Gary Neal Hansen

Theology. It's good for you.

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You are here: Home / Archives for Gary Neal Hansen

Want a Simple, Focused Christian Life? — St. Anthony of Egypt

January 17, 2014 by Gary Neal Hansen 1 Comment

Today is the memorial of St. Anthony of Egypt (c. 251-356), aka “Anthony the Great,” the prototypical “desert father.” I wanted to share a story about him that shows his character and priorities. Someone asked Abba Anthony, ‘What must one do in order to please God?’ The old man replied, ‘Pay attention to what I […]

Filed Under: Monasticism, Prayer, Saints, Theology Tagged With: Abba Anthony, Antony the Great, Benedicta Ward, desert father, Desert Fathers, Monasticism, Sayings of the Desert Fathers, St. Anthony

Vocabulary Lesson: “Trinity,” “Council”

January 15, 2014 by Gary Neal Hansen 4 Comments

A couple of weeks ago when I wrote about Gregory of Nazianzus I noted that his approach to the Trinity was radically different from most of what is said on the topic today. “I could say more — just ask me!” I quipped. My dear friend Jack Craft said he’d like to hear more. Here […]

Filed Under: Gregory of Nazianzus, Theology, Vocabulary Tagged With: Bible, Ecumenical Councils, Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormonism, theology, Trinity

Question for My Readers: Other Blogs You Like

January 14, 2014 by Gary Neal Hansen 11 Comments

I would be very interested to know what other blogs you like to read — especially blogs on theological themes. You can answer by a click in the poll below. I would be extra grateful if you would leave a comment to let me know what blogs you particularly like. Thanks! [polldaddy poll=7712460]

Filed Under: Theology, Uncategorized

Why Do Christians Talk So Much about “Blood” and “Spirit”? (The Baptism of the Lord via Heidelberg Catechism Q. 70)

January 13, 2014 by Gary Neal Hansen 3 Comments

This last Sunday in the Church year was “The Baptism of the Lord.” Jesus went down to the Jordan and had John baptize him. That act kicked off his public ministry. It also convinced Christians that we too should be baptized. As our bodies are washed with water, so God washes away all the guilt that […]

Filed Under: Heidelberg Catechism, Theology Tagged With: Baptism, Baptism of the Holy Spirit, heidelberg catechism, The Baptism of the Lord, Washed in the Blood

John Wesley’s Small Group Agenda

January 10, 2014 by Gary Neal Hansen 12 Comments

Every small group has its own to-do list. When I was a university student I would work up questions for inductive Bible study. We would try to guide our groups from details of the day’s text, to its meaning, and onward to ways to live it. Since then some of the richest small groups I’ve […]

Filed Under: Community, Theology, Wesley Tagged With: Accountability, community, John Wesley, Methodism, Small groups

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Theology. It’s good for you.

I'm a Church historian by trade. My writing, speaking, and teaching explores the Christian past to equip today's disciples. Join me here for regular posts on the best of theology, spirituality, community, and ministry. read more…

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