Happy Anniversary! Amazon Gift Card Giveaways!

John Anthony Dunne

One year ago today The Two Cities officially entered the blogosphere. Since that time the blog’s contributors have produced more than 260 posts and received more than 1,300 comments. We’re grateful for the response we’ve received from our readers and hope to continue to produce stimulating articles that encourage further engagement. As a token of our appreciation we’re giving away four Amazon gift cards worth $25 each! To enter the raffle, follow these two easy steps by the deadline, Friday, Aug.17:

1) Leave a comment here by answering at least one of the questions below. 

  • What topics would you like addressed on The Two Cities?
  • What were your favorite posts from the previous year, and why?
  • Is there anything we can do to improve the quality of our site?

2) Like us on Facebook. If you’re already a fan, press ‘Share’ and tell your friends. 

Winners will be notified by email and announced on The Two Cities Facebook page sometime next week.  

 

John Anthony Dunne
John Anthony Dunne
John holds a PhD from the University of St Andrews, where he studied under Professor N. T. Wright. He currently serves as Associate Professor of New Testament at Bethel Seminary (St. Paul, MN).

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59 responses to “Happy Anniversary! Amazon Gift Card Giveaways!”

  1. Jason

    I especially enjoyed the recent post on Christians and f bombs. It was insightful and right on.

    Reply
  2. Brad

    I remember John’s two blogs on alcohol. They were great. I really enjoyed the blogs on the same sex issue. I like these for the same reason: they give a clear biblical look at the polarizing topic. It’s nice to have a place to turn where you know current, relevent issues are discussed.and evaluated from a thoroughaly biblical perspective.

    Reply
  3. ashlsy

    we really enjoyed the fearless articles about how Christians should view homosexuality. very refreshingly to have authors who are not held back by fear when they writw truth!

    Reply
  4. Calvin

    I’ve really enjoyed when you have engaged conversations that are currently being tossed around in the public sphere. I’ve found the opinions and views here to be thoughtful and wise.

    Reply
  5. Dianne

    My favorite posts are my son’s post…all of them. Topics I want to see addressed? Anything my son writes.

    Reply
  6. Isai Garcia

    Thank you to all the contributors for a great one year run. I’ll echo Calvin’s comment of appreciation regarding keeping up with current events. All of those posts have been thought provoking. One suggestion I would make, maybe you could add a section about influential theologians. A few of candidates: Augustine, Aquinas, Luther, Calvin, Barth, Wright. Thanks again, and keep on writing excellent articles!

    Reply
    1. Isai Garcia

      *a few candidates

      Reply
  7. Kenzie

    I really appreciate the diversity of posts and gracious dialogue that the Two Cities provides. I’m partial to the practical theology posts, and have most enjoyed the posts discussing homosexuality, gender roles, adoption, and disabilities. Thanks for your insight and encouragement towards becoming more like Christ, not just gaining more knowledge.

    Reply
  8. Amy

    I liked the post on homosexuality.

    Reply
  9. Lue-Yee Tsang

    Thus far, the Two Kingdoms material has been interesting to me, because much of the relationship between Church and culture has been left unexamined by many Christians, and I think it important for those of all views (even implicit and as yet unarticulated views) to have this discussion. On this matter especially, namely that of political theology, I would welcome more engagement with not only the Protestant Reformers but also ancient theologians and contemporary scholars, that all of these might be brought to bear on questions facing the Church today.

    Reply
  10. Sam

    This is one of my favorite posts of the year, who doesn’t like giveaways? Other than this one, I’m a huge fan of anything that [future] Dr. Kelley writes.

    Reply
  11. Emily

    I found your site because you started posting Carolyn’s writing, and honestly hers are my favorites. 🙂

    Reply
  12. Justin

    My favorite article was Nate Warne’s on Turbo Qualls. I now have a piece by him because of that article!

    Reply
  13. Lisa

    I loved the post about owning things. It was very insightful. I’m still thinking about it..

    Reply
  14. Geoff Alfassa

    I loved all of Andrew Kelley’s posts!! They were awesome! I’d like to see some posts on missions and church planting.

    Reply
  15. Bill Lavinder

    Recently read the article on on fbombs relating to POD lyrics. I need to read it again because i am still not convinced of the reasoning. Thought provoking.

    Reply
  16. Jeremiah

    I would like a blog post addressing the rumors that John Dunne is a Mormon killer.

    Reply
  17. Joseph

    I thoroughly enjoyed the “we’re All Born This Way” blog post back on June 1st. It gave a perspective I hadn’t even seen before, at least not as well illustrated as in the blog post. Also gave a great challenge at the end, who cares really if you were born that way the question really is:

    How will we choose to live?

    Reply
    1. Bryan Magana

      Thanks, Joseph! That’s encouraging.

      Reply
    2. Frank Magaña

      I have enjoyed many of the posts on the site. But “We’re All Born This Way” was one of my favorites. It addresses a view that I think is overlooked. When it comes to sin it’s always a choice. When it comes to sin the Devil doesn’t make us do it–we choose to do it. When we get to the crossroad of temptation we can choose to do what is pleasing to God or what will please our flesh. We need to realize that the flesh will never be satisfied but God is already satisfied with us “In Christ”

      Reply
  18. Marta

    I am never sorry when I have taken the time to read your posts. They often give me insight into issues I have looked into. A recent blog on homosexuality was especially helpful as I am involved in a ministry to that community. Thanks for the good work guys.

    Reply
  19. Steven

    I love the wide range of topics and the quality of writing. I’m looking forward to year 2!

    Reply
  20. Heidi

    I have especially enjoyed any article that confronts the issue of a Biblical perspective vs a worldly one, and those that deal with attitudes of the heart and our sin. Of course my favorite blogger would have to be my son Tanner, but I’ve enjoyed many of the other bloggers too. I’d like to see posts contrasting the Armenian vs Calvinist view and where you stand on that. It can sometimes be a polarizing issue and stumbling block to many struggling to understand exactly what the Bible really says and not what we want it to say. Keep up the good work guys!

    Reply
  21. Scott

    1. Fav Articles: I liked the post about nationalism and the one on having babies. I have a man crush on Andrew Kelley and want him to write more so I can sit in the So Cal sun and read his mind.

    2. What topics would you like addressed on The Two Cities? More articles on philosophy and Christian thought.

    3. Improvements: The search function is non-functional? It needs work.

    Reply
  22. Courtney

    Some of my favorites are the posts regarding Harry Potter. As an English teacher, this is a topic that comes up frequently and I appreciate how you handle the issue. Your writing provides clear insight and logical thought.

    Reply
  23. Lauren

    My favorite topic off the bat is social/cultural things and Christianity. However, I have been pleasantly surprised by many things covered here and always find the articles thought provoking, even if I don’t absolutely agree. One of my more recent favorites was “I still believe”. Even though it was the basics, I found it really encouraging. Thanks for taking the time to explore these topics and write the posts!

    Reply
    1. Bryan Magana

      Thanks, Lauren! My imaginary audience for “I Still Believe” was skeptics and critics, but I’m glad it was encouraging to fellow believers as well!

      Reply
  24. Andrew Stone

    I really liked Andrew Kelley’s thoughts in his article, “The Biola Queer Underground.”

    Reply
  25. Jason

    I’ve been meaning to write you guys for a while now to thank you for the consistently great work on the site — and to prove I’m sincere, don’t bother entering me in the raffle 🙂 Anyway, I really do appreciate the time you all put into writing up thought-provoking, biblical, entertaining posts on such a wide range of issues. I’ve especially enjoyed the alcohol in the OT/NT posts (which I’m sure I’ll come back to reference in the future), the biblical manhood series, the amillennialism vs. premillennialism post, the Two Kingdoms discussions, and many others.

    As far as improvements, I just wish that the headlines didn’t get “ellipsized” on the home page after one day. It’d be nice to read the whole title without having to click on it. But that’s a minor complaint.

    Reply
    1. John Anthony Dunne
      John Anthony Dunne

      Thanks for the encouragement! And of course we’ll enter you into the raffle!

      Reply
  26. evan

    1. I’d like to see the use of religion in politics examined and the morality of it examined.
    2. I liked the “be yourself” column.
    3. Quality is fine.

    Reply
  27. Cayla

    I have read several articles and enjoyed each and every one of them. I especially liked and was helped by the Harry Potter posts. Thanks for this awesome blog site!

    Reply
  28. SAC

    I really like the graphics you chose. I wish there were one-click access to all the posts by one blog member from the homepage.

    Reply
  29. Lindsey

    My favorite article was the one by Andrew Kelley when he talked about the time that he almost became a Muslim.

    Reply
  30. Haley

    One suggestion: You could use a few more female contributors!

    Reply
    1. John Anthony Dunne
      John Anthony Dunne

      We’re awaiting your contribution O Son of Goran : )

      Reply
  31. Justice

    I really really like the posts on modern social issues and how they relate to Christianity, such as the homosexuality and f-bomb posts.

    Reply
  32. Chris Sterner

    Can’t believe it’s only been a year – it feels like a lot longer (in a good way)!

    The articles on social issues (including the one on same-sex attraction) have been my personal favorites, but I’ve definitely enjoyed and found ideas to get me thinking in each article I’ve read.

    Reply
  33. Maria Malaveci

    I am new to the site… but have read some of Carolyns writings which I think is great 🙂

    mmalavec(at)med(dot)umich(dot)edu

    Reply
  34. Cassie Peters

    Pretty sure there was a Harry Potter post that I just LOVED!! 🙂 keep it up John! All the articles and insights you post are great!

    Reply
  35. Jeremy

    I’ve loved engaging with this blog! I’m grateful for the work you all put into it. I’d love to see to see a post on the various beliefs regarding baptism. I think it would be a great discussion!

    Reply
  36. Mike S.

    I’m a student in biblical studies, so anything related to that interest me the most, but I’ve really enjoyed the diversity of topics raised in this blog, so no complaints really about the content.

    Maybe the one thing that might be helpful is to have a RSS feed button somewhere? I don’t normally go to actual blog sites but have them all feed into my Google Reader where I do most of my blog reading (and I’m assuming others here do the same).

    Thanks!

    Reply
  37. Susan

    Particularly enjoyed your posts on homosexuality. Don’t always agree with your view points but very much appreciate your thoughtful, balanced, and civil approach to all topics as opposed to the anger and hate so many put out on the web.

    Reply
  38. Hannah

    I would have to say the posts on Christianity/Gay topics have really gripped my attention, and it’s been a great reference to send a few friends to. I love how this is out of the Box and into the Bible! Thanks !

    Reply
  39. Jeff

    1)It has been really helpful to read all the posts you guys have made. I found that the review of the Galatians book to be very helpful for me in my ministry. It would be nice to see some book other book reviews or recommendations here and there. I also enjoyed your review of The Hunger Games, rather entertaining.

    2) I liked the facebook page. Check.

    Hope your enjoying your studies John, looking forward to seeing what the Lord does in and through you.

    Reply
  40. Kenny

    Bryan’s recent post “I Still Believe” is my favorite piece from TC. Any post that engages with the topic of faith in a “post-Christian” world will grab my attention, but I thought it was rad that you took the time to offer something that was neither apologetic nor pragmatic. It’s a solid 21st-century creed.

    Reply
    1. Bryan Magana

      Thank you, Kenny! Glad you found the article encouraging.

      Reply
  41. Matthew Maki

    I really love the post about Christian Hip-Hop last year. That one really got me thinking and even listening. I got goosebumps hearing story after to music.

    I would like to see posts about movies in relation to Christianity, especially relevant ones to a current issue. Also some articles about Christians in the Arts.

    Great job on the blog and keep up the good work.

    Reply
    1. Bryan Magana

      Matthew, we’ve done quite a few movie-related posts. Check the archives for February, around the time of the Oscars. I’m sure there will be many more to come!

      Reply
  42. Lexy Sauve

    Alright, well I went and liked the FB page. 🙂 To answer the questions, I have loved the articles about homosexulaity and Christian life. They have really helped me in conversations with the youth at our church, and I have shared the articles with them and parents as well. I would love to see more about art and Christianity. Keep it up, gents!

    In Chrtist,
    Lexy

    Reply
    1. Bryan Magana

      Thanks, Lexy! I always prayed that God would use those articles to help people who are fighting the good fight against homosexuality (or know somebody who is). God bless!

      Reply
  43. Jedediah Smith

    1.I enjoyed Bryan’s posts on Homosexuality quite a bit. I find that Bryan has managed to approach this topic from a perspective that is not only Biblical, but also practical. When discussing such a provocative topic, I believe it is extremely important to grasp one without letting go of the other.

    2.I also enjoyed John’s post/review on P.O.D./The “F” Bomb. I liked this article because I enjoy a “robust” vocabulary, and it was nice to see a fellow Christian cut through the childish fears of saying a “swear” word, and provoke some deeper thought on the topic.

    3. I can’t really think of any improvements you could make to the site.

    Reply
    1. Bryan Magana

      Thanks for your support, Jed! I really appreciate it. My goals are to be both biblical and loving. Counting on people like you to keep me in check!

      Reply
  44. Kathryn

    I liked the posts on homosexuality. Very helpful.

    Reply
  45. Zach

    I really enjoyed the articles on homosexuality, I have a few family members that are homosexual and I would love to share the love of Jesus with them, the articles helped me have more understanding of their situation. Thank you!

    Reply
  46. Jon Baker

    All of the articles here are sufficiently concise and thoughtful to make an impact on the community connected through this blog. I hope you all keep it up! Two articles/series that stand out are “The Gay Switch” and John’s commentary on Esther and the canon. I love that you can write ‘thought-provoking’ pieces without being aggressively provocative toward fellow believers. This distinction is too often blurred, in my opinion, among evangelical bloggers.

    Of course, I also appreciate that you allow guest bloggers (*wink*?) that can post here expecting meaningful discourse on topics near and dear to their hearts. My only wish for the blog is that you make it to another anniversary. Blessings.

    Reply
  47. Lynda Seneff

    Bryan, Your writing is insightful and challenging. To God be the Glory! You have approached subjects with a true heart towards God without the spin. Your homosexual articles challenged me to view sin in the proper light. We are ALL in need of a Savior and serving Him is not easy at times but rewarding when we see that our natural bents toward sin have been nailed to the cross.

    Reply
    1. Bryan Magana

      THANK YOU, Lynda. That’s exactly what I’d hoped for those articles. To God be the glory, indeed!

      Reply
  48. Rachelle

    My favorite posts are by Bryan Magana 🙂

    Reply

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