Many North Americans readers will know the second great anniversary that occurs this Sunday is that 200 years ago today, Adoniram and Ann Judson sailed from Massachusetts, on February 19, 1812, apparently the first Protestant American missionaries to travel overseas. (more…)
Category Archives: Buddhism
The Universe Next Door by James W Sire
Review
The Universe Next Door (5th edition)
James W Sire
IVP Academic, Downers Grove, 2009. 293 pp.
I first read The Universe Next Door while I was at university. We were running an evangelistic event where students lined up to take a quiz to discover what world view would suit them best. We would then give them a pamphlet that explained their likely world view, along with any weaknesses it had and relevant Christian viewpoints they ought to consider. It was my job to write these handouts, and the Christian survey of various world views, The Universe Next Door, was my main source (in combination with Wikipedia, of course). I pored over it for a week, reading and re-reading, and got the pamphlets done in the nick of time. Then, in true student style, I ejected every piece of information out of my brain and moved on to my next assignment. (more…)
When ‘living the gospel’ isn’t enough
Everyday Ministry
St Francis of Assisi is often quoted as saying, “Preach the gospel at all times. When necessary use, words.” Regardless of whether he actually said this or not, I understand the sentiment of some who quote him. Namely, the Christian faith needs to be lived out, not only talked about. (more…)
A reader’s guide to the spectator’s guide
Review
Telling Buddhists about Jesus
Everyday Ministry
Introduction
The first person to attempt to talk to me about the Lord Jesus was a young American woman who was part of a team of missionaries visiting the university at which I was studying. I was sitting on my own at a table in one of the cafeterias when she came over, sat down and said that she was interested in talking to people about what they believed. I explained to her briefly that I was a Buddhist and what that entailed. Her response? “Well, that’s ridiculous!” Out of pity, I resolved to indulge her for as long as she wanted to hang around. I hoped that it would not be long, and it wasn’t.
What would Buddha do?
Ever had a friend who thought they might become a Buddhist? Sounds trendy, but it’s a bit of a contradiction in terms. You see, most religions of the world—including Buddhism—don’t believe that change is really possible. Not deep, true, personal change. The circle of life just rolls on and religion is usually more about maintaining the status quo and restricting individual freedom than anything else. So how do you change your beliefs by adopting a religion that believes that nothing can ever change? (more…)