John Mark Hicks

Eventually I will move beyond this philosophical and epistemological level to reading the Biblical text and thinking theologically as part of the Stone-Campbell tradition, but it is important to lay some foundations as these considerations will impact what is said down the line.  So, bear with me for another post or two. We are hermeneutical […]

In my previous post I noted that the human condition circumscribes the hermeneutical task in at least two ways: (1) our finitude–we are limited, situated and always in process, and (2) our fallenness–we are narcissistic, egocentric interpreters. Consequently, the hermeneutical process must be soaked in humility and prayer (seeking transformation). Drawing once again on Smith’s analysis […]

Over the next several posts, I will explore some dimensions of theological hermeneutics. I’m not sure where I will go with this or have sufficient time to devote to it, but I would like to lay some foundations as well as process some theological-biblical methodology. I begin with some insights from Christian postmodern philosophy/theology (see my previous post on […]

As an addendum to my series on Calvinism and Arminianism I want to connect this discussion to the conversions of Barton W. Stone and Alexander Campbell.  Both first approached God through the lens of Calvinist theology and preaching.  Neither could find assurance through that preaching because they were not certain of God’s love for them. […]

There has been significant interest over the past decade in a resurgent Calvinism (or Reformed Theology).  Some call it a “New Calvinism” (as per Collin Hansen’s book Young, Restless, Reformed: A Journalist’s Journey with the New Calvinists). The popularity of John Piper as well as the renewal of Calvinism among the Southern Baptists (specifically Southern Baptist Theological […]

Originally prepared for a discussion among faculty, I have used this handout as a point of discussion in several of my graduate classes.  It is a “bare bones” introduction to how Christian theology and postmodern perspectives might intersect or complement each other. It is intended as a discussion starter for my classes; it is not […]

Over the next week I will be separated from technology–cell phones, television, computers–for a renewal retreat where I will specifically journey through my past wounds to seek deeper healing.  Consequently, I will not–of course–be available to respond to any comments and no further posts will appear for the week. I wanted to let you know […]

I have uploaded to my Bible Class page some handouts I designed for a congregational-wide study in their Bible classes. It is entitled Women Serving God. The four lessons cover: (1) creation; (2) women in Israel; (3) women in the ministry of Jesus; and (4) women in the early church.  The intent of the series […]

Divorce may be the most broken experience in the fallen world.  It certainly ranks high if not the highest.  I say this because it is such a reversal of God’s creative intent. God created oneness, shalom and mutuality between male and female in marriage–it is not good for humans to be alone.  Humans are created […]

What image does “doctrine” evoke in your mind? Answers would probably range from meaningless discussions of unfruitful minutia of rationalistic projections by ivory-tower theologians to exciting visions of polemical engagements over distinctive points of doctrine. Both of these exercises could be called “doctrinal,” but both leave a bad taste in the mouth of contemporary Christians […]