Tag Archives: America

Roots of Evangelical Worship: American Democracy and Camp Meetings

Roots of Evangelical Worship: American Democracy and Camp Meetings

For the past several weeks, I have been tracing what influences formed what today we might call “Evangelical worship,” including German Pietism, American Revival, and the Wesleys. Developments in nineteenth-century America also had considerable influence. The nineteenth century in America was a critical time in its cultural, political, and religious development. The nation was still… Continue Reading

Taking Scripture out of Context to Make a Political Point

Taking Scripture out of Context to Make a Political Point

Politics have always been divisive, and it is always especially sad when Christians allow politics to cause them to behave in un-Christian ways. Yet what is also problematic is when Christians take Scripture out of context in an attempt to defend their political views. I’ll give you two examples, one from the right and one… Continue Reading

The Christian and Patriotism

The Christian and Patriotism

[This essay was originally published on July 8, 2005.] Patriots come in more than one variety. Some patriots honor their nation more than they honor God. That kind of patriotism is arrogant, idolatrous, and immoral. Other patriots, however, are motivated by a sense of gratitude at the patrimony they have received from their homeland. They… Continue Reading