1 Thessalonians 2 is a fascinating chapter for helping us think through what ministry should look like, because in the space of just a few verses Paul compares himself to a father, a mother, and a child. He employs all three of these ‘family roles’ as part of his description of faithful ministry, thus suggesting... Continue Reading

In his article “God’s Dupes,” Harris argues, “Everything of value that people get from religion can be had more honestly, without presuming anything on insufficient evidence. The rest is self-deception, set to music” (The Los Angeles Times, March 15, 2007). Ironically, Harris’ first book is entitled The End of Faith, but it should really be called... Continue Reading

This somewhat passive approach to the sins you and I commit is, I believe, a by-product of our collectively treating so casually the fact that we are sinners–violators of God’s law– as opposed to mere “mistake-makers” (Rom. 3:23). That being said, this commentary isn’t about sin, necessarily. Well, it is but, then, again, it isn’t. It’s actually... Continue Reading

As a redeemed people, we bear witness to the good news that Jesus died on the cross, bore our sin, and rose from the grave, conquering death. Believing this good news makes us part of a body that lives and moves together toward seeing Jesus. We don’t do this evangelism thing alone.   Myth #1:... Continue Reading

The reading and preaching of the Word is a special ordinance, an outward means whereby Christ communicates the benefits of his mediation (WLC 154). While our Reformed forebears saw the importance of personal and family devotion (WCF 21.6), they espoused the scripturally-based centrality of hearing and receiving the Word in corporate gatherings.   A pastor recounted the... Continue Reading

A healthy, growing church is one that, by the Word of truth and the medium of grace, realizes the peace of God in unity, and is always maturing as the Body of Christ in its community. We should measure the health of our churches, not by numbers of people, staff, programs, or budgets, but by... Continue Reading

There is a certain attractiveness to this position, particularly when its adherents passionately proclaim the all-sufficient work of Christ. The same of course may be said about certain liberal preachers who exalt Jesus and love. The Christian naturally leaps at the name of Jesus, his finished work, and love. Problems arise when we redefine terms... Continue Reading

The best advice I have for us is to remember the wise counsel we’ve given to other women. Give yourself a pep talk about your true identity, and then remember how much you have to bring to the church.   I’ve believed many lies throughout my life. Different stages led to different misconceptions – some... Continue Reading

I remember some years ago when my sixteen year-old neighbor spent a summer trying to learn how to ride a skateboard. He persisted through embarrassing falls and hostile temperature. And why? I fancy it was because it seem a cool thing to do (and perhaps the girls would love him for it). By the same... Continue Reading

“Once upon a time that was very effective in our country. Those days are long gone. But unfortunately, church leaders still want to leverage ‘the Bible says,’ which is great for people who take the Bible seriously,” said Stanley. “It’s not my audience. … I’m trying to recapture the imagination of people, adults and students... Continue Reading