My 15 Minutes Seconds of Fame

During last week's Guardian science podcast, the studio hosts railed against Michael Heller, essentially calling him a liar, for no greater crime than stating that Richard Dawkins had conceded in a public debate that they, philosophically speaking, spell the word Rationality (rationality) differently!

The introduction to this interview begins at 20:04 into the podcast. The interview with Michael Heller goes from 20:53-25:50, and in-studio reaction continues from 25:51-31:36.

Pay particular attention to the immediate reaction (about 25:51) of the studio hosts after the interview proper and draw your own conclusions about their level of objectivity.



I posted to their Facebook wall and blog, and was flattered and impressed by their willingness to broadcast my concerns on this week's podcast, 34:39-35:23, although they didn't agree with my assessment.

Relative Worth

Paul writes in verse 8 that everything else in his life is less than worthless, in comparison with Jesus.

What would it look like if I really lived out this truth? How would it look in your life, dear Reader?

Crazy Math

In verse 7, Paul explains elegantly that having a relationship with Jesus turns numerical descriptions of what we value backwards and upside down.

Paul's Pedigree

According to verses 1-6, Paul is a Jewish superstar!

Fortunately for a Gentile like me, that isn't what counts.

Rather, it's a solid relationship with God.

Outline of Philippians 3

I. Beware of Legalists

A. Circumcision is nothing without Christ
B. I should know...I'm Paul!

II. Run Life's Race to Win

A. How?
B. By following the right people's examples

Death

Even knowing the gospel message, even knowing a person you love is a Christian, death is so sad and so difficult for the people left behind.

Paul acknowledges this fact in verse 27.

Poured Out Like a Drink Offering

Both my wife and my sister-in-law are having very difficult experiences these days.

I myself do not feel like I'm being poured out, but they both do.

In verses 17-18, Paul says that's he's glad even if he dies for the cause of Christ.

I can't relate to this level of faith. When I'm facing a crisis, I get frustrated and impatient.

It is important that I learn from the example of Paul and support the people around me whom I love and see suffering.