How George Whitefield Reshaped a Famous Christmas Carol
George Whitefield is not associated with Christian hymnody, he left his own mark on one of the most famous Christmas carols, penned by his friend and contemporary, Charles Wesley.
If Whitefield had avoided altering the poetry of Charles Wesley, perhaps more English speakers today would recognize the word “welkin,” or perhaps equally as likely, our churches would have passed over this Christmas carol long ago and let it fade into obscurity. We’ll never know, but God be praised for Wesley, Whitefield, and tunesmith Felix... Continue Reading
The History Behind ‘Silent Night’
The lyrics to Silent Night were written by Josef Mohr
“Today, Silent Night is perhaps the most famous Christmas carol in history. It has been translated into most languages, and the Bing Crosby version is the third-bestselling single in history. A rebuilt Silent Night Chapel in Oberndorf is now a cultural landmark (a replica can be found in Frankenmuth, Michigan).” This year, my home has been warmed by... Continue Reading
The Myth of the Pagan Origins of Christmas
Extensive research shows that the December 25th date arose entirely from the efforts of early Latin Christians to determine the historical date of Christ’s death.
Of course, to Christians, it really doesn’t matter that much whether or not they co-opted December 25thfrom the pagans, or vice versa. The Christian faith doesn’t stand or fall on that detail. But it’s nevertheless valuable for all of us to give closer scrutiny to shibboleths—such as that of the pagan origins of Christmas—which are continually repeated... Continue Reading
Disappointing Worship Services
Many people on Sunday drive to church in dread, with a sense that church is going to disappoint
“If you often feel Sunday-morning letdown, consider the expectations you have for your church. What do you expect from the environment? Do you expect it to be well-furnished and ornate with well-executed and culturally relevant music? Beware of ways that our consumer mindset pollutes our attitudes at church.” Some of my favorite memories are... Continue Reading
Scorsese’s ‘Silence’ Asks What It Really Costs to Follow Jesus
Martin Scorsese adapts Shusaku Endo’s acclaimed novel about faith, mission, and suffering
Based on the acclaimed 1966 novel by Japanese Catholic writer Shusaku Endo, Silence is a book about 17th century Jesuit missionaries trying to make inroads for the gospel in the inhospitable “swampland” of Japan, facing intense persecution by a Japanese shogunate determined to wipe out Christianity’s influence in their realm. It’s been 28 years... Continue Reading
When God Changes Your Plans
God is weaving the details of your life into something beautiful, with Jesus at the center
“Isn’t it possible that when God does something unexpected in your life today, it may not mean that he has forgotten you or neglected you? Could it be that he’s working on a better, grander plan that you don’t see yet?” There is an art to writing a résumé, where you find a way... Continue Reading
How The ‘War on Christmas’ Controversy Was Created
There is no evidence of an organized attack on Christmas in the United States
The idea of a “War on Christmas” has turned things like holiday greetings and decorations into potentially divisive political statements. People who believe Christmas is under attack point to inclusive phrases like “Happy Holidays” as (liberal) insults to Christianity. It’s that time of year again, folks. It’s time for the War on Christmas. What... Continue Reading
Is This How Paul Prayed for Nero?
Paul's instructions to Timothy differ from recent prayers involving the president-elect
“Here‘s how Alan Jacobs is praying for everyone in Washington but president-elect Trump: I am praying that people in our government who hold some power power and possess at least a little intelligence will impede Trump, will place enough obstacles in his way that he will be able to do minimal damage to the body... Continue Reading
The Christmas Present in Lot’s Cave
The cave seemed like the perfect hiding place, but soon it became the setting for one of the most heinous scenes in all of the Bible
“When you trace back the lineage of Jesus you come through Lot’s cave. And the stench of sin in that cave is overwhelming; just as the stench of sin throughout the Old Testament is nauseating. However, the long-awaited Son of David was born to bring salvation to the nations. Here is the bouquet of grace!... Continue Reading
Why the Jewish Messiah is the Most Important Individual in History
It’s difficult for a 21st century audience to appreciate the century-long yearning which the Hebrews had for the Messiah’s arrival.
However, he will differ from all other human beings: he will also be God. We know this for a few reasons. First, as mentioned in Micah 5:2Open in Logos Bible Software (if available), his existence has no beginning. That can only be said of an individual who is self-existent and uncreated; who is prior to all created things. The Hebrew Scriptures (and logic) tell us that such a being must be the God and Creator of all things. Second, Isaiah 7:14Open in Logos Bible Software (if available) mentions that he will be known as, “Immanuel,” which means “God with us.” Third, Isaiah’s second prophecy states that he is called, “Mighty God.” It would be blasphemous to call someone, “God,” who was not. Thus, the Jewish Messiah would be both fully human and fully God, making him unequivocally significant in history.