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Showing posts from September 10, 2023

"God Speaks Science" by John Van Sloten. A Review

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  In many circles, it feels like science and religion are in a sweaty jiujitsu match. Tossing, tumbling, vying for dominance. Recently John Van Sloten, a Calgary-based writer, teacher, and pastor, has published a 208-page softback, working with both science and faith. Overall, it is an interesting book with good intentions. Science and faith are not at odds, at their heart. They are the two books of God's revelation, showing us God's attributes in different ways. The author does a nice job working this out, drawing in the help of scientists who believe in God's work, who would claim to be Christians. It is written on a popular level and not with theoretical abstractions. Throughout the work science is understood as unpacking "God's creation words" (12). And Scripture, like a pair of good glasses, sharpens our vision. "When viewed through the lens of the Scriptures, creation becomes a theater of God's glory" (11). This is the theme throughout the ...

Stronghold for the Oppressed - 10 September 2023

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  O LORD you are a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you (Psalm 9:9-10). It is to you we come to voice our praises and focus our prayers. That the needy shall not be forgotten and the hope of the poor shall not perish forever, we give you our praise (Psalm 9:18)! That you have heard us as we cried out to you on behalf of others, and granted them help and hope in the midst of their trials and trouble, we give you praise! That you have watched over our country in the good times and bad; have seen to the affairs of our State; and have looked after the needs and worries of our communities and families, we give you praise! We implore you to maintain your church in all places, including this congregation, Capitol Hill Full Gospel Church, Liberty Gospel Tabernacle, Living Waters Lighthouse, and Living Word Church. Bring unity where there is division; order w...