Matthew 22

How do we move from Jesus' core ethical mandate to the complex issues we face in the modern world?

In my state of South Carolina, we have a long history of not wanting anybody to tell us what to do with our land, our possessions, or our money. This has created a sense of fierce independence, as history bears out.

According to Isaiah, God has a tattoo!

We might Bible-study our way through most of this difficult parable, but what do we do with the guest who is pulled in off the streets and then kicked out?

How, in real life, do we love God and neighbor?

When early Christians saw the word robe, they thought of one thing only.

No political ethic without social location

There have always been those who reject the gifts they’re offered.

I was emphasizing to parents of confirmands that the young people should be with their families in worship as part of their preparation for membership. “I’m afraid we don’t have time for worship,” one mother told me after the meeting. Her words were soothing and gentle, yet they sounded condescending, as if she were explaining something to a not-very-bright child. “We’ve committed to soccer and cheerleading for my youngest on Sunday mornings. We have a full plate."

Jesus' simple summary of the law is actually complex.

If you are ever invited to a gala event where a constitutional monarch is present, you will be told to wear a dark suit or a formal dress—no pants suits for women, no leisure suits for men. Apparently the poor guy in the parable of the wedding banquet didn’t read the small print on his invitation.

Are service to God and to Caesar compatible?

The coin bears Caesar's likeness and inscription. What bears God's?