Movie sequels are rarely as good as the original films on which they’re based. The same dictum, it appears, holds for finance. The 2008 housing market collapse was bad enough, but it appears now that we’re on the verge of experiencing it all again. And the financial sequel, working from a similar script as its original version, could prove to be just as devastating to the American taxpayer.

The sign read, “Best Bar-B-Que in Town.” The label on a box of cookies said, “30 Percent Fewer Calories.” The grocer boasted, “Freshest Produce in the County.” Are these statements true? Who knows? We’ve become so used to these assertions that as long as a company can weave a tale that somehow fits the facts, we’re coerced to believe it.

After years of declining Christmas toy sales in favor of technology purchases, experts report children are once again longing for real toys—as long as they integrate some form of digital experience.

The headlines read, “Business scandal hits Main Street,” and “Academy cheaters uncovered.” Suddenly schools tout new ethics courses. Problem solved, right? Wrong.

Today, I begin a series of columns on Christian ethics in the business world. But before we can legitimately think through and discuss the issues believers face in the workplace, it’s necessary to explain the difference between “ethics” and “Christian ethics.”

Creditors for the bankrupt Family Christian Stores voted to allow the chain to reorganize and remain open, according to court documents filed today.

Family Christian Stores (FCS) entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this year with more than $100 million in debt. After several failed attempts to get court-approval for a quick buyout, FCS submitted a plan to its creditors for their approval.