As one of my friends likes to say: “Presbyterianism exists because conflict and differences exist in the church.” In recognizing the minority’s right and privilege to be heard as publicly and broadly as possible, Presbyterianism fosters an environment where each side can be heard publicly and openly, evidences and reasons can be carefully weighed, and... Continue Reading

The suspects, all Romanian citizens, are accused of stealing donation checks from church mailboxes, hitting as many as 85 churches a day. A variety of aliases were used to deposit stolen checks into numerous bank accounts as well as sending high-value wire transfers to Romania. “We’re more concerned for the peril of the thieves, at... Continue Reading

It might seem strange to some readers that pastors suffer from depression. After all, you might think, surely they are supposed to have it all together mentally as well as spiritually… Reading the stories of these men is sobering. It is difficult, isn’t it, to read about someone harming themselves or even attempting suicide. But... Continue Reading

“I tell you the story, brethren, because you sometimes may not understand your own experience, and the perfect people may condemn you for having it; but what know they of God’s servants? You and I have to suffer much for the sake of the people of our charge? You may be in Egyptian darkness, and... Continue Reading

Does COVID change the structure of our society? Does it change the relationship between the home and the state or the relationship between the church and the state? Does the state serve the people or do the people serve the state? Does the health care system serve the people or do the people serve the... Continue Reading

We need to pray for the church in Canada that she will be faithful to her Lord amid this pandemic. Many pastors think that the actions of a very small minority are actually hindering their Gospel witness. We need to pray for the resisters and their families.   As most of my readers know, I have... Continue Reading

Though sex is a wonderful and sacred aspect of marriage, there is much more than a linkage of two bodies. A whole marriage also joins the souls of two people so there is a harmonization of their minds, emotions, and wills. Even more important is the union of spirit in which they share a strong... Continue Reading

Churches must work to cultivate community. The signs are all around. Our world is lonely. People are crying out for community, relationships, and friends. In other words, people are longing for the things that churches are created to provide. Get busy. Here are a few steps you might take in your church to cultivate community:... Continue Reading

 There is no doubt that much has been placed on the plate of the Minister in the 21st Century that is not on his menu. This does not mean he has no real work to do in helping with pruning and the like, but it is the responsibility of the Ruling Elder to make first... Continue Reading

Holy discourse seeks to apply the blood-bought benefits of Christ to the deepest recesses of the human heart. Holy discourse fans zeal for Christ, strengthens understanding of Scripture, reinforces doctrinal orthodoxy, unearths destructive patterns of thought, addresses beleaguered souls, nurtures preserving prayer, bridles gossip and backbiting, deepens compassion for others, and develops skills of soul... Continue Reading