Yesterday, we chose to share communion together as a church family. This wasn’t something we did lightly because we know that the question of whether or not we can continue with communion is something that churches and pastors have been wrestling with. Whilst I have struggled at times with the at times dismissive language used… Continue reading Sharing Communion During Coronavirus
Category: Church life
Abuse and the church – leaders and members
What should a healthy relationship between church leaders and church members look like? Hebrews 13:17 says: “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of… Continue reading Abuse and the church – leaders and members
Isolation and Communion (conclusion)
Applying to today – can we share communion during the pandemic? So, this is the bit that you’ve been waiting for. What do I think about sharing communion during the Coronavirus Pandemic? Is it okay to do it? Whilst the conclusion is specific to this situation, there may be further implications particularly as we care… Continue reading Isolation and Communion (conclusion)
Isolation and Communion (Part 4)
The Truth and Lies issues (Systematic Theology) We have seen that making wise, godly decisions depends on knowing the truth about God, Creation, Humanity and New Creation. This means rejecting lies about all four areas of doctrine. In this post we will look at some of the doctrinal (Systematic Theology) issues at stake in our… Continue reading Isolation and Communion (Part 4)
Isolation and Communion (Part 3)
The Big Picture – Biblical Theology If we are to make wise, Biblical decisions about communion, then we need the big picture. There are two perspectives on this. Biblical Theology which we will look at in this post is all about seeing how the Biblical story of redemption unfolds and different themes develop within it.… Continue reading Isolation and Communion (Part 3)
Bullying, abuse and the problem of co-dependency
I’ve been writing a few articles in response to #MeToo #ChurchToo and recent high profile cases of abusive church leadership. Here I want to write a little more about abusive relationships and how they form. First of all, two quotes from Hannah, or communities and families worker from our twitter account. “Abusers are difficult to… Continue reading Bullying, abuse and the problem of co-dependency
Isolation and Communion (Part 2)
A Look at the Bible It is important to get back to Scripture and see what is going on when the supper of bread and wine is first shared and what instructions are given. I think this is a useful opportunity, not just to help us make pragmatic decisions about getting through Coronavirus but to… Continue reading Isolation and Communion (Part 2)
False Accusation
At some point, it is likely that as a believer you will face false accusation. One of the Devil’s names, Satan, literally means “the accuser” his aim is to accuse believers to cause them to feel guilt and shame, he is the father of lies and so it is no surprise that his accusations are… Continue reading False Accusation
Isolation and Communion (part 1)
One Cup? The practical questions for us have rumbled on for years. Traditionally our church followed the practice of passing round the bread first and letting people tear off a piece, then we pass round chalices, each person taking a sip before wiping the rim of the cup with a serviette. Sharing in the one… Continue reading Isolation and Communion (part 1)
"I don't want you to panic …. I want you to think."
“I don’t want you to panic, I want you to think.” Those words are striking, they come from a young German activist who has taken an opposing position to Greta Thunberg. I quoted her in my first video chat “Don’t Worry.” Whatever your position on climate change and whether you agree with either view… Continue reading "I don't want you to panic …. I want you to think."