The Shack has been referred to both as one of the greatest Christian books of all time, and as the “greatest deception foisted on the church in the last 200 years.” At first, that profound disagreement may not make sense. But, in an increasingly polarized society and Church, this sharp division and disconnect actually makes perfect sense. Let's examine why this is, and what we can and should do about it. There have been many helpful reviews and critiques of The Shack (see links at the end). Continue Reading
Full of Grace and Truth
The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 The Word became flesh. This is the Christmas story. The Gospel. As we take time to celebrate and enjoy the blessings of this time of year, let’s not forget to reflect upon and remember what Christmas means: that the God of the universe “became flesh” in order to reconcile us to Himself. Reconciliation--with each Continue Reading
Marriage Book Available
Mark's book, Marriage For The Wise: Practical Biblical Wisdom For Marriages is now available for ordering online. An in-depth, interactive study and workbook, Marriage For The Wise is a comprehensive marriage and pre-marital resource, and is one of the main tools used in Hope For Life's marriage counseling, classes, and conferences. Unity, communication, marital roles, conflict, and parenting are just a few of the topics covered in this practical biblical handbook. An excellent resource Continue Reading
True Love or Manipulation? A Critique of the Best-Selling Book Love & Respect
True love. What is it? How do we define it? Is there a difference between what the world says love is and what Scripture says? First Corinthians 13, arguably the most well-known definition of love in the Bible, gives us a straightforward list of what love--real love--looks like. And right in the middle of this list, we are told that one of the earmarks of true love is that it is "not self-seeking." Would it surprise you then to learn that one of the most popular and best-selling books Continue Reading