Join The Underlines // The Best Of What I Read

A batch of the best highlights from what Joshua's read, .

In the U.S. there is assumed to be a smooth fit between discipleship and killing. That assumption, held so easily and unreflectively, trespasses against our obedience to God alone. I wonder whether my questioner understands that for descendants of Jeremiah and followers of Jesus, obedience to God may require us to refuse the state’s claim to our loyalty. Does the Department of Defense grant that my fundamental obligation is not loyalty to country but obedience to God? I doubt it. In such circumstances, where Caesar cannot distinguish between our proper subjection and our ultimate allegiance, it may be best to say bluntly, “A loyal American? Of course not. I’m a Christian!” (D. Brent Laytham, “Loyalty Oath: A Matter of Ultimate Allegiance,” Christian Century, July 12, 2005)

Desiring the Kingdom

James K. A. Smith

Yes, the cross puts our human brutality on full display, but it also reveals something greater: the love of the Father.

The Pursuing God

Joshua Ryan Butler

We live in a post-institutional age. Our danger is not to look to institutions to save us, but rather to look to ourselves to save us.

Disappearing Church

Mark Sayers

...catch up on these, and many more highlights