Paul exhorts us, “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer” (Romans 12:12). But I lacked patience in this ministry conflict. I was often in fighting mode instead. That was unwise and obviously worsened the conflict.   “Brother, being called to pastoral ministry is the greatest privilege in this world. It’s a... Continue Reading

As Presbyteries continue to discuss the work of the AIC [Ad Interim Committee], with recommendations scheduled for consideration at the 46th General Assembly in June 2026, PPL editors encouraged readers to examine and consider signing the Red Line Statement. This declaration affirms that “the high calling of ordination is incompatible with a settled identification as... Continue Reading

“Sermons are not to be prepared in the study but, to use a Puritan expression, “sermons are prepared in the closet.” The “closet” is the place where you engage with God. Open before you is the text of scripture which you’re studying, but you’re having dealings with God as to how He would have this... Continue Reading

I want to remind readers that I am writing a plea, not a charge. I recognize that some PCA churches practice non-ordained commissioned deaconesses in different ways, with some being more extreme than others. My basic plea is that the arguments I have presented outweigh the reasons for maintaining this practice.   This is the sixth article... Continue Reading

The fallibility of humanity should not stop churches from pursuing beauty in our worship. And this beauty is not just for ourselves. A glorious church or work of art is a gift to its community and even the world. A magnificent cathedral gives a beauty and glory to the city it is in. This is... Continue Reading

If a presbytery believes non-ordained commissioned deaconesses should be part of our polity, are convicted by scripture women should serve as deacons, the proper course would be to propose an overture to the General Assembly. However, I am confident that this practice is inconsistent with our two-office system and the intent of the BCO.   This is the... Continue Reading

Despite others’ perceptions of their ministries, pastors in rural areas see current ministry wins and are optimistic about the future. “The focus of rural pastors is definitely on the spiritual growth of the individuals in their congregations. Pastors celebrate when they see their congregations showing the impact of Jesus Christ, and they lament when there... Continue Reading

So what kind of leaders do we need? If not driven by ambition, ideology or expediency, what other drive is there? Mission.   Every week, it seems there is another religious leader revealed to have a hidden shadow life of immorality, a ruthless approach to power and control, or a narcissistic personality. Is it just... Continue Reading

Hope is meant to sustain us with a vision of joy to come. Our hope may be stoked by sorrow or by joy, but the Christian worship service is another great incubator for this hope.   For the Christian, the corporate worship service is (ideally) the highlight of the week. Yes, that gathering is a... Continue Reading

The gate stands for the choice that a person makes here in this life which leads to a final destiny. The right initial choice leads to sanctification, whereas the wrong entry point leads to destruction. The contrast is between life and death. Which gate have you entered? All persons have either entered by one gate... Continue Reading