Going It Alone? Why We Need Community

In an article in Perspectives in Religious Studies more than a decade ago, Baptist historian Walter Shurden commented on the organic tension in Baptist life between individualism and community. In the article, he affirmed that “Baptist life historically affirms...

‘Where there is hatred…’

For some odd reason, openly expressing hatred toward groups seems more socially acceptable than toward individuals. While the targets of hostility change over the years, the sad practice continues. Early in my life, the targets of blame and condemnation within my...

Guns and Religion: a Scary Mix

A Baptist pastor/evangelist recently opened a gun store in Smithfield, N.C., along with lots of help from his wife and his son, who manages the store. They were stuck on a name for the the store, which features handguns along with full line of rifles and shotguns,...

Three Reasons to Abolish the Death Penalty

On the death penalty, as on so many issues, Will D. Campbell has been out in front of many of us. Perhaps you have heard the story about a debate he had on this subject. His opponent made a case for capital punishment that was reasoned, balanced and thorough. The...