In the early 20th century, when Italy was trying to pass for a second string Imperial power, it decided to invade Ethiopia. While no doubt, Britain, Germany, or France could’ve accomplished so pusillanimous a goal, Dante’s descendants could not, and were eventually driven back. In short, when the Ethiopian Emperor (and alleged Black Christ, see: Rastafarianism) and his forces … [Read more...]
St. Augustine the Monergist on Grace and Free Will
So what's Monergism anyway? According to my alma mater (wikipedia): "Monergism describes the position in Christian theology of those who believe that God, through the Holy Spirit, works to bring about effectually the salvation of individuals through spiritual regeneration without cooperation from the individual." This post will contend that the gracious doctor taught … [Read more...]
Mormons, Mennonites, Roman Catholics and the IKEA Gospel of Fairness
"With repentance we can steadily improve in our capacity to live the celestial law, for we recognize that “he who is not able to abide the law of a celestial kingdom cannot abide a celestial glory” (D&C 88:22)." (Mormon) "Salvation is variously expressed, sometimes as 'justification by faith', in which case it means that the just person has accepted the offer of a … [Read more...]
Devotion to Christ the Worker
While studying Christian Socialism in England for my Master's paper, I found an interesting devotion that was spoken of amidst the working class and the defenders of the worker. One Christian Socialist wrote during the First World War: "Your scented and curled and comfortable little god on a nicely gilt crucifix is not the God of butchered soldiers and broken women and … [Read more...]
Ex'rcist Meal Time: What Can One Prayer Accomplish?
I've jokingly titled this post 'Ex'rcist Meal Time" because of the popular program (Epic Meal Time). Growing up in an Evangelical family the old German (Lutheran) meal time prayer 'Come Lord Jesus, be our guest, let this food to us be blessed, Amen'. It was the closest we got to liturgy. Whenever I heard it later in life I thought of it as a mindless and childish substitute … [Read more...]