Categories I blog about

One of the critiques against the blogging community, is that bloggers tend to have an opinion on everything. It is a serious accusation of “shallowness” and I therefore feel compelled to limit myself on what I blog about.

I thus mainly blog about the following 7 topics:

1.) Relationship with Jesus

The first and foremost topic I blog about, is having a relationship with the risen Christ. It is probably because I struggle with this so much myself, that it is so important to me.

My posts are more than likely contemplations on how you can experience a more genuine relationship with Jesus. Always remember that I write it not because my relationship with the Lord is without difficulties. Exactly the opposite is true! Relationship with God does not come naturally for me. So please consider my posts as if I’m a beggar, telling another beggar where to find bread.

2.) Reflections on theology

Theology makes up an immense amount of who I am. I cannot help but write about it.

Luther said that if the ocean is God, theology is the map. We cannot say that we enjoy the pleasure of sailing on the ocean if we only study the map. But nor can we explore the wide open sea, without a map to give us direction. Theology influences our perspective of God – and hence colours the way we relate to Him (and the way we think He relates to us).

Much of what I write, has to do with the maps we use to explore God and understand the Biblical texts we read. If I find that a particular map gives me better results than others, I will let you know.

3.) Reviewing material

I love a stimulating, thought-provoking read or an intriguing video. The problem is that I easily forget what I have read or where I saw something!

This blog serves as a “personal remembrance tool” – and provides me a space where I can interpret the books, articles, video’s or material that I keep myself busy with. Sometimes I will review a book in full, while other times I might just review a specific theme or chapter. In all probability it will be about a thought that has captivated me and that I have tried to make my own. If you feel that you have benefited from a review, feel free to comment and share your thoughts on the subject as well.

4.) Research on science

Much of the scientific research these days, has a profound influence on me as a pastor. Studies on evolution, psychology, stress, depression, sleep deprivation, addictions etc, all influence how I read my Bible, relate to God and need to guide my parishioners.

Please understand that when I report on these matters, I am not trying to create the impression that I am a boffin on the topic. I only try to embrace science – and not to run from it.

5.) Regarding Church

Because being part of the body of Christ is what I do, I write about the Church. Whether it is about the mainline church, emerging church or persecuted church, please understand my comments as humble thoughts of an “insider”.

6.) Rethinking scenarios

I succumb to introspection – and I’m very good at that I might add. It robbs me of countless hours of sleep.

I often find myself contemplating situations I have been exposed to. I try to make sense of the stuff I hear. I try to come to grips with the stuff I see. In my rethinking of those scenarios, I am trying to interpret life.

7.) Ravings about my family

In between all the above topics, you will find the odd post about my family. The reason for this is  . . . well . . . because I have the most beautiful wife and the coolest kidz in the world! The Lord blessed me with a very precious family. Sometimes I feel the need to shout about my love and joy – but I guess writing a blog post about them will have to suffice.