While I relate more to the first part of Paul’s sentence (because I wish more folks stayed and enjoyed being single), I've come to see how they are both good gifts by reading all of 1 Corinthians 7:7 “I wish that all were as I myself am. But each has his own gift from God, one of one kind and one of another.” They are states of being, each a gift, neither better than the other, and given by God at His discretion ..read more

  Once relegated to long gone memories of Woodstock or the Grateful Dead, psychedelics are back and in a new fashion. Taboo substances like magic mushrooms, LSD, DMT, and ayahuasca are being investigated by research labs and medical centers for their potential to renew healthcare.  Let’s narrow in on “magic mushrooms,” a species of fungus in the family Psilocybe known for containing psilocybin, a chemically active compound which binds to specific serotonin receptors in the brain. When these receptors are activated, the user experiences intense feelings of euphoria, a deep sense of c ..read more

  As of April 7th, 2024, the Village Church changed the way the Lord's Table is administered, specifically, moving from a “guarded table” to a “fenced ” or “restricted” table. In addition to this position paper, a pamphlet will be placed in the pews, and changes in the language used during the institution of the table will be made, making visitors aware of our practice and its purpose. Preface Over the last six months, the elders of The Village Church have been in regular conversation regarding the faithful administration of the Lord’s Table. This conversation began due to collective co ..read more

  As of April 7th, 2024, the Village Church changed the way the Lord's Table is administered, specifically, moving from a “guarded table” to a “fenced ” or “restricted” table. In addition to this position paper, a pamphlet will be placed in the pews, and changes in the language used during the institution of the table will be made, making visitors aware of our practice and its purpose. Preface Over the last six months, the elders of The Village Church have been in regular conversation regarding the faithful administration of the Lord’s Table. This conversation began due to collective co ..read more

  As we as a church have just wrapped up John 10, where Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd, I’ve also finished reading A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 by Philip Keller, and I already want to re-read it. It is a beautiful book, and I cannot recommend it enough to any Christian in any walk of life. Keller, an experienced shepherd and pastor, carefully unpacks David’s famous psalm by vividly describing all the ways shepherds care for their sheep and how each of those ways provides a perfect picture of how our Lord cares for us. Below is a synopsis of his commentary. Consider it a for ..read more

  Much of what is shared in this article is derived from John Stott’s commentary on 1 Timothy. In 1 Timothy 6:11-12, Paul writes, “But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” — 1 Timothy 6:11-12 These verses start with the words “but as for you” which signifies a distinction Paul is making. Paul has just finished describing various kinds of f ..read more

  The political sphere of our country is turbulent. The upcoming elections are undeniably important and will affect human flourishing. We are also more divided as a country than ever before, or at least I am told. In such times, it seems almost predictable that most conversations with Christians switch rapidly to politics. After such a turn in a conversation with a politically-impassioned believer, I visibly lost interest and was asked why some, such as myself, are not interested in current political controversy. The question surprised me—I try to reasonably keep myself up to date about ..read more

  Below is an excerpt from Alec Motyer’s translation and commentary on Isaiah 27, found in his work Isaiah by the Day. The excerpt briefly traces the thread of the image of a vineyard in three passages which culminate in a grand vision of God finally fulfilling His redemptive plan in history. To summarize, Motyer points out that the vineyard which was first introduced as a bleak and hopeless picture of rotten fruit (i.e. “stink fruit”) crushed by oppressors is transformed into an abundantly fertile and fruitful landscape which is kept at peace by Yahweh its Gardener. As for its former ro ..read more

  Author’s notes: In my personal study, I have come across several commentaries’ interpretations of Matthew’s use of Hosea 11:1. The Lord forcefully led me down this rabbit trail after experiencing weeks of leaving my morning devotions void of a sufficient understanding of this particular reference. The further I trotted, the more astounded I became. In no way do I claim a comprehensive knowledge of this topic, but from dedicated research steeped in prayer, I have learned a lot. I have heavily relied upon a few resources such as G.K. Beale’s Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old ..read more

  Author’s Notes: I choose to write with a pseudonym for practical purposes but have no problem with people at the Village knowing my name or associating me with this piece. This article does not represent the official position of The Village Church Columbus, but is a means to engage in thoughtful discussions about obedience and faithfulness to God and His Word. * * * In the first part of this two-part article, I discussed the passage in 1 Corinthians 11, which instructs the church in Corinth to follow the tradition of women covering their heads during the church service. After goi ..read more