Denison Forum

Christian cultural commentator David French published an article yesterday in which he wrote: “The longer I live the more convinced I am that our Christian political ethic is upside down." Dr. Tim Keller agrees.

By my Cuban friend’s logic, if Christians are not blessing the world, how can God bless our nation? If he cannot, how long can a holy God delay his judgment on America? I am not attempting to predict his timetable (Matthew 24:36), but we must not presume on his grace (2 Peter 3:9-10).

Let us embrace this day with conviction and courage. Let us see the cultural challenges we face as opportunities to serve Jesus faithfully. Let us remember that the highest price we may one day pay for our faith is worth its cost and so much more.

In contrast to American individualism and consumeristic autonomy, we are exploring this week the biblical mandate, “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). This countercultural command transforms us from consumers into worshipers and from voters into disciples. It calls us to ask of everything we think, say, and do, not “How will this benefit me?” but “How will this glorify God?”

We are exploring this week the biblical mandate, “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). “Whatever you do” applies even to those times when we have nothing to “eat or drink.” In those moments, if we turn to our Father in the knowledge that we have nowhere else to turn, we find that “God is able to make all grace abound to you” (2 Corinthians 9:8). 

I plan to say more tomorrow about living for God’s glory. For today, let’s close with advice from the Roman Stoic philosopher Seneca (4 BC–AD 65): “Adopt once and for all some single rule to live by, and make your whole life conform to it.” What “single rule” will you live by today?

Since the search of Mr. Trump's home last Monday, threats against the FBI and the Justice Department have escalated to such a level that some have called for the assassination of federal agents and of Mr. Garland. As one example, an armed man reportedly attempted to breach the Cincinnati FBI office yesterday. When law enforcement officers tried to take him into custody, he raised a gun at them and was fatally shot.

This week, we’ve identified persistence, discernment, and courageous compassion as essential traits for Christians who are making a transforming difference in their culture. Today, let’s add urgency to our list.

The divisiveness of our day represents a strategic opportunity for followers of Christ. In a confused culture that rejects objective truth and is paying the price, you and I are to “shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life” (Philippians 2:15-16). Each of us is to “speak the truth with his neighbor” (Ephesians 4:25) and to “stand firm in the faith” (1 Corinthians 16:13).

In these post-Roe days, pro-life advocates need strategies appropriate to the times. Consider three initiatives in the news.