Why Blog?
I have had a couple people ask why I have this blog. Originally it was to inform ya'll of my progress to seminary. As that was completed, I continue to use it to provide updates on the family. In addition I found it to be a great venue for me for exposition of ideas and have, over time, provided more content along those lines. I don't expect most folks to read the bulk of the posts written. Often the material is not original but rather links to what others have written. When I write, often it is too theological or academic for their tastes (or ability.) I do try to offer as much variation in approach as I can so that at least some of what I post is edifying. Indeed, it does take much time and effort to maintain such a blog. I wish i could say otherwise. My purpose in doing so is simple and is almost entirely selfish. Just like many throughout the annals of time have written diaries, I too found that I needed to do so in order to preserve my focus and sanity. During summer Greek, I found the theological topics to be a great distraction from the intensive course. The blog offered a means to "brain dump" those ideas and thoughts onto the typewritten page. Whether they were valuable or interesting to others was entirely secondary to my own personal edification and growth. Unlike the diaries of old, this one is entirely public. My motivation to do so was to provide a means for critical review of those ideas on the page. In some cases, this has proved valuable in refining concepts or in a few instances rephrasing them for better understanding. I fully expect this sort of dialogue to continue into my pastoral ministry someday. For me, dialogue is one of the keys to refining my ability to communicate the Word effectively. Pastors are often too secluded and become inward looking. This leads them to despair in their ability and I believe also to heretical thinking. Looking outward and relying on the church community for support physically, mentally, and spiritually is essential. It is rare (and perhaps impossible) for correct teaching of the Word to come apart from the Spirit working through the Word and your fellow saints throughout time. The great presentations of faith (creeds, confessions) were always built on the shoulders of others. So, read what you can. If you find something worthwhile, respond and share with others. Thanks!
