What They're Saying 06.08.11

This week, Theistic Evolution (TE) became a mainstream discussion topic; Tim Keller, Christianity Today, and Scot McKnight all wrote about Genesis 1 and evolution. Are they compatible? Are they not?

"In late 2007, Collins launched the San Diego-based BioLogos Foundation to promote theistic evolution, especially among evangelicals. He sought not only to embrace what he considers to be the best evidence, but also to bolster Christian credibility among people who are knowledgeable about mainstream scientific thinking. This initiative has won endorsements from both scientists and prominent evangelical figures."

Mere-O's Andrew Walker offers a conservative Christian take on social justice.

"My identity as a father is part of a “social justice” institution. My role as a father will play a vital role in the stability of my daughter’s future. Assuring her of care, love, and provision is not a program that the government can solidify, but it can protect it and uphold the primacy of fathers. Fatherhood and other institutions like it—churchmanship, statesmanship, and civic leadership—are of significance and consequence to the pursuit of a just society. This also isn’t just a conservative position—it’s a biblical position."

Ever the conversation-starter, Scot McKnight brings up the topic of polygamy. This is especially important for Canadians; Canada's B.C. court may soon legalize polygamy.

"It is not just that the OT has some 'famous biblical polygamists,' people who are used by polygamists as support for their polygamy (because they think the Bible is authoritative), but there are laws that assume polygamy. It won’t do, then, just to say “those polygamists were wrong.” It’s one thing to have a bad example in a story; it’s another to have laws that seemingly underwrite or at least assume polygamy. So, we’ve got Deuteronomy 21:15-17."

Jeff Robinson talks up Southern Baptist Theological Seminary's new book, A Guide to Biblical Manhood. I'm interested in taking a look at it myself.

"Every day, men hide behind computer screens or pleasure pursuits instead of engaging. We need men with consistent character: integrity, courage, perseverance and a willingness to sacrifice and lead for the greater good. We need men of God."

Walter Lieber (a Messianic Jew) gives reasons for why the Jewish community should reject Jews for Jesus. In spite of some questionable methods, though, I think JFJ has done a lot of important work among the Jewish people.

"Many, if not most believers in Messianic Jewish congregations worldwide, at least those I have come into contact with, wish JFJ would just go away. A few good conversion stories make great fund raising lines for newsletters, but at what overall cost? If the net effect is negative, why continue? The effect is so deleterious that the number one obstacle to overcome when sharing Yeshua with Jewish people today is explaining that 'No, we are not Jews for Jesus.'"