When Cultural Identity Becomes Sacred

March 19, 2024 By Brad Vaughn

In contemporary American society, a striking phenomenon has emerged: the sacralization of culture and cultural identity. To put it more directly, culture has become a religion. Cultural identity has become a religious identity. Cultural and ethnic identities have ascended to positions of reverence and unassailable authority in the lives of many individuals. This shift is emblematic of a broader social transformation, where culture has, in some respects, supplanted traditional religion in its role as a moral and ethical compass. This... Read more

10 Places Honor and Shame Show Up in America

March 12, 2024 By Brad Vaughn

Here are 10 ways that honor and shame manifest in various aspects of American life. What would you add to the list? Read more

How Do Western, Individualist Churches Shape Identity?

March 5, 2024 By Brad Vaughn

The Western church finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. With society becoming ever more individualistic, the church must grapple with the implications of this societal shift on its congregants, doctrines, and mission. The church, historically rooted in community and shared beliefs, faces challenges in maintaining its foundational values in an era where the individual reigns supreme. Identity amid Individualism Individualism is a double-edged sword. While it encourages personal responsibility and nurtures a direct relationship with God, it also skews perceptions... Read more

The Depth and Breadth of a Name in Biblical Times

February 27, 2024 By Brad Vaughn

The concept of “name” in modern Western contexts has largely been reduced to a matter of personal identity or a mere label that stands for one’s reputation or achievement. However, diving into the depth of biblical narratives, particularly in passages like Genesis 12:1-3, reveals that the idea of a “name” encompasses much more. When God promises to make Abram’s “name great,” it’s not merely about attaining fame or renown. The breadth and depth of this concept are vast, interweaving themes... Read more

A Critique of McGavran and the Homogenous Unit Principle

February 20, 2024 By Brad Vaughn

The following is a guest post based on Matthew Bennett’s Amazon review of Donald McGavran’s famous Bridges of God. Matt (Ph.D., SEBTS) is an Assistant Professor of Missions and Theology at Cedarville University in Cedarville, OH. Prior to taking this post, he and his family lived in North Africa and the Middle East for seven years. A Troubled Legacy In my estimation as a missiologist, this small book (Bridges of God) is responsible for most of the worst parts of... Read more

How Individualism Polarizes Us

February 13, 2024 By Brad Vaughn

The relationship between individualism and polarization is undeniable but nuanced. Individualism champions personal freedom and autonomy. But it inadvertently breeds social fragmentation, especially where competition is rife and differences are amplified. Moreover, the emphasis on an achieved identity, where personal accomplishments and choices form the bedrock of one’s self-definition, can unwittingly bolster polarization. The fear of jeopardizing their carefully constructed identity can also deter individuals from embracing alternative viewpoints. Let’s consider a few examples where individualism widens social division. When... Read more

Balancing Individualism and Collectivism: Pros and Cons

February 6, 2024 By Brad Vaughn

Identity is an intricate mosaic, shaped by myriad influences. As we navigate our understanding of identity, we often grapple with the dynamic interplay between individualism and collectivism. Both perspectives carry inherent value and limitations, and it’s essential to recognize that their implications are not just theoretical. They have real-world consequences that shape our interpersonal relationships, decision-making processes, and social structures. As we reflect on these concepts, our aim is not to pick a “winner.” Instead, we want to discern the... Read more

The Missional Logic of Revelation 5:9

January 30, 2024 By Brad Vaughn

The dramatic narrative of the Revelation narrative presents a peculiar theology of “conquest” and redemption that has profound implications for the church’s mission. Revelation 5:9 encapsulates a critical shift from the ancient Passover to a global narrative, affirming that the scope of Christ’s kingdom is as boundless as humanity itself. Victory Through Sacrifice: The Logic of Conquest Revelation 5 unfolds with a dual affirmation: Christ has conquered and is thus worthy to open the scroll (5:5). Verse 9 reinforces the... Read more

The Implicit Critique of Culture in Revelation 5:9

January 23, 2024 By Brad Vaughn

The book of Revelation unveils a cosmic panorama where the destiny of creation converges upon the Lamb, the pivotal figure in the drama of redemption. Revelation 5:9 offers a glimpse into the heavenly reality where Christ redeems a people for himself from every tribe, language, people, and nation. This vision is transformative, particularly as it speaks to our understanding of national and ethnic identities. It propels us beyond the confines of our own nationalistic and ethnocentric silos, urging us to... Read more

The Nuanced Dance of Identity: Beyond East-West Dichotomies

January 16, 2024 By Brad Vaughn

Identity formation is a multifaceted process. It’s heavily influenced by cultural, familial, and personal experiences. Over time, popular narratives have led many to simplify identity formation into categories such as “West = Individualistic” and “East = Collectivistic.” However, this division, while offering a starting point, can be misleading. Identity is a complex tapestry woven from threads of similarity and difference. Let’s delve deeper into the topic. Context-Specific Identity Influences Family vs. Work How individuals perceive themselves varies depending on one’s... Read more