Tag Archives: family-history

Authority That Teaches and Forms

[Note:  The following is the prepared text for a split sermon given to the Portland, Oregon congregation on Sabbath, February 21, 2026.] Part One: Authority That Explains and Forms Trust Introduction: A Small Question, A Lasting Lesson It is not … Continue reading

Posted in Bible, Biblical History, Christianity, Church of God, History, Maternal Lines, Musings, Sermonettes | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Formation Under Constraint: On Learning Legitimacy Through Disclosure Rather Than Control

I. Formation as Encounter, Not Instruction Most theories of institutional behavior assume that formation occurs through rules, incentives, or explicit teaching. In practice, formation more often occurs through encounters with authority under constraint—moments when power, limitation, and explanation intersect in … Continue reading

Posted in Musings | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

A Family Dinner In Phnom Penh

After arriving in Phnom Penh and getting some sleep, I had a conversation with someone I know from church who came from Cambodia and who still has family living in the city. Knowing that I had to fast until 5:45PM … Continue reading

Posted in Musings | Tagged , , , , , | 3 Comments