Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# Institute for Faith and Culture

Equipping Christians for this cultural moment

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://institutefc.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Articles](https://institutefc.org/articles/)
- [How Christian Leaders Are Celebrating America's 250th Independence Day](https://institutefc.org/how-christian-leaders-are-celebrating-americas-250th-independence-day/) - Independence Day gives us an opportunity to give thanks, to pray, and to act as Christian citizens—even as we celebrate.
- [The Inner American Revolution](https://institutefc.org/the-inner-american-revolution/) - The Founding Fathers were not wild-eyed revolutionaries but family men, businessmen, and ministers who sought to preserve a social order—a goal we must be mindful of today.
- [10 Things to Know About America's Founding](https://institutefc.org/10-things-to-know-about-americas-founding/) - As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, we must not forget the God factor—which is vital in telling the true story of America.
- [Retired Pastor Clive Johnson, 78, Arrested for Preaching Outside a Hospital in Northern Ireland](https://institutefc.org/retired-pastor-clive-johnson-78-arrested-for-preaching-outside-a-hospital-in-northern-ireland/) - A Northern Ireland arrest for preaching signals increasing hostility toward proclaiming the gospel. Why is this happening and what can Christians do?
- [Stand at the Gates: A Call to Christian Manhood](https://institutefc.org/stand-at-the-gates-a-call-to-christian-manhood/) - Culture distorts manhood today. Some men retreat, while others corrupt their strength. Scripture calls men to protect, cultivate, and lead—not for selfish gain, but for the good of others.
- [The Lie of Living Your Truth](https://institutefc.org/the-lie-of-living-your-truth/) - Your truth or The Truth? Today’s culture calls for bold proclamations in both the church and the public sphere. We must roll up our sleeves and tell the truth.
- [America's Flag Speaks of Our Past and Our Future](https://institutefc.org/americas-flag-speaks-of-our-past-and-our-future/) - Our nation’s flag bears deep symbolism and significance. May we preserve its legacy for America’s tomorrows.
- [Winston Churchill: Mentor for Our Times](https://institutefc.org/winston-churchill-mentor-for-our-times/) - Churchill, a Christian of fierce yet tender faith, can serve as a model for faithful men today.
- [Ben Sasse's Theology of Suffering for a Death-Phobic Culture](https://institutefc.org/ben-sasses-theology-of-suffering-for-a-death-phobic-culture/) - In the shadow of a death sentence measured in months, Sasse’s public witness reveals our need for a theology of suffering that can speak to culture today.
- [Why the Church Must Recover a Theology of Life](https://institutefc.org/why-the-church-must-recover-a-theology-of-life/) - Abortion rates are rising. The church must step up with a lived theology that proclaims a pro-life ethic.
- [Warning: Millennials Deconstructed, Gen Z was Never Discipled in the First Place](https://institutefc.org/warning-millennials-deconstructed-gen-z-was-never-discipled-in-the-first-place/) - It’s long been the worry of the church that young people are walking away from the faith. New data tells a more complicated story that serves as a warning.
- [Understanding the Christian Worldview](https://institutefc.org/understanding-the-christian-worldview/) - The Christian worldview is extraordinary and unique. Although its fundamental truth cannot change, it can be contextualized.
- [A Biblical Perspective on Sound Money](https://institutefc.org/a-biblical-perspective-on-sound-money/) - In recent years, Americans received a crash course in the importance of sound money. But biblical principles can always guide us, even on monetary policy.
- [Man’s Plans vs. God’s Intentions (Part 2)](https://institutefc.org/mans-plans-vs-gods-intentions-part-2/) - Loss of any kind will forever change the course of our lives. Here's how God can use this to lead us in our true calling, for our benefit and his glory.
- [The Puritan Theology That Built America & the Church Abandoned](https://institutefc.org/the-puritan-theology-that-built-america-the-church-abandoned/) - The Puritans applied theology to government, education, law, work, and family, and the United States is still living on borrowed capital from that vision.
- [Man’s Plans vs. God’s Intentions (Part 1)](https://institutefc.org/mans-plans-vs-gods-intentions-part-1/) - Many of us know the pain of being unexpectedly released from a job. God can use these tough moments to develop us and fulfill his ultimate plan for our lives.
- [A Full Biblical Case for Limited Government](https://institutefc.org/a-full-biblical-case-for-limited-government/) - Scripture speaks about limited government and its purpose, role, and authority. Here is an overview of this topic.
- [The ‘Rest of the Story’ Hermeneutic](https://institutefc.org/the-rest-of-the-story-hermeneutic/) - Understanding the “rest of the story” leads us to appreciate the education and preparation that equipped our biblical heroes to rise to their callings.
- [The Fall, Our Identity & Work](https://institutefc.org/the-fall-our-identity-work/) - The book of Genesis has a lot to say about our callings and our work. As people seeking to be faithful to God in our work, how does this relate to us?
- [How the Prosperity Gospel Undermines Human Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/prosperity-gospel-flourishing/) - A 2006 Pew Forum poll of self-identified U.S. Christians* revealed that forty-six percent of respondents agreed with the following statement: God will grant material prosperity to all believers who have enough faith. Amazingly, this is tied for the eighth lowest of ten countries involved in the survey. Only Chile had fewer positive responses than the
- [Three Biblical Examples that Disprove the Prosperity Gospel](https://institutefc.org/disprove-the-prosperity-gospel/) - Is the prosperity gospel biblical? Last week, I introduced the "prosperity gospel"—what it is and why it's harmful. Today, I'd like to address a biblical response to this teaching. In their book, When Helping Hurts, Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert write, At its core, the health-and-wealth gospel teaches that God rewards increasing levels of faith with greater
- [Why the Prosperity Gospel Is So Harmful](https://institutefc.org/prosperity-gospel-harmful/) - One error Christians can make in their understanding of money is to think wealth is inherently sinful, and creating and accruing wealth is contrary to God's plan. In fact, wealth creation and proper stewardship are consistent with human flourishing. A twin error to the disparagement of wealth is the idea that faithfulness to God necessarily
- [Understanding Natural Moral Law & the State](https://institutefc.org/the-natural-moral-law-the-state/) - Many people today don't fully understand Natural Moral Law and the true meaning of tolerance. Here are some key definitions.
- [The World Turned Upside Down](https://institutefc.org/the-world-turned-upside-down/) - How does the reality that Jesus conquered death change the way you think about your own mortality, and the trials and suffering of this present life?
- [What Are Common & Special Grace?](https://institutefc.org/what-are-common-special-grace/) - The Bible talks about God's grace in two distinct ways. The first is what theologians call special grace, and the other is common grace. Let's examine each.
- [A Guilty Culture](https://institutefc.org/a-guilty-culture/) - Our culture today is plagued by unresolved guilt about many things. Forgiveness rooted in the gospel is the only antidote that leads to real freedom.
- [The ‘Lambship’ of the Lord](https://institutefc.org/the-lambship-of-the-lord/) - The good news of Good Friday is that God loves you, and he doesn’t need you to work or sacrifice for him, because the Lamb has already done that for you.
- [The Fed Shouldn’t Be in the Business of Price Controls](https://institutefc.org/the-fed-shouldnt-be-in-the-business-of-price-controls/) - Most Americans may not know that the Federal Reserve wasn’t created to conduct monetary policy, unless they have a special interest in macroeconomics. In fact, the Federal Reserve Act of 1913 doesn’t mention it. Initially, the Fed had one fundamental aim: to rectify repeated waves of financial panics and bank runs. Toward this end, the
- [Five Points to Respond to ‘Love is Love’](https://institutefc.org/five-points-to-respond-to-love-is-love/) - I was speaking to a congregation in Indiana, sharing a bit of my history as a former gay activist who had come to Christ, when a woman seated to my left abruptly stood and shouted, “Love is love! Love is love!” Security ushered her out and I continued without much distraction. But her outburst left
- [The History & Legacy of Influential Black Americans of Faith](https://institutefc.org/the-history-legacy-of-influential-black-americans-of-faith/) - Black History Month is celebrated in February because it marks the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and of the famous abolitionist Frederick Douglass (who never knew the exact day of his birth but chose to celebrate it on February 14). Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation and pressed forward the Thirteenth Amendment, which ended
- [Ten Inspirational Quotes from Kingdom Come 2026](https://institutefc.org/ten-inspirational-quotes-from-kingdom-come-2026/) - Here are a few standout moments that capture the heart of Kingdom Come 2026: The Christian Citizen.
- [Canada’s New Hate Bill & the Future of Religious Liberty](https://institutefc.org/canadas-new-hate-bill-the-future-of-religious-liberty/) - Canada’s House of Commons has advanced a bill to combat hatred, but it actually threatens religious liberty. Here's why every Christian should pay attention.
- [Responding to the Ultimate Gift with Generosity Fit for a King](https://institutefc.org/responding-to-the-ultimate-gift-with-generosity-fit-for-a-king/) - Do you recall any of these popular Christmas gifts of yesteryear? Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (“Cowabunga, Dude!”) Cabbage Patch Kids (Remember the knock-down, drag-out fights between shoppers?) Red Ryder BB Gun (“You’ll shoot your eye out, kid!”) Atari (How about games like Space Invaders and Frogger?) Reflecting with nostalgia on vintage gifts of the past
- [Why the Faith & Work Movement Matters](https://institutefc.org/why-the-faith-work-movement-matters/) - Around a century ago, a renewed pietism and fundamentalism led the evangelical church to make a conscious decision to withdraw from key domains of the public square. In other words, Christians “surrendered” in the realms of politics, education, and the marketplace. The implications of this theological paradigm shift went well beyond these three arenas—the field
- [Rule of Law as the Foundation for a Flourishing Society](https://institutefc.org/rule-of-law-as-the-foundation-for-a-flourishing-society/) - The rule of law, rooted in the source of reality and the creation of the cosmos, provides the necessary foundation for cultivating vibrant human flourishing.
- [How Generosity Influences Our Resurrection Story](https://institutefc.org/how-generosity-influences-our-resurrection-story/) - Let's consider how our money and work might shape us and bless others this Easter season. How could your generosity and leadership make a difference?
- [Christian Influence Requires Civic Virtue](https://institutefc.org/christian-influence-requires-civic-virtue/) - On Memorial Day, the world pauses to recognize sacrifice. But Christians ought to adopt a biblical vision of civic virtue shaped by sacrifice every day.
- [Good Government and Religious Freedom](https://institutefc.org/good-government-and-religious-freedom/) - Read The Center for Christian Statesmanship's position paper: Good Government and Religious Freedom, articulating a biblical view of government
- [America's Judeo-Christian Founding](https://institutefc.org/americas-judeo-christian-founding/) - Despite claims to the contrary, America was founding upon the biblical legal tradition and values. In this position paper, CCS lays out the Christian foundation of America.
- [5 Myths about Christianity and Politics in America](https://institutefc.org/5-myths-about-christianity-and-politics-in-america/) - You hear a lot about Christianity and politics—'America is secular,' 'You can't legislate morality!' Most of it is nonsense. Here's five myths you shouldn't fall for.
- [How God Uses the Church to Help Us Shine](https://institutefc.org/how-god-uses-the-church-to-help-us-shine/) - We are like ugly rocks that God picks out of a stream. Through the Holy Spirit, he transforms us into beautiful stones by placing us in a local church.
- [The Heavenly Ambassador: Living for a Higher King](https://institutefc.org/the-heavenly-ambassador-living-for-a-higher-king/) - Most people think that being a citizen is just about citizenship of a country. However, Christ calls us to a much more important role as citizens of Heaven.
- [Economic Flourishing is Tied to ‘One Nation Always Under God’](https://institutefc.org/economic-flourishing-is-tied-to-one-nation-always-under-god/) - For America to remain great, we need to be one nation always under God. The principles of economic flourishing are rooted in this spiritual truth.
- [Jesus’s Teachings on Ethics Support a Limited View of Government](https://institutefc.org/jesuss-teachings-on-ethics-support-a-limited-view-of-government/) - Jesus's teachings on ethics don't point to big government. Instead, they support individual charity that results in human flourishing.
- [Sphere Sovereignty: Limited Government & Human Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/sphere-sovereignty-limited-government-human-flourishing/) - Dutch Reformed theologian and politician, Abraham Kuyper, believed in sphere sovereignty and limited government. Here's what we can learn from him.
- [Considering the ‘Breastplate of Saint Patrick’](https://institutefc.org/considering-the-breastplate-of-saint-patrick/) - This Saint Patrick’s Day, let’s reflect on the history of this important figure and examine meaningful lyrics from an ancient prayer.
- [New Testament Evidence for Limited Government](https://institutefc.org/new-testament-evidence-for-limited-government/) - The New Testament has a lot to say about citizens and the state. It supports our individual moral responsibility and a limited view of government.
- [What is Love? A Caution Against Talarico’s Faith & Politics](https://institutefc.org/what-is-love-a-caution-against-talaricos-faith-politics/) - Pop star Haddaway asked “What is love?” in a 1993 hit song. While not a theologian, Haddaway poses a question that has long occupied Bible scholars. What is love, and how God relates to it, are foundational issues for Christian living. Christian life includes carefully considering our responsibility as citizens. Political involvement requires a clear,
- [Our Hope for Shalom & the Restoration of All Things](https://institutefc.org/our-hope-for-shalom-the-restoration-of-all-things/) - We have been examining God’s vision of shalom through the lens of the four-chapter gospel. Previous posts have discussed God’s original creative vision for shalom in community, how the Fall distorted that vision, and how redemption gives us a glimpse of what shalom could or should be. Today, we’ll take a look at shalom in
- [White House Celebrates the Faith & Religious Liberty of America’s Founders](https://institutefc.org/white-house-celebrates-the-faith-religious-liberty-of-americas-founders/) - As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, the White House is releasing a series of short educational videos entitled The Story of America, highlighting key ideas and moments from the nation’s founding. One installment in the series focuses on the founders’ understanding of religious liberty and features Dr. Mark David Hall, a professor in
- [Why AI May Lead to More Work, Not Less](https://institutefc.org/why-ai-may-lead-to-more-work-not-less/) - For the past several years, a steady stream of headlines has warned that artificial intelligence will eliminate jobs. Students regularly ask whether entire professions might soon disappear. A decade ago, some experts even advised medical students to avoid radiology because algorithms would soon read medical images faster and more accurately than humans. Yet early evidence
- [The Old Testament Case for Limited Government](https://institutefc.org/the-old-testament-case-for-limited-government/) - In my previous article, we examined the first principle of how to approach Old Testament teaching to see if there is a biblical view of the state. Today, we will discuss the following two principles. Positive & Negative Rights To understand my second principle for discovering biblical teaching about the state, we need to make
- [Socialism Was My Other Faith, But Not Anymore](https://institutefc.org/socialism-was-my-other-faith-but-not-anymore/) - He stood proudly laughing as I retrieved my red flag from a ditch. "Wave it, son!" he encouraged. It remains a vivid recollection of a moment in a life dedicated to revolution. As I leaf through the pages of my father’s CO-INTELPRO file, over fifty years of revolutionary zeal reappear, reminding me of a life
- [Biblical Support for Limited Government](https://institutefc.org/biblical-support-for-limited-government/) - In my previous article, we reviewed the three main worldviews and their relation to big government. This series will interpret how biblical scriptures imply a minimal government, and today’s article will establish a biblical methodology and foundation in favor of limited government. When we come to examine the scriptures to see if there is a
- [Serving Others Through Our Work](https://institutefc.org/serving-others-through-our-work/) - Editor’s note: Russell Gehrlein appeared as a guest on the Embrace Our Calling podcast, hosted by Marcus Mok, on Sunday, January 25. Russell and Marcus discussed several faith and work concepts found in Russell’s book, Immanuel Labor: God’s Presence In Our Profession, and life lessons Russell has learned throughout his career. Below is a partial
- [The Spiritual State of Our Union in 2026](https://institutefc.org/the-spiritual-state-of-our-union-in-2026/) - It is the first decade of the 1800s, and for Christians in America, it is a desperate moment. The promise has not been fulfilled. The nation has not risen to the dream. Though the country was created through a righteous revolution fueled by faith in a sovereign God, the holy fire of those days seems
- [America Needs 'Mere Economics'](https://institutefc.org/america-needs-mere-economics/) - Free market economics. Keynesian economics. Austrian economics. Marxist economics. Conservative economics. There are about as many flavors of economics as there are economists, perhaps more. What Americans need right now, however, is simple, unmodified economics. Mere economics, if you will. Economic History's Greatest Fact Economics has a few bedrock principles that, when we recognize them,
- [How Can We Practice Lent At Work?](https://institutefc.org/how-can-we-practice-lent-at-work/) - “I’m giving up chocolate!” “This year, I’m keeping my cheese and chocolate, but giving up all social media. Goodbye, Facebook friends! See you after Easter.” “No coffee for me for the next forty days!” Honestly, I’m shaking at the very thought of such asceticism, and so are my coworkers. They know the agony of being
- [Christianity Carries a Compelling Vision of Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/christianity-carries-a-compelling-vision-of-flourishing/) - In April 2025, scholars and leaders from a variety of fields gathered at the Gallup World Headquarters in Washington, DC, to discuss “groundbreaking research, actionable insights and innovative strategies for fostering individual and societal wellbeing.” This event, co-sponsored by a number of organizations centered at Harvard and Baylor University, showcased the cross-disciplinary and cross-continent interest
- [Abraham Lincoln & His Covenant with God](https://institutefc.org/abraham-lincoln-his-covenant-with-god/) - It was something that President Lincoln had long hoped to do. He would, if the opportunity came, free the slaves. He did not have the authority to free the slaves in the north; that would have to come later, with an act of Congress. He could, though, issue a wartime proclamation freeing slaves in the
- [Biblical Love & What It Looks Like at Work](https://institutefc.org/biblical-love-what-it-looks-like-at-work/) - Many of us love to work, but we must also learn to demonstrate biblical love through our work. This is the second article in a series on applying the fruit of the Spirit in the workplace, and our topic today is the relationship between love (the first characteristic mentioned in the fruit of the Spirit)
- [Three Questions to Ask When Your Boss Leaves Without Warning](https://institutefc.org/three-questions-to-ask-when-your-boss-leaves-without-warning/) - Suppose you were just informed that a certain supervisor is leaving, and you’re not given any explanation. Maybe it’s not just one person but a handful leaving around the same time. In this uncertain moment, head-scratching quickly turns into fidgeting. Likely, your knee-jerk response is to ask, “What happened?”, “Why?”, and “How will this affect
- [The Divine Thread in Our Careers](https://institutefc.org/the-divine-thread-in-our-careers/) - Editor’s note: Russell Gehrlein appeared as a guest on the Embrace Our Calling podcast, hosted by Marcus Mok, on Sunday, January 25. In parts one and two of this interview, Russell and Marcus discussed several faith and work concepts found in Russell’s book, Immanuel Labor: God’s Presence In Our Profession, and life lessons Russell has
- [Three Worldviews & How They View Government](https://institutefc.org/three-worldviews-how-they-view-government/) - In my previous article, we discussed how Jesus relates to all things from money to sports—and even politics. Today, we're going to review the three main worldviews and their relation to big government. Throughout this series, we will interpret how biblical teachings imply a minimal government with a specific function. Three Current Worldviews In the
- [A Generational Test for America’s 250th](https://institutefc.org/a-generational-test-for-americas-250th/) - Many people think the American story begins with the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, the event we are celebrating the 250th anniversary of this year, but the origin story began long before. The American Revolution grew from the Great Awakening, a revival led largely by remarkably young preachers, which created the moral
- [Lincoln on Reviving Truth in Public Discourse](https://institutefc.org/lincoln-on-reviving-truth-in-public-discourse/) - Let’s be honest at the outset. In our cultural landscape, falsehood and mistrust are ferociously bubbling. In workplaces, churches, political parties, and media outlets, we have become like the proverbial “frog in the kettle.” Swimming in precipitated deception, lies, and crises of integrity, we have all grown dangerously comfortable. Truthfulness truly matters. But regarding our
- [The Creator, Creation & Christ-Centered Culture (Part 2)](https://institutefc.org/the-creator-creation-christ-centered-culture-part-2/) - In my last article, we explored how God reveals his presence through creation as well as through arts and culture. Additionally, we learned that we can use our own creativity to impact our communities for his glory. Now, we will more deeply examine our love for God and how this can shape our world. Saint
- [Making a Biblical Case for Limited Government](https://institutefc.org/making-a-biblical-case-for-limited-government/) - A few years ago on ABC’s The View, Star Parker and Michael Moore had an instructive exchange. To justify state-regulated universal healthcare, Moore sought to marshal support from Jesus: Jesus claimed that if you care for the poorest among us, you do this to him. According to Moore, this proves that Jesus would be for
- [Responding with the Gospel if Your Church is Disrupted by Protestors](https://institutefc.org/responding-with-the-gospel-if-your-church-is-disrupted-by-protestors/) - A worship service at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, was disrupted earlier this month by protesters opposing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). During the Sunday morning service, activists entered the sanctuary, interrupted the preaching, and unfurled protest messages, forcing church leaders to halt worship. Pastor Jonathan Parnell later explained that “a group of agitators
- [Seeing the People Behind Smith’s ‘Invisible Hand’](https://institutefc.org/seeing-the-people-behind-smiths-invisible-hand/) - You’ve probably heard economists speak of the “invisible hand.” This term comes from economist Adam Smith’s famous work, “The Wealth of Nations,” which is also celebrating its 250th birthday this year, along with our country. The term describes the seemingly unguided movement of prices and resources within a free economy. It may seem ephemeral, but
- [The Creator, Creation & Christ-Centered Culture (Part 1)](https://institutefc.org/the-creator-creation-christ-centered-culture-part-1/) - Psalm 119:64 (ESV) declares, “The earth, O Lord, is full of your steadfast love (chesed).” A walk through a forest or in an art museum lets us experience a sampling of God’s steadfast love to his people through his work in creation and his gifts of art and culture. In terms of what we as
- [Seeing People with Divine Wonder](https://institutefc.org/seeing-people-with-divine-wonder/) - Each time I’ve watched Wonder—the movie based on R.J. Palacio’s award-winning novel—I’ve been ambushed by this oh-so-moving story about a young boy named Auggie. Tears stream every time—and I will own them. Born with a genetic disorder, Auggie’s little body requires multiple surgeries. He wears his astronaut helmet because his face is distorted, even after
- [Do We Know How God Leads Us? (Part 2)](https://institutefc.org/do-we-know-how-god-leads-us-part-2/) - In my last article, I explored how God uses his Word and counsel from others to lead us toward our vocational callings. Now, I will share two other ways he guides us in this important area. God Gives Us Wisdom to Make Decisions Biblical wisdom is the ability to make good personal decisions about right
- [Lessons for Unity from Growing Up in the King Family](https://institutefc.org/lessons-for-unity-from-growing-up-in-the-king-family/) - When people hear the name “King,” they often think of speeches and marches. They think of the life of my famous uncle, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., as history, as someone who lived in the past and whose story is preserved in books. But for me, growing up in the King family felt like home.
- [What is the Ultimate Satisfaction of Our Work?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-the-ultimate-satisfaction-of-our-work/) - As we set ambitious New Year’s resolutions for ourselves, we may look back over our calendars and wonder, “What did I accomplish last year? And did it really matter?” Another year of hard work (and for many, workarounds)—not to mention unemployment or illness—can certainly put a dent in one’s vocational enthusiasm. Perhaps work isn’t the
- [History’s Most Remarkable Transformation](https://institutefc.org/historys-most-remarkable-transformation/) - Consider one of history’s most remarkable transformations: In 1800, 90% of humanity lived in subsistence poverty. Today, that figure has flipped, and according to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), 90% of all people have escaped poverty’s grip. While the remaining 10% in poverty is still a global tragedy, we can celebrate an unprecedented and
- [Do We Know How God Leads Us? (Part 1)](https://institutefc.org/do-we-know-how-god-leads-us-part-1/) - I have known for nearly fifty years that God leads his children. The chorus of the classic hymn I often sing to myself goes like this: “He leadeth me, He leadeth me, by His own hand He leadeth me. His faithful follower I would be, for by His hand He leadeth me.” This begs a
- [A Beautiful Picture of a Strong Family Working Together](https://institutefc.org/a-beautiful-picture-of-a-strong-family-working-together/) - On a beautiful Saturday in June a few years ago, my three siblings and I held a party for my parents to celebrate their sixty seventh wedding anniversary and my dad’s ninetieth birthday. For days afterward, Mom and Dad basked in the afterglow of having happily engaged with dozens of grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who
- [Jesus Makes All Things New, One Habit at a Time](https://institutefc.org/jesus-makes-all-things-new-one-habit-at-a-time/) - A new year brings with it hope. Something stirs within us as the calendar resets, as though the simple act of naming a new year might open space for something new within us. We feel the pull of possibility. Yet our hope can be tinged with some skepticism. Memory tempers our hope. We have crossed
- [What Is ‘This Cultural Moment?’](https://institutefc.org/what-is-this-cultural-moment-2/) - One of the things I’ve observed that is almost always missing in the Christian worldview is a sense of time. This starkly contrasts the biblical worldview, which is filled with numerous references to time, history, and generations. For example, we are reminded of King David’s men, who were skilled in reading the signs of the
- [IFWE’s Top Ten Blogs for 2025](https://institutefc.org/ifwes-top-ten-blogs-for-2025/) - As we close out one year and look ahead to 2026, it’s our annual practice to reflect on what shaped our conversations over the past twelve months. This past year, IFWE’s blog reached readers in every corner of the world. These articles highlight the issues that mattered most to our readers and the ways in
- [Four Tips for Making Godly Resolutions Regarding Your Wealth in 2026](https://institutefc.org/four-tips-for-making-godly-resolutions-regarding-your-wealth-in-2026/) - What goals do you have for your wealth in 2026? Most of us could save more. Most of us could be more generous, and most of us could fine-tune our budgets more responsibly. Whatever resolutions you make about your wealth this year, it's important to avoid extremes. Avoiding Extremes Regarding Wealth Occasionally, you’ll hear of
- [Honoring our Fathers on Veterans Day](https://institutefc.org/honoring-our-fathers-on-veterans-day/) - The Westminster Larger Catechism tells us honoring veterans is part of fulfilling God's command to honor our fathers. Let us honor them and call our leaders to safeguard them.
- [Dreisbach: The Bible Was America's Guide from the Start](https://institutefc.org/dreisbach-the-bible-was-americas-guide-from-the-start/) - Editor's Note: We previously published a review of Daniel Dreisbach's new book, Reading the Bible with the Founding Fathers, which examines how the Bible informed the thinking of both Christians and religious skeptics at America's founding. IFWE's executive director Hugh Whelchel recently interviewed Dreisbach about his book. Hugh Whelchel (HW): I want to start with
- [How Intentional Are You About Who Hang Out With?](https://institutefc.org/how-intentional-are-you-about-who-hang-out-with/) - “You will be the same person in ten years as you are today except for the people you meet and the books you read," writes Og Mandino in The Greatest Salesman in the World. How intentional are you about who hang out with? Sometimes we don’t see how the people in our lives affect us.
- [Is the Protestant Work Ethic Still Alive?](https://institutefc.org/is-the-protestant-work-ethic-still-alive/) - America’s vaunted Protestant work ethic is getting a makeover: Now it might be more of an atheist work ethic. So begins a 2014 article by Kimberly Winston about a study published in the Journal of Institutional Economics, which shows an inverse relationship between the religiosity of a state’s population and its “productive entrepreneurship.” In other words, the
- [Influencing Culture through All the Spheres of Our Lives](https://institutefc.org/influencing-culture-through-all-the-spheres-of-our-lives/) - Recently, I was asked to speak on the “Seven Mountains of Cultural Influence.” This is the idea that there are seven areas of activity in society that influence our common culture. If we as Christians are to be salt and light in the world and influence the culture around us, we need to understand how
- [Introducing IFWE’s New President](https://institutefc.org/introducing-ifwes-new-president/) - In March 2020, the entire globe was first getting acquainted with the COVID-19 virus that has gone on to change the world. At the same time, my world was radically altered when I was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). As I shared at the time, people diagnosed with ALS typically have a life expectancy
- [How Do You Foster Peace and Prosperity in the World?](https://institutefc.org/how-do-you-foster-peace-and-prosperity-in-the-world/) - Editor's Note: The following invitation is a special offer for IFWE blog readers from IFWE executive director Hugh Whelchel. Does your heart ache when you see people exiled from their home because of violence, disasters, ethnic cleansing, and political reasons? Sometimes people are forced from their homeland by an invading army or a civil war.
- [Pilgrims, Property Rights, & Prosperity](https://institutefc.org/pilgrims-property-rights-prosperity/) - Ed. Note: this post is adapted from an op-ed appearing today in The Washington Post's "On Faith" forum. Edward Winslow, a passenger on the Mayflower, when speaking of the first Thanksgiving, said on December 11th, 1621: And although it be not always so plentiful as it was at this time with us, yet by the goodness
- [Flourishing: The Way Things Ought To Be](https://institutefc.org/flourishing-the-way-things-ought-to-be/) - And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Behold the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more,
- [Three Biblical Blessings That Illustrate Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/three-biblical-blessings-that-illustrate-flourishing/) - The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace. - Numbers 6:24-26 Last week Art Lindsley referenced Hebrew poetry found in the Bible to give a more complete picture of flourishing. He referred
- [Wilberforce: A Model for Influencing Culture, Morals, and Values](https://institutefc.org/wilberforce-a-model-for-influencing-culture-morals-and-values/) - Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports...reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principles. - George Washington, Washington's Farewell Address (1796). How can Christians work to influence culture? Virtue plays a key role in the
- [Does God Want You to Be Rich...or Poor?](https://institutefc.org/does-god-want-you-to-be-rich-or-poor/) - "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11 One of the most perplexing issues facing Christians in the marketplace today is whether God wants us to be rich or poor. It
- [Pilgrims, Prosperity, & Property Rights](https://institutefc.org/pilgrims-prosperity-property-rights/) - Editor's Note: Last year, so many of you enjoyed learning this piece of little known American and Thanksgiving history we thought we'd share it again. We at IFWE wish you and your families a blessed Thanksgiving. Edward Winslow, a passenger on the Mayflower, when speaking of the first Thanksgiving, said on December 11th, 1621: And
- [A Biblical View of Productivity](https://institutefc.org/a-biblical-view-of-productivity/) - Many years ago I heard a quote attributed to Thomas Edison: If we did all the things we are capable of, we would literally astound ourselves. I have been haunted by quotes like this all my life. On the first page of What's Best Next: How the Gospel Transforms the Way You Get Things Done,
- [Stewardship, Community, and Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/stewardship-community-and-flourishing/) - We live in a strange paradox. Our cultural narratives are comprised of concepts like “rugged individualism,” “pull yourself up by your bootstraps,” and “every man for himself.” Independence is seen as the ultimate virtue. Despite these narratives, the truth is our very existence is dependent on our interdependence. Created to Be Castaways? How long would
- ['Rethinking Social Justice': A Call to Restore Biblical Compassion](https://institutefc.org/rethinking-social-justice-restore-biblical-compassion/) - The debate over income inequality continues unabated. Quotes like this one from a recent CNN article are common: “The stakes are high because we understand inequality to be global, pervasive, growing, and a central threat to social justice and human dignity.” Social justice is an elusive concept because it means so many different things to different
- [How the Reformation Changed Education Forever](https://institutefc.org/how-the-reformation-changed-education-forever/) - “The scandal of the evangelical mind is that there is not much of an evangelical mind,” writes Mark Noll in the opening of his classic book The Scandal of the Evangelical Mind published in 1995. He goes on to lament that even with all the success evangelicals have had on a popular level they have
- [If Technology Is Going to Destroy Jobs, Is UBI the Answer?](https://institutefc.org/if-technology-is-going-to-destroy-jobs-is-ubi-the-answer/) - Mark Zuckerberg wants to give you money, but it's not his money! In a recent Harvard commencement address, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg joined other major technology figures to advocate for universal basic income (UBI). With the rise of new technology, like driverless cars, which many fear will destroy millions of jobs here in the United
- [Metaxas’s Luther: Compelled by Conscience, Paving the Way for Religious Freedom](https://institutefc.org/metaxass-luther-compelled-by-conscience-paving-the-way-for-religious-freedom/) - This month we celebrate the five-hundredth anniversary of the posting of Martin Luther's 95 Theses on the church door in Wittenberg, an event that unintentionally ignited what we now know as the Protestant Reformation. To celebrate this anniversary, Eric Metaxas has released his latest book, Martin Luther: The Man Who Rediscovered God and Changed the
- [The Day the World Changed: The Reformation 500 Years Later](https://institutefc.org/the-day-the-world-changed-the-reformation-500-years-later/) - As America celebrates Halloween, many here and overseas celebrate an anniversary that changed the world. October 31, 1517 marked the beginning of the Protestant Reformation, which brought change to the church and ultimately impacted culture and society's institutions as well. A Catalyst for Change Luther never intended to start a reformation. When he nailed his
- [Is the Church Having an Identity Crisis?](https://institutefc.org/church-identity-crisis/) - Urban legend has it that after an erroneous story about his death appeared in a major American newspaper, Mark Twain remarked, “The report of my death was an exaggeration!” This quote came to mind more than once as I read my friend Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo’s new book, The Death of Western Christianity: Drinking from the
- [Living Out the Gospel in Both Word and Deed](https://institutefc.org/gospel-in-word-and-deed/) - You’ve probably heard the quote, “Preach the gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.” It is often attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscan Order. This exhortation implies that it is more effective to communicate the gospel by example than by simply sharing it verbally. Regardless of who first uttered these
- [Creating Wealth Is Godly Work, Too](https://institutefc.org/creating-wealth-is-godly-work/) - Capitalism is an organized system to guarantee that greed becomes the primary force of our economic system and allows the few at the top to get very wealthy and has the rest of us riding around thinking we can be that way, too—if we just work hard enough, sell enough Tupperware and Amway products, we
- [Competition Isn’t Unchristian—But Motive Matters](https://institutefc.org/competition-unchristian-motive-matters/) - After the Super Bowl, sports fans can look forward to tuning into the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea (Feb. 9-25). No doubt there are a number of Christian athletes who will be competing this year, as in years past. The question is, how do these young men and women reconcile the idea of
- [How Does Stewardship Give Us the Rights of Ownership?](https://institutefc.org/stewardship-rights-of-ownership/) - If the cattle on a thousand hills are God’s (Ps. 50:10), how can I brand them as “mine”? In other words, how can the Bible teach stewardship and at the same time imply the importance of property rights? Our current understanding of private property has its roots in the Bible. In the opening chapters of
- [Why America's Freedom Depends on the Morality of America's People](https://institutefc.org/america-freedom-morality-people/) - In an often-told story, Benjamin Franklin, upon exiting the 1787 Constitutional Convention, was asked what sort of government the delegates had created. “A republic, if you can keep it,” quipped Franklin. It is widely believed that the founding fathers recognized religion and morality were needed to form the foundation upon which this new republic would
- [Are We Defining Morality on a Sliding Scale?](https://institutefc.org/defining-morality-sliding-scale/) - In a recent interview with ABC News, former FBI Director James Comey said President Trump was “morally unfit to be President of the United States.” Rather than argue for or against Comey’s perspective, the question I’d like to pose today is “what is moral?” Admittedly, trying to answer that question is not easy given the
- [Can the Poor Truly Flourish?](https://institutefc.org/can-the-poor-truly-flourish/) - One of our blog subscribers from Canada recently asked an interesting question after watching our video Freedom to Flourish (below) and asked: “How can people who live in poor countries or those who grew up poor flourish?” This is an important question because, in our current culture, when people talk about “flourishing,” often they are only
- [A Thanksgiving Lesson from George Washington on Humility and Providence](https://institutefc.org/a-thanksgiving-lesson-from-george-washington-on-humility-and-providence/) - In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps (Prov. 16:9) It was George Washington who, in his first year as president, originally set aside Thursday, November 26th, 1789 as "A Day of Publick Thanksgiving and Prayer." There certainly had been many Thanksgiving observances in America before Washington’s proclamation. The colonists of the
- [Why Religious Pluralism Makes Sharing the Gospel Difficult](https://institutefc.org/why-religious-pluralism-makes-sharing-the-gospel-difficult/) - A recent Barna study reported, “Almost half of Millennials (47 percent) agree at least somewhat that it is wrong to share one’s personal beliefs with someone of a different faith in hopes that they will one day share the same faith.” In the same article, Barna president David Kinnaman suggests that what is driving the
- [How the Sacred-Secular Divide Impacts the Church](https://institutefc.org/how-the-sacred-secular-divide-impacts-the-church/) - It has become commonplace to say that we live in a pluralist society – not merely a society which is in fact plural in the variety of cultures, religions and lifestyles which it embraces, but pluralist in the sense that this plurality is celebrated as things to be approved and cherished (Lesslie Newbigin). In his
- [Thanksgiving, Religious Liberty, & Our Calling as Pilgrims](https://institutefc.org/thanksgiving-religious-liberty-our-calling-as-pilgrims/) - Businessman Andrew Thorburn took over as chief executive officer of the Essendon Football Club last month. While it’s not the NFL, Essendon football is a big deal in Australia. Thorburn seemed to be the right man for the job. Not only is he a well-respected businessman, he had recently served as CEO of the National
- [A Biblical Perspective on Wisdom & Foolishness](https://institutefc.org/a-biblical-perspective-on-wisdom-foolishness/) - “Stupid is as stupid does,” quips Forrest Gump in the 1994 movie by the same name. There is a curious statement about stupidity floating around on the internet that says: “Debating an idiot is like trying to play chess with a pigeon—it knocks the pieces over, craps on the board, and flies back to its
- [Gifts, Talents, and Virtue](https://institutefc.org/gifts-talents-and-virtue/) - Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. - I Peter 4:10 God has given each one of us unique abilities, talents, and gifts. The question is, how do we put them to work? The Purpose of Gifts & Talents We talked about
- [You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know: Knowledge, Understanding, and Wisdom](https://institutefc.org/you-dont-know-what-you-dont-know-knowledge-understanding-and-wisdom/) - The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction. -Proverbs 1:7 In our first post on thinking biblically about faith, work, and economics, we suggested five tools, or mental models, that should shape and support our thinking and decision-making, as well as help us build a holistic biblical worldview. By
- [Should We Have Christian Companies?](https://institutefc.org/should-we-have-christian-companies/) - Some of the largest companies in the United States have been identified as “Christian,” and this occasionally makes news headlines. Last summer, Chick-fil-A took a controversial stand against gay marriage because of the beliefs of its Christian ownership. This summer, Hobby Lobby went to court because of its Christian convictions. And now, Forever 21 is
- [How Do We Create Long-Term Value for the Kingdom of God?](https://institutefc.org/creating-long-term-value-for-kingdom-of-god/) - An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. - Proverbs 18:15 (ESV) “How do I know what God wants me to do in this situation?” This is a question that I hear often. It’s a question that I had myself, back when I was a college graduate. After I graduated
- [Are there Economic Implications in the Creation Story?](https://institutefc.org/are-there-economic-implications-in-the-creation-story/) - Is capitalism immoral? Answering this question from a Christian perspective requires returning to the Bible, taking its economic principles that we know by definition are moral, and comparing them to the underlying principles of free enterprise. We do not believe that the Bible explicitly endorses capitalism or any other economic system. Yet the Bible has much to say
- [The Word 'Capitalism' Comes with Baggage—But It's Not Bad! Here's Why.](https://institutefc.org/the-word-capitalism-comes-with-baggage-but-its-not-bad-heres-why/) - Editor’s note: Hugh Whelchel was recently featured in an interview with Praxis Circle. Below are a few highlights of that conversation, which you can watch in full here. What Do You Think About Capitalism? It’s a word that comes with a lot of baggage, but what word doesn’t anymore? I don’t have a real problem
- [Are Riches and Righteousness At Odds?](https://institutefc.org/are-riches-and-righteousness-at-odds/) - Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. - Matthew 19:24 Christians often hear about how the Bible criticizes wealth and chastises the rich. Less discussed are the Bible's instructions about how those blessed
- [What are the Economic Implications of the Fall?](https://institutefc.org/what-are-the-economic-implications-of-the-fall/) - Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat food from it all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you… By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food. - Genesis 3:17-19 Today we continue to look to the scriptures in an attempt to answer our questions
- [Cronyism and the Free Market](https://institutefc.org/cronyism-and-the-free-market/) - Culture, then, may be either godless or godly, depending on the spirit which animates it. - Henry R.Van Til After looking more closely at the idea of redemption in my last blog, how can this third chapter in the Four Chapter Gospel help answer our questions about markets and morality? Markets, Morality, and the Four Chapter
- [Should Christians Compete to Win?](https://institutefc.org/should-christians-compete-to-win/) - As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. -Proverbs 27:17 In an article last year, New York Times columnist David Brooks suggested that the world of competitive sports and the world of faith—whether Jewish, Christian, or Muslim—are two moral universes which are not reconcilable. In the realm of work and economics, this argument extends
- [What If I'm Stuck in the Wrong Job?](https://institutefc.org/what-if-i-am-stuck-in-the-wrong-job/) - Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. Remember, O LORD, your compassion and unfailing love. - Psalm 25:4-6 A young man asked
- [Is Springsteen Right On Income Inequality?](https://institutefc.org/is-springsteen-right-on-income-inequality/) - Editor's note: This post has been edited from its original version appearing on DoggieHeadTilt, a blog run by the Clapham Institute. All-American rocker Bruce Springsteen took to the pages of Rolling Stone magazine this past spring to lament the existence of income inequality in our country today: You cannot have a social contract with the enormous
- [Markets & Morality from a Biblical Perspective](https://institutefc.org/markets-morality-from-a-biblical-perspective/) - In a recent Washington Post article Steven Pearlstein, a professor of public and international affairs at George Mason University, asked the question “Is Capitalism Moral?” His answer, although interesting, seemed incomplete. To answer the question, you have to ask "what is moral?" Pearlstein fails to ask and answer this question. Admittedly, trying to answer the question
- [Is Foreign Aid a Big Waste?](https://institutefc.org/is-foreign-aid-a-big-waste/) - In his recent Gates Foundation’s annual letter Bill Gates makes the shocking prediction that, “By 2035, there will be almost no poor countries left in the world.” What is shocking is that the news media has done little if no reporting on the fact that over the last 25 years, hundreds of millions of people
- [Extreme Poverty Is Declining - Here's Why You Might Not Have Heard about It](https://institutefc.org/extreme-poverty-declining-barna-group/) - Did you know that, in the past thirty years, the percentage of people in the world who live in extreme poverty has decreased by more than half? If you said no—if you thought the number had gone up; that more people, not less, live in extreme poverty—you aren't alone. So begins a recent article by
- [Washington's "Vine and Fig Tree" Points to a Biblical View of Economic Freedom](https://institutefc.org/a-biblical-view-of-economic-freedom/) - Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow. -- Isaiah 1:17 According to a 2015 World Bank report, more people have climbed out of abject poverty in the last 25 years than in all of the rest of the history of
- [Economic Freedom and Care for the Environment: Mutually Exclusive or Mutually Beneficial?](https://institutefc.org/economic-freedom-and-care-for-the-environment-mutually-exclusive-or-mutually-beneficial/) - In the late 1970s, our energy outlook was not looking good. Over six years, gas prices had tripled and there were shortages and long lines at the pump. It appeared that we were at the mercy of OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries). Experts predicted that we would be out of oil soon, perhaps
- [New Global Poverty Stats Reveal Issues in Sub-Saharan Africa](https://institutefc.org/new-global-poverty-stats-reveal-issues-in-sub-saharan-africa/) - Recently, while speaking at a college, I asked students if world poverty was on the rise or on the decline. Many of them answered that they believed poverty was on the rise—and they are in good company. A 2014 Barna poll revealed that two-thirds of people in the U.S. also think that worldwide poverty has increased
- [The Church’s Role in “Fixing” Capitalism](https://institutefc.org/the-churchs-role-in-fixing-capitalism/) - Spend a few minutes on social media or watching certain news channels these days, and it won’t be long before you hear a variation of the accusation that “capitalism is broken” or “so many of our problems are caused by capitalism.” Is that true? And, more importantly, how should we as Christians think about our
- [A Paradigm Shift on Faith, Work, and Economics](https://institutefc.org/paradigm-shift/) - Years ago I had a coworker who had worked in upper management at FedEx. He told me this interesting story about the FedEx logo, which is highly recognized around the world. But many (even some FedEx employees) do not know the story behind it. In 1994, Fred Smith set out to redesign the logo. He
- [What Does the Bible Say About Work?](https://institutefc.org/what-does-the-bible-say-about-work/) - "...Remember that Paradise wasn’t a vacation—it was a vocation." —Stuart Briscoe, Choices for a Lifetime God is a worker. From the very beginning of the Scriptures we are faced with the inescapable fact that work is part of God's character and nature. As my friend Steve Garber of The Washington Institute likes to say, vocation
- [Is Your Gospel Missing Something?: The Four-Chapter Gospel (Part 2)](https://institutefc.org/is-your-gospel-missing-something-the-four-chapter-gospel-part-2/) - If you are like me and have been in an evangelical church, you probably understand the gospel as: God made you and wants to have a relationship with you. Your sin separates you from God, and there is nothing you can do to bridge the gap. On the cross Jesus took the punishment your sins
- [Reading the Bible as One Story: The Four Chapter Gospel (Part 6)](https://institutefc.org/reading-the-bible-as-one-story-the-four-chapter-gospel-part-6/) - Let’s summarize our discussion of the Four-Chapter Gospel from these past several days: For 1800 years the metanarrative of the Bible was taught in four chapters, creation, fall, redemption and restoration. In the last 200 years, the evangelical church in America has truncated the Four-Chapter gospel to only two chapters: Fall and Redemption. Leaving out
- [Our Job Description from the Beginning: The Cultural Mandate (Part 2)](https://institutefc.org/our-job-description-from-the-beginning-the-cultural-mandate-part-2/) - In the opening chapter of Genesis we find God giving Man (male and female) a job description. It is called the “Cultural Mandate,” also sometimes called the “Creation Mandate”: God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea
- [We Are What We Do: The Cultural Mandate (Part 3)](https://institutefc.org/we-are-what-we-do-the-cultural-mandate-part-3/) - Yesterday, we talked about our job description given to us in the very beginning of Creation – the Cultural Mandate. It’s a call to steward creation, a call given not just to Adam and Eve but to us as well. This job description gives us purpose and direction in our vocations. It also is a
- [Our Great Commission as the Bride of Christ](https://institutefc.org/our-great-commission-as-the-bride-of-christ/) - Is the Cultural Mandate still in place today? Why don’t we read about it in the New Testament? Was the Cultural Mandate negated by the Fall? These are some of the questions I am often asked when discussing the Cultural Mandate, as we have been doing in this series. To jump to the answer, let
- [Why Heaven Is Not Our Home](https://institutefc.org/why-heaven-is-not-our-home/) - Despite all the New Testament references to the Kingdom, most evangelical Christians today have no idea that their daily work has anything to do with the Kingdom of God. Paul Marshall, senior fellow at the Claremont Institute, in his book Heaven Is Not My Home argues that the escapist attitude of many American Christians has
- [Why Work Towards a Common Goal with Unbelievers](https://institutefc.org/why-to-work-towards-a-common-goal-with-unbelievers/) - We often meet people who are not Christians but who agree with a Christian stance on a certain cultural issue, and therefore they are willing to work together with Christians toward resolution. We should be open to working with them for a common goal. Francis Schaeffer popularized the use of the term co-belligerence to express
- [Two Great Lies About Success](https://institutefc.org/two-great-lies-about-success/) - Two great lies have been promoted in our culture over the last twenty years. They are told to children in school, students in college and throughout the business world. The first great lie is “If you work hard enough, you can be anything you want to be.” It is often sold as the American Dream,
- [Marx and Our Longing for Work to Matter](https://institutefc.org/marx-and-our-longing-for-work-to-matter/) - Following up on our post discussing cultural movements in the 17th-19th centuries that have shaped our view of work, let's not fail to address Karl Marx. While Marxism and capitalism (as discussed in a previous post) are regarded as opposites, both see the pursuit of a vocation as an end in itself. Both encourage workers
- [Our Calling to Reweave Shalom](https://institutefc.org/our-calling-to-reweave-shalom/) - Imagine an enormous tent city on the edge of the greatest metropolis in the world. The refugees who live here have been forcibly taken from their homeland by an invading army. They have seen their city sacked, their families murdered, and their sacred place of worship destroyed. They are bitter toward their captors and would
- [Christ and Culture](https://institutefc.org/christ-and-culture/) - For centuries, Christians have struggled to articulate an effective Biblical position regarding the church’s interaction with culture. In his classic 1951 book Christ and Culture, which is still influential today, H. Richard Niebuhr suggested five potential methods of modeling the interface between Christ and culture. Although Niebuhr’s theology is not always evangelical, his insights remain
- [How Do We Shape Culture?](https://institutefc.org/how-do-we-shape-culture/) - What is culture? We talk a lot about changing it - but what is it we're trying so hard to change? Theologian Donald Bloesch writes that culture "is the task appointed to humans to realize their destiny in the world in service to the glory of God." The Cultural Mandate calls us to fill the
- [A Wing and A Prayer](https://institutefc.org/a-wing-and-a-prayer/) - Today we conclude our discussion on "The Work of Our Hands" with the inspiring story of John Magee, Jr., a Christian pilot who fought in World War II. In 1940, John Magee, Jr. crossed into Canada and enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force. He was one of hundreds of Americans who crossed the border to
- [Christianity, the West, and the Rest](https://institutefc.org/christianity-the-west-and-the-rest/) - History must repeat itself because we pay such little attention to it the first time. - Blackie Sherrod in the Dallas Morning News When the final history is written, what, if anything, will have killed Western civilization? The collapse of religion, perhaps? The infection of healthy capitalism with a terminal case of greed? These are only
- [Work, Success, and the Parable of the Talents](https://institutefc.org/work-success-and-the-parable-of-the-talents/) - Recently I saw a bumper sticker that read, He who dies with the most toys wins, but he is still dead. This must be a post-modern version of the late 1990’s original, which simply read, “He who dies with the most toys wins.” If bumper stickers are a reflection of the soul of our
- [Is Competition Sinful?](https://institutefc.org/is-competition-sinful/) - Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 1 Corinthians 9:24 The Apostle Paul paints a powerful picture in his first letter to the church in Corinth. He challenges his readers to do more than
- [Four Questions About Faith & Work](https://institutefc.org/four-questions-about-faith-work/) - I'm currently in the middle of a "radio tour," doing interviews about my new book How Then Should We Work? with radio stations across the country. I've noticed that certain questions pop up consistently in these interviews. I thought I'd take some time to share these questions - and their answers - with you today.
- [God's Own Peace Corps](https://institutefc.org/gods-own-peace-corps/) - Our vocation is, I believe, to build good out of evil. For if we try to build good out of good, we are in danger of running out of raw material. - Paul Tournier I spoke at a men's retreat last weekend. The last lecture I delivered was on Jeremiah 29:7, where Jeremiah writes to
- [Four Principles of Biblical Stewardship](https://institutefc.org/four-principles-of-biblical-stewardship/) - Every faculty you have, your power of thinking or of moving your limbs from moment to moment, is given you by God. If you devoted every moment of your whole life exclusively to His service, you could not give Him anything that was not in a sense His own already. - C. S. Lewis, Mere
- [Stewardship With A Capital "S"](https://institutefc.org/stewardship-with-a-capital-s/) - Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. - I Peter 4:10 We're kicking off the Twelve Days of Significance by exploring the concept of biblical stewardship, what we call "Stewardship With A Capital 'S'." Living a life of purpose and significance begins
- [The Four-Chapter Gospel: A Story of Significance](https://institutefc.org/the-four-chapter-gospel-a-story-of-significance/) - “It is not just a wonderful plan for ‘my life’ but a wonderful plan for the world; it is about the coming of God’s kingdom to renew all things.” -Tim Keller There is a powerful scene at the end of the Lord of the Rings that was not in the movie. After the ring is
- [A New Year, A New Perspective on Faith and Work](https://institutefc.org/new-year-faith-work/) - The plans of the diligent surely lead to advantage. - Proverbs 21:5 In the mid-sixties there was a successful television series called Run for Your Life. Actor Ben Gazzara plays a lawyer who is told by his doctor in the first episode that he will die in nine to eighteen months. Gazzara's character decides
- [Is Productivity Moral?](https://institutefc.org/is-productivity-moral/) - There is nothing better for a person than that he should eat and drink and find enjoyment in his toil. This also, I saw, is from the hand of God, for apart from him who can eat or who can have enjoyment? - Ecclesiastes 2:24 In his Doing Business and Pleasing God seminar, theologian Wayne Grudem states
- [Wealth from A Christian Perspective](https://institutefc.org/wealth-from-a-christian-perspective/) - I continually find it necessary to guard against that natural love of wealth and grandeur which prompts us always, when we come to apply our general doctrine to our own case, to claim an exception. —William Wilberforce This week I had the opportunity to listen to one of my co-workers, Dr. Anne Bradley, answer questions
- [In It for the Long Haul: What Sin and Obedience Mean for Our Work](https://institutefc.org/in-it-for-the-long-haul-what-sin-and-obedience-mean-for-our-work/) - There is a great scene in the comedy film O Brother, Where Art Thou? that speaks to the subject of sin and obedience. After escaped convicts Pete and Delmar are saved and baptized, they have a discussion with the skeptic Everett about the extent of the forgiveness of their past sins: Pete: "The Preacher said it
- [In It for the Long Haul, Part Two: Obeying God Amid the Mundane](https://institutefc.org/in-it-for-the-long-haul-part-two-obeying-god-amid-the-mundane/) - If I obey Jesus Christ in the seemingly random circumstances of life, they become pinholes through I see the face of God. - Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest The word obedience does not carry a very positive connotation for me. In my youth I was told to brush my teeth, finish my vegetables,
- [What the Resurrection Means for Our Work](https://institutefc.org/what-the-resurrection-means-for-our-work/) - Editor's Note: We at IFWE wish you and your family a blessed Easter weekend. If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith...But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits
- [Redemption: Our Only Hope](https://institutefc.org/redemption-our-only-hope/) - For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whosoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. - John 3:16-17 In a previous post we
- [How Should Christians Think About Retirement?](https://institutefc.org/how-should-christians-think-about-retirement/) - What is the Christian understanding of work?…It is that work is not, primarily, a thing one does to live, but the thing one lives to do. It is, or it should be, the full expression of the worker’s faculties…the medium in which he offers himself to God. - Dorothy Sayers, Unpopular Opinions If work is,
- [Why Do We Work? Six Labor Day Reflections](https://institutefc.org/why-do-we-work-six-labor-day-reflections/) - Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest. - Proverbs 6:6-8 As a young boy growing up in rural Florida, I loved Labor Day. My hometown celebrated the holiday like many small
- [There Is No Going Back](https://institutefc.org/there-is-no-going-back/) - This is what the LORD says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls." - Jeremiah 6:16 Have you ever been in a situation where you weren’t sure that you wanted to go on
- [What Is the Secret of Contentment?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-the-secret-of-contentment/) - I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well-fed or hungry,
- [The Secret to Following God in Your Calling](https://institutefc.org/the-secret-to-following-god-in-your-calling/) - For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. - Ephesians 2:10 We usually do not use the terms “calling” and “stewardship” together, but we should. Not understanding the biblical relationship between these two important concepts has spiritually handicapped many evangelical Christians
- [Feeling Exhausted All the Time? Here's How the Sabbath Can Rejuvenate You](https://institutefc.org/the-sabbath-and-your-work/) - The way we’re working isn’t working....you’re probably not very excited to get to the office in the morning, you don’t feel much appreciated while you’re there, you find it difficult to get your most important work accomplished amid all the distractions, and you don’t believe that what you’re doing makes much of a difference anyway.
- [Discover the Key to Finding Significance in Your Work](https://institutefc.org/finding-significance-at-work/) - Have you ever felt that your best wasn’t good enough? Maybe it was something a boss or coworker said or did not say about your performance. Last week we looked at a recent article in the New York Times suggesting that employees are vastly more satisfied and productive when four key needs are met. The authors
- [Do You Need Hope to Face Your Workday? Remember the Resurrection](https://institutefc.org/the-resurrection-and-your-work/) - In Dante’s poem Inferno, a sign was posted on the gates of Hell that read: Abandon all hope, ye who enter here! Today many would suggest that the same sign should hang above the entrance to their workplaces. It's clear that we need hope, and sometimes we need it while at work. This engages a "mental" need
- [Are You Connected to a Higher Purpose at Work?](https://institutefc.org/connecting-to-a-higher-purpose/) - "The mystery of human existence lies not in just staying alive, but in finding something to live for," writes Fyodor Dostoyevsky in The Brothers Karamazov. A recent New York Times article entitled Why You Hate Work echoes this idea, suggesting employers should be more concerned with four core needs of their employees. The authors argue that the
- [Are You a Slave to Your Passions?](https://institutefc.org/how-your-passions-impact-your-faith-and-work/) - For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. - Galatians 5:1 We are passionate people. God created us that way. God has created each of us for a unique purpose. He has equipped us with distinctive passions, temperaments, abilities, experiences, spiritual gifts, education,
- [Happiness and the Biblical Definition of Success](https://institutefc.org/happiness-and-the-biblical-definition-of-sucess/) - For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. - Matthew 25:14-15 I once heard someone say, “I’ll be happy when…fill in the blank.” He went on to say, “Whatever
- [What Is a Good Job?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-a-good-job/) - "Why do you want to leave your current position?" This is the dreaded question that almost every candidate has to answer when interviewing for a new job. Experts tell you not to say, “My boss is a jerk” or “The work environment is toxic” because it will probably be the last question you receive. Instead
- [Is Evangelism the Sole Reason for Our Work?](https://institutefc.org/work-and-evangelism/) - But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. - 1 Peter 3:15 As I read and hear much of what is being produced in the current “faith and
- [The Lesson I Discovered about Calling in 'Unbroken'](https://institutefc.org/calling-in-unbroken/) - About six months ago my wife and I were preparing to drive to New York City. I asked her if there was a book she wanted to listen to during the trip. She replied, “Yes: Unbroken!” Neither of us knew anything about the book other than it being a best-seller written by Laura Hillenbrand, the author
- [Our Calling Today Is Linked to the Ancient Israelites - and the Image of God Is the Key to Understanding Why](https://institutefc.org/calling-the-israelites-and-the-image-of-god/) - "At Joshua's command, the Israelite army gave a great shout, and Jericho's walls fell down, the soldiers rushed in and conquered the city (Joshua 6:20)." So begins the mission of God’s people to take back the Promised Land. The training manual for this mission was written much earlier by Moses. It begins with the first
- [How Intentional Are You about Integrating Your Faith with Your Work?](https://institutefc.org/being-intentional-about-integrating-your-faith-with-your-work/) - "The problem with Western Christians is not that they aren't where they should be, but that they aren't what they should be where they are" writes Os Guinness in his classic book, The Call. This astute observation even describes many of us trying to live out our faith in all the work we do, especially
- [The Fascinating, Heartbreaking Contradiction in How We Long for Significance](https://institutefc.org/how-we-long-for-significance/) - This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." - Matthew 6:9-10 "It is both fascinating and heartbreaking that most people long for significance and at the same time believe they’re nothing more than the
- [Why Does It Matter If We Pray "Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done"?](https://institutefc.org/praying-thy-kingdom-come/) - The kingdom of God comes when the way God designed things to be, happens. - Reverend Bill Haley For a number of years I have been involved in a non-profit called the Fellows Initiative. This group helps churches start Fellows Programs. These Fellows Programs are nine to ten month spiritual and vocational leadership programs for college
- [Wanted: A Meaningful Job](https://institutefc.org/whats-your-definition-of-a-meaningful-job/) - If you’ve read anything about millennials in the past five years, you know they desire meaningful work. As described previously on this blog, this desire can be a significant source of anxiety as they hunt for jobs. The truth is, it’s not only millennials who are searching for meaning in their work. A Culture of
- [A Christian’s Secret Weapon to Prevent Burnout: Shalom](https://institutefc.org/a-christians-secret-weapon-to-prevent-burnout-shalom/) - From the day our first parents walked out of the garden, estranged from God, each other and the earth itself, God has been at work redeeming the fallen creation, its people and its social systems. --Bryant Myers, Walking With the Poor Work–life balance is big business. A constant stream of books, articles, and conferences are
- [Work Is Not Your Life: Why Sabbath Rest Is Essential](https://institutefc.org/work-is-not-your-life-why-sabbath-rest-is-essential/) - The way we’re working isn’t working….you’re probably not very excited to get to the office in the morning, you don’t feel much appreciated while you’re there, you find it difficult to get your most important work accomplished amid all the distractions, and you don’t believe that what you’re doing makes much of a difference anyway.
- [Humility: The Key to Wise Decision-Making](https://institutefc.org/humility-the-key-to-wise-decision-making/) - In a talk at Catalyst in 2009, Malcolm Gladwell tries to answer the question, “Why does confidence sometimes lead to bad decisions?” As an example, he tells the story of the defeat of Union General Joe Hooker in the Battle of Chancellorsville during the Civil War. While Hooker had General Robert E. Lee’s army outnumbered two
- [How the Protestant Reformation Renewed the Church, Our Work, and Society](https://institutefc.org/how-the-protestant-reformation-renewed-the-church-our-work-and-society/) - "The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it" (Genesis 2:15). In October of this year we will celebrate the 500th anniversary of the beginning of the Protestant Reformation. Most historians agree the Reformation officially started on October 31, 1517, when Martin Luther,
- [Why Is Work Good? Six Quick Reminders on Labor Day](https://institutefc.org/why-is-work-good-six-quick-reminders-on-labor-day/) - As a young boy growing up in rural Florida, I loved Labor Day. My hometown celebrated the holiday like many small towns across the nation, with parades, picnics, barbecues, fireworks, and other public gatherings. It marked the end of summer, one last celebration before returning to school. To my young mind, Labor Day seemed like
- [Why Dishwashing Matters in God's Kingdom](https://institutefc.org/why-dishwashing-matters-in-gods-kingdom/) - Called the “hub of five valleys," Missoula, Montana is encircled by five mountain ranges and is the meeting point of three rivers: the Blackfoot (of River Runs Through It fame), the Bitterroot, and the Clark Fork. I traveled there several years ago and thought it was a beautiful place and a special college town, home
- [What Obedience Looks Like “In the World”](https://institutefc.org/obedience-in-the-world/) - Can a story about four young men in the book of Daniel help us in our struggles as believers in a post-Christian culture? Daniel’s story might just provide the perfect model for faithfulness to God’s call on our lives—no matter what the environment. Working for the Good of the City Doesn’t Mean Complete Assimilation Daniel
- [New Job, New Calling? Or Same Calling, Different Job?](https://institutefc.org/new-job-same-calling/) - What’s the difference between your vocational calling and your career, occupation, or job? Vocational calling is the call to God and to his service in the vocational sphere of life based on giftedness, desires, affirmations, and human need. Vocational calling is usually stable and permanent over a lifetime. Discovering our vocation is possible because it
- [Goal-Setting as Servants of God](https://institutefc.org/goal-setting-christians/) - If you knew without a doubt that you could not fail in accomplishing one major goal, what goal would you set for your life? I have heard this question for years in business circles when the subject of goal-setting comes up. It’s also one I think about between Christmas and the new year as I
- [Can Meaningful Work Truly Be Found?](https://institutefc.org/can-meaningful-work-truly-be-found/) - Everyone desires meaningful work. For Christians, the question of meaningful work might actually be a trick question. We All Dream of Finding Meaningful Work Research done in 2014 by the Barna Group shows that 75 percent of U.S. adults say they are looking for ways to live a more meaningful life. Only nineteen percent of adults
- [Why Your Personal Vision Is Important and How to Discover It](https://institutefc.org/discover-your-personal-vision/) - Discovering your personal vision starts with understanding who God has created you to be, and what he has called you to do. King David writes in Psalm 139:13-14, For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I
- [Strengths or Weaknesses: Which Need More Attention?](https://institutefc.org/strengths-weaknesses-more-attention/) - It was a short list, just a few “plumbing” things that needed to be fixed before the closing on our house. “I can do that; no need to call a plumber,” I said to my wife. A week later, the bill from the plumber was over $900…obviously, plumbing is not my comparative advantage. Why does
- [Do You Know the Purpose for Your Gifts and Talents?](https://institutefc.org/the-purpose-gifts-and-talents/) - God has given each one of us unique abilities, talents, and gifts. The question is, how do we put them to work? The Purpose of Gifts & Talents Using our gifts and talents for God’s purposes involves discovering your personal vision and understanding your comparative advantage. But it also involves knowing the "how" and the
- [Get Wisdom, Get Understanding—And Share It with One Another](https://institutefc.org/get-wisdom-understanding-share-it/) - Albert Einstein once said, “Any fool can know. The point is to understand.” So, Mr. Einstein, what's the difference between knowing and understanding? What about wisdom? Whatever his response would have been, the authors of the Bible speak a lot about these ideas. Interestingly, they seem to use the words "knowledge,” “understanding,” and “wisdom,” almost
- [The Secret to Finding Work–Life Balance](https://institutefc.org/the-secret-to-finding-work-life-balance/) - In a recent radio interview, I was asked if "work–life balance" was just a myth. This is an interesting question because often in our society the idea of work–life balance is held up as the secret to joy, contentment, and peace of mind. Yet, in our consumer culture, material gratification is continuously encouraged, we feel
- [The Key to Being Emotionally Fulfilled in Your Work](https://institutefc.org/the-key-to-being-emotionally-fulfilled-in-your-work/) - Have you ever felt that your best wasn’t good enough? Maybe it was something a boss or coworker said or did not say about your performance. Do you struggle with feelings of failure because you’re comparing your work and accomplishments to others? HR experts Tony Schwartz and Christine Porath suggest that employees are vastly more
- [Do Churches Today Understand Faith and Work?](https://institutefc.org/do-churches-today-understand-faith-and-work/) - Have you ever heard someone say, “Did you hear about Jim Smith? He quit his job at the bank to go into full-time Christian service.” I would guess many of us have actually said something very similar. In the church today, we still believe some jobs are more spiritual than others. And when it comes
- [Christian, What’s Your Impact in the Business Arena?](https://institutefc.org/christian-whats-your-impact-in-the-business-arena/) - "make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody" (1 Thess. 4:11-12). If Christians are called to bring
- [What the Parable of the Talents Says About Harsh Bosses](https://institutefc.org/what-the-parable-of-the-talents-says-about-harsh-bosses/) - One of our readers recently posed a question about our blog entitled 5 Lessons For Our Lives from the Parable of the Talents. The reader writes: I clearly see the lessons stated in his article as written in the scripture. The only thing I don’t understand is, shouldn’t there be some significance placed on the
- [Why the 'Loneliness Epidemic' Threatens Human Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/why-the-loneliness-epidemic-threatens-human-flourishing/) - According to news headlines, there’s a growing “loneliness epidemic” in the West. Jeremy Linneman writes that as a society we’ve turned inwards in our search for meaning and wrongly assumed that connecting on Facebook can fill our need for community: As disenchanted individuals searching for our true selves in all the wrong places, we must remember we aren’t
- [Can We Actually Celebrate Work on Labor Day?](https://institutefc.org/can-we-actually-celebrate-work-on-labor-day/) - Labor Day, celebrated the first Monday in September, was created by the labor movement of the 19th century and is a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of the United States. It's interesting that a day set aside to honor hard work is celebrated by not working.
- [Gaining Perspective in a Quarter-Life Crisis](https://institutefc.org/gaining-perspective-in-a-quarter-life-crisis/) - By age 30, many young people today are asking themselves the same questions that a 50-year-old would ask, “It this as good as it gets? Why aren’t I living the dream? Am I a failure?” That’s what author Rachel Jones writes about in her new book, Is This It? It’s not a mid-life crisis they’re
- [How Easter Changes Everything About Your Work](https://institutefc.org/how-easter-changes-everything-about-your-work/) - In Dante’s poem Inferno, a sign was posted on the gates of Hell that read: Abandon all hope, ye who enter here! Today many would suggest that the same sign should hang above the entrance to their workplaces. It's clear that we need hope, and sometimes we need it while at work. In previous posts, we discussed
- [Bivocational Ministry Through a Faith and Work Lens](https://institutefc.org/bivocational-ministry-through-a-faith-and-work-lens/) - We recently received an email from one of our readers asking if we had written anything specific about bivocational ministry. It came from someone who runs a small company and serves as the pastor of a small church, which is quite common both in the United States and around the world. In fact, a recent
- [Your Calling Is More than a Job or Career](https://institutefc.org/your-calling-is-more-than-a-job-or-career/) - Richard Leider and David Shapiro, in their book, Repacking Your Bags: Lighten Your Load for the Rest of Your Life, found that the number-one fear of most people is having lived a meaningless life. They are not the only ones observing this trend. In a 2014 survey, the Barna Group reported that 75 percent of
- [Building Businesses that Glorify God and Create Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/building-businesses-that-glorify-god-and-create-flourishing/) - Almost all of us can remember a time in our lives when God, through his Holy Spirit used something, a comment from someone, a scene in a movie, or a couple of lines from something we are reading to radically impact our lives. One of these seminal events happened to me over 25 years ago,
- [If You Inherited a Fortune Today, Would You Be at Work Tomorrow?](https://institutefc.org/if-you-inherited-a-fortune-today-would-you-be-at-work-tomorrow/) - Editor’s Note: Hugh Whelchel’s seminal book, How Then Should We Work: Rediscovering the Biblical Doctrine of Work, is now available on Audible! The following is an excerpt from Chapter 1. The arena was packed with over 5,000 businesspeople attending a one-day motivational conference. They would listen to some of today’s greatest inspirational speakers including General
- [What is God’s Design for Labor?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-gods-design-for-labor/) - Editor's Note: Hugh Whelchel was a guest on the radio program, The World and Everything in It, on Labor Day, September 7, 2020. Below is a transcript of that conversation, which you can listen to here. We encourage you to subscribe to the show on whichever platform you get your podcasts! MARY REICHARD, HOST: It’s Monday
- [The Heartbreaking Contradiction About Our Longing for Significance](https://institutefc.org/the-heartbreaking-contradiction-about-our-longing-for-significance/) - This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” – Matthew 6:9-10 “It is both fascinating and heartbreaking that most people long for significance and at the same time believe they’re nothing more than the product
- [Five Things That I Wish Someone Had Told Me After Graduation](https://institutefc.org/five-things-that-i-wish-someone-had-told-me-after-graduation/) - Some of us never really got any good advice nor had good mentors early in our careers. We were left to fend for ourselves and as a result, made many mistakes. After a lifetime of work, here are five biblical truths that I wish someone had told me when I graduated. Your Work Matters to
- [Let’s Examine Our Motivations for Work](https://institutefc.org/lets-examine-our-motivations-for-work/) - If asked, "Why work?" most of us would answer pragmatically, “To pay our bills.” Yet, our culture has promoted the long-term idea that we work so someday we can retire. The concept of retirement revolves around withdrawing from one’s work or labor to enjoy life to the fullest without obligation, commitment, or worry. In other
- [Work is Hard, Should We Seek Leisure Instead?](https://institutefc.org/work-is-hard-should-we-seek-leisure-instead/) - According to the Wall Street Journal: “The COVID economic shock has unleashed unprecedented creative destruction, sharply accelerating the transformation that we once quaintly called the “future of work.” Others suggest that this new normal “Work 2.0” was inevitable. With Millennials comprising most of today’s workforce, including their common demand for relaxed office environments and flexible
- [Kingdom-Transcendent Work is Better than Self-Transcendent 'Purpose'](https://institutefc.org/kingdom-transcendent-work-is-better-than-self-transcendent-purpose/) - “To engage young people, education needs to be about religious or social values that transcend preparing for a job,” suggests Mark Oppenheimer in a recent WSJ article. He argues there is a consensus among scholars that illustrates the power of connecting education to what the University of Texas psychologist David S. Yaeger calls “self-transcendent purpose.”
- [The Definition of Success & The Most Important Parable About Work](https://institutefc.org/the-definition-of-success-the-most-important-parable-about-work/) - Editor’s note: Hugh Whelchel was recently featured in an interview with Praxis Circle. Below are a few highlights of that conversation, which you can watch in full here. One of the things I’ve really struggled with as a business person and a churchgoer and a leader in my church is that I would go sit
- [Why I Will Work Until The Day I Die](https://institutefc.org/why-i-will-work-until-the-day-i-die/) - Editor’s note: Hugh Whelchel was recently featured in an interview with Praxis Circle. Below are a few highlights of that conversation, which you can watch in full here. I have had some problems with my breathing the last year and a half. I’ve gone to doctor after doctor after doctor trying to figure out what
- [Pentecost's Power to Transform the World through Work](https://institutefc.org/pentecosts-power-to-transform-the-world-through-work/) - This coming Monday is “Whit Monday,” traditionally the day after the Christian holy day of Pentecost, which is this Sunday. Interestingly, “Whit Monday” is still an official government holiday in many Western European countries, whereas evangelical Christians in the U.S. don’t have a holiday to help remind them of the important events this day represents.
- [How To Actually Celebrate Work on Labor Day](https://institutefc.org/how-to-actually-celebrate-work-on-labor-day/) - Labor Day, celebrated the first Monday in September, was created by the labor movement of the 19th century and is a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of the United States. It’s interesting that a day set aside to honor hard work is celebrated by not working.
- [Heavenly Displays & Earthly Work: Glimpsing God's Eternal Glory](https://institutefc.org/heavenly-displays-earthly-work-glimpsing-gods-eternal-glory/) - Editor's note: Hugh Whelchel, IFWE founder and long-time executive director, passed away on Good Friday after a four-year battle with ALS. You can read more about his life and legacy here. He wrote this article after the solar eclipse in 2017. God’s Original Intent for His Creation You are clothed with splendor and majesty, covering
- [This is What You Were Made For: Genesis 1 & Your Calling](https://institutefc.org/this-is-what-you-were-made-for-genesis-1-your-calling/) - "God has created us in his image so that we may carry out a task, fulfill a mission, pursue a calling." — Anthony A. Hoekema, Created in God’s Image When most people think about the book of Genesis, certain questions usually come to mind: Did God create the world in six ordinary days? Were these "days" great
- [Creativity, Purpose, Freedom: Our Three Pillars](https://institutefc.org/creativity-purpose-freedom-our-three-pillars/) - Welcome to the Institute for Faith, Work & Economics (IFWE) Blog – a discussion space for a variety of voices on the topics of faith, work, and economics. We’ve chosen to call our blog Creativity. Purpose. Freedom. These three words convey who we are as an organization and what we want to accomplish. These concepts
- [Is Work a Curse?: The Cultural Mandate (Part 1)](https://institutefc.org/is-work-a-curse-the-cultural-mandate-1/) - The difference between barbarism and culture is, simply, work. —Lester DeKoster I have an odd collection: a business card from every job I have worked since college and it is a large stack. At last count I have worked in seven different industries and the number of jobs…I have lost count (guess I could count
- [Why to 'Reweave Shalom' at Your Job](https://institutefc.org/why-to-reweave-shalom-at-your-job/) - We have been talking about the Cultural Mandate found in Genesis 1:28, And God blessed them. And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves
- [What the Cultural Mandate Means for Your Work](https://institutefc.org/what-it-means-to-be-a-steward-at-your-job/) - When you tried to figure out what to do with your life, I bet you didn’t go to the book of Genesis for direction. But as we’ve been seeing in these past few posts on the Cultural Mandate, God’s first job description for humankind still holds true for our lives today as Christians. But what
- [Hope for Christians in the Secular Workplace](https://institutefc.org/hope-for-christians-in-the-secular-workplace/) - “Co-belligerency can make a certain kind of sense, if you have your wits about you.” Doug Wilson The Christian employee, surrounded by non-Christians at work, can take great hope from the doctrine of common grace. Scott Kauffmann, writes in The Problem of Good, Common grace helps us to acknowledge that there are times to
- [What Race Are You Running?](https://institutefc.org/what-race-are-you-running/) - Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary,
- [Securing the Promise: the Hope of the Kingdom of God](https://institutefc.org/the-kingdom-of-god/) - The future has invaded the present. The Kingdom of God which is yet to come in power and glory had already come in a secret and hidden form to work among men and within them.” -George Eldon Ladd Isn’t this quote from George Ladd the story we read on the opening pages of the book
- [John Calvin's Contribution to the Biblical Doctrine of Work](https://institutefc.org/john-calvin-doctrine-of-work/) - During the Reformation, John Calvin, along with Martin Luther and others, helped Christians rediscover the biblical doctrine of work. Calvin held a dynamic view of calling, believing that every Christian has a vocational calling to serve God in the world in every sphere of human existence, lending a new dignity and meaning to ordinary work. He
- [Are Christians Living to Consume?](https://institutefc.org/are-christians-living-to-consume/) - Oh Lord, won't you buy me a Mercedes-Benz?/My friends all drive Porsches, I must make amends/Worked hard all my lifetime, no help from my friends/So Lord, won't you buy me a Mercedes-Benz? - Janis Joplin, "Mercedes-Benz" In my last post, I suggested that God made us to produce quality goods and services as a product
- [Five Lessons for Our Lives from the Parable of the Talents](https://institutefc.org/five-lessons-for-our-lives-from-the-parable-of-the-talents/) - How should Christians think about work, success, and wealth? I was recently asked by byFaith magazine to write an article answering these tough questions. As I thought about how to approach these topics, I realized the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14-30 provides a helpful framework for thinking about them. While we've talked a lot
- [What Is Flourishing?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-flourishing/) - The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. - Psalm 92:12-13 I recently came across an interesting article in World magazine, written by Anthony Bradley, a professor at The King's College in
- [Why Is Personal Vision Important?](https://institutefc.org/why-is-personal-vision-important/) - Where there is no vision, the people perish. - Proverbs 29:18 Last week we began exploring five tools for applying biblical principles to all of life, including how we approach work and economics. Personal vision is the first of the five tools, or mental models, we want to discuss. It starts with understanding who God
- [Putting Virtue into Practice, Part 1](https://institutefc.org/putting-virtue-into-practice-part-1/) - Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. - Philippians 4:8 Last week, we began exploring how the gifts and talents God gives us are to be used within a framework of virtue.
- [Putting Virtue Into Practice, Part 2](https://institutefc.org/putting-virtue-into-practice-part-2/) - For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or
- [What It Means to Be Made in God's Image](https://institutefc.org/what-it-means-to-be-made-in-gods-image/) - Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male
- [How the Protestant Work Ethic Became the Atheist Work Ethic](https://institutefc.org/the-atheist-work-ethic/) - America’s vaunted Protestant work ethic is getting a makeover: Now it might be more of an atheist work ethic. So begins a recent article by Kimberly Winston posted at the Religion News Service website. She goes on to write about a new study published in the Journal of Institutional Economics, which shows an inverse relationship
- [Can You Be Compassionate and Competitive?](https://institutefc.org/is-competition-sinful-2/) - During last week’s panel on our newly launched book, For the Least of These: A Biblical Answer to Poverty, at the American Enterprise Institute, we discussed free enterprise as a way to eliminate poverty. But are we contradicting ourselves? After all, a free enterprise system involves competition within the marketplace. Are competition and compassion compatible?
- [Seven Reasons to Celebrate Work on Labor Day](https://institutefc.org/seven-reasons-to-celebrate-work-on-labor-day/) - It is interesting that Labor Day, a day set aside to honor the hard work and achievement of America's laborers, is celebrated by not working. So while you enjoy your holiday, here are seven biblical reasons to celebrate work on Labor Day. Work Is Ordained by God The Bible begins with God working in the
- [Does God Want You to Be Happy?](https://institutefc.org/does-god-want-you-to-be-happy/) - Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. - Psalm 37:4-6 “You are responsible to keep yourself happy,” Joel Osteen writes in
- [Gospel Flourishing and the Search for Happiness](https://institutefc.org/gospel-flourishing-and-the-search-for-happiness/) - I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living
- [Happiness in the Old and New Testaments Is Different from the Usual Definition. Here's Why.](https://institutefc.org/happiness-in-the-old-and-new-testaments/) - In my last post I suggested that God wants us to be happy, but we must understand how to define happiness from a biblical perspective. True happiness can't be derived from external circumstances. The words for "bless" and "blessed" in both the Old and New Testaments illustrate why this is true. Happiness and Blessing in the
- [Has Our Culture Forgotten the Importance of Being Made in the Image of God?](https://institutefc.org/made-in-the-image-of-god/) - So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. - Genesis 1:27 “Black lives matter. All lives matter. These slogans may forever summarize the deep tensions in American life in 2014,” writes Dr. Anthony B. Bradley in a recent commentary for the Acton
- [What Is the Mission of God's People?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-the-mission-of-gods-people/) - Today, when most Evangelicals think about Genesis 1, these questions come to mind: Did God create the world in six ordinary days? Were these "days" great ages or epochs? How should we understand the theory of evolution in light of Genesis 1? Moses was probably not concerned with these questions when he wrote the opening
- [Relationships are Integral to the Mission of God's People](https://institutefc.org/relationships-are-integral-to-the-mission-of-gods-people/) - Near the end of the sixth day of the creation story we read, “Then God said, Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness...” The phrase, "Let us make man in our image" reveals a lot about our own nature and about the nature of God. We are Relational as God Is Relational
- [Taking Belief Into the Public Square](https://institutefc.org/taking-belief-into-the-public-square/) - Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.
- [Does Belief Belong In the Marketplace?](https://institutefc.org/does-belief-belong-in-the-marketplace/) - Christians, when rightly informed and motivated, change the character of political debate. They bring the moral standards of God’s kingdom into the civic realm and thereby become agents of His common grace — of His provision for those who believe as well as those who don’t. - Richard Doster, byFaith This is the third post in
- [Have We Hidden the Light of the Gospel?](https://institutefc.org/have-we-hidden-the-light-of-the-gospel/) - You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your
- [The Truth About Missionaries](https://institutefc.org/the-truth-about-missionaries/) - Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And
- [How the Supreme Court Could Impact Our Work](https://institutefc.org/how-a-supreme-court-descision-could-impact-our-work/) - Today, the Supreme Court will hear the oral arguments for Sebelius v. Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc. and Conestoga Wood Specialties Corp. v. Sebelius, two cases in which business owners are facing pressure to provide employees with insurance coverage for all contraceptives under the Affordable Care Act. On January 21st, IFWE joined thirty-six individuals and organizations
- [Hobby Lobby: A Victory for Religious Freedom and the Christian View of Work](https://institutefc.org/hobby-lobby-religious-freedom-supreme-court/) - The Institute for Faith, Work & Economics (IFWE) commends the Supreme Court’s decision in Sebelius v. Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc. for honoring religious freedom and the Christian view of work. It indicates the Court's intention to preserve religious rights, at least for now. As I have written in previous blogs, we in the United States
- [Do You Have a Relentless Drive for Flourishing?](https://institutefc.org/the-relentless-drive-for-flourishing/) - Wake Forest University has launched Thrive, a new initiative dedicated to the well-being of students, faculty, and staff that goes beyond academic performance. This new initiative includes eight markers of well-being: emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual. Wake Forest is attempting something beyond trying to ensure students, faculty and staff are happy. Penny
- [Your Relationships Play an Essential Role in Biblical Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/relationships-and-biblical-flourishing/) - Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” - Genesis 1:26 Human flourishing is one of the key biblical themes woven throughout
- [Flourishing Begins with Filling the God-Shaped Hole in Your Heart](https://institutefc.org/flourishing-begins-with-filling-the-god-shaped-hole-in-your-heart/) - I once heard a pastor say in his sermon, “Inside each of us is a God-shaped hole…a place inside of our hearts that only God can fill.” This is not a new idea. In 398 AD, St. Augustine of Hippo wrote in his Confessions: “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts
- [The One Thing You Need to Know Yourself Better](https://institutefc.org/know-yourself-better/) - Relationships are essential for human flourishing. One of those relationships is with ourselves - understanding we have inherent value and dignity because we're created in God's image. But we have a broken relationship with ourselves. We've forgotten why we were created, and what it is God created us to do. How can this be fixed?
- [Flourishing Requires Fixing Our Broken Relationships. But Where Do We Start?](https://institutefc.org/fixing-broken-relationships/) - Sin has consequences. It seems obvious, but sin has had a detrimental impact on our ability to flourish. This is because sin has damaged the relationships that are so central to flourishing - with God, with ourselves, and with others. Sin Alters Our Relationships with Others The effects of Adam and Eve’s sin were not
- [Is the Faith and Work Message an Attempt to Earn Our Own Salvation?](https://institutefc.org/faith-and-work-vs-works-righteousness/) - Recently I was speaking on faith and work at a conference and someone asked, “Aren’t you just talking about works righteousness?” I assured them I wasn't, but I can see how it could've sounded that way. I'm not the only one running into this problem. Several years ago Mark Roberts at The High Calling interviewed
- [We All Dream of Finding Meaningful Work. But Can It Really Be Found?](https://institutefc.org/the-dream-of-meaningful-work/) - Everyone desires to find meaningful work. For Christians, the question of meaningful work might actually be a trick question. We All Dream of Finding Meaningful Work Research done last year by the Barna Group shows that 75 percent of U.S. adults say they are looking for ways to live a more meaningful life. Only nineteen
- [Can Christians in Business Transform Our Culture?](https://institutefc.org/can-christians-in-business-transform-our-culture/) - Hollywood's demonizing of business is nothing new. Who can forget iconic characters like Mr. Potter in It's a Wonderful Life, Gordon Gekko in Wall Street, or even President Business in The Lego Movie? The anti-business themes in these movies reflect a negative perception about the role of business in our society, a misperception that almost
- [The Role of Religion in America's Founding](https://institutefc.org/the-role-of-religion-in-americas-founding/) - As we prepare to celebrate the 239th anniversary of the signing of Declaration of Independence, far too many Americans have bought into the idea that the American founding was a product of the Enlightenment and a strictly secular development. This should not be a surprise. Most history books in today’s schools have removed anything about
- [Four Powerful Ways Christians Can Fight Back against Alienation by Being Salt and Light](https://institutefc.org/four-powerful-ways-christians-can-fight-back-against-alienation/) - The concept of alienation was important to Karl Marx. As he defined it, workers were alienated from the product of their labors. Today alienation has a broader meaning, usually referring to powerlessness. Whenever you feel politically or economically powerless, you feel alienated. The late John Stott opens his classic article, Four Ways Christians Can Influence the
- [Beyond Profits: Businesses Thriving by Putting People First](https://institutefc.org/beyond-profits-businesses-thriving-by-putting-people-first/) - Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24 Within most companies, you will find three types of people. The first type
- [Are We Really Out of Big Ideas?](https://institutefc.org/are-we-really-out-of-big-ideas/) - We’re all aware that we’re hip deep in the “Tech Age.” In a recent Wall Street Journal op-ed, Greg Ip observes: By all appearances, we’re in a golden age of innovation. Every month sees new advances in artificial intelligence, gene therapy, robotics and software apps. Research and development as a share of gross domestic product
- [Are Transparency and Integrity the Same Thing?](https://institutefc.org/transparency-integrity-not-same-thing/) - Apple is the latest corporate villain in the spotlight after iPhone owners discovered their older phones had slowed down after the launch of software updates starting in 2017. A recent Wall Street Journal article reports some iPhone users are alleging Apple mischaracterized a battery problem in response to consumer complaints about slowed processing in iPhone
- [Religious Freedom and the Supreme Court’s Cakeshop Decision](https://institutefc.org/religious-freedom-supreme-courts-cakeshop-decision/) - In a highly anticipated decision, the Supreme Court ruled Monday on the Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission (CCRC) case. In a 7 to 2 ruling, the Court overturned the decision of the lower Colorado court, which is good news. Unfortunately, the Supreme Court did not resolve the broader issue of whether a business owner has the
- [True Tolerance vs. Moral Relativism in the Workplace ](https://institutefc.org/true-tolerance-vs-moral-relativism-in-the-workplace/) - In our rapidly changing culture, tolerance has been enshrined as one of the ultimate virtues. Yet what exactly is tolerance? As believers, is tolerance something we should embrace or avoid? Perhaps the bigger question no one seems to be asking is, what’s the real result of “tolerance" in the workplace? True vs. False Tolerance In
- [How the 2010s Gave Us Unlimited Choices, but Little Meaning](https://institutefc.org/the-2010s-gave-us-unlimited-choices-but-little-meaning/) - As we close out the second decade of the 21st century, it is good to stop and think about where we are in God’s redemptive plan. In a recent article in the Wall Street Journal, Jonathan Sacks writes: Science, technology, the free market and the liberal democratic state have enabled us to reach unprecedented achievements
- [Engaging Unbelieving Coworkers with Scientific Proof of God](https://institutefc.org/engaging-unbelieving-coworkers-with-scientific-proof-of-god/) - We continue to hear about the rise of "religiously unaffiliated agnostics and atheists" from sources like Pew Research. Polls also show that these groups are younger and well-informed regarding religion and the reasons for rejecting the existence of God. They argue that they have science on their side. This should not surprise us. Over the
- [Fulfillment](https://institutefc.org/fulfillment/) - You wake up in the morning hoping your actions will have purpose. You want the work you do during the day to be affirmed, to be directed towards a meaningful end, and to have an impact on the lives of those around you. You want to lie down at night and feel satisfied, content that
- [Honoring God with Healthy and Efficient Routines](https://institutefc.org/honoring-god-with-healthy-and-efficient-routines/) - We are called to honor God in all things. One way we honor God and care for ourselves as God intended is through creating health promoting routines.
- [Peace Amid Cultural Chaos](https://institutefc.org/peace-amid-cultural-chaos/) - The world inundates us with stresses and fears. But Christians have an untapped resource to whether the storms of life, enabling us to glorify God in the midst of our anxieties.
- [We Are Not Destined to Self-Sabotage](https://institutefc.org/we-are-not-destined-to-self-sabotage/) - Sin leads us to self-sabotage. Even when nothing is standing in our way, we fail to achieve the goals we aim for. But God offers us a better way.
- [The Desire to Control](https://institutefc.org/the-desire-to-control/) - The desire to control is common, but it doesn't lead to true security. Scripture reveals the path to peace is trusting God’s sovereignty and provision for you.
- [What Is Greed?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-greed/) - The point is, ladies and gentleman, that greed -- for lack of a better word -- is good. Greed is right. Greed works. Greed clarifies, cuts through, and captures the essence of the evolutionary spirit. Greed, in all of its forms - greed for life, for money, for love, knowledge - has marked the upward
- [Writing Your Personal Vision](https://institutefc.org/writing-your-personal-vision/) - Alice came to a fork in the road. "Which road do I take?" she asked. "Where do you want to go?" responded the Cheshire Cat. "I don't know," Alice answered. "Then," said the Cat, "It doesn't matter." - Lewis Carroll, Alice In Wonderland As I wrote in my last post, discovering one's personal vision is perhaps
- [Why I Am Not A Plumber](https://institutefc.org/why-i-am-not-a-plumber/) - Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that
- [Why Humility Matters for Faith, Work, & Economics](https://institutefc.org/why-humility-matters-faith-work-economics/) - All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. -2 Timothy 3:16-17 The Apostle Paul tells Timothy that the Holy Scriptures prepare God’s people to be “thoroughly equipped for every good work.” That includes not
- [Should Christians Set Goals?](https://institutefc.org/should-christians-set-goals/) - Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit”— yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.
- [Why is Vocation Missing From Today's Churches?](https://institutefc.org/why-is-vocation-missing-from-todays-churches/) - Have you every heard someone say, “Did you hear about Jim Smith? He quit his job at the bank to go into full time Christian service.” I would guess many of us have actually said something very similar. In the church today we still believe some jobs are more spiritual that others. And when it
- [Two Ways Our Views of Vocation are Distorted](https://institutefc.org/two-ways-our-views-of-vocation-are-distorted/) - We are confronted with a wall between personal faith and public work, here at the beginning of the 21st century. The wall has been raised by two distortions of the purpose of our work. Os Guinness in his book The Call: Finding and Fulfilling the Central Purpose of Your Life, describes them as the two grand
- [What are Our Primary & Secondary Callings?](https://institutefc.org/what-are-our-primary-secondary-callings/) - The doctrine of vocation was developed with its greatest rigor by Martin Luther, John Calvin, and the other reformers, as we have seen before. They believed that our first call is to follow Jesus out of darkness into light and out of death into life. This "principal calling" includes a call to faith in Christ
- [Different Jobs and Careers, Same Calling in Christ](https://institutefc.org/different-jobs-same-calling-in-christ/) - As we suggested in our last post, our careers, occupations and jobs may change throughout our lifetime. Our vocational calling, however, remains constant. This can be confusing, especially as we look at the work of our church pastors, whose vocational calling is usually the same as their careers, occupations, or jobs. Yet for the rest
- [Your Work Influences Community](https://institutefc.org/your-work-influences-community/) - Work makes us interdependent. Work cultivates the resources of the material and human universe. Work is the form in which we make ourselves useful to others; civilization is the form in which others make themselves useful to us. Work unifies the human race and carries out the will of God. Lester DeKoster in his book, Work: The
- [Work as a Part of Our Worldview](https://institutefc.org/work-as-a-part-of-our-worldview/) - As we complete this series on the biblical doctrine of work and the church today, we discover a clue for how we can revive the neglected Biblical doctrine of work in Francis Schaeffer's prophetic work A Christian Manifesto. In the 1980s Schaeffer wrote this about the United States: The basic problem of Christians in this
- [Why Religious Freedom Matters for Our Work](https://institutefc.org/why-religious-freedom-matters-for-our-work/) - For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” - Galatians 5:13-14 (ESV) There is a great scene in the movie Braveheart were
- [What Recent Events in Houston Mean for Religious Freedom](https://institutefc.org/religious-freedom-in-houston/) - Last week the city of Houston issued subpoenas demanding that five local pastors turn over their sermons to be scrutinized for "objectionable" material. The subpoenas came to light when attorneys for the group of pastors filed a motion to stop the request. The pastors were apparently part of a petition drive against a "non-discrimination" ordinance
- [Should We Stand for Religious Freedom in  Houston?](https://institutefc.org/religious-freedom-in-houston-2/) - I will use them to test Israel and see whether the will keep the way of the LORD and walk in it as their ancestors did. - Judges 2:22 This week has brought some interesting developments to the story of the Houston mayor who issued subpoenas demanding that five local pastors turn over their sermons
- [How Should Christians Think about Election Day?](https://institutefc.org/how-should-christians-think-about-election-day/) - How should Christians think about election day and political elections in general? Citizenship in a free country like the United States is a great blessing from God. Our system of self-government assures everyone a voice in the affairs of the nation. As Christians, our participation in this great American experiment enables us to bring a
- [What George Washington Teaches Us about Thanksgiving and God's Providence](https://institutefc.org/washington-thanksgiving-and-gods-providence/) - In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. - Proverbs 16:9 It was George Washington who, in his first year as president, originally set aside Thursday, November 26th, 1789 as "A Day of Publick Thanksgiving and Prayer." There certainly had been many Thanksgiving observances in America before Washington’s proclamation. The colonists of
- [Have Christians Lost the Ability to Be in the World, but Not of It?](https://institutefc.org/in-the-world-not-of-it/) - Scripture tells us Christians are called to be in the world but not of it. The inability to do this has robbed the church of its witness over the last 100 years. The secular has absorbed the sacred in the lives of many Christians today. Far too many of us have been conformed to
- [Does the Everyday Mundane Matter?](https://institutefc.org/does-the-everyday-mundane-matter/) - Do you believe the everyday activity of ordinary Christians has deep religious significance? The answer really depends on when in the history of the church you ask it. Prior to the Reformation, Christians in the medieval church would have answered no. They believed only priests did spiritual work. All other activity was secular. It was
- [The New Face of Christian Social Activism](https://institutefc.org/the-new-face-of-christian-social-activism/) - A recent New York Times op-ed examines differing visions of cultural engagement among American Christians. What are these competing visions? As the op-ed describes, there are those "calling for culture war as usual." These evangelical leaders are sticking with previous models of engagement, like Jerry Falwell's Moral Majority. On the other side is a growing number of
- ['How Is Your Spiritual Life?' Is the Wrong Question to Ask](https://institutefc.org/the-wrong-question-to-ask/) - If you took an inventory of what you did yesterday, what percentage of your time would you label as spiritual? What percentage would you label as secular? I recently read "10 ways your Smartphone can help your spiritual life", an article implying that we already know how to use our smartphones in the other part
- [Are Christians Concerned about Religious Freedom?](https://institutefc.org/are-christians-concerned-about-religious-freedom/) - There is not a single instance in history in which civil liberty was lost, and religious liberty preserved entire. If therefore we yield up our temporal property, we at the same time deliver the conscience into bondage. - John Witherspoon, The Dominion of Providence Over the Passions of Men Are Christians today concerned about religious
- [Religious Liberty Depends on the Family. One of the First Colonial Families Shows Us Why.](https://institutefc.org/family-and-religious-liberty/) - From below deck a newborn infant’s cry pierced the cold November air. It was November 20, 1620. The new baby’s name was Peregrine White. He was the first child born in New England of English parents, born on the Mayflower anchored in what is now called Provincetown Harbor. His parents, William and Susanna White, along
- [Are Christians Defining 'Religious Freedom' Correctly?](https://institutefc.org/are-christians-defining-religious-freedom-correctly/) - A recent Barna Group study reveals a significant rise in fears regarding religious freedom in America. More than three-quarters of American evangelical Christians surveyed said, "Religious liberty is worse off today than ten years ago." David Kinnaman, Barna's president, directed the research. He concludes: Based upon the fact that millions of Americans see an escalating
- [The Surprising Link between James Madison, Baptists, and True Religious Liberty](https://institutefc.org/madison-baptists-religious-liberty/) - A young college graduate living at home with his parents discovers a great injustice that shapes the future of a nation. Sounds unbelievable, right? It's true, and it's an incredibly important, often overlooked moment in American history. James Madison and the Baptists Sometime between the years of 1772-1775, James Madison heard about a number of
- [Is Religious Liberty Biblical?](https://institutefc.org/is-religious-liberty-biblical/) - "Thou shalt not encroach upon the religious liberty of your fellow citizens" is not something you will find in the Bible. The First Amendment guarantees the free exercise of religion, a broader concept than freedom of worship. It covers the right to live a faith-based life in the public square. Is this a biblical idea
- [What's Wrong with Tolerance?](https://institutefc.org/whats-wrong-with-tolerance/) - You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means. - Inigo Montoya, The Princess Bride "Tolerance, not truth, is the new supreme virtue," D.A. Carson writes in his book The Intolerance of Tolerance. He suggests that for two millennia, Western civilization viewed tolerance as a virtue closely connected
- [Can Biblical Stewardship Save the Nation?](https://institutefc.org/can-biblical-stewardship-save-the-nation/) - In his 2012 book Coming Apart, Charles Murray argues that the middle class, once seen as the "virtuous silent majority," is alienated from the "founding virtues" of civic life. "Our nation is coming apart at the seams," he warns, "not ethnic seams but the seams of class." Murray claims that the middle class is losing
- [Jesus Showed Us That Being Salt and Light Is True Power](https://institutefc.org/being-salt-and-light/) - Over the last few months, I've talked to many Christians who fear they are living in a world that is spinning out of control - especially during a chaotic election season. They feel helpless, without the power to do anything about it. I like to share with them "Four Ways Christians Can Influence the World,"
- [Four Reasons Religious Freedom Matters for Society](https://institutefc.org/four-reasons-religious-freedom-matters-for-society/) - Religious freedom bears implications for our lives, just like the biblical view of freedom and economic freedom. In fact, religious freedom is entwined with these other freedoms. The amount of religious freedom we possess impacts our ability to flourish. As the following list will show, religious freedom impacts a range of things necessary for building
- [Principled, Practical Ways for Christians to Think about Election Season](https://institutefc.org/christians-and-election-season/) - Last night's vice presidential debate helped me solidify some thoughts that have been percolating in my head for awhile now, thoughts concerning how Christians can think about election day and political elections in general. As Christians, our participation in this great American experiment enables us to bring a biblical influence to our culture. While this
- [It's the Day after the Election. Do We Still Believe God Is Sovereign?](https://institutefc.org/after-the-election-is-god-still-sovereign/) - Theologian R. C. Sproul once said, "God doesn’t roll dice." Nothing ever happens by chance. Scripture makes this clear. Consider Ruth in the Old Testament. Ruth "happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz" (Ruth 2:3). A more literal translation of the Hebrew would actually read, "Her chance chanced upon," or,
- ["Will We Conform or Transform?": Learning from the Life of Daniel about Living in Today's Culture](https://institutefc.org/learning-from-the-life-of-daniel/) - Yesterday, writing about God's sovereignty after the election, I quoted a few passages from the book of Daniel. Daniel continues to be a model for how Christians should live in the world today, and I want to explore his life more in depth. Like Daniel and the other Hebrew exiles, you may feel like a
- [A Quick Look at the Role of the Bible in Presidential Inaugurations](https://institutefc.org/the-bible-in-presidential-inaugurations/) - Today, President-elect Donald Trump will place his hand on a Bible and take the oath of office to become the forty-fifth President of the United States. The inauguration ceremony has changed over the years, but the use of the Bible has remained the same. For over two hundred years, presidents have used different Bibles for
- [Why Virtue Is Inseparable from Democracy](https://institutefc.org/why-virtue-is-inseparable-from-democracy/) - To our Founding Fathers it was obvious, or “self-evident,” that self-government, or a democratic republic, could only be perpetuated by the self-governed…To this end, the Founders fundamentally believed that the ability to govern ourselves rests with our individual and collective virtue (or character). —The Washington, Jefferson & Madison Institute Blog Almost all the founding fathers—Washington,
- [Would a Culture without Christianity Be More Tolerant?](https://institutefc.org/would-a-culture-without-christianity-be-more-tolerant/) - The April edition of The Atlantic magazine featured a fascinating article, "Breaking faith: the culture war over religious morality has faded; in its place is something much worse." The author Peter Beinart begins with the following: Over the past decade, pollsters charted something remarkable: Americans—long known for their piety—were fleeing organized religion in increasing numbers.
- [The Mirage of Democratic Socialism: Why Are Millennials So Attracted?](https://institutefc.org/the-mirage-of-democratic-socialism-why-are-millennials-so-attracted/) - In a recent Wall Street Journal article, Warren Stephens asks the question, “Why do the young reject capitalism and at the same time celebrate entrepreneurs and free enterprise?” Stephens highlights a study done last year by the Institute of Politics at Harvard in which more than half of the respondents aged 18 to 29 said
- [How Beekeepers (and Capitalism) Are Saving our Food Supply Chain](https://institutefc.org/how-beekeepers-and-capitalism-are-saving-our-food-supply-chain/) - As a young boy in rural south Florida, I was fascinated by honey bees. I would watch the beekeepers come to the numerous hives dotted around the orange groves near my home. Using their smokers, they would open the hives and extract the delicious orange-blossom honey. I always thought that someday I would like to
- [The Power of Story: Why Our Post-Christian Culture Needs One Now](https://institutefc.org/the-power-of-story-why-our-post-christian-culture-needs-one-now/) - He who controls the past controls the future. He who controls the present controls the past. -- George Orwell, 1984 “How can we be living in a post-Christian culture when over 70 percent of Americans self-identify as Christian?” asked a man in his mid-thirties at a recent conference. While he is right, based on a recent
- [Christians in Business: The Triple Bottom Line Through a Biblical Lens](https://institutefc.org/christians-in-business-the-triple-bottom-line-through-a-biblical-lens/) - It used to be that a stable job with a large employer was part of the “American Dream.” Such is the reminder in the description of Rick Wartzman’s new book The End of Loyalty: The Rise and Fall of Good Jobs in America. Wartzman would not disagree that there are a lot of jobs available
- [Embrace the Diversity God Created, but Look at Culture Critically](https://institutefc.org/embrace-the-diversity-god-created-but-look-at-culture-critically/) - Most of us have heard the refrain that to reduce poverty in the U.S., we need to get young people to “graduate, get married, and have children” in that order. An article by the Brookings Institute several years ago supports this idea suggesting almost anyone can avoid poverty by: Graduating from high school. Waiting until
- [The Real Reason to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day](https://institutefc.org/real-reason-celebrate-st-patricks-day/) - On March 17, Irish culture enthusiasts around the world will dress in Kelly green and drink over 17 million pints of Guinness. The parties and parades commemorate the Feast of Saint Patrick, Ireland's most famous patron saint. This cultural and religious celebration is held on the traditional date of Saint Patrick's death in 461. Yet,
- [Why Christians, Muslims, and Hindus All Need Religious Freedom](https://institutefc.org/christians-muslims-hindus-religious-freedom/) - “[all men have] equal title to the free exercise of Religion according to the dictates of Conscience.” "…all men are equally entitled to the free exercise of religion." —James Madison, Article XVI, Virginia Declaration of Rights This language, crafted originally for the Virginia Declaration of Rights, would go on to be codified in the U.S. Constitution.
- [Can Christians Restore Virtue to Capitalism?](https://institutefc.org/can-christians-restore-virtue-to-capitalism/) - In a recent hearing, U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan questioned Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg about his company’s remarkable success by asking him, “Only in America, would you agree with that?” When Zuckerberg didn’t wholeheartedly agree, the senator responded, “You’re supposed to answer ‘yes’ to this question.” The audience laughed. Zuckerberg’s response should not surprise us. He
- [To Whom Much Is Given: Celebrating Freedom and America’s Independence Day](https://institutefc.org/to-whom-much-is-given-celebrating-freedom-and-americas-independence-day/) - We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — Thomas Jefferson, the U.S. Declaration of Independence Former U.S. Senate Chaplain Peter Marshall challenged Americans, “May we think of freedom,
- [Religious Freedom or Tolerance: Who Decides?](https://institutefc.org/religious-freedom-or-tolerance-who-decides/) - The idea of religious liberty has emerged as one of the unique contributions of the American experiment, but where did it originate? On May 6, 1776, thirty-two "sons of Virginia" representing every county of the state met in Williamsburg to pass a resolution calling for the Virginia delegates at the Continental Congress to move for
- [Called to Be Salt and Light in the World, Not in a Closet](https://institutefc.org/called-to-be-salt-and-light-in-the-world-not-in-a-closet/) - Two weeks ago, the Institute for Faith, Work & Economics (IFWE) hosted a symposium on religious freedom attended by more than twenty-five Christian scholars from around the country. The conference was part of a year-long IFWE project that is funded in part by The John Templeton Foundation. The group assembled was composed of men and
- [Bono: Capitalism Excels at Poverty Relief, but Needs a Moral Rudder](https://institutefc.org/bono-capitalism-excels-at-poverty-relief-but-needs-a-moral-rudder/) - Speaking to global business leaders at the recent World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, social activist and U2 frontman Bono made an interesting comment about capitalism. Capitalism is not immoral—it’s amoral. It requires our instruction. Capitalism has taken more people out of poverty than any other ‘ism.’ But it is a wild beast and, if
- [Why Our Pastors Need to Read the Founding Fathers](https://institutefc.org/why-our-pastors-need-to-read-the-founding-fathers/) - What role should religion play in our lives outside of church, including our workplace? While the founding fathers would have argued religion plays a critically important role, many today who are less influenced by Christianity or other faiths are not so sure. And as a recent four-year, Barna study concludes that would include a growing
- [Why Religious Freedom Matters for Human Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/why-religious-freedom-matters-for-human-flourishing/) - Why would a group like the Institute for Faith, Work & Economics focus on the topic of religious freedom and why should you care? This fall, IFWE is releasing a new book on religious freedom called Set Free: Restoring Religious for All (Abilene Christian University Press, Nov. 12, 2019). The book is part of an
- [New IFWE Book Equips Christians to Defend Religious Freedom for All](https://institutefc.org/new-ifwe-book-equips-christians-to-defend-religious-freedom-for-all/) - News developments over the past weeks have put religious freedom back on the front page. It's been a great reminder to us why IFWE's new book, Set Free: Restoring Religious Freedom for All is so timely and needed. First the bad news. This past week, a federal judge threw out a new "conscience rule" from
- [What Can We Learn from the Second Thanksgiving?](https://institutefc.org/what-can-we-learn-from-the-second-thanksgiving/) - Almost everyone knows the story of the first Thanksgiving. They know of the terrible winter of 1621, in which almost half of the Plymouth Bay Colony died. They've heard about how, with the help of the Native Americans, the colonists planted crops the following spring. By fall they harvested a great bounty. Governor William Bradford
- [In the Aftermath of the Election, Do We Still Believe God is Sovereign?](https://institutefc.org/after-the-election-do-we-still-believe-god-is-sovereign/) - Theologian R. C. Sproul once said, “God doesn’t roll dice.” Nothing ever happens by chance. Scripture makes this clear. Consider Ruth in the Old Testament. Ruth “happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz” (Ruth 2:3). A more literal translation of the Hebrew would actually read, “Her chance chanced upon,” or, as
- [To Whom Much Is Given: Remembering Religious Freedom in America](https://institutefc.org/to-whom-much-is-given-remembering-religious-freedom-in-america/) - We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — Thomas Jefferson, the U.S. Declaration of Independence Former U.S. Senate Chaplain Peter Marshall challenged Americans, “May we think of freedom,
- [The Pilgrims & Religious Freedom](https://institutefc.org/the-pilgrims-religious-freedom/) - On November 24, we will celebrate Thanksgiving and the 402nd anniversary of the Pilgrims crossing the Atlantic to land at Plymouth Rock. They made this perilous journey to the New World, seeking a place where they could live their lives according to their conscience informed by their Christian faith. Unfortunately today, too many of the
- [5 Practical Ways for Christians to Think About Election Season](https://institutefc.org/5-practical-ways-for-christians-to-think-about-election-season/) - As Christians, our participation in this great American experiment enables us to bring a biblical influence to our culture. While this is not a silver bullet that will fix all the ills of our society, it is a part of being salt and light in the part of the world where we live. Our call
- [Why Our Pastors Need To Read About Religious Freedom from the Founding Fathers](https://institutefc.org/why-our-pastors-need-to-read-about-religious-freedom-from-the-founding-fathers/) - What role should religion play in our lives outside of church, including our workplace? While the founding fathers would have argued religion plays a critically important role, many today who are less influenced by Christianity or other faiths are not so sure. And as a four-year Barna study from 2019 concludes that would include a
- [Christian Nationalism is Adulterous, Idolatrous, & Wrong](https://institutefc.org/christian-nationalism-is-adulterous-idolatrous-wrong/) - “Inconceivable," says Vizzini for about the fifth time in the classic movie Princess Bride. Inigo Montoya turns to Vizzini and says, “You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means.” Montoya’s memorable line could easily be applied to a term we hear today thrown around in articles, op-eds,
- [Celebrating Religious Freedom & America’s Independence Day: To Whom Much Is Given](https://institutefc.org/celebrating-religious-freedom-americas-independence-day-to-whom-much-is-given/) - We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — Thomas Jefferson, the U.S. Declaration of Independence Former U.S. Senate Chaplain Peter Marshall challenged Americans, “May we think of freedom,
- [If We Are All Made in God's Image, Why Are We All so Different?](https://institutefc.org/gods-image-why-are-we-all-different/) - If we are all made in God's image, why are we all so different? God intentionally made human beings diverse because he designed us to work together in relationship. This way we can achieve more by working together than we can individually. This core biblical principle is woven into the very fabric of creation. Economists
- [The Role of Profit in Responding to COVID-19](https://institutefc.org/the-role-of-profit-in-responding-to-covid-19/) - Why is there a new wave of COVID-19 growing across Europe? Here in the United States, we finally got some good news; we have more vaccines than people who want to take them. We’ve also watched in horror at the conditions in some of the poorer countries worldwide as COVID-19 continues to rage through their
- [How Are We Stewarding Our Freedom?](https://institutefc.org/how-are-we-stewarding-our-freedom/) - We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — Thomas Jefferson, the U.S. Declaration of Independence Former U.S. Senate Chaplain Peter Marshall challenged Americans, “May we think of freedom,
- [TikTok Capitalism](https://institutefc.org/tiktok-capitalism/) - "Like many young adults, I used to want an enjoyable and meaningful life," Rama says with a smile on her TikTok video with over 1.8 million views. "That is, until I discovered capitalism. Now, I live in a society where my productivity matters more than my well-being, and so I'm just depressed and anxious all
- [The Four-Chapter Gospel and Other Adventures](https://institutefc.org/faith-work-and-economics-our-journey-begins/) - The journey of integrating faith, work, and economics could be quite an adventure. Along the way, we'll meet new ideas that could shake things up a bit. Ever heard of the four-chapter gospel? Many of us having been living with a two-chapter gospel, and the implications of the shift are pretty significant. Our journey will
- [Tax Policy or Kingdom Stewardship?](https://institutefc.org/tax-policy-or-kingdom-stewardship/) - It has been interesting to see the reaction to President Obama’s use of the New Testament to support his tax policy at the National Prayer Breakfast last week. His remarks are relevant to our ongoing discussion on faith, work, and economics. Here is the President's quote in question: And when I talk about shared responsibility,
- [The Four-Chapter Gospel: The Grand Metanarrative Told by the Bible](https://institutefc.org/the-four-chapter-gospel-the-grand-metanarrative-told-by-the-bible/) - "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." (Gen 1:1) The Book of Genesis opens with the account of creation, the start of the most encompassing story that will ever be told. One of the reasons many Christians do not fully comprehend the biblical concepts of work, calling, and vocation is because
- [More Than Just a Bus Ticket: The Four-Chapter Gospel (Part 3)](https://institutefc.org/more-than-just-a-bus-ticket-the-four-chapter-gospel-part-3/) - As we said yesterday, today’s evangelical church has edited the Four-Chapter Gospel (creation, fall, redemption and restoration) down to two chapters (fall and redemption). The opening chapters of Genesis are now only used to argue creation vs. evolution and not to remind us that we are made in the image of God. Not only does
- [Finding Your Significance on a Mission from God: The Four-Chapter Gospel (Part 4)](https://institutefc.org/finding-your-significance-on-a-mission-from-god-the-four-chapter-gospel-part-4/) - In the 1980 movie The Blues Brothers the main characters Jake and Elwood said they were on a mission from God. They weren’t, but we are… In our last post on The Four-Chapter Gospel, we said there is an important practical reason to read the Bible as one narrative: it enables us to understand our
- [How Evangelicals Use the Bible Today: The Four-Chapter Gospel (Part 5)](https://institutefc.org/how-evangelicals-use-the-bible-today-the-four-chapter-gospel-part-5/) - Drawing our missional role from the metanarrative of Scripture as we discussed in our last post stands in stark contrast to the way most evangelical Christians use and understand the Bible today. A number of years ago I was invited to a new Bible study on the book of Galatians. The leader began by reading
- [Your Work is Dignifying](https://institutefc.org/your-work-is-dignifying/) - The same Cultural Mandate which God gave Adam and Eve also calls 21st century Christians to partner with Him in His work. From the beginning, God is prepared to entrust the “Garden” to man and for us to become His co-workers. Our stewardship role is a call for man to work with and for God. The
- [The Kingdom of God is our Workplace](https://institutefc.org/the-kingdom-of-god-is-our-workplace/) - We have looked at the first two (the Four Chapter Gospel and the Cultural Mandate) of five foundational ideas about work taught in the Scripture. Understanding these five ideas will help us build a solid, Biblical view of work, vocation, and calling. Next we will look at what I think is the most misunderstood yet
- [The Bible in One Sentence](https://institutefc.org/bible-in-one-sentence/) - In our last post I asked the question, “If someone asked you what is the Bible about in one short sentence, how would you respond?” My friend Miles Van Pelt, professor at Reformed Theological Seminary, would answer, “Jesus and the Kingdom of Heaven; every story, every page from the beginning of Genesis to the end of Revelation!” You can
- [Two Moments of the Coming Kingdom](https://institutefc.org/two-moments-of-the-coming-kingdom/) - In my last post we saw that the coming of the Kingdom of God is the central event of redemptive history. Kevin DeYoung, in an article entitled "Thinking About the Kingdom" defines it saying, “The kingdom of God is the age to come breaking in to the present age.” The coming of the Kingdom of
- [Working in Christ's Present and Coming Kingdom](https://institutefc.org/onward-christian-soldier/) - In our last post we answered the question "What is the Kingdom?" but this raises another question: "When is the Kingdom?" Many passages in the New Testament lead us to believe that the Kingdom is here already. A large part of Christ's ministry was the announcement of the coming of the Kingdom of God (Matthew
- [Your Role in the Final Battle](https://institutefc.org/your-role-in-the-final-battle/) - Hold your ground, hold your ground! Sons of Gondor, of Rohan, my brothers! I see in your eyes the same fear that would take the heart of me. A day may come when the courage of men fails, when we forsake our friends and break all bonds of fellowship, but it is not this day.
- [Kingdom is our Goal, not Utopia](https://institutefc.org/kingdom-is-our-goal-not-utopia/) - We want our Utopia now. -- Sinclair Lewis, Main Street While the idea of "utopia" dates back to the ancient Greeks, Sir Thomas More actually coined the word in 1516. It is described as a perfect and ideal place or society, where there’s a collective dream of the peaceful and harmonious. Man has been dreaming
- [How the 'Second Adam' Fulfills the Cultural Mandate](https://institutefc.org/how-the-second-adam-fulfills-the-cultural-mandate/) - The Cultural Mandate's relationship to the Kingdom of God is no more apparent than in the second chapter of Hebrews. The author of the letter to the Hebrews quotes Psalm 8, which paints a magnificent picture of what man was created to be. But there is a place where someone has testified: “What is mankind
- [The Big Idea Behind the Kingdom of God](https://institutefc.org/the-big-idea-behind-the-kingdom-of-god/) - The big idea behind this series on the kingdom of God is that God’s mission to redeem the world is the main story-line of the Bible. This message is well put in theologian Chris Wright’s intriguing book, The Mission of God, which calls this idea “a major key that unlocks the whole grand narrative of the
- [Can Believers Work with Unbelievers?](https://institutefc.org/can-believers-work-with-unbelievers/) - The Cultural Mandate dictates that mankind has a responsibility to be stewards of creation, both in the sphere of nature and the sphere of culture. After the Fall and the curse of sin, this endeavor became much more difficult (Genesis 3:17-19). Yet because God restated the Cultural Mandate to Noah after the flood (Genesis 9:1),
- [What Special Grace Means for You](https://institutefc.org/what-special-grace-means-for-you/) - In the New Testament, James wrote, "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows" (James 1:17). Referring to this passage, author and pastor Tim Keller writes in his book The Reason for God: This means that no matter who
- [What We All Gain From Common Grace](https://institutefc.org/what-you-need-to-know-about-common-grace/) - The rain falls upon the just And also on the unjust fellas But mostly it falls upon the just Cause the unjust have the just's umbrellas ― Cormac McCarthy, The Stonemason The apostle Paul described the universal condition of humanity in bleak terms. In the book of Romans he wrote, "There is no one righteous,
- [What Evil Lurks in the Hearts of Men?](https://institutefc.org/what-evil-lurks-in-the-hearts-of-men/) - Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows... ― The opening line of the 1930 radio show "Detective Story" We've discussed that common grace is God’s kindness and mercy toward all members of the human race regardless of their spiritual condition. It is, as theologian John Murray wrote, “every favour
- [God's Eternal Love and Restraint](https://institutefc.org/gods-eternal-love-and-restraint/) - We have asked, "for what purpose would God shower common grace upon humanity?" First, God's common grace prevents fallen human beings from doing all the wrong they could do. The second answer is that through common grace God restrains his wrath against sinful humanity. In his book The Doctrine of God, theologian John Frame notes
- [How Common Grace Sustains Culture](https://institutefc.org/how-common-grace-creates-culture/) - We have been taking about the three reasons God showers common grace upon humanity. The first two that we have discussed are: First, God's common grace prevents fallen human beings from doing all the wrong they could do. Second, through common grace God restrains his wrath against sinful mankind. The third reason why God has
- [Common Grace for the Common Good](https://institutefc.org/common-grace-for-the-common-good/) - The plowing of the wicked is sin, but it is more sinful for the wicked not to plow. - John Murray What gives the non-Christian firefighter the courage to charge up the stairs of the Twin Towers on 9/11 to save a financial worker? What motivates the non-Christian soldier to throw himself on a grenade
- [Lessons for Your Job from the Parable of the Talents](https://institutefc.org/lessons-for-your-job-from-the-parable-of-the-talents/) - Through the Parable of the Talents, Jesus Christ teaches that the Kingdom of Heaven is like a man going on a long journey. Before he leaves, he gives his three servants different amounts of money, denominated by talents. Whatever its exact value, in the New Testament a talent indicates a large sum of money, maybe
- [Finding Joy and Purpose in your Job](https://institutefc.org/finding-joy-and-purpose-in-your-job/) - We have looked at the Parable of the Talents, which teaches us that God gives us everything we need in order to do what He has called us to do. For example, in the Garden of Eden, Adam was given resources to take dominion and produce a return on God's investment. Likewise James Davison Hunter,
- [Biblical Boundaries of Success](https://institutefc.org/biblical-boundaries-of-success/) - As we begin to understand that our work is important to God and He has given us everything we need to be successful in our calling, it is important to maintain the proper perspective. We must understand that our Biblical view of success has boundaries. Yes, through our work God expects us to impact our
- [Two Historic Teachings of Work](https://institutefc.org/two-historic-teachings-of-work/) - This is what the LORD says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls." — Jeremiah 6:16 If we look back over the last 2,000 years of Christian history, we discover that
- [The Early Christian View of Work](https://institutefc.org/the-early-christian-view-of-work/) - In light of the Old Testament background, it is not surprising to see the appreciation of work in the first-century Christian church that is very similar to the Jewish understanding. Though He called his disciples out of their vocations, Jesus gave no general call for all Christians to give up everyday work. Much of his
- [Is 'Full-time' Ministry Holier than My Job?](https://institutefc.org/is-full-time-ministry-more-holy-than-my-job/) - By the beginning of the third century we begin to see a subtle shift in the way Christians understood vocation. Conflicts with Jews and pagans gave rise to persecution, which led Christians to see themselves at war with the surrounding culture. They worshipped a different God, lived by a different law, had a different inward
- [Do I Need to Quit my Job and Attend Seminary?](https://institutefc.org/do-i-need-to-quit-my-job-and-attend-seminary/) - In our last post, we saw how the contribution of the early church fathers created the idea that pursuing the contemplative life or a professional role in the church is the only truly religious vocation. In some ways this mentality still influences our modern Christian lives. The sacred-secular divide produced the mistaken belief within the
- [How the Protestant Work Ethic Has Affected Vocation](https://institutefc.org/how-the-protestant-work-ethic-has-affected-vocation/) - Recently we have looked at how the early church and the church in the Middle Ages drove a wedge between the sacred and secular aspects of the lives of believers. This led to the perception that having a vocation or calling referred exclusively to full-time church work. It was through Martin Luther's efforts that the 16th
- [Three Cultural Movements that Changed the Meaning of Vocation](https://institutefc.org/calling-in-the-age-of-enlightenment-and-industrial-revolution/) - While the Reformers and the Puritans helped to recover the Biblical understanding of "calling" and how it applies to the everyday work of all Christians, their efforts were soon challenged by emerging cultural movements. During the 17th and 18th centuries, a wide-ranging intellectual movement called the Enlightenment emerged. The goal of the Enlightenment was to understand the
- [The Difference Between Calling and Work](https://institutefc.org/the-difference-between-calling-and-work/) - Harvard Business School psychologist Timothy Butler offers the following advice in an article about how vocation differs from career or job: There are three words that tend to be used interchangeably—and shouldn't be. They are “vocation,” “career,” and “job.” Vocation is the most profound of the three, and it has to do with your calling.
- [How to Understand Your Vocational Calling](https://institutefc.org/how-to-understand-your-vocational-calling/) - In order to understand the Biblical doctrine of work, we must clearly understand the differences between vocational calling and career, occupation, or job. Vocational calling is the call to God and to His service in the vocational sphere of life based on giftedness, desires, affirmations, and human need. Vocational calling is usually stable and permanent
- [Establishing the Work of Our Hands](https://institutefc.org/establishing-the-work-of-our-hands/) - May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands. —Psalm 90:17 There is an old story set in the Middle Ages during the construction of one of the great European cathedrals. A nobleman was walking among the workers,
- [You are Called to be a Servant](https://institutefc.org/you-are-called-to-be-a-servant/) - Walk onto almost any Christian college campus and you can hear these two big ideas being taught: Christians should challenge their spheres of influence with Christian truth claims. God wants us to bring all areas of thought and life under the captivity of the Lordship of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). We are then told in
- [What We Can Learn About Sacrifice from John Calvin’s School of Death](https://institutefc.org/what-we-can-learn-from-john-calvins-school-of-death/) - In 1559, John Calvin began a seminary in Geneva to train young church planters. We know that Calvin sent at least 88 church planters to his native country of France, possibly many more. It was dangerous to plant churches in France because of anti-Protestant sentiment. In fact, it was so dangerous that the Academy of Geneva
- [Are You Young, Restless and Reformed?](https://institutefc.org/are-you-young-restless-and-reformed/) - In a 2006 article in Christianity Today titled “Young, Restless and Reformed,” Collin Hansen noted that under the radar there has been a quiet and steady growth of interest in traditional Reformed theology, saying, While the Emergent ‘conversation’ gets a lot of press for its appeal to the young, the new Reformed movement may be
- [Daniel, an Example of Reweaving Shalom](https://institutefc.org/daniel-an-example-of-reweaving-shalom/) - In the tent city in Babylon, a young man in the crowd heard Jeremiah’s letter and believed that it meant a new vocational call on his life. From that moment, he totally committed his life to working for the shalom, the peace and well-being, of the great city of Babylon. The young man’s name was
- [Our Calling to Restore Culture](https://institutefc.org/our-calling-to-restore-culture/) - If a significant part of our calling as God’s people is to reweave shalom, what will that look like in our society today? As we have seen in previous posts, God’s Cultural Mandate demands that Christians embrace their responsibility to influence the greater culture through the most powerful means at their disposal—their vocational calling. Yet
- [Can Christians Today Really Impact Culture?](https://institutefc.org/can-christians-today-really-impact-culture/) - As we discussed in a previous post, the idea of Christ transforming culture takes seriously the biblical narrative of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. It celebrates the goodness of creation and of human culture. It recognizes that creation is fallen, but also recognizes God’s desire to restore creation by the death and resurrection of Christ,
- [Getting Down to Business and Changing the World](https://institutefc.org/getting-down-to-business-and-changing-the-world/) - We have already seen a number of the historical and theological reasons for American Christians’ cultural retreat: the two-chapter gospel the influence of Enlightenment thinking the Industrial Revolution Yet we suggest the most overlooked reason for the failure of the church to influence culture is the loss of the Biblical doctrine of work. This has
- [Cultural Change - Is It Possible Today?](https://institutefc.org/cultural-change-is-it-possible-today/) - We've been talking about shaping culture - but there is one question we haven't explored: is cultural change even possible? It is thought that cultures are profoundly resistant to intentional change. Major shifts in culture take place only over very long periods of time. Yet during the Protestant Reformation a fairly small group of people
- [He Who Dies With The Most Toys Wins...Or Does He?](https://institutefc.org/he-who-dies-with-the-most-toys-wins-or-does-he/) - I undertook great projects: I built houses for myself and planted vineyards...I bought male and female slaves...I also owned more herds and flocks than anyone in Jerusalem before me. I amassed silver and gold for myself, and the treasure of kings and provinces. —Ecclesiastes 2:4-10 The secular, scaled-down version of Solomon’s lifestyle shows up in the
- [Fear of A Meaningless Life](https://institutefc.org/fear-of-a-meaningless-life/) - This week we're concluding our series on "The Work of Our Hands." Yesterday we explored the extremes people take in their view or work: either as an idol or merely a chance for a paycheck. Today we're discussing why it's so important to find purpose for our work. Richard Leider and David Shapiro, in their
- [Kingdom Work](https://institutefc.org/kingdom-work/) - The separation of faith and calling by Christians, along with the loss of the Biblical doctrine of work, had a devastating effect on the landscape of American culture during the 20th century. As Christians today, we are once again called to integrate our faith and our work. We are to use our vocational calling to
- [Putting It All Into Practice](https://institutefc.org/putting-it-all-into-practice/) - How do we integrate our faith and work in a way that is pleasing to God? We must first rediscover that our primary vocation is the call to follow Jesus. From this primary call flows our call to our churches, our families, our communities, and to our economic work. All of life is to be
- [Why Should Christians Care to Vote?](https://institutefc.org/why-should-christians-care-to-vote/) - Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God….For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason.
- [A Biblical View of Dominion: Stewardship](https://institutefc.org/a-biblical-view-of-dominion-stewardship/) - …our churches are teaching a low view of stewardship. We’re missing the essential goodness of work in particular, even “non-spiritual” work. “Non-spiritual” work, in case you’re wondering, is any work in which God is not interested, which is just to say there is no such thing. -Tom Gilson, Thinking Christian Christians today need a much
- [Peace On Earth, Goodwill to Men: The Prophecy and Promise of Christ's Birth](https://institutefc.org/peace-on-earth/) - Ed. note: IFWE and Creativity.Purpose.Freedom will not be publishing tomorrow due to the holiday. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a blessed holiday season with friends and family. And in despair I bowed my head/"There is no peace on earth," I said/"For hate is strong, and mocks the song/of 'peace on earth, goodwill
- [General & Special Revelation: the Knowledge of God](https://institutefc.org/general-special-revelation-knowledge-of-god/) - The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise. -Psalm 111:10 We’re in the middle of discovering five tools that will help us think biblically about faith, work, and economics. This week we continue our look at knowledge, understanding, and wisdom. How do
- [The Measure of A Man](https://institutefc.org/the-measure-of-a-man/) - Jesus replied, "No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." - Luke 9:62 On September 9th, 2013 my father had a massive stroke. Seven days later, he went to be with the Lord. My father's passing has given me reason to spend
- [Echoes of Eden: Reflections On Art, Faith, & Vocation](https://institutefc.org/echoes-of-eden-art-faith-vocation/) - How is it that we can read a story, comprised only of words of ink printed on pages of paper, and be so deeply moved? This question recently crossed my mind last week as I was wrapping up speaking at a weekend conference for several churches in Missoula, Montana. I was prompted to mull over
- [What Is Stewardship - Really?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-stewardship-really/) - God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning - the sixth day. - Genesis 1:31 Many Christians in the church today view stewardship only as giving money to the church. Even those who understand stewardship as the godly management of their time, talent,
- [What Perfect Shalom Looks Like](https://institutefc.org/what-perfect-shalom-looks-like/) - You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for you have created all things, and for your pleasure they are and were created." - Revelation 4:11, KJV Do you want to lead a personally fulfilling and spiritually significant life? To be able to do so, we need to know why we
- [Christ Has Risen - And That Makes All the Difference!](https://institutefc.org/christ-has-risen-and-that-makes-all-the-difference/) - As we enter into Holy Week we should ask ourselves the question, “What does the Resurrection have to do with our work?” Or, more appropriately, "What doesn't the Resurrection have to do with our work?" In anticipation of Easter, this week I have been reading 1 Corinthians 15. Apparently in the city of Corinth there
- [What's the Point of Common Grace?](https://institutefc.org/common-grace/) - Can believers work with non-believers? For most of us, our jobs and everyday activities bring us in contact with non-believers. We work alongside them day after day. How do we think biblically about this situation? The answer is found in the biblical doctrine of common grace. I've defined common grace more in-depth in other posts, so
- [Four Defining Characteristics of Biblical Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/four-defining-characteristics-biblical-flourishing/) - How do you live the good life? How do you really, truly flourish? What's more, how do we as Christians navigate the clash of cultural visions concerning "the good life" and what it means to flourish? For Christians, the notion of "flourishing" goes much deeper than the standard cultural definitions. It's not just "the good
- [Can Christians Flourish While They Suffer?](https://institutefc.org/can-christians-flourish-while-they-suffer/) - Are the notions of suffering and Christian flourishing incompatible? Can a Christian flourish while they suffer? These are difficult questions needing to be answered if we are to have a truly robust understanding of biblical flourishing. Christian flourishing stands apart from all other versions in that it provides not only a vision, but also the
- [Selfies, Stewardship, and the Real Meaning of Christmas](https://institutefc.org/selfies-stewardship-the-real-meaning-of-christmas/) - A recent ad by the Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn shows a young woman taking a selfie. She's not alone in the picture, though: an image of Jesus is just behind her. A caption at the top of the ad reads, "It's never just a selfie," and at the bottom, the diocese bids viewers, "Join us
- [What Christ's Resurrection Means for How We Live and Work](https://institutefc.org/christs-resurrection-what-it-means/) - Does our earthly work matter to God? Yes it does, replies Darrell Cosden in his book The Heavenly Good of Earthly Work. Central to his argument is the bodily resurrection of Jesus, which the church celebrates this Easter. Cosden correctly asserts that Christ's resurrection means three things for how we live and work in the world.
- [A Jesus That Would Make Thomas Jefferson Proud](https://institutefc.org/a-jesus-that-would-make-thomas-jefferson-proud/) - On Good Friday I watched Killing Jesus, a television movie based on Bill O’Reilly’s book by the same name. It was worse than I anticipated. The historical representation of Jesus’s life, minus the supernatural elements, was an attempt to appeal to both religious and non-religious audiences. Jesus was presented as a controversial rabbi/preacher who upset the
- [Our Mission Is More than Sin Management: The Four-Chapter Gospel and God's Grand Story of Redemption](https://institutefc.org/our-mission-is-more-than-sin-management/) - This first chapter of Genesis is more than the opening to the first book of the Bible. It is the opening chapter in the grand story of God’s redemptive plan for his creation. This comprehensive story has four parts: Creation: The way things were. Fall: The way things are. Redemption: The way things could be.
- [The Mission of God's People Is Found in the Cultural Mandate, the Very First Calling Given in the Bible](https://institutefc.org/the-mission-of-gods-people-is-found-in-the-cultural-mandate/) - These past few weeks we've been asking, "What is the mission of God's people?" The answer to this question is found in the very first calling God gives in the Bible. “God has created us in his image, so that we may carry out a task, fulfill a mission, pursue a calling," writes Anthony A.
- [Carrying out the Cultural Mandate Is Essential for Biblical Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/carrying-out-the-cultural-mandate-is-essential-for-biblical-flourishing/) - On the sixth day of creation God comes to Adam and Eve and gives them their job description. Genesis 1:28 says, God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Writing about this passage in her book Total Truth, Nancy Pearcey explains: The first phrase
- [Why Does It Matter That God Called Creation "Very Good"?](https://institutefc.org/why-does-it-matter-that-god-called-creation-very-good/) - As we look at the first five days of creation in Genesis, the phrase “And God saw that it was good” pops up four times (Genesis 1:10, 12, 18, 25). Yet, at the end of the sixth day we read, God saw all that he had made, and it was very good (Genesis 1:31). Why
- [How the Sabbath Keeps Work from Being the Meaning of Our Lives](https://institutefc.org/how-the-sabbath-keeps-work-from-being-the-meaning-of-our-lives/) - Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. - Exodus 20:8-10 Man was created by God for work (Genesis 2:15). For the Christian, life without work is meaningless; but work must never become the
- [There are Still Weeds in the Garden: Thoughts on Redemption and Resurrection](https://institutefc.org/there-are-still-weeds-in-the-garden-thoughts-on-redemption-and-resurrection/) - The rifle shots rang out across Arlington National Cemetery, but is wasn’t until the bugle sounded the twenty-four notes of taps that I felt a strange combination of joy and sadness flood over me. Joy came in the knowledge that my father, who we were honoring, was now one of the great cloud of witnesses
- [The Beauty of Creation and the Longing We Feel for Restoration](https://institutefc.org/the-beauty-of-creation-and-the-longing-we-feel-for-restoration/) - All of us have been mesmerized by the glory of a sunset or the beauty of the freshly fallen snow across a barren landscape. Yet, as beautiful as nature can be, we are still unsatisfied. There should be something more. C.S. Lewis speaks to this troubling disparity in Weight of Glory: We do not want
- [What Is the Path to Your Greatest Fulfillment?](https://institutefc.org/your-greatest-fulfillment/) - Human beings were made to seek meaning. This isn't the standard narrative in our culture, of course. The widely-held narrative is something else entirely, one of maximum choice and minimum meaning. Maximum Choice, Minimum Meaning In a Wall Street Journal article on religious wars, writer Jonathan Sacks explains the culture's dominant ethos. He writes that
- [Six Reasons Why Heaven Is Not Our (Long-Term) Home](https://institutefc.org/heaven-is-not-our-long-term-home/) - “Why should I worry about work and impacting the culture around me when it's all going to burn up anyway?” asked a young Christian I spoke to recently. “I am just waiting to go to heaven,” he added. Unfortunately this “Theology of Evacuation” is what far too many American evangelicals believe. But is it what
- [Debunking the Myth of Independence](https://institutefc.org/the-myth-of-independence/) - What does it mean that we are made in the image and likeness of God? It means we were made to be relational beings. A majority of scholars and theologians agree on this. The orthodox doctrine of the Trinity recognizes God is one God, co-existing in three distinct persons of the Father, Son, and Holy
- [Christ Took the First Steps to Restore Shalom to Creation. Will You Follow in His Footsteps?](https://institutefc.org/easter-and-shalom/) - I've always been intrigued by Luke's account of Jesus's triumphant entry into Jerusalem. It's the beginning of Holy Week, what we usually call Palm Sunday. Luke records that as Jesus approaches Jerusalem, he sees the city and weeps. Jesus then says, If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you
- [Seven Solid Quotes Concerning Common Grace and Co-Belligerence](https://institutefc.org/seven-solid-quotes-concerning-common-grace-and-co-belligerence/) - A lot has been written on our blog about common grace, so today I thought I'd let others do the talking. Here are seven solid quotes concerning common grace and co-belligerence. Common Grace [Common grace is] every favour of whatever kind or degree, falling short of salvation, which this undeserving and sin-cursed world enjoys at
- [The Biblical Definition of True Happiness](https://institutefc.org/biblical-definition-of-happiness/) - The Bible talks about happiness, but defines it differently than our culture. When the Bible mentions happiness, it is speaking of something that is self-contained. The happiness the Bible advocates isn’t dependent on circumstances. The words for “bless” and “blessed” in both the Old and New Testaments illustrate why this is true. Happiness and Blessing in
- [Gaining Wisdom to Discern God's Will](https://institutefc.org/wisdom/) - "How do I know what God wants me to do in this situation?" This is a question I often hear. It’s a question I had myself as a college graduate from University of Florida. I thought I might be called to be a pastor, but I wasn’t sure. I attended Union Seminary for one year.
- [We Weren't Created to Be Castaways](https://institutefc.org/created-to-be-castaways/) - We live in a strange paradox. Our cultural narratives are comprised of concepts like "rugged individualism," "pull yourself up by your bootstraps," and "every man for himself." Independence is seen as the ultimate virtue. Despite these narratives, the truth is our very existence is dependent on our interdependence. Created to Be Castaways? How long would you
- [Explaining the Difficult Question of Why True Flourishing Requires Suffering](https://institutefc.org/true-flourishing-requires-suffering/) - Are the notions of suffering and Christian flourishing incompatible? Can Christians flourish while they suffer? These are difficult questions needing to be answered if we are to have a truly robust understanding of biblical flourishing. Christian flourishing provides not only a vision, but also the means by which a person can achieve flourishing. That means
- [What Is the Precise Definition of a "Talent"?](https://institutefc.org/the-precise-definition-of-talent/) - The parable of the talents describes what our work should look like while we wait for the return of Christ and the final consummation of his kingdom. But, what is the precise definition of a talent, and how might knowing this definition broaden our understanding of the parable of the talents? According to the Complete
- [The Gospel Provides the Missing Link to Well-Being](https://institutefc.org/the-missing-link-to-well-being/) - The search for meaning and purpose is not new. It has dogged mankind from the beginning of time. There is a natural, inescapable desire to live in peace and security, love and happiness. These are not merely random values or desires of a certain people or time period, but something that transcends cultures because it is
- [Three Key Passages Concerning Stewardship in the Bible](https://institutefc.org/stewardship-in-the-bible/) - We were created to be stewards of God's creation through our work. There are many passages concerning stewardship in the Bible that tell us this, but the following three are important because they give us a biblical framework for stewardship in our lives. The first key passage provides the foundation for biblical stewardship. The second
- [Servant Leadership Is Essential for Your Christian Worldview. It Can Even Help You Find Your Calling.](https://institutefc.org/servant-leadership-christian-worldview-and-calling/) - A Barna survey examining changes in worldview among Christians once found that only 19 percent of professing born-again Christians acknowledged even a limited Christian worldview (based on Barna’s definition). That figure has remained unchanged for over a decade. These findings present two problems. First, only a minority of evangelical Christians hold to a truly biblical
- [Should Christians Even Try to Influence Culture?](https://institutefc.org/should-christians-try-to-influence-culture/) - A significant part of the calling of God's people is to reweave shalom. What does that look like in the world today? The cultural mandate calls Christians to embrace their responsibility to create and influence culture through their vocational calling. Christians should, as Henry Blackaby says, "watch to see where God is at work and
- [Why Would God Bless Humanity with Common Grace?](https://institutefc.org/why-would-god-bless-humanity-with-common-grace/) - Common grace is God’s kindness and mercy toward all members of the human race regardless of their spiritual condition. It is, as theologian John Murray wrote, "every favour of whatever kind or degree, falling short of salvation, which this undeserving and sin-cursed world enjoys at the hand of God." This begs the question: why does
- [After the Fall, We Need Each Other More Than Ever to Flourish](https://institutefc.org/we-need-each-other-for-flourishing/) - Sin has consequences. It seems obvious, but sin has had a detrimental impact on our ability to flourish. This is because sin has damaged the relationships that are so central to flourishing – with God, with ourselves, and with others. Sin Alters Our Relationships with Others The effects of Adam and Eve’s sin were not
- [Wondering What Flourishing Looks Like? This Blessing from the Bible Has Some Clues](https://institutefc.org/blessing-from-the-bible-flourishing/) - I'm often asked for concrete illustrations of biblical flourishing. One of my favorites is found in Numbers 6:24-26: The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace. This "priestly blessing" has often been
- [The Bible Tells Us Creation Is Good, but It Also Calls for Self-Denial. Isn't This Contradictory?](https://institutefc.org/the-bible-and-self-denial/) - We read in Genesis that God created the heavens and the earth out of nothing and that all he had made was good (Gen. 1:4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25). It is clear from the creation story that the Lord delights in the work of his hands. Humans, being created in God's image, are called
- [Wealth, Greed, and a Biblical View of Self-Interest](https://institutefc.org/wealth-greed-and-a-biblical-view-of-self-interest/) - Are wealthy people greedier than others? According to a report in the Los Angeles Times, wealth breeds greed and other vices: The rich really are different from the rest of us, scientists have found—they are more apt to commit unethical acts because they are more motivated by greed. Is this reality or a stereotype? Has
- [Six Ways Biblical Flourishing is Unique](https://institutefc.org/six-reasons-biblical-flourishing-is-unique/) - How do you live the good life? How do you really, truly flourish? What's more, how do we as Christians navigate the clash of cultural visions concerning "the good life" and what it means to flourish? For Christians, the notion of "flourishing" goes much deeper than the standard cultural definitions. It's not just "the good
- [Big Decision to Make? Asking "Why" Makes All the Difference](https://institutefc.org/big-decision-to-make-why-asking-why-makes-all-the-difference/) - If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. —James 1:5 “How do I know _______________ (fill in the blank),” is a question I often get when I speak around the country. How do I know what God wants me to
- [The Church’s Secret: Biblical Illiteracy in the 21st Century](https://institutefc.org/the-churchs-secret-biblical-illiteracy-in-the-21st-century/) - Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. --Psalm 119:105 (KJV) Motivational speaker Charles “Tremendous” Jones once quipped, You will be the same person in five years as you are today except for the people you meet and the books you read. If this is true, then for
- [The “Gospel of Sin Management” Distorts the Good News](https://institutefc.org/the-gospel-of-sin-management-distorts-the-good-news/) - "You have your heads in your Bibles constantly because you think you’ll find eternal life there. But you miss the forest for the trees. These Scriptures are all about me! And here I am, standing right before you, and you aren’t willing to receive from me the life you say you want" John 5:39–40 (The Message).
- [Looking for Life's Answers? Go Back to the Book of Genesis](https://institutefc.org/looking-for-lifes-answers-go-back-to-the-book-of-genesis/) - Far too often Christians think, as Dr. Richard Pratt writes in Designed for Dignity, Jesus came to forgive our sin, make our souls sparkle, to sprinkle us with peace and joy so we can sprout wings when we die, grab a harp and join the eternal choir. Nothing could be further from the truth. God has called each
- [We're Not Designed To Be Independent](https://institutefc.org/were-not-designed-to-be-independent/) - Near the end of the sixth day of the creation story we read, “Then God said, Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness” (Gen. 1:26). The phrase, “Let us make man in our image” reveals a lot about our own nature and about the nature of God. Designed in God's Image for
- [Better than New: God’s Grand Restoration Plan](https://institutefc.org/better-than-new-gods-grand-restoration-plan/) - He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." -- Revelation 21:5 “How can it be better than new?” This was the question of a young man at a recent IFWE presentation on the “Four-Chapter Gospel.” The question came
- [Common Grace: How Believers and Non-Believers Can Advance God's Purposes Together](https://institutefc.org/common-grace-how-believers-and-non-believers-can-advance-gods-purposes-together/) - Can believers work with non-believers? For most of us, our jobs and everyday activities bring us in contact with non-believers. We work alongside them day after day. How do we think biblically about this situation? There is biblical precedent for believers cooperating with non-believers to achieve what God commanded in the cultural mandate: Daniel served faithfully
- [God’s Message through the Sermon on the Mount: Here’s How to Flourish](https://institutefc.org/gods-message-through-the-sermon-on-the-mount-heres-how-to-flourish/) - In a New York Times article, University of Notre Dame philosophy professor Gary Gutting reflects on the provocative Newsweek cover article: Forget the church; follow Jesus. Gutting suggests that the Newsweek piece is saying the moral standard Jesus expresses in the Sermon on the Mount is the important takeaway from Christianity; no church is required.
- [Evangelism, Work, and Your Calling to "Fill and Subdue" the Earth](https://institutefc.org/evangelism-work-and-your-calling-to-fill-and-subdue-the-earth/) - For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God (Acts 20:27). If you search “verses on evangelism” on the web, you will get about 573,000 results. While I have not checked every one, I suspect that the first verse on evangelism in the Bible is not on anyone's top ten
- [Your Calling is Clear: Look to Genesis 1 for Direction](https://institutefc.org/your-calling-is-clear-look-to-genesis-1-for-direction/) - God has created us in his image so that we may carry out a task, fulfill a mission, pursue a calling,” — Anthony A. Hoekema, Created in God’s Image When most people think about the book of Genesis, certain questions usually come to mind: Did God create the world in six ordinary days? Were these "days" great
- [Is Pursuing Wealth or Poverty More Virtuous?](https://institutefc.org/is-pursuing-wealth-or-poverty-more-virtuous/) - Is God more pleased with wealth or poverty? Plenty of people attempt to answer that question by using scripture, often out of context, to support two extreme views: Some embrace the “prosperity gospel” which says the reason you don’t have riches and wealth is simply because you haven’t asked God for them (James 4:2). Others
- [Where Does Spiritual Doubt Come From?](https://institutefc.org/where-does-spiritual-doubt-come-from/) - Have you ever questioned your faith in God? According to a recent study from Barna, episodes of doubt about what we believe are not unusual. The study reports that two-thirds of American adults who self-identify as Christian have experienced “spiritual doubt,” and 26 percent say they still experience spiritual doubt. Even 19 percent of devout
- [You're a Key Character in the Greatest Story Ever Told](https://institutefc.org/youre-a-key-character-in-the-greatest-story-ever-told/) - There's a powerful scene at the end of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings that was not in the movie. After the ring is destroyed at Mount Doom and eagles rescue Sam and Frodo, Sam wakes up from his sleep surprised he is alive and surprised to see Gandalf standing at the foot of his
- [Heavenly Displays and Earthly Work: Getting a Glimpse of God's Glory](https://institutefc.org/heavenly-displays-and-earthly-work-getting-a-glimpse-of-gods-glory/) - You are clothed with splendor and majesty, covering yourself with light as with a garment, stretching out the heavens like a tent (Psalm 104:1-2) Cheers and applause burst forth as millions of people in the U.S. experienced a beautiful sight yesterday watching a total or partial eclipse of the sun by the moon. Some reported feeling goose
- [How to Fulfill Your Restless Search for Happiness](https://institutefc.org/how-to-fulfill-your-restless-search-for-happiness/) - "If only I had...." How would you finish that sentence—honestly? Your answer may reveal how much you may have embraced the current culture’s definition of happiness. Happiness has come to be understood by Christians and non-Christians alike as the individual’s experiential satisfaction. Happiness is measured by experiences that are emotionally satisfying. Many of us look
- [Top Reasons Why a Long Commute May Be Worth It](https://institutefc.org/top-reasons-why-a-long-commute-may-be-worth-it/) - After enduring a typical hour-long commute to get to my office on the outskirts of Washington, D.C., I had to laugh out loud reading James Bruce’s Wall Street Journal article, “Those Who Commute Deserve a Salute”: Cramped almost to the point of suffocation, surrounded by hard plastic and metal, you glide through the darkness, wondering
- [Call to Ministry, Call to Business: It’s All Godly Work](https://institutefc.org/call-to-ministry-call-to-business-its-all-godly-work/) - Growing up in rural Florida in the early 60s, our television had only three channels and two of them didn’t come in very well. But every Sunday night we watched the Ed Sullivan show. Today, when I hear someone mention multitasking, I always think of the guy on Ed Sullivan who spun the plates. So
- [Your Purpose Is Revealed in God's Design and Desire for Creation](https://institutefc.org/gods-design-and-desire-for-creation/) - Deep within each one of us is a hunger to live a life of significance and purpose. The key to satisfying our hunger for meaning is understanding one basic principle: we are stewards of everything we have. Many Christians would agree with this concept of stewardship, but few are able to articulate how they are to steward.
- [The Star of Bethlehem Points (Also) to the Eternal Impact of Our Work](https://institutefc.org/the-star-of-bethlehem-work/) - “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant” —Robert Louis Stevenson A wave of relief washed over me as I pushed the “Send” button. One more blog finished, sent on to my staff to be edited and posted. An odd thought occurred to me: I’ve been writing
- [What Do D-Day and Christmas Have in Common?](https://institutefc.org/d-day-christmas-in-common/) - Chuck Colson, in his 2012 book The Faith: What Christians Believe, Why They Believe It, and Why It Matters, included a chapter entitled, “The Invasion.” There he describes the most important event of the Second World War, the D-Day Invasion. Most of us have watched in horror the scenes in movies like Saving Private Ryan that
- [Why Is Rachel Weeping in the Christmas Story?](https://institutefc.org/rachel-weeping-christmas-story/) - When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was
- [Is Your Gospel More Than a Bus Ticket to Heaven?](https://institutefc.org/gospel-bus-ticket-heaven/) - Most Christians recognize these foundational truths in their faith. I am sinful and broken. I cannot fix my sin on my own, so I need a savior, Jesus Christ. This is the most common message of Christianity. The reality of our sin is impossible to ignore. We face the effects daily. It is readily clear
- [What Does Old Testament Law Have to Do With Flourishing Today?](https://institutefc.org/old-testament-law-flourishing/) - If your New Year’s resolution was to read the Bible in a year, by now you have reached what many have found to be an insurmountable barrier—the book of Leviticus. Written by Moses, Leviticus contains all the laws and instructions given by God to the people of Israel in the wilderness at Mount Sinai. Those
- [Why Flourishing Requires You To Be "All In"](https://institutefc.org/flourishing-requires-all-in/) - “Are you all in?” roared the high school football coach to his team in the locker room. “Yes, SIR,” they shouted back. “Then let’s go get it done,” said the coach, and the team rushed out onto the field to play their homecoming rivals who had beaten them 61-0 the year before. Turns out their
- [Are Biblical Principles Shaping Your Values?](https://institutefc.org/biblical-principles-values-actions/) - “Sow a thought, reap an action; sow an action, reap a habit; sow a habit, reap a character; sow a character, reap a destiny.” This often-quoted maxim speaks to a great biblical truth at the core of who we are called to be in Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul writes “…take captive every thought to
- [What Does “Christian Hedonism” Mean for Our Work?](https://institutefc.org/christian-hedonism-for-our-work/) - "It would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant
- [How Easter Brings Peace, Purpose, and Urgency to Our Work](https://institutefc.org/easter-peace-purpose-urgency-work/) - Palm Sunday begins what is traditionally known as the most holy week of the Christian calendar leading up to Easter. In this last week of Jesus’ earthly ministry, he delivers a sermon to his disciples that should have a tremendous impact on how we practically live out our lives, but most of us won’t hear
- [Three Ways the Resurrection Makes Everyday Work Meaningful](https://institutefc.org/resurrection-makes-work-meaningful/) - Does our earthly work matter to God? Yes it does, replies Darrell Cosden in his book The Heavenly Good of Earthly Work. Central to his argument is the bodily resurrection of Jesus, which the church celebrates this Easter. Cosden correctly asserts that Christ's resurrection means three things for how we live and work in the world.
- [Is God’s Wisdom Revealed Only on Sundays?](https://institutefc.org/is-gods-wisdom-revealed-only-on-sundays/) - To get more knowledge about your field of work, you may be able to take an online course, go to a conference, earn a degree, or just do a Google search to find what you need. To gain understanding about workplace dynamics, you may be able to find a good mentor. But how do you
- [The Power of Pentecost to Transform the World through Work](https://institutefc.org/the-power-of-pentecost-to-transform-the-world-through-work/) - Today is “Whit Monday,” traditionally the day after the Christian holy day of Pentecost, which was yesterday. Interestingly, “Whit Monday” is still an official government holiday in many Western European countries, whereas evangelical Christians in the U.S. don’t have a holiday to help remind them of the important events this day represents. Unfortunately, many have
- [Applying Godly Wisdom Requires Humility and the Holy Spirit](https://institutefc.org/applying-godly-wisdom-requires-humility-and-the-holy-spirit/) - In the sixteenth century, Nicolaus Copernicus theorized that the earth was not the center of the universe. He was quickly condemned as a heretic by both the Catholic and Protestant churches and ridiculed by scientists of the day. It was not until many years later, after the discoveries of men like Galileo Galilei and Johannes
- [Six Reasons Why Stewardship Goes Beyond Tithing](https://institutefc.org/six-reasons-why-stewardship-goes-beyond-tithing/) - Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms (1 Pet. 4:10). Living a life of purpose and significance begins with understanding the foundational principles of biblical stewardship. Unfortunately, many Christians have been taught a narrow definition of stewardship that only involves tithing and
- [Are You Asking the Right Questions About Life’s Purpose?](https://institutefc.org/are-you-asking-the-right-questions-about-lifes-purpose/) - You know the big questions of life: Who am I? Why am I here? How then shall I live? No matter how far we have come technologically, scientifically, socio-economically, and politically, we can’t get away from these questions. In a recent Wall Street Journal article, Jonathan Sacks works from this premise. Although historians dared to
- [God, Why Did You Give Me This (One, Lousy) Talent?](https://institutefc.org/god-why-did-you-give-me-this-one-lousy-talent/) - God gave humans not only the physical world, but our own talents—gifts and abilities that we can use to serve him. Prior to the Reformation, the medieval church interpreted the talents in Jesus’ parable as spiritual gifts God bestowed on Christians. But the Reformers upset the status quo of the church by teaching people that
- [Be a Gospel Signpost Through the Work of Your Hands](https://institutefc.org/be-a-gospel-signpost-through-the-work-of-your-hands/) - There is a website called Despair, Inc. which makes fun of the signs and motivational posters that adorn the walls of so many offices. My favorite is one that shows a picture of a sinking ship. Under the picture the caption reads, "It could be that the purpose of your life is only to serve
- [Easter Is Only One Chapter of God’s Story](https://institutefc.org/easter-is-only-one-chapter-of-gods-story/) - Those who come to church only at Christmas and Easter are not only missing out on fellowship and regular teaching within the body of Christ, they are also missing out on learning more about the whole story—what God planned from beginning to end. It’s like walking into the middle of a movie without understanding the
- ['I Can't Wait for the New Heavens and the New Earth'](https://institutefc.org/i-cant-wait-for-the-new-heavens-and-the-new-earth/) - “Why should I worry about work and impacting the culture around me when it’s all going to burn up anyway?” asked a young Christian I spoke to recently. “I am just waiting to go to heaven,” he added. Unfortunately, this theological view is what far too many Christians believe. But is it what the Bible
- [Advancing God's Kingdom Through Your Work: One Young Man's Story](https://institutefc.org/advancing-gods-kingdom-through-your-work-one-young-mans-story/) - This month, I had the privilege of studying in Oxford, Cambridge, and London while working on my Doctorate of Ministry in Workplace Theology and Ethical Leadership with a cohort of students from the US, Canada, and Australia. As part of our studies, we went on an extended tour of Westminster Abbey. In one little nook
- [You Are Called to a Life of Fruitfulness](https://institutefc.org/you-are-called-to-a-life-of-fruitfulness/) - But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. God has always been with us at work. And he wants us to be fruitful there as well as all the other areas of our lives. Yet, we often find it
- [What David Teaches Us About Whole-Life Stewardship](https://institutefc.org/what-david-teaches-us-about-whole-life-stewardship/) - Living a life of purpose and significance begins with understanding the foundational principles of biblical stewardship. Unfortunately, many Christians have been taught a narrow definition of stewardship that only involves tithing and managing personal finances. This limited view of stewardship has led many to believe that everything outside of those arenas belongs to them and
- [How to Think Biblically About Obedience at Work](https://institutefc.org/how-to-think-biblically-about-obedience-at-work/) - The word obedience does not carry a very positive connotation for me. In my youth I was told to brush my teeth, finish my vegetables, and do my homework. As I have gotten older the list has changed: get your yearly physical, get your income taxes in on time, and do your expense report at
- [The Forgotten Message of Advent: Your Work Matters](https://institutefc.org/the-forgotten-message-of-advent-work/) - Many Christians this last week attended an Advent service. What does the Advent season have to do with our work? Everything. This connection is part of the forgotten message of Advent. The Forgotten Message of Advent May Be the Most Important The Advent season reminds us of two things: To celebrate the Incarnation, that the
- [If You Won the Lottery, Would You Be at Work Tomorrow?](https://institutefc.org/if-you-won-the-lottery-would-you-be-at-work-tomorrow/) - It was a pivotal moment for me. The arena in Orlando, Florida was packed with over 5,000 businesspeople attending a one-day motivational conference. I was there with a number of my salespeople from work to listen to some of the greatest inspirational speakers of the day, including General Colin Powell, Dick Vitale, and Tony Robbins.
- [Why Did God Call Creation "Very Good"?](https://institutefc.org/why-did-god-call-creation-very-good/) - As we look at the first five days of creation in Genesis, the phrase “And God saw that it was good” pops up four times (Genesis 1:10, 12, 18, 25). Yet, at the end of the sixth day we read, God saw all that he had made, and it was very good (Genesis 1:31). Why
- [Are We Attempting to Earn Our Own Salvation with the Faith and Work Message?](https://institutefc.org/are-we-attempting-to-earn-our-own-salvation-with-the-faith-and-work-message/) - While I was speaking on faith and work at a conference, someone asked, “Aren’t you just talking about works righteousness?” I assured them I wasn’t, but I can see how it could’ve sounded that way. I’m not the only one running into this problem. Several years ago Mark Roberts at The High Calling interviewed N. T. Wright,
- [Following in the Footsteps of Christ to Restore Shalom](https://institutefc.org/following-in-the-footsteps-of-christ-to-restore-shalom/) - I have always been intrigued by Luke’s account of Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem. It’s the beginning of Holy Week, what we usually call Palm Sunday. Luke records that as Jesus approaches Jerusalem, he sees the city and weeps. Jesus then says, If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring
- [This is Not How Things are Supposed to Be](https://institutefc.org/this-is-not-how-things-are-supposed-to-be/) - When we look at the world today, we all feel a deep conviction that this is not the way things are supposed to be. Global pandemic, our friends and neighbors sheltering in place, the economy doing somersaults. I’m reminded of Dante’s poem Inferno, in which a sign was posted on the gates of Hell that
- [Why Easter Matters to Me More Than Ever Before](https://institutefc.org/why-easter-matters-to-me-more-than-ever-before/) - I began a Sunday school class I taught several weeks ago on “God’s Sovereignty and Our Responsibility” with the following statement: You will never be able to walk through the valley of the shadow of death and fear no evil unless you believe in God’s sovereignty. I believe that God is working out his master
- [Faith in a Time of High Anxiety](https://institutefc.org/faith-in-a-time-of-high-anxiety/) - In 1977 Mel Brooks released a comedy entitled High Anxiety. Even though Brooks played the leading role, the film did not do as well as expected. Why? In 1977 people did not find anxiety funny… they still don't. In fact, “High Anxiety” is probably a good name for what we are going through today. It
- [Three Ways to Live as We Wait For Jesus’ Return](https://institutefc.org/three-ways-to-live-as-we-wait-for-jesus-return/) - In this season of Advent, our thoughts are rightly on Christmas and the first coming of our Savior—but Advent is about Easter too. We’re all familiar with the events of Easter: Jesus’ life, crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. In addition to the miracle of his conquering death, Jesus taught his disciples–and us–about his second coming and
- [When Words are Worth More than a Picture](https://institutefc.org/when-words-are-worth-more-than-a-picture/) - I read an article a while ago that has stuck with me. The author described how, during a conversation with several people, he was asked, "What do you believe?" By his own admission, he struggled to come up with just the right words to describe his faith, and by the time he had something, the
- [Five Foundational Ideas About Work Taught in the Bible](https://institutefc.org/five-foundational-ideas-about-work-taught-in-the-bible/) - Work in different forms is mentioned over 800 times in the Bible, more than all the terms used for worship, music, praise, and singing combined. I often wonder how I could have ever thought that my work was not important to God! Here is just one example: But everyone who hears these words of mine
- [Why Thanksgiving is a Cultural “Ebenezer” To Be Grateful For](https://institutefc.org/why-thanksgiving-is-a-cultural-ebenezer-to-be-grateful-for/) - As we give thanks for the bounty of the harvest and God’s blessings in our lives, what might we learn from a wayward youth-turned-pastor about our “modern” holiday of Thanksgiving? This pastor learned from personal experience of the need for visible reminders of or memorials to God’s work in our lives. A Story of Transformation
- [Why Did Rachel Weep in the Christmas Story?](https://institutefc.org/why-did-rachel-weep-in-the-christmas-story/) - When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was
- [A Christmas Eve Message from the Moon](https://institutefc.org/a-christmas-eve-message-from-the-moon/) - On December 21, 1968, I stood in the front yard of my childhood home, only about fifty miles from Cape Canaveral in Florida, and watched a Saturn V rocket take mankind to the Moon for the first time. This was the Apollo 8 mission, which successfully circled the Moon ten times before returning its crew
- [Three Key Bible Passages About Stewardship](https://institutefc.org/three-key-bible-passages-about-stewardship/) - We were created to be stewards of God’s creation through our work. There are many passages concerning stewardship in the Bible that tell us this, but the following three are important because they give us a biblical framework for stewardship in our lives. The first key passage provides the foundation for biblical stewardship. The second
- [Things Were Going Well—Until I Died](https://institutefc.org/things-were-going-well-until-i-died/) - Editor’s Note: Hugh Whelchel, executive director and founder of IFWE, was recently a guest on the Creator Entrepreneur Podcast with Stan Hustad. Below is a partial transcript of that conversation, which you can listen to in its entirety here. We encourage you to subscribe to the show on whichever platform you get your podcasts. STAN
- [Will We Work in the New Earth?](https://institutefc.org/will-we-work-in-the-new-earth/) - One of our readers recently asked several questions I hear often: “In the life after death, what will we do? Will we work? Will any of the things we have today, like cars, be there?” In order to answer the question, we need to clear up a few things. Where Do Christians Go When We
- [How We Can Hope in the Resurrection Even While Facing Death](https://institutefc.org/how-we-can-hope-in-the-resurrection-even-while-facing-death/) - Last month, The Atlantic published an article titled, “Growing My Faith in the Face of Death,” by pastor and author Tim Keller. Last year, Keller was unexpectedly diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. In this excellent article, Keller questions how we as Christians face the possibility of our own death. The short answer is: not very well.
- [Bringing the Great Commission Into All Aspects of Our Lives](https://institutefc.org/bringing-the-great-commission-into-all-aspects-of-our-lives/) - How many times have you heard a sermon that called you to “preach the gospel” and fulfill the Great Commission (Matt. 28:16-20)? These kinds of sermons are necessary reminders of an important command given to us by Jesus, but often we are left with the idea that this is only able to be done in
- [How God Sees the Measure of a Man](https://institutefc.org/how-god-sees-the-measure-of-a-man/) - "Jesus replied, 'No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.'" (Luke 9:62) On September 9th, 2013, my father had a massive stroke. Seven days later, he went to be with the Lord. My father’s passing has given me reason to spend time
- [How the Sabbath Prevents Work from Being the Meaning of Our Lives](https://institutefc.org/how-the-sabbath-prevents-work-from-being-the-meaning-of-our-lives/) - "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God." (Ex 20:8-10) Man was created by God for work (Gen 2:15). For the Christian, life without work is meaningless; but work must never become the meaning of
- [Do Your Passions Enslave You?](https://institutefc.org/do-your-passions-enslave-you/) - "For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery." (Gal 5:1) We are passionate people. God created us that way. God has created each of us for a unique purpose. He has equipped us with distinctive passions, temperaments, abilities, experiences, spiritual gifts, education, and spheres of
- [Olympians & the Book of Hebrews: Running with Perseverance](https://institutefc.org/olympians-the-book-of-hebrews-running-with-perseverance/) - The 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which officially ended Sunday, has received much press for athletes protesting social injustice. From the United States’ women's soccer team kneeling before the first match to an American shot-putter placing her arms in an “X” over her head on the podium after her silver medal presentation, there has been much in
- [Understanding Shalom & the Grand Metanarrative of Scripture](https://institutefc.org/understanding-shalom-the-grand-metanarrative-of-scripture/) - "The question is not whether the whole of our lives will be shaped by some grand story. The only question is which grand story will shape our lives." This critical question is asked at the conclusion of a 2006 public lecture given by Michael W. Goheen. He also argued that the church must recover “the
- [What is “Shalom” According to the Bible?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-shalom-according-to-the-bible/) - Deep in the heart of every person there is a sense of the way things are supposed to be. Biblical scholar Jonathan Pennington says the desire to “live in peace, security, love, health, and happiness,” has driven our actions and goals throughout human history, transcending both culture and era. We might define “the way things
- [Are Shalom and “Eirene” the Same?](https://institutefc.org/are-shalom-and-eirene-the-same/) - In my previous article, I elaborated on the Old Testament usage of "shalom" as a greeting, to denote a relationship, or to signify complete maturity. Today, we're going to turn to "shalom" in the New Testament. Shalom in the New Testament The Jewish word shalom does not occur at all, of course, in the Greek
- [‘And It Was Very Good’: God’s Original Vision of Shalom](https://institutefc.org/and-it-was-very-good-gods-original-vision-of-shalom/) - As we have previously discussed, shalom was God’s original intent for his creation. God is most glorified when his creation works as he intended. This is the very essence of shalom. This was the way it was supposed to be, everything working as God originally intended. As we look around today, the absence of shalom
- [The Fall’s Unraveling of Shalom](https://institutefc.org/the-falls-unraveling-of-shalom/) - We have been discussing how to better understand God’s vision for shalom using the four-chapter gospel model that sees the historical redemptive narrative told by the Bible in four parts: creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. Creation shows the way things were, the fall explains the way things are, redemption shows the way things are going
- [Redemption Gives Us a Glimpse of True Shalom](https://institutefc.org/redemption-gives-us-a-glimpse-of-true-shalom/) - Previously, we have discussed God’s original creative vision for shalom in community and how the fall distorted that vision. Today, we’ll examine how redemption, the third chapter of the four-chapter gospel, gives us a glimpse of the way things could or should be. Redemption—Grace and a Taste of Shalom After the fall, God did not
- [Reweave Shalom by Following Daniel’s Example](https://institutefc.org/reweave-shalom-by-following-daniels-example/) - The Bible gives us many rich resources to help us understand how to reweave shalom. One is found in the book of Daniel as four young Hebrew exiles, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah follow Jeremiah’s call to “work for the peace and prosperity (shalom) of the city” (Jer. 29:7, NLT) Daniel 1 introduces us to
- [Shalom & the Restoration of All Things](https://institutefc.org/shalom-the-restoration-of-all-things/) - We have been examining God’s vision of shalom through the lens of the four-chapter gospel. Previous posts have discussed God’s original creative vision for shalom in community, how the fall distorted that vision, and how redemption gives us a glimpse of what shalom could or should be. Today, we’ll take a look at shalom in
- [We Already Know the Rest of the Story](https://institutefc.org/we-already-know-the-rest-of-the-story/) - “How, then, will the story of human history end?” asks Tim Keller in his classic, The Reason for God. He then answers the question by describing what takes place in the fourth chapter of restoration: We do not see the illusion of the world melt away nor do we see spiritual souls escaping the physical
- [The Gospel & Our Various Christian Callings](https://institutefc.org/the-gospel-our-various-christian-callings/) - Editor’s note: Hugh Whelchel was recently featured in an interview with Praxis Circle. Below are a few highlights of that conversation, which you can watch in full here. I typically talk about the gospel in four chapters: creation, fall, redemption, restoration. Creation is just the way things were. The fall shows the way things are.
- [Rocks in a Tumbler: How God Uses the Church to Help Us Shine](https://institutefc.org/rocks-in-a-tumbler-how-god-uses-the-church-to-help-us-shine/) - I grew up in southern Florida in the era BAC (before air conditioning). So, almost every summer we spent several weeks in the western North Carolina mountains. One of my favorite places that we frequently visited was called “The Old Rock Shop,” which was located along the highway west of Franklin, North Carolina, on the
- [What is the Christian Worldview & Can It Change?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-the-christian-worldview-can-it-change/) - Editor’s note: Hugh Whelchel was recently featured in an interview with Praxis Circle. Below are a few highlights adapted from that conversation, which you can watch in full here. Do you use the term "worldview?" I use it all the time; everyone has a worldview. It’s funny, particularly that people are so quick to call
- [Understanding Common vs. Special Grace](https://institutefc.org/understanding-common-vs-special-grace/) - The Prophet Jeremiah wrote to the Jewish exiles in Babylon to “seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper” (Jeremiah 29:7). Paul told the Galatians, “…as we have opportunity, let us do good
- [Our Hope & Anticipation of the Next Resurrection](https://institutefc.org/our-hope-anticipation-of-the-next-resurrection/) - It is hard for me to believe that this will be the third Easter blog I have written since being diagnosed with ALS. The doctors gave me one year to live, but God had other plans. To say the last couple of years have been a spiritual and emotional roller-coaster would be an understatement. Through
- [The Kingdom of God is Not Just the Church](https://institutefc.org/the-kingdom-of-god-is-not-just-the-church/) - Jesus came to earth to be the perfect sacrifice for our sins, but few Christians recognize that he also came to establish the Kingdom of God. Understanding our place in God's kingdom is critical to understanding our vocational calling. In his book Doing God's Business, Paul Stevens comments, “The New Testament treats work in the
- [Working Between the First & Second Comings of Christ](https://institutefc.org/working-between-the-first-second-comings-of-christ/) - Jesus came to earth to be the perfect sacrifice for our sins and to establish the Kingdom of God. In my last article, we discussed God's Kingdom in the Bible, seven differences between the Kingdom of God and the church, and how the kingdom is coming. Today, let's take a look at how this understanding
- [What Is the Connection Between Genesis & the Gospels?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-the-connection-between-genesis-the-gospels/) - Editor’s note: Hugh Whelchel was recently featured in an interview with Praxis Circle. Below are a few highlights of that conversation, which you can watch in full here. What is the connection between Genesis & the Gospels? I would argue that the Gospel is a call to a lost and forfeit calling, to fill the
- [Great Christian Reformers & Theologians](https://institutefc.org/great-christian-reformers-theologians/) - Editor’s note: Hugh Whelchel was featured in an interview with Praxis Circle. Below are a few highlights of that conversation, which you can watch in full here. Who are some of the great authors of the Christian worldview? Obviously Luther’s work, Calvin’s work, and many of the early reformers. Read more IFWE blogs about Luther’s
- [My ALS Diagnosis & the 23rd Psalm](https://institutefc.org/my-als-diagnosis-the-23rd-psalm/) - As many of you know, I was diagnosed with ALS in March of 2020 and given one year to live. Over the next six months, while my wife and I were trying to educate ourselves about this disease, we truly saw God do amazing things. As I look back on it, things weren’t really that
- [We Are Still In Exile & Need A Deliverer](https://institutefc.org/we-are-still-in-exile-need-a-deliverer/) - An unknown Latin composer in the twelfth century penned the famous words, “O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel.” We will hear and sing these words this Christmas season, but many believers will completely miss the important message the songwriter was trying to convey. God’s people are still in exile and need a
- [What is a Revival Movement?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-a-revival-movement/) - The worship was so powerful you could cut it with a knife. About one hundred students were packed into the small chapel. There was no worship band on stage; it was empty. There were no big screens showing the words to the songs. Several guys were sitting in the audience with guitars but were not
- [The Morning Star: Our Hope in the Darkness](https://institutefc.org/the-morning-star-our-hope-in-the-darkness/) - One time on a family vacation, we stopped and visited a large underground cavern. Even though I was only eight or nine, l can clearly remember the guide leading us into a vast vault room. He said it was so large you could put an entire football field into it. Then he turned off all
- [Be a Gospel Signpost with the Work of Your Hands](https://institutefc.org/be-a-gospel-signpost-with-the-work-of-your-hands/) - There is a website called Despair, Inc. which makes fun of the signs and motivational posters that adorn the walls of so many offices. My favorite is one that shows a picture of a sinking ship. Under the picture the caption reads, “It could be that the purpose of your life is only to serve
- [Four Things I Wish Someone Had Told Me at Graduation](https://institutefc.org/four-things-i-wish-someone-had-told-me-at-graduation/) - While I graduated in the last century, the things that are important don’t really change because they are based on eternal truths. Since I wrote on this topic two years ago, l have had time to reflect on my answers. And after a lifetime of work, here are four biblical truths that I wish someone
- [5 Lessons For Graduates from The Parable of the Talents](https://institutefc.org/5-lessons-for-graduates-from-the-parable-of-the-talents/) - In my recent article, I shared four pieces of theological advice that I wish I would have received when I graduated. Here is an additional fifth piece of advice that warrants special consideration for graduates. Work with Excellence Within the Abilities God has Given You The Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14-30 provides a
- [Tim Keller’s Faithfulness: His Ministry Impact in NYC & Beyond](https://institutefc.org/tim-kellers-faithfulness-his-ministry-impact-in-nyc-beyond/) - Trying to follow God's call on our lives, my wife and I moved from Central Florida to Northern Virginia in 2000. I came to work for a start-up IT training company. Things went well until the IT bubble burst in 2001 and I found myself unemployed. As you can imagine, there was a lot of
- [Worldview: Put Your Heart Into It](https://institutefc.org/worldview-put-your-heart-into-it/) - A powerful scene at the end of J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings book was not in the movie. After the ring is destroyed at Mount Doom and the eagles rescue Sam and Frodo, Sam wakes up from his sleep in Rivendell, surprised he is alive and surprised to see Gandalf standing
- [Do Our Churches Understand Faith & Work?](https://institutefc.org/do-our-churches-understand-faith-work/) - Have you ever heard someone say, “Did you hear about Jim Smith? He quit his job at the bank to go into full-time Christian service.” I would guess many of us have actually said something very similar. In the church today, we still believe some jobs are more spiritual than others. And when it comes to
- [Are You Asking the Right Questions About Your Life’s Purpose?](https://institutefc.org/are-you-asking-the-right-questions-about-your-lifes-purpose/) - You know the big questions of life: Who am I? Why am I here? How then shall I live? No matter how far we have come technologically, scientifically, socio-economically, and politically, we can’t get away from these questions. In a Wall Street Journal article, Jonathan Sacks works from this premise. Although historians dared to declare the
- [Why Our ‘Loneliness Epidemic’ Threatens Human Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/why-our-loneliness-epidemic-threatens-human-flourishing/) - According to news headlines, there’s a growing “loneliness epidemic” in the West. Jeremy Linneman writes that as a society we’ve turned inwards in our search for meaning and wrongly assumed that connecting on Facebook can fill our need for community: As disenchanted individuals searching for our true selves in all the wrong places, we must remember we aren’t
- [Kingdom Reflection: Living in the Already, Not Yet](https://institutefc.org/kingdom-reflection-living-in-the-already-not-yet/) - "The future has invaded the present. The Kingdom of God which is yet to come in power and glory had already come in a secret and hidden form to work among men and within them.” -George Eldon Ladd Isn’t this kingdom quote from George Ladd similar to the story we read on the opening pages
- [Celebrating Advent: The Hope We Have in Christ](https://institutefc.org/celebrating-advent-the-hope-we-have-in-christ/) - And in despair I bowed my head/"There is no peace on earth," I said/"For hate is strong, and mocks the song/of peace on earth, goodwill to men!" - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Christmas Bells, 1863 Setting the Stage for Christ's Birth As we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ, there is little
- [How the Mystery of the Magi Impacts Our Faith & Work](https://institutefc.org/how-the-mystery-of-the-magi-impacts-our-faith-and-work/) - There is no brighter symbol of the Christmas story than that of the star of Bethlehem. Every year, we hear how the Magi traveled from the East, following a star in order to pay homage to Jesus Christ, the newborn king. Have you ever wondered what led the wise men to undertake this long, dangerous
- [Understanding the Big Picture: Grace & the Authority of Scripture](https://institutefc.org/understanding-the-big-picture-grace-the-authority-of-scripture/) - Editor’s note: Hugh Whelchel was previously featured in an interview with Praxis Circle. Below are a few highlights of that conversation, which you can watch in full here. How Much of Our Lives Does God Want from Us? My answer to that question is easy. 110%. Everything. And I can show you that over and
- [Words That are Worth More than a Picture](https://institutefc.org/words-that-are-worth-more-than-a-picture/) - I read an article a while ago that has stuck with me. The author described how, during a conversation with several people, he was asked, "What do you believe?" By his own admission, he struggled to come up with just the right words to describe his faith, and by the time he had something, the
- [A Biblical Perspective About Obedience at Work](https://institutefc.org/a-biblical-perspective-about-obedience-at-work/) - The word obedience does not carry a very positive connotation for me. In my youth, I was told to brush my teeth, finish my vegetables, and do my homework. As I have gotten older, the list has changed: get your yearly physical, get your income taxes in on time, and do your expense report at
- [A Historic Christmas Message from the Moon](https://institutefc.org/a-historic-christmas-message-from-the-moon/) - Editor’s note: On “Flashback Friday,” we take a look at some of IFWE’s former posts that are worth revisiting. This post was previously published on Dec. 23, 2020. On December 21, 1968, I stood in the front yard of my childhood home, only about fifty miles from Cape Canaveral in Florida, and watched a Saturn
- [Using Our Talents for the Glory of God](https://institutefc.org/using-our-talents-for-the-glory-of-god/) - God gave humans not only the physical world, but our own talents—gifts and abilities that we can use to serve him. Prior to the Reformation, the medieval church interpreted the talents in Jesus’ parable as spiritual gifts God bestowed on Christians. But the Reformers upset the status quo of the church by teaching people that
- [The Inspiring Story Behind St. Patrick’s Day](https://institutefc.org/the-inspiring-story-behind-saint-patricks-day/) - On March 17, Irish culture enthusiasts around the world will dress in Kelly green and drink over seventeen million pints of Guinness. The parties and parades commemorate the Feast of Saint Patrick, Ireland's most famous patron saint. This cultural and religious celebration is held on the traditional date of Saint Patrick's death in 461. Yet,
- [There's Hope in the Resurrection Even When We Face Death](https://institutefc.org/theres-hope-in-the-resurrection-even-when-we-face-death/) - Editor’s note: On March 29, 2024—Good Friday—Hugh Calvin Whelchel III passed away and entered glory after a four-year battle with ALS. Read more about his life and legacy here. In 2021, The Atlantic published an article titled, “Growing My Faith in the Face of Death,” by pastor and author Tim Keller. The year prior, Keller
- [Will Believers Work in the New Earth?](https://institutefc.org/will-believers-work-in-the-new-earth/) - One of our readers asked several questions that I hear often: “In the life after death, what will we do? Will we work? Will any of the things we have today, like cars, be there?” In order to answer these questions, we need to clear up a few things. Where Do Christians Go When We
- [Understanding Shalom & the Grand Metanarrative of the Bible](https://institutefc.org/understanding-shalom-the-grand-metanarrative-of-the-bible/) - "The question is not whether the whole of our lives will be shaped by some grand story. The only question is which grand story will shape our lives." This critical question is asked at the conclusion of a 2006 public lecture given by Michael W. Goheen. He also argued that the church must recover “the
- [What is “Shalom” According to Scripture?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-shalom-according-to-scripture/) - Deep in the heart of every person, there is a sense of the way things are supposed to be. Biblical scholar Jonathan Pennington says the desire to “live in peace, security, love, health, and happiness” has driven our actions and goals throughout human history, transcending both culture and era. We might define “the way things
- [Do Shalom & 'Eirene' Have the Same Meaning?](https://institutefc.org/do-shalom-eirene-have-the-same-meaning/) - In my previous article, I elaborated on the Old Testament usage of shalom as a greeting, to denote a relationship, or to signify complete maturity. Today, we're going to turn to shalom in the New Testament. Shalom in the New Testament The Jewish word shalom does not occur at all, of course, in the Greek
- [God’s Original Vision of Shalom](https://institutefc.org/gods-original-vision-of-shalom/) - As we have previously discussed, shalom was God’s original intent for his creation. God is most glorified when his creation works as he intended. This is the very essence of shalom. This was the way it was supposed to be, everything working as God originally intended. As we look around today, the absence of shalom
- [The Unraveling of Shalom](https://institutefc.org/the-unraveling-of-shalom/) - We have been discussing how to better understand God’s vision for shalom using the four-chapter gospel model that sees the historical redemptive narrative told by the Bible in four parts: Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Restoration. Creation shows the way things were, the Fall explains the way things are, Redemption shows the way things are going
- [Redemption Gives Us a View of True Shalom](https://institutefc.org/redemption-gives-us-a-view-of-true-shalom/) - Previously, we have discussed God’s original creative vision for shalom in community and how the fall distorted that vision. Today, we’ll examine how Redemption, the third chapter of the four-chapter gospel, gives us a view of the way things could or should be. Redemption—Grace & a Taste of Shalom After the fall, God did not
- [What Is Biblical Self-Interest?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-biblical-self-interest/) - I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God. - Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 A recent Los Angeles Times article began with this statement: The rich
- [What Is Christian Hedonism?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-christian-hedonism/) - It would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant
- [Markets & Morality from a Biblical Perspective, Part Two](https://institutefc.org/markets-morality-from-a-biblical-perspective-part-two/) - Before we can even ask how things might go wrong, we must first explain how they could ever go right. - Friedrich Hayek As we explore the relationship between markets and morality, one big question on people's minds is, "are markets and morality at odds?" Before we start, it is important to note that the Bible
- [What are the Economic Implications of Creation?](https://institutefc.org/economic-implications-of-creation/) - Our confidence in Christ does not make us lazy, negligent, or careless, but on the contrary, it awakens us, urges us on, and makes us active in living righteous lives and doing good. There is no self-confidence with this. - Reformer Ulrich Zwingli (1484-1531) We're in the midst of a series exploring the ties between markets
- [The New Testament's View of Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/the-new-testaments-view-of-flourishing/) - Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God. - Matthew 5:9 What does the New Testament have to say about flourishing, or shalom, and how does that impact how we live our lives and go about our work? New Testament writers translated shalom as the Greek word eirene. “Peace” in the
- [Five Tools for Applying Faith, Work, & Economics to Your Life](https://institutefc.org/five-tools-for-applying-faith-work-economics-to-your-life/) - Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test what God's will is - his good, pleasing, and perfect will. - Romans 12:2 Thinking Biblically In a world of differing voices competing for our allegiance, God tells us that
- [Discovering Your Personal Vision](https://institutefc.org/discovering-your-personal-vision/) - Everyone will be forgotten, nothing we do will make any difference, and all good endeavors, even the best, will come to naught…Unless there is God. If the God of the Bible exists, and there is a True Reality beneath and behind this one, and this life is not the only life, then every good endeavor,
- [Markets & Morality from a Biblical Perspective, Part Three](https://institutefc.org/markets-morality-from-a-biblical-perspective-part-three/) - Yesterday we looked at biblical principles found in the Four-Chapter Gospel -- principles that impact how we approach economics. A failure to understand this connection is one reason Christians do not see any relationship between biblical and economic principles. As I suggested yesterday, there is another reason Christians do not make the connection between markets
- [Do Free Markets Inherently Lead to Exploitation?](https://institutefc.org/free-markets-and-exploitation/) - No one ever likes being misunderstood. The Institute for Faith, Work & Economics (IFWE) believes that’s happened to us in the latest issue of Christianity Today. In a September 2014 article, author Kevin Brown, an assistant professor at the Howard Dayton School of Business at Asbury University, writes about what he sees as the negative
- [Why Faith, Work, and Economics?](https://institutefc.org/why-faith-work-and-economics/) - IF WE believe we’re made in God’s image to be creative and are called to use our talents, how then should we work? IF WE believe we are called to practice justice and mercy, then how do we apply these virtues in the world of work and economics? IF WE believe that through our work
- [Thanksgiving: A Cultural “Ebenezer” We Can Be Thankful For](https://institutefc.org/thanksgiving-a-cultural-ebenezer/) - As we give thanks for the bounty of the harvest and God’s blessings in our lives, what might we learn from a wayward youth-turned-pastor about our “modern” holiday of Thanksgiving? This pastor learned from personal experience of the need for visible reminders of or memorials to God’s work in our lives. A Story of Transformation
- [Art, Vocation, and Why We Hunger for Redemption Stories](https://institutefc.org/art-vocation-and-why-we-hunger-for-redemption-stories/) - How is it that we can read a story, comprised only of words of ink printed on pages of paper, and be so deeply moved? This question crossed my mind as I was wrapping up speaking at a weekend conference for several churches in Missoula, Montana. I was prompted to mull over the answer in
- [Os Guinness: In a Changing World, Christian 'Renaissance' Brings Hope](https://institutefc.org/os-guinness-renaissance-brings-hope/) - In a world where it feels like change is coming at warp speed, many of the Christians I talk to are discouraged. More and more they feel estranged from mainstream culture as the Judeo-Christian influences that have been the supporting structure of Western civilization quickly collapse. As David Brooks laments in a recent article, American
- [Review: <em>Reading the Bible with the Founding Fathers</em>](https://institutefc.org/review-reading-the-bible-with-the-founding-fathers/) - For the last twenty years, one of the most hotly contested fronts in American culture wars has been the faith of the founding fathers. At one extreme, some scholars argue that all the founding fathers, even Jefferson and Franklin, were born-again, evangelical Christians. At the other extreme, some noted historians take the position that the
- [The Benedict Option: Valid Call to Spiritual Renewal; Dangerous Rx for the Church to Retreat](https://institutefc.org/the-benedict-option-valid-call-to-spiritual-renewal-dangerous-rx-for-the-church-to-retreat/) - "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Jeremiah 6:16) In his new book, The Benedict Option: A Strategy for Christians in a Post-Christian Nation, Rod Dreher suggests that American Christians should look back to the
- [What’s in the Jordan Peterson Message for the Church?](https://institutefc.org/jordan-peterson-message-for-church/) - I don’t know if you’ve heard the rumblings, but something interesting is happening outside the church around the topic of masculinity and it is starting to gain traction inside the church. The apparent pied piper of this discussion is a Canadian psychology professor at the University of Toronto named Jordan Peterson. Once unknown, Peterson, according
- [Are Franklin’s List of Virtues Needed Today?](https://institutefc.org/franklins-list-of-virtues/) - The framers of our constitution…said that certain virtues are necessary for self-government when it comes to compromise, or moderation, or civility…where do we get those virtues now? – Michael Gerson, columnist On March 13, PBS launched a new conservative talk show called “In Principle,” featuring syndicated Washington Post columnist Mike Gerson and commentator Amy Holmes.
- [Apples, Bananas, and the Truth about the Origins of Religious Liberty](https://institutefc.org/apples-bananas-and-the-truth-about-the-origins-of-religious-liberty/) - A recent cable TV ad shows a series of scenes with bananas where apples normally should be—children bobbing for bananas, a textbook with Isaac Newton getting hit on the head with a banana, a New York City T-shirt called “The Big Banana,” and even a Renaissance painting depicting Eve offering Adam a banana. The scene
- [Bridge the Faith and Work Divide - Get Economics](https://institutefc.org/bridge-the-faith-and-work-divide-get-economics/) - When it comes to making sense of our faith and our work, many of us feel there is a great divide. At IFWE, we’re passionate about helping Christians bridge that separation by rediscovering a rich biblical doctrine of work. But what seems even more pressing to most Americans today is to find answers to our
- [If You Inherited Ten Million Dollars, Would You Be at Work Tomorrow?](https://institutefc.org/if-you-inherited-ten-million-dollars-would-you-be-at-work-tomorrow/) - The arena in Orlando, Florida was packed with over 5,000 business people attending a one-day motivational conference. I was there with a number of my salespeople from work to listen to some of today’s greatest inspirational speakers, including General Colin Powell, Dick Vitale and Tony Robbins. One of the speakers asked, "If you went home
- [What is My Calling as a Christian at Work?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-my-calling-as-a-christian/) - The doctrine of vocational calling has fallen on hard times in today’s contemporary postmodern world. I recently heard a young man talk about how he was leaving his secular job and following his "call" into full-time ministry. What’s wrong with this picture? All of life is to be lived under the comprehensive Lordship of Christ
- [Your Work: A Sign of the Times](https://institutefc.org/your-work-a-sign-of-the-times/) - There is a website called Despair, Inc. which makes fun of the signs and motivational posters that adorn the walls of so many offices. My favorite is one that shows a picture of a sinking ship. Under the pictures the caption reads, "It could be that the purpose of your life is only to serve
- [Top Ten Books on Faith & Work](https://institutefc.org/top-ten-books-on-faith-work/) - In a previous post, we recommended ten books for people beginning to explore economics. Economics needs context, however. Today I'd like to recommend ten books on integrating faith, work, and culture. They are all rooted in solid theology. Many of the concepts we've discussed on this blog, like the Cultural Mandate or the Four Chapter-Gospel,
- [Religious Liberty vs. Religious Tolerance](https://institutefc.org/religious-liberty-vs-religious-tolerance/) - Cultural upheavals often occur in the most surprising contexts. Who expected that a clash between sexuality and religious liberty would be focused on a restaurant company mainly known for its chicken sandwiches? - Al Mohler in an article for the CNN Belief blog Just when I thought the religious freedom argument could not get more
- [The Protestant Work Ethic: Alive & Well...In China](https://institutefc.org/the-protestant-work-ethic-alive-well-in-china/) - Through a mixture of hard work and thrift the Protestant societies of the North and West Atlantic achieved the most rapid economic growth in history. - Niall Ferguson Harvard historian Niall Ferguson suggests in his recent book, Civilization: The West and the Rest, that the rise of Western dominance over the past five centuries is
- [Work That Transforms: What Is It?](https://institutefc.org/work-that-transforms-what-is-it/) - God intends our work to be transformative. This week I was reminded of a great quote from Nancy Pearcey’s book, Total Truth, describing the Cultural Mandate given to Adam by God in the Garden of Eden: The first phrase, “be fruitful and multiply,” means to develop the social world: build families, churches, schools, cities, governments, laws.
- [Presidential Debate: How Both Candidates Missed the Meaning of Work](https://institutefc.org/presidential-debate-how-both-candidates-missed-the-meaning-of-work/) - Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 In the presidential debate last Tuesday night, both President Obama and
- [David's Mighty Men: Stewardship In Action](https://institutefc.org/davids-mighty-men-stewardship-in-action/) - Then the three mighty men broke through the camp of the Philistines and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem that was by the gate and carried it to David. But he would not drink of it. He poured it out to the LORD. - 2 Samuel 23:16 The Old Testament contains some of
- [Asceticism Vs. Self-Denial](https://institutefc.org/aceticism-vs-self-denial/) - We read in Genesis that God created the heavens and the earth ex nihilo, out of nothing, and that all he had made was good (Genesis 1:4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25). It is clear from this creation story that the Lord delights in the work of his hands. Genesis 1:31 tells us, And God
- [Dealing with Moral Relativism and Absolute Truth In the Workplace](https://institutefc.org/dealing-with-moral-relativism-and-absolute-truth-in-the-workplace/) - In his farewell address to the nation, delivered September 19th, 1796, George Washington stated: Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of patriotism, who should labor to subvert these great pillars. Washington knew that religion was the
- [Four Ways Christians Live and Work In the Marketplace](https://institutefc.org/four-ways-christians-live-and-work-in-the-marketplace/) - Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody. - I Thessalonians 4:11-12 Last week we suggested
- [The Mystery of the Magi](https://institutefc.org/the-mystery-of-the-magi/) - Editor's Note: Creativity.Purpose.Freedom. will not publish tomorrow due to the holiday. We at IFWE wish you a Merry Christmas, and a wonderful holiday with your friends and family. Enjoy today's look into the mystery of the Magi! There is no brighter symbol of the Christmas story than that of the star of Bethlehem. Every year
- [Six Ways to Change Everything about Your Work](https://institutefc.org/change-everything-about-your-work/) - How does being a Christian give you freedom in your work that radically differs from those around you? This question and many others are well-answered in my friend Sebastian Traeger's new book The Gospel at Work: How Working for King Jesus Gives Meaning and Purpose to Our Jobs, coauthored with Greg Gilbert. In the third
- [Five Things I Learned about Work from Building a House](https://institutefc.org/five-things-i-learned-about-work-from-building-a-house/) - Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. - Psalm 127:1 While many people were shopping for last minute gifts on Christmas Eve, my wife and I were moving into our new house. It is a house that we have been building for over a year. While we designed and acted
- [What's the Best Way to Set Goals That Glorify God?](https://institutefc.org/goals-that-glorify-god/) - Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit”— yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.
- [What Is the Most Meaningful Job in America?](https://institutefc.org/the-most-meaningful-job-in-america/) - "It's been said that money can't buy you happiness. It turns out it has similarly little effect on whether an employee feels their work is making a positive difference in the world," writes Katherine Dill in a Forbes article listing the most - and least - meaningful jobs. Guess which one of the following jobs
- [Evangelism Is Not Enough to Change the World](https://institutefc.org/evangelism-is-not-enough-to-change-the-world/) - Although it has been written out of most secular accounts, historical evidence demonstrates that Christians have had a culture-shaping influence on Western Civilization. Sociologist Rodney Stark writes, The success of the West, including the rise of science, rested entirely on religious foundations, and the people who brought it about were devout Christians. Despite this historical
- [Yes, Even a Small Number of Christians Can Have a Positive Influence](https://institutefc.org/can-christians-have-influence/) - I've heard from a lot of our readers since writing about how Jesus shows us true power comes from being salt and light. After reading that post, a friend of mine lamented, “If we could just convert 20 percent of the population in the United States to Christianity, we could have a positive influence on things
- [Things Are Not The Way They're Supposed to Be. But There's Hope.](https://institutefc.org/hope/) - When we look at the world today, we all feel a deep conviction that this is not the way things are supposed to be. In his book Lost in the Middle, Paul Trip writes, "Like a knife rammed into the heart of creation, sin brought death into the world and all the aging, sickness, and
- [Three Reasons Evangelism Isn't the Sole Reason for Your Work (but It's Still Important)](https://institutefc.org/three-reasons-evangelism-work/) - Over at his blog, The Exchange, Ed Stetzer recently wrote this concerning workplace evangelism: If the average person spends at least eight hours on work five days of the week, then in the span of a year, this adds up to 2,080 hours a year in the workplace setting and community. Even if this number
- [Seven Reasons to Celebrate Work](https://institutefc.org/seven-reasons-to-celebrate-work/) - I took advantage of yesterday's Sabbath rest to reflect on work in an effort to see my own work and calling in a different light. As I reflected on all I have to be thankful for, I was reminded of these seven reasons to celebrate work. Work Is Ordained by God The Bible begins with
- [How to See Productivity from a Biblical Perspective](https://institutefc.org/productivity-from-a-biblical-perspective/) - Productivity sometimes seems like a bad thing, or at least a purposeless one. We work and produce more, more more, but to what end? Is there a purpose to all our productivity? From a biblical perspective, there is. So how can Christians see productivity from a biblical perspective? First, by recognizing that productivity isn't morally
- [Does the Faith and Work Message Contradict the Gospel?](https://institutefc.org/faith-work-gospel-of-grace/) - I was asked again at church a question I often receive, usually at faith and work conferences. "Aren't you just talking about works righteousness?" I'm getting this question more and more recently, so I thought it would be helpful to revisit some points I've already written on this topic that can help clarify things. Several
- [Is Competition Out of Bounds for Christians?](https://institutefc.org/christians-and-competition/) - Watching the Olympics and viewing all the athletes and their amazing feats spurred on by top-notch competition reminds me of 1 Corinthians 9:24, one of my favorite verses in Scripture: Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to
- [It Matters How You Set Your Goals](https://institutefc.org/the-way-you-set-your-goals/) - Have you achieved all you wanted to this summer? Yeah, I haven't, either, though I've done a lot. I always make a lot of plans (sometimes too many). But as I reflected on what I've done this summer and all that's still left to do, I had a few thoughts about how Christians set goals
- [What the Parable of the Talents Teaches Us about How We Should Live Until Jesus Returns](https://institutefc.org/how-to-live-until-jesus-returns/) - We may not know the day or the hour, but it would still be helpful to know how we as Christians should live until Jesus returns, wouldn't it? Obviously all of Scripture is our guide here, but the parable of the talents is especially insightful in terms of illustrating how Christians should live and work
- [At What Point Does Passion Become Too Much of a Good Thing?](https://institutefc.org/too-much-passion/) - IFWE's new booklet, Free Indeed: Living Life in Light of the Biblical View of Freedom, talks a great deal about how true inner freedom comes when Christ sets us free from the power of sin and death. Even as Christians, it's hard to live into this inner freedom. Christ has set us free, but we
- [How to Make Your Job a Good One without Ever Having to Leave It](https://institutefc.org/a-good-job/) - "Why do you want to leave your current position?" This is a question almost every candidate has to answer when interviewing for a new job. Experts tell you not to say "My boss is a jerk" or "The work environment is toxic" because it will probably be the last question you receive. Instead they suggest
- [Connecting to a Higher Purpose - Especially at Work](https://institutefc.org/connecting-to-a-higher-purpose-2/) - Human beings are complex. We are physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual beings. Connecting on all these levels helps us figure out what we're living for. We are especially satisfied when we feel connected to a higher purpose, and this includes our work. God has given Christians some tools to help address these four core areas
- [What Makes a Company "Christian"?](https://institutefc.org/what-makes-a-company-christian/) - Some of the largest companies in the United States have been identified as “Christian,” and this occasionally makes news headlines. Chick-fil-A, Hobby Lobby, Forever 21 and other companies have sustained scrutiny for being businesses with beliefs. Some companies have been identified as “Christian” by outside sources because of the convictions of their management. Others have openly branded themselves
- [This Second-Century Snapshot of the Early Church Shows How Christians Can Be Salt and Light Today](https://institutefc.org/second-century-snapshot-of-the-early-church/) - These are troubling times for Christians throughout the world. Whenever I get discouraged about the state of the culture around us, I find great encouragement in the lessons to be learned from the early church. The early Christian view of work is particularly inspiring to any Christian desiring to truly be an ambassador of Christ
- [Discovering the Reformation View of Work](https://institutefc.org/the-reformation-view-of-work/) - The Reformation impacted Christians' views of work in ways that still influence our contemporary view of vocation. As you might expect, Martin Luther and John Calvin played significant roles in shaping the Reformation view of work. Before diving into the Reformation view of work, though, it would be helpful to contrast it with the medieval
- [The Historical Influences of the Sacred-Secular Divide](https://institutefc.org/historical-influences-of-the-sacred-secular-divide/) - The sacred-secular divide has deep historical roots. The early church held a sound biblical view of work, but lost it during the Middle Ages. The Reformation helped rectify this, but historical, intellectual movements of the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries paved the way for the sacred-secular divide to rear its head again. These movements have
- [Three Implications of the Biblical View of Work for Christians Today](https://institutefc.org/three-implications-of-the-biblical-view-of-work/) - There is an old story set in the Middle Ages during the construction of one of the great European cathedrals. A nobleman was walking among the workers, asking about their labors. The stonemason explained the care involved in raising a plumb wall. The glass worker pointed out the details of a leaded glass window. The
- [How Vocation Inspired Martin Luther to Launch the Reformation](https://institutefc.org/how-vocation-inspired-martin-luther-to-launch-the-reformation/) - Did you know Martin Luther was a media pioneer? In her New York Times article, "Long Before Twitter, Martin Luther Was a Media Pioneer," Tanya Mohn writes, Americans may know the basics of how Martin Luther was said to have nailed his 95 theses to a church door in Wittenberg, Germany, in 1517, condemning the
- [Five Concepts for Taking a Long-Term View of Calling](https://institutefc.org/five-concepts-for-a-long-term-view-of-calling/) - Chariots of Fire is one of my favorite movies. One great scene features the main character, Eric Liddell, preaching a sermon on a Sunday when he could be running an Olympic race instead. The content of his sermon is Isaiah 40, including verses 28-31: Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the
- [Everybody Knows about the First Thanksgiving. What Can We Learn from the Second?](https://institutefc.org/the-second-thanksgiving/) - We will not be publishing tomorrow in honor of the holiday. From everyone at IFWE, Happy Thanksgiving! Thank you for your faithful readership. Almost everyone knows the story of the first Thanksgiving. They know of the terrible winter of 1621, in which almost half of the Plymouth Bay Colony died. They've heard about how, with
- [Work Is Central to the Forgotten Message of Advent](https://institutefc.org/work-and-the-forgotten-message-of-advent/) - Many Christians this last week attended an Advent service. What does the Advent Season have to do with our work? Everything. This connection is part of the forgotten message of Advent. The Forgotten Message of Advent May Be the Most Important The Advent season reminds us of two things: To celebrate the Incarnation, that the
- [When Will the Church Overcome the Sacred-Secular Divide?](https://institutefc.org/overcoming-the-sacred-secular-divide/) - Almost every opportunity I have to speak to Christian college students starts by asking, "Think about what you did yesterday. What percentage was secular and what percentage was spiritual?" No one has ever answered, "100 percent spiritual." But here's the thing. They should. The Apostle Paul tells the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 10:31: Whether you
- ["Go Tell It on the Mountain": Telling the Truth about Our Work](https://institutefc.org/go-tell-it-on-the-mountain/) - Editor’s note: This holiday season, we want to begin the countdown to Christmas by discussing the biblical truths found in our favorite Christmas carols and the connection these truths have to our work. This is the final post in this series; past posts covered the "Little Drummer Boy" and "Joy to the World." This week’s
- [Sanctification, Resolutions, and Becoming Who God Made You to Be](https://institutefc.org/sanctification-and-resolutions/) - We all want to find what is really important in life. As we look forward to 2017 and consider our goals and New Year's resolutions, how many of them are built around what we want to accomplish instead of who we want to become? In which approach do we find meaning and significance? Sanctification, Resolutions,
- [New Year's Resolutions and Work: What's the Purpose?](https://institutefc.org/new-years-resolutions-and-work/) - After Christmas and New Year’s, if you are like most people, it is hard to get excited about going back to work. A Gallup survey suggests 87 percent of workers worldwide are emotionally disconnected from their work and are more likely to find it a source of frustration than one of fulfillment. It is not
- [Reviving the Biblical Doctrine of Work in America](https://institutefc.org/the-biblical-doctrine-of-work-in-america/) - Francis Schaeffer's prophetic work A Christian Manifesto features a great quote about the lost biblical doctrine of work and how Christians can revive it in America. In the 1980s, Schaeffer wrote this about the United States: The basic problem of Christians in this country...in regard to society and in regard to government, is that they have
- [How the Beauty of Creation Inspires Us to Live and Work to the Fullest](https://institutefc.org/live-and-work-to-the-fullest/) - All of us have been mesmerized by the glory of a sunset or the beauty of freshly fallen snow across a barren landscape. Yet, as beautiful as nature can be, we are still unsatisfied. There should be something more. C.S. Lewis speaks to this troubling disparity in Weight of Glory: We do not want merely
- [On Christian Retirement](https://institutefc.org/on-christian-retirement/) - If work is an area in which we offer ourselves to God, how should Christians view retirement? Many people believe retirement means withdrawing from work or labor in order to enjoy life to the fullest without obligation, commitment, or worry. You can do what you feel like doing whenever you want to do it. Retirement
- [Work. Career. Calling. What's the Difference?](https://institutefc.org/the-difference-between-work-career-calling/) - When we are introduced to someone, what is one of the first questions we ask? "What do you do?" When we ask this question, what we really mean is, "What is your job?" We define ourselves by our careers. Even most Christians find their identities in their vocations. Our work no longer serves God. It
- [Christians and Wealth: How Much Is Too Much?](https://institutefc.org/christians-and-wealth-how-much-is-too-much/) - A sincere young man just starting his career asked, “As I continue to work and earn more money, should I at some point restrict the amount of my income?” He was listening to my colleague Anne Bradley on the radio discuss income from a Christian perspective. This question is not dissimilar to the question of
- [We Are Who We Spend Time With](https://institutefc.org/we-are-who-we-spend-time-with/) - "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." —Prov. 11:14 In a recent blog post, I mentioned one of my favorite quotes: You will be the same person in five years as you are today except for the people you meet and the books you read (Charles “Tremendous”
- [What's the Purpose of Business? HINT: It's Not Maximizing Shareholder Value](https://institutefc.org/whats-the-purpose-of-business-hint-its-not-maximizing-shareholder-value/) - But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today (Deut. 8:18). In a New York Times article in September, 1970, Milton Friedman emphatically stated that the purpose of business is to maximize
- [The Freedom of Working to Please Jesus, Not People](https://institutefc.org/the-freedom-of-working-to-please-jesus-not-people/) - How can service or being a servant be freedom? This is the question my colleague Art Lindsley asks in his booklet, Free Indeed: Living Life in Light of the Biblical View of Freedom. He writes, In Christ, we are freed from bondage in order to say 'Thy will be done.' We were headed down a
- [The Greatest Life Lesson My Father Taught Me](https://institutefc.org/the-greatest-life-lesson-my-father-taught-me/) - Jesus replied, "No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:62) On September 9th, 2013 my father had a massive stroke. Seven days later, he went to be with the Lord. My father's passing has given me reason to spend time thinking
- [Consider the Ant: Why Daily Faithfulness Matters](https://institutefc.org/consider-the-ant-why-daily-faithfulness-matters/) - Over 20 years ago, I heard a speaker named Jeff Olson give a talk on something he called “the Slight Edge.” The idea resonated with me, and ever since then it has had a significant influence on my life. I have come to realize it is a basic biblical principle woven into the fabric of
- [Imagine Work So Fulfilling that You Compose Poetry](https://institutefc.org/imagine-work-so-fulfilling-that-you-compose-poetry/) - In 1940, John Magee, Jr. crossed into Canada and enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force. He was one of hundreds of Americans who crossed the border to volunteer to fight for Great Britain against Hitler's war machine. One year later, Magee was sent to England as a fighter pilot and was assigned to the
- [Why "Character Goals" Should Be Your First Resolutions](https://institutefc.org/character-goals-resolutions/) - The plans of the diligent surely lead to advantage (Prov. 21:5). In the mid-sixties there was a successful television series called Run for Your Life. Actor Ben Gazzara plays a lawyer who is told by his doctor in the first episode that he will die in nine to eighteen months. Gazzara's character decides to do all
- [7 Tips for Writing Your Personal Vision Statement](https://institutefc.org/7-tips-writing-your-personal-vision/) - "Alice came to a fork in the road. 'Which road do I take?' she asked. 'Where do you want to go?' responded the Cheshire Cat. 'I don't know,' Alice answered. 'Then,' said the Cat, 'It doesn't matter.'" —Lewis Carroll, Alice In Wonderland As I discussed yesterday, discovering your personal vision is key to finding your
- [Heroism Deconstructed: Serving Faithfully <em>through</em> Our Work](https://institutefc.org/heroism-deconstructed-serving-faithfully-through-our-work/) - It was a day like any other day until it wasn’t. Tuesday, after climbing to 32,000 feet from New York's LaGuardia Airport, a huge blast shook the Boeing 737-700. A quick glance at her instruments told Captain Shults two things had happened, both of them bad: rapid depressurization of the main cabin and major engine
- [Stuck in the Wrong Job? Five Practical Tips from a Biblical Perspective](https://institutefc.org/stuck-in-the-wrong-job-five-practical-tips-from-a-biblical-perspective/) - A young man asked me the following question during a faith and work conference we were both attending: What should I do if I am stuck in the wrong job? Almost all of us can relate to this question because we have all been in jobs that just weren’t the best fit. You may have
- [What Building Our Dream Home Taught Me About Work](https://institutefc.org/what-building-our-dream-home-taught-me-about-work/) - It’s only the first day of summer and I’ve already logged numerous hours on my lawnmower cutting the grass. We’ve had record rainfall in the Washington, D.C. metro area, where we live. The grass seems to start growing as soon as I've mowed it. And, with the volume of grass and the terrain, my mower’s
- [Three Lessons I’ve Learned Leading a Nonprofit](https://institutefc.org/three-lessons-ive-learned-leading-a-nonprofit/) - Editor’s note: The following post contains excerpts from a recent interview of IFWE Executive Director Hugh Whelchel by Greg Kelm, Ph.D. student in Leadership Studies at Dallas Baptist University on the topic of nonprofit leadership. 1. As a leader, you have to walk the walk. Live out the truths of your own mission statement. [At
- [Real Productivity: Getting the Right Things Done](https://institutefc.org/real-productivity-getting-the-right-things-done/) - It's the beginning of a new year and productivity experts are out again hawking new apps to help you work faster and better in 2019. The emphasis on productivity is nothing new. Many years ago I heard a quote attributed to Thomas Edison: If we did all the things we are capable of, we would
- [Do You Crave Perfection and the Praise It Brings?](https://institutefc.org/do-you-crave-perfection-and-the-praise-it-brings/) - If you are not one of the over 36 million people who have watched UCLA college gymnast Katelyn Ohashi’s perfect floor exercise you need to watch it…go ahead, I’ll wait. I will have to admit that I knew who Katelyn Ohashi was, but I had not seen her routine. She and her teammates defeated my
- [Lessons in Faithfulness from My Favorite Veteran, My Father](https://institutefc.org/lessons-in-faithfulness-from-my-favorite-veteran-my-father/) - Jesus replied, "No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:62) On September 9th, 2013 my father had a massive stroke. Seven days later, he went to be with the Lord. My father's passing has given me reason to spend time thinking
- [Does Our Ambition Honor God?](https://institutefc.org/does-our-ambition-honor-god/) - "Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody." (1 Thess 4:11-12) In a 1970s television show, called
- [Businesses With Beliefs: What Makes a Company Christian?](https://institutefc.org/businesses-with-beliefs-what-makes-a-company-christian/) - Some of the largest companies in the United States have been identified as “Christian,” and this occasionally makes news headlines. Chick-fil-A, Hobby Lobby, Forever 21 and other companies have sustained scrutiny for being businesses with beliefs. Some companies have been identified as “Christian” by outside sources because of the convictions of their management. Others have openly branded themselves in
- [Setting Goals as Servants of God](https://institutefc.org/setting-goals-as-servants-of-god/) - If you knew without a doubt that you could not fail in accomplishing one major goal, what goal would you set for your life? I have heard this question for years in business circles when the subject of goal-setting comes up. It’s also one I think about between Christmas and the new year as I
- [Why We Need Adult Education on Faith & Work](https://institutefc.org/why-we-need-adult-education-on-faith-work/) - Dr. Matthew Kaemingk, co-author of Work and Worship: Reconnecting Our Labor and Liturgy and editor of Reformed Public Theology: A Global Vision for Life in the World, sent the following question/challenge out on Twitter and tagged several faith and work groups for responses, including ours: How do you convince pastors that the “massive gap” between
- [In the Workplace: True Tolerance vs. Moral Relativism](https://institutefc.org/in-the-workplace-true-tolerance-vs-moral-relativism/) - In our rapidly changing culture, tolerance has been enshrined as one of the ultimate virtues. Yet what exactly is tolerance? As believers, is tolerance something we should embrace or avoid? Perhaps the bigger question no one seems to be asking is, what’s the real result of “tolerance” in the workplace? True vs. False Tolerance In his book True
- [Vocational Calling & Our Identity in Christ](https://institutefc.org/vocational-calling-our-identity-in-christ/) - What’s the difference between your vocational calling and your career, occupation, or job? Vocational calling is the call to God and to his service in the vocational sphere of life based on giftedness, desires, affirmations, and human need. Vocational calling is usually stable and permanent over a lifetime. Discovering our vocation is possible because it
- [Work & Our Purpose in the New Year](https://institutefc.org/work-our-purpose-in-the-new-year/) - After Christmas and New Year’s, if you are like most people, it is hard to get excited about going back to work. One Gallup survey suggested that eighty-seven percent of workers worldwide are emotionally disconnected from their work and are more likely to find it a source of frustration than one of fulfillment. It is
- [Gospel-Driven Productivity: Getting the Right Things Done](https://institutefc.org/gospel-driven-productivity-getting-the-right-things-done/) - It's the beginning of a new year, and productivity experts are out again hawking new strategies to help you work faster and better. The emphasis on productivity is nothing new. Many years ago, I heard a quote attributed to Thomas Edison: If we did all the things we are capable of, we would literally astound
- [Is Our Ambition Being Used for God?](https://institutefc.org/is-our-ambition-being-used-for-god/) - "Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody." (1 Thess. 4:11-12) In a 1970s television show called
- [Biblical Truths I Wish Someone Had Shared with Me After Graduation](https://institutefc.org/biblical-truths-i-wish-someone-had-shared-with-me-after-graduation/) - Some of us never really got any good advice nor had good mentors early in our careers. We were left to fend for ourselves and as a result, made many mistakes. After a lifetime of work, here are five biblical truths that I wish someone had told me when I graduated. Your Work Matters to
- [How Did Vocation Inspire Martin Luther to Launch the Reformation?](https://institutefc.org/how-did-vocation-inspire-martin-luther-to-launch-the-reformation/) - Did you know Martin Luther was a media pioneer? In her New York Times article, "Long Before Twitter, Martin Luther Was a Media Pioneer," Tanya Mohn writes: Americans may know the basics of how Martin Luther was said to have nailed his 95 theses to a church door in Wittenberg, Germany, in 1517, condemning the
- [The Top Ten Books on Faith and Work—An Updated List for 2018](https://institutefc.org/the-top-ten-faith-and-work-books-updated-2018-list/) - It’s been nearly six years since IFWE published our first “top ten” list of books on faith and work. Since then, we’ve seen additional great books published that we want to bring to your attention. We’ve updated our “top ten” list with books that powerfully and creatively explain the biblical meaning of work. They are
- [What Can George Bailey, Jerry Maguire, and Gordon Gekko Teach Us About Entrepreneurship and Evangelism?](https://institutefc.org/george-bailey-jerry-maguire-gordon-gekko-teach-us-entrepreneurship-evangelism/) - What can George Bailey, Jerry Maguire, and Gordon Gekko teach us about entrepreneurship and evangelism? This question came to mind as I was reading Brad Reagan's recent essay, "What do George Bailey, Jerry Maguire, and Gordon Gekko Have in Common?" The answer was that each of these fictional characters tells us something about how America
- [The Vital Role of Work in Raising an American Adult](https://institutefc.org/the-vital-role-of-work-in-raising-an-american-adult/) - Adulting (v): to do grown up things and hold responsibilities such as, a 9 to 5 job, a mortgage/rent, a car payment, or anything else that makes one think of grown-ups. Is Becoming an Adult an Optional “Activity”? Over the last couple of years, the new word "adulting" has taken the social media world by
- [How Billy Graham's Legacy Shines in People Like Louis Zamperini](https://institutefc.org/billy-grahams-legacy-zamperini/) - It’s not often the life of one person impacts the lives of hundreds of millions of people around the globe. No doubt the news of Rev. Billy Graham passing’s was broadcast worldwide in many languages and to many cultures. Just imagine people on nearly every continent getting word of his death and having a personal
- [The Real Dignity of Working at Trader Joe's (and All Work)](https://institutefc.org/the-real-dignity-of-working-at-trader-joes-and-all-work/) - Social media and morning TV news shows have been abuzz the last few days with a story about The Cosby Show actor Geoffrey Owens, who was photographed working at Trader Joe’s. The photo was given to news organizations who appeared to use it to shame Owens for his apparent career “demotion." In response, the story
- [What Bach Teaches Us About Work, Worship, and Service](https://institutefc.org/what-bach-teaches-us-about-work-worship-and-service/) - Ask people who their favorite composer is, and you will get everyone from the “artist formally known as Prince” to Beethoven. But ask who the best composer of all time is, and a majority of people who know anything about music will tell you it is Johann Sebastian Bach. Bach lived in Germany in the
- [How Has the Christian Worldview Influenced the West?](https://institutefc.org/how-has-the-christian-worldview-influenced-the-west/) - Editor’s note: Hugh Whelchel was recently featured in an interview with Praxis Circle. Below are a few highlights of that conversation, which you can watch in full here. How has the Christian worldview influenced the West? I think historically you can make a strong argument that—forget maybe the last hundred years—you can go back to
- [Books We Like: The Book the Faith and Work Movement Has Been Missing](https://institutefc.org/the-book-the-faith-and-work-movement-has-been-missing/) - Publishers are releasing a flood of faith and work books these days. I tried reading every new book that was released, but I'm hopelessly behind. And I'm a fast reader! Someone asked me, "If you gave someone one book to read on faith and work, what book would you choose?" "It depends on who you're
- ['The Young Messiah' Is the Best Faith-Based Movie of the Year](https://institutefc.org/the-young-messiah/) - Hollywood executives have a love/hate relationship with believers and the Bible. Faith-based movies are performing increasingly well at the box office. In response, executives are greenlighting more of what they believe are redemptively-themed, biblically based movies. Instead, they're making movies that take liberties with the Bible and ridicule the faith of the very audience they
- [Selfies Aside, Jesus Is Still the Reason for the Season](https://institutefc.org/selfies-aside-jesus-is-still-the-reason-for-the-season/) - An old ad by the Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn shows a young woman taking a selfie. She’s not alone in the picture, though: an image of Jesus is just behind her. A caption at the top of the ad reads, "It’s never just a selfie," and at the bottom, the diocese bids viewers, “Join us for
- [Let These Stories of Christians Shaping Culture Inspire Your Work Today](https://institutefc.org/christians-shaping-culture-inspire-your-work/) - I read an interesting fact the other day in sociologist Rodney Stark's book, The Rise of Christianity. Stark claims that Christianity's 40 percent growth per decade during the first three centuries A.D. can be credited to the deep involvement of Christians in the fabric of their culture. He writes, Christianity served as a revitalization movement
- [Redemption Themes in Stories We Love: An Easter Reflection on Grace](https://institutefc.org/redemption-themes-in-stories-we-love-an-easter-reflection-on-grace/) - I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus
- [Why Do We All Watch "It’s a Wonderful Life" Every Christmas?](https://institutefc.org/why-watch-its-a-wonderful-life/) - I don’t know what happens at your house the week before Christmas, but at the Whelchel house we end up watching Frank Capra’s 1946 classic, It’s a Wonderful Life—every year. And apparently, we are not alone. Although it was initially a disappointment at the box office, this American Christmas fantasy drama has become one of the most loved
- [A Word on Which the World Turned](https://institutefc.org/a-word-on-which-the-world-turned/) - Kubernesis. It is a word that falls clumsily on our ears. This is because it is the English way of writing a Greek word. Yet it is a word that defined a dramatic shift in the course of the world, and it grants a meaning we ought to reclaim in our time.
- [By Keeping the Past Alive, Memorial Day Can Help Us Save the Future](https://institutefc.org/by-keeping-the-past-alive-memorial-day-can-help-us-save-the-future/) - Memorial Day is a profound American holiday because it connects the present with so many different points of our past. It was originally known as Decoration Day, a day set aside to honor those who lost their lives in the Civil War—America’s most costly war, taking the lives of at least 620,000 men.
- [Four Ways the Church Can Lead in Web 3.0](https://institutefc.org/four-ways-the-church-can-lead-in-web-3-0/) - As technology continues to advance rapidly, the Church must find ways to use new technologies to further the Kingdom of God. One of the newest and most exciting technological developments is Web 3.0, which is becoming widely adopted. To learn more about what Web 3.0 is, read my previous blog on this subject.
- [Empowering Laity](https://institutefc.org/empowering-laity/) - Connecting a group of people to its purpose starts with leaders. We’re tempted to talk more about the sacred. However, if God is redeeming all things, we must reframe how we invite others to a fresh Theology of Work.
- [How to Keep Up in a Rapidly Changing World](https://institutefc.org/how-to-keep-up-in-a-rapidly-changing-world/) - I was recently thinking about a UPS commercial where two consultants are telling a CEO everything they believe he should do to improve his company, such as building the supply chain and moving assembly overseas. When the CEO says to the consultants, “Great, do it!” the consultants are extremely confused and respond, “We don’t actually do what we propose. We just propose it.”
- [Work is Worship](https://institutefc.org/work-is-worship/) - Does your work really matter? In Genesis 2 we witness the Creator God inviting Adam and Eve to create alongside Him. God recognizes “there was no man to....
- [What is Web 3.0?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-web-3-0/) - Over the past few months, I’ve been increasingly asked to share about Web 3.0. Though my thoughts on this topic are still raw and not fully developed, I truly believe that the Church needs to be considering, praying, debating, analyzing, and wrestling with this kairos moment that is now upon us and will soon envelop the whole world.
- [Labor Day: A Gift From God](https://institutefc.org/labor-day-a-gift-from-god/) - Ask any secular American what Labor Day means to them, and he or she will likely say that it’s one last opportunity to relax and party at the end of the summer. Ask any Christian American, and he or she will likely say the same.
- [Labor Day: A Timeless American Holiday Rooted in God’s Creation](https://institutefc.org/labor-day-a-timeless-american-holiday-rooted-in-gods-creation/) - For most people, Labor Day is a rather vague holiday without the clarity and meaning typically associated with other holidays. Yet in its most complete context, Labor Day should be recognized as the holiday that celebrates not only labor, but also the ideas, job creators, and institutions central to the flourishing of the United States and its people.
- [Renewing Christian Leaders for the Future of Work](https://institutefc.org/renewing-christian-leaders-for-the-future-of-work/) - This is an age of change—from updating passwords to mastering the latest technology, we find ourselves in a fascinating and challenging time to be alive. We are living in the next Industrial Revolution, called Industry 4.0. This facilitates an unprecedented rate of change and need for innovation, and it limits the effectiveness of the previous command and control leadership practices.
- [Serial Plagiarism at Harvard University: The Strange Career of Claudine Gay](https://institutefc.org/serial-plagiarism-at-harvard-university-the-strange-career-of-claudine-gay/) - A serial plagiarist has no business serving on the faculty of any self-respecting college or university. Enter Claudine Gay, a child of privilege, educated at Philips Exeter Academy, Princeton, Stanford, and Harvard Universities. Each is a world class institution by reputation. In October 2023, Ms. Gay became Harvard University’s first ever Black president.
- [Human Dignity: Origins of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness](https://institutefc.org/human-dignity-origins-of-life-liberty-and-the-pursuit-of-happiness/) - In this position paper, the Center for Christian Statesmanship lays out a biblical and philosophical understanding of the dignity of humanity as the image of God.
- [7 Words of Encouragement for High School Graduates](https://institutefc.org/7-words-of-encouragement-for-high-school-graduates/) - Pastor Rob offers seven words of encouragement and biblical wisdom for high school graduates, as they enter into adulthood.
- [Don’t Waste Your Work: A Message to College Graduates](https://institutefc.org/dont-waste-your-work-a-message-to-college-graduates/) - Graduates must remember that their vocation is a divine calling. Through our work, we serve our neighbors and contribute to the flourishing of God's good world.
- [Parents: 7 Ways to Help Your College Graduate Face the Real World](https://institutefc.org/parents-7-ways-to-help-your-college-graduate-face-the-real-world/) - Pastor Rob discusses seven ways parents can support their adult children, now that they've graduated from college.
- [Top 10 Verses: The Cultural Mandate](https://institutefc.org/top-10-verses-the-cultural-mandate/) - The cultural mandate given in Genesis 1 describes God's purpose for humanity: to have fruitful dominion over the world. Here are the top ten passages related to the cultural mandate.
- [Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Who Stands Fast?](https://institutefc.org/dietrich-bonhoeffer-who-stands-fast/) - Dietrich Bonhoeffer, famed German Lutheran theologian and opponent to the Nazis, argues that is only allegiance to God that empowers men to stand fast in the face of evil.
- [8 Ways to Start the New School Year Strong](https://institutefc.org/8-ways-to-start-the-new-school-year-strong/) - As we start a new school year, it's good for Christian students to consider how to glory God in their work. Here are eight ways to start the year strong.
- [Redeeming Work on Labor Day](https://institutefc.org/redeeming-work-on-labor-day/) - The Lord intends to make use of us all, wherever we are. Through our labors, God intends to bring goodness, order, and beauty into the world.
- [When Ambrose Confronted the Emperor](https://institutefc.org/when-ambrose-confronted-the-emperor/) - Christians may be tempted to shrink away from politics for fear of offending. But courageous fidelity to the truth can transform even Emperors.
- [The Cruciform Glory of the Widow](https://institutefc.org/the-cruciform-glory-of-the-widow/) - Widows are a living icon of faith, longing for the bridegroom with hope greater than death. By them, God judges believers and kings. True religion cares for widows.
- [The Sanctity of Life](https://institutefc.org/the-sanctity-of-life/) - Read The Center for Christian Statesmanship's position paper: The Sanctity of Life, articulating a biblical view of protecting God's image.
- [Parental Rights](https://institutefc.org/parental-rights/) - Read the Center for Christian Statesmanship Position Paper on Parental Rights. Parental authority must be defended now more than ever.
- [Race and Justice](https://institutefc.org/race-and-justice/) - In this position paper, the Center for Christian Statesmanship lays out a biblical perspective on race, racial bigotry, and the error of Critical Race Theory.
- [What Mean These Stones?](https://institutefc.org/what-mean-these-stones/) - Sin causes us to forget who we are and who God is. Arlington whispers, "Duty, Honor, Sacrifice." These memorial stones remind us of our calling.
- [Immigration & National Security](https://institutefc.org/immigration-national-security/) - In this paper, the Center for Christian Statesmanship lays out a biblical perspective on immigration and the importance of national sovereignty.
- [Gender and Sexuality](https://institutefc.org/gender-and-sexuality/) - In this position paper, the Center for Christian Statesmanship lays out the background of modern gender ideology and the beautiful, biblical vision for God's image bearers.
- [Economy](https://institutefc.org/economy/) - In this position paper, the Center for Christian Statesmanship lays out a biblical perspective on the relationship between God's dominion, the economy, and fiscal responsibility.
- [Christians are Woefully Unprepared for this Cultural Moment](https://institutefc.org/christians-are-woefully-unprepared-for-this-cultural-moment/) - 40 million evangelicals aren't even registered to vote, while our recent survey shows 93% of evangelicals believe the Bible should guide their lives. We're not prepared for this fight.
- [Cultural Marxism](https://institutefc.org/cultural-marxism/) - "Cultural Marxism" is called a conspiracy theory. In this CCS paper, the historical development of cultural Marxism and their hatred of Christianity in their own words is discussed.
- [Hold the Line](https://institutefc.org/hold-the-line/) - Everywhere our culture is abandoning the truth and embracing comfortable deceptions. We must heed Paul's word to the Philippians. We must hold the line.
- [Immanuel: God with Us, at Christmas & at Work](https://institutefc.org/immanuel-god-with-us-at-christmas-at-work/) - Jesus is Immanuel, God with us. He's with us while we're working, or opening gifts by the tree. He is the meaning, motivation, and source of joy for both.
- [A New Year, A New Habit](https://institutefc.org/a-new-year-a-new-habit/) - The Christian life is a marathon. And like any endurance race, it requires consistent training. Spiritual habits are the training ground for a vibrant faith.
- [Culture Making Brings Glory to God](https://institutefc.org/culture-making-brings-glory-to-god/) - No matter what your vocation is, what your interests or God-given talents are, you are making culture in small ways every day. We should honor God with our culture-making.
- [Mission and Transformational Leadership](https://institutefc.org/mission-and-transformational-leadership/) - The most significant element of any organization is always its mission. Without a clear mission, no one can hope to achieve their goals.
- [Glorious Finitude: A Worldview Application](https://institutefc.org/glorious-finitude-a-worldview-application/) - Our society believes freedom is found in absolute free expression, but God has designed us as finite creatures. These limits are helpful boundaries that pave the way to true liberty.
- [Why Your Creativity Matters to God](https://institutefc.org/why-your-creativity-matters-to-god/) - Many Christians have a shrunken view of God's mission for us. You are the image of God! Your Creator made you to create.
- [9 Essential Points on the Theology of Work](https://institutefc.org/9-essential-points-on-the-theology-of-work/) - Many Christians see work as just grueling labor. Embracing God's creative perspective transforms everyday toil into a joyful calling that enlivens our lives and neighborhoods.
- [8 Steps Along the Path to Wisdom](https://institutefc.org/8-steps-along-the-path-to-wisdom/) - Navigating life without wisdom is like walking through a minefield. Discover 8 biblical steps to grow in godly wisdom and flourish in your calling.
- [Religious Expression in the Workplace Is Protected & Needed Now More Than Ever](https://institutefc.org/religious-expression-in-the-workplace-is-protected-needed-now-more-than-ever/) - Religious freedom doesn’t end when the work day begins. So do Christians know how to live out their faith in the workplace and do they feel empowered to do so?
- [What We Are Learning About the Theology of Work in 2025](https://institutefc.org/what-we-are-learning-about-the-theology-of-work-in-2025/) - Labor Day is a great time to meditate on the value of our work. We asked contributors to share what God has taught them about the theology of work lately.
- [Special Report from IFWE & ‘The Washington Times’ Casts a Clear Vision for Faith, Work & Economics](https://institutefc.org/special-report-from-ifwe-the-washington-times-casts-a-clear-vision-for-faith-work-economics/) - Christian leaders from a wide range of sectors have come together with IFWE and The Washington Times to publish a special report on faith, work, and economics.
- [Three Ways to Be Kind to Our Coworkers this Thanksgiving](https://institutefc.org/three-ways-to-be-kind-to-our-coworkers-this-thanksgiving/) - We can be kind because God was first kind to us, and for this we should be thankful! In our sorrow-filled world, let's share God's kindness with our coworkers.
- [Don't Forfeit US Sovereignty to Reset Federal Reserve System](https://institutefc.org/dont-forfeit-us-sovereignty-to-reset-federal-reserve-system/) - As we connect the dots and put together the puzzle of what’s going on globally, and here at home, we must first take ourselves out of denial, overcome the normalcy bias, and recognize that everything is different now than it has been at any previous time in history.
- [The Greatest Risk to Americans Is the Federal Government, Not Bank Fail](https://institutefc.org/the-greatest-risk-to-americans-is-the-federal-government-not-bank-fail/) - Globalist Deep State players may be pushing that narrative to promote fear which can prompt banks runs for the purpose of consolidation and centralization of banking institutions, which is a necessary stage to roll out a central bank digital currency (CBDC). But Americans should not be fooled.
- [Young People Should Hate Marxism](https://institutefc.org/young-people-should-hate-marxism/) - Marxism offers the prospect of a beautiful society, but it is built upon an atheistic and fatally flawed worldview. It only leads to destruction.
- [Top 10 Verses: Tyranny](https://institutefc.org/top-10-verses-tyranny/) - Continuing our Top 10 Verses series, we look at the topic of tyranny. What does God say about tyrants and what wisdom can we gain from scripture regarding righteous rule?
- [Depopulation and the Looming Catastrophe](https://institutefc.org/depopulation-and-the-looming-catastrophe/) - Despite decades of fearmongering about unsustainable population growth, the numbers show we are facing total demographic collapse. We must be fruitful and multiply.
- [A Powerful Defense of Capitalism](https://institutefc.org/a-powerful-defense-of-capitalism/) - A 2023 book offers a moral defense of free markets, exploring how freedom—within the bounds of God’s moral law—thrives only under free-market capitalism.
- [Redemptive Charity Requires More of Us](https://institutefc.org/redemptive-charity-requires-more-of-us/) - Helping others flourish is helping them discover the joy found in living by God’s design. This requires us to engage the poor with more than just resources.
- [Mamdani’s Rotten Hope for the Big Apple & America](https://institutefc.org/mamdanis-rotten-hope-for-the-big-apple-america/) - Christians should reject Mamdani's socialism because it distracts government from its God-ordained role in society. Here's what scripture says about that role.
- [Principals, Partners, or Pawns? Parents’ Role in Their Child’s Education](https://institutefc.org/principals-partners-or-pawns-parents-role-in-their-childs-education/) - Over the course of the past three-quarters of a century, the United States has undergone a process of intense secularization. This is not to say that most Americans have become atheists or that most Americans do not have religious views
- [Christian Witness in the Public Square? It’s Complicated](https://institutefc.org/christian-witness-in-the-public-square-its-complicated/) - I can remember when public Christian witness was a welcomed contribution to the life of the culture. In my recent article The Fourth Phase: Persecution? I mentioned Aaron Renn, who describes three phases of the relationship between the secular culture and biblical Christianity.
- [The Cultural Mandate and the Apostle Paul](https://institutefc.org/the-cultural-mandate-and-the-apostle-paul/) - A detailed study of the Old Testament shows several concrete examples of the gradual implementation of the Cultural Mandate through new inventions, discoveries, and other tangible achievements of humanity.
- [Sex and the City of God](https://institutefc.org/sex-and-the-city-of-god/) - For Christians, it is no longer surprising that the most popular television series and movies receive acclaim precisely for their antagonism of Christian values. But it remains disappointing that our society so easily dismisses the Christian moral framework that undergirds our nation’s founding and has guided most citizens’ aspirations for centuries.
- [The Spiritual State of Our Union: A Call to Action](https://institutefc.org/the-spiritual-state-of-our-union-a-call-to-action/) - While I am certainly concerned with the political and socio-economic state of our union, I am even more deeply concerned with the spiritual state of our union. Surely, we cannot put our hope and trust in governmental powers alone to heal our land.
- [Christ the Cosmic King](https://institutefc.org/christ-the-cosmic-king/) - I just think it’s so important in this hopeless age, where the effects of secularism are ubiquitous, to declare this message. But we have compartmentalized our faith, and thus, compartmentalized the gospel. The gospel has now become a message that tells me how I can get to heaven but does not tell me how it brings flourishing to society and how it extends God’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
- [The Church's Response to Human Trafficking](https://institutefc.org/the-churchs-response-to-human-trafficking/) - I shared my story with the pastor of my church and felt judged, and it was as if they had no idea how else to respond.” Haunting statements like this one no longer shock me.
- [Worldview and Education](https://institutefc.org/worldview-and-education/) - Worldview has often been described as a lens, a set of presuppositions, or a framework of beliefs. While related to theology, philosophy, politics and ideology, worldview is broader. It can be thought of as how we see things—the big picture.
- [What Is This Cultural Moment?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-this-cultural-moment/) - This is a very important topic because, having lived in the United States for several years, one of the things that is almost always missing in the Christian worldview is a sense of time. This starkly contrasts the biblical worldview, which is filled with numerous references to time, history, and generations.
- [Biblical Justice vs. Social Justice](https://institutefc.org/biblical-justice-vs-social-justice/) - Nobel Prize winning economist Fredrich Hayek once said, “I have come to feel strongly that the greatest service I can still render to my fellow men would be that I could make the speakers and writers among them thoroughly ashamed, ever again, to employ the term social justice.” I could not agree more with that sentiment. “Social justice” is a term that we need to avoid to any and every degree that we can. And I think it's a term that we don't understand.
- [The Cultural Mandate](https://institutefc.org/the-cultural-mandate/) - The expression “Cultural Mandate” is not a biblical designation, but it correctly describes a truth presented in Holy Scripture in association with the story of Creation. The Cultural Mandate relates to the command the earth's first human occupants–Adam and Eve–received when the Almighty assigned to them and their descendants a major project with significant and continuing implications and consequences.
- [Christian Statesmen: In the House of the Heroes](https://institutefc.org/christian-statesmen/) - What was this House of the Heroes? Scholars are unsure. Some say it was a place for the mighty men and great warriors to refresh and re-arm. Others say it was more a place of monuments to the heroes of ages past. Yet, whatever the exact nature of this revered place, the fact that it stood directly across from David’s tomb and that it was restored hundreds of years after it was built, indicates that the people of God had learned to honor both the hero and the heroic in their midst.
- [Fear and Fascination: Anticipating Artificial Intelligence](https://institutefc.org/fear-and-fascination-anticipating-artificial-intelligence/) - What would you say to Christians worried about AI and the future?
- [Free Speech: Conservatives, Liberals, and Leftists](https://institutefc.org/free-speech-conservatives-liberals-and-leftists/) - The possibility of a middle ground seems impossible to imagine today. But there is one thing with which no one can disagree—and this may be the only thing we can agree upon today in terms of our political and cultural debates. That is that we are polarized, politicized, and estranged between the extremes on both sides of the political spectrum.
- [Be Fruitful and Subdue the Earth: The Centrality of the Family in the Mission of the Church](https://institutefc.org/be-fruitful-and-subdue-the-earth-the-centrality-of-the-family-in-the-mission-of-the-church/) - Nothing in the world is arbitrary. Everything “seen and unseen,” as the Nicene Creed puts it, has been designed according to the purpose of God. If something is designed, this means it was constructed to fulfill a purpose.
- [True Courage and Sexual Identity in Politics](https://institutefc.org/true-courage-and-sexual-identity-in-politics/) - Much of what counts for true courage these days is the quiet labor that leads while louder voices whimper for attention. True courage doesn’t demand service; true courage serves. True courage learns and loves while no one’s looking.
- [Defining Humanity in Our Own Image](https://institutefc.org/defining-humanity-in-our-own-image/) - Expanding our life experiences, maximizing skill, advancing beyond routine—we are on a treadmill of seeking to transcend human frailty and live the way we want.
- [Engaging with Culture](https://institutefc.org/engaging-with-culture/) - I’m a Matthew 5:9 child. Were my heart a forest, peace would be the log cabin deep in the woods, with a spindling smoke trail winding above the evergreen. Still. Settled. Quiet. And longing to stay that way.
- [Defending the Faith in a Hostile World](https://institutefc.org/defending-the-faith-in-a-hostile-world/) - When we talk about defending the faith, a lot of times people get upset. We don't like the idea of apologetics. We don't like the idea of claiming to be right and assuming that other people are wrong.
- [Biden’s Careless Migrant Sponsor System Sends Kids Into Slavery](https://institutefc.org/bidens-careless-migrant-sponsor-system-sends-kids-into-slavery/) - We are guilty because we lure them here with the imagery of a safe-haven nation conjured up by Emma Lazarus’ poem ‘The New Colossus.’ We stopped being that nation decades ago.
- [What is Gen Z Looking For?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-gen-z-looking-for/) - When my daughter, Natasha, was in college, she made a project that featured angels. When she told the professor that she believed in angels and the Bible, her professor began going after her, saying those were fantasies and fables.
- [The Gospel and Identity in Christ](https://institutefc.org/the-gospel-and-identity-in-christ/) - If you have not heard the roar, you have probably been living in a closet. Pleading for understanding, love, and authentic care, many now boldly demand the church to allow Christians to articulate and even celebrate gay identity.
- [Critical Theory and the Bible](https://institutefc.org/critical-theory-and-the-bible/) - Contemporary critical theory may be a postmodern phenomenon, but its roots in older forms of modernism are often overlooked. It essentially distills the “methodological doubt” of Descartes into something less watered down—a “cask-strength” edition...
- [Thinking Biblically About Race](https://institutefc.org/thinking-biblically-about-race/) - We are all too familiar with the phenomenon of placing people into racial categories. News stations and social media never stop categorizing people according to different races...
- [“But If Not”: A Call for Modern-Day Christians to Stand Firm](https://institutefc.org/but-if-not-a-call-for-modern-day-christians-to-stand-firm/) - In a culture full of pressure to conform to prevailing ideologies or be canceled, the timeless message of Daniel 3:18 and the phrase "But if not" should serve as a powerful reminder to modern-day Christians...
- [Wake Up, America!](https://institutefc.org/wake-up-america/) - The church in America has been asleep and is slowly waking up. God’s people can no longer stay silent as we are faced with following new government policies that are opposed to God’s laws. We need to wake up. We need to stand up. We need to speak up.
- [Cultural Marxism is Real](https://institutefc.org/cultural-marxism-is-real/) - Cultural Marxism, the so-called “ultimate wisdom of the world,” is foolishness in God’s eyes (1 Corinthians 3:19). Worldly foolishness is reflected most prominently in the denials we see dismissing the existence of cultural Marxism.
- [What’s Wrong with Social Justice?](https://institutefc.org/whats-wrong-with-social-justice/) - The progressive Left has so captured our educational institutions, large corporations, and social media conversations that it is now quite risky for evangelicals to dissent from any of its beliefs. Prospective students and job candidates are now evaluated on how deeply committed they are to “social justice.”
- [Finding the Truth is the Key to Solving America’s Most Difficult Problems](https://institutefc.org/finding-the-truth-is-the-key-to-solving-americas-most-difficult-problems/) - A troubling question for so many today is “How did the United States, the most successful and advanced nation in history, fall into the current state of decline so rapidly?” The easy answer, which absolves people from responsibility, is that decline is an inevitable law of history.
- [Reflections on the Eve of Constitution Day–September 17](https://institutefc.org/reflections-on-the-eve-of-constitution-day-september-17/) - Americans are divided and confused about more issues than ever before, a condition that is surely celebrated by the enemies of the United States. Suicide rates in America have reached record highs in the last two years, an indication that the state of demoralization of American society is well advanced...
- [Worldview Matters: Why We Should Take Every Thought Captive](https://institutefc.org/worldview-matters-why-we-should-take-every-thought-captive/) - In its simplest definition, a worldview is a story about the world, a story that carries within it a set of basic beliefs about the most fundamental issues in life. Francis Schaeffer defined a worldview as “the grid through which one sees the world...”
- [Why American Christians Should Support Israel](https://institutefc.org/why-american-christians-should-support-israel/) - Hamas launched an unprecedented large-scale invasion of Israel’s southern border with Gaza on October 7. It fired thousands of rockets into residential areas and stormed Israeli towns, to kill soldiers and civilians alike. The strikes led to more than 1,400 Israeli deaths, the most casualties in modern Israel’s history.
- [Onward, Christian Soldiers](https://institutefc.org/onward-christian-soldiers/) - America is going to Hades in a handbasket. A large portion of Americans agree we’re headed in the wrong direction. But when Christians try to get more involved in the culture and in politics, they are often told to cease and desist—sometimes even by fellow professing Christians.
- [Reformation Day: Why October 31st Is a Big Deal](https://institutefc.org/reformation-day-why-october-31st-is-a-big-deal/) - On October 31, people around the world will celebrate Halloween. In the United States, this usually entails carving pumpkins, eating candy corn, and placing signs by candy bowls on the porch that say, “Take one.”
- [Fighting for our Families](https://institutefc.org/fighting-for-our-families/) - We the people. The first three words of the United States Constitution and the foundational principle of our republic. We elect government officials to represent our interests. We speak out against unjust policies and laws. We file lawsuits when our civil liberties or religious liberties are violated. But first, we must be educated on the issues and then vote for candidates who fight for the issues we support.
- [How to Host a Christ-Centered Thanksgiving](https://institutefc.org/how-to-host-a-christ-centered-thanksgiving/) - Read More...
- [Make a Joyful Noise: How Christianity Has Shaped Culture Through Music](https://institutefc.org/make-a-joyful-noise-how-christianity-has-shaped-culture-through-music/) - As a pastor who weekly participates in worship, I’m often struck by the sheer power of music to inspire awe, evoke emotion, and penetrate the soul. No wonder the average person now spends approximately twenty hours a week listening to music. It’s no surprise that researchers have discovered that music boosts a person’s mood, combats certain forms of mental illness, and protects against dementia and cognitive decline.
- [Preserving Philadelphia's Legacy and History](https://institutefc.org/preserving-philadelphias-legacy-and-history/) - It is truly extraordinary that the Biden administration has chosen Welcome Park in Philadelphia as the site to reassert the Native Americans' legacy. This small park, celebrating William Penn's history, is named for the ship that brought him to America, where he established "the seed of a nation" and a "holy experiment."
- [Life is Always Worth the Fight](https://institutefc.org/life-is-always-worth-the-fight/) - She walked into our clinic nauseous and praying, although she had never before acknowledged God's presence in her life.
- [Educational Foundation: Ideology or Theology](https://institutefc.org/educational-foundation-ideology-or-theology/) - Education is a vast topic with its form, substance, and aims, and most of us think about education in terms of schooling. Virtually all of us have attended school, therefore our connection between education and school is rather strong. The typical day school student spends at least 16,000 hours in schooling from kindergarten to high school graduation.
- [Pax Romana, Pax Americana Be Damned](https://institutefc.org/pax-romana-pax-americana-be-damned/) - Christ’s coming into the world was the beginning of God’s revolution against all powers that did not bow to him but instead served demonic masters. The writing of the gospels of Jesus Christ was, therefore, a revolutionary act. While Christians today often fail to realize this, the same cannot be said of the rulers of the Jews and Romans.
- [Mr. President, the State of the Union is NOT Strong](https://institutefc.org/mr-president-the-state-of-the-union-is-not-strong/) - President Biden’s State of the Union address was largely full of empty boasting, posturing, and lavish promises about how big government is going to fix all your problems. In fact, he promised four more years of a progressive agenda that is morally bankrupt.
- [Xi Van Fleet, a Sage for Turning Around a Troubled America](https://institutefc.org/xi-van-fleet-a-sage-for-turning-around-a-troubled-america/) - Outsiders often have more and better insights on societies and countries than native people. Such was the case with Alexis de Tocqueville, a Frenchman who traveled widely through America during 1831 and 1832.
- [Hope for the Transgender Crisis](https://institutefc.org/hope-for-the-transgender-crisis/) - When Chris was young, he wanted nothing more than to be like his older brother. He walked like a boy, talked like a boy and even copied his brother’s handwriting style. He played sandlot football and Little League baseball with the boys.
- [Easter: Why It’s A Big Deal](https://institutefc.org/easter-why-its-a-big-deal/) - This is the week leading up to Easter. That much is clear, known to everybody in our purview—secular neighbors, mainstream media, national retailers, and more. However, what is unclear to many secular people is what Easter means and why it’s a big deal.
- [The Light Behind the Present Dark Clouds](https://institutefc.org/the-light-behind-the-present-dark-clouds/) - Ask any American who remembers what life was like twenty-five or more years ago, and he or she is likely to say that in the most important areas, life was significantly better.
- [There’s Only One Reason for Celebration on Easter Sunday](https://institutefc.org/theres-only-one-reason-for-celebration-on-easter-sunday/) - President Trump has faced criticism for his recent venture of selling MAGA-endorsed Bibles. While I probably would have advised him against it due to potential interpretations of poor taste, what truly astounds me is the resounding silence from these same critics regarding President Biden's declaration of Easter Sunday as Trans Visibility Day.
- [Evangelical Christians and the Transgender Movement](https://institutefc.org/evangelical-christians-and-the-transgender-movement/) - An 82-year-old woman is now taking steps to sue her local YMCA for banning her from its facilities and triggering “mob-like attacks, public humiliation, and widespread mendacious reporting.”
- [Is Religious Liberty 'Hanging by a Thread'?](https://institutefc.org/is-religious-liberty-hanging-by-a-thread/) - Progressive activists want to banish religious exercise from the public square, but the free exercise of religion is necessary for preserving justice.
- [Young Women, We're No Longer Safe in America](https://institutefc.org/young-women-were-no-longer-safe-in-america/) - The Biden Admin has re-written Title IX, allowing men into women's spaces, leaving real women without recourse.
- [Thinking Biblically About Race](https://institutefc.org/thinking-biblically-about-race-2/) - According to the Bible, skin color does not make us who we are, and, in Christ, all the nations are being united as one people.
- [The Whiplash Effect of the Transgender Agenda](https://institutefc.org/the-whiplash-effect-of-the-transgender-agenda/) - The battle against transgender madness is a back and forth whiplash. But truth is enduring.
- [The soul of the US is up for grabs - Can it be restored?](https://institutefc.org/the-soul-of-the-us-is-up-for-grabs-can-it-be-restored/) - We're told the "soul of the nation" needs restoration. But a godless agenda won't do. Here are four steps to restore the nation.
- [Are We Running Out Of Institutions to Destroy?](https://institutefc.org/are-we-running-out-of-institutions-to-destroy/) - Activists want to abolish gender distinctions from every fact of life. The Boy Scouts are just the latest institution to cave.
- [Saving America Requires Unprecedented Engagement by the Citizens](https://institutefc.org/saving-america-requires-unprecedented-engagement-by-the-citizens/) - America was built by courageous individuals who acted upon biblical principles. To save America, Christians must get involved at every level of our society.
- [You Reap What You Sow: The Irony of Campus Protests](https://institutefc.org/you-reap-what-you-sow-the-irony-of-campus-protests/) - Leftist academics have produced hordes of disaffected revolutionaries. Now they're getting a taste of their own medicine.
- [Post-Dobbs Pro-Life Policy and Strategy: What Does That Look Like?](https://institutefc.org/post-dobbs-pro-life-policy-and-strategy-what-does-that-look-like/) - With Roe v. Wade overturned by SCOTUS in the Dobbs decision, the abortion battle has been transformed. What should pro-life strategy be moving forward?
- [Talking with Your Kids about Pride Month](https://institutefc.org/talking-with-your-kids-about-pride/) - Pride Month is a religious festival that seeks to train us into unbiblical ways of living. How can you talk to your kids about Pride from a biblical perspective?
- [An Uncomfortable Calling: What Jonah Can Teach Us About Cultural Engagement](https://institutefc.org/an-uncomfortable-calling-what-jonah-can-teach-us-about-cultural-engagement/) - The story of Jonah can tell us a great deal about how to engage with culture as Christians. May we go into the world with great boldness where Jonah was hesitant.
- [The Collapse of American Education (Pt. 1) - A Sobering Look at the Numbers](https://institutefc.org/the-collapse-of-american-education-pt-1/) - Millions of parents are removing their children from public schools as test scores decline, and political and sexual indoctrination rises. We must radically reform education.
- [The Gnostic West: Ancient Heresy and the Contemporary Western Worldview (Pt. 1)](https://institutefc.org/ancient-heresy-and-the-contemporary-western-worldview-pt-1/) - Most westerners today have embraced the ancient heresy of Gnosticism without even realizing it.
- [The Gnostic West: Ancient Heresy and the Contemporary Western Worldview (Pt. 2)](https://institutefc.org/the-gnostic-west-ancient-heresy-and-the-contemporary-western-worldview-pt-2/) - The modern West has embraced the ancient Gnostic heresy. We have made ourselves to be god and believe true fulfillment only comes from living out our inner desires.
- [The Collapse of American Education (Pt. 2) - Our Squandered Inheritance](https://institutefc.org/the-collapse-of-american-education-pt-2-our-squandered-inheritance/) - It is the Christian religion which is responsible for the greatest educational development in the world. But we have squandered our inheritance.
- [Redefining Hate in our Secular Age](https://institutefc.org/redefining-hate-in-our-secular-age/) - In our secular age, hate has been redefined to mean any disagreement with someones lifestyle or choices. As such, Christians are now regarded as the most hateful bigots of all.
- [The Collapse of American Education (Pt. 3) - The Christian History of our Colleges](https://institutefc.org/the-collapse-of-american-education-pt-3-the-christian-history-of-our-colleges/) - The American education system has always been religious. In fact, until the mid 19th century, every college and university was founded by a Christian denomination.
- [The Collapse of American Education (Pt 4) - The Founders on Christianity & Classical Education](https://institutefc.org/the-collapse-of-american-education-pt-4-the-founders-on-christianity-classical-education/) - In part four of this series, we see that Christianity was understood to be the bedrock of our Republic, which the founders earnestly promoted for the good of all Americans.
- [Don't Know Much About History](https://institutefc.org/dont-know-much-about-history/) - A nation that doesn't know its past won't understand who they are today. Unfortunately, the data shows that Americans are more clueless about history than ever.
- [The Collapse of American Education (Pt. 5) - The Church Surrenders to Liberalism](https://institutefc.org/the-collapse-of-american-education-pt-5-the-church-surrenders-to-liberalism/) - When the Church held to the immutable authority of scripture, it provided a check against propaganda. But godless ideologues have seized the American classroom.
- [The Pelagian West: Ancient Heresy and the Contemporary Western Worldview (Pt 3)](https://institutefc.org/the-pelagian-west-ancient-heresy-and-the-contemporary-western-worldview-pt-3/) - In part three of our series, we look at the ancient heresy of Pelagianism. The thought of Pelagius overlaps with our modern worldview in surprising ways.
- [The Collapse of American Education (Pt. 6) - A Godless Revolution in the Classroom](https://institutefc.org/the-collapse-of-american-education-pt-6-a-godless-revolution-in-the-classroom/) - No one is responsible for the collapse of education more than John Dewey, who saw public education as the perfect tool for promoting Marxism and atheism.
- [The Pelagian West: Ancient Heresy and the Contemporary Western Worldview (Pt 4)](https://institutefc.org/the-pelagian-west-ancient-heresy-and-the-contemporary-western-worldview-pt-4/) - Continuing our series on ancient heresies and our modern worldview, we look at Pelagianism and consider how these ideas are viral today.
- [The Olympics: A Microcosm of the Battle in the Heavenly Realms](https://institutefc.org/the-olympics-a-microcosm-of-the-battle-in-the-heavenly-realms/) - Paul reminds us that we do not wage war against men, but spiritual forces of evil. The blasphemy of the 2024 Olympics is a microcosm of that spiritual war.
- [That Pesky First Amendment](https://institutefc.org/that-pesky-first-amendment/) - To the radical left, the First Amendment is a hurdle to overcome that stands in the way of their agenda. The First Amendment is a gift to keep us free.
- [What is Reformation Day and Why Does It Matter?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-reformation-day-and-why-does-it-matter/) - As October 31 approaches the world bursts into activity: get the candy, pumpkins, and Halloween costumes. For the Church, October 31 is something much more significant: Reformation Day.
- [In a True Vote Count, Trump Will Win in a Landslide](https://institutefc.org/in-a-true-vote-count-trump-will-win-in-a-landslide/) - This election will see voting irregularities. But the last four years of chaos has shown the American people that we must change the course of our nation.
- [Voting Against More Transgender Madness](https://institutefc.org/voting-against-more-transgender-madness/) - As Americans head to the polls, the mutilation of children in the name of a nefarious ideology should not be a partisan issue—it’s a moral one.
- [God is Not Done With America Yet](https://institutefc.org/god-is-not-done-with-america-yet/) - The choice the Democrats offered was a rejection of our Christian ethic. But God is not done with America yet. We deserved judgment, yet received mercy.
- [Transgender Issues: From Tipping Point to Turning Point (Part 1)](https://institutefc.org/transgender-issues-from-tipping-point-to-turning-point-part-1/) - Today marks the beginning of Transgender Awareness Week. The last thing Americans need—or want—is more awareness of transgenderism, which is upending society.
- [The True Story of Thanksgiving](https://institutefc.org/the-true-story-of-thanksgiving/) - The American tradition of Thanksgiving honors God's providence in blessing the early pilgrims. For Christians, gratitude is our way of life, flowing from the gospel.
- [From Transgender Tipping Point to Turning Point (Pt. 2)](https://institutefc.org/from-transgender-tipping-point-to-turning-point-pt-2/) - Part 1 of this series covered the meteoric rise of transgenderism. In Part 2, we explore the beginning of the backlash.
- [From Transgender Tipping Point to Turning Point (Pt. 3)](https://institutefc.org/from-transgender-tipping-point-to-turning-point-pt-3/) - Part 3 discusses recent whistleblowers and the Cass Review, which proved the obvious: trans "medicine" is a fraud. Opposition is mounting as hiding the truth is now impossible.
- [The Heart of Christmas: A Humble Savior and a Heavenly King](https://institutefc.org/the-heart-of-christmas/) - The confusion of the true spirit of Christmas is engineered by the enemy of our souls. Paul reveals the heart of Christmas is the humility, servanthood, and exaltation of Christ.
- [Why We Celebrate: A New Year’s Reflection](https://institutefc.org/why-we-celebrate-a-new-years-reflection/) - Celebration is often an act joyous remembrance, commemorating what has come before. As we enter this year, may we remember that God holds our time in his hands.
- [From Transgender Tipping Point to Turning Point (Pt 4)](https://institutefc.org/from-transgender-tipping-point-to-turning-point-pt-4/) - While most of us didn't cheer when Bruce-turned-Caitlyn Jenner was celebrated, few expressed dissent out of fear of being labeled a bigot. Ten years later, we are emboldened.
- [Our Children, Climate, and the Future](https://institutefc.org/our-children-climate-and-the-future/) - Climate alarmists claim to protect our children, yet their green policies threaten their future. Unless we change course, we will see a more dangerous future.
- [Mind Over Matter: The Danger of Transgenderism](https://institutefc.org/mind-over-matter-the-danger-of-transgenderism/) - The Institute is pleased to announce Emily Huseman as our first National Essay Contest Winner! Her essay contrasts secular materialism with the biblical view that dignifies humanity—body and mind alike.
- [Reclaiming Biblical Manhood from the 'Manosphere'](https://institutefc.org/reclaiming-biblical-manhood-from-the-manosphere/) - The Bible's vision of masculinity stands in contrast to the toxic distortions of modern culture. Here are five Biblical principles about manhood to consider.
- [This Year’s ‘Pride’ is Not So Proud](https://institutefc.org/this-years-pride-is-not-so-proud/) - While it may relieve Christians that Pride Month is on the decline, we must resist the temptation to celebrate and get complacent.
- [Jordan Peterson’s Achilles Heel](https://institutefc.org/jordan-petersons-achilles-heel/) - Jordan Peterson is causing confusion over whether or not he considers himself a Christian. Here's why and how we can pray for him.
- [Is ‘Conclave’ Correct About Certainty?](https://institutefc.org/is-conclave-correct-about-certainty/) - The hit film "Conclave" put forward some interesting claims about doubt and certainty. Here's the full truth of why we can be certain about our faith.
- [Why Is Culture Important? Lessons from the Life of Hugh Whelchel](https://institutefc.org/why-is-culture-important-lessons-from-the-life-of-hugh-whelchel/) - Hugh Whelchel spent his life helping Christians apply their faith to every part of their lives. Hear what he said about culture in one of his final interviews.
- [Lies Your College Professors May Tell You & How to Counter Them](https://institutefc.org/lies-your-college-professors-may-tell-you-how-to-counter-them/) - College students, as you stand firm in the marketplace of ideas, here are several lies you can expect a college professor to tell you, and how to counter them.
- [My Conversion to Christ & The Cost of Leaving My LGBTQ+ Lifestyle](https://institutefc.org/my-conversion-to-christ-the-cost-of-leaving-my-lgbtq-lifestyle/) - Rosaria Butterfield shares how her conversion was messing, resulting in losing friends and cultural capital, but worthwhile to become a friend of God.
- [Worldview Formation in the Christian School](https://institutefc.org/worldview-formation-in-the-christian-school/) - All truth is God’s truth … and Christian schooling is essential and ultimately beneficial to the common good because, in the sovereignty of God, there is no other opportunity quite so plausible in which a child can be furnished with the knowledge of the scriptures and thereby develop a Christian world-view.
- [Truth or Consequences](https://institutefc.org/truth-or-consequences/) - Christians ought to tend our worldview on a regular basis. The apostle Paul reminds us of this as he writes in Colossians 2: “…see to it that no one takes you captive by hollow and deceptive philosophy …”
- [Is a Frozen Embryo a Person?](https://institutefc.org/is-a-frozen-embryo-a-person/) - Read More...
- [Hope for the Future](https://institutefc.org/hope-for-the-future/) - Life is on the ballot in November. But this is about more than just policy. I want to offer hope to women facing an unwanted pregnancy by sharing my story.
- [The Christian War on Child Sacrifice](https://institutefc.org/the-christian-war-on-child-sacrifice/) - God hates child sacrifice. Perhaps no ethical principle within the scriptures is more consistent than the ethic of preserving life.
- [Marriage and Family](https://institutefc.org/marriage-and-family/) - In this position paper, the Center for Christian Statesmanship lays out a biblical perspective on marriage and family as the building block of society.
- [Wild, Righteous Fathering](https://institutefc.org/wild-righteous-fathering/) - We need a movement of wild, righteous fathering. We need men who seek to understand God, and who model and instill righteous conduct in their children.
- [Understanding God’s Design for Men & Legacy](https://institutefc.org/understanding-gods-design-for-men-legacy/) - Most men live for their own pleasure and comforts rather than the ways of God. Instead, we need men to be mighty warriors living for God's glory.
- [From the Womb to the Tomb: One Blood, One Race, One Hope](https://institutefc.org/from-the-womb-to-the-tomb-one-blood-one-race-one-hope/) - America needs more decisions, not divisions. Decisions for truth, for compassion, for life, and to follow Jesus Christ, our Living Hope.
- [Jesus Christ, The World’s Only Hope](https://institutefc.org/jesus-christ-the-worlds-only-hope/) - Outside my study window, autumnal winds have stripped bare the trees and a grey squirrel is busy hoarding away another chestnut. I briefly ponder the wonder of the natural world with all its abundance and variety.
- [This Changes Everything: Why the Resurrection is True and Why It Matters](https://institutefc.org/this-changes-everything-why-the-resurrection-is-true-and-why-it-matters/) - On Easter Sunday, Christians gather to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. That much is clear. What is not clear to many people, however, is what the resurrection means to Christians, why it matters, and whether it is actually true.
- [Easter Celebrates the Event That Forever Changed the World](https://institutefc.org/easter-celebrates/) - Christ was unique in that he gave up his life as a sacrifice in order to fulfill why he came into the world. Christ set the absolute highest standard of love possible, both in his teachings and also in making the ultimate sacrifice — giving his life to rescue and save mankind.
- [Columbus and the Bible at the Doorway to His District: A Time Capsule of America’s Faith](https://institutefc.org/columbus-and-the-bible-at-the-doorway-to-his-district-a-time-capsule-of-americas-faith/) - These truths carved in stone remind us that the Christian faith has been a vital part of the American enterprise. Union Station is a time capsule depicting previous generations’ faith and values. This doorway to the Capital points to the Scriptures and to Christ.
- [The Christian Manifesto: A Challenge to the Church in Times of Upheaval](https://institutefc.org/the-christian-manifesto-a-challenge-to-the-church-in-times-of-upheaval/) - Public trust in the ancient foundations of the Western social and political order is shaking noticeably, anticipating massive upheaval, if not complete collapse. The loss of public confidence in our institutions is both shocking and pervasive.
- [Kings and Beasts: Sin Makes Us Monstrous](https://institutefc.org/kings-and-beasts-sin-makes-us-monstrous/) - The grand story is about Christ; and also, the many stories that make up the grand narrative are each about him too. Over the course of three parts we will explore the biblical theme of the kingdom of God and his war to subdue every beast.
- [Memorial Day: America’s Transcendent Holiday](https://institutefc.org/memorial-day-americas-transcendent-holiday/) - If the last few generations of Americans understood the origin and meaning of Memorial Day, we might have avoided the trauma of division and corruption that now threatens the United States as never before.
- [Christianity and America’s Founding](https://institutefc.org/christianity-and-americas-founding/) - Few debates cause more division than that of America’s religious roots. An increasing number of Americans view our founding as purely secular and without Christian underpinning. But an objective and rigorous study of the Founding Era supports this conclusion: America’s founding and our freedoms were made possible by a thorough-going Christian theological framework.
- [Why July Fourth Is America’s Holy Day](https://institutefc.org/why-july-fourth-is-americas-holy-day/) - Too many Americans underappreciate the meaning of holidays such as July 4th, also known as Independence Day. While some connect fireworks with the firing of cannons in the Revolutionary War, most forget that when the 56 members of the Continental Congress agreed to put pen to parchment and affirm the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, all knew that being a signatory put a death threat on their heads as traitors to Britain.
- [Heavy Bears 'The Crown'](https://institutefc.org/heavy-bears-the-crown/) - Ideas that inspire man to form a nation must first be planted within our minds like seeds to grow. But just because something grows doesn’t mean it bears good fruit, nor does it mean the seed planted was ever good in the first place.
- [Historic Biblical Christianity & Contemporary Progressive Christianity](https://institutefc.org/historic-biblical-christianity-contemporary-progressive-christianity/) - Recently in light of the increasing challenges by the persistent and penetrating movement of Progressive Christianity within the Evangelical Church in general and my own denomination—the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA)—in particular, I made a book recommendation to the 20+ young men in my Pastoral Mentoring Group as well as to the Briarwood Session and Diaconate with whom I am honored to serve as Senior Pastor. The book recommendation was the recently published “Legacy Edition” of Christianity and Liberalism by the noted professor, educator, preacher, scholar, and churchman, J. Gresham Machen.
- [The Simple Truth About Reversing America’s Current Death Spiral](https://institutefc.org/the-simple-truth-about-reversing-americas-current-death-spiral/) - Reflecting in the aftermath of July Fourth reminds us that the craziness sweeping the country is fundamentally out of national character and goes way beyond politics and election cycle conflict. In fact, in all the areas critical to sustaining the viability and sovereignty of the U.S., the decline has been accelerating so fast that failure and collapse could take place in a matter of years – not decades – if the death spiral trends are not stopped and reversed.
- [A Divine Mandate](https://institutefc.org/a-divine-mandate/) - At the dawn of creation, God entrusted His children with a command, giving them instruction to "Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth" (Genesis 1:28).
- [Dual Missions of the Christian Faith: Embracing the Great Commission and the Cultural Mandate](https://institutefc.org/dual-missions-of-the-christian-faith-embracing-the-great-commission-and-the-cultural-mandate/) - As Christians, we are called to embrace the Great Commission and the Cultural Mandate, two essential aspects of our faith that empower us to impact the world in profound ways.
- [The Cultural Mandate: Embracing Divine and Cultural Responsibilities](https://institutefc.org/the-cultural-mandate-embracing-divine-and-cultural-responsibilities/) - Rooted in the belief that God has bestowed a divine mandate upon His followers, Christians are called to embrace both our private spiritual lives as well as our public roles in shaping and influencing the culture around us.
- [A Message to Christian College Students](https://institutefc.org/a-message-to-christian-college-students/) - Dear Christian College Student, Congratulations on reaching this exciting milestone—you’re headed to campus for the fall semester! Whether it’s your first year or your senior year, you’ve got a fresh start, for the fall semester represents a new chapter of your life.
- [Where Does the Bible Talk About the Cultural Mandate?](https://institutefc.org/where-does-the-bible-talk-about-the-cultural-mandate/) - Most Christians are familiar with the Great Commission—Jesus Christ's instruction to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey his commandments (Matthew 28:19-20). Fewer are familiar with Jesus’ second mandate, which runs parallel to the Great Commission, called the Cultural Mandate.
- [Praying for Our Nation](https://institutefc.org/praying-for-our-nation/) - “If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14, NIV).
- [Why Columbus Day Should Be Celebrated](https://institutefc.org/why-columbus-day-should-be-celebrated/) - The real Columbus, whom few today know much about, is an exemplary figure worthy of celebrating for many reasons. He was born in 1451 in the port city of Genoa, in what is now Italy, and was named Cristoforo Colombo. It has been said that he chose to call himself Christopher Columbus because he liked what this name meant. In Latin, Columbus means “dove” while Christopher means “Christ-bearer.”
- [The Nations Rage in Vain](https://institutefc.org/the-nations-rage-in-vain/) - The last few years have witnessed increased tensions among the world’s powers. China has attempted to control the South China Sea. Russia launched a series of unjust strikes against Ukraine and is embroiled in a full-fledged conventional war. And now, Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel, slaughtering many civilians, and now seeks the support of Iran and Hezbollah in its jihad to obliterate Israel from the map.
- [Warning: The Devastating Trajectory of Christ-less Conservatism](https://institutefc.org/warning-the-devastating-trajectory-of-christ-less-conservatism/) - Throughout history, faith and political conservatism have intertwined. Ideologically, conservatism serves as a beacon of traditional values, advocating for prudence, fiscal responsibility, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Yet what we are witnessing today in the landscape of political conservatism should cause alarm for those who put their faith in Christ.
- [Thanksgiving is Just One of Five Pilgrim Achievements Four Centuries Ago](https://institutefc.org/thanksgiving-is-just-one-of-five-pilgrim-achievements-four-centuries-ago/) - The Thanksgiving holiday, which commemorates one part of the Pilgrim story, remains the favorite holiday for many Americans—and for good reasons beyond enjoying a feast. With our country passing through troubled times, it is worth revisiting the Pilgrims’ five significant achievements, which created the seminal story of America and reveal remarkable insight into who we are and the qualities of character we need to overcome our present challenges.
- [Harvard and America](https://institutefc.org/harvard-and-america/) - In the two months following the October 7 Hamas massacre of more than 1,200 people in Israel, Hamas supporters and progressive sympathizers have threatened and targeted Jews worldwide. In the United States, the situation is no better. The Anti-Defamation League reports 2,031 antisemitic incidents since October 7, which is 337% more than last year’s reported incidents during the same two-month period. These incidents include physical assault, vandalism, verbal harassment, and antisemitic rallies.
- [The Cradle That Rocked the World](https://institutefc.org/the-cradle-that-rocked-the-world/) - A few years ago, American Atheists launched two nationwide billboard campaigns urging viewers to celebrate Christmas by skipping holiday worship gatherings. The first billboard depicts a young woman informing a friend that she won’t be going to church with them and that her parents will “get over it.” The second billboard mocks Trump supporters, urging viewers to “Make Christmas Great Again!” by rejecting Jesus, who is the reason for the season.
- [What If Jesus Had Never Been Born](https://institutefc.org/what-if-jesus-had-never-been-born/) - This Christmas, with Christians reflecting on the significance of Jesus’ birth, I’m inspired by the question posed by the late D. James Kenney thirty years ago: What if Jesus had never been born? It's a fascinating exercise, where we unravel the threads of time and imagine how different the tapestry of history might look with just one thread missing.
- [Happy Birthday Rev. King: 95 Years Later](https://institutefc.org/happy-birthday-rev-king-95-years-later/) - As America enters a pivotal election year, faced with a decision that will determine nothing less than the future of our country, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day offers us a moment to stop and reflect on where we have come and how far we have strayed from our foundational values.
- [Us and Them: Public Theology in the Breach](https://institutefc.org/us-and-them-public-theology-in-the-breach/) - It was once taken for granted in the United States that crises and important occasions were marked by prayer. From 1789, when George Washington began the custom of setting aside days for national thanksgiving, to 1953, when Dwight Eisenhower opened his inauguration with a prayer he had written himself[1] (and there are many more examples), the country has been blessed with a rich history of its political leaders prayerfully declaring their dependance upon God.
- [How Christmas Split Time in Two While also Making Life Timeless](https://institutefc.org/how-christmas-split-time-in-two-while-also-making-life-timeless/) - We are at a crisis inflection point in our present and future. And while evil encircles us on every side and at every level, the Christmas story has the power and truth to deliver peace while also providing the shield and sword to defeat those who would destroy our families, our freedom, our nation, and all that is good.
- [Justice and Mercy Can Walk Together: Why Texas Is Right to Secure its Borders](https://institutefc.org/justice-and-mercy-can-walk-together-why-texas-is-right-to-secure-its-borders/) - With our nation’s border crisis worsening by the week, the legal tug-of-war between the Biden Administration and Texas Governor Greg Abbott once again exposes a false narrative: that citizens who support secure borders lack mercy.
- [A Country Music Devotional: God Is Great, Beer Is Good, People Are Crazy](https://institutefc.org/a-country-music-devotional-god-is-great-beer-is-good-people-are-crazy/) - My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness. (2 Cor. 12:9) Billy Currington’s song recounts a chance encounter in a bar between the narrator and an older man. The conversation that day ranged widely, covering politics, women, personal brokenness and the difficulty of transformative change, along with the reality of God’s grace in the midst of life’s messiness.
- [The Shadow of Shechem](https://institutefc.org/the-shadow-of-shechem/) - Francis Russell wrote a book about Warren G. Harding, titled The Shadow of Blooming Grove. It’s a biography of a man considered one of our worst presidents, who came from Blooming Grove, Ohio. Russell must have thought all his toil on this dreary subject was worthwhile, because of the power of a bad example.
- [Can You Worship God in the Science Lab?](https://institutefc.org/can-you-worship-god-in-the-science-lab/) - For many Christians today there is a divide between religion and science. We hold that God created and sustains everything, that miracles occur, and that the unseen supernatural world exists. "Science" stands for naturalistic views that the universe came from the big bang, life arose from non-life, and all that exists is only what we can detect with our human senses or specialized sensors. These two views appear to be in complete opposition to one another, and this simplified view is what drives some Christians to mistrust science and scientists.
- [Abraham Lincoln and His Covenant with God](https://institutefc.org/abraham-lincoln-and-his-covenant-with-god/) - It was something that President Lincoln had long hoped to do. He would, if the opportunity came, free the slaves. He did not have the authority to free the slaves in the north; that would have to come later, with an act of Congress. He could, though, issue a wartime proclamation freeing slaves in the states rebelling against the Union and slaves who were in contraband camps. It was the right thing to do and he would act when the time presented itself.
- [Written by Women: 10 Books Every Christian Should Read](https://institutefc.org/written-by-women-10-books-every-christian-should-read/) - Women’s History Month is an annual observance highlighting women’s contributions to the world. Toward that end, I will make a small contribution: ten books written by women that every Christian will benefit from reading.
- [Why Easter is the Greatest Holiday of All Time](https://institutefc.org/why-easter-is-the-greatest-holiday-of-all-time/) - From the beginning of recorded history, mankind has suffered abuse, injustice, wars, and genocides. In response, people sought refuge, solace, and meaning by turning to prophets and teachers. Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, Islam, and other religions were all founded to provide people direction and meaning in an uncertain, harsh, and temporal world.
- [Andrew Klavan, Abraham's Children Believe in Jesus](https://institutefc.org/andrew-klavan-abrahams-children-believe-in-jesus/) - Andrew Klavan, in his recent attempts to defend Ben Shapiro, has inadvertently contradicted everything the New Testament says about salvation. Andrew Klavan, in his recent attempts to defend Ben Shapiro, has inadvertently contradicted everything the New Testament says about salvation.
- [Worship and the Kingdom](https://institutefc.org/worship-and-the-kingdom/) - In worship, we declare Jesus’ kingship. When we assemble with other believers, we are participating in a profoundly political gathering.
- [The Grand Designer of the Cosmos](https://institutefc.org/the-grand-designer-of-the-cosmos/) - The heavens declare the glory of God and modern science developed because men sought to understand the world God created, in hopes of understanding God's glory.
- [Kings and Beasts (Part 2) - Sin Makes Nations into Beasts](https://institutefc.org/kings-and-beasts-part-2-sin-makes-nations-into-beasts/) - Sin makes us monstrous. When sin dominates in a society, it makes nations into beasts as well. But God is taking dominion over every beast—nations included.
- [Kings and Beasts (Part 3) - The Reign of the Son of Man](https://institutefc.org/kings-and-beasts-part-3-the-reign-of-the-son-of-man/) - The kingdom of God has come and Jesus is conquering the world. The Son of Man was given dominion and David's throne the moment he ascended.
- [The Judgment Psalms and Christian Worship](https://institutefc.org/the-judgment-psalms-and-christian-worship/) - The imprecatory (cursing) psalms get a bad rap among Christians. Trevor Laurence offers answers to three myths on the judgment psalms.
- [Aligning Economics with Christianity Fosters Creativity and Prosperity](https://institutefc.org/aligning-economics-with-christianity-fosters-creativity-and-prosperity/) - Biblical principles result in free people and free markets that build stronger communities. Socialism destroys human flourishing.
- [A War of Ethics: Heaven vs. Babylon](https://institutefc.org/a-war-of-ethics-heaven-vs-babylon/) - In the Bible, Babylon came to represent rebellion against God. Babylon's ways are the ways of violence and bloodshed, but Christ calls us into his kingdom.
- [Summer Reading List for a Biblical Worldview](https://institutefc.org/summer-reading-list-for-a-biblical-worldview/) - The Institute for Faith and Culture offers this summer reading list of twelve books to help you to develop a biblical worldview in a culture of lies.
- [Daniel 7 and the End Times Theology of Jesus](https://institutefc.org/daniel-7-and-the-end-times-theology-of-jesus/) - Most Christians believe Daniel 7 refers to Jesus' return. A closer examination, however, makes clear that Jesus understood this prophecy to refer to his ascension and enthronement at in heaven.
- [Righteousness Exalts a Nation](https://institutefc.org/righteousness-exalts-a-nation/) - The scriptures are clear: nations that are committed to righteousness will be exalted by God, but those committed to sinful disobedience will suffer reproach and degradation.
- [Israel and God's People](https://institutefc.org/israel-and-gods-people/) - Dispensationalism maintains that "Israel" and "the Church" are separate. The New Testament, however, is clear that "Israel" refers to God's people—the Church.
- [Christians, Politics, and the Kingdom of God](https://institutefc.org/christians-politics-and-the-kingdom-of-god/) - The Bible is a book about politics because it's a book about God and man. God intends to establish justice in the world and we must be involved.
- [Historical Sermons and the Call to Vote in 2024 (Pt. 2)](https://institutefc.org/historical-sermons-and-the-call-to-vote-in-2024-pt-2/) - In this second historical sermon, Phillip Payson (1778) delivered "An Election Sermon" exhorting his audience to rejoice in American liberty, while taking seriously the spiritual heritage we've received.
- [Reviving the Founding (Pt 3)](https://institutefc.org/reviving-the-founding-pt-3/) - In this sermon, Anglican bishop James Madison (1795) preaches on God's providential hand in establishing America and the biblical values that Americans ought to hold dear.
- [Reflections on the Good Samaritan Ethic](https://institutefc.org/reflections-on-the-good-samaritan-ethic/) - Race activists say Daniel Penny is racist. Others say he's a hero and a good Samaritan. Let's consider how the parable of the Good Samaritan relates to this case.
- [Presidents Day and the Christian Life](https://institutefc.org/presidents-day-and-the-christian-life/) - On Presidents Day, let us pray for our leaders and thank God that he uses imperfect men to bring about the true, good, and beautiful in the world.
- [Celebrating Easter from the White House to Your House](https://institutefc.org/celebrating-easter-from-the-white-house-to-your-house/) - Easter brings hope, clarity, and purpose—uniting believers and charging us to live boldly in Christ from the White House to our everyday lives.
- [How the Great Awakening Birthed American Freedom](https://institutefc.org/how-the-great-awakening-birthed-american-freedom/) - As we celebrate its 249th anniversary, it’s vital that we remember the spiritual movement that preceded the Declaration of Independence.
- [Tracing the Biblical Roots of Modern Science](https://institutefc.org/tracing-the-biblical-roots-of-modern-science/) - Modern science has Biblical roots, and the more we explore our universe using science, the better we can understand and stand in awe of our Creator.
- [The Enduring Legacy of the Westminster Confession of Faith](https://institutefc.org/the-enduring-legacy-of-the-westminster-confession-of-faith/) - America does not need new slogans or fresh spiritual fads. It needs churches that once again know what they believe and dare to confess it.
- [Voddie Baucham: A Faithful Witness to Christ](https://institutefc.org/voddie-baucham-a-faithful-witness-to-christ/) - To honor Voddie Baucham is to continue his work, to hold fast to the Word of God, and to place Christ, and Christ alone, at the center of all things.
- [Looking Back with Gratitude, Looking Ahead with Hope](https://institutefc.org/looking-back-with-gratitude-looking-ahead-with-hope/) - As 2025 draws to a close, I want to take a moment to say thank you for being a part of our community at the Institute for Faith, Work & Economics (IFWE). Your encouragement, readership, and financial partnership have sustained our work in equipping Christians to think biblically about faith, work, and economics. We don’t
- [Is 'A Christmas Carol' a Story About Capitalism?](https://institutefc.org/is-a-christmas-carol-a-story-about-capitalism/) - Editors Note: IFWE's managing editor, Jacqueline Isaacs, recently discussed this article on the Libertarian Christian Podcast. Learn more and listen to the conversation here. This article was first published by the American Enterprise Institute's Initiative On Faith and Public Life. Reposted with permission. Charles Dickens is well known as one of the most prolific and
- [Preparing for the Wedding Supper of the Lamb](https://institutefc.org/preparing-for-the-wedding-supper-of-the-lamb/) - In the book of Revelation, we are invited to picture a breathtaking scene, a celebration beyond anything earth has ever known. The heavens resound with joy: “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns!” (Rev. 19:6, ESV). With this scene, the Bible’s dramatic narrative has reached its final chapter. The struggle with sin, Satan,
- [Christmas Reminds Us of God’s Perfect Timing](https://institutefc.org/christmas-reminds-us-of-gods-perfect-timing/) - Christmas has a way of awakening something deep within us. Every December, the world slows just enough for us to sense that there’s more to life than our hurried schedules and endless to-do lists. The lights, the carols, the smell of pine, and the warmth of family stir in us a longing we can’t quite
- [Remembering Who & With Whom We Celebrate this Christmas Season](https://institutefc.org/remembering-who-with-whom-we-celebrate-this-christmas-season/) - Panic! Perhaps you’re feeling it. The countdown is on. Holidays are quickly approaching. Family and friends are coming! There might be decorating to finish, food to prepare, tables to set, plus dusting and dog fur to vacuum. If you’re hosting at your house this year, you’re likely feeling some pressure. If a gaggle of family
- [Why You Should Use Your Annual Review to Check for Mission Drift](https://institutefc.org/why-you-should-use-your-annual-review-to-check-for-mission-drift/) - As we draw close to the end of the year, it is common for many organizations to be in the midst of reviewing their past year and preparing for what’s coming in the year ahead. This is a great opportunity to set goals and look to the future with hope, but it is also another
- [Check Out Some of Our Favorite Faith & Work Books of 2025](https://institutefc.org/check-out-some-of-our-favorite-faith-work-books-of-2025/) - Many outstanding books on faith and work topics were published in 2025, and it was an honor to feature and review many of them here at IFWE. As we begin to wrap up the year, we wanted to take a look back at some of these new books we published excerpts from or one of
- [Three Parables to Encourage Us as We Wait For Jesus’ Return](https://institutefc.org/three-parables-to-encourage-us-as-we-wait-for-jesus-return/) - In this season of Advent, our thoughts are rightly on Christmas and the first coming of our Savior—but Advent is about Easter too. We’re all familiar with the events of Easter: Jesus’ life, crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. In addition to the miracle of his conquering death, Jesus taught his disciples–and us–about his second coming and
- [Which is the Wisest Response to Climate Change?](https://institutefc.org/which-is-the-wisest-response-to-climate-change/) - What’s the wiser policy in response to manmade climate change? Mitigation (slow or stop it) or adaptation (learn to live with it)? Which better maximizes benefits while minimizing costs? Which is better for human flourishing and the planet?The 16 authors of the 2024 Amazon bestseller Climate and Energy: The Case for Realism, organized by the
- [Crafting a Peace Plan This Christmas](https://institutefc.org/crafting-a-peace-plan-this-christmas/) - The season delivers its share of suddenly. Suddenly, there’s another gift to purchase. Suddenly, your kids get sick, and the car breaks down. Suddenly, your work world spins out of control. Suddenly, the news reports that the peace accord has unraveled and drone attacks resumed. Suddenly, the hot water tank goes out, just a few
- [Business as a Force for Good & Human Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/business-as-a-force-for-good-human-flourishing/) - Every day, more than 150 million Americans engage in work. Behind those numbers are lives: fathers, mothers, veterans, immigrants. Each person is shaped by the organizations they serve. Business is the most influential discipling institution in modern life. It molds character, opens doors of opportunity and shapes culture. Yet for many leaders, especially those of
- [Jesus in the Economy of Time](https://institutefc.org/jesus-in-the-economy-of-time/) - We tend to take both work and rest to the extremes. We either see the world glorifying the constant hustle, or we see it celebrating self-indulgent laziness. But Jesus offers a radically different (and better) view of how we use our time. Here are five cultural messages about productivity and what Jesus says about your
- [When Abraham Served God a Meal](https://institutefc.org/when-abraham-served-god-a-meal/) - Imagine the scene, thousands of years ago: the desert sun was relentless when Abraham, resting at the entrance of his tent at Mamre, looked up to see three men standing before him (Gen. 18). Curious, hurried to greet them. He bowed low, as was the tradition, and urged them to rest in the shade while
- [How Can I Bring My Faith to Someone Else’s Workplace?](https://institutefc.org/how-can-i-bring-my-faith-to-someone-elses-workplace/) - A few months ago, I put in an order for a farewell plaque to give to a departing leader. I wanted to get home for dinner. I had no intention of getting into a discussion on my views on faith and work. The owner of the shop asked me if I would submit a Google
- [A Black Friday Blitzkrieg is Coming](https://institutefc.org/a-black-friday-blitzkrieg-is-coming/) - We have only to visit almost any major city in the free world today to find evidence of dramatic cultural decay on numerous fronts: malls dripping with images of sensuality and hedonism; girls from respectable, law-abiding families dropped off at school dressed like prostitutes; boys sitting beside them in class able to pull up a
- [The Bible, the Pilgrims & Our Liberty](https://institutefc.org/the-bible-the-pilgrims-our-liberty/) - As we get ready to celebrate another Thanksgiving, there's one more thing to be grateful to God for: the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the political freedoms we enjoy. What many people don't realize is the link between the Pilgrims, authors of our Thanksgiving tradition, and our nation's founding documents. And this all
- [The Price System Declares the Glory of God](https://institutefc.org/the-price-system-declares-the-glory-of-god/) - In Universal Economics, Armen Alchian and William Allen state, “Since the discouraging fiasco in the Garden of Eden, all the world has been a place conspicuous in its scarcity of resources, contributing heavily to an abundance of sorrows and sins.” The authors launch their classic textbook with this stark assessment, echoing Genesis 3’s language. A
- [A Spirituality of Investing: A Review of ‘The Good Investor’ (Part Two)](https://institutefc.org/a-spirituality-of-investing-a-review-of-the-good-investor-part-two/) - In the first part of this review, I explored how Robin C. John’s book, The Good Investor: How Your Work Can Confront Injustice, Love Your Neighbor, and Bring Healing to the World, presents a compelling theology of investing that challenges Christians to see investing as a form of work, a response to God’s call, and
- [Remembering Voddie Baucham: A Faithful Witness to Christ](https://institutefc.org/remembering-voddie-baucham-a-faithful-witness-to-christ/) - On September 25, 2025, the church lost one of its great voices. Voddie Baucham is now with the Lord. The news of his passing struck me deeply, not only because Voddie was a personal friend and ally, but because his absence leaves a void in an hour when his voice was needed most. Voddie was
- [A Spirituality of Investing: A Review of ‘The Good Investor’ (Part One)](https://institutefc.org/a-spirituality-of-investing-a-review-of-the-good-investor-part-one/) - A recent clip featuring financial expert Dave Ramsey caught my attention. In it, he tells a story about a man worth around $200 million who only invests in farmland because “that’s what he knows.” Ramsey uses this story to support one of his core investing principles: “Put money in stuff you understand and you’re comfortable
- [Three Types of Workers in the Military](https://institutefc.org/three-types-of-workers-in-the-military/) - For Veterans Day this year, I want to do something different. I will honor those who served by giving those who have not served a glimpse of the kinds of work all servicemembers do for Uncle Sam. Without giving away any military secrets, I will share something that probably all who have served in the
- ['Our Secular Vocation' Interview](https://institutefc.org/our-secular-vocation-interview/) - Editor’s Note: The conversation below is part of an interview between Dr. J. Daryl Charles, senior fellow at the Center for Religion, Culture & Democracy, and CRCD’s executive director, Dr. Jordan Ballor. The full interview can be read at the Reading Wheel Review, and it is republished in part with permission. What are we to
- [Making Your Money Work for God: A Review of ‘Stewards Not Owners’](https://institutefc.org/making-your-money-work-for-god-a-review-of-stewards-not-owners/) - Until a month ago, I believed true Christians shouldn’t seek money. I wrote about my skepticism in 2021, coming to the simple conclusion that being wealthy is justified as long as it’s shared. But the book, Stewards Not Owners: The Joy of Aligning Your Money with Your Faith, showed me there is more to it
- [A Reflection on Job Security](https://institutefc.org/a-reflection-on-job-security/) - My workplace is in the initial phases of a major top-down reorganization. There are plans in place to move organizations from our level to the higher headquarters to consolidate functions and optimize personnel resources. It has been stressful to see this much change happening. Has this ever happened to you? Have you worked for a
- [Why Are Human Beings Creative? A Review of ‘To Invent Is Divine’](https://institutefc.org/why-are-human-beings-creative-a-review-of-to-invent-is-divine/) - Why are human beings creative? This is the central question that patent expert James R. Edwards, Jr. sets out to answer in his new book, To Invent Is Divine: Creativity and Ownership. His answer is found right there in the title. Human creativity is a reflection of divine design, not a random evolutionary trait or
- [The Dignity of Work](https://institutefc.org/the-dignity-of-work/) - These are strange times. Technology progresses so quickly that it begins to feel like magic. Artificial intelligence can write basic code in fifteen minutes that would take a decent programmer all day; we can send rockets to space and drop them right back down into a tube upon their return; surgeries that once took weeks
- [Being a ‘Good’ Investor Doesn’t Mean Being Bad at Investing](https://institutefc.org/being-a-good-investor-doesnt-mean-being-bad-at-investing/) - Editor’s Note: This excerpt has been adapted with permission from the appendix of The Good Investor: How Your Work Can Confront Injustice, Love Your Neighbor, and Bring Healing to the World by Robin John. You can order the book here. One thing I love about my job is the conversations I have with people who
- [Discover What’s Sacred about Spreadsheets](https://institutefc.org/discover-whats-sacred-about-spreadsheets/) - Ever wonder, “How could there be anything spiritual or truly eternal about financial planning?” If you’ve puzzled over money’s kingdom significance, questioned God’s view of tedious ledger keeping, or pondered how desperately mundane—even unspiritual—portfolio management might seem, then you will appreciate Brandon’s story. The community inspiration-and-action endeavor, For Evansville, produced a captivating video vignette titled
- [What Do Paul’s Letters to the Corinthians Teach Us About Work?](https://institutefc.org/what-do-pauls-letters-to-the-corinthians-teach-us-about-work/) - In this article, I have collated over twenty excerpts from nearly every chapter of my book, Immanuel Labor – God’s Presence in our Profession, that highlight what the Apostle Paul teaches us about the theology of work in his two epistles to the Corinthians. I have done this with several other books of the Bible: Ecclesiastes, Psalms, Minor Prophets, John, Romans, Exodus, and 1
- [Your Work Matters & It Doesn’t, Be Glad](https://institutefc.org/your-work-matters-it-doesnt-be-glad/) - In my quiet corner, hunched between my tea mug and the Velky Česko-Anglický Slovník, I am concentrating fiercely on the demanding labor of translating seventeenth-century Czech. “Oh God, God, God! God, if you are God, have mercy on me in my misery!” (That last part was not actually me; that was the last sentence I
- [This Book Can Help Us Address the Dwindling Rate of Population Growth](https://institutefc.org/this-book-can-help-us-address-the-dwindling-rate-of-population-growth/) - Concerns that there will soon be too many people for the planet to support are not new, nor have past versions of the argument proven true. In fact, a forty-five-year-old book written by the economist Julian Simon can provide us with the encouragement we need to have families as large as we want, not as
- [Grasping the Principles of Our Father's World: A Review of ‘Mere Economics’](https://institutefc.org/grasping-the-principles-of-our-fathers-world-a-review-of-mere-economics/) - This summer, I stopped by my local farmers' market and bought a small bag of chanterelle mushrooms from a vendor who sells foraged food. He seemed knowledgeable and confident, and I trusted him. But when I got home, I paused. I had no way of knowing for sure that these mushrooms were safe to eat.
- [God Watches the Way We Work](https://institutefc.org/god-watches-the-way-we-work/) - It is our heavenly Father who provides food for birds and clothing for flowers. We, who are more valuable to him, are therefore to trust him for the necessities of life. A Weighty Decision Anxiety and fear are real. Many years ago, I was in Hungary and met a man whose demeanor impressed me greatly.
- [Go to the Ant: Capital Accumulation in Proverbs](https://institutefc.org/go-to-the-ant-capital-accumulation-in-proverbs/) - No one in the Ancient Near East exceeded King Solomon’s wisdom. The people of Israel were in awe of their king’s godly insight (1 Kgs. 3:28), and his deep understanding overwhelmed the Queen of Sheba (1 Kgs. 10:5). His reputation went well beyond the ancient world. The English word Solomonic means “marked by notable wisdom.”
- [When Vocational Calling Changes Due to Moral Failure](https://institutefc.org/when-vocational-calling-changes-due-to-moral-failure/) - I knew a good man who felt a call to vocational Christian ministry. While in college, he got his fiancée pregnant. This changed everything in the minds of his peers and in his own mind. He knew he had to find a new path to support his family. Years later, he became an airline executive.
- [Four Human Freedoms, Starting From the Inside Out](https://institutefc.org/four-human-freedoms-starting-from-the-inside-out/) - Depending on whichever accordionist is playing our emotions through the news, social media, and advertisements we consume, our personal freedoms are either expanding or collapsing. This was particularly true during the pandemic, where everything from free enterprise to mask mandates to literally where each person stood was under scrutiny. However, right now, the focus is
- [Work is More than a Paycheck](https://institutefc.org/work-is-more-than-a-paycheck/) - Laurence Van Wassenhove, a fifty-nine-year-old French woman, has been receiving a full paycheck from her employer for the last twenty years—despite having no work to do in all that time. The reports covering her story talk of this “bizarre” situation as if it would be “bliss” and a “dream come true” for many. Much of
- [How the Seven Army Values Align with Christian Values](https://institutefc.org/how-the-seven-army-values-align-with-christian-values/) - In 2020, I wrote a two-part reflection on how I have experienced God’s presence while serving as a soldier on active duty for twenty years and while working as a civilian for the past fourteen years. I shared how God developed my character and caused me to grow in spiritual maturity through opportunities like careful
- [The Relationship Between Work & Rest](https://institutefc.org/the-relationship-between-work-rest/) - In 1982, Loverboy had a hit single, “Working for the Weekend.” The premise of the song was the opposite of the biblical vision of work and something foreign to Pete Ochs. The biblical vision is that we rest in order to work rather than working in order to rest. The principle of multiplication—and profit—begins with
- [Our Christian Posture Toward Others](https://institutefc.org/our-christian-posture-toward-others/) - It is part of human development that people from every generation must come to terms with and decide what to accept from the faith traditions they inherit from previous generations. Despite their accumulated wisdom, our parents (and their parents) are not infallible. Not everything they hand down to us is worth holding on to forever.
- [How Should Christians Think About Immigration Policies?](https://institutefc.org/how-should-christians-think-about-immigration-policies/) - Christians are called to love the sojourner, while governments are ordained by God to uphold justice and order. What does this mean for immigration policy?
- [What We Need to Learn & Unlearn About Work](https://institutefc.org/what-we-need-to-learn-unlearn-about-work/) - After teaching about the theology of work for twenty years and struggling to truly convey to people the importance of what they do every day, I have found it immensely helpful to compare their work to the understanding of common and saving grace. In addition, I have discovered how important it is to share and
- [Is There a Water Cooler in a Virtual Work Environment?](https://institutefc.org/is-there-a-water-cooler-in-a-virtual-work-environment/) - One Saturday a few years ago, I got a phone call out of the blue from an old friend that I hadn’t seen for twenty years. Matt was one of the high school ministry volunteers when I was a church youth director in the mid-eighties. The radio station where he worked as a producer had
- [7 Books on Faith, Work & Economics to Check Out Before Summer is Over](https://institutefc.org/7-books-on-faith-work-economics-to-check-out-before-summer-is-over/) - Labor Day weekend is coming early this year, which means the summer is beginning to wind down. While the holiday offers many a three-day weekend off of work, it also invites us to consider the meaning and value of our work. Whether you're heading back into a busy fall schedule or simply looking for fresh
- [U.S. Debt Concerns & the Danger of Overspending](https://institutefc.org/u-s-debt-concerns-the-danger-of-overspending/) - What does personal finance guru, Dave Ramsey, have to do with the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB), which was signed into law on July 4, 2025? In a way, nothing. Regardless of what Congress and the president decide to do with the nation’s finances, Ramsey continues to preach a gospel of thrift. With his “seven
- [Leadership in Ministry is Suitable for Any Job](https://institutefc.org/leadership-in-ministry-is-suitable-for-any-job/) - Leadership is often misunderstood. We tend to hold up some caricature of a leader and then decide if we want to be that. More times than not, the answer is no. If you are reading about personality types, there seems to be one type that is more of that dominant, up-front kind of person. The
- [How Does God Lead Us to Our Calling?](https://institutefc.org/how-does-god-lead-us-to-our-calling/) - It was the fall of 2007. I still remember it clearly. I was watching The Weakest Link with my daughter and youngest son. This was the original UK version hosted by a very sarcastic woman with a wicked sense of humor. This episode was a special edition, featuring Elvis impersonators from around the world. She
- [Business & the Local Church](https://institutefc.org/business-the-local-church/) - In recent years, many churches have adopted popular business and leadership practices to make their operations more efficient. These practices have helped them develop stronger administrative structures, better leadership development habits, and they have increased the overall efficiency of their organizational structure. However, there has been a well-intended and noticeable trend that may not be
- [How Ministry Experience Fosters Critical Thinking](https://institutefc.org/how-ministry-experience-fosters-critical-thinking/) - This is what I hear from employers all of the time when I ask them about the skill of critical thinking: “We need people who, when they run into a problem, think through the issue, come up with a few solutions, and bring them back. For example, Solution A will get the job done more
- [Gift or Grift? A Christian Examination of Bitcoin](https://institutefc.org/gift-or-grift-a-christian-examination-of-bitcoin/) - As a Christian working in the Bitcoin industry, I regularly field responses from Christians trying to wrap their heads around something that, for many, seems to be much ado about nothing. Thanks to cable news and pop culture, the popular American evaluation of Bitcoin ranges somewhere between “It’s a scam,” and “It’s gambling.” Many read
- [Finding Compassion & Hope Amidst Culture’s Raucous Waves](https://institutefc.org/finding-compassion-hope-amidst-cultures-raucous-waves/) - A tumultuous cultural climate prevails across international conditions. Like ocean riptides tormented a family vacation; or forceful wind and crashing waves hampered a hoped-for, joyous time in the sea. We may feel the extra-punctuated turbulence of raucous relationships. Around the globe, we encounter political division, economic shockwaves, wars, and calloused cruelty. Amidst heinous atrocities, people
- [How to Make Your Ministry Experience Relevant in Any Job](https://institutefc.org/how-to-make-your-ministry-experience-relevant-in-any-job/) - As a career coach at a state university, I regularly have students from Christian ministries come into my office for résumé reviews and practice interviews. During these conversations, they struggle to translate their experiences at their campus ministries into transferable life skills. They often ask, “What does leading this Bible study have to do with
- [What Does the Book of Hebrews Tell Us About Living by Faith?](https://institutefc.org/what-does-the-book-of-hebrews-tell-us-about-living-by-faith/) - The world defines faith as blind, and hope is a wish upon a star. But the author of Hebrews teaches that "faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see" (11:1). We Christians place our faith in something substantive, almost tangible. Elsewhere in Hebrews, we are told our
- [Why Is Biblical Illiteracy On the Rise in a Time of Religious Liberty?](https://institutefc.org/why-is-biblical-illiteracy-on-the-rise-in-a-time-of-religious-liberty/) - Popular Christian singer-songwriter Cory Asbury is well-acquainted with theological controversy. After his song Reckless Love was released in 2017, the lyrics of the song garnered so much attention that Asbury had to explain himself, “When I use the phrase, ‘the reckless love of God’, I’m not saying that God Himself is reckless. I am, however,
- [God & His Kingdom are Coming](https://institutefc.org/god-his-kingdom-are-coming/) - According to the Bible, there is one triune God revealed in the Old and New Testaments, and it is he—not a mere man or a human government—who is the sovereign ruler with sole authority. Over the past few months, we have uncovered this overarching truth through many articles. This extensive look at the biblical materials
- [Three Leadership Lessons Learned from Work](https://institutefc.org/three-leadership-lessons-learned-from-work/) - There is no lack of information available for best leadership practices. A quick Google search of the word leadership turns up countless results, ranging from leadership personalities to think tanks and governmental offices. Leadership is the talk of the town as employees and organizations are constantly looking for new ways to remain ahead of the
- [Key Biblical Principles for Employees](https://institutefc.org/key-biblical-principles-for-employees/) - In my last post, I laid out some basic biblical guidelines for employers and employees to follow at work. Now, I will share a few additional principles that are beneficial specifically for employees. One of my favorite scriptures on work is Colossians 3:23-24, where Paul exhorts Christian employees to work in a radically transformed way:
- [John's Apocalypse & the Kingdom of God](https://institutefc.org/johns-apocalypse-the-kingdom-of-god/) - The Apostle John's account of "the revelation of Jesus Christ,” the last book in our Bible, has much to teach us about the Kingdom of God. In my previous article, we looked at its teachings about “the Lamb.” Today, we will look at the description of “the beast” that is opposed to God and his
- [Our Freedom to Work & Worship Depends on Religious Liberty Protections](https://institutefc.org/our-freedom-to-work-worship-depends-on-religious-liberty-protections/) - Christians often need economists to remind them that work, profit, and property are part of God’s created order to bring flourishing and direction to people. But sometimes economists need Christians to remind them that economic freedom, though often undervalued, does not cover the whole scope of human activity. The Religious Liberty in the States (RLS)
- [Biblical Guidelines for You & Your Boss](https://institutefc.org/biblical-guidelines-for-you-your-boss/) - In Business for the Glory of God, Wayne Grudem shares this important insight: Employer/employee relationships provide many opportunities for glorifying God. On both sides of the transaction, we can imitate God, and he will take pleasure in us when he sees us showing honesty, fairness, trustworthiness, kindness, wisdom, and skill, and keeping our word regarding
- [5 Ideas to Help You Practice Economic Wisdom](https://institutefc.org/5-ideas-to-help-you-practice-economic-wisdom/) - Earlier this summer, our friends at Common Good Magazine published an article offering “5 Ways to Practice Economic Wisdom,” with practical suggestions like saving money and supporting local businesses. This list was exciting and encouraging to me because learning to apply economic wisdom is something IFWE is working to equip Christians with every day. At
- [Working & Abiding in the Presence of God](https://institutefc.org/working-abiding-in-the-presence-of-god/) - What if we never had to work alone again? Christians are often taught to work for the glory of God, and there is no doubt this admonition is based on scripture. On more than one occasion in his letters, the Apostle Paul challenges his audience to glorify God in all their endeavors (1 Cor. 10:31,
- [How AI Can Improve Our Stewardship](https://institutefc.org/how-ai-can-improve-our-stewardship/) - In my last post, I covered the foundational biblical principles for thinking about AI. Today, I want to make a more practical point: Artificial intelligence can help Christians be better stewards in their vocations. Properly directed, AI already helps doctors catch cancers earlier, teachers tailor lessons for struggling students, and farmers grow more with less
- [The Kingdom & Revelation of Jesus Christ](https://institutefc.org/the-kingdom-revelation-of-jesus-christ/) - Previously, we discussed Jesus and the kingdom of heaven, and then the Epistles and the kingdom. In this article, we will begin to look at John's account of "the revelation of Jesus Christ," which rightfully brings to its conclusion the teaching of the Bible about "the things about the kingdom." John's Apocalyptic Prophecy Commonly spoken
- [Is AI Going to Take My Job? A Christian Response to Technological Disruption](https://institutefc.org/is-ai-going-to-take-my-job-a-christian-response-to-technological-disruption/) - I frequently hear from friends, colleagues, and fellow believers: "Is AI going to take my job?" The anxiety is real, the headlines are dramatic, and the uncertainty feels overwhelming. But as Christians, we have something unique to offer this conversation. We have a framework for understanding technological change that goes beyond fear. We have a
- [3 Beautiful Benefits in the New Book ‘Faith & Work’](https://institutefc.org/3-beautiful-benefits-in-the-new-book-faith-work/) - In our quest for effective, productive faith integration, solid resources abound. Consequently, I deeply appreciate the emergence of this fresh work, distinctly crafted for church leaders. Upon reading and contemplating Faith & Work: Galvanizing Your Church for Everyday Impact, by Missy Wallace and Lauren Gill, we discover three beautiful benefits that I’d like to explore.
- [Your Work Is an Apologetic](https://institutefc.org/your-work-is-an-apologetic/) - While it wasn’t my intention to write a series, here is what may be viewed as the third installment in a series on work as an apologetic. My previous two entries documented the stories of apologist Wesley Huff who shared the gospel on Joe Rogan’s podcast and football coach Joe Kennedy who is the namesake
- [Remembering Walter Brueggemann: Sabbath as Resistance, Saying No to the Culture of Now](https://institutefc.org/remembering-walter-brueggemann-sabbath-as-resistance-saying-no-to-the-culture-of-now/) - On June 5th, Walter Brueggemann, a theologian who has written 50+ books, passed away at the age of 92. A group of Discipling Marketplace Leaders (DML) participants just finished reading his book, Sabbath as Resistance, Saying No to the Culture of Now, the day before he died. We were reading this book in our leadership
- [Key Ways to Increase Our Awareness of God’s Presence at Work](https://institutefc.org/key-ways-to-increase-our-awareness-of-gods-presence-at-work/) - I once heard John Maxwell say we will gain a business idea we have never had when we read one Proverb each day. Scripture has much to say about calling and vocation, but one of the greatest truths scripture teaches is that God’s presence is with us in our work. It is one thing to
- [Freedom in the Pelagian West & God's Kingdom](https://institutefc.org/freedom-in-the-pelagian-west-gods-kingdom/) - We previously defined Pelagianism, and now we will explore its similarities with the modern West and establish a Christian alternative. Human Autonomy & the West There are few ideas that the modern Western world prizes quite like human autonomy, as it is seen as fundamental to human existence. This is best expressed by one of
- [Reimagining the Good Life: Reflections from Titus](https://institutefc.org/reimagining-the-good-life-reflections-from-titus/) - When you hear, “She’s living the good life!” who comes to mind? Our thoughts readily race toward a big-stage star or big-money influencer. Let’s dare to think beyond stuff, power, and fame. What about the good life that shapes someone into a tremendously empowering boss, the kind you deeply enjoy at work? How about a
- [The Kingdom & the New Testament Epistles](https://institutefc.org/the-kingdom-the-new-testament-epistles/) - We have previously noted that the apostles early on and consistently couched their preaching in kingdom terminology. The epistolary materials of the New Testament help to flesh out for us what they taught. The Apostle Paul's Theology of the Kingdom Paul's body of work is, of course, the most instructive. He consistently emphasizes the rule
- [The History & Heresy of Pelagianism](https://institutefc.org/the-history-heresy-of-pelagianism/) - Previously, in part one and part two, we explored the ancient heresy of Gnosticism and saw how it overlaps with our current Western worldview, especially in treating the inner/spiritual world as inherently good and the outer/physical world as inherently evil. In this article, we are moving on to the heresy of Pelagianism. Here in part three specifically, I will
- [Want to Feed the Multitudes? Specialize](https://institutefc.org/want-to-feed-the-multitudes-specialize/) - Scarcity constrains us, but there is a path toward greater abundance. Let’s illustrate a powerful idea with just a little arithmetic. Suppose that in a day’s time, Peter could bake ten loaves or catch four fish. Not “and.” If he bakes ten loaves, he can’t catch four fish. If he catches four fish, he can’t
- [The Importance of Running a Rigged Race](https://institutefc.org/the-importance-of-running-a-rigged-race/) - The words we use to describe our work say a lot about who we’ve become, what we expect from the world, and what the world demands from us. “Busy” might be the first word that comes to mind, as busyness has become a status symbol for self-importance and a default response to the simple greeting,
- [Work Reveals Who We Are, What We Are & What We Believe](https://institutefc.org/work-reveals-who-we-are-what-we-are-what-we-believe/) - A popular bumper sticker in my current home state of Michigan reads something like this: “A bad day of fishing beats a good day at work,” which prompts (for me at least) the question: “What if fishing is your work?” And this follow-up: “Would fishermen rather find themselves working in an office, factory, or in
- [Three Prayers To Renew the Way You Work](https://institutefc.org/three-prayers-to-renew-the-way-you-work/) - In the rush of our professional lives, we often create artificial divisions between our faith and our work. We compartmentalize Sunday worship and Monday meetings, seeing them as separate domains rather than a seamless expression of our devotion to God. Yet Scripture reveals a profound truth: work is not separate from worship but an extension
- [Being Content in the Life I’ve Been Given](https://institutefc.org/being-content-in-the-life-ive-been-given/) - “I could be the next C.S. Lewis,” I brazenly told my college professor. At the time, I was as unique as any one of my classmates, thinking the world was at my fingertips, primed to be shaped for the better by my thoughts. Lewis, as adept at philosophy as he was at fiction, was the
- [2025 Summer Reading List for the Culture-Shaping Christian](https://institutefc.org/2025-summer-reading-list-for-the-culture-shaping-christian/) - We are pleased to share our second annual summer reading list featuring books that offer valuable insight for Christians who want to shape culture.
- [Modern Gnosticism & the Christian Worldview](https://institutefc.org/modern-gnosticism-the-christian-worldview/) - In part one, we explored what Gnosticism is. Now, we will consider some ways this ancient heresy overlaps greatly with the modern Western worldview. A False Enlightenment Today, the Western worldview defines personhood and identity almost exclusively by a person’s inner being and psychology. Our bodies are thought of as mere “meat suits” for the true
- [A Call to Humble Work](https://institutefc.org/a-call-to-humble-work/) - I love the joke I heard as a child about the boy who received a medal for being humble, then had it taken away the next day because he pinned the medal on his jacket. Growing up, I knew that humility was a goal, but it was a tricky one. How do you seek it
- [Understanding Jesus' Teaching About 'The Kingdom of God'](https://institutefc.org/jesus-the-kingdom/) - In my last post, we explored what happened between the end of Israel’s monarchs in the Old Testament and the coming of their true king. Now, we can move forward to examine the records of the New Testament, which open with the announcement that "the kingdom of God/Heaven" is "near." The preaching of John the
- [Five Timely Reminders About Work & Vacation](https://institutefc.org/five-timely-reminders-about-work-vacation/) - Much of our focus here at IFWE revolves around the meaning and purpose of work. While we believe that our vocations are a gift from God, we also understand that rest is an essential ingredient to a well-balanced life and something our Creator wants us to enjoy according to his will. Over the years, many
- [Remembering Those Who Gave the Greatest Sacrifice](https://institutefc.org/remembering-those-who-gave-the-greatest-sacrifice/) - As we celebrate Memorial Day, I am proud to say that I have served in the U.S. Army, especially now. Over the past several years, I have been impressed by the actions of our military leaders at all levels on Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. This post is where I work training and educating soldiers. In
- [In the Battle of Stories, Christians Have More to Offer](https://institutefc.org/in-the-battle-of-stories-christians-have-more-to-offer/) - Secular culture is trying to win the battle of stories, but the Gospel gives Christians a better story to tell. Here's how our better story calls us to action.
- [Gnosticism, Heresy & the Western Worldview](https://institutefc.org/gnosticism-heresy-the-western-worldview/) - What if I told you that the contemporary Western worldview has much in common with Christian heresies that the church condemned nearly two thousand years ago? This may seem strange to say since the bulk of modern Western people do not have much concern or knowledge regarding Christian orthodoxy or heresy. On the other hand,
- [Christians Have Been Blessed to be a Blessing](https://institutefc.org/christians-have-been-blessed-to-be-a-blessing/) - I consider it a personal privilege to be invited to share with fellow travelers a little of my own spiritual journey. Like most of us, I’m just one person struggling to relate faith to life, but I am grateful to be asked to speak from the heart about the difference Jesus Christ has made in
- ['The Flag Still Stands for Freedom'](https://institutefc.org/the-flag-still-stands-for-freedom/) - Discover the enduring meaning of the American flag and its roots in faith, freedom, and the founding principles of our nation.
- [Your Creativity & The Trinity](https://institutefc.org/your-creativity-the-trinity/) - Everyone’s job requires creativity, but we often take it for granted. Entrepreneurs need it to start companies, solve problems, and find audiences for their products. Scientists need creativity to imagine new theories and models. Lawyers require creativity to solve cases and consider new approaches that will help their clients. We need creativity in our vocations.
- [Embracing Personal Accountability & Living a Life of Purpose](https://institutefc.org/embracing-personal-accountability-living-a-life-of-purpose/) - God, faith and the power of prayer are truly remarkable. My unwavering relationship with our Heavenly Father has kept me going during my lowest of lows, and has emboldened my hope of brighter days ahead. The story of my family perfectly captures the essence of how powerful the presence of God, hope, and a strong
- [From Israel's Monarchy to the True King](https://institutefc.org/from-israels-monarchy-to-the-true-king/) - Israel demanded a king, but their royal rulers diminished after only four generations, as we read in my last post. After Solomon's son Rehoboam, Israel was snatched up by the Assyrians and Babylonians. What happened between the end of Israel's monarchs and the coming of their true king? The Psalms Point to the Shepherd The
- [Why Isn’t There a Greek or Latin Term for ‘Theology of Work’?](https://institutefc.org/why-isnt-there-a-greek-or-latin-term-for-theology-of-work/) - When working on a writing project recently, I found myself typing “theology of work” and “faith and work movement” many times. This made me wonder why we don’t have an easier shorthand phrase for this increasingly common area of focus. When a concept is used frequently in theological conversations, scholars will usually give it a
- [Graduation Is a Beginning, Not an Ending](https://institutefc.org/graduation-is-a-beginning-not-an-ending/) - Graduation season is a wonderful time of year when family and friends gather to celebrate the academic accomplishments of their loved ones. Because I work at a university, I have a particular fondness for this season. In a matter of days, I will be celebrating the accomplishments of students who are graduating. Because we are
- [How Do We Care for Our Teammates at Work?](https://institutefc.org/how-do-we-care-for-our-teammates-at-work/) - I posted this short note on social media before the holidays, after an extended conversation with a U.S. Army noncommissioned officer with whom I coordinate on occasion: I was reminded twice this week that we don’t need to say we care. We just need to show it. When you ask people how they are doing,
- [Millennials, Entitlement & the Christian Vision of Calling](https://institutefc.org/millennials-entitlement-the-christian-vision-of-calling/) - Several years ago, The Huffington Post’s blog “Wait But Why” created “Lucy,” an imagined embodiment of today’s adult. Lucy is what the article calls a GYPSY, short for Generation Y Protagonists and Special Yuppies. Lucy is destined to be unhappy. From their earliest years, GYPSYs like Lucy, born from the late 1970s to the mid-1990s,
- [The Failure of Israel's Monarchy](https://institutefc.org/the-failure-of-israels-monarchy/) - The people of Israel’s first experiment with a king did not go very well, as we saw in my last post. The first king, Saul, put himself above God’s rule and the claim to the throne was taken away from him and his lineage and transferred to another. The second king, David, exemplified the limitation
- [Work As a Context for Heart Change & City Impact](https://institutefc.org/work-as-a-context-for-heart-change-city-impact/) - Since the average worker spends a minimum of 40 percent of their waking hours in some type of work, it is important to explore its meaning to those in your church. In a worldwide survey of more than 150 countries entitled “The World Poll,” analytics and advisory company Gallup uncovered what they describe as one
- [Easter & the Great Celebration](https://institutefc.org/easter-the-great-celebration/) - Easter is a big deal. That much is clear, known to everybody in our purview—secular neighbors, mainstream media, national retailers, and more. However, what is unclear to many secular people is what Easter truly means. To understand Easter, let’s look at the first time it was ever preached. It was during Pentecost, a Jewish feast
- [What Coach Joe Kennedy’s Story Teaches About Courage at Work](https://institutefc.org/what-coach-joe-kennedys-story-teaches-about-courage-at-work/) - Coach Joe Kennedy never set out to make headlines. He wasn’t trying to launch a national conversation or become the face of a major legal battle over religious liberty. He simply wanted to live out his Christian faith and not have to leave it at the door when he went to work as a high
- [Melvillian Meditations on Manhood](https://institutefc.org/melvillian-meditations-on-manhood/) - Explore how Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick offers profound insights into biblical manhood, calling modern men to courage, conviction, and Christ-centered purpose.
- [How Should We Tailor Our Prayers in the Later Stages of Our Career?](https://institutefc.org/how-should-we-tailor-our-prayers-in-the-later-stages-of-our-career/) - Last week, I discussed how important it is for Christians to pray during each phase of their careers. Prayer, as a spiritual discipline, is just as important to practice in the later phases as well as the early ones. In today's article, I will explore specific prayers that are helpful during job/career transitions and when
- [What Does Christ’s Finished Work Mean for Our Everyday Work?](https://institutefc.org/what-does-christs-finished-work-mean-for-our-everyday-work/) - After five tedious hours of sanding and three coats of poly-finish, the vintage-1920s, solid oak chair was restored. I laid my brush atop the can of urethane and stepped back to inspect it. With a satisfied grin and a nod to the chair, I said affirmatively, “this project is now finished.” It was the culmination
- [What's Missing in the Calling Conversation?](https://institutefc.org/whats-missing-in-the-calling-conversation/) - Calling can certainly be a loaded word. Perhaps others have used the term calling well, to explain what compels them. Or, it’s been used poorly, selfishly, as an excuse not to show up for others, or even as a form of manipulation to get those who feel called to work more for less (less pay,
- [How Should We Tailor Our Prayers in Each Phase of Our Career?](https://institutefc.org/how-should-we-tailor-our-prayers-in-each-phase-of-our-career/) - Do you pray about your work? I know I do, every day. As we go forward in 2025, let me reflect on prayer a bit. As part of his closing exhortations in his first epistle to the church in Thessalonica, the Apostle Paul tells them to “pray continually” (1 Thes. 5:17, NIV). Other translations give
- [Israel's Demand for a King](https://institutefc.org/israels-demand-for-a-king/) - After a tumultuous period in Israel’s history, when they were freed from Egypt and wandered in the desert, they settled into the promised land under the theocratic rule of God administered by various judges. We examined this period in my previous post. The people of Israel were not happy with this arrangement, however, and asked
- [The Mirage of Independence](https://institutefc.org/the-mirage-of-independence/) - At my job, I assist people with disabilities in achieving independence. Together, we develop ways for them to complete daily routines, manage money, explore careers, and make friends. We call these “independent living skills.” But the people I serve will never be fully independent. Not because of their disability, but because of their humanity. That’s
- [What Is Truth? Transforming How We Share 'Truth' with Others](https://institutefc.org/what-is-truth-transforming-how-we-share-truth-with-others/) - What is truth? This deceptively simple question has puzzled humanity since the beginning. Pilate famously asked this very question of Jesus before the crowd just prior to the crucifixion (Jn. 18:38 ESV). In every culture, across every age, people have sought to understand what it means for something to be true. In our modern world,
- [What To Do When You Are Passed Over](https://institutefc.org/what-to-do-when-you-are-passed-over/) - “Sorry, but I don’t have a place for you in this leadership team.” I ended the call as professionally as I could, but waves of emotion swept through me in the minutes afterward. This was my fourth attempt to get a position at the next level in our company. I was angry that the position
- [The Three Callings of Every Christian](https://institutefc.org/the-three-callings-of-every-christian/) - If you’re a Christian, you don’t have a "calling,” you have three. Two of the three are fundamental and universal—that is, they aren’t optional and they aren’t individual, but they are by far the most important callings in your life. The good news (and hard news, actually) is they each come with a community who
- [How Can Older Workers Learn New Tricks?](https://institutefc.org/how-can-older-workers-learn-new-tricks/) - Last fall, I had a conversation with a well-respected senior leader who was about to depart for a new assignment. He had some personal words of appreciation for what he had seen me do while we served together over the course of two years. He was grateful for my ability to provide continuity in our
- [The Long Journey from Pharaoh to a King for Israel](https://institutefc.org/the-long-journey-from-pharaoh-to-a-king-for-israel/) - We recently looked at what the book of Genesis tells us about the nature of man and government. We ended that discussion with Abraham and his family relying on God’s judgment and justice. However, Egypt looms large in the last chapters of Genesis as both savior and potential tyrant. Israel Under the Authority of Egypt
- [What is Sacred Work?](https://institutefc.org/what-is-sacred-work/) - What exactly does “sacred” work consist of? I suspect it is broader than most believers think it is. You may have heard the phrase “the sacred and secular divide.” This concept has been around, unfortunately, for probably thousands of years. It puts human vocations into two categories – sacred or secular. The sacred jobs are
- [Author Interview on the Story & Impact of Saint Patrick](https://institutefc.org/author-interview-on-the-story-impact-of-saint-patrick/) - To the extent that most people think about St. Patrick’s Day and its imagery, it’s about leprechauns, the color green, maybe a party or two, and perhaps a brief mention of the Irish saint the holiday is named for. But the story of Saint Patrick is one of deep faith, unimaginable forgiveness, and a profound
- [Finding Meaning & Resilience in Difficult Seasons: A Review of ‘When Work Hurts’](https://institutefc.org/finding-meaning-resilience-in-difficult-seasons-a-review-of-when-work-hurts/) - When I was 21 years old, I was laid off from my research job at a think tank. It was my first “real” job, and I loved the issues I worked on and the people I worked with. To make things worse, I had just begun my 3-year MBA program and while this job didn’t
- [Bridging the Sacred-Secular Divide: The Need for Theological Education Reform](https://institutefc.org/bridging-the-sacred-secular-divide-the-need-for-theological-education-reform/) - As is typical, the first part of a new year is spent reflecting on the past year. For my organization, Discipling Marketplace Leaders (DML), it means collecting all the data of the activities that we have engaged in and seeing both what went well and what was a challenge. We continue to be very busy,
- [What Does Genesis Tell Us About the Nature of Man & Government?](https://institutefc.org/what-does-genesis-tell-us-about-the-nature-of-man-government/) - There can be no denying that the fundamental truth about government in the Bible’s worldview is that the one triune God revealed in the Old and New Testaments is the sovereign ruler from which all authority flows (Rom. 13:1-7). Whatever man and human governments are, they are not to be confused with god(s), although they
- [Let’s Reimagine Lent](https://institutefc.org/lets-reimagine-lent/) - Anticipating springtime, we draw near a wondrous season of sacred reflection and celebration. We remember Christ’s suffering, his sacrifice on the cross, and his triumph over sin and grave. Across the centuries, Christ-followers have encountered deep meaning through the observance of Lent. Although I grew up in a devoted Christian home, my family’s branch of
- [Working in the New Jerusalem](https://institutefc.org/working-in-the-new-jerusalem/) - Editor's note: Excerpt taken from When Work Hurts by Meryl Herr. Copyright (c) 2025 by Meryl Ashley Cantley Herr. Used by permission of InterVarsity Press. www.ivpress.com The state of Michigan has 129 lighthouses. Some sit atop a rocky coast or back from the water’s edge. Others rest on piers or jetties that jut out from
- [Building Up Your Team by Showing Dignity & Respect](https://institutefc.org/building-up-your-team-by-showing-dignity-respect/) - On the way to work one morning a few years ago, I heard Dave Willis, a guest on the Focus on the Family Broadcast, talk about bringing up his sons with Christian values. He shared a memorable incident where his own son had said something negative to the only girl on his Little League baseball
- [Four Reminders of Biblical Truths from Recent College Grads](https://institutefc.org/four-reminders-of-biblical-truths-from-recent-college-grads/) - There are seasons in life when we need fresh reminders of things we already know but haven’t fully contemplated in a while. This is particularly true when it comes to the biblical truths of work that we value at IFWE. In the midst of our daily routines—especially during seasons of stress or monotony—it’s easy to
- [Cultural Change Requires More Than Politics](https://institutefc.org/cultural-change-requires-more-than-politics/) - Political change is part of transforming culture, but politics alone is insufficient. Christians must lead in music, architecture, cinema, media, economics, education, and other vital areas of culture too.
- [Incredible Innovations That Combat Poverty](https://institutefc.org/incredible-innovations-that-combat-poverty/) - I remember the first time I saw real poverty. It was the early 1970s, so I would have been seven or eight years old. Flipping through a copy of National Geographic magazine, I found a heartbreaking photo. It showed a malnourished African boy, about my own age, with flies on his face and a distended
- [Human Reason, Religious Freedom & the Image of God](https://institutefc.org/human-reason-religious-freedom-the-image-of-god/) - For the Christian, every question of human ethics begins in one way or another with the character of God before flowing inevitably to the beliefs and behaviors of humanity which has been made in the image of God. What we believe concerning God necessarily forms our understanding of the duties he requires of us. The
- [Remembering Jesus in Your Work](https://institutefc.org/remembering-jesus-in-your-work/) - Work can be hard, it can be boring, it can seem pointless. However, when it is seen as a calling, work has purpose, and God’s power and grace saturate our lives as we do it. The Problem with Our Work If work is so good, as it’s defined by God in Genesis 2, why is
- [Appreciating the God-Given Gift of Work](https://institutefc.org/appreciating-the-god-given-gift-of-work/) - For the past several decades, I have met many in the marketplace who are suffering from an identity crisis yielding genuine frustration. When work and career have not gone as expected, despondency and depression have often followed. Coming from a Christian worldview, my understanding of identity has long been grounded and rooted in knowing that
- [Seven Quotes About Love for Valentine’s Day](https://institutefc.org/seven-quotes-about-love-for-valentines-day/) - Traditionally, Valentine’s Day is marketed as a day to celebrate romantic love, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to consider love for our coworkers, families, and communities. We wanted to look back at some of the great articles our blog contributors have written about love. We hope these quotes encourage, inspire, and remind you of
- [Should You Retire or Not? Try Asking a Different Question](https://institutefc.org/should-you-retire-or-not-try-asking-a-different-question/) - Many of my peers have gone into retirement. Some of them were more than ready, others felt like it was time, and a few didn’t have a choice. They are all vibrant people who will make the most of their time and energy, whether or not they have a job. I bumped into an article
- [God’s Presence in the Life of Daniel](https://institutefc.org/gods-presence-in-the-life-of-daniel/) - I have written previously about Joseph, Moses, Gideon, and others who best illustrate the biblical connection between God’s presence and human work that I call Immanuel labor. However, I have never discussed Daniel. He and I have something in common. Like me, this man of faith served in a critical position on the staff of a senior government official.
- [The Church's Responsibility to Help the Hurting Here at Home](https://institutefc.org/the-churchs-responsibility-to-help-the-hurting-here-at-home/) - According to recent data, approximately $74.5 billion is donated to the American church annually, yet America is still plagued with homelessness, poverty, poor education systems, inadequate health care, and more. People often complain about the government’s misallocation of money (particularly regarding entitlements), but there seems to be a double standard in play here. Nearly half
- [All Your Enemies: How to Win Battles with Faith-Filled Confidence](https://institutefc.org/all-your-enemies-how-to-win-battles-with-faith-filled-confidence/) - Why does stepping into a new calendar year feel so challenging? Overwhelming even? Make no mistake in your musings to answer. There are no bones about what your biggest obstacle is. You have enemies. We all have enemies. I certainly have my share. Some enemies might indeed be literal, physical, potentially hateful, and harmful people.
- [Seven Faith & Work Books Worth Your Time](https://institutefc.org/seven-faith-work-books-worth-your-time/) - Our friend and IFWE contributor, Dr. Stephen Presley, recently highlighted five helpful books for pastors. I wanted to contribute my own list of recommendations for our readers who may be in different life stations to expand your thinking about faith, work, and economics. Each of these are books I read recently, although not all were
- [How to Prevent the Next Generation's Loss of Faith & Knowledge](https://institutefc.org/how-to-prevent-the-next-generations-loss-of-faith-knowledge/) - One of our great leadership challenges is to always be presenting God and his work to the people in our sphere of influence. There is a sad, sobering account in Judges 2:7-12 (ESV) about the loss of knowledge and faith in a single generation: And the people served the Lord all the days of Joshua,
- [Five Books from 2024 Every Pastor Should Read](https://institutefc.org/five-books-from-2024-every-pastor-should-read/) - 2024 was a great year for books, particularly those that help Christians think deeply about ministry in this cultural moment. In 2023, I reflected on some outstanding books for pastors and attempted to narrow down the best of the year for those engaged in ministry. In 2024, however, it was difficult to choose just five
- [National Prayer Service Falls Prey To Progressive Politics](https://institutefc.org/national-prayer-service-falls-prey-to-progressive-politics/) - In what should have been a moment of national unity and spiritual reflection, the National Prayer Service devolved into a progressive lecture aimed at President Trump.
- [Hitting the Bullseye May Take Awhile](https://institutefc.org/hitting-the-bullseye-may-take-awhile/) - If you hit the bullseye on this Ven diagram, you earn a living doing what the world needs, what you’re good at, and what you love to do. You are fortunate. Some of us have gotten close, having passion but no income producing profession to go along with it, or a mission that is difficult
- [How To Press on After an Unsuccessful Season of Job Seeking](https://institutefc.org/how-to-press-on-after-an-unsuccessful-season-of-job-seeking/) - He got the news on a Friday morning. He was notified via email that he was not selected for the position he had been really hoping to get. This was the fifth job he had applied for at this location in two years. He thought he was well-qualified for all of these jobs, but he
- [Be Content Where God Has Placed You](https://institutefc.org/be-content-where-god-has-placed-you/) - I know of many people who are so committed to living out God’s specific will for their lives that it hinders them. They have their dream jobs in mind, and they are convinced that because God gave them those desires, that’s where they are supposed to be. As a result, they consider the jobs they
- [The Faith & Work Experience with Joe Rogan](https://institutefc.org/the-faith-work-experience-with-joe-rogan/) - No one would have predicted that one of the biggest stories to kick off 2025 would be that Joe Rogan’s wildly popular podcast would host what some are calling the largest gospel presentation since the days of Billy Graham. As the saying goes, that wasn’t on my bingo card. Rogan, a comedian and cultural commentator
- [A Reflection on Christianity and the Presidential Inauguration](https://institutefc.org/a-reflection-on-christianity-and-the-presidential-inauguration/) - George Washington established a precedent of religious expression at his inauguration that has lasted for centuries.
- [Unleashing Business Leaders in the Church](https://institutefc.org/unleashing-business-leaders-in-the-church/) - One of the most beautiful characteristics of the church is its diversity, and this diversity includes unique skill sets within local congregations. Special Gifts Within the Body of Christ Paul reminds his audiences in Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12 that each person in the body of Christ has gifts to contribute, and every Christian
- [Are You in a Winter Season?](https://institutefc.org/in-a-winter-season/) - My wife Kristin and I are members of a large garden near our home in Northern Virginia. We enjoy seeing its transformation through the seasons. In spring, the garden is resplendent as tulips, daffodils, and other flowers appear, and delicate cherry blossoms bloom. In summer, it is lush and verdant, offering sustenance to Monarch butterflies,
- [IFWE's Top Ten Blogs for 2024](https://institutefc.org/ifwes-top-ten-blogs-for-2024/) - Happy New Year! As we launch into 2025, we want to briefly look back at the important news, events, and themes that made 2024 a year to remember. First, let us begin with gratitude. Over the years, we have had much to be thankful for at IFWE. One of the things we have appreciated most
- [What If Jesus Had Never Been Born?](https://institutefc.org/what-if-jesus-had-never-been-born-2/) - Editor’s Note: You can help IFWE to equip believers to impact culture and contribute to a flourishing society. Read more about IFWE's vision for 2025 and how you can support our mission. This holiday season, with Christians reflecting on the significance of Jesus’ birth, I’m inspired by the question posed by the late D. James
- [How To Understand Our Vocations As Culture Makers](https://institutefc.org/how-to-understand-our-vocations-as-culture-makers/) - As Christians, we know that we are fearfully and wonderfully made in God’s image, with a specific vocation for which we have been equipped with unique talents and desires. But for most of us, it can be difficult to feel like our work matters to God. How can we know that our work is bringing
- [Ever Singing, March We Onward](https://institutefc.org/ever-singing-march-we-onward/) - This is the fourth article in a series that has discussed the four stanzas of the Christmas hymn, “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee.” In the first article, Jacqueline Isaacs beautifully tied her experience of adopting a son one year ago with our adoption as children of God when we accept Jesus as Savior and Lord.
- [Christmas with the Presidents](https://institutefc.org/christmas-with-the-presidents/) - The Christmas season captivates the heart and mind. In this post we explore what many US presidents have said about the importance of Christmas and our Savior who was born.
- [Bubbling & Joyous Blessings](https://institutefc.org/bubbling-joyous-blessings/) - Grandma and Grandpa’s house during the holidays was wonder-filled. Thanksgiving overflowed with stuffing, pies, and football. In the 1970s and 80s, their Christmas tree was extra-packed with eclectic, heirloom ornaments and generous giving. Grandpa’s train choo-choo-ed beneath the heavy, low-hanging branches. Cousins, aunts, uncles, and numerous other kin gathered around the table. My grandparents’ rancher
- [Busyness, the Thief Who Steals Our Joy](https://institutefc.org/busyness-the-thief-who-steals-our-joy/) - Fighting for joy in the midst of a busy schedule is sometimes difficult even for strong, mature Christians. As a young professional in Washington, D.C., I have experienced and struggled with some of the pitfalls surrounding busyness. In a city and society that views busyness as a badge of honor, these struggles are inevitable, but

## Pages

- [Home](https://institutefc.org/) - 2026 MINISTRY YEAR END REPORT A year of equipping the Church. Equipping Christians to be salt and light in their spheres of influence. Read the Report God’s Design City of God Kingdom Come Read the Report Latest Articles VIEW ALL Work & Economics VIEW MORE LATEST EPISODE Current Events VIEW MORE Politics VIEW MORE Follow
- [2026 Ministry Year Highlights](https://institutefc.org/2026-ministry-year-highlights/) - Ministry Year Highlights 2025–2026 A year of equippingthe Church Equipping Christians to be salt and light in their spheres of influence. Give to the Institute → / 01 God’s Design Animated Series / 02 City of God Podcast / 03 Kingdom Come Conference The figures. Total views/ 01 million Across digital and social platforms —
- [About](https://institutefc.org/about/) - INSTITUTE FOR FAITH & CULTURE About Equipping Christians for this cultural moment to be salt and light in their sphere of influence. OUR MISSION Bringing the Mind of Christ to an Upside-Down World The Institute for Faith & Culture exists to equip Christians for this cultural moment to be salt and light in their sphere of
- [Subscribe](https://institutefc.org/subscribe/) - STAY CONNECTED Join the Conversation onFaith & Culture Receive thoughtful articles, event announcements, and resources from theInstitute for Faith & Culture — delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe to IFC Choose what you’d like to receive. You can update your preferences at any time. Subscribe Form First NameLast NameEmail Which publications would you like to
- [IFC-IFWE](https://institutefc.org/ifc-ifwe/) - AN EXCITING NEW CHAPTER United for a Greater Mission Two organizations. One shared conviction. A stronger mission to equip Christians to live faithfully in every area of life. INSTITUTE FOR FAITH & CULTURE + INSTITUTE FOR FAITH, WORK, & ECONOMICS ABOUT THIS MERGER The Institute for Faith & Culture (IFC) and the Institute for Faith,
- [Kingdom Come Conference](https://institutefc.org/kcc-old/) - THE CHRISTIAN CITIZEN MARCH 27-29, 2026FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA CLICK TO REGISTER CLICK TO REGISTER “So many other Christian conferences are oblivious to the reality of the culture we are living in today. I leave Kingdom Come each year equipped, encouraged, and filled with the hope of the Gospel.” – Rosaria ButterfieldKingdom Come Speaker TITLE SPONSOR:
- [The Executive Roundtable](https://institutefc.org/roundtable/) - Join a growing network of executives committed to faith-driven leadership The Executive Roundtable, a global initiative under the Institute for Faith and Culture, is dedicated to equipping Christian business leaders with faith-based programming to empower them for this cultural moment. This program is designed in response to the urgent need for Christian leaders to shape
- [Why Coral Ridge](https://institutefc.org/why-coral-ridge/) - WHY Coral Ridge Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church has a rich history of establishing strong institutions that engage culture with the Gospel in ways that lead to genuine results in our community and the world. Founded in 1959, Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church launched a Gospel movement under the leadership of Dr. D. James Kennedy in the
- [Why South Florida](https://institutefc.org/why-south-florida/) - WHY South Florida A GLOBAL INFLUENCE The Church must recapture its commitment to transforming culture, remembering Christ’s promise in Revelation 21 to make all things new. The Institute of Faith and Culture humbly accepts the call to be an agent of renewal in South Florida and through it, the world. The Institute of Faith and
- [Work and Economics](https://institutefc.org/work-and-economics/) - Work & Economics LATEST EPISODE Research Papers VIEW ALL Latest Articles VIEW ALL
- [Give Now](https://institutefc.org/give-now/) - Give Now Facebook-f Instagram Youtube This work is not possible without you. The Institute for Faith and Culture is nonprofit and relies on donations to fund its efforts. As we give witness to timeless truths and contend for the future of our nation, our communities, and our families, we are asking for your help. Will
- [Politics](https://institutefc.org/politics/) - Politics LATEST EPISODE Latest Articles VIEW ALL Faith&The Public Square GET INVOLVED Latest Articles VIEW ALL
- [Bible and Theology](https://institutefc.org/bible-and-theology/) - Bible & Theology LATEST EPISODE Latest Articles VIEW ALL THE STORY OF God’s Design Watch the series Latest Articles VIEW ALL
- [Faith and the Public Square](https://institutefc.org/faith-and-the-public-square/) - Faith & the Public Square A Biblical perspective on government, culture, and Christian citizenship Featured Content Take Action Register to Vote Voter Guides Voting Biblically Pray for the Nation Get Involved LAUREN COOLEYVP OF CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
- [Christian Living](https://institutefc.org/christian-living/) - Christian Living LATEST EPISODE Latest Articles VIEW ALL Latest Articles VIEW ALL
- [Current Events](https://institutefc.org/current-events/) - Current Events LATEST EPISODE Latest Articles VIEW ALL Latest Articles VIEW ALL
- [Mission, Vision, and Values](https://institutefc.org/about/mission-vision-values/) - ABOUT MISSION Equipping Christians for this cultural moment through: Worldview TrainingLeadership Development Resources vision Advancing the Kingdom of God, on Earth as it is in Heaven. ABOUT Mission Equipping Christians for this cultural moment through: Worldview Training Leadership Development Resources Connecting Believers Vision Advancing the Kingdom of God, on Earth as it is in Heaven.
- [God's Design - Gender Roles](https://institutefc.org/gods-design/gender-roles/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8HqbnnmwgQohttps%3A%2F%2Finstitutefc.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F08%2FCoralRidge_GenderRoles_15633v8_Final_Epipheo.mp4 GENDER ROLES This video teaches kids that God created men and women in His image (Genesis 1:27), equally valuable but uniquely different. Using a wrench and bolt analogy, it shows how their complementary strengths reflect God’s love and build strong families and communities. Children learn that these differences are part of God’s “very good”
- [God's Design - Humanity](https://institutefc.org/gods-design/humanity/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaeLsu0IyUYhttps%3A%2F%2Finstitutefc.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F08%2FCoralRidge_PurposeOfHumanity_15633v7_Final_Epipheo.mp4 HUMANITY Why are we here? This video explores one of life’s biggest questions by looking back to God’s original design. Kids will learn that humans were made in God’s image, with a clear purpose: to reflect Him, represent Him, and bring His goodness into the world. We’re not just here to sit around—we’re part
- [God's Design - Government](https://institutefc.org/gods-design/government/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDmjz0rIGRshttps%3A%2F%2Finstitutefc.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F08%2FCoralRidge_Government_15633v6_Final_Epipheo.mp4 GOVERNMENT Is God in charge, or is the government? This video explains that while God is the ultimate authority, He has given governments the job of promoting good and resisting evil. Children learn that the Bible teaches us to obey and participate in government—unless it asks us to disobey God. It’s a thoughtful and
- [God's Design - The Church](https://institutefc.org/gods-design/church/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b21KWLM8hVMhttps%3A%2F%2Finstitutefc.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F08%2FCoralRidge_TheChurch_15633v5_Final_Epipheo.mp4 THE CHURCH This video shows that the Church isn’t just a building. The Church is people! Children are taught that the Church exists to carry out Jesus’ mission: to make disciples, teach truth, and bless the world. God invites each of us to be part of this big, exciting mission, and He gives us
- [God's Design - Creation](https://institutefc.org/gods-design/creation/) - https://youtu.be/1AhP3GFcYMshttps://institutefc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CoralRidge_Creation_15633v4_Final_Epipheo.mp4 CREATION This video helps kids understand that the world around them (including themselves) is not an accident. It introduces God as the Creator who brings order and beauty from chaos. Children are invited to see their value and purpose in the fact that God intentionally made them, and that His creation (including them) is
- [God's Design - Marriage](https://institutefc.org/gods-design/marriage/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FL-oyx7hSIhttps%3A%2F%2Finstitutefc.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F08%2FCoralRidge_Marriage_15633v3_Final_Epipheo.mp4 MARRIAGE This video explains marriage as a unique, lifelong relationship between one man and one woman. It highlights how marriage helps people grow together in love and support, and how it reflects God’s love for His people. Children are encouraged to see marriage not just as a partnership, but as a living picture of
- [God's Design - Work](https://institutefc.org/gods-design/work/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53QMMV2ZK70https%3A%2F%2Finstitutefc.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F08%2FCoralRidge_Work_15633v2_Final_Epipheo_navyBlueIntroOutro.mp4 WORK In this video, children learn that work is part of God’s good design. Even though it can feel boring or hard sometimes, we were created to work, create, and bring order and beauty into the world, just as God did. The video reminds children that even play and building things can reflect God’s
- [God's Design - Gender](https://institutefc.org/gods-design/gender/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9oMsYI6DTEhttps%3A%2F%2Finstitutefc.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F08%2FCoralRidge_Gender_15633v1_Final_Epipheo__-navyBlueIntroOutro.mp4 GENDER Why are we here? This video explores one of life’s biggest questions by looking back to God’s original design. Kids will learn that humans were made in God’s image, with a clear purpose: to reflect Him, represent Him, and bring His goodness into the world. We’re not just here to sit around—we’re part
- [God's Design](https://institutefc.org/gods-design/) - The Story of God’s Design Watch the First Episode A Trusted Resource God’s Design is an eight-part video series created to help families talk about some of the most important questions kids are facing today. Rooted in God’s Word, these short videos are a trusted resource you can rely on as you guide your children.
- [Shows](https://institutefc.org/shows/) - Podcasts Video Series
- [Journal](https://institutefc.org/journal/) - Latest Articles VIEW ALL Work & Economics VIEW ALL LATEST EPISODE Bible & Theology VIEW ALL Politics VIEW ALL Follow Us Facebook X-twitter Youtube Instagram Subscribe for Updates Upcoming Events New Publications
- [Donate Test](https://institutefc.org/donate-test/) - Add Your Heading Text Here Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. Give
- [Resources](https://institutefc.org/resources/) - Three Ways to Be Kind to Our Coworkers this Thanksgiving Dr. Joshua Nangle We can be kind because God was first kind to us, and for this we should be thankful! In our sorrow-filled world, let’s share God’s kindness with our coworkers. Read More KINGDOM COME CONFERENCE Rob Pacienza As we approach the inauguration of
- [Videos](https://institutefc.org/videos/) - INSITUTE Video Archive
- [The Daniel Society](https://institutefc.org/danielsociety/)
- [Faith & Work Resources](https://institutefc.org/faith-work/) - Join a growing network of executives committed to faith-driven leadership The Executive Roundtable, a global initiative under the Institute of Faith and Culture, is dedicated to equipping Christian business leaders with faith-based programming to empower them for this cultural moment. This program is designed in response to the urgent need for Christian leaders to shape
- [Staff & Advisory](https://institutefc.org/about/staff-advisory/) - INSTITUTE leadership Staff Dr. Rob Pacienza Founder, President Andrew Nichols Vice President of Operations Lauren Cooley Vice President of Public Affairs Dr. Chris Leader Director Of Engagement Advisors
- [How Firm a Foundation](https://institutefc.org/how-firm-a-foundation/) - available now HOW FIRMA FOUNDATION In a world of shifting values and competing worldviews, how can Christians develop a faith that remains steady through life’s storms? ORDER NOW Read Free Sample Rob Pacienza’s How Firm a Foundation is bold, urgent, and pastoral. This book is a roadmap for living with courageous faith in an age
- [Lessons](https://institutefc.org/lessons/) - lessons at THE DIANE BISH center for music and the arts PURPOSEWHY WE EXIST The Diane Bish Center for Music and the Arts will be a center for training and further education in a wide range of performing and fine arts, striving for excellence in all areas for God’s glory. “Let everything that has breath
- [National Essay Contest](https://institutefc.org/national-essay-contest/) - Are you ready to share your voice and engage with today’s most pressing cultural and philosophical challenges through the lens of a biblical worldview? The Institute for Faith & Culture invites you to participate in our Annual Student Essay Contest, an exciting opportunity to reflect on a variety of culturally relevant topics. This contest challenges young
- [KINGDOM COME 2026](https://institutefc.org/kcc2026/) - MARCH 27-29, 2026FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA CLICK TO REGISTER CLICK TO REGISTER JOIN USKINGDOM COME 2026 Tickets are now on sale for our 2026 Kingdom Come Conference! We will welcome Voddie Baucham, Lucas Miles, Aaron Renn, David Bahnsen, Os Guinness, and Natasha Crain. Additional speakers to be announced! Join us March 27-29 at Coral Ridge Presbyterian
- [Center for Music and the Arts](https://institutefc.org/music/) - THE DIANE BISH CENTER FORMUSIC & THE ARTS PURPOSEWHY WE EXIST The Diane Bish Center for Music and the Arts will be a center for training and further education in a wide range of performing and fine arts, striving for excellence in all areas for God’s glory. ANNA LAPWOOD PRESENTED BY:THE DIANE BISH CENTER FOR
- [Newsletter](https://institutefc.org/newsletter/) - New Articles in Your Inbox Receive the latest insights from the Institute for Faith & Culture and never miss a publication.
- [Kingdom Come](https://institutefc.org/kc/) - THE MIND OF CHRIST IN OUR SECULAR AGE APRIL 4-6, 2025FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA CLICK TO REGISTER CLICK TO REGISTER JOIN US APRIL 4-6 IN Fort Lauderdale, florida PLAN YOUR TRIP Discover kingdom come https://institutefc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Kingdom-Come-2024-NO-BUG.mp4 SPEAKER LINEUP ALLIE BETH STUCKEY ERWIN LUTZER Riley Gaines STEPHEN MANSFIELD SAMUEL SEY ROSARIA BUTTERFIELD COSTI W. HINN TIM SANSBURY ROB
- [Internship](https://institutefc.org/initiatives/internship/) - Internship Program Internshipquick Facts Apply Today 10 WEEKS | BEGINNING MAY 27 IDEAL INTERN: RISING COLLEGE SOPHOMORE, JUNIOR, OR SENIOR FOCUSES ON: BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW, SPIRITUAL FORMATION, AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT EXPENSE PAID TRIPS: WASHINGTON D.C. AND HAVANA, CUBA CAPSTONE PROJECT: INDIVIDUALLY TAILORED TO YOUR POTENTIAL PROFESSION AND CALLING STIPEND: $2,000 About the Internship The Institute for
- [Live Stream Event](https://institutefc.org/live-stream-event/) - Days Hours Minutes Seconds SUPPORT THE MISSION OF THE INSTITUTE FOR FAITH & CULTURE help us stand for biblical truth in an upside down world Your gift today allows us to continue to equip Christians to stand for truth. We pledge to be a clear, consistent, and faithful voice in this cultural moment. This public
- [Research](https://institutefc.org/research/) - INSTITUTE RESEARCH With biblical literacy at an all-time low, the majority of North American Christians are not operating with a worldview based on objective truth. The Institute for Faith and Culture is committed to equipping men and women with a biblically informed view of the world that shapes all of life. Flash poll conducted by
- [Live Stream Registration](https://institutefc.org/live-stream-registration/) - Register to watch live!
- [Live Stream Lander](https://institutefc.org/swainlive/) - Join the Institute for Faith and Culture for a livestream event with Dr. Carol Swain as she discusses the nearing election and joins us in a special time of prayer! WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30 | 6PM JOIN VIA LIVESTREAM help us stand for biblical truth in an upside down world Your gift today allows us to
- [Church Music Explosion](https://institutefc.org/cme/) - Church Music Explosion is a workshop committed to excellence in worship, church music education and performance, fulfilling the church motto:“EXCELLENCE IN ALL THINGS AND ALL THINGS TO GOD’S GLORY”! FEATURING PEARL SHANGKUAN & DAN FORREST January 8-10, 2025 Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church, Ft Lauderdale, FL Presented in Partnership with the Diane Bish Center for Music
- [A Public Faith](https://institutefc.org/a-public-faith/) - A PUBLIC FAITH DR. ROBERT J. PACIENZA Dr. Rob Pacienza explores how Christians should practice their faith publicly in a post-Christian society, where Christianity is no longer the dominant worldview. This booklet emphasizes the timeless calling of the Church to advance God’s Kingdom on earth and the importance of bearing witness to the gospel, as
- [God's Design for the State](https://institutefc.org/gods-design-for-the-state/) - God’s Design for the State DR. ROBERT J. PACIENZA Dr. Rob Pacienza discusses the relationship between the church, government, and politics, highlighting the role of Christians in today’s political landscape. Drawing from Scripture, Dr. Pacienza emphasizes that God is sovereign over both the church and the state, and civil authorities derive their power from Him.
- [The Making and Meaning of Marriage](https://institutefc.org/the-making-and-meaning-of-marriage/) - The Making and Meaning of Marriage DR. Voddie Baucham Dr. Voddie Bauchem addresses the definitions of man, woman, and marriage within a religious and cultural framework. He explores the roles of men and women in creation, emphasizing the connection between the prohibition of eating from the Tree of Knowledge and the creation of woman. Dive
- [Our Calling and Purpose](https://institutefc.org/our-calling-and-purpose/) - Our Calling and Purpose DR. Os Guinness Dr. Os Guinness reflects on the meaningful connections he shared with others, especially a particular group of friends, and the impact these bonds had on his life. Despite the passage of time and changes, these friendships remain a significant part of his memories. This booklet captures the depth
- [Certificate Program](https://institutefc.org/initiatives/certificate-program/) - Institute Certificate Program certificate programquick Facts MULTI-SEMESTER PROGRAMS IDEAL PARTICIPANT: FROM BUSINESS LEADERS TO STAY-AT-HOME MOMS, THE PROGRAM IS FOR THE PERSON THAT WANTS TO DIVE DEEPER INTO THE INTERSECTION OF FAITH AND CULTURE CORE AND ELECTIVE COURSES OFFERED Core Program The Institute for Faith & Culture’s Certificate Program is a multi-course/semester program with
- [Shop](https://institutefc.org/shop/)
- [Speaker's Bureau](https://institutefc.org/speakers-bureau/) - SPEAKER’S BUREAU Meet our esteemed speakers ready to contribute to your next gathering with impactful insights. The speakers in this list are offered to like-minded organizations (college clubs, churches, civic groups, and more) at no cost or at a significantly discounted rate. To request a speaker, please fill out the Speaker Request Form. Please contact
- [City of God](https://institutefc.org/city-of-god/) - LISTEN WATCH about the show The City of God gives biblical understanding and fresh perspective on today’s biggest cultural issues. Co-hosted by D. Coral Ridge Ministries President and CEO, Robert Pacienza, and Director of Creative Production, John Rabe, this weekly podcast supplies you with in-depth discussions about what really matters in America today. Produced by Coral
- [Contributors & Speakers](https://institutefc.org/about/contributors-speakers/) - INSTITUTE Contributors and Speakers
- [Kingdom Come Conference](https://institutefc.org/kcc-2/) - JOIN US MARCH 14-16 IN Fort Lauderdale, florida PLAN YOUR TRIP In this cultural moment, the North American church faces an array of pressing questions and ideological pressures impacting all facets of life. Delve into the heart of these issues, equip yourself with the intellectual tools, spiritual guidance, and unwavering conviction to stand firm in
- [Senior Fellows](https://institutefc.org/about/senior-fellows-contributors/) - INSTITUTE senior fellows
- [Courses](https://institutefc.org/courses-4/) - Courses Core Program The Institute for Faith & Culture’s Certificate Program is a multi-course/semester program with both core and elective courses taught by theologians, thought leaders, and Christian statesmen. Upon completion, students are issued a certificate of completion. Core course offerings are broken into three main categories: Biblical Knowledge, Biblical Competency, and Biblical Influence. CORE
- [Kingdom Come Videos](https://institutefc.org/kingdom-come-videos/) - INSTITUTE Kingdom Come Video Archive
- [Initiatives](https://institutefc.org/initiatives/) - Our Initiatives OurInitiatives Certificate program Click here Internship Program Click here Upcoming Events Click here
- [Upcoming Events](https://institutefc.org/upcoming-events/)
- [Kingdom Come](https://institutefc.org/upcoming-events/kingdom-come/)

## My Templates

- [Elementor Loop Item #15464](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-17)
- [Elementor Loop Item #13086](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-5)
- [Advisory Board (Walker)](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=advisory-board-walker) - Virgil Walker Virgil Walker serves as a Teaching Pastor at Redeemer Bible Church in Gilbert, Arizona, where he faithfully proclaims God’s Word and equips believers for ministry. He serves on the Advisory Board for the Institute for Faith & Culture, and he is also the co-host, alongside Darrell Harrison, of the Just Thinking Podcast—one of
- [Advisory Board (Volkert)](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=advisory-board-volkert) - Chad Volkert Chad Volkert is a Global C-Suite Leader at Protiviti and a member of the firm’s Executive Leadership team. He specializes in advising executive leadership on business optimization, AI-driven innovation, and navigating complex areas of legal risk. With over 25 years of executive experience, he has a proven track record of helping growing companies
- [Advisory Board (Pacienza)](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=advisory-board-pacienza) - Rob Pacienza Rob Pacienza is the Senior Pastor of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church (Fort Lauderdale, FL), the President of Coral Ridge Media, and the Founder of the Institute for Faith & Culture. He also serves on the council of the Gospel Reformation Network. Rob is a graduate of Samford University (B.A. ’03) and Knox Theological
- [Advisory Board (Mansfield)](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=advisory-board-mansfield) - Stephen Mansfield Stephen Mansfield is a New York Times bestselling author and popular speaker who leads a speaker training firm based in Washington, DC. He first rose to global attention with his groundbreaking book The Faith of George W. Bush, a bestseller that Time magazine credited with helping to shape the 2004 US presidential election.
- [Advisory Board (Helfenbein)](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=advisory-board-helfenbein) - Ryan Helfenbein Ryan Helfenbein is the Vice President of Communications and Public Engagement at Liberty University and the Founding Executive Director of the Standing for Freedom Center where he is the host of the Give Me Liberty podcast and a regular Christian cultural and political commentator with appearances on Fox News, Newsmax, Real America’s Voice
- [Advisory Board (Grant)](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=advisory-board-grant) - George Grant George Grant is the Pastor Emeritus of Parish Presbyterian Church and the Founder of Franklin Classical School, the Comenius School, Bannockburn College, and New College Franklin. He is the Director of the King’s Meadow Study Center and the Coordinator of the Chalmers Fund. He is the author of more than eight dozen books
- [Advisory Board (Crain)](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=advisory-board-crain) - Natasha Crain Natasha Crain is a national speaker, author, host of The Natasha Crain Podcast, and co-hosts the Unshaken Faith Podcast with Alisa Childers. She is passionate about equipping Christians to think clearly and hold to a biblical worldview in a secular culture. She addresses a wide range of topics including apologetics, theology, culture, politics,
- [Advisory Board (Carneal)](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=advisory-board-carneal) - Chris Carneal Chris Carneal is the Founder and CEO of Booster, the #1 school fundraising company in America. Since 2002, Booster has raised schools over $500 million for local education through its flagship program, the Boosterthon Fun Run. As the son of an educator, Chris created Booster to help schools flourish. It profits schools more
- [Advisory Board (Burns)](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=advisory-board-burns) - Brent Burns Brent Burns is board member and former chief executive officer of JM Family Enterprises, Inc., a privately held company with more than $20 billion in revenue and more than 5,000 associates. JM Family is rooted in automotive and united in its strong culture and core values. Burns joined JM Family in 2000 and
- [Advisory Board (Bishop)](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=advisory-board-barbar) - Laura Bishop Laura Bishop is the Executive Vice President of Advancement at Palm Beach Atlantic University. She is responsible for planning, organizing and implementing the University’s fundraising, marketing, communications, community relations, planned giving and alumni & parent relations efforts. Working alongside the university’s president, Bishop is spearheading the $500 million “God-Sized Dreams” capital campaign. Prior
- [Advisory Board (Barbar)](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=advisory-board) - George Barbar George Barbar is a Senior Managing Director and Head of Regional Development and Strategy for Mesirow. He is the principal of the Boca Raton office and leads Mesirow’s strategic Southeast expansion. George is founder and president of the South Florida Bond Traders Association, treasurer of the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias, board member
- [Elementor Archive #15462](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-15462)
- [Elementor Loop Item #14349](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-14)
- [Elementor Loop Item #14326](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-12)
- [Elementor Header #13140](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-header-13140) - GIVE NOW SUBSCRIBE VIDEO STORE GIVE NOW WORK & ECONOMICS Close WORK & ECONOMICS Open WORK & ECONOMICS Latest ARTICLE By Joshua Nangle Trending Now 00 BY Russell Gehrlein 00 BY Russell Gehrlein 00 BY Glenn Brooke MORE RESOURCES CITY OF GOD PODCAST REDEEMING WORK PODCAST EXECUTIVE ROUNDTABLE RESEARCH PAPERS SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER LISTEN
- [Elementor Loop Item #13117](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-8)
- [Elementor Loop Item #13095](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-6)
- [Elementor Single Post #14406](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-single-post-14406) - X-twitter Continue Reading VIEW ALL
- [Elementor Loop Item #16556](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-18)
- [Podcast Single post](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-single-post-2213) - More Podcasts
- [Elementor Loop Item #14295](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-10) - LISTEN NOW SEE MORE PODCASTS
- [Elementor Loop Item #14336](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-13)
- [kcc newest](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=kcc-newest) - THE CHRISTIAN CITIZEN MARCH 27-29, 2026FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA CLICK TO REGISTER CLICK TO REGISTER “So many other Christian conferences are oblivious to the reality of the culture we are living in today. I leave Kingdom Come each year equipped, encouraged, and filled with the hope of the Gospel.” – Rosaria ButterfieldKingdom Come Speaker TITLE SPONSOR:
- [Topic Page Buildout](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=topic-page-buildout) - Work & Economics LATEST EPISODE Research Papers VIEW ALL Latest Articles VIEW ALL
- [Roundtable-New](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=roundtable-new) - Join a growing network of executives committed to faith-driven leadership The Executive Roundtable, a global initiative under the Institute of Faith and Culture, is dedicated to equipping Christian business leaders with faith-based programming to empower them for this cultural moment. This program is designed in response to the urgent need for Christian leaders to shape
- [Elementor Loop Item #11499](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-3)
- [Site Footer](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-footer-63) - 5555 North Federal HwyFort Lauderdale, FL 33308(954) 771-8840info@institutefc.org ABOUT INITIATIVES EVENTS PODCASTS GIVE NOW FOLLOW US Facebook-f Instagram Youtube 5555 North Federal HwyFort Lauderdale, FL 33308(954) 771-8840info@institutefc.org FOLLOW US Facebook-f Twitter Instagram Youtube
- [Elementor Loop Item #14488](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-16) - 00
- [Elementor Header #16645](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-header-16645) - GIVE NOW WORK & ECONOMICS Close WORK & ECONOMICS Open WORK & ECONOMICS Latest ARTICLE By Mike Sharrow Trending Now 00 BY Hugh Whelchel 00 BY Hugh Whelchel 00 BY Hugh Whelchel MORE RESOURCES CITY OF GOD PODCAST CITY OF GOD FAMILIES REDEEMING WORK PODCAST VIDEO ARCHIVES GOD’S DESIGN SERIES SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER LISTEN
- [Elementor Single Post #16634](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-single-post-16634) - More Videos
- [Elementor Loop Item #16573](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-19)
- [Elementor Loop Item #14312](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-11)
- [Elementor Loop Item #14457](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-15)
- [Default Kit](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=default-kit)
- [Elementor Loop Item #13134](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-9)
- [Elementor Loop Item #13108](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-7)
- [Elementor Loop Item #13073](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-4)
- [Family Resources](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=family-resources) - IFC Family Resources LISTEN TO THE PODCAST FAMILY ARTICLES
- [Video Download](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=video-download) - SUBSCRIBE FOR ACCESS Get instant download access to all of the God’s Design resources!
- [How Firm a Foundation](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=how-firm-a-foundation) - available now HOW FIRMA FOUNDATION In a world of shifting values and competing worldviews, how can Christians develop a faith that remains steady through life’s storms? ORDER NOW Read Free Sample Rob Pacienza’s How Firm a Foundation is bold, urgent, and pastoral. This book is a roadmap for living with courageous faith in an age
- [Video Player](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=video-player) - https://institutefc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CoralRidge_Creation_15633v4_Final_Epipheo.mp4
- [Elementor Header #138](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-header-138) - SEARCH Main Menu Resources Articles Research City of God Podcast Videos Topics Biblical Worldview Vocation & Leadership Cultural Trends Politics Economics Marriage & Family About Mission, Vision, and Values Staff & Advisory Contributors & Speakers Senior Fellows Initiatives Certificate Program Internship Center for Music and the Arts Speaker’s Bureau National Essay Contest Events Kingdom Come
- [Elementor Products Archive #7437](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-products-archive-7437) - SHOP Books Downloads
- [Essay Contest](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=subscribe-2) - The MIND OF CHRIST IN OUR SECULAR AGE The Institute for Faith & Culture invites you to participate in our National Student Essay Contest, an exciting opportunity to reflect on“The Mind of Christ in Our Secular Age.” LEARN MORE
- [Mobile Menu Popup](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=mobile-menu-popup) - ACTION BUTTON Main Menu Resources Articles Research City of God Podcast Videos Topics Biblical Worldview Vocation & Leadership Cultural Trends Politics Economics Marriage & Family About Mission, Vision, and Values Staff & Advisory Contributors & Speakers Senior Fellows Initiatives Certificate Program Internship Center for Music and the Arts Speaker’s Bureau National Essay Contest Events Kingdom
- [essay contest](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=essay-contest) - The MIND OF CHRIST IN OUR SECULAR AGE The Institute for Faith & Culture invites you to participate in our National Student Essay Contest, an exciting opportunity to reflect on“The Mind of Christ in Our Secular Age.” LEARN MORE
- [Subscribe](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=subscribe) - Receive the latest news Subscribe To Our Resource Newsletter Get notified about new articles from the Institute.
- [Elementor Loop Item #2753](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item)
- [donation-form](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=donation-form) - help us stand for biblical truth in an upside down world Your gift today allows us to continue to equip Christians to stand for truth. We pledge to be a clear, consistent, and faithful voice in this cultural moment. This public witness is needed in our chaotic times. The victory of secularism is not inevitable.
- [carson-ssn-banner](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=carson-ssn-banner)
- [download confirmation](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=download-confirmation) - Your file has downloaded!
- [Categories and Search Results](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-1496) - INSTITUTE Resources
- [Article Archive](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-2539) - INSTITUTE Resources
- [Events Archive Page](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-835) - UPCOMING EVENTS
- [event-lander](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=event-lander)
- [Elementor Loop Item #6237](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-2)
- [Article List on Resources Page](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-1366)
- [Elementor Archive #5024](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-5024) - INSTITUTE RESOURCES
- [Podcast Loop](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-2593)
- [Bio Page Post](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-single-post-1518) - ABOUT
- [Plan Your Trip](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=plan-your-trip) - PLAN YOUR TRIP
- [Visit Ft Lauderdale](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=visit-ft-lauderdale) - JOIN US MARCH 14-16 IN Fort Lauderdale, florida PLAN YOUR TRIP
- [JOIN US KC](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=join-us-kc) - JOIN US MARCH 14-16 IN Fort Lauderdale, florida PLAN YOUR TRIP
- [music-why-we-exist](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=music-why-we-exist) - PURPOSEWHY WE EXIST The Diane Bish Center for Music and the Arts will be a center for training and further education in a wide range of performing and fine arts, striving for excellence in all areas for God’s glory.
- [Bento three image](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=bento-three-image)
- [Bento Info Section](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=bento-info-section) - REGISTRATION INFORMATION: There will be a one-time non-refundable $50 fee for the initial set-up of lessons for the student. A family discount of 50% per registration will be given for each additional family member. Registration fees are waived for students who return within one year. Program handbook
- [Full Blog Page Post](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-single-post-1231) - INSTITUTE ARCHIVE Resources for you Resources for you Share this post: Facebook X Subscribe To Our Resources Newsletter No spam, stay up to date on new articles, resources and events!
- [Events Archive Individual Tile](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-928)
- [God's Design Query - Video Archive](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-3220) - INSTITUTE RESOURCES
- [Kingdom Come Query - Video Archive](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-3216) - INSTITUTE RESOURCES
- [Voddie Baucham Query - Video Archive](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-3212) - INSTITUTE RESOURCES
- [Faith And Culture Query - Video Tag](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-3206) - INSTITUTE RESOURCES
- [Video Archive](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-2264) - INSTITUTE RESOURCES
- [Slide Out Search](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=slide-out-search) - BROWSE TOPICS Main Menu Biblical Worldview Cultural Trends Economics Marriage & Family Vocation & Leadership Politics BROWSE BY RESOURCE TYPE Main Menu Article Video Podcast Downloads BROWSE BY AUTHOR Main Menu Authors Alisa Childers Alistair Begg David Bibee Erwin Lutzer Francis Schaeffer Harry Reeder HB Charles Joel Satterly Lauren Cooley Michael Kruger Os Guinness Peter
- [Author Loop](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-2900) - Click here
- [Author Archive](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-2859) - INSTITUTE Author Archive
- [Resource Library](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-1445) - INSTITUTE RESOURCE LIBRARY
- [Podcast Archive](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-1591)
- [Podcast Loop](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-1609)
- [Articles Archive](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=articles-archive) - INSTITUTE Resources
- [Article Archive Loop](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-2513)
- [Downloads Loop for Resource Page](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-1289)
- [Elementor Loop Item #2292](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item-2292)
- [Elementor Single Post #2280](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-single-post-2280) - You May Also Enjoy
- [Side Bar Search Menu](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=side-bar-search-menu) - BROWSE TOPICS Main Menu Biblical Worldview Cultural Trends Economics Marriage & Family Vocation & Leadership Politics BROWSE BY RESOURCE TYPE Main Menu Article Video Podcast Downloads
- [Elementor Error 404 #1937](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-error-404-1937) - 404 Ooops. The page you were looking for couldn’t be found. You can navigate through our menu or use this search bar:
- [Home Page Draft](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=home-page-draft) - The Church’s Response to Human Trafficking Raleigh Sadler A clear understanding of the nature of trafficking is the first step toward an appropriate response for the local church. Principals, Partners, or Pawns? Parents’ Role in Education Rob Pacienza Jesus Christ, The World’s Only Hope Dr. T. Desmond Alexander Christian Witness in the Public Square? It’s
- [Mobile Menu](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=mobile-menu) - Main Menu Home About Mission, Vision, and Values Staff & Advisory Contributors & Speakers Senior Fellows Initiatives Certificate Program Courses CULTURAL APOLOGETICS | Voddie Baucham Internship Christian Statesmanship Events Kingdom Come Youtube Live Feed Contact Get Involved Facebook Twitter Youtube
- [Resources Archive Page](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-archive-1214) - Equipping Christians for this cultural moment. LEARN MORE The Church’s Response to Human Trafficking by Raleigh Sadler “I shared my story with the pastor of my church and felt judged, and it was as if they had no idea how else to respond.” Haunting statements like this one no longer shock me. Click here Principals, Partners,
- [Event Template with Bio](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=event-template-with-bio) - FAMILY SERIES An Evening with Tony Reinke SEPTEMBER 13 | 6:30PMCORAL RIDGE SANCTUARY TECHNOLOGY, CELL PHONES, SOCIAL MEDIA AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE FAMILY Join us on Wednesday, September 13 as we welcome renowned author and speaker Tony Reinke. None of us live outside the impact that technology has in our culture. In a world that’s
- [Core Course Template](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=core-course-template) - CUltural Apologetics with Dr. Voddie Baucham CERTIFICATE CORE COURSE Course Specifications Course Registration LEARN ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR Syllabus INSTRUCTOR: Voddie BauchamDATE: January 13 & 14COST: $60 In partnership with the Institute for Faith & Culture, Coral Ridge will welcome back Voddie Baucham for a special course on Cultural Aplogetics. Voddie will teach on the importance
- [Event Template](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=event-template) - UPCOMING EVENTS An Evening with Ben Carson and Alveda King Monday, February 27 | 7:00pm Register today Join us for an Evening with Ben Carson and Alveda King. They will be leading a panel discussion with Pastor Rob addressing the intersection of faith and culture, including topics such as sanctity of human life, education opportunity,
- [Elementor Loop #344](https://institutefc.org/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-344) - Learn More

## Products

- [True, Good, & Beautiful](https://institutefc.org/product/true-good-and-beautiful/) - Our journey to the solution begins as we discover God’s design as explained in the Bible. In this new book, Dr. Robert J. Pacienza guides us through the difficult but glorious task of declaring and demonstrating that God’s design is true, good, and beautiful.
- [True, Good, and Beautiful (E-Book)](https://institutefc.org/product/true-good-and-beautiful-e-book/) - NOTE: THIS IS A DIGITAL DOWNLOAD Discover God’s design for your life and world! Request True, Good, & Beautiful: God’s Design for a Flourishing World, Dr. Pacienza’s new book.
- [Redeeming Monday](https://institutefc.org/product/redeeming-monday/) - Bring purpose to your workweek with Redeeming Monday: 30 Prayers for Business Leaders. This powerful collection of prayers helps bridge the gap between Sunday faith and Monday responsibilities, grounding your leadership in God’s truth. Each prayer invites you to see your work as worship and your workplace as a mission field. Start each day with clarity, conviction, and a kingdom perspective.
- [The Hope of the World](https://institutefc.org/product/the-hope-of-the-world/) - “Although our faith is deeply personal, it is never to remain private,” writes Pacienza as he summons today’s Church to be the counter-cultural institution it has been for the past two thousand years.
- [A Public Faith](https://institutefc.org/product/a-public-faith/) - PDF Download Dr. Rob Pacienza explores how Christians should practice their faith publicly in a post-Christian society, where Christianity is no longer the dominant worldview. This booklet emphasizes the timeless calling of the Church to advance God’s Kingdom on earth and the importance of bearing witness to the gospel, as Jesus instructed. Using the example
- [The Making and Meaning of Marriage](https://institutefc.org/product/the-making-and-meaning-of-marriage/) - PDF Download Dr. Voddie Bauchem addresses the definitions of man, woman, and marriage within a religious and cultural framework. He explores the roles of men and women in creation, emphasizing the connection between the prohibition of eating from the Tree of Knowledge and the creation of woman. Dive into marriage's purpose, highlighting the natural complementarity
- [Our Calling and Purpose](https://institutefc.org/product/our-calling-and-purpose/) - PDF Download Dr. Os Guinness reflects on the meaningful connections he shared with others, especially a particular group of friends, and the impact these bonds had on his life. Despite the passage of time and changes, these friendships remain a significant part of his memories. This booklet captures the depth of relationships formed during formative
- [God's Design for the State](https://institutefc.org/product/gods-design-for-the-state/) - PDF Download Dr. Rob Pacienza discusses the relationship between the church, government, and politics, highlighting the role of Christians in today's political landscape. Drawing from Scripture, Dr. Pacienza emphasizes that God is sovereign over both the church and the state, and civil authorities derive their power from Him. There is a call for Christians to
- [Christianity and Liberalism](https://institutefc.org/product/christianity-and-liberalism/) - J. Gresham Machen's book Christianity and Liberalism reaches the 100-year milestone of its original publication. Available now, this is a special anniversary hardcover edition with foreword by Dr. Peter A. Lillback and afterword by Dr. Robert J. Pacienza.

## Leadership

- [Chris Leader](https://institutefc.org/leadership/chris-leader/) - Chris Leader is from Atlanta, Georgia, and serves as the Chief Advisor for the Center for the American Dream at AFPI. He is also the Executive Director of Speak for Life and Chief of Staff to Dr. Alveda King. In addition to his work with the pro-life community, Chris serves as the President of Kids
- [Joel Pelsue](https://institutefc.org/leadership/joel-pelsue/) - Joel Pelsue is the Founder and President of Arts and Entertainment Ministries (AEM) in Los Angeles. His work in Los Angeles has focused on equipping artists, educators, and cultural leaders to use their gifts to be salt and light in the mainstream culture. Joel has a B.A in Philosophy from Westmont College in Santa Barbara,
- [Lauren Cooley](https://institutefc.org/leadership/lauren-cooley/) - Lauren Cooley is the Vice President of Public Affairs for the Institute for Faith & Culture. She is also the Board Chair for the Center for Christian Statesmanship and serves on the Board of Directors for Coral Ridge Ministries. Lauren has appeared on TV and radio numerous times, including Fox News, Fox Nation, Newsmax, and
- [Andrew Nichols](https://institutefc.org/leadership/andrew-nichols/)
- [Lisa Wilson](https://institutefc.org/leadership/lisa-wilson/) - Lisa Wilson is the Director of the Diane Bish Center for Music and the Arts and is the Associate Organist at Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Previously, Lisa served as the Director of Fine Arts at Westminster Academy and was the Director at the Rejoice Center for the Arts. Lisa is a
- [Dr. Rob Pacienza](https://institutefc.org/leadership/pastor-rob-pacienza/) - Dr. Robert J. Pacienza is the Senior Pastor of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church (Fort Lauderdale, FL), the CEO/President of Coral Ridge Ministries, and the Founder of the Institute for Faith and Culture. He serves on the General Council of the Gospel Reformation Network, serves as Board Member for National Religious Broadcasters, and is a contributor to WORLD Opinions and The Washington Times. Rob is a graduate of Samford University (B.A. ’03), Knox Theological Seminary (M.Div. ’12), and Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia (D.Min. ’23). His doctorate project was
- [Stephen Mansfield](https://institutefc.org/leadership/stephen-mansfield/) - Stephen Mansfield first rose to global attention with his groundbreaking book The Faith of George W. Bush, a bestseller that Time magazine credited with helping to shape the 2004 US presidential election. Mansfield’s The Faith of Barack Obama was another international bestseller. He has written celebrated biographies of Booker T. Washington, George Whitefield, Winston Churchill,
- [Christine Sneeringer](https://institutefc.org/leadership/christine-sneeringer/) - Christine Sneeringer has a Bachelor’s degree in Theology from Oxford University and a Master’s degree in Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University. She leads TruGender, a ministry for those affected by gender dysphoria and is a Contributor for the Institute for Faith and Culture. Christine writes and speaks on gender and sexuality, sharing her dramatic
- [Jack Brewer](https://institutefc.org/leadership/jack-brewer/) - Jack Brewer was raised in Grapevine, Texas, and is a Senior Fellow of the Institute for Faith and Culture. He serves as the Chair of the Center for Opportunity Now, and Vice-Chair of the Center for 1776 at AFPI. Recently, Brewer was an Advisory Board Member of Black Voices for Trump. In 2004, he started
- [Alveda King](https://institutefc.org/leadership/alveda-king/) - Alveda C. King, PhD, serves as Chair of the America First Policy Institute’s Center for the American Dream. She is the daughter of the late slain civil rights activist Rev. A. D. King and the niece of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., as well as a Christian evangelist; graduate of Aidan University; and
- [Carol Swain](https://institutefc.org/leadership/carol-swain-2/) - Born into abject poverty in rural Virginia, Dr. Carol Swain earned five degrees and obtained early tenure at Princeton and full professorship at Vanderbilt where she was professor of political science and a professor of law. Today she is a sought-after cable news contributor, prominent national speaker, and best-selling author. In addition to three Presidential
- [Voddie Baucham](https://institutefc.org/leadership/voddie-baucham-2/)
- [George Barbar: Chairman of the Board](https://institutefc.org/leadership/george-barbar/)
- [Gerry Perez](https://institutefc.org/leadership/gerry-perez/)
- [Sean McDowell](https://institutefc.org/leadership/sean-mcdowell/)
- [Virgil Walker](https://institutefc.org/leadership/virgil-walker/)
- [Rosaria Butterfield](https://institutefc.org/leadership/rosaria-butterfield/)
- [Alisa Childers](https://institutefc.org/leadership/alisa-childers/)
- [Michael Kruger](https://institutefc.org/leadership/michael-kruger/)
- [Sinclair Ferguson](https://institutefc.org/leadership/sinclair-ferguson/)
- [Erwin Lutzer](https://institutefc.org/leadership/erwin-lutzer/)
- [Harry Reeder](https://institutefc.org/leadership/harry-reeder/)
- [Tim Sansbury](https://institutefc.org/leadership/tim-sansbury/)
- [Hillary Morgan Ferrer](https://institutefc.org/leadership/hillary-morgan-ferrer/)
- [Candy Carson](https://institutefc.org/leadership/candy-carson/)
- [Ben Carson](https://institutefc.org/leadership/ben-carson/)
- [Carol Swain](https://institutefc.org/leadership/carol-swain/) - Dr. Carol Swain, an award-winning political scientist and former tenured professor at Princeton and Vanderbilt Universities, and is a Distinguished Senior Fellow for Constitutional Studies with the Texas Public Policy Foundation. She has served on the Tennessee Advisory Committee to the U.S. Civil Rights Commission, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the 1776 Commission. Dr. Swain
- [Scott Powell](https://institutefc.org/leadership/scott-powell/)
- [Joel Satterly](https://institutefc.org/leadership/joel-satterly/)
- [Synesio Lyra](https://institutefc.org/leadership/synesio-lyra/)
- [David Bibee](https://institutefc.org/leadership/david-bibee/)
- [Rob Hoskins](https://institutefc.org/leadership/rob-hoskins/) - Rob Hoskins is the President of OneHope. Born to missionary parents, he grew up in the Middle East and France. Since taking leadership of OneHope in 2004 he has continued to advance the vision of God’s Word. Every Child by partnering with local churches to help reach more than 1.8 BILLION children and youth worldwide with a
- [Lee Strobel](https://institutefc.org/leadership/lee-strobel/) - Atheist-turned-Christian Lee Strobel, the former award-winning legal editor of The Chicago Tribune, is a New York Times best-selling author of more than forty books and curricula that have sold fourteen million copies in total. He currently serves as Founding Director of the Lee Strobel Center for Evangelism and Applied Apologetics at Colorado Christian University. Lee
- [George Barna](https://institutefc.org/leadership/george-barna/) - George Barna has filled executive roles in politics, marketing, advertising, media development, research and ministry. He founded the Barna Research Group in 1984 (now The Barna Group) and helped it become a leading marketing research firm focused on the intersection of faith and culture before selling it in 2009. Through the Barna Group, George has
- [Andrew Siegenthaler](https://institutefc.org/leadership/andrew-siegenthaler/)
- [Sarah Russell](https://institutefc.org/leadership/sarah-russell/)
- [Heather Moraitis](https://institutefc.org/leadership/heather-moraitis/)
- [George Moraitis](https://institutefc.org/leadership/george-moraitis/)
- [Courtney Milam](https://institutefc.org/leadership/courtney-milam/)
- [Brad Haring](https://institutefc.org/leadership/brad-haring/)
- [Chris Carneal](https://institutefc.org/leadership/chris-carneal/)
- [Al Mohler](https://institutefc.org/leadership/al-mohler/) - Dr. R. Albert Mohler Jr. serves as president of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary – the flagship school of the Southern Baptist Convention and one of the largest seminaries in the world. Dr. Mohler has been recognized by such influential publications as Time, calling him the “reigning intellectual of the evangelical movement in the U.S.” In addition to
- [Bruce Ashford](https://institutefc.org/leadership/bruce-ashford/)
- [Peter Lillback](https://institutefc.org/leadership/peter-lillback/) - Rev. Dr. Peter Lillback (PhD, Westminster Theological Seminary) is president and professor of historical theology and church history at Westminster Theological Seminary. He also serves as the president emeritus and founder of The Providence Forum and senior editor of the new Unio cum Christo: An International Journal of Reformed Theology and Life.
- [Rita Cefalu](https://institutefc.org/leadership/rita-cefalu/)
- [Laura Bishop](https://institutefc.org/leadership/laura-bishop/)
- [OS Guinness](https://institutefc.org/leadership/os-guinness/) - Os Guinness is an author and social critic. Great-great-great grandson of Arthur Guinness, the Dublin brewer, he was born in China in World War Two where his parents were medical missionaries. A witness to the climax of the Chinese revolution in 1949, he was expelled with many other foreigners in 1951 and returned to Europe
- [Eric Metaxas](https://institutefc.org/leadership/eric-metaxas/) - Eric Metaxas is the #1 New York Times Bestselling author of Bonhoeffer, and many other books, including Is Atheism Dead?, Martin Luther, Amazing Grace, and Letter to the American Church. He has written more than thirty children’s books, including the bestsellers Squanto and the Miracle of Thanksgiving and It’s Time to Sleep, My Love, illustrated by Nancy Tillman. His books have been translated into more

## Events

- [Kingdom Come 2027](https://institutefc.org/events/kingdom-come-2027/)
- [Equip America](https://institutefc.org/events/equip-america/) - Coral Ridge Presbyterian ChurchFt Lauderdale, FL Saturday, May 16 from 9 am to 3 pm

## Downloads

- [Adult Survey](https://institutefc.org/downloads/adult-survey/)
- [Parent Survey](https://institutefc.org/downloads/parent-survey/)
- [High School Survey](https://institutefc.org/downloads/high-school-survey/)
- [College Survey](https://institutefc.org/downloads/college-survey/)

## Videos

- [God's Design | Purpose of Humanity](https://institutefc.org/gods-design-purpose-of-humanity/) - The world was designed by God and given to humanity to govern, explore, and develop. Men and women are each made to reflect God’s image in unique ways, with particular callings, so that together we can cultivate a thriving world with faithful families, all to the glory of God. When we follow God’s design, we
- [God's Design | Gender and Sexuality](https://institutefc.org/gods-design-gender-and-sexuality/) - The world was designed by God and given to humanity to govern, explore, and develop. Men and women are each made to reflect God’s image in unique ways, with particular callings, so that together we can cultivate a thriving world with faithful families, all to the glory of God. When we follow God’s design, we
- [God's Design | Work and Calling](https://institutefc.org/gods-design-work-and-calling/) - The world was designed by God and given to humanity to govern, explore, and develop. Men and women are each made to reflect God’s image in unique ways, with particular callings, so that together we can cultivate a thriving world with faithful families, all to the glory of God. When we follow God’s design, we
- [God's Design | Marriage and Family](https://institutefc.org/gods-design-marriage-and-family/) - The world was designed by God and given to humanity to govern, explore, and develop. Men and women are each made to reflect God’s image in unique ways, with particular callings, so that together we can cultivate a thriving world with faithful families, all to the glory of God. When we follow God’s design, we
- [God's Design | Gender Roles](https://institutefc.org/gods-design-gender-roles/) - The world was designed by God and given to humanity to govern, explore, and develop. Men and women are each made to reflect God’s image in unique ways, with particular callings, so that together we can cultivate a thriving world with faithful families, all to the glory of God. When we follow God’s design, we
- [God's Design | The State](https://institutefc.org/gods-design-the-state/) - The world was designed by God and given to humanity to govern, explore, and develop. Men and women are each made to reflect God’s image in unique ways, with particular callings, so that together we can cultivate a thriving world with faithful families, all to the glory of God. When we follow God’s design, we
- [God's Design | The Church](https://institutefc.org/gods-design-the-church/) - The world was designed by God and given to humanity to govern, explore, and develop. Men and women are each made to reflect God’s image in unique ways, with particular callings, so that together we can cultivate a thriving world with faithful families, all to the glory of God. When we follow God’s design, we
- [God's Design | Creation](https://institutefc.org/gods-design-creation/) - The world was designed by God and given to humanity to govern, explore, and develop. Men and women are each made to reflect God’s image in unique ways, with particular callings, so that together we can cultivate a thriving world with faithful families, all to the glory of God. When we follow God’s design, we
- [The Sanctity of Human Life | Rob Pacienza](https://institutefc.org/the-sanctity-of-human-life-rob-pacienza/) - January 21, 2024 Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- [What is this Cultural Moment?](https://institutefc.org/video/what-is-this-cultural-moment-2/)
- [Worldview and the Next Generation](https://institutefc.org/video/worldview-and-the-next-generation/)
- [Worldview and the Gospel](https://institutefc.org/video/worldview-and-the-gospel/)
- [Progressive Christianity](https://institutefc.org/video/alisa-childers/)
- [Q&A with Alistair Begg and Os Guinness](https://institutefc.org/video/qa-with-alistair-begg-and-os-guinness/)
- [The Sufficiency of God's Word in this Cultural Moment](https://institutefc.org/video/the-sufficiency-of-gods-word-in-this-cultural-moment/)
- [Defending the Faith in a Hostile World | Voddie Baucham](https://institutefc.org/defending-the-faith-in-a-hostile-world-voddie-baucham/)
- [Biblical Justice vs. Social Justice | Voddie Baucham](https://institutefc.org/biblical-justice-vs-social-justice-voddie-baucham/)
- [The Necessity of Absolute Truth | Voddie Baucham](https://institutefc.org/the-necessity-of-absolute-truth-voddie-baucham/)
- [A Christian Manifesto](https://institutefc.org/a-christian-manifesto/)
- [Mystery, Wonder, and Humility: Sufficiency's Unexpected Blessings](https://institutefc.org/mystery-wonder-and-humility-sufficiencys-unexpected-blessings/)
- [The Sufficiency of God's Word in Cultural Engagement](https://institutefc.org/the-sufficiency-of-gods-word-in-cultural-engagement/)
- [The Sufficiency of God's Word and the Family](https://institutefc.org/the-sufficiency-of-gods-word-and-the-family/)
- [The Sufficiency of God's Word and Church History](https://institutefc.org/the-sufficiency-of-gods-word-and-church-history/)
- [The Sufficiency of God's Word](https://institutefc.org/the-sufficiency-of-gods-word/)
- [Raising the Next Generation in Turbulent Times | Voddie Baucham](https://institutefc.org/raising-the-next-generation-in-turbulent-times-voddie-baucham/)
- [Unmasking Gender Ideology III](https://institutefc.org/unmasking-gender-ideology-iii/)

## Podcasts

- [America's Spiritual Crisis at 250 Years | Lucas Miles | Ep. 168](https://institutefc.org/podcast/americas-spiritual-crisis-at-250-years-lucas-miles-ep-168/) - In this provocative episode of the City of God, Dr. Rob Pacienza sits down with Lucas Miles, pastor, author, and leader of TPUSA Faith, for a wide-ranging conversation about deception, theology, and the future of the Church. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, many commentators focus on politics, economics, and cultural trends. Lucas argues that
- [Scripture & the Constitution | Dr. Carol Swain | Ep. 169](https://institutefc.org/podcast/scripture-the-constitution-dr-carol-swain-ep-169/) - As America prepares to celebrate her 250th anniversary, debates about the Constitution, religious liberty, and the nation's founding ideals are everywhere. But what did the Founders actually believe? And can constitutional government survive without the moral foundations that gave it life? In this timely episode of the City of God, Dr. Rob Pacienza sits down
- [Dr. D. James Kennedy's Daughter Shares His Legacy (Must Watch) | Ep. 151](https://institutefc.org/podcast/dr-d-james-kennedys-daughter-shares-his-legacy-must-watch-ep-151/) -  What happens to a powerful Gospel ministry after its founder goes home to glory? Jennifer Kennedy Cassidy — daughter of the legendary Dr. D. James Kennedy — sits down with Rob Pacienza for a rare, heartfelt conversation about her father's enduring legacy and how Coral Ridge Ministries is reaching a new generation with the
- [So Help Me God? Dr. Lillback Talks Oaths and Reacts to NYC Mayor's Quran Swearing In | Ep. 152](https://institutefc.org/podcast/21121/) - What happens when a nation drifts from the transcendent moral authority that once bound its oaths and leaders? Dr. Peter Lillback — president of Westminster Theological Seminary, acclaimed historian, and author of George Washington's Sacred Fire — sits down with Rob Pacienza for a profound, eye-opening discussion on the theology and history of oaths, why
- [2026 Midterms: Renewal or Decline? with Trump-Endorsed Karrin Taylor Robson | Ep.153](https://institutefc.org/podcast/2026-midterms-renewal-or-decline-with-trump-endorsed-karrin-taylor-robson-ep-153/) - What happens when biblical values are erased from the ballot box, borders are left open, and believers stay silent in the public square? In this powerful episode of the City of God, Dr. Rob Pacienza sits down with Karrin Taylor Robson — Arizona business leader, committed Christian, and 2026 gubernatorial candidate — for an inspiring
- [Biblical Truth versus Fake News with Brandon Showalter | Ep. 154](https://institutefc.org/podcast/biblical-truth-versus-fake-news-with-brandon-showalter-ep-154/) -  What happens when truth is sacrificed on the altar of ideology? In this hard-hitting episode of the City of God, Dr. Rob Pacienza sits down with Christian Post journalist Brandon Showalter — a fearless voice in Christian media — to uncover how the mainstream press has fueled deception, and what it takes to restore
- [The Trans Agenda: Two Moms Fight Back | Ep. 155](https://institutefc.org/podcast/the-trans-agenda-two-moms-fight-back-ep-155/) - What happens when a school hides your child’s gender transition? What if a hospital pressures your daughter or son into irreversible medical harm and threatens you for speaking out? In this gripping, must-watch episode of the City of God, Dr. Rob Pacienza sits down with two courageous mothers: Amy Atterberry and January Littlejohn. Their daughters
- [How Gender Ideology Infiltrated Medicine | Dr. Quentin Van Meter | Ep. 156](https://institutefc.org/podcast/how-gender-ideology-infiltrated-medicine-dr-quentin-van-meter-ep-156/) - How did radical gender ideology move from fringe theory to mainstream medicine? In this eye-opening episode of the City of God, Dr. Rob Pacienza sits down with pediatric endocrinologist Dr. Quentin Van Meter to trace the disturbing origins of today’s transgender movement in medicine. From the influence of controversial researcher John Money to the normalization
- [Christ Is King with James Baird | Ep. 157](https://institutefc.org/podcast/christ-is-king-with-james-baird-ep-157/) - Is government meant to be spiritually neutral or accountable to God? In this episode of the City of God, Dr. Rob Pacienza sits down with pastor and author James Baird to discuss his book King of Kings and the forgotten Christian tradition connecting faith, government, and public life. Drawing from Scripture, Reformed theology, and American
- [Is the West Collapsing? Radical Islam, Europe & America’s Last Stand with Erick Stakelbeck | Ep. 158](https://institutefc.org/podcast/is-the-west-collapsing-radical-islam-europe-americas-last-stand-with-erick-stakelbeck-ep-158/) - What is really happening to Christians around the world and what does it mean for the future of the West? In this compelling episode of the City of God, Dr. Rob Pacienza sits down with TBN host and global affairs analyst Erick Stakelbeck for a wide-ranging conversation on the spiritual and geopolitical challenges shaping our
- [Charlie Kirk’s Legacy: Pastor Rob McCoy on the Awakening of a Generation | Ep. 159](https://institutefc.org/podcast/charlie-kirks-legacy-pastor-rob-mccoy-on-the-awakening-of-a-generation-ep-159/) - In this powerful episode of the City of God, Dr. Rob Pacienza sits down with Pastor Rob McCoy of Calvary Chapel Thousand Oaks for a fascinating conversation on faith, politics, and the spiritual future of America. Reflecting on the assassination of Charlie Kirk, Pastor Rob McCoy describes the young conservative leader as a modern-day Moses
- [Redeeming Work Ep. 1 | Stephen Mansfield](https://institutefc.org/redeeming-work-ep-1-stephen-mansfield/) - In this episode of the Redeeming Work Podcast, Dr. Rob Pacienza and Chad Volkert sit down with Dr. Stephen Mansfield—bestselling author and respected leadership strategist—to explore what it means to integrate faith, purpose, and virtue into today’s complex workplace. Stephen unpacks timeless leadership principles, the redemptive power of personal story, why excellence is a distinctly
- [Redeeming Work Ep. 2 | Chris Clements](https://institutefc.org/redeeming-work-ep-2-chris-clements/) - What does it look like to live out Christian faith at the highest levels of sports and entertainment leadership? In this episode of the Redeeming Work Podcast, hosts Dr. Rob Pacienza and Chad Volkert sit down with Chris Clements (Senior Vice President & CFO of the Miami Dolphins, Hard Rock Stadium, and the Formula One
- [Redeeming Work Ep. 3 | Brent Burns](https://institutefc.org/redeeming-work-ep-3-brent-burns/) - What does it look like to live out Christian faith at the highest levels of sports and entertainment leadership? In this episode of the Redeeming Work Podcast, hosts Dr. Rob Pacienza and Chad Volkert sit down with Chris Clements (Senior Vice President & CFO of the Miami Dolphins, Hard Rock Stadium, and the Formula One
- [The Assault on Marriage | Ep. 1](https://institutefc.org/the-assault-on-marriage-ep-1/) - Marriage is one of the most important institutions in our culture. Marriage is the basis for the family, one of the most vital aspects of our society. Yet today, marriage is under attack from those that wish to see the destruction of the family. With the so-called Respect for Marriage Act recently being passed, we
- [The Importance of Life | Ep. 2](https://institutefc.org/the-importance-of-life-ep-2/) - This year would have been the 50th anniversary of the infamous Roe v. Wade decision, but that ruling has been overturned, and the decision of abortion has been returned to the states. The pro-abortion lobby is still hard at work attacking anyone who doesn't kowtow to their radical ideology. This week we take a look
- [Christian Cultural Engagement | Ep. 3](https://institutefc.org/christian-cultural-engagement-ep-3/) - Many Christians tend to shy away from areas such as politics, law, economics, and entertainment, because they consider it too worldly. Prominent evangelical preachers have told us that such pursuits have nothing to do with the Kingdom of God and our focus should be on merely preaching the gospel. Lauren Cooley joins The City of
- [Patrick Bet-David Pt. 1 | Ep. 4](https://institutefc.org/patrick-bet-david-pt-1-ep-4/) - Patrick Bet-David is one of the most influential people in our culture today. From a humble beginning as a young immigrant escaping war-torn Iran with his parents, to founding his own company, Patrick has gained a first-hand understanding of what rags-to-riches means. Patrick is passionate about shaping the next generation of leaders by teaching thought-provoking
- [Rewriting Our History | Ep. 6](https://institutefc.org/rewriting-our-history-ep-6/) - Recently, the publishers of the beloved children’s author Roald Dahl released new editions of his books that have been rewritten by“sensitivity experts”with the purpose of making them less offensive and more inclusive. There is concern that these edits could set aprecedent, where works can be altered in response to an ever-shifting cultural climate. In this
- [Patrick Bet-David Pt. 2 | Ep. 5](https://institutefc.org/patrick-bet-david-pt-2-ep-5/) - Patrick Bet-David is a successful entrepreneur and a highly-regarded thought leader in ourculture today. In part 2 of our interview with PBD on the City of God, we discuss parentalrights in education. Why does the radical left want to raise our children and keep parentsout of the loop? We also discuss the battle for America,
- [Stephen Mansfield | Ep. 7](https://institutefc.org/stephen-mansfield-ep-7/) - Stephen Mansfield is a New York Times bestselling author who writes about history, modern culture, religion and topics for men. He is also an international speaker and a seasoned speaking coach to many top politicians and executives. On this episode of TheCity of God Podcast we dive into how faith has shaped some of the
- [The War on Truth | Ep. 8](https://institutefc.org/the-war-on-truth-ep-8/) - There is a war being waged on truth. This comes from the idea of Gnosticism where there is no longer“the truth”but rather“my truth”.This war on truth has spawned the idea of intersectionality which comes from Marxist critical theory and is applied to race, sex, gender, nationality, and a host of other categories. On this episode
- [Dr. Ben Carson | Ep. 9](https://institutefc.org/dr-ben-carson-ep-9/) - Dr. Ben Carson is a world renowned neurosurgeon, influential political leader, and founder of the American Cornerstone Institute. Dr. Carson ran for president in 2016 and served as the secretary for the Department of Housing and Urban Development. On this episode of the City of God, Rob and John discuss the importance of teaching true
- [Modern Christian Persecution | Ep. 10](https://institutefc.org/modern-christian-persecution/) - More and more, we’re seeing countless instances of Christians being targeted and arrested for simply living out their Christian beliefs in the public square. On this episode of The City of God, we take a look at the story of Mark Houck, a pro-life Christian who was unjustly terrorized by dozens of FBI agents at
- [Dr. Alveda King | Ep. 11](https://institutefc.org/dr-alveda-king-ep-11/) - Evangelist Dr. Alveda King is the niece of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. She is a great author, speaker, and activist who has a passion for the pro-life cause. Dr. King is the Chair of the America First Policy Institute’s Center for the American Dream. On this episode of The City of God, Rob and
- [Responding to Tragedy | Ep. 12](https://institutefc.org/responding-to-tragedy-ep-12/) - The recent school shooting at The Covenant School in Nashville, Tennessee was a horrific tragedy. But now the victims of this terrible attack are being painted in a negative light simply for holding to their Biblically founded worldview. What is the Christian response to tragedy? How do we go about preaching God’s inherent word, while
- [Dr. Tim Sansbury | Ep. 13](https://institutefc.org/dr-tim-sansbury-ep-13/) - Dr. Tim Sansbury is the professor of Philosophy and Theology at Knox Theological Seminary. He has his undergraduate degree in Physics from Georgia Tech and a Ph.D. from PrincetonTheological Seminary. On this episode of the City of God Podcast, we discuss the connection between science and theology, how to distinguish science from philosophy, and the
- [Dr. Michael Kruger | Ep. 14](https://institutefc.org/dr-michael-kruger-ep-14/) - Dr. Michael Kruger is the President and Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity at Reformed Theological Seminary Charlotte. He is the author of Surviving Religion: Letters to a Christian Student on Keeping the Faith in College. On this episode of The City of God Podcast, Rob and John ask Dr. Kruger about the foundations
- [The Christian Left | Ep. 15](https://institutefc.org/the-christian-left-ep-15/) - We are at a unique time as Christians living in America today, as the religious landscape is changing at a rapid pace. Progressive Christianity is infiltrating churches and pastors are becoming more and more woke. With issues such as morality, sexuality, and gender, the church is being told to get in line with the culture,
- [Dr. Voddie Baucham | Ep. 16](https://institutefc.org/dr-voddie-baucham-ep-16/) - Dr. Voddie Baucham, Jr. is a renowned speaker, pastor, and cultural apologist, as well as one of the great thought leaders of our time. He is the Dean of Theology at African Christian University in Zambia and the author of the best-selling book Fault Lines. Voddie has recently released a new 10-part video curriculum on
- [Dr. Erwin Lutzer | Ep. 17](https://institutefc.org/dr-erwin-lutzer-ep-17/) - Dr. Erwin Lutzer is the Pastor Emeritus at The Moody Church in Chicago, IL. He is a great speaker, radio host, and author who has written many wonderful books, including his latest, No Reason to Hide: Standing for Christ in a Collapsing Culture. On this episode of The City of God Podcast, Rob and John
- [Dr. Bob Barnes | Ep. 18](https://institutefc.org/dr-bob-barnes-ep-18/) - Dr. Bob Barnes is the director of Sheridan House Ministries, a community outreach that has been serving the needs of children and families in South Florida for over 50 years. He is also a well-noted speaker, presenting at seminars and conferences on parenting and marriage throughout North America. On this episode of The City of
- [Dr. Harry Reeder | Ep. 19](https://institutefc.org/dr-harry-reeder-ep-19/) - Dr. Harry L. Reeder III was senior pastor of Briarwood Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama and host of the podcasts Fresh Bread and Today in Perspective. He authored several books, including From Embers to a Flame. Tragically, on May 18, 2023, Dr. Reeder was involved in a fatal car crash, just 6 weeks after the
- [Hate Redefined | Ep. 20](https://institutefc.org/hate-redefined-ep-20/) - We now live in a Wikipedia society, where anyone can change the meaning of a word to satisfy a goal. Today, we’re seeing words being co-opted in order to deceive the uninformed or uneducated, to push a false narrative. LGBTQ activists in particular often label anyone who has a dissenting opinion as a "hater." On
- [What About Target?](https://institutefc.org/what-about-target/) - Target is facing widespread boycott and overall rebellion over its LGBTQ-affirming products and marketing, especially targeting children. Why should the Church be concerned? Should we boycott? What does a big box store's marketing strategy have to do with our faith and culture? Hear Rob and John discuss the implications of today's headlines.
- [Pride Month | Ep. 21](https://institutefc.org/pride-month-ep-21/) - In June, the radical left celebrates the LGBTQ+ lifestyle with something known as ‘Pride Month.' Last week, President Joe Biden welcomed hundreds to the White House for a pride celebration. The LGBTQ+ agenda is out to destroy the Judeo-Christian worldview because that is the biggest impediment for the ultimate domination of its worldview. On this
- [Dr. Joel Satterly | Ep. 22](https://institutefc.org/dr-joel-satterly-ep-22/) - Dr. Joel Satterly is the headmaster of Westminster Academy, a school founded by Dr. D. James Kennedy in 1971. Westminster Academy serves families and students in the Fort Lauderdale area as a Christian school with a focus on academic rigor and faith formation. Dr. Satterly’s dissertation is titled Constructing an Effective Biblical Worldview: The Significance
- [The War on Religious Liberty with Pastor Mike McClure | Ep. 23](https://institutefc.org/the-war-on-religious-liberty-with-pastor-mike-mcclure-ep-23/) - Pastor Mike McClure is the Senior Pastor of Calvary Chapel San Jose. His Church is facing $2.87 million dollars in fines for keeping their doors open during the COVID-19 pandemic, against county orders. His attorney, Mariah Gondeiro, who is Vice President and Legal Counsel for Advocates for Faith and Freedom, also joins us on this
- [America's Christian Heritage with Dr. Jerry Newcombe | Ep. 24](https://institutefc.org/americas-christian-heritage-with-dr-jerry-newcombe-ep-24/) - As we celebrate the birth of our nation on July 4th, it is vital to remember that the success of the American experiment is no accident. Judeo-Christian values are the bedrock of Western civilization and the bedrock and foundation of the United States of America. On this episode of The City of God Podcast, we
- [A Christian View of Patriotism | Ep. 25](https://institutefc.org/a-christian-view-of-patriotism-ep-25/) - Patriotism is under attack today. Standing for the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem is considered problematic by some. Many radical progressives even consider the American flag to be a symbol of hate and saying something as simple as “America first” is being labeled as xenophobic. On this episode of The City of God
- [The Christian Left, Part 2 | Ep. 26](https://institutefc.org/the-christian-left-part-2-ep-26/) - Progressive Christianity is an extremely important issue that the Church is facing today. Progressive ideology on abortion, gender, and sexuality are infiltrating many mainstream churches. Many well-known pastors are also going “woke," adhering to changing cultural values rather than Biblical values. Formerly reputable seminaries and Christian universities have gone progressive as well, veering away from
- [The Modern Feminist Movement | Ep. 27](https://institutefc.org/the-modern-feminist-movement-ep-27/) - The feminist movement has been through many phases throughout the years. Today, feminism is no longer about empowering women and providing equal rights; modern feminism actually degrades women. The LGBTQ+ agenda has virtually destroyed feminism, with some struggling to simply define what a woman is. On this episode of The City of God Podcast, Lauren
- [Protecting the Next Generation with Natasha Crain | Ep. 28](https://institutefc.org/protecting-the-next-generation-with-natasha-crain-ep-28/) - Natasha Crain is a national speaker, author, and podcaster who helps equip Christians to think biblically in a secular culture. She is passionate about issues relating to the family and has written several books on cultural apologetics for parents and children. Natasha is deeply concerned about the next generation and the chaos they are facing
- [The Church in America with Eric Metaxas | Ep. 29](https://institutefc.org/the-church-in-america-with-eric-metaxas-ep-29/) - Eric Metaxas is a well-known author, speaker, and radio host who is highly regarded as a great mind in the Christian sphere. He has written a number of best-selling books including his latest, Letter to the American Church. On this episode of The City of God Podcast we discuss the state of the Church in
- [Keeping the Faith | Ep. 30](https://institutefc.org/keeping-the-faith-ep-30/) - As students head off to college for the fall semester, many young Christians are faced with various spiritual challenges that will test their faith, especially for those attending secular schools. Barna Research estimates that roughly 70% of high school students who enter college as professing Christians will leave with little to no faith. On this
- [Pagan Spirituality with Dr. Peter Jones | Ep. 31](https://institutefc.org/pagan-spirituality-with-dr-peter-jones-ep-31/) - Dr. Jones is Associate Pastor at New Life Presbyterian Church and scholar-in-residence at Westminster Seminary California. He also serves as the director of truthXchange, a ministry that helps Christians articulate their faith in a neo-pagan culture. He is the author of The Other Worldview: Exposing Christianity's Greatest Threat. On this episode of The City of
- [Augustine's City of God with Dr. Michael Allen | Ep. 32](https://institutefc.org/augustines-city-of-god-with-dr-michael-allen-ep-32/) - Dr. Michael Allen is the John Dyer Trimble Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary. Dr. Allen’s research interests range widely over the topics of Christian doctrine. On this episode of The City of God Podcast, we discuss the great work by Augustine titled, “The City of God” and how the lessons from it
- [Christian Nationalism with David Bibee, Pt. 1 | Ep. 33](https://institutefc.org/christian-nationalism-with-david-bibee-pt-1-ep-33/) - David Bibee is the Director of Education at Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church. He has a Masters of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary. David has done great research into Christian Nationalism and Political Theology. On this episode of The City of God Podcast, we share part 1 of our deep dive into Christian Nationalism.
- [God’s Hand on American History with William J. Federer | Ep. 34](https://institutefc.org/gods-hand-on-american-history-with-william-j-federer-ep-34/) - William J. Federer is a nationally known speaker, author, and historian who has a passion for exploring the Christian roots of America’s founding era. He is the author of many best-selling books including Who is the King in America. On this episode of The City of God Podcast, we discuss the Judeo-Christian influence on American
- [Christianity and Liberalism with Dr. Peter Lillback | Ep. 35](https://institutefc.org/christianity-and-liberalism-with-dr-peter-lillback-ep-35/) - Dr. Peter Lillback is the president of Westminster Theological Seminary. He also serves as the president emeritus and founder of The Providence Forum and senior editor of Unio cum Christo: An International Journal of Reformed Theology and Life. On this episode of The City of God Podcast, we discuss the 100 year anniversary of the
- [Christian Nationalism with David Bibee, Pt. 2 | Ep. 36](https://institutefc.org/christian-nationalism-with-david-bibee-pt-2-ep-36/) - Christian Nationalism is a term that has been thrown around often, but what exactly does it mean? David Bibee, who holds a Masters of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary, has done a great amount of research into Christian Nationalism and helps lay out what exactly it is, and what implications it has for Christians. In
- [The Woke Church with Samuel Sey | Ep. 37](https://institutefc.org/the-woke-church-with-samuel-sey-ep-37/) - Now more than ever, prominent evangelical churches across the country are capitulating to the woke ideologies of the radical left. What is behind this surge of progressive Christianity, and what can be done about it? On this episode of The City of God Podcast, we speak about this issue with Samuel Sey. Samuel is a
- [The Lies of Deconstructionism with Alisa Childers | Ep. 38](https://institutefc.org/the-lies-of-deconstructionism-with-alisa-childers-ep-38/) - More and more today Churches are advancing the ideas of progressive Christianity, which is leading to many Christians deconstructing their faith. One individual who sat under the teaching of a progressive pastor is Alisa Childers. On today's episode of The City of God Podcast, Alisa shares her story of deconstructing her own faith and how
- [The Attack on Biblical Manhood with Dr. Owen Strachan | Ep. 39](https://institutefc.org/the-attack-on-biblical-manhood-with-dr-owen-strachan-ep-39/) - Biblical manhood has been in the crosshairs of the radical left for years. With phrases like “toxic masculinity” being thrown around, men today are being discouraged from holding to the traditional standards of Biblical manhood. On this episode of The City of God podcast we break down the attack on men that is permeating our
- [Woke Jesus with Pastor Lucas Miles | Ep. 40](https://institutefc.org/woke-jesus-with-pastor-lucas-miles-ep-40/) - Prominent members of the evangelical Church have been affirming progressive ideologies in recent times, and many evangelicals are either blind to what’s taking place or unwilling to call out what they see happening in the Church today. Pastor Lucas Miles has written a great book on this phenomenon called Woke Jesus: The False Messiah Destroying
- [Losing Our Grasp of a Biblical Worldview with Virgil Walker | Ep. 41](https://institutefc.org/losing-our-grasp-of-a-biblical-worldview-with-virgil-walker-ep-41/) - Studies show the majority of self-professing Christians don’t hold to a Biblical worldview. Biblical Christianity has been watered down and pastors have embraced relevance over the revelation of scripture. Meanwhile, the world around us has been flipped upside down. What is the solution to the chaos we see all around us? Virgil Walker is a
- [The Adversity of Diversity with Dr. Carol Swain | Ep. 42](https://institutefc.org/the-adversity-of-diversity-with-dr-carol-swain-ep-42/) - We often hear in the news about racism, bigotry, and xenophobia running rampant across America, when in reality, racist policies are really coming from those on the radical left. This past summer the Supreme Court struck down Affirmative Action for college admissions, putting an end to racial discrimination in academia. But today, with Diversity Equity
- [Exposing Cultural Lies with Alex McFarland | Ep. 43](https://institutefc.org/exposing-cultural-lies-with-alex-mcfarland-ep-43/) - There are many cultural lies permeating our society today. From gender identity to America’s Christian heritage, many Christians are hard-pressed to find Biblical truth in American society. On this episode of The City of God Podcast, we expose some of the biggest lies we hear today and discuss how to combat them. Alex McFarland is
- [The Persecuted Church with Wendy Wright | Ep. 44](https://institutefc.org/the-persecuted-church-with-wendy-wright-ep-44/) - All around the world Christians are being persecuted for their faith in huge numbers. In places like China and North Korea, Christianity is not tolerated. Wendy Wright has been fighting for Christians across the globe for years and currently serves as the president of Christian Freedom International. On today’s episode of The City of God,
- [Parental Rights Under Attack with Sonja Shaw | Ep. 45](https://institutefc.org/parental-rights-under-attack-with-sonja-shaw-ep-45/) - Sonja Shaw is the President of the Board of Education of The Chino Valley Unified School District in California. She recently made headlines for protecting parental rights as well as protecting children by passing a mandatory gender identity disclosure policy for her school district. Sonja has since received many death threats for passing this policy
- [Exposing the Gender Lie with Brandon Showalter | Ep. 46](https://institutefc.org/exposing-the-gender-lie-with-brandon-showalter-ep-46/) - Radical gender ideology targets children and wreaks psychological and medical havoc. Many have been stunned over the past few years to discover the damage this ideology inflicts on people. And at the root of this gender ideology is a lie, a complete rejection of Biblical truth. Today on the City of God we talk with
- [Harvard President Claudine Gay Plagiarism Allegations with Dr. Carol Swain | Ep. 47](https://institutefc.org/harvard-president-claudine-gay-plagiarism-allegations-with-dr-carol-swain-ep-47/) - During a congressional hearing last week, presidents from Harvard, MIT and the University of Pennsylvania came under fire for their testimony regarding the rise of anti-Semitism on college campuses. The three women remained evasive and dismissive when asked if calls for the genocide of Jews violated their universities policies on bullying and harassment. One of
- [A Conversation with Legendary Football Coach Lou Holtz | Ep. 48](https://institutefc.org/a-conversation-with-legendary-football-coach-lou-holtz-ep-48/) - Coach Lou Holtz is an American Football coach and analyst. He served as the head football coach at William & Mary, NC State, the University of Arkansas, the University of South Carolina, and the University of Minnesota. In 1988, Coach Holtz led the Notre Dame Fighting Irish to a National Championship. Coach Holtz is recognized
- [What if Jesus Had Never Been Born? | Ep. 49](https://institutefc.org/what-if-jesus-had-never-been-born-ep-49/) - “What if Jesus Had Never Been Born?” was the title of a book written by Coral Ridge Ministries’ founder Dr. D. James Kennedy, which examines how the birth of Jesus was really the birth that changed civilization forever. If Jesus hadn’t been born, what would the world look like today? On today’s episode of The
- [A Culture in Chaos with Dr. Sean McDowell | Ep. 50](https://institutefc.org/a-culture-in-chaos-with-dr-sean-mcdowell-ep-50/) - Dr. Sean McDowell is an apologist, author, speaker, and host of the “Think Biblically” podcast. Sean is an Associate Professor in the Christian Apologetics program at the Talbot School of Theology at Biola University and the co-author of “Evidence for Jesus: Timeless Answers for Tough Questions.” On today’s episode of The City of God, we
- [Living in an Anti-Christian Age with Rosaria Butterfield | Ep. 51](https://institutefc.org/living-in-an-anti-christian-age-with-rosaria-butterfield-ep-51/) - Rosaria Butterfield is a best-selling author and speaker who is well known in the Christian space. A former professor of English and Women’s Studies at Syracuse University, she was an advocate for the LGBTQ agenda. Rosaria was eventually led to saving faith in Christ and has since become a bold witness for her faith. Rosaria’s
- [End Times and Christian Nationalism with Aldo Leon and David Bibee | Ep. 52](https://institutefc.org/end-times-and-christian-nationalism-with-aldo-leon-and-david-bibee-ep-52/) - How we understand the end of history heavily impacts how we live in the present. Our view of the end times helps inform our understanding of politics, government, and cultural engagement. On today’s episode of The City of God, we discuss how our view on the end times impacts our call as Christians to engage
- [Understanding God’s Call with Os Guinness | Ep. 53](https://institutefc.org/understanding-gods-call-with-os-guinness-ep-53/) - Why am I here? What is God's call in my life? These are some of the existential questions that humans face. Understanding God’s call helps us develop a purposeful, intentional life of faith. On today’s episode of The City of God, we discuss finding purpose with Os Guinness, author of the classic book, “The Call:
- [Medical Freedom with Twila Brase | Ep. 54](https://institutefc.org/medical-freedom-with-twila-brase-ep-54/) - Can the government force us to make specific medical decisions? Recently, the idea of medical freedom has started to gain a lot of traction in the culture. The COVID pandemic opened the eyes of many when it comes to government interference with private health decisions. Twila Brase is a registered nurse and the President and
- [God’s Divine Providence with Dr. Jerry Newcombe | Ep. 55](https://institutefc.org/gods-divine-providence-with-dr-jerry-newcombe-ep-55/) - “Providence” is an old-fashioned word that simply means “God that provides for us.” The doctrine of Divine providence asserts that God is in complete control of all things. He is sovereign over the universe as a whole. Many of our founding fathers recognized that God’s providential hand was essential for the founding of this nation.
- [The Purpose of Apologetics with Hillary Morgan Ferrer | Ep. 56](https://institutefc.org/the-purpose-of-apologetics-with-hillary-morgan-ferrer-ep-56/) - Hillary Morgan Ferrer is an author, speaker, podcaster, and founder of Mama Bear Apologetics, which provides apologetics resources for busy moms. She specializes in cultural apologetics and has written many books that help parents navigate the culture while raising their children to have a biblical worldview.
- [Ideas Have Consequences with Dr. Joel Satterly | Ep. 57](https://institutefc.org/ideas-have-consequences-with-dr-joel-satterly-ep-57/) - Dr. Joel Satterly is the headmaster of Westminster Academy, a school founded by Dr. D. James Kennedy in 1971. Westminster Academy serves families and students in the Fort Lauderdale area as a Christian school with a focus on academic rigor and faith formation. On this episode of The City of God we talk about the
- [The Delicious Irony of the Left with Doug Wilson | Ep. 58](https://institutefc.org/the-delicious-irony-of-the-left-with-doug-wilson-ep-58/) - Doug Wilson is a conservative, Reformed, and evangelical theologian, pastor at Christ Church in Moscow, Idaho, faculty member at New Saint Andrews College, and author and speaker. Wilson is known for his writing on classical Christian education, Reformed theology, as well as general cultural commentary. On today’s episode of the City of God, we talk
- [Advocating for What is Right with Eric Metaxas | Ep. 59](https://institutefc.org/advocating-for-what-is-right-with-eric-metaxas-ep-59/) - Eric Metaxas is a well-known and highly regarded author, speaker, and radio host. Recently, a film adaptation of his best-selling book, “Letter to the American Church” was been released. The film lays out the parallels between early 1930’s Nazi Germany and other totalitarian regimes with what is happening in America today and how the church
- [The Honest Story of America with Tim Barton | Ep. 60](https://institutefc.org/the-honest-story-of-america-with-tim-barton-ep-60/) - The world wants Christians to believe that the Christian worldview had nothing to do with the founding of America. Were the founders actually influenced by God, or is that just myth? On this episode of the City of God Podcast, Tim Barton discusses the biblical foundation that built our great nation, and the individual stories
- [The Importance of Christian Faithfulness | Ep. 61](https://institutefc.org/the-importance-of-christian-faithfulness-ep-61/) - On this episode of The City of God Podcast, Dr. Albert Mohler talks about progressive Christianity, the state of education in America, and the importance for Christians to remain faithful to God in the midst of our cultural chaos. Dr. R. Albert Mohler, Jr. serves as president of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Dr. Mohler
- [Dissecting Cultural Lies with Lucas Miles | Ep. 62](https://institutefc.org/dissecting-cultural-lies-with-lucas-miles-ep-62/) - Progressive ideology is infiltrating evangelical churches today, and these ideas easily masquerade as Christian principles. At their core, however, they are deceptive. In this City of God Podcast, Pastor Lucas Miles discusses the biggest cultural lies we face to today and what we can do about them. Lucas Miles is the pastor of Nfluence Church
- [The Need for Personal Evangelism with Alex McFarland | Ep. 63](https://institutefc.org/the-need-for-personal-evangelism-with-alex-mcfarland-ep-63/) - Many in the Church today have given up on the idea of personal evangelism, but Christians engaging in active personal evangelism are needed now more than ever. On this episode of The City of God, we talk with Alex McFarland about the need for the Church to be engaged in our society as a whole.
- [Weaponization of the Justice Department with Steve Crampton | Ep. 64](https://institutefc.org/weaponization-of-the-justice-department-with-steve-crampton-ep-64/) - Following the reversal of Roe v. Wade, we have seen a dramatic increase in prosecutions of Christians and pro-life protesters, while attacks on churches and pregnancy centers have gone largely unpunished. Recently, a Tennessee jury convicted six pro-life protesters for protesting outside of an abortion clinic. They face over a decade in federal prison On
- [The Roots of Progressive Christianity | Ep. 65](https://institutefc.org/william-wolfe-root-progressive-christianity-ep-65/) - Today we often hear about "wokeism" making its way into the Church. Some denominations have even toyed with accepting gender ideology and critical race theory. But at the root of this infiltration is cultural Marxism. On this episode of The City of God, we talk with William Wolfe, the Executive Director for the Center for
- [Engaging in the Public Square with Ryan Helfenbein | Ep. 66](https://institutefc.org/engaging-in-the-public-square-with-ryan-helfenbein-ep-66/) - The statistics show us that many Christians in the next generation are growing up and walking away from the faith. We cannot sit idly by as America actively turns away from God and embraces evil. Christians are called to stand up and engage in the public square. What exactly does Christian cultural engagement look like.
- [The Deconstruction of the Christian Faith with Alisa Childers | Ep. 67](https://institutefc.org/the-deconstruction-of-the-christian-faith-with-alisa-childers-ep-67/) - The philosopher Jacques Derrida was the founder of “deconstruction,” a way of criticizing not only both literary and philosophical texts but also political institutions. Eventually this thinking was applied to religion. Today, there is even a battle over the word “deconstruction” in regards to the Christian faith. But simply put, deconstruction is a tearing down
- [Swimming Against the Cultural Current with Riley Gaines | Ep. 68](https://institutefc.org/swimming-against-the-cultural-current-with-riley-gaines-ep-68/) - On this episode of the City of God Podcast, join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Riley Gaines, a former competitive swimmer turned advocate for women's sports and single-sex spaces. Riley boasts a stellar athletic background as a 12x NCAA All-American and 5x SEC Champion. Riley now dedicates her efforts to create
- [Why Today's Youth Stray from a Biblical Worldview with George Barna | Ep. 69](https://institutefc.org/why-todays-youth-stray-from-a-biblical-worldview-with-george-barna-ep-69/) - Join us for an insightful discussion as we delve into the alarming trend of youth abandoning the Biblical worldview. Our guest, George Barna, founder of The Barna Group and director of research at Arizona Christian University, sheds light on the findings from his book "Raising Spiritual Champions," revealing that only 1% of 13-14-year-olds hold to
- [Spiritual But Not Religious: How New Age Beliefs are Infiltrating the Church with Alisa Childers](https://institutefc.org/spiritual-but-not-religious-how-new-age-beliefs-are-infiltrating-the-church-with-alisa-childers/) - To kick of the 2024 Kingdom Come Conference, apologist Alisa Childers discusses Spiritual But Not Religious: How New Age Beliefs are Infiltrating the Church. From the enneagram to manifestation, occult and new age spiritual practices easily masquerade under Christian language and many Christians are unwittingly engaged in anti-Christian spirituality. Childers helps us to spot these
- [Christianity vs. Cultural Marxism with Virgil Walker](https://institutefc.org/christianity-vs-cultural-marxism-with-virgil-walker/) - In our second session of the Kingdom Come Conference, Virgil Walker discusses Christianity vs. Cultural Marxism. The woke ideology of our day has a history and the primary source of the ideas tearing through Western civilization and our cultural institutions is Marxism. Walker discusses the history of cultural Marxism and describes why these unbiblical ideologies
- [The City of God Families Ep. 1 | All of Christ for All of Life](https://institutefc.org/the-city-of-god-families-ep-1-all-of-christ-for-all-of-life/) - The City of God Families is a short, monthly podcast for the entire family to listen to together with the hope that your family will continue the discussion where this podcast leaves off. On this episode, we discuss the theme "All of Christ for All of Life." We often fall into the trap of relegating
- [The City of God Families Ep. 2 | Patriotism](https://institutefc.org/the-city-of-god-families-ep-2-patriotism/) - On this episode, Pastor Rob Pacienza discusses American Patriotism and Kingdom Citizenship as we approach July 4th. Reflecting on biblical teachings, he explores loving our country while prioritizing our heavenly citizenship. This episode delves into America's Christian roots, urging gratitude for freedoms while critically evaluating national actions. Pastor Rob encourages prayer for the nation and
- [Christianity in a Gender Confused World with Rosaria Butterfield](https://institutefc.org/christianity-in-a-gender-confused-world-with-rosaria-butterfield/) - In our third session, Rosaria Butterfield discusses Side A and Side B Christianity, provides an overview of transgenderism and the attempts to legally redefine male and female, and the ways these ideologies are contrary to God's revelation and design. God's glorious design of his image bearers as male and female creatures is a good gift
- [Absolute Truth in the Age of Relativism with Sean McDowell](https://institutefc.org/absolute-truth-in-the-age-of-relativism-with-sean-mcdowell/) - In our fourth session of the Kingdom Come Conference, apologist Sean McDowell talks about the question of truth. In our day, everyone speaks about living "your truth" and speaking "your truth," but does truth work this way? Can we know the truth and what does Jesus say about the nature of truth?
- [Demonstrating the Faith in a Post-Christian Society with Tim Sansbury](https://institutefc.org/demonstrating-the-faith-in-a-post-christian-society-with-tim-sansbury/) - In our fifth session of the Kingdom Come Conference, Knox Theological Seminary professor and Provost Dr. Tim Sansbury discusses what it means to demonstrate the Christian faith in a post-Christian society. While past generations were concerned with doctrinal debates over the historicity of the resurrection, the infallibility of the Bible, etc., the battles of our
- [Do Not Conform: A Call to Stand with Al Mohler](https://institutefc.org/do-not-conform-a-call-to-stand-with-al-mohler/) - In our sixth session of the Kingdom Come Conference, Southern Seminary President Dr. Al Mohler discusses the need for holding strong in the face of forces that encourage Christians to capitulate, compromise, and silence themselves in the face of wickedness. Christians are not to be conformed to this world, but are to be transformed by
- [Navigating Cultural Threats from Left and Right with Brian Mattson](https://institutefc.org/navigating-cultural-threats-from-left-and-right-with-brian-mattson/) - In our first Kingdom Come Conference workshop on Faith in the Public Square, Westminster Seminary professor Dr. Brian Mattson discusses the reality that there is a ditch on either side of the road, threats to our culture and challenges to the biblical worldview from both the left and the right. In an age of political
- [Is There Really Only One Way? with K. Scott Oliphint](https://institutefc.org/is-there-really-only-one-way-with-k-scott-oliphint/) - In our second Kingdom Come Conference workshop on Faith in the Public Square, Westminster Seminary professor Dr. K. Scott Oliphint discusses the question of whether there can really only be one way to God. God has revealed himself to all people in nature such that no one has an excuse for denying him, and God has
- [Q&A - Sean McDowell - The Challenges of Cultural Engagement](https://institutefc.org/qa-sean-mcdowell-the-challenges-of-cultural-engagement/) - In the first Q&A session of the Kingdom Come Conference, Pastor Rob discusses the specific challenges that Christians face today in engaging culture and how to approach the culture in a productive way that leads people to Christ.
- [Q&A - Carol Swain - The Adversity of Diversity](https://institutefc.org/qa-carol-swain-the-adversity-of-diversity/) - In the second Q&A session of the Kingdom Come Conference, Pastor Rob speaks with Dr. Carol Swain about her upbringing and achievements, alongside the current cultural upheaval being caused by the Marxist thinking found in Critical Race Theory and DEI.
- [From Woke to Awake with Daniella Bloom | Ep. 70](https://institutefc.org/from-woke-to-awake-with-daniella-bloom-ep-70/) - On this episode of the City of God, we talk with Daniella Bloom, a free-thinking psychotherapist, speaker, and author. We discuss Daniella's personal transformation from self-proclaimed liberal to a voice for common sense and critical thinking. Hailing from the heart of Los Angeles, Daniella shares her story of awakening, driven by her proud Jewish-American identity
- [The History of Communism in Cuba with Stephen Mansfield | Ep. 71](https://institutefc.org/the-history-of-communism-in-cuba-with-stephen-mansfield-ep-71/) - Recently, we visited Havana Cuba, alongside the Institute for Faith and Culture, to build connections with local Churches in Cuba. While there, we sat down with Stephen Mansfield. Stephen is a historian, speaker, and best-selling author. He is also a board member and senior fellow of the Institute for Faith and Culture. On this episode,
- [The Life Cycle of Sin with Rosaria Butterfield | Ep. 72](https://institutefc.org/the-life-cycle-of-sin-with-rosaria-butterfield-ep-72/) - Join us for a profound exploration on sin's life cycle with best-selling author and speaker, Rosaria Butterfield. Also, Rosaria's insights shed light on the allure of homosexuality and the pressing need to confront sexual sins daily. With thought-provoking questions, we examine why homosexuality is often treated as a special disobedience category despite being listed alongside
- [Confronting Christian Persecution in America with Tony Perkins | Ep. 73](https://institutefc.org/confronting-christian-persecution-in-america-with-tony-perkins-ep-73/) - Join Rob Pacienza and Tony Perkins, President of the Family Research Council, as they dive into a crucial discussion on Christian persecution in America. From the surprising realities of church attacks to the disturbing double standard in justice, discover the pressing issues threatening religious freedom. Gain insights into the "Hostility Against Churches" report and explore
- [Exposing the Myth of Relativism with Dr. Jeff Myers | Ep. 74](https://institutefc.org/exposing-the-myth-of-relativism-with-dr-jeff-myers-ep-74/) - On this episode of City of God we are joined by Dr. Jeff Myers, President of Summit Ministries and esteemed expert in worldview and apologetics, as he confronts the crisis of Truth in today's society. From the erosion of absolute Truth to the challenges of imparting a biblical worldview to young people, explore the profound
- [Nurturing Faith and Family with Justin Whitmel Earley | Ep. 75](https://institutefc.org/nurturing-faith-and-family-with-justin-whitmel-earley-ep-75/) - On this episode of The City of God, we delve into crucial strategies for fortifying family faith amidst modern challenges. Join us as we talk with Justin Whitmel Earley, author of "Habits of the Household," as we explore how intentional gospel-centered habits can shape resilient Christian homes. From nurturing spiritual growth in children to fostering
- [Independence Day: A Nation Built on a Creed with Stephen Mansfield | Ep. 76](https://institutefc.org/independence-day-a-nation-built-on-a-creed-with-stephen-mansfield-ep-76/) - As we get ready to celebrate Independence Day, we talk with Stephen Mansfield, a historian, speaker, coach, and best-selling author. Join us this week as Stephen dives into the true history behind America's July 4th celebration, revealing lesser-known facts about its founding. Explore the profound influence of Christianity on America's inception, contrasting it with the
- [Defending Parental Rights with Brad Dacus | Ep. 77](https://institutefc.org/defending-parental-rights-with-brad-dacus-ep-77/) - On this episode of City of God we delve into crucial issues of parental rights and civil liberties with our esteemed guest, Brad Dacus, President of Pacific Justice Institute. Brad shares insights on the growing threats to parental rights, discussing challenges faced by parents today and potential future concerns. We explore how educational institutions across
- [Reclaiming Civil Rights Narratives with Ryan Bomberger | Ep. 78](https://institutefc.org/reclaiming-civil-rights-narratives-with-ryan-bomberger-ep-78/) - Join host Rob Pacienza as he sits down with Ryan Bomberger, co-founder of the Radiance Foundation and a prominent voice in the pro-life movement. They delve into Ryan's personal journey, from being one of 10 adopted children in a family of 15 to his pivotal role in advocating for human dignity. They discuss the critical
- [The Postmodern Paradox with Dr. Tim Sansbury | Ep. 79](https://institutefc.org/the-postmodern-paradox-with-dr-tim-sansbury-ep-79/) - In this episode, Dr. Tim Sansbury from Knox Theological Seminary dives deep into the complexities of postmodernism with Rob Pacienza and John Rabe. They explore the elusive nature of defining postmodernism, its critiques and contributions to thought, and its impact on society's structure and values. From rejecting modernity's truths to examining the clash between Biblical
- [How Outside Forces Target the American Church with Megan Basham | Ep. 80](https://institutefc.org/how-outside-forces-target-the-american-church-with-megan-basham-ep-80/) - Liberal theology is nothing new, but we’re seeing a rise in churches accepting radical ideas that are unbiblical. Well-funded forces from outside the church have been sowing seeds of discord from behind the scenes. On this episode of The City of God we talk with Megan Basham, a reporter for the Daily Wire and author
- [Transforming Lives with Jack Brewer | Ep. 81](https://institutefc.org/transforming-lives-with-jack-brewer-ep-81/) - On this episode of The City of God Podcast, hosts Rob Pacienza and John Rabe sit down with former NFL player and philanthropist Jack Brewer. As a new Senior Fellow at the Institute for Faith and Culture, Jack discusses his impactful work with the Jack Brewer Foundation and The Serving Institute in South Florida. They
- [How Modern Philosophies Challenge the Nature of God with Erwin Lutzer | Ep. 82](https://institutefc.org/how-modern-philosophies-challenge-the-nature-of-god-with-erwin-lutzer-ep-82/) - On this episode of the City of God Podcast, Rob Pacienza welcomes Dr. Erwin Lutzer to discuss his upcoming book, The Eclipse of God. They delve into the book's exploration of cultural shifts and philosophical challenges to God’s sovereignty. Dr. Lutzer addresses concerns about the perceived evolution of God’s nature from the Old Testament to
- [Why Christians Can’t Afford to Stay Silent with William J. Federer | Ep. 83](https://institutefc.org/why-christians-cant-afford-to-stay-silent-with-william-j-federer-ep-83/) - On this episode of City of God, we welcome author, speaker, and historian Bill Federer, whose latest book is titled “Silence Equals Consent - The Sin of Omission.” Join us as Bill explores how godly individuals have been persuaded to tolerate ungodliness, the Biblical influences on America's founders, and the impact on the U.S. Constitution.
- [The Role of Christians in Protecting Our Freedoms with Mat Staver | Ep. 84](https://institutefc.org/the-role-of-christians-in-protecting-our-freedoms-with-mat-staver-ep-84/) - On this episode, we sit down with Mat Staver, founder and Chairman of Liberty Counsel, to discuss the ongoing fight for life after the reversal of Roe. We explore the current legislative landscape, ongoing cases, and the critical role Christians play in defending the unborn. We also dive into gender issues, parental rights, and the
- [Legacy, Leadership, and the Future of Faith with Dr. Richard Phillips | Ep. 85](https://institutefc.org/legacy-leadership-and-the-future-of-faith-with-dr-richard-phillips-ep-85/) - Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Richard Phillips, Senior Minister of the historic Second Presbyterian Church in Greenville, South Carolina. Dr. Phillips reflects on the enduring legacies of Dr. D. James Kennedy and James Montgomery Boice, discusses the challenges facing the Church today, and shares his thoughts on the current state of the
- [Bringing the Mind of Christ into the Public Sphere with Aldo Leon | Ep. 86](https://institutefc.org/bringing-the-mind-of-christ-into-the-public-sphere-with-aldo-leon-ep-86/) - In this episode of The City of God, we sit down with Aldo Leon, pastor of Pinelands Presbyterian Church, to discuss “Christian nationalism”. We explore how many Christians are labeled as nationalists, often unfairly, while they seek to influence culture. Aldo dives into the importance of defining terms, examining history, and upholding Christ's kingship, showing
- [The Ideological Takeover of Universities with George Grant | Ep. 87](https://institutefc.org/the-ideological-takeover-of-universities-with-george-grant-ep-87/) - In this episode of the City of God, we welcome George Grant, Pastor of Parish Presbyterian Church and Director of King’s Meadow Study Center, to discuss the urgent need for Christian higher education. We explore the Church’s role in founding universities, the Christian roots of schools like Princeton and Harvard, and how they've drifted from
- [Training Tomorrow's Leaders with Ike Reeder | Ep. 88](https://institutefc.org/training-tomorrows-leaders-with-ike-reeder-ep-88/) - In this episode of The City of God Podcast, we’re joined by Ike Reeder, the President of Birmingham Theological Seminar. Ike reflects on the legacy of his father, the late Harry Reeder. They explore Harry’s profound impact as a pastor and his steadfast commitment to the sufficiency of God’s Word, comparing challenges faced by the
- [The Eternal Impact of Everyday Work with Jordan Raynor | Ep. 89](https://institutefc.org/the-eternal-impact-of-everyday-work-with-jordan-raynor-ep-89/) - In this episode of the City of God Podcast, we welcome Jordan Raynor, author of The Sacredness of Secular Work and a leading voice in the faith and work movement. Together, we explore the eternal value of everyday work, why many believers overlook its significance, and how our vocations can reveal God’s kingdom here on
- [Remembering the October 7th Attacks on Israel | Ep. 90](https://institutefc.org/remembering-the-october-7th-attacks-on-israel-ep-90/) - In this poignant episode of the City of God podcast, we reflect on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th attacks on Israel. Host Rob Pacienza is joined by an insightful panel: Shannon Harmeling, IDF reservist Doron Keidar, Sergeant Major Chaim Malespin, and Pastor Brad Carignan. Together, they discuss the ongoing impact of the conflict,
- [Pastoral Leadership and Why it Matters with Dr. John Currie | Ep. 91](https://institutefc.org/pastoral-leadership-and-why-it-matters-with-dr-john-currie-ep-91/) - In this episode of the City of God Podcast, Rob Pacienza and John Rabe talk with Dr. John Currie, Professor of Pastoral Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary. They explore Dr. Currie’s book, The Pastor as Leader, and discuss the challenges pastors face in connecting preaching with leadership. From the dangers of people-pleasing to the necessity
- [Confronting the Gender Madness with Christine Sneeringer | Ep. 92](https://institutefc.org/confronting-the-gender-madness-with-christine-sneeringer-ep-92/) - In this episode of The City of God podcast, Rob Pacienza and John Rabe welcome Christine Sneeringer, an author and leader in gender ministry, to discuss today’s most pressing gender issues. Christine shares her personal journey struggling with gender identity and her faith-based insights on why no one is born in the “wrong body.” The
- [Faith, Politics, and Public Life with Former Trump Aide William Russell | Ep. 93](https://institutefc.org/faith-politics-and-public-life-with-former-trump-aide-william-russell-ep-93/) - In this episode of the City of God podcast, hosts Rob Pacienza and John Rabe welcome William Russell, former Trump White House staffer and executive director of the Center for Christian Statesmanship. With the 2024 election just days away, Russell offers a behind-the-scenes perspective on his White House experience, the current Trump campaign, and the
- [Margaret Sanger’s Legacy: The Culture of Death in Today’s World with Seth Gruber | Ep. 94](https://institutefc.org/margaret-sangers-legacy-the-culture-of-death-in-todays-world-with-seth-gruber-ep-94/) - In this episode of City of God, Rob Pacienza and John Rabe welcome Seth Gruber, author, podcaster, and executive producer of The 1916 Project. Together, they explore the connections between Margaret Sanger, Planned Parenthood, and today’s cultural shifts. Seth explains how the ‘culture of death’ underpins many modern ideologies and calls the church to respond
- [Finding Purpose Beyond a Paycheck with David Bahnsen | Ep. 95](https://institutefc.org/finding-purpose-beyond-a-paycheck-with-david-bahnsen-ep-95/) - Join Rob Pacienza, John Rabe, and guest David Bahnsen as they discuss the meaning of work. How can Christians reframe work beyond routine and redefine it as part of God’s design? Discover why workaholism misses the mark and how to cultivate purpose, even if you're not in a dream job. David Bahnsen is the founder
- [Discipling the Next Generation in a Culture of Confusion with Rosaria Butterfield | Ep. 96](https://institutefc.org/discipling-the-next-generation-in-a-culture-of-confusion-with-rosaria-butterfield-ep-96/) - In this episode of City of God, host Rob Pacienza sits down with Rosaria Butterfield, acclaimed author and speaker, to explore the Biblical sexual ethic amid a shifting cultural landscape. Together, they discuss how Christians can navigate the challenges of modern sexual identity, avoiding common missteps while communicating the beauty of a Biblical worldview. They
- [The Beginning of Wisdom: America's Judeo-Christian Roots with Dr. Jerry Newcombe | Ep. 97](https://institutefc.org/the-beginning-of-wisdom-americas-judeo-christian-roots-with-dr-jerry-newcombe-ep-97/) - In this special episode of The City of God Podcast, Rob Pacienza welcomes Dr. Jerry Newcombe, Executive Director of the Providence Forum, to explore the Christian roots of American education. They discuss the documentary The Beginning of Wisdom, highlighting how Judeo-Christian principles shaped early schools, colleges, and national identity. In an era of cultural revisionism
- [Teaching Sound Doctrine to the Next Generation with Jason Helopoulos | Ep. 98](https://institutefc.org/teaching-sound-doctrine-to-the-next-generation-with-jason-helopoulos-ep-98/) - In this episode, Jason Helopoulos, senior pastor of University Reformed Church and author of Let the Children Worship and A Neglected Grace, dives into the significance of ministering to children at home and in the church. He discusses how teaching sound doctrine, prioritizing family worship, and biblical discipline shape the faith of the next generation.
- [The Erosion of Biblical Truth with Todd Pruitt | Ep. 99](https://institutefc.org/the-erosion-of-biblical-truth-with-todd-pruitt-ep-99/) - In this episode of City of God, Rob Pacienza is joined by Todd Pruitt, pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church and co-host of Mortification of Spin. Together, they discuss the ongoing battle over truth, comparing God’s unchanging truth to the subjective “my truth” dominating society. They explore how rejecting biblical truth leads to cultural decay, from
- [True, Good, & Beautiful | Ep. 100](https://institutefc.org/true-good-beautiful-ep-100/) - In this milestone 100th episode, John and Lauren break format to interview Rob about his groundbreaking book “True, Good, & Beautiful: God’s Design for a Flourishing World.” Together, they explore the chaos in today’s culture, the rejection of God’s design in key areas like gender, marriage, and government, and why reclaiming God’s blueprint is essential
- [Christmas Traditions Rooted in Faith with William J. Federer | Ep. 101](https://institutefc.org/christmas-traditions-rooted-in-faith-with-william-j-federer-ep-101/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wp89qqUC71o Join Rob Pacienza and John Rabe for a special Christmas episode of The City of God podcast! Renowned author and historian William J. Federer shares the fascinating history of St. Nicholas of Myra, an early Christian Bishop of Greek descent, and how Christmas traditions connect to Jesus. Explore the deeper meaning behind the Christmas
- [The City of God vs. The City of Man with Sam Kastensmidt | Ep. 102](https://institutefc.org/the-city-of-god-vs-the-city-of-man-with-sam-kastensmidt-ep-102/) - In this episode of The City of God Podcast, Rob Pacienza and Sam Kastensmidt explore the Biblical theme of two cities—the City of Man and the City of God—beginning in Genesis and unfolding throughout Scripture. They unpack the ethics of Babylon, the countercultural call of Abraham, and Jesus’ vision of His followers as a city
- [The Sufficiency and Clarity of Scripture with George Sayour | Ep. 103](https://institutefc.org/the-sufficiency-and-clarity-of-scripture-with-george-sayour-ep-103/) - In this episode of The City of God Podcast, Rob Pacienza and Pastor George Sayour explore how the church can faithfully engage with today’s cultural challenges. From the sufficiency of scripture to the Cultural Mandate, they discuss the role of pastors, congregations, and individual Christians in reflecting God’s design in a broken world. Pastor Sayour
- [The Crisis of the Next Generation with Laura Gallier | Ep. 104](https://institutefc.org/the-crisis-of-the-next-generation-with-laura-gallier-ep-104/) - In this episode of The City of God podcast, host Rob Pacienza welcomes author, speaker, and producer Laura Gallier for a powerful discussion on the challenges facing today’s youth. From the mental health crisis and the impact of social media to issues of gender, sexuality, and the breakdown of the family, Laura offers biblical insights
- [Side A and Side B Christianity with Dr. Jon Payne | Ep. 105](https://institutefc.org/side-a-and-side-b-christianity-with-dr-jon-payne-ep-105/) - In this episode of The City of God, Rob Pacienza sits down with Dr. Jon Payne, senior pastor of Christ Church Presbyterian in Charleston, South Carolina. Together, they unpack the theological tensions of Side A and Side B Christianity, explore what’s at stake for the Church, and discuss Dr. Payne’s call to humbly contend for
- [Decoding Hollywood’s Worldview with Leah Klett | Ep. 106](https://institutefc.org/decoding-hollywoods-worldview-with-leah-klett-ep-106/) - In this episode of City of God, host Rob Pacienza welcomes Leah Klett, reporter for The Christian Post and member of the Critics’ Choice Association. Together, they explore the changing entertainment landscape, Hollywood's core messages, and the growing challenges of oversexualization and gender ideology in media. Leah shares insights on navigating content as a young
- [When Your Faith Costs You Your Job with Coach Joe Kennedy | Ep. 107](https://institutefc.org/when-your-faith-costs-you-your-job-with-coach-joe-kennedy-ep-107/) - Coach Joe Kennedy joins The City of God to share his incredible journey from coaching high school football to fighting for religious freedom at the U.S. Supreme Court. Fired for praying on the field, Coach Kennedy refused to back down, taking his case all the way to the highest court in the land. In this
- [Young Men in Crisis with Mark Koch | Ep. 108](https://institutefc.org/young-men-in-crisis-with-mark-koch-ep-108/) - In this episode of The City of God, Rob Pacienza sits down with producer, author, and speaker Mark Koch to discuss God’s design for men in today’s world. With masculinity under attack, many young men feel lost and lack godly role models. Mark shares insights on biblical leadership, overcoming sin, and leading a family with
- [Biblical Authority in a Skeptical World with Sinclair Ferguson | Ep. 109](https://institutefc.org/biblical-authority-in-a-skeptical-world-with-sinclair-ferguson-ep-109/) - In this episode of the City of God Podcast, Rob Pacienza shares a powerful conversation from the City of God Archives. Recorded at the Kingdom Come Conference in Fort Lauderdale, this interview with renowned theologian Sinclair Ferguson explores the sufficiency of Scripture, the Church’s drift from evangelicalism, and the challenges of faith in a secular
- [Living in a Culture of Hate with Natasha Crain | Ep. 110](https://institutefc.org/living-in-a-culture-of-hate-with-natasha-crain-ep-110/) - In this episode of the City of God Podcast, Rob Pacienza sits down with author, speaker, and podcast host Natasha Crain to discuss her latest book When Culture Hates You. Together, they explore the tension between Christians and a culture that pressures believers to stay silent. From political engagement to defending biblical truth, they discuss
- [The American Miracle with Ralf Augstroze | Ep. 111](https://institutefc.org/the-american-miracle-with-ralf-augstroze-ep-111/) - In this episode of the City of God Podcast, Rob Pacienza sits down with Ralf Augstroze, executive producer of Heroic Pictures, to discuss The American Miracle – Our Nation is No Accident. Based on Michael Medved’s bestselling book, this film explores the key events that shaped America’s birth and rise. In anticipation of the 250th
- [Defending Religious Liberty in a Hostile World with Brad Dacus | Ep. 112](https://institutefc.org/defending-religious-liberty-in-a-hostile-world-with-brad-dacus-ep-112/) - Brad Dacus of the Pacific Justice Institute joins Rob Pacienza to discuss the increasing hostility towards religious freedoms. From defending churches and businesses to addressing growing concerns over Christian persecution, they dive deep into the legal and cultural battles facing believers today. Tune in to understand the alarming trends and challenges Christians face in today’s
- [The Sacred Duty of Raising Children with Abraham Hamilton | Ep. 113](https://institutefc.org/the-sacred-duty-of-raising-children-with-abraham-hamilton-ep-113/) - What role should government play in the upbringing of children? Rob Pacienza and Abraham Hamilton tackle the current state of parental rights, focusing on education and medical decisions. They discuss the potential for a federal "Parents’ Bill of Rights" and what it would look like to protect parents’ rights in today’s legal climate.
- [Faith, Freedom, and the Fight for America’s Soul with Col. Allen West | Ep. 114](https://institutefc.org/faith-freedom-and-the-fight-for-americas-soul-with-col-allen-west-ep-114/) - Join host Rob Pacienza on the City of God podcast as he welcomes Col. Allen West, former U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel and Tea Party-elected Congressman. Together, they explore the Tea Party’s 2010 surge, its lessons for today’s America First movement, and the Constitution’s role in modern politics. Col. West shares how faith and military service
- [The City of God Families Ep. 3 | Back to School](https://institutefc.org/the-city-of-god-families-ep-3-back-to-school/) - On this episode of The City of God Families, we discuss how to approach the new school year with a Christ-centered mindset. As summer ends, we explore how to trust God, work diligently, build strong relationships, and appreciate the wonders of His creation through learning. We also cover handling challenges with faith and being a
- [The City of God Families Ep. 4 | Peer Pressure](https://institutefc.org/the-city-of-god-families-ep-4-peer-pressure/) - The City of God Families is a short, monthly podcast for the entire family to listen to together with the hope that your family will continue the discussion where this podcast leaves off. On this episode, we discuss Peer Pressure. On this episode of The City of God Families Pastor Rob Pacienza addresses peer pressure,
- [City of God Families Ep.5  – The Election](https://institutefc.org/city-of-god-families-ep-5-the-election/) - In this special episode of City of God Families, we explore how to navigate the upcoming election with your family through a Biblical lens. Discover five key ways to engage, from understanding God’s role in government to making politics a meaningful way to reflect Christ’s kingdom. We’ll also discuss common myths about faith and politics,
- [The City of God Families Ep. 7 | Valentine’s Day](https://institutefc.org/the-city-of-god-families-ep-7-valentines-day/) - This Valentine’s Day, the world celebrates love with flowers and romance, but what does true love really look like? In this episode of The City of God Families, Pastor Rob Pacienza explores agape love—the selfless, sacrificial love of God. Through Scripture and practical insights, discover how Christian families can live out this love daily. Plus,

## White Papers

- [Five Reasons Christians Should Embrace Economic Freedom](https://institutefc.org/white_paper/five-reasons-christians-should-embrace-economic-freedom/) - Download and Print Full PDF ↓ What is economic freedom, and why do we need to embrace it? As Christians, we are called to be good stewards of the resources that God gives us. Stewardship is not just about tithing or caring for the earth; it is about every choice we make. It is
- [Examining Jesus’ Inclusion of Work Roles in his Parables](https://institutefc.org/white_paper/examining-jesus-inclusion-of-work-roles-in-his-parables/) - Download and print the full paper here ↓ What early life experiences could best prepare Jesus to be formed for his distinctive divine-human role as Messiah and Savior of the world? To set the context for this question, imagine being invited to observe that special planning session in eternity past, when our Trinitarian God
- [A Biblical Case for Limited Government](https://institutefc.org/white_paper/a-biblical-case-for-limited-government/) - Download Full Paper ↓ A few years ago on ABC’s The View, Star Parker and Michael Moore had an instructive exchange.[1] To justify state-regulated universal healthcare, Moore sought to marshal support from Jesus: Jesus claimed that if you care for the poorest among us, you do this to him. According to Moore, this proves that Jesus
- [Rediscover Faith & Work](https://institutefc.org/white_paper/rediscover-faith-work/) - ‘How Then Should We Work? Rediscovering the Biblical Doctrine of Work’ For many Christians, work often seems only a “means to an end.” Many today have bought into the notion that leisure is good and work is bad. Others have been misled by the sacred/secular distinction which teaches that only working in the church
- [A Biblical Theology of Human Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/white_paper/a-biblical-theology-of-human-flourishing/) - Download Full PDF ↓ The Universality of Human Flourishing In the early 21st century there are few ideas that can be identified as universal. Few ideas span multiple disciplines of human knowledge, from philosophy to economics, from religion to world health policies, from ethics to psychoanalysis, from medical practice to jurisprudence, from trade policies
- [The Rise of Religious Freedom and How It Shaped the Political Theology of the United States](https://institutefc.org/white_paper/the-rise-of-religious-freedom-and-how-it-shaped-the-political-theology-of-the-united-states/) - The idea of religious freedom did not rise out of Hinduism or Islam. It also did not originate from the enlightenment but instead arose from the teaching of the holy scriptures as understood throughout the history of the church. The seeds of religious freedom were sown by the early church fathers, grew in the rich
- [Do Good Workers Do “Good Works”? A Biblical Review Of The Meaning Of “Good Works” In New Testament Marketplace Contexts](https://institutefc.org/white_paper/do-good-workers-do-good-works-a-biblical-review-of-the-meaning-of-good-works-in-new-testament-marketplace-contexts/) - This paper is co-authored by Joshua M. Greever, PhD and David Kotter, PhD According to the Apostle Paul, Christians are “created in Christ Jesus for good works” (Ephesians 2:10). The church has historically understood such good works as acts of charity, volunteer service, mercy ministries, and working for nonprofit organizations. While the concept of good
- [Lending and Interest in the Old Testament](https://institutefc.org/white_paper/lending-and-interest-in-the-old-testament/) - Dr. Klaus Issler’s research on lending and interest was sponsored by the Institute for Faith, Work & Economics and published as, “Lending and Interest in the OT: Examining Three Interpretations to Explain the Deuteronomy 23:19-20 Distinction in Light of the Historical Usury Debate,” in the Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society, vol. 59, 2016, 761-89. Read the
- [Economic Freedom and the Path to Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/white_paper/economic-freedom-and-the-path-to-flourishing/) - This paper was co-authored by Anne Bradley, Ph.D. and Joseph Connors, Ph.D. Download the full paper here. “The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God.” –Psalm 92:12-13 The concept of shalom

## Categories

- [Politics](https://institutefc.org/category/politics/)
- [Christian Living](https://institutefc.org/category/christian-living/)
- [Bible & Theology](https://institutefc.org/category/bible-and-theology/)
- [Current Events](https://institutefc.org/category/current-events/)
- [Work & Economics](https://institutefc.org/category/work-and-economics/)
- [Uncategorized](https://institutefc.org/category/uncategorized/)
- [Featured Freedom](https://institutefc.org/category/featured-freedom/)
- [News](https://institutefc.org/category/news/)

## Tags

- [5 Minute Read](https://institutefc.org/tag/5-minute-read/)
- [7 Minute Read](https://institutefc.org/tag/7-minute-read/)
- [3 Minute Read](https://institutefc.org/tag/3-minute-read/)
- [6 Minute Read](https://institutefc.org/tag/6-minute-read/)
- [15 Minute Read](https://institutefc.org/tag/15-minute-read/)
- [4 MInute Read](https://institutefc.org/tag/4-minute-read/)
- [Long Read](https://institutefc.org/tag/long-read/)
- [justice](https://institutefc.org/tag/justice/)
- [12 Minute Read](https://institutefc.org/tag/12-minute-read/)
- [10 Minute Read](https://institutefc.org/tag/10-minute-read/)
- [8 Minute Read](https://institutefc.org/tag/8-minute-read/)
- [9 Minute Read](https://institutefc.org/tag/9-minute-read/)
- [24 Minute Read](https://institutefc.org/tag/24-minute-read/)
- [but if not](https://institutefc.org/tag/but-if-not/)
- [daniel](https://institutefc.org/tag/daniel/)
- [Shadrach](https://institutefc.org/tag/shadrach/)
- [Meshach](https://institutefc.org/tag/meshach/)
- [Abednego](https://institutefc.org/tag/abednego/)
- [Resisting](https://institutefc.org/tag/resisting/)
- [Cultural](https://institutefc.org/tag/cultural/)
- [Conformity](https://institutefc.org/tag/conformity/)
- [family](https://institutefc.org/tag/family/)
- [Biblical|Biblical theology|Christian|christian worldview|creativity|economics|faith|freedom|Institute for faith|purpose|work & economics](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblicalbiblical-theologychristianchristian-worldviewcreativityeconomicsfaithfreedominstitute-for-faithpurposework-economics/)
- [Christian|christian soteriology|christian theology|christianity|economics|faith|federal express|fedex|fedex logo|fred smith|institutes|paradigm shift|radically|religion|world](https://institutefc.org/tag/christianchristian-soteriologychristian-theologychristianityeconomicsfaithfederal-expressfedexfedex-logofred-smithinstitutesparadigm-shiftradicallyreligionworld/)
- [bible|bibles|Biblical|Christian|christopher wright|concept|fiction|gospel|grander|literature|lost|metanarratives|narrative|story|tell|the bible|the grand|told|vocation](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblebiblesbiblicalchristianchristopher-wrightconceptfictiongospelgranderliteraturelostmetanarrativesnarrativestorytellthe-biblethe-grandtoldvocation/)
- [blues brothers|evangelize|god|god's mission|gospel|meaning|missio dei|mission|missional christianity|missional living|missions|significance|vocational](https://institutefc.org/tag/blues-brothersevangelizegodgods-missiongospelmeaningmissio-deimissionmissional-christianitymissional-livingmissionssignificancevocational/)
- [bible|bibles|chapter|education|frameworks|god|gospel|grander|life|questions|reading|reading the bible|religion|shape|story|understand](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblebibleschaptereducationframeworksgodgospelgranderlifequestionsreadingreading-the-biblereligionshapestoryunderstand/)
- [adam|adam and eve|bible|book of genesis|business cards|christian philosophy|creation myths|creatively|curses|disposal|eve|fall of man|garden of eden|mandate|mankind|material|metaphors|rearrange|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/adamadam-and-evebiblebook-of-genesisbusiness-cardschristian-philosophycreation-mythscreativelycursesdisposalevefall-of-mangarden-of-edenmandatemankindmaterialmetaphorsrearrangework/)
- [babylon|book of daniel|christian eschatology|cities|cultural mandate|daniel|dominion|especially|fruitful|god bless|jeremiah|job|jobs|love justice|mercies|shalom|why](https://institutefc.org/tag/babylonbook-of-danielchristian-eschatologycitiescultural-mandatedanieldominionespeciallyfruitfulgod-blessjeremiahjobjobslove-justicemerciesshalomwhy/)
- [adam and eve|Christian|christianity|cultural mandate|Jesus|the Bride of Christ|the Great Commission|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/adam-and-evechristianchristianitycultural-mandatejesusthe-bride-of-christthe-great-commissionwork/)
- [adam and eve|Biblical Worldview|christianity|cultural mandate|dignity|economics|vocation](https://institutefc.org/tag/adam-and-evebiblical-worldviewchristianitycultural-mandatedignityeconomicsvocation/)
- [calling|christianity|Jesus|kingdom of god|ministry|theology|vocation|work|workplace](https://institutefc.org/tag/callingchristianityjesuskingdom-of-godministrytheologyvocationworkworkplace/)
- [bible|Biblical|calling|christian theology|Jesus|kingdom of god|ministry|religion|vocation|work|workplace](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblebiblicalcallingchristian-theologyjesuskingdom-of-godministryreligionvocationworkworkplace/)
- [bible|calling|christianity|church|church age|coming kingdom|gospel|Jesus|kingdom of god|ministry|theology|vocation](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblecallingchristianitychurchchurch-agecoming-kingdomgospeljesuskingdom-of-godministrytheologyvocation/)
- [calling|Christian soldier|church|church age|coming kingdom|enemy|Jesus|kingdom of god|ministry|vocation](https://institutefc.org/tag/callingchristian-soldierchurchchurch-agecoming-kingdomenemyjesuskingdom-of-godministryvocation/)
- [attack|Christian|enemy|Final Battle|heaven|hell|J.R.R Tolkien|Jesus Christ|kingdom of god|satan|The Lord of the Rings|vocation|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/attackchristianenemyfinal-battleheavenhellj-r-r-tolkienjesus-christkingdom-of-godsatanthe-lord-of-the-ringsvocationwork/)
- [Christian|christian theology|church age|kingdom of god|meaning|utopia|vocation|vocational|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/christianchristian-theologychurch-agekingdom-of-godmeaningutopiavocationvocationalwork/)
- [christianity|Earth|heaven|home|kingdom of god|theology|vocation|vocational|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/christianityearthheavenhomekingdom-of-godtheologyvocationvocationalwork/)
- [cultural mandate|fallen nature|garden of eden|gospel|Jesus|Jesus Christ|kingdom of god|Second Adam|sin|sinfulness|theology](https://institutefc.org/tag/cultural-mandatefallen-naturegarden-of-edengospeljesusjesus-christkingdom-of-godsecond-adamsinsinfulnesstheology/)
- [believers|Christian|christian theology|christianity|cultural mandate|unbelievers|vocation|vocational|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/believerschristianchristian-theologychristianitycultural-mandateunbelieversvocationvocationalwork/)
- [believers|christian theology|christianity|Common Grace|god|Holy Spirit|Jesus|justification|sanctification|Special Grace|theology](https://institutefc.org/tag/believerschristian-theologychristianitycommon-gracegodholy-spiritjesusjustificationsanctificationspecial-gracetheology/)
- [believers|Calvinism|christian theology|christianity|Common Grace|god|grace|saving grace|Special Grace|theology|total depravity|unbelievers|vocation|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/believerscalvinismchristian-theologychristianitycommon-gracegodgracesaving-gracespecial-gracetheologytotal-depravityunbelieversvocationwork/)
- [believers|Calvinism|christian theology|christianity|Common Grace|god|grace|saving grace|sin|Special Grace|theology|total depravity|unbelievers|vocation](https://institutefc.org/tag/believerscalvinismchristian-theologychristianitycommon-gracegodgracesaving-gracesinspecial-gracetheologytotal-depravityunbelieversvocation/)
- [believers|christianity|common goal|common good|Common Grace|goals|unbelievers|vocation|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/believerschristianitycommon-goalcommon-goodcommon-gracegoalsunbelieversvocationwork/)
- [believers|christianity|common goal|common good|Common Grace|goals|god|kingdom of god|theology|unbelievers|vocation|vocational|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/believerschristianitycommon-goalcommon-goodcommon-gracegoalsgodkingdom-of-godtheologyunbelieversvocationvocationalwork/)
- [biblical understanding|Christian|christian philosophy|christian theology|christianity|christians|cultural mandate|culture|faith|Faith and Work|god|lies|scripture|success|vocation|vocational|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblical-understandingchristianchristian-philosophychristian-theologychristianitychristianscultural-mandateculturefaithfaith-and-workgodliesscripturesuccessvocationvocationalwork/)
- [vocation](https://institutefc.org/tag/vocation/)
- [bible|calling|Christian|christianity|common good|cultural mandate|god|Jesus|Joy|meaning|parable of the talents|purpose|success|talents|vocation|vocational|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblecallingchristianchristianitycommon-goodcultural-mandategodjesusjoymeaningparable-of-the-talentspurposesuccesstalentsvocationvocationalwork/)
- [Christian|christianity|common good|Faithful|god|Good|meaning|parable of the talents|servants|theology|vocation|vocational|work|work ethic](https://institutefc.org/tag/christianchristianitycommon-goodfaithfulgodgoodmeaningparable-of-the-talentsservantstheologyvocationvocationalworkwork-ethic/)
- [calling|Christian|christian philosophy|christian theology|christianity|early church|Eusebius of Caesarea|holiness|holy|meaning|purpose|Tertullian|theology|value|vocation|vocational|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/callingchristianchristian-philosophychristian-theologychristianityearly-churcheusebius-of-caesareaholinessholymeaningpurposetertulliantheologyvaluevocationvocationalwork/)
- [calling|christian philosophy|christian theology|gospel|kingdom of god|Middle Ages|ministry|ministry work|monastery|monks|priesthood|professional ministry|vocation|vocational|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/callingchristian-philosophychristian-theologygospelkingdom-of-godmiddle-agesministryministry-workmonasterymonkspriesthoodprofessional-ministryvocationvocationalwork/)
- [believers|calling|Christian|christian philosophy|christian theology|christianity|church|discipleship|employment|faith|Harvard Business School|job|purpose|spiritual|theology|vocation|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/believerscallingchristianchristian-philosophychristian-theologychristianitychurchdiscipleshipemploymentfaithharvard-business-schooljobpurposespiritualtheologyvocationwork/)
- [calling|Catholic|Christian|christian philosophy|christian theology|christianity|Counterfeit Gods|distortion|protestant|theology|Tim Keller|understanding|vocation|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/callingcatholicchristianchristian-philosophychristian-theologychristianitycounterfeit-godsdistortionprotestanttheologytim-kellerunderstandingvocationwork/)
- [calling|Christian|christian theology|christianity|church|employment|job|kingdom of god|meaning|purpose|vocation|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/callingchristianchristian-theologychristianitychurchemploymentjobkingdom-of-godmeaningpurposevocationwork/)
- [believers|calling|Christian|christian theology|christianity|church|community|employment|family|job|meaning|Tim Keller|vocation|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/believerscallingchristianchristian-theologychristianitychurchcommunityemploymentfamilyjobmeaningtim-kellervocationwork/)
- [calling|church|discipleship|employment|fulfillment|job|knowledge|Martin Luther|reformation|spiritual|understanding|vocation|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/callingchurchdiscipleshipemploymentfulfillmentjobknowledgemartin-lutherreformationspiritualunderstandingvocationwork/)
- [Bill Crouse|calling|Christian|christianity|church|community|cultural mandate|culture|Dietrich Bonhoeffer|employment|family|job|meaning|sacrifice|servant|servant leadership|vocation|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/bill-crousecallingchristianchristianitychurchcommunitycultural-mandateculturedietrich-bonhoefferemploymentfamilyjobmeaningsacrificeservantservant-leadershipvocationwork/)
- [career|Christian|christianity|death|faith|gospel|Jesus Christ|job|John Calvin|sacrifice|school|vocation|work](https://institutefc.org/tag/careerchristianchristianitydeathfaithgospeljesus-christjobjohn-calvinsacrificeschoolvocationwork/)
- [calling|city|eternal city|existence|jeremiah|prophet|reweave|shalom|tent city|the eternal citcornelius plantinga|vision](https://institutefc.org/tag/callingcityeternal-cityexistencejeremiahprophetreweaveshalomtent-citythe-eternal-citcornelius-plantingavision/)
- [constantly](https://institutefc.org/tag/constantly/)
- [economics](https://institutefc.org/tag/economics/)
- [existence](https://institutefc.org/tag/existence/)
- [fallen](https://institutefc.org/tag/fallen/)
- [knowledge](https://institutefc.org/tag/knowledge/)
- [navigate](https://institutefc.org/tag/navigate/)
- [navigating](https://institutefc.org/tag/navigating/)
- [risk](https://institutefc.org/tag/risk/)
- [scarcity](https://institutefc.org/tag/scarcity/)
- [tool](https://institutefc.org/tag/tool/)
- [tools](https://institutefc.org/tag/tools/)
- [world](https://institutefc.org/tag/world/)
- [313mig](https://institutefc.org/tag/313mig/)
- [business](https://institutefc.org/tag/business/)
- [cost accounting](https://institutefc.org/tag/cost-accounting/)
- [costing](https://institutefc.org/tag/costing/)
- [energy](https://institutefc.org/tag/energy/)
- [glory](https://institutefc.org/tag/glory/)
- [god](https://institutefc.org/tag/god/)
- [lunch](https://institutefc.org/tag/lunch/)
- [matters](https://institutefc.org/tag/matters/)
- [microeconomics](https://institutefc.org/tag/microeconomics/)
- [notions](https://institutefc.org/tag/notions/)
- [opportunities](https://institutefc.org/tag/opportunities/)
- [opportunity cost](https://institutefc.org/tag/opportunity-cost/)
- [opportunity costs](https://institutefc.org/tag/opportunity-costs/)
- [price](https://institutefc.org/tag/price/)
- [starbucks](https://institutefc.org/tag/starbucks/)
- [there ain't no such thing as a free lunch](https://institutefc.org/tag/there-aint-no-such-thing-as-a-free-lunch/)
- [truly](https://institutefc.org/tag/truly/)
- [understand](https://institutefc.org/tag/understand/)
- [why](https://institutefc.org/tag/why/)
- [stewardship](https://institutefc.org/tag/stewardship/)
- [Thomas Sowell](https://institutefc.org/tag/thomas-sowell/)
- [choices](https://institutefc.org/tag/choices/)
- [Decision-Making](https://institutefc.org/tag/decision-making/)
- [Margin](https://institutefc.org/tag/margin/)
- [Marginal Analysis](https://institutefc.org/tag/marginal-analysis/)
- [understanding economics](https://institutefc.org/tag/understanding-economics/)
- [work](https://institutefc.org/tag/work/)
- [individuals](https://institutefc.org/tag/individuals/)
- [Jay Richards](https://institutefc.org/tag/jay-richards/)
- [Ludwig von Mises](https://institutefc.org/tag/ludwig-von-mises/)
- [subjective value](https://institutefc.org/tag/subjective-value/)
- [Christian](https://institutefc.org/tag/christian/)
- [F.A. Hayek](https://institutefc.org/tag/f-a-hayek/)
- [free market economics](https://institutefc.org/tag/free-market-economics/)
- [Hayek](https://institutefc.org/tag/hayek/)
- [knowledge problem](https://institutefc.org/tag/knowledge-problem/)
- [markets](https://institutefc.org/tag/markets/)
- [christianity](https://institutefc.org/tag/christianity/)
- [christians](https://institutefc.org/tag/christians/)
- [free markets](https://institutefc.org/tag/free-markets/)
- [Prices](https://institutefc.org/tag/prices/)
- [signalling](https://institutefc.org/tag/signalling/)
- [signals](https://institutefc.org/tag/signals/)
- [common good](https://institutefc.org/tag/common-good/)
- [creation](https://institutefc.org/tag/creation/)
- [exchange of goods](https://institutefc.org/tag/exchange-of-goods/)
- [market process](https://institutefc.org/tag/market-process/)
- [miracles](https://institutefc.org/tag/miracles/)
- [miraculous](https://institutefc.org/tag/miraculous/)
- [understanding](https://institutefc.org/tag/understanding/)
- [vocational](https://institutefc.org/tag/vocational/)
- [absolute advantage](https://institutefc.org/tag/absolute-advantage/)
- [calling](https://institutefc.org/tag/calling/)
- [comparative advantage](https://institutefc.org/tag/comparative-advantage/)
- [faith](https://institutefc.org/tag/faith/)
- [benefits](https://institutefc.org/tag/benefits/)
- [skills](https://institutefc.org/tag/skills/)
- [trade](https://institutefc.org/tag/trade/)
- [Chuck Colson](https://institutefc.org/tag/chuck-colson/)
- [integrate faith and life](https://institutefc.org/tag/integrate-faith-and-life/)
- [Kingdom of Christ](https://institutefc.org/tag/kingdom-of-christ/)
- [passing](https://institutefc.org/tag/passing/)
- [Prison Fellowship Ministires](https://institutefc.org/tag/prison-fellowship-ministires/)
- [Art Carden](https://institutefc.org/tag/art-carden/)
- [dynamic](https://institutefc.org/tag/dynamic/)
- [economic growth](https://institutefc.org/tag/economic-growth/)
- [economic understanding](https://institutefc.org/tag/economic-understanding/)
- [meaning](https://institutefc.org/tag/meaning/)
- [pie](https://institutefc.org/tag/pie/)
- [ascension](https://institutefc.org/tag/ascension/)
- [believers](https://institutefc.org/tag/believers/)
- [christian theology](https://institutefc.org/tag/christian-theology/)
- [early church](https://institutefc.org/tag/early-church/)
- [Easter](https://institutefc.org/tag/easter/)
- [Jesus](https://institutefc.org/tag/jesus/)
- [Jesus Christ](https://institutefc.org/tag/jesus-christ/)
- [theology](https://institutefc.org/tag/theology/)
- [C.S. Lewis](https://institutefc.org/tag/c-s-lewis/)
- [gospel](https://institutefc.org/tag/gospel/)
- [heaven](https://institutefc.org/tag/heaven/)
- [kingdom of god](https://institutefc.org/tag/kingdom-of-god/)
- [location](https://institutefc.org/tag/location/)
- [Lord](https://institutefc.org/tag/lord/)
- [lordship](https://institutefc.org/tag/lordship/)
- [bible](https://institutefc.org/tag/bible/)
- [Biblical](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblical/)
- [christ](https://institutefc.org/tag/christ/)
- [commission](https://institutefc.org/tag/commission/)
- [Holy Spirit](https://institutefc.org/tag/holy-spirit/)
- [job](https://institutefc.org/tag/job/)
- [job site](https://institutefc.org/tag/job-site/)
- [ministry](https://institutefc.org/tag/ministry/)
- [vocational calling](https://institutefc.org/tag/vocational-calling/)
- [christian philosophy](https://institutefc.org/tag/christian-philosophy/)
- [past](https://institutefc.org/tag/past/)
- [present](https://institutefc.org/tag/present/)
- [church plant](https://institutefc.org/tag/church-plant/)
- [consequences](https://institutefc.org/tag/consequences/)
- [Frederic Bastiat](https://institutefc.org/tag/frederic-bastiat/)
- [Friedrich August von Hayek](https://institutefc.org/tag/friedrich-august-von-hayek/)
- [legislation](https://institutefc.org/tag/legislation/)
- [regulation](https://institutefc.org/tag/regulation/)
- [results](https://institutefc.org/tag/results/)
- [Unintended consequences](https://institutefc.org/tag/unintended-consequences/)
- [free market](https://institutefc.org/tag/free-market/)
- [Henry Hazlitt](https://institutefc.org/tag/henry-hazlitt/)
- [price control](https://institutefc.org/tag/price-control/)
- [private property](https://institutefc.org/tag/private-property/)
- [property rights](https://institutefc.org/tag/property-rights/)
- [rent control](https://institutefc.org/tag/rent-control/)
- [Heritage Foundation](https://institutefc.org/tag/heritage-foundation/)
- [JP Morgan](https://institutefc.org/tag/jp-morgan/)
- [JP Morgan Chase & Co.](https://institutefc.org/tag/jp-morgan-chase-co/)
- [lessons](https://institutefc.org/tag/lessons/)
- [President Obama](https://institutefc.org/tag/president-obama/)
- [riskiness](https://institutefc.org/tag/riskiness/)
- [Family Structure](https://institutefc.org/tag/family-structure/)
- [Gini coefficient](https://institutefc.org/tag/gini-coefficient/)
- [globalization](https://institutefc.org/tag/globalization/)
- [Growing Markets](https://institutefc.org/tag/growing-markets/)
- [human condition](https://institutefc.org/tag/human-condition/)
- [Immigration](https://institutefc.org/tag/immigration/)
- [income inequality](https://institutefc.org/tag/income-inequality/)
- [Income Mobility](https://institutefc.org/tag/income-mobility/)
- [Technology](https://institutefc.org/tag/technology/)
- [The World Factbook](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-world-factbook/)
- [market exchange](https://institutefc.org/tag/market-exchange/)
- [Simon Kuznets](https://institutefc.org/tag/simon-kuznets/)
- [zero-sum game](https://institutefc.org/tag/zero-sum-game/)
- [oppression](https://institutefc.org/tag/oppression/)
- [poor](https://institutefc.org/tag/poor/)
- [poverty](https://institutefc.org/tag/poverty/)
- [Psalms](https://institutefc.org/tag/psalms/)
- [Rich](https://institutefc.org/tag/rich/)
- [righteousness](https://institutefc.org/tag/righteousness/)
- [virtue](https://institutefc.org/tag/virtue/)
- [wealth](https://institutefc.org/tag/wealth/)
- [Catholicism](https://institutefc.org/tag/catholicism/)
- [government](https://institutefc.org/tag/government/)
- [new deal](https://institutefc.org/tag/new-deal/)
- [welfare programs](https://institutefc.org/tag/welfare-programs/)
- [Acts 4](https://institutefc.org/tag/acts-4/)
- [Ched Myers](https://institutefc.org/tag/ched-myers/)
- [church](https://institutefc.org/tag/church/)
- [Jim Wallis](https://institutefc.org/tag/jim-wallis/)
- [local church](https://institutefc.org/tag/local-church/)
- [parable of the talents](https://institutefc.org/tag/parable-of-the-talents/)
- [progressive evangelicals](https://institutefc.org/tag/progressive-evangelicals/)
- [rich young ruler](https://institutefc.org/tag/rich-young-ruler/)
- [Ron Sider](https://institutefc.org/tag/ron-sider/)
- [Shane Claiborne](https://institutefc.org/tag/shane-claiborne/)
- [welfare](https://institutefc.org/tag/welfare/)
- [earned income](https://institutefc.org/tag/earned-income/)
- [redistribution](https://institutefc.org/tag/redistribution/)
- [state](https://institutefc.org/tag/state/)
- [widows](https://institutefc.org/tag/widows/)
- [Catholic](https://institutefc.org/tag/catholic/)
- [entrepreneurship](https://institutefc.org/tag/entrepreneurship/)
- [innovation](https://institutefc.org/tag/innovation/)
- [invention](https://institutefc.org/tag/invention/)
- [monasteries](https://institutefc.org/tag/monasteries/)
- [monks](https://institutefc.org/tag/monks/)
- [giving](https://institutefc.org/tag/giving/)
- [moral proximity](https://institutefc.org/tag/moral-proximity/)
- [subsidiary](https://institutefc.org/tag/subsidiary/)
- [biblical understanding](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblical-understanding/)
- [Billy Graham](https://institutefc.org/tag/billy-graham/)
- [free exchange](https://institutefc.org/tag/free-exchange/)
- [free will](https://institutefc.org/tag/free-will/)
- [freedom](https://institutefc.org/tag/freedom/)
- [gifts](https://institutefc.org/tag/gifts/)
- [market economy](https://institutefc.org/tag/market-economy/)
- [scripture](https://institutefc.org/tag/scripture/)
- [studying scripture](https://institutefc.org/tag/studying-scripture/)
- [talents](https://institutefc.org/tag/talents/)
- [Tim Tebow](https://institutefc.org/tag/tim-tebow/)
- [career](https://institutefc.org/tag/career/)
- [big question](https://institutefc.org/tag/big-question/)
- [question](https://institutefc.org/tag/question/)
- [capitalism](https://institutefc.org/tag/capitalism/)
- [dignity](https://institutefc.org/tag/dignity/)
- [opportunity](https://institutefc.org/tag/opportunity/)
- [Walmart](https://institutefc.org/tag/walmart/)
- [biblical doctrine of work](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblical-doctrine-of-work/)
- [Bill Gates](https://institutefc.org/tag/bill-gates/)
- [computer engineering](https://institutefc.org/tag/computer-engineering/)
- [methodological individualism](https://institutefc.org/tag/methodological-individualism/)
- [nursing](https://institutefc.org/tag/nursing/)
- [person choices](https://institutefc.org/tag/person-choices/)
- [Steve Jobs](https://institutefc.org/tag/steve-jobs/)
- [Cronyism as Theft](https://institutefc.org/tag/cronyism-as-theft/)
- [Gifts of the Spirit](https://institutefc.org/tag/gifts-of-the-spirit/)
- [The Holy Spirit](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-holy-spirit/)
- [cultural mandate](https://institutefc.org/tag/cultural-mandate/)
- [culture](https://institutefc.org/tag/culture/)
- [Adventure](https://institutefc.org/tag/adventure/)
- [Biblical theology](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblical-theology/)
- [Biblical Theology of Work](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblical-theology-of-work/)
- [Expeditions](https://institutefc.org/tag/expeditions/)
- [Faith and Work](https://institutefc.org/tag/faith-and-work/)
- [Guide](https://institutefc.org/tag/guide/)
- [Integrating Faith and Work](https://institutefc.org/tag/integrating-faith-and-work/)
- [Lester Zook](https://institutefc.org/tag/lester-zook/)
- [Mountain climbing](https://institutefc.org/tag/mountain-climbing/)
- [Mountain Expedition](https://institutefc.org/tag/mountain-expedition/)
- [Mountain Guide](https://institutefc.org/tag/mountain-guide/)
- [purpose](https://institutefc.org/tag/purpose/)
- [Theology of Work](https://institutefc.org/tag/theology-of-work/)
- [Tour Guide](https://institutefc.org/tag/tour-guide/)
- [Wilderness Guide](https://institutefc.org/tag/wilderness-guide/)
- [WildGuyde](https://institutefc.org/tag/wildguyde/)
- [Zook](https://institutefc.org/tag/zook/)
- [Corruption](https://institutefc.org/tag/corruption/)
- [Entrepreneurs](https://institutefc.org/tag/entrepreneurs/)
- [Greed](https://institutefc.org/tag/greed/)
- [Power](https://institutefc.org/tag/power/)
- [Profit](https://institutefc.org/tag/profit/)
- [Profit Maximization](https://institutefc.org/tag/profit-maximization/)
- [Profits](https://institutefc.org/tag/profits/)
- [Scarce Resources](https://institutefc.org/tag/scarce-resources/)
- [Service](https://institutefc.org/tag/service/)
- [The Cultural Mandate](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-cultural-mandate/)
- [The Poor](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-poor/)
- [For Our Work](https://institutefc.org/tag/for-our-work/)
- [Gifts Of The Holy Spirit](https://institutefc.org/tag/gifts-of-the-holy-spirit/)
- [holy](https://institutefc.org/tag/holy/)
- [Implications](https://institutefc.org/tag/implications/)
- [Leadership](https://institutefc.org/tag/leadership/)
- [new testament](https://institutefc.org/tag/new-testament/)
- [Old and New Testaments](https://institutefc.org/tag/old-and-new-testaments/)
- [Old Testament](https://institutefc.org/tag/old-testament/)
- [Speech](https://institutefc.org/tag/speech/)
- [Spiritual Gifts](https://institutefc.org/tag/spiritual-gifts/)
- [Strength](https://institutefc.org/tag/strength/)
- [The Gifts Of The Holy Spirit](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-gifts-of-the-holy-spirit/)
- [The Holy Spirit Matters](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-holy-spirit-matters/)
- [The New Testament](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-new-testament/)
- [The Old Testament](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-old-testament/)
- [Work Of The Holy Spirit](https://institutefc.org/tag/work-of-the-holy-spirit/)
- [Analysis](https://institutefc.org/tag/analysis/)
- [Apologetics](https://institutefc.org/tag/apologetics/)
- [Arithmetic](https://institutefc.org/tag/arithmetic/)
- [Belief](https://institutefc.org/tag/belief/)
- [Coalition Blog](https://institutefc.org/tag/coalition-blog/)
- [Glory Of God](https://institutefc.org/tag/glory-of-god/)
- [Gospel Coalition](https://institutefc.org/tag/gospel-coalition/)
- [image of god](https://institutefc.org/tag/image-of-god/)
- [Imagination](https://institutefc.org/tag/imagination/)
- [Memo](https://institutefc.org/tag/memo/)
- [Midweek](https://institutefc.org/tag/midweek/)
- [Midweek Memo](https://institutefc.org/tag/midweek-memo/)
- [Moral](https://institutefc.org/tag/moral/)
- [Moral Imagination](https://institutefc.org/tag/moral-imagination/)
- [Morality](https://institutefc.org/tag/morality/)
- [News](https://institutefc.org/tag/news/)
- [Opinion](https://institutefc.org/tag/opinion/)
- [Politics](https://institutefc.org/tag/politics/)
- [Rap](https://institutefc.org/tag/rap/)
- [Rap Music](https://institutefc.org/tag/rap-music/)
- [Relevant](https://institutefc.org/tag/relevant/)
- [Republicans](https://institutefc.org/tag/republicans/)
- [Truth](https://institutefc.org/tag/truth/)
- [Vocation Groups](https://institutefc.org/tag/vocation-groups/)
- [Aesthetics](https://institutefc.org/tag/aesthetics/)
- [Beauty](https://institutefc.org/tag/beauty/)
- [Cause](https://institutefc.org/tag/cause/)
- [Consumerism](https://institutefc.org/tag/consumerism/)
- [Consumerist Culture](https://institutefc.org/tag/consumerist-culture/)
- [Consumption](https://institutefc.org/tag/consumption/)
- [Enterprise](https://institutefc.org/tag/enterprise/)
- [Enterprise Direct](https://institutefc.org/tag/enterprise-direct/)
- [Free Enterprise](https://institutefc.org/tag/free-enterprise/)
- [Gluttony](https://institutefc.org/tag/gluttony/)
- [Human Nature](https://institutefc.org/tag/human-nature/)
- [material](https://institutefc.org/tag/material/)
- [Materialism](https://institutefc.org/tag/materialism/)
- [Materialist](https://institutefc.org/tag/materialist/)
- [Materialist Worldview](https://institutefc.org/tag/materialist-worldview/)
- [Money](https://institutefc.org/tag/money/)
- [Outlook](https://institutefc.org/tag/outlook/)
- [Reality](https://institutefc.org/tag/reality/)
- [sin](https://institutefc.org/tag/sin/)
- [Ugliness](https://institutefc.org/tag/ugliness/)
- [Ugly](https://institutefc.org/tag/ugly/)
- [worldview](https://institutefc.org/tag/worldview/)
- [A Christian](https://institutefc.org/tag/a-christian/)
- [A Christian Perspective](https://institutefc.org/tag/a-christian-perspective/)
- [Biblical Perspective](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblical-perspective/)
- [Christian Perspective](https://institutefc.org/tag/christian-perspective/)
- [Circle K](https://institutefc.org/tag/circle-k/)
- [Communities](https://institutefc.org/tag/communities/)
- [community](https://institutefc.org/tag/community/)
- [Convenience Store](https://institutefc.org/tag/convenience-store/)
- [Creative](https://institutefc.org/tag/creative/)
- [Creative Destruction](https://institutefc.org/tag/creative-destruction/)
- [creativity](https://institutefc.org/tag/creativity/)
- [Employees](https://institutefc.org/tag/employees/)
- [Families](https://institutefc.org/tag/families/)
- [Flourish](https://institutefc.org/tag/flourish/)
- [Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/tag/flourishing/)
- [Handy Andy](https://institutefc.org/tag/handy-andy/)
- [Human Beings](https://institutefc.org/tag/human-beings/)
- [impact](https://institutefc.org/tag/impact/)
- [Individual](https://institutefc.org/tag/individual/)
- [Investors](https://institutefc.org/tag/investors/)
- [jobs](https://institutefc.org/tag/jobs/)
- [Message to Business](https://institutefc.org/tag/message-to-business/)
- [Perspective](https://institutefc.org/tag/perspective/)
- [Profitability](https://institutefc.org/tag/profitability/)
- [Protest](https://institutefc.org/tag/protest/)
- [Rally](https://institutefc.org/tag/rally/)
- [Sending A Message](https://institutefc.org/tag/sending-a-message/)
- [Speculation](https://institutefc.org/tag/speculation/)
- [Students](https://institutefc.org/tag/students/)
- [Taylor University](https://institutefc.org/tag/taylor-university/)
- [value](https://institutefc.org/tag/value/)
- [A Christian Economist](https://institutefc.org/tag/a-christian-economist/)
- [A Christian Economist's Perspective](https://institutefc.org/tag/a-christian-economists-perspective/)
- [An Economist's Perspective](https://institutefc.org/tag/an-economists-perspective/)
- [Change](https://institutefc.org/tag/change/)
- [Christian Economist](https://institutefc.org/tag/christian-economist/)
- [Economic Life](https://institutefc.org/tag/economic-life/)
- [Economic Principles](https://institutefc.org/tag/economic-principles/)
- [Efficient Use of Resources](https://institutefc.org/tag/efficient-use-of-resources/)
- [God's Economic Principles](https://institutefc.org/tag/gods-economic-principles/)
- [God's Economy](https://institutefc.org/tag/gods-economy/)
- [Growth](https://institutefc.org/tag/growth/)
- [Principles](https://institutefc.org/tag/principles/)
- [Resources](https://institutefc.org/tag/resources/)
- [Define Resources](https://institutefc.org/tag/define-resources/)
- [Destroying The Planet](https://institutefc.org/tag/destroying-the-planet/)
- [Eight Most Common Myths](https://institutefc.org/tag/eight-most-common-myths/)
- [Environment](https://institutefc.org/tag/environment/)
- [Human](https://institutefc.org/tag/human/)
- [Human Creativity](https://institutefc.org/tag/human-creativity/)
- [Human Population](https://institutefc.org/tag/human-population/)
- [Human Race](https://institutefc.org/tag/human-race/)
- [Humanity](https://institutefc.org/tag/humanity/)
- [Myths](https://institutefc.org/tag/myths/)
- [Planet](https://institutefc.org/tag/planet/)
- [The Planet](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-planet/)
- [Ultimate Resource](https://institutefc.org/tag/ultimate-resource/)
- [View Look](https://institutefc.org/tag/view-look/)
- [Chris Horst](https://institutefc.org/tag/chris-horst/)
- [Christianity Today](https://institutefc.org/tag/christianity-today/)
- [Colorado](https://institutefc.org/tag/colorado/)
- [Job You Don't Love](https://institutefc.org/tag/job-you-dont-love/)
- [Joy](https://institutefc.org/tag/joy/)
- [Self-Interest](https://institutefc.org/tag/self-interest/)
- [Selfishness](https://institutefc.org/tag/selfishness/)
- [The Gospel](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-gospel/)
- [The Gospel Coalition](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-gospel-coalition/)
- [The High Calling](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-high-calling/)
- [An Example](https://institutefc.org/tag/an-example/)
- [Creation of Wealth](https://institutefc.org/tag/creation-of-wealth/)
- [genesis](https://institutefc.org/tag/genesis/)
- [God's](https://institutefc.org/tag/gods/)
- [God's Providence](https://institutefc.org/tag/gods-providence/)
- [Immaterial](https://institutefc.org/tag/immaterial/)
- [Intangible](https://institutefc.org/tag/intangible/)
- [Joseph](https://institutefc.org/tag/joseph/)
- [Market Order](https://institutefc.org/tag/market-order/)
- [Nobel-Prize](https://institutefc.org/tag/nobel-prize/)
- [Nobel-Prize Winning Economist](https://institutefc.org/tag/nobel-prize-winning-economist/)
- [Poverty Alleviation](https://institutefc.org/tag/poverty-alleviation/)
- [Providence](https://institutefc.org/tag/providence/)
- [spiritual](https://institutefc.org/tag/spiritual/)
- [The Market](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-market/)
- [Thomas Aquinas](https://institutefc.org/tag/thomas-aquinas/)
- [Wealth Creation](https://institutefc.org/tag/wealth-creation/)
- [Being Intentional In Relationships](https://institutefc.org/tag/being-intentional-in-relationships/)
- [Christ's Plan](https://institutefc.org/tag/christs-plan/)
- [Christ's Redemptive Plan](https://institutefc.org/tag/christs-redemptive-plan/)
- [Christian Hypocrisy](https://institutefc.org/tag/christian-hypocrisy/)
- [Coming To Know Christ](https://institutefc.org/tag/coming-to-know-christ/)
- [Conduct](https://institutefc.org/tag/conduct/)
- [Doing Work Well](https://institutefc.org/tag/doing-work-well/)
- [Doing Your Job Well](https://institutefc.org/tag/doing-your-job-well/)
- [four chapter gospel](https://institutefc.org/tag/four-chapter-gospel/)
- [Know Christ](https://institutefc.org/tag/know-christ/)
- [Love People](https://institutefc.org/tag/love-people/)
- [Most Jobs](https://institutefc.org/tag/most-jobs/)
- [Prayer](https://institutefc.org/tag/prayer/)
- [Relationship With Christ](https://institutefc.org/tag/relationship-with-christ/)
- [Relationships](https://institutefc.org/tag/relationships/)
- [religion](https://institutefc.org/tag/religion/)
- [Sharing Christ](https://institutefc.org/tag/sharing-christ/)
- [Sharing Christ At The Water Cooler](https://institutefc.org/tag/sharing-christ-at-the-water-cooler/)
- [Spiritual Ministry](https://institutefc.org/tag/spiritual-ministry/)
- [Spiritual Things](https://institutefc.org/tag/spiritual-things/)
- [The Golden Rule](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-golden-rule/)
- [the Great Commission](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-great-commission/)
- [The Workplace](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-workplace/)
- [unbelievers](https://institutefc.org/tag/unbelievers/)
- [Why We Need Jesus](https://institutefc.org/tag/why-we-need-jesus/)
- [Work And Relationships](https://institutefc.org/tag/work-and-relationships/)
- [Work Is Important to God](https://institutefc.org/tag/work-is-important-to-god/)
- [workplace](https://institutefc.org/tag/workplace/)
- [Workplace Ministry](https://institutefc.org/tag/workplace-ministry/)
- [Biblical Doctrine](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblical-doctrine/)
- [Character](https://institutefc.org/tag/character/)
- [Character Values](https://institutefc.org/tag/character-values/)
- [Economists](https://institutefc.org/tag/economists/)
- [Founders](https://institutefc.org/tag/founders/)
- [Free Society](https://institutefc.org/tag/free-society/)
- [Human Flourishing](https://institutefc.org/tag/human-flourishing/)
- [Important Principles](https://institutefc.org/tag/important-principles/)
- [Markets And Morality](https://institutefc.org/tag/markets-and-morality/)
- [Morals](https://institutefc.org/tag/morals/)
- [Peace](https://institutefc.org/tag/peace/)
- [Prosperity](https://institutefc.org/tag/prosperity/)
- [Ten Important Principles](https://institutefc.org/tag/ten-important-principles/)
- [Ten Principles](https://institutefc.org/tag/ten-principles/)
- [The Founders](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-founders/)
- [Values](https://institutefc.org/tag/values/)
- [Audio Lectures](https://institutefc.org/tag/audio-lectures/)
- [Commute](https://institutefc.org/tag/commute/)
- [Five Ways](https://institutefc.org/tag/five-ways/)
- [Free Downloads](https://institutefc.org/tag/free-downloads/)
- [Free Resources](https://institutefc.org/tag/free-resources/)
- [John Piper](https://institutefc.org/tag/john-piper/)
- [Listening To Audio Lectures Or Sermons](https://institutefc.org/tag/listening-to-audio-lectures-or-sermons/)
- [Long Commute](https://institutefc.org/tag/long-commute/)
- [Make The Most of Time](https://institutefc.org/tag/make-the-most-of-time/)
- [Make The Most Of Your Commute](https://institutefc.org/tag/make-the-most-of-your-commute/)
- [Memorizing Scripture](https://institutefc.org/tag/memorizing-scripture/)
- [My Commute](https://institutefc.org/tag/my-commute/)
- [Online](https://institutefc.org/tag/online/)
- [Seminary](https://institutefc.org/tag/seminary/)
- [Sermons](https://institutefc.org/tag/sermons/)
- [Spiritual Growth](https://institutefc.org/tag/spiritual-growth/)
- [Studying](https://institutefc.org/tag/studying/)
- [The Five](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-five/)
- [Tim Keller](https://institutefc.org/tag/tim-keller/)
- [Worship](https://institutefc.org/tag/worship/)
- [Worship Music](https://institutefc.org/tag/worship-music/)
- [Biblical Foundations of Economic Principles](https://institutefc.org/tag/biblical-foundations-of-economic-principles/)
- [Common Sense Economics](https://institutefc.org/tag/common-sense-economics/)
- [Create Jobs](https://institutefc.org/tag/create-jobs/)
- [Creating Value](https://institutefc.org/tag/creating-value/)
- [dominion](https://institutefc.org/tag/dominion/)
- [Generate Value](https://institutefc.org/tag/generate-value/)
- [God-given](https://institutefc.org/tag/god-given/)
- [Goods](https://institutefc.org/tag/goods/)
- [Goods and Services](https://institutefc.org/tag/goods-and-services/)
- [How Value Is Created](https://institutefc.org/tag/how-value-is-created/)
- [Hurricane Katrina](https://institutefc.org/tag/hurricane-katrina/)
- [Ice](https://institutefc.org/tag/ice/)
- [Jobs Created](https://institutefc.org/tag/jobs-created/)
- [Principle](https://institutefc.org/tag/principle/)
- [Production of Goods and Services](https://institutefc.org/tag/production-of-goods-and-services/)
- [Serve Others](https://institutefc.org/tag/serve-others/)
- [Services](https://institutefc.org/tag/services/)
- [Superstorm Sandy](https://institutefc.org/tag/superstorm-sandy/)
- [Does Your Work Matter?](https://institutefc.org/tag/does-your-work-matter/)
- [faith at work](https://institutefc.org/tag/faith-at-work/)
- [IFWE's Webinars](https://institutefc.org/tag/ifwes-webinars/)
- [Majority](https://institutefc.org/tag/majority/)
- [Putting Faith and Work Together](https://institutefc.org/tag/putting-faith-and-work-together/)
- [Register](https://institutefc.org/tag/register/)
- [Register Today](https://institutefc.org/tag/register-today/)
- [To Discover](https://institutefc.org/tag/to-discover/)
- [To God](https://institutefc.org/tag/to-god/)
- [Webinar](https://institutefc.org/tag/webinar/)
- [Webinars](https://institutefc.org/tag/webinars/)
- [Work Matters](https://institutefc.org/tag/work-matters/)
- [Work Week](https://institutefc.org/tag/work-week/)
- [Your Work Matters](https://institutefc.org/tag/your-work-matters/)
- [Your Work Matters to God](https://institutefc.org/tag/your-work-matters-to-god/)
- [A Character](https://institutefc.org/tag/a-character/)
- [Act](https://institutefc.org/tag/act/)
- [Action](https://institutefc.org/tag/action/)
- [Actions](https://institutefc.org/tag/actions/)
- [Choice](https://institutefc.org/tag/choice/)
- [Christian Life](https://institutefc.org/tag/christian-life/)
- [Cultivating Character](https://institutefc.org/tag/cultivating-character/)
- [Effects](https://institutefc.org/tag/effects/)
- [Faith and Work Blog](https://institutefc.org/tag/faith-and-work-blog/)
- [Faith Blog](https://institutefc.org/tag/faith-blog/)
- [Future](https://institutefc.org/tag/future/)
- [Habit](https://institutefc.org/tag/habit/)
- [How Then Should We Work?](https://institutefc.org/tag/how-then-should-we-work/)
- [Hugh Whelchel](https://institutefc.org/tag/hugh-whelchel/)
- [Matthew](https://institutefc.org/tag/matthew/)
- [Rediscovering](https://institutefc.org/tag/rediscovering/)
- [Rediscovering The Biblical Doctrine of Work](https://institutefc.org/tag/rediscovering-the-biblical-doctrine-of-work/)
- [Renewing Character](https://institutefc.org/tag/renewing-character/)
- [Renewing Culture](https://institutefc.org/tag/renewing-culture/)
- [Stanley Hauerwas](https://institutefc.org/tag/stanley-hauerwas/)
- [The Biblical Doctrine of Work](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-biblical-doctrine-of-work/)
- [The Character](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-character/)
- [The Gospels](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-gospels/)
- [There Are Only Two](https://institutefc.org/tag/there-are-only-two/)
- [thought](https://institutefc.org/tag/thought/)
- [Vice](https://institutefc.org/tag/vice/)
- [Virtues](https://institutefc.org/tag/virtues/)
- [What Is Character?](https://institutefc.org/tag/what-is-character/)
- [Work Blog](https://institutefc.org/tag/work-blog/)
- [Acton](https://institutefc.org/tag/acton/)
- [Acton Institute](https://institutefc.org/tag/acton-institute/)
- [Acton Institute PowerBlog](https://institutefc.org/tag/acton-institute-powerblog/)
- [Augustine](https://institutefc.org/tag/augustine/)
- [Augustine Collective](https://institutefc.org/tag/augustine-collective/)
- [Business Fights Poverty](https://institutefc.org/tag/business-fights-poverty/)
- [Capitalism And Christianity](https://institutefc.org/tag/capitalism-and-christianity/)
- [Evangelism](https://institutefc.org/tag/evangelism/)
- [Evangelists](https://institutefc.org/tag/evangelists/)
- [Library of Law and Liberty](https://institutefc.org/tag/library-of-law-and-liberty/)
- [Moral Philosophy](https://institutefc.org/tag/moral-philosophy/)
- [Of Law And Liberty](https://institutefc.org/tag/of-law-and-liberty/)
- [Poverty Relief](https://institutefc.org/tag/poverty-relief/)
- [PowerBlog](https://institutefc.org/tag/powerblog/)
- [Social Justice](https://institutefc.org/tag/social-justice/)
- [The Augustine Collective](https://institutefc.org/tag/the-augustine-collective/)
- [Values and Capitalism](https://institutefc.org/tag/values-and-capitalism/)
- [Debt](https://institutefc.org/tag/debt/)
- [Government Spending](https://institutefc.org/tag/government-spending/)
- [In The Long Run](https://institutefc.org/tag/in-the-long-run/)
- [Keynesian Economics](https://institutefc.org/tag/keynesian-economics/)
- [Runaway Spending](https://institutefc.org/tag/runaway-spending/)
- [Redeeming Work](https://institutefc.org/tag/redeeming-work/)
- [public square](https://institutefc.org/tag/public-square/)

## Tags

- [yes](https://institutefc.org/?taxonomy=wc_square_synced&term=yes)

## Product categories

- [Christ in Culture](https://institutefc.org/product-category/christ-in-culture/)
- [Downloads](https://institutefc.org/product-category/downloads/)
- [Books](https://institutefc.org/product-category/books/)

## Product tags

- [Book](https://institutefc.org/product-tag/book/)

## Leadership Categories

- [Staff](https://institutefc.org/leadership_cat/staff/)
- [Senior Fellows](https://institutefc.org/leadership_cat/senior-fellows/)
- [Contributors & Speakers](https://institutefc.org/leadership_cat/contributors-speakers/)
- [Advisors](https://institutefc.org/leadership_cat/advisors/)
- [Speaker's Bureau](https://institutefc.org/leadership_cat/speakers-bureau/)

## Formats

- [journal](https://institutefc.org/format/journal/)

## Shows

- [Redeeming Work](https://institutefc.org/show/redeeming-work/)
- [City of God](https://institutefc.org/show/city-of-god/)
- [City of God Families](https://institutefc.org/show/city-of-god-families/)
- [Unmasking Gender Ideology](https://institutefc.org/show/unmasking-gender-ideology/)
- [Voddie Baucham](https://institutefc.org/show/voddie-baucham/)
- [Kingdom Come Conference](https://institutefc.org/show/kingdom-come-conference/)
- [Francis Schaeffer](https://institutefc.org/show/francis-schaeffer/)
- [Rob Pacienza](https://institutefc.org/show/rob-pacienza/)
- [God's Design Sermon Series](https://institutefc.org/show/gods-design-sermon-series/)