Defence against the dark arts
Satan is real and is a clear and present danger. This is not a widely accepted truth in many churches. We ignore this to our peril. In our final part on this subject, Ian Mitchell and Andy Cornell shine a light at the art of war in the days leading up to October 31, a significant day in pagan, Wiccan, and occult traditions. … Read more
The enemy is real
Behind the costume masks and jack-o'-lanterns lurks an inconvenient truth: October can be an evil month. It begins with a build-up to Thanksgiving then gradually becomes dark in the slide towards Halloween. This essay explores the reality of the darkness, the power of the contrary spirit, and the vital need for believers to be engaged in spiritual warfare. … Read more
The horrors of Hallowe’en
Autumn can be a glorious time. We rejoice in fall colours, fresh starts, and relief from the summer’s heat. October is the peak. While the month begins with a rapid build-up to Thanksgiving, it quickly turns dark. This essay is a statement against Hallowe’en that explores the reality of the darkness in which depression and anxiety are endemic, souls are lost, and spirits are troubled, tossed about and tempted by the lies and lures of Satan. … Read more
Bavinck in Brief: A Green Theology
As with nature, Scripture and the church are organisms. … Read more
Mired in Christendom but moving forward
Inside the uneasy theological symbiosis in the belly of The Presbyterian Church in Canada Christendom died a long time ago. But the church still operates as if it were alive. I say that because – … Read more
The unasked questions
We are invited to deepen our walk and become mature children through Christian formation and discipleship. … Read more
Restoring Spiritual Passion
I remember it so vividly I can almost feel the pain in my throat again. I had just finished my exams at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. It was the end of an intense term, filled with lots of activities. My wife Irene was expecting our first child, and she’d travelled ahead of me, up to our new home in Seattle on the airplane. And my job? My job was to … Read more
PCC Renewal: my story
Contrary to what older generations think, Gen Z is yearning for tradition. … Read more
Creative licence caution
There are many excellent television shows online these days that have a solid biblical foundation. What could go wrong by watching them? … Read more
When The Holy Spirit arrives
Anna Farlie, left, Dora Daroczi, and Abigail McGuffin are the THEO Trio The THEO Trio overcomes and presents a powerful witness HAMILTON, Ont. – It was the final sederunt of the 2025 General Assembly of … Read more
Fasting: Spiritual muscle for leaders at war
I can’t help but wonder if Protestantism has, in some ways, and in some quarters, become spiritually flabby. … Read more
Ministry to Gen Zed
In these days of relativism, deepfakes, and loneliness despite social media, influencers are prompting young people to look to the Christian faith for truth that they can believe in, and to the church for real people that they can connect with. … Read more
Live like Jesus, Be like Jesus
What can we learn from the Lord’s personal devotional life? … Read more
Candle lighting and candlelight
Advent liturgy and worship in an age of brevity It was Christmas Eve and the service was going much quicker than expected. During preparation, I timed it at approximately 60 minutes. But when I glanced … Read more
Way, Truth and Life
The hand-out invitation for a class now essential in any church: If you know nothing, or maybe a little, or are full of questions about the Christian faith and are interested in safely finding out more, then this is for you! Or maybe you have a spouse or a friend who fits? There is no expectation for you to go to a church service unless you want to! Bring your questions for a time of discussion and learning. There are only … Read more