. In a society in which there seem to be fewer citizens who understand where our liberty comes from (God), strong churches -- evangelical and Catholic -- are essential.

As an evangelical, I was delighted that the last two popes were moral and theological giants. Together, John Paul II and Benedict XVI gained many evangelical admirers by preaching against the "culture of death" and the "dictatorship of relativism" and for a "culture of life."

Baptist Press featured a summary of the background of Pope Francis I, as well as the papacy itself.    Quoting the Westminster Dictionary of Church History, the piece points out that today, Catholic doctrine holds that the pope is "the representative (vicar or vicegerent) of Christ on earth, and that his solemn official pronouncements on matters of faith and morals are infallible, safeguarded from error by God."

R. Albert Mohler Jr., president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, wrote after Pope John Paul II's death in 2005 that evangelicals "simply cannot accept the legitimacy of the papacy and must resist and reject claims of papal authority.  To do otherwise would be to compromise biblical truth and reverse the Reformation."  

So, while there will be differences in doctrine and the viewpoint on on papal authority, we also recognize that Catholics and evangelicals can be powerful allies in building a culture of grace and stifling the increasing secularization of our society.

The 3 - March 10, 2013

In a week that ended with the announcement that the conclave to choose the next Pope would begin meeting on Tuesday of the coming week and with Tim Tebow speaking before 10,000 at Liberty University, there were a number of significant news stories, such as the actions of the Arkansas Leislature, taking bold steps to defend the unborn.   Also, students on what is expected to be almost 600 campuses are standing together against human trafficking.   The top story is the actual premiere of "The Bible' miniseries, the ratings of which exceeded anything on broadcast television last Sunday night and is the most-watched cable entertainment telecast in 2013.

3 - Arkansas bill bans abortion after 12 weeks, legislature overrides gubernatorial veto

The flurry of pro-life bills in state houses over the past 2 years has served to protect the lives of unborn children nationwide.  And, while some states have passed laws banning abortion at 20 weeks, the time of gestation when it has been medically proven that an unborn baby can feel pain, lawmakers in Arkansas have taken it up another notch with the "Human Heartbeat Protection Act".

According to Liberty Counsel,  the bill states that when an abortion is performed at or after the 12th week, doctors must test for a fetal heartbeat before an abortion is performed.  If a heartbeat is detected, a woman cannot have an abortion, except in cases of rape, incest, and if a mother’s life is in danger.

State Senator Jason Rapert is the primary sponsor of the bill.  Liberty Counsel also provided counsel on the bill.  Mat Staver, Founder and Chairman of Liberty Counsel says, "The Human Heartbeat Protection Act is a commonsense bill that comports with medical science about human development. It protects the life of the pre-born child and the mother."

The bill was initially vetoed by Governor Mike Beebe, but legislators in the Arkansas Senate and House voted to override the veto.  

Staver points out that, “...personal injury, criminal, and wills and estate law, the law has continued to recognize the unborn child as a human with legal protections, not merely a ‘potential’ human being...The U.S. Supreme Court’s abortion cases are an aberration to law and stand on an island by themselves, and that island will one day disappear. We need to protect human life at all stages of development."

So, Arkansas joins a host of states that has taken bold steps to protect life.   Now, the sponsor of the heartbeat bill wants to prevent taxpayer money from going to Planned Parenthood.   According to LifeNews.com, Sen. Rapert is calling for the state to prohibit any state or federal funds from going toward any entity that performs abortions. It’s a measure that’s aimed at cutting off public funding to Planned Parenthood, which doesn’t perform surgical abortions in Arkansas but distributes the abortion pill at two facilities in the state. Arkansas’ only clinic that performs surgical abortions is in Little Rock.



2 - Students "Stand for Freedom", oppose modern-day slavery

There is a huge groundswell of support for ending human trafficking, expressed in a number of ways, including the "End It" movement in association with the January Passion conference in Atlanta.  International Justice Mission has launched its Stand for Freedom campaign, in which students are being asked to stand for a total of 27 hours in order to raise awareness and funding regarding ending modern-day slavery.  Over 500 campuses have events scheduled through March 15th - already, a number of campuses have held their events.   The number "27" is significant - it reminds us that 27 million people are enslaved around the world.   And, the IJM effort is attempting to raise some $270,000 to combat slavery.

The organization is also encouraging people to sign a petition, to be sent to President Obama.  The petition asks the president to provide leadership on a comprehensive plan to eradicate slavery at home and abroad.  Last year, more than 73,000 Americans joined IJM in calling on the President to make the fight against modern-day slavery a priority.  Last fall, President Obama called human trafficking “one of the greatest human rights causes of our time,” and recommitted the U.S. to leadership in the fight to end slavery for good.

I'm sure we'll be hearing some exact numbers in the coming days, but social media reports indicate a good bit of excitement and participation about this particular cause, a cause that is consistent with the heart of God, who sent His Son so that all may be free.

1 - "The Bible" number one cable TV event of the year

Last week, I covered the anticipation leading up to the premiere of "The Bible" miniseries.   The results are in for week 1, and the television event, produced by reality show creator Mark Burnett and his wife Roma Downey, was seen by 13.1 million viewers and scored a 3.3 rating among adults 18-49.  According to CNN, that's more viewers and a higher demo rating than any show on the major broadcast networks on Sunday night (including Burnett's own All-Star Celebrity Apprentice on NBC) and ranks as cable's most-watched entertainment telecast this year.  If you include the show's repeat, the viewership rises to 14.8 million for the night.

In a statement, Burnett and Downey stated: "We could not be more thrilled with this out of the gate success...The world is watching right now and we are incredibly humbled by the reaction to the series. This No. 1 series is a tribute to all those who have helped us to spread the Word. Ultimately 'The Bible' will be seen and felt by billions around the globe ...Today, more people are discussing God's chosen people — Moses and Abraham — in one day than ever before."

And, according to the Christian Post, Mark Burnett, when interviewed by Entertainment Weekly, said: "Weird things happened during filming."

He cited one such incident that happened when the crew was filming a night scene between Jesus and Nicodemus.  Reportedly, when Jesus referenced the Holy Spirit as being like the wind, a huge gust of air blew across the entire crew for 20 seconds, which was filming the scene on a very still night in the Sahara desert.

In another incident, the set's snake wrangler, who usually recovered one or two snakes per day on set to protect crew members, found 48 cobras and vipers hidden near the scene of the cross, where the crew was to film Jesus' crucifixion.

The third incident, according to Burnett, happened when the crew was filming a baptism scene in a giant Sahara reservoir and part of Jesus' detailed costume, which took months to create, floated away.   Burnett said that a young boy from miles away returned the costume days later.

Tonight is installment 2 of the miniseries.   There has been plenty of discussion about it, and people have registered all sorts of opinions; some good, some not-so-good.  Alleged historical inaccuracies, the choices of Biblical events portrayed, and production values have all come into question - but one thing is for sure:  for Christians and hopefully for non-believers, people are talking about "The Bible" - the miniseries, and most importantly, the book.

The 3 - March 3, 2013

Greetings from Nashville!  This week's edition of "The 3", my week-in-review feature, comes to you from the 2013 Convention of National Religious Broadcasters.    In this installment, we'll see that current Administration officials filed a brief this week stating that one-man, one-woman marriage, as defined in Federal law, is unconstitutional.   Also, because of its potential to impact culture, the NRB convention is big news affecting Christians.  And, the big story involves a new telling of God's story by some high-power players in the entertainment industry.
3 - Department of Justice argues for same-sex marriage, against Prop. 8

The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to make a decision later this year about the constitutionality of same-sex marriage, not only concerning the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), but also Proposition 8, the California amendment affirming marriage as one man and one woman.   Oral arguments will be held later this month, and the Obama Administration, through its Department of Justice, not unexpectedly, has weighed in.

You may remember that the DOJ did not defend DOMA in court, and so the responsibility was taken up by the House of Representatives.   Now, just this week, according to a CitizenLink article, the Department filed a brief with the high court arguing that DOMA is unconstitutional because it discriminates against homosexuals.  

CitizenLink reports that the department argues in the brief that the law is unconstitutional under “heightened constitutional scrutiny”:

In other words, the DOJ is asserting that sexual orientation should be treated as a suspect classification, like race or sex. The usual test for laws not involving suspect classifications is the “rational basis” test, which is a much lower threshold for laws to meet. Marriage laws have uniformly been tested under a “rational basis” review in the past.

The DOJ filed its brief in the DOMA case, United States v. Windsor. The suit involves a New York woman required to pay federal inheritance taxes on property her late partner left her. Although their Canadian marriage is recognized in New York, it is not recognized under DOMA.

CitizenLink Judicial Analyst Bruce Hausknecht weighed in, saying that, “If the Supreme Court finds that homosexuality is entitled to 'heightened constitutional scrutiny,' it could mean bad news for all marriage or family laws that define or promote one man, one woman marriage, or that support the notion that children are entitled to a mom and a dad."  
He also stated that if DOMA is struck down because the Court equates homosexuality to race and gender, it would also, down the road, cause legal issues for churches, faith-based organizations and believers across the country.

Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) Senior Counsel Austin Nimocks adds that the court has already made it clear in past cases that the federal definition is constitutional.

And, President Obama weighed in on Friday, according to CNN, saying, "Let's treat everybody fairly. Let's treat everybody equally."  He stated, "What we've said is that same-sex couples are a group, a class that deserves heightened scrutiny. The Supreme Court needs to ask the state why it's doing it, and if the state doesn't have a good reason, it should be struck down. That's the core principle, as applied to this case."


This is essentially the viewpoint of many, including those in the Administration, who equate what they believe to be a lifestyle choice with genetic traits such as race and gender, and the potential implications for the Biblical definition of marriage, which Christian and pro-family leaders have pointed out needs to be protected, are troubling indeed.

2 - NRB opens in Nashville

As I mentioned before, I am writing this week's edition of the blog from the Gaylord Opryland Hotel in Nashville, site of the 2013 National Religious Broadcasters Convention.   I write today after spending some time in the exhibit hall helping to set up the Faith Radio/Meeting House booth, at which I conduct dozens of interviews with Christian radio programmers, authors, film producers, musicians, and others who are involved in doing ministry work.

The opening general session Saturday night features speakers Raul Ries and Pete Briscoe (son of Stuart and Jill), as well as music by Christian music veteran Cindy Morgan and newcomer Andrew Greer.   I will be involved in special events sponsored by ministries such as the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Moody Radio, Turning Point, and FamilyLife Today.   I look forward to speaking with a number of influential Christian leaders throughout the next few days, including Ken and Joni Tada, David Jeremiah, Phil Cooke, Kay Arthur, Tony Perkins, and many more.

Addressing the convention already were rising evangelistic leader Nick Hall and the developer of the YouVersion.com Bible app, Bobby Gruenewald of LifeChurch.tv.   Sunday morning worship will feature Keith and Kristyn Getty and a message from Tony Evans.   There will be a public policy panel discussion on Tuesday involving the rise of radical Islam.   And, a night of entertainment will include top-level Christian comedians Chonda Pierce and Dennis Swanberg, as well as Michael Jr.

NRB offers an opportunity for Christian communicators to build relationships, receive training, and to be inspired in being more effective in Christian media.   Follow the convention online at www.nrbconvention.org.

1 - Interest builds in "The Bible" miniseries

On Sunday night, March 3rd, and continuing for 5 weeks through Easter Sunday, the History Channel will present a brand new miniseries called, "The Bible".  It's been developed by Mark Burnett ("Survivor", "The Apprentice") and his wife, Roma Downey ("Touched By an Angel").    And, it has received some glowing recommendations from a number of Christian leaders.   Saddleback Church pastor Rick Warren hosted a live webcast preview of the miniseries with the Burnetts on Saturday, and plans to use "The Bible" as the basis for a series of sermons.   Warren, quoted in The Christian Post, says that, "Every Sunday night for five weeks – from March 3rd through Easter Sunday on March 31st – millions of viewers will see the Bible come to life in a whole new way...You can make the most of this opportunity to reach out to the people in your community who will be watching...plan a sermon series, small group and outreach campaign and help viewers go deeper and learn even more about the Bible."

Earlier this month, hoping to encourage viewers of the "The Bible" to delve into the Word of God by easily accessing scripture through the latest technology, Burnett and his wife, Roma Downey, announced that the Bible App by YouVersion, developed by LifeChurch.tv, will host the official companion app for the series.

"Our prayer has always been that the dramatization of these stories will drive viewers to go to the Bible itself and drink in the actual text, because it is a book that changes lives," said Downey, who co-executive produced the series with her husband and also plays the role of Jesus' mother, Mary.

Jim Daly, President of Focus on the Family was involved as a content advisor for the series and writes,"Let’s face it - it takes some moxie to lift up the Bible in the middle of Hollywood. In fact, when they first proposed the project they were told to try and tell the story without mentioning Jesus. They refused, rightly countering, of course, that not only is it impossible to omit Jesus, but that the life, death and resurrection of Jesus is the climax of the entire book!


Daly stated, "I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Mark and Roma over the last six months. In the process we’ve become friends. It’s always inspiring to be around people who have a fervent desire to tell other people about Jesus. And this couple is clearly passionate about sharing the message of Jesus with the world as well as having the opportunity to put on film the greatest story ever told, come what may from those who may object to it."

It is Daly's belief that, "we’re living in a dark day when millions of people, including our neighbors and even many of our family and friends, refuse to accept Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior. Many of these same people refuse to go to church. They refuse to open a Bible. But many of these people watch television. That The Bible may serve as a spark to rekindle or kindle their faith should be a source of great excitement for all of us."  

So, people will be exposed to the story of God's love for humanity, expressed in a way that, by the indications I've seen so far, promises to be specatular - and it gives us a chance as believers to demonstrate and discuss how that great story has impacted us.

 

The 3 - February 24, 2013

This week's edition of "The 3" features a development in the tragic story of an American pastor being held in an Iranian prison - a letter that he was able to release to his wife and supporters.   Also, a young American sports legend attempted to avoid controversy and ended up eliciting more controversy this week.  Plus, the top story involves the passing of a legendary Bible teacher, author, and professor, who has taught and mentored a number of top Christian leaders.

3 - Pastor Saeed releases letter from Iranian prison

The eyes of Christians and some key political leaders across the nation are fixed on an American pastor who continues to languish in jail, where he faces brutal torture and pressure to renounce his faith in Jesus Christ.   According to the American Center for Law and Justice, the 32-year-old pastor, husband, and father was able to release a letter to his wife and supporters recently.

Pastor Saeed Abedini has now been imprisoned in Iran nearly five months.  He describes how the “the psychological warfare, a year of not seeing my family, physical violence, actions committed to humiliate me, insults, being mocked,” extremists and other bullying groups in Evin “create another prison within the prison walls.”

According to the ACLJ, Pastor Saeed acknowledges that the beatings and torture are designed to get him to recant his Christian faith – something he says he will never do.  “They are only waiting for one thing…for me to deny Christ,” he wrote. “But they will never get this from me.”

In one instance, a fellow cellmate “attacked” him because he was singing praise songs.

As Pastor Saeed writes, “It is during these harsh conditions, that I deeply need God’s Saving Grace so that I can be the fragrant scent of Christ in the dark house of Evin prison.”

Pastor Saeed’s wife, Naghmeh, told said that, "our worst fears have been confirmed...Saeed is an American citizen who is being pressured and falsely promised freedom if only he will deny his faith in Jesus. We have seen this tactic used in the past. Saeed will never recant his faith in Jesus - even if it means continued torture and abuse. Our primary concern is for his health and well-being with each passing day...The most important thing we can do is pray, continue to raise awareness of his case and continue to work for his freedom."

A petition drive has been launched by the ACLJ, asking the United Nations, European Union, and Council of Europe to mobilize their resources to require Iran to honor its treaties and its constitution.   You can find out more at www.savesaaed.org.

2 - Tebow announces withdrawal from Dallas church ceremony

First Baptist Church of Dallas scheduled 4 special speakers to celebrate the dedication of its new $130 million dollar facility in April.  As far as I know, three of the speakers - James Dobson, David Jeremiah and Jim Cymbala - are in.   One, as the result of false vilification of the host church and personal and professional concerns, apparently, is now - out.   Former Heisman Trophy winner and outspoken Christian Tim Tebow withdrew from the event in the a wake of sports media outcry about the football star speaking at a church that has been characterized as "anti-gay" and "anti-Semitic".   Tebow tweeted out Thursday morning:  "While I was looking forward to sharing a message of hope and Christ's unconditional love with the faithful members of the historic First Baptist Church of Dallas in April, due to new information that has been brought to my attention, I have decided to cancel my upcoming appearance."

Senior Pastor Robert Jeffress, who has been a guest several times on my radio show, was careful not to denigrate Tebow, but he was clearly concerned.  He told The Christian Post told that Tebow informed him in a telephone call Wednesday evening that he was backing out of speaking at the church in April. Tebow reportedly told Jeffress he "needed to lay low and steer clear of controversy" because of both personal and professional issues.  

The pastor says the media has made both he and his church out to be anti-Semitic, anti-gay and hate-filled.  He calls such reports a "complete mischaracterization," and says his beliefs are "hardly radical ideas."  He said, "Those have been mainstream Christian teachings for 2,000 years, and I believe the reason these statements are so controversial is not because the Word of God has changed, but because culture has changed."

He also says Tebow never expressed any concerns about the church's doctrine during their extensive conversations with one another.

"He never mentioned anything he disagreed with about our message at all, but he talked about the controversy, and I think it was related to what was going on in his professional career, and continues to go on," said Jeffress.

By the way, Pastor Jeffress received a standing ovation from his congregation as he stepped to the platform to speak on Sunday.  Todd Starnes of Fox News quoted Jeffress:

“It doesn’t matter who you are or what you’ve done — you can be forgiven of your sins if you trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior,” he told the church. “That’s not a message of hate — that’s a message of hope.”

Jeffress said he experienced a moment of personal revival during the controversy of the past week.

As long as I am the pastor of the First Baptist Church of Dallas — we are not going to kneel before the altar of political correctness and convenience,” he declared. “We’re going to stand up and boldly proclaim the grace of God and the truth of God without compromise — so help me God that is my commitment.”

So, you can't really regard Tebow's withdrawal as a rejection of traditional Christian teachings on the exclusivity of Christ and Biblical marriage.   His home congregation, First Baptist Church of Jacksonville, holds to the same beliefs, according to Mac Brunson, the Senior Pastor who once led First Baptist, Dallas.  He is quoted in the Baptist Press, citing the Florida Baptist Witness:  "We need to pray for Tim. I spoke with Timmy recently and he still believes deeply in the Gospel we all hold dear. As an NFL football player, God has blessed him with a platform to share the love of Jesus Christ with millions. He will address other issues in his time," Brunson said. "We need to pray for the good people and pastor at First Baptist Church of Dallas. They too have taken a courageous stand for our Lord," Brunson said. "Christ Himself told us that we would be hated by the world because the world hated Him. These are days to be bold for Christ and to love one another."

1 - Hendricks, professor and mentor to host of pastors and church leaders, passes away

For 60 years, Dr. Howard Hendricks served on the faculty of Dallas Theological Seminary.  He passed away on Wednesday at the age of 88.  He was highly regarded as a professor and mentor to a number of prominent Christian leaders.

Hendricks authored or co-authored some 23 books and taught more than 10,000 students. He also served as a chaplain of the Dallas Cowboys football team from 1976-1984.   According to a piece on the Christian Examiner website,  Rick Warren called Hendricks a “friend and mentor to so many of us” upon learn of his death.

Many of Hendricks' students went on to become even more well-known than he was. Among them: Tony Evans, David Jeremiah, Erwin Lutzer, Chuck Swindoll, and the aforementioned Robert Jeffress.

Chuck Swindoll, who is chancellor of  DTS and whose church will host the memorial service on Saturday, March 2nd, said Hendricks "is the one man who has had the greatest impact on my entire life. And there is no doubt in my mind that since the late 1950s to the present day, no other teacher at Dallas Seminary has been more influential to more of our graduates, or more magnetic to more potential students than Dr. Hendricks."

This is truly a man that was so dedicated to his students, and made significant deposits in the lives of his students.   He can be a source of inspiration to all of us as we seek to pour our lives into others, especially younger people, so that they might relate Christ to their generation.

The 3 - February 17, 2013

This week began with news out of Rome, as Pope Benedict XVI announced his resignation.   That was no doubt the top story of the week.  And, the annual tradition that has its roots in the Catholic church but which has spread out to other people of faith, as well, began this week with Ash Wednesday.   And, the Lenten season also coincides with some other Christian efforts.   Another key story involves the attempt by the U.S. House of Representatives to change existing law that prohibits houses of worship from receiving Federal disaster aid.

3 - Ash Wednesday marks observance of various Christian efforts

This past Wednesday marked the beginning of a 40-day time period leading up to Easter Sunday known as Lent.   The season begins with Ash Wednesday and continues for 40 days, excluding Sundays.   Lent is characterized by an attitude of sacrifice, reflection, and repentance.    A variety of church traditions have incorporated Ash Wednesday and Lent into their practice leading up to Easter.

Also, there are concentrated efforts that track with the 40-day Lenten season.   One of these is "40 Days for Life", a pro-life effort devoted to bringing together the body of Christ in a spirit of unity during a focused campaign of prayer, fasting, and peaceful activism.  The purpose includes repentance, to seek God’s favor to turn hearts and minds from a culture of death to a culture of life, thus bringing an end to abortion.   The 40-day Fall Campaign last year resulted in 789 lives confirmed saved during the campaign, one Planned Parenthood abortion center closed down, and six workers leave the abortion industry.

This year's 40 Days for Life campaign is taking place in 261 locations across America.  In Alabama, that includes Auburn, Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile and Tuscaloosa.  The 40 Days for Life blog has a piece about a television feature done by Fox 6 in Birmingham, which interviewed Ed Carrick, the local 40 Days for Life coordinator.

The reporter noted that “this is going to be a peaceful movement with no yelling or screaming. They simply want to offer alternatives to abortions.”

Ed talked about his experiences when he first began praying outside the local abortion center.

“I watched as the women come out; they were pretty much devastated,” he said. “Some were in pain. They were definitely at a loss for why they were there and what’s happening to them.

“And I guess to see the pain and suffering in their face, I said I would really like to do something about this, so I kept coming.”

Ed added that churches in the Birmingham community have raised money to fund pro-life pregnancy centers so clients can be supported financially, spiritually, emotionally and medically.

Germantown, Maryland just started its fifth 40 Days for Life vigil outside a facility where LeRoy Carhart travels each week to perform late-term abortions.

According to several reports, 29-year-old Jennifer Morbelli arrived at the abortion center in Germantown from New York state on February 3.   She was also 33 weeks pregnant.  Jennifer was told her child had significant physical anomalies and she was advised to have an abortion.

Because of the very late stage of the pregnancy, the abortion was a multi-day procedure.  After 4 days, on February 7, she was taken to a hospital emergency room early in the morning...and died.

Michael Martelli, a 40 Days for Life leader who serves as director of the Maryland Coalition for Life, is calling on the state to close the abortion center and to suspend or revoke Carhart’s medical license. For now, the business remains open.

Maryland’s chief medical officer and the local police are investigating Jennifer’s death, at the same time when Maryland’s attorney general has just launched a criminal investigation of Carhart on an unrelated matter.

David Bereit, 40 Days for Life’s national director, attended the 40 Days for Life kickoff event in Germantown last fall — and met a baby who had been spared from abortion at Carhart’s facility.

The mother had showed up for her abortion appointment, but the building was not yet open. As people prayed on the sidewalk as part of 40 Days for Life, one of the volunteers asked the woman if she needed help. They directed her to the pro-life pregnancy resource center across the street, where she was told about the many support services available and encouraged to keep her baby.

And, not too far from Germantown, a Washington, DC pastor has initiated a prayer effort to coincide with Lent.  Mark Batterson, Senior Pastor of National Community Church, is the author of a book called, The Circle Maker, and according to the Christian Post, the Circle Maker prayer challenge is a 40 day emphasis on calling out to God.   Batterson says,

Prayer is much like a contract...Those who pray in the will of God and for His glory are creating binding contracts backed by Jesus Christ. It is as if God co-signs the contract, and when people pray together it is as if they are notarizing each other's prayers.

This is an initiative that can help call attention to the importance of prayer in our lives.  There are a variety of resources that can help facilitate spiritual growth during this season.  For instance, YouVersion.com has a Bible reading plan for Lent.   We can take advantage of this special time period to reflect and revitalize our walk with Jesus Christ.

2 - House passes bill allowing FEMA aid to churches affected by Superstorm Sandy

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill on Wednesday that would allow houses of worship to receive federal aid for damage resulting from Superstorm Sandy, as well as future disasters.

According to the Christian Post, the "Federal Disaster Assistance Nonprofit Fairness Act" was passed under suspension of the rules, which meant it needed a two-thirds vote for passage.  It easily met that threshold with 354 members voting in favor and only 72 voting against the bill. The bill will have to be passed in the Senate and signed by the president for it to become law.

The issue came to light after Hurricane Sandy.  Houses of worship were unable to receive the same federal assistance from FEMA as other non-profits who also were aiding victims after disaster.


Americans United for the Separation of Church and State had opposed the bill.  Spokesperson Vanessa Wolbrink wrote that, "Such funding would entangle religion and government by forcing taxpayers to fund religion with which they may not agree, violating the separation of church and state."

Rep. Chris Smith of New Jersey contends that FEMA's policy is discriminatory:  "It's about those who helped feed, comfort, clothe and shelter tens of thousands of victims now being told they are ineligible for a FEMA grant. It is unconscionable that foundational pillars of our communities damaged by Sandy – synagogues, churches, mosques, temples and other houses of worship – have been categorically denied access to these otherwise generally-available relief funds. Current FEMA policy is patently unfair, unjustified and discriminatory and may even suggest hostility to religion."   It is hoped that such a strong sentiment on behalf of these houses of worship as expressed in the House vote will carry over to the Senate, as it takes up this bill.

1 - Pope Benedict announces resignation

It was a major piece of news that came unexpectedly and brought immediate, widespread response on Monday - the news that Pope Benedict XVI, who had served in that position since 2005, was resigning effective the end of February.   At the time of the announcement from the Vatican, the Pope was quoted as saying:

After having repeatedly examined my conscience before God, I have come to the certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are no longer suited to an adequate exercise of the Petrine ministry.   I am well aware that this ministry, due to its essential spiritual nature, must be carried out not only with words and deeds, but no less with prayer and suffering. However, in today’s world, subject to so many rapid changes and shaken by questions of deep relevance for the life of faith, in order to govern the bark of Saint Peter and proclaim the Gospel, both strength of mind and body are necessary, strength which in the last few months, has deteriorated in me to the extent that I have had to recognize my incapacity to adequately fulfill the ministry entrusted to me.

According to UPI.com, on Sunday, the Pope appeared at his study window overlooking St. Peter's Square at 11 local time - during the appearance, Benedict urged followers to "renew" and "refocus" on God.
"The church calls on all its members to renew themselves ... which constitutes a fight, a spiritual battle, because the evil spirit wants us to deviate from the road towards God," he said.

At mid-week, the Pope presided over the traditional Ash Wednesday ritual.

Gregory Erlandson, president of Our Sunday Visitor Publishing, publisher of many of the pope’s books, shared some comments on the osv.com website.  He said that Pope Benedict...

...continued and made a centerpiece of his pontificate the New Evangelization first proclaimed by John Paul II. He saw clearly that the Church itself needed to be reinvigorated and renewed, and it was in this spirit that he assembled the recent synod of bishops in October.

He also wrote:

At the same time, he has been a great theologian pope, and he had his own agenda. During his eight-year pontificate, he used the Chair of Peter as a pulpit from which to address the challenges and the hopes of modern society. His three encyclicals, "God is Love," "In Hope We Are Saved" and "Charity in Truth," all spoke to his concerns, and revealed both a solicitude for modern men and women in the midst of immense cultural transformation and an unshakable faith that our hope remained always and essentially in Christ.

The resignation of the Pope is important to all Christians, according to John Stonestreet on Friday's Breakpoint commentary:

...If nothing else, the Catholic Church provides people with a Christian ideal to oppose. Or, to put it in biblical language, the Catholic Church, when it’s at its best, serves as a “sign of contradiction” to the dominant worldviews of our age.

As Russell Moore, a Baptist theologian, wrote in First Things, Benedict “stood against the nihilism that defines human worth in terms of power and usefulness.” He did this in his defense of then unborn and elderly life as well as marriage. And he did this by opposing the sexual revolution, religious persecution, and torture of prisoners...

Chuck Colson would have agreed with that assessment. And while Evangelicals share these concerns, we often tend to see them as a series of disconnected battles. We’ve missed something that connected them and provided a comprehensive alternative to the nihilism Moore mentions.

That “something” is the belief that human beings are created in the image of God. The culture-wide “dehumanization” that Benedict and his predecessor opposed is, at root, a rejection of God Himself. By putting this rejection in its proper context, we can not only oppose its demonic consequences but offer a life-affirming alternative vision of what it means to be human.

What's next?  There will be a conclave of cardinals that will take place soon after the resignation of Pope Benedict becomes effective.  It is anticipated that a new Pope could be in place in order to perform Mass on Easter Sunday, which is on March 31.

The 3 - February 10, 2013

This week's edition of "The 3", my week-in-review feature, includes a "he said, she said" scenario between a major northern university and a Christian club that claims that it was removed from campus.   Also, the ongoing saga of the Boy Scouts' reconsideration of their long-standing beliefs concerning gays in leadership and membership had another significant step this week.  The top story, from this year's National Prayer Breakfast, involves a well-known neurosurgeon that commented on health care, among other things, sharing a stage with President Obama.

3 - University of Michigan reinstates booted Christian club - well, maybe

The ongoing story regarding the standing of Christian clubs on a university campus yielded another chapter this week, as the University of Michigan had informed the Asian InterVarsity Chrisitan Fellowship that it had slightly revised a policy that would have forced the club to relocate off campus.

Here's the backstory: according to a Religion Today piece, members of AICF were summoned last December before university officials, who told them there was an issue with the section of their club constitution related to leadership.  In order for students to be InterVarsity leaders, they must sign a statement of faith, but the university said that requirement violated its nondiscrimination policy.  

InterVarsity member Sara Chang said the group was given the option of submitting a revised constitution, but she and the other students decided to stand firm in their faith.  As a result, the club says that the university de-recognized the group -- forcing them to relocate off campus.  But, the University is saying that the  chapter did not complete its annual re-registration process by the Sept. 30 deadline, a requirement of all student organizations.  Greg Jao, an InterVarsity national field director, called the university's claim "factually inaccurate," saying the group had not submitted its constitution because the university would not recognize it.

Jao told CitizenLink that the school e-mailed the group Monday with news of an “exception” to the policy for religious organizations.   He said that while the change is encouraging, it is not enough.  Jao related that,  “They have said that the exception affords us no protection if someone complains against the rule...”  Jao said, "This leaves tremendously big hole” in the policy.

AICF will meet with school officials next week to ask for more protection in the revised policy, Jao said.


This is not an unusual scenario - universities, both public and private, have attempted to force Christian organizations to comply with "non-discrimination" or "all-comers" policies.   Because state universities are governmental entities, the organizations have more of a recourse than at a private school, where the respective boards can set their own policies for Christian groups.   But, in attempting to force religious organizations to allow leaders and members that do not reflect their values, it places these groups in an unenviable position and shows the universities to be less-than-respectful of the religious liberties of the members of these various organizations.

2 - Scouts delay decision on gay leaders and members

It was last week's #2 story, and the consideration by the Boy Scouts of America about revising their membership and leadership policies to include gay scoutmasters and scouts continues to generate response and make news.   It was anticipated that the national board of the Scouts would make a decision this week, but instead it decided to "kick the can down the road" - opening the potential policy change up to its national council.

According to the Family Research Council, one of the leading voices encouraging people of faith to get involved in contacting the BSA board and expressing concern about this possible change, the Scout leadership has stated:  "In the past two weeks, Scouting has received an outpouring of feedback from the American public. After careful consideration and extensive dialogue within the Scouting family, along with comments from those outside the organization, the volunteer officers of the Boy Scouts of America's National Executive Board concluded that due to the complexity of this issue, the organization needs time for a more deliberate review of its membership policy."

FRC goes on to say that:

Fortunately for the millions of active Scouts, the BSA intends to involve a much larger group of true stakeholders in its decision. "The roughly 1,400 voting members of the national council will take action on the resolution at the national meeting in May 2013," the organization said. That's welcome news for parents and local councils, who were reluctant to leave the policy's fate in the hands of corporate executives with political ties that run counter to the time-honored values of the Scouts. Although the road to May will be a rocky one, the decision now rests where it belongs: with the people who best appreciate the risks--and the Scouts' longstanding principles.

Christian organizations will no doubt be diligent in encouraging individuals, families, and the numerous churches which host Scout troops, to share their opinion on this critical matter.   For over 100 years, the Scout organization has upheld Christian values, encouraging "duty to God" and moral behavior.    Under intense pressure, the organization is making what many feel is an ill-advised and unnecessary consideration.

1 - National Prayer Breakfast features renowned neurosurgeon

Each year, the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington is an event that brings together people of power connected to the nation's capital, and the President of the United States is one of the two speakers.  The other speaker, the keynote, is someone who has demonstrated an ability to communicate and apply faith to his or her endeavors.  The overall event is designed to place a spiritual emphasis related to activities in Washington.  Although the past speaker list has not been exclusively Christian, the last 3 speakers have been identified with evangelical Christianity - filmmaker Randall Wallace in 2011, Eric Metaxas last year, and this year, a return engagement with famed pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson of Johns Hopkins University.

This was Carson's second address to the gathering.  His first was in 1997, in the presence of then-President Bill Clinton.   If you're familiar with Carson, you expect him to be direct, compassionate, and outspoken.   And, in the presence of President Obama, whose key accomplishment in his 4+ years in office has been the burgeoning health care law, Dr. Carson made some choice comments about...health care.

According to the Drudge Report, he said:

Here's my solution: When a person is born, give him a birth certificate, an electronic medical record, and a health savings account to which money can be contributed -- pretax -- from the time you're born 'til the time you die. When you die, you can pass it on to your family members, so that when you're 85 years old and you got six diseases, you're not trying to spend up everything. You're happy to pass it on and there's nobody talking about death panels.

On debt, according to the Heritage Foundation's blog, The Foundry, Carson said:

“One of our big problems right now is our deficit,” Dr. Carson states. “Our national debt, 16 and a half trillion dollars—you think that’s not a lot of money? Counting one number per second, you know how long it would take to count to one trillion—507,000 years.”

Dr. Carson continued:

I don’t like to bring up problems without coming up with solutions… What about our taxation system? It is so complex, there is no one who can possibly comply with every jot and tittle. That doesn’t make any sense. 

What we need to do is come up with something that’s simple. The inherently fair principle is proportionality: you make 10 billion dollars, you put in a billion. You make 10 dollars, you put in one. Of course, you have to get rid of the loopholes.

Some people say, ‘That’s not fair! It’s doesn’t hurt the guy who made 10 billion dollars.’ Where does it say you have to hurt that guy? He just put a billion dollars into the pot!

And, The Blaze cites this daring line:

“When I pick up my Bible, you know what I see? I see the fairest individual in the universe — God — and he’s given us a system. It’s called tithe.”

While Dr. Carson may not have the persuaded the President to see things from his perspective, what he has done is elevate the national discussion about debt, the deficit, health care, and more.  The coverage of this event has been extensive, and when you recognize Dr. Carson's deeply held Christian beliefs, you see that his approach and demeanor reflect the principles and character of Christ.

The 3 - February 3, 2013

This week's edition of "The 3", my week-in-review feature, includes new developments concerning the government mandate that all employers, regardless of religious objections, provide free contraception and abortion-inducing drugs to their employees.   Also, the Boy Scouts' announcement that their leadership  could be deciding about whether or not to allow local troops to permit gay leaders and members has generated strong response from the Christian community.   The top story: the top football game of the year and elements of faith related to it.

3 - Administration releases HHS mandate exemption policy; Christian legal groups not impressed

Late last week, the Department of Health and Human Services, which has even stated in court that it was planning some sort of religious exemption to its mandate that employers provide free contraception and abortion-inducing drugs in their health care plans, issued a small change in its policy.   Over 130 plaintiffs have filed over 40 lawsuits, and according to a CitizenLink report, the Obama Administration has won in only 4 cases where a temporary exemption has been applied for - those filing suit have won at least 10 temporary injunctions from the mandate. 

Alliance Defending Freedom had two court victories last week - The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit issued a preliminary injunction on Wednesday that blocks enforcement of the Administration’s abortion pill mandate against family-run Grote Industries, an Indiana-based vehicle lighting manufacturer.  And, on Friday, the the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit issued a temporary injunction that blocks enforcement of the mandate against a Minnesota family-run business in Annex Medical vs. Sebelius.  

On Friday, the "new" HHS proposal, according to CitizenLink, explains how “religious” employers like universities and hospitals can receive an accommodation from the mandate based on religious grounds. These employers could opt out of the mandate, which would mean their employees would receive separate contraceptive coverage with no co-pays, but supposedly at no cost to the religious organization.

This is essentially the same proposal that President Obama offered in a speech a year ago. It was highly criticized by opponents of the mandate as nothing more than an “accounting gimmick” to obscure genuine conscience violations.

And the proposal does nothing to protect Christian for-profit business owners.

“The president gave absolutely no relief from the mandate to families who want to earn a living in business and don’t want to violate their faith under a government order,” said Matt Bowman, senior legal counsel at Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF). “Instead the government is picking and choosing who can exercise religion.”

In a press release, the Christian Medical Association's CEO, David Stevens, is quoted as saying:  "This latest version of the contraceptives and sterilization mandate remains unacceptable. Since when does the government get to pick and choose which groups will get to enjoy First Amendment protections? Our founders intended the First Amendment to protect every American's freedom to act according to one's conscience. They didn't specify that only groups deemed religious will be afforded this protection; freedom of conscience applies equally to all Americans."

So, Administration officials are appearing that they are trying to try to appease some faith-based groups without actually backing down from their commitment to provide these objectionable drugs.   And, with the court success so far, it appears that there continues to be momentum in favor of plaintiffs who are fighting for their rights of conscience.


2 - Boy Scouts consider changing policy to allow gay members and leaders

The Boy Scouts of America have been under intense pressure to remove a prohibition on gay membership, as well as homosexuals serving in leadership, a policy that was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court.  The BSA has now indicated the policy might change - this week, the BSA released a statement saying that, “Currently, the BSA is discussing potentially removing the national membership restriction regarding sexual orientation. This would mean there would no longer be any national policy regarding sexual orientation, and the chartered organizations that oversee and deliver Scouting would accept membership and select leaders consistent with each organization’s mission, principles, or religious beliefs.”  The national board of the Boy Scouts will make a decision on this policy at a meeting in Dallas next week.

According to a report by Warren Smith of WORLD News Group, who has a longtime association with scouting:

The BSA celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2010. It has long excluded both homosexuals and atheists because the Scout Oath requires both “duty to God” and that a Scout keep himself “physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.” The BSA’s position has made it a target of both atheist and pro-homosexual groups. In recent years, pro-homosexual groups have also brought pressure on corporations that support the Boy Scouts with matching gift programs and other financial support. In recent months, UPS, Intel, and Merck announced they would no longer support the organization. 

Christian leaders were swift to speak up about this proposed change, and the phone lines at Boy Scout national  headquarters were jammed.   The Family Research Council went as far as to publish the contact information for board members for the BSA.   FRC said: 

The BSA national leadership were not prepared for the thousands of Americans who were shocked to hear that an organization that could always be counted on for standing for what's right was about to cave-in to homosexual activists and corporations which have been threatening the organization's funding.

For generations, the BSA has shaped our nation's moral character by teaching young men to do their duty to God and country.

According to Baptist Press, leaders of the Southern Baptist Convention, which serve a hosts for numerous Scout troops across the country, were likewise outspoken...

Executive Committee head Frank Page:  "I believe this will be a death blow to Scouting.... I think this is a self-inflicted wound."

In a Jan. 30 column for Baptist Press, Page called for Southern Baptists to pray Sunday, Feb. 3, the established date for Scout Sunday, for the BSA board to defeat the recommendation.

"Focused prayer on Sunday; board meeting on Monday," Page wrote. "What a divine moment!"

Richard Land:  "[W]ith the admission of homosexual Scout leaders, the BSA would place men, who by their own definition are sexually attracted to men, in close, supervisory proximity to teenage boys, which invites real human tragedies. We are not saying homosexuals are pedophiles," Land wrote. "However, how many parents would send their teenage daughters on camping trips with heterosexual male troop leaders? They would not -- not because they believe that such heterosexual men are pedophiles, but because they realize that under such close, supervisory care of men who by definition are attracted to women, human tragedies could, and inevitably would, occur."

So, as the national board opens up its annual meeting this week in Dallas, it could be a very pivotal moment for the Scouting movement, as they face the possibility of redefining their values in a manner that contradicts their moral viewpoint of the past 100 years because of cultural - and corporate - pressure.


1 - Faith on display at the Super Bowl 

Before the 49ers and the Ravens squared off for Super Bowl XLVII in New Orleans, there was already an established pattern of faith-related events and statements of Christian devotion by those involved in the game.


On Friday morning, the annual Athletes in Action Super Bowl Breakfast featured the Bart Starr Award being given to Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten.   Witten was named the award winner over fellow finalists Matt Hasselbeck and Justin Tuck.  According to the Christian Post, Witten's SCORE Foundation has funded several building projects in Texas and his home state of Tennessee, and has launched a number of different outreach programs. One program, SCOREkeepers, combats the cycle of domestic violence by placing male mentors in Texas battered women's shelters so the children living in those shelters can have a positive male influence on their lives.   Witten was also named the NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Award winner during the weekend.

Meanwhile, gospel music was another element of the Super Bowl festivities, as the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration on Friday night was a featured event.   According to report at Examiner.com, it was held at the arena at the University of New Orleans, and musical artists included Donnie McClurkin, Pastor Marvin Winans, Myron Butler, and Lecrae.   The popular NFL Players Choir, made up of current and former players, also performed.   The celebration was hosted by "The View" co-host Sherri Shephred and Grammy winner Kirk Franklin.

Ray Lewis of the Baltimore Ravens received The Lifetime of Inspiration Award for his faith-filled determination to overcome trials and tribulations on and off the field, as well as his remarkable football career. This is only the second time the award has been given.  Tony Dungy, who was featured in FamilyLife's "Stepping Up Super Saturday" event for men at some 1000 churches across America, was the previous winner.

And, as the Christian Post reports, a Christian advocacy group against the commercial sex trade and human trafficking has launched a social media campaign to coincide with the millions of people who will be interacting online during this Sunday's Super Bowl in New Orleans.

Shared Hope International says that, in 2012, there were 12.2 million Super Bowl related posts on social networking websites during and after the game. "As a matter of fact, the halftime show alone garnered 862,000 comments," officials stated.

The organization said that these types of large numbers related to the game means there is "a chance for us together to get in the game and create awareness for the fight against human trafficking, through online advocacy."

Justin Holcomb of Mars Hill Church, writing in the Post, points out that The Super Bowl and other large sporting events like the Olympics and the World Cup are increasingly being recognized as magnets for sex trafficking and sex trafficking and child prostitution. The 2010 Super Bowl saw an estimated 10,000 sex workers brought into Miami, while the 2011 event resulted in 133 prostitution-related arrests in Dallas.

Of course, there are the players themselves, from Ray Lewis on the Ravens, who has admitted the error of his past choices and affirmed his faith in the Lord, to Colin Kaepernick, who has Scripture incorporated into his multiple tattoos.  And, I came across a blog called, "Prayers and Apples", which has a list of faith statements and perspectives from some of the players in the Super Bowl, compiled by writer, Jessica Walters.

Sports Spectrum offered an outreach tool called, "Power to Win 2013", featuring the stories of 3 Super Bowl Champions from the New York Giants: Chase Blackburn, Chris Canty, and Justin Tuck. The DVD was available for Super Bowl ministry events.

There is a strong faith element to major sporting events, and these different intersections of faith with sports can be platforms that God can use in order that He can be exalted and give His people opportunities to share truth.