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Doctrine/Theology

The Next Methodism Needs Bishops

With the Baltimore-Washington Annual Conference’s proposal to disaffiliate from one part of The United Methodist Church and join with another part in a different geographical area, we have more evidence that the denomination as we know it is kaput.  It

Stephen Rankin May 8, 2019May 8, 2019 Christian Life, Doctrine/Theology, Ministry, Religion, The Church, United Methodism 4 Comments Read more

Judicial Council Proves We’re Already in Schism

The United Methodist Judicial Council (JC) has issued their ruling on the proposed plans going to General Conference 2019.  They have done us a big favor.  They help us to realize the fundamental rift running through the denomination. First, a

Stephen Rankin October 27, 2018 Christian Life, Doctrine/Theology, Ministry, Religion, The Church, United Methodism 34 Comments Read more

A United Methodist Magisterium

A couple of weeks ago, I shared my view that a future United Methodism, whatever form(s) it takes, will still need clear doctrine, strong teaching, and effective measures of accountability.  Let me try to extend that thought by suggesting that,

Stephen Rankin March 15, 2018March 15, 2018 Christian Life, Doctrine/Theology, Religion, The Church, United Methodism 2 Comments Read more

What We Would Still Face if United Methodism Holds

The Council of Bishops have gathered in Dallas for the latest round of discussions about United Methodism’s future.  We eagerly and anxiously await a word.  Many United Methodist are praying for wisdom for our leaders, for good outcomes, for unity.

Stephen Rankin February 27, 2018 Christian Life, Doctrine/Theology, Emerging adults, Ministry, Preaching/Teaching, Religion, The Church, United Methodism 3 Comments Read more

Last Adam

We are still celebrating Christmas and nearing Epiphany. Thoughts of the incarnation of the Word of God continue. Like Mary, I want to ponder these things in my heart. A scripture (Hebrews 2) from a recent daily reading: “It was

Stephen Rankin January 4, 2018January 4, 2018 Christian Life, Doctrine/Theology, Religion No Comments Read more
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Meet Steve

I serve as Executive Director of the Spiritual Maturity Project, a ministry some of us have recently started.  For 25 years I worked in higher education as a professor and chaplain and before that as a pastor.  I love to help people grapple with big and basic questions to grow into real ,grown-up Christian discipleship.

I ruminate on all manner of theological, biblical, historical, and cultural topics. I believe followers of Jesus need to be more like members of Issachar’s tribe, able to read the times. Read more

 

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