Euphony and Cacophony

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Cacophony and euphony are words that derive from the Greek language.  The former means bad sound; the latter means good sound.  Our environment is full of bad sounds–an indication that nihilism has made deep inroads into our consciousness.  The music combines harsh sounds with harsh words.  It fills the air…
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Power and Truth, II

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The promotion of truth is of the greatest importance.  Lies, deceptions, stratagems, duplicity, and a host of other impediments to the Good are to be rejected by those who would follow Christ.  It is true that such a devotion could lead one into suffering.  We possess the basic human instinct…
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Power and Truth

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One can not fight at the same time for both power and truth.  Is this true?  In politics,  fighting for the truth may cause one to lose an election.  One must stand with what will promote victory against an opponent whether true or not.  We have heard many lies during…
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Proper Format for a Debate

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The topic of apology can be a subject of debate.  If one is planning such a thing, one needs to be aware that certain rules apply.  A well-planned debate prevents participants’ talking over one another or yelling at one another. Gentleness and respect should guide the meeting.  Below is an…
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Self-Compassion, Can you believe it?

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The other day I was having a bagel at the local bagel shop. It was morning, so the news was on the TV.  A report was made that used the word self-compassion.  Now I think to myself, “I couldn’t have been awake.” Unfortunately, I was not dreaming.  I was awake!…
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Natural Science and Religion

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Natural science has become imperialistic in its attitude toward religion.  Some scientists have self-designated themselves as theologians without saying so to the public.  They’re under the false impression that science has superseded religion, when, in fact,  Christian reflection is needed more than ever.  We have come to the point of…
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In the Ruins of Rome

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The city of Rome and many places in Italy are replete with the ruins of ancient Latin civilization.  Though I have not been in Rome, I have seen a section of the old Roman wall of London, a Mithraic temple in the same city,  and a redoubt built by Roman…
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Baptismal Identity

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We return to I Peter where we began several years ago with this blog project.  In Peter’s first letter we find baptismal language that expresses our Christian identity.  In Chapter Three, the apostle appeals to readers to be zealous for the good; and thus, if one suffers, it should be…
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A Course in Apologetics and Witness

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What follows is an outline of a course on apologetics and witness to be taught in a small group or Sunday School class.  The items under each category are articles having been written during the existence of the project.  The format would be a review of the articles, questions and…
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Vexilla Regis–The Royal Banner

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Venantius Fortunatus (570-609)  wrote the hymn quoted below.  I will comment on each verse.  The English translation used here can be found in the Lutheran Book of Worship. Vexilla Regis prodeunt; fulget Crucis mysterium, quo carne carnis conditor suspensus est patibulo. The royal banners forward go; The cross shines forth in…
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