House of St Ananias, Damascus, said to be the place where Ananias baptised Saul who became Paul the Apostle. Creeds should not be forced upon people nor used for leverage in power disputes. Yet they have the potential to do much good. Creeds are public statements of biblical doctrines through which Christians and churches affirm …
A statement of beliefs commonly held by Baptists
When I moved from Queensland to New South Wales in 1998, it took some time for the NSW Baptists to credential me. In Queensland, where I had been engaged in church planting, the denomination moved quickly to accredit me as a minister of religion so that I could be licensed as a marriage celebrant. It was …
Continue reading "A statement of beliefs commonly held by Baptists"
12 tips for better academic reading
By Dr Rod Benson These 12 tips are designed for academic readers, especially theological students, but any reader can use them to improve reading comprehension and efficiency. Choose a regular time to read. Ideally, this should become a daily habit – half an hour, an hour, or whatever you can manage. You’re looking for a …
Seven tips for giving criticism
by Dr Rod Benson One of the best ways to build healthy teams and community groups is to grow positive relationships. Encouragement is always a winner, but there are times when a critical comment is warranted. Here are seven tips for giving criticism, adapted from leadership guru John Maxwell: Clarify your motive. The goal should be to …
Mountains of Scripture (9): unnamed mountains of the Hebrew Bible
Sunset over mountains in Lebanon, to the north of Israel. Advent is upon us, the end of the academic year approaches, and for our final reflection on mountains in the Hebrew Bible I want to take you to a special unnamed place. There are many references to unnamed mountains in Scripture. For example, in Deuteronomy …
Continue reading "Mountains of Scripture (9): unnamed mountains of the Hebrew Bible"
All Told 