But, like the two disciples fighting over who would be his go-to guy in the new kingdom, the traditions of men have always vied to undermine the gospel, I suppose, either by outright takeover or, more stealthily, by linking it up with their interests. Where some define justification by “faith, plus…” others undercut the Great Commission by “Jesus, and…”

It seems Sanctitity of Life Sunday and thinly veiled affirmations of violence and insurrection are getting some competition:

Another left-leaning religious coalition will begin airing scripture-citing radio ads in key congressional districts this weekend, calling for legislation to make health insurance more affordable. The coalition — which includes Faith in Public Life, Sojourners and Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good — also is distributing an eight-page guide, full of Biblical quotes and health-care statistics, to encourage pastors to raise the issue in sermons.