“Part of expecting God to do something is learning that, whatever you do, he will probably bring the opportunities and the fruit indirectly. He delights to work in ways that prevent us from claiming the glory for what he has done. That frees us up to go forth with confidence, even if our plans are... Continue Reading

“Federal law and Army policy both make clear that chaplains must remain faithful to the tenets of their faith,” First Liberty attorney Michael Berry wrote in the letter. “The failure of a chaplain to do so exposes the chaplain to risk of losing their ecclesiastical endorsement, or worse, violates … federal law and policy…. Squires’... Continue Reading

Although Knowles-Carter has talked about her prayers to God and has worked with pastors on projects, such as helping those affected by Hurricane Harvey in and around her hometown of Houston in August 2017, she has also been criticized by some Christians for her provocative performances.   A San Francisco church will host a “Beyoncé Mass,” featuring... Continue Reading

When a pastor takes some time, after fulfilling his immediate pastoral duties, to engage in theological reading, writing, and, if the Lord wills, publication, he is not participating in mere ivory-tower banter that has no bearing on the life of the church. Rather, by utilizing his gifts and experience in this way your pastor-theologian is... Continue Reading

It’s painful when a pastor leaves a pulpit in question or disgrace. There is no side, despite what the news reports. There is a circular pain without an exit ramp. No Jesus follower wants the kingdom of God to be tarnished, and maybe that’s the only thing any of us can agree on, but at... Continue Reading

In Old School Presbyterianism, especially in the South, theological orthodoxy was deliberately wedded to the culture’s socio-economic structure, indeed, theological orthodoxy became its main proponent and defender, so that, as the twentieth century dawned and theologians looked for ways to break the link between the Presbyterian Church and segregation and Jim Crow, they felt they... Continue Reading

Entertainment is about impressing people and keeping them at arm’s length. Hospitality is about opening up your heart and your home, just as you are, and being willing to invite Jesus into the conversation, not to stop the conversation but to deepen it. Hospitality is fundamentally an act of missional evangelism. And I wouldn’t know... Continue Reading

Christ is purifying his church, and it hurts. And, there is more to go. It pains us to know that too many have been victims at the hands of those in power—the very ones who should have been the protectors of the marginalized and the vulnerable. Silence that many have kept for months, years, sometimes... Continue Reading

One of the great strengths in some churches has been a high percentage of people in Bible study groups or Sunday School classes. The depth of relationships fostered a deeper commitment to the church. And as the number of people in relationships with one another has waned in some churches, transitions can be bumpier, and... Continue Reading

“As a seminary professor and a churchman, I fully understand that seminaries don’t ‘make’ pastors, nor do they equip would-be pastors, missionaries, etc. with everything they need to thrive in ministry. Neither do medical schools, law schools, and so forth.”   Friends over at The Gospel Coalition have been promoting a new book, 15 Things Seminary Couldn’t... Continue Reading