Category Archives: Theodicy

The Sign of the Savior’s Birth (Luke 2:1-20)

Have you ever thought about how obscene was the power of Caesar Augustus?  The description of Jesus’ birth in the Gospel of Luke begins with a man, the emperor of Rome, decreeing that a census is to be taken of people he has never seen, nor will ever meet.  Luke 2:1-7 reads, “1   In thoseContinue reading “The Sign of the Savior’s Birth (Luke 2:1-20)”

The Gospel of Matthew’s Use of Prophecy to Describe the Messiah (Matthew 1-2)

Prophecy is often only viewed as an indicator or proof of Jesus being the Christ. The unique way Matthew uses prophecy also shows us what it means for Jesus to be the Christ. This study aims to look at the four prophecies that Matthew quotes as a means of understanding the meaning of Jesus’ Birth.

Longing for a Better World and the Meaning of Christmas

The year 2020 has been a year of great pain and distress. In our hurt, we long for a better world. The Christmas season is a reminder that it is into this world of hurt Christ was born and not only shares our heartache, but he also exchanges it with his joy.

A Covid-19 Gravesite

I think I broke the law today, but I am not sure.  A son recently lost his mother, and he asked me to come and speak at her grave today.  The cemetery was in Ohio and thus I am not sure if the stay-at-home order given by Ohio’s governor included me, a pastor, in a cemetery.  Regardless, itContinue reading “A Covid-19 Gravesite”

Near to the Brokenhearted

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ –  As you know, I am not a user of social media.  During this time of social isolation though, I feel that words of theological reflection may be helpful as you seek to make sense of the sickness, the panic, and the world at this time.  My purpose is not toContinue reading “Near to the Brokenhearted”

The Riddle of Suffering and the Goodness of God

If God is good, why does he allow evil and suffering in this world?  That is a question that many have asked and may be asking today.  This is an ancient question that is often referred to as “the problem of evil” or the theological term of “theodicy.”  The question sees a problem or inconsistence with the assumedContinue reading “The Riddle of Suffering and the Goodness of God”