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Are We “Off” Our Game?
I was in a discussion today with a fellow pastor about the passionate issues of our day. As we discussed gay marriage, the economy, and other hot topics, something began to occur to us. At first he said, “The Church is off focus. It’s off it’s target.” Then, I thought, “Wait. It’s more. So is the government.” BOTH are “off…
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Are We Faithful or Are We Drifting?
Doom, obstinate one, the defiled one, the violent city. 2 She listened to no voice; she accepted no discipline. She didn’t trust in the Lord, nor did she draw near to her God. 3 The princes in her midst are roaring lions. Her judges are wolves of the evening; they leave nothing for the morning. 4 Her prophets are reckless, men of treachery. Her…
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Isn’t It Time to Leave Egypt?
4 You saw what I did to the Egyptians, and how I lifted you up on eagles’ wings and brought you to me. (Ex. 19:4, CEB) There are so many thoughts, discussion, articles, etc., on the angst of the American Church. There are some I agree with, and some I don’t. There are certainly those who are so politicized that the…
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Could I Invite You to LOVE the Body of Christ?
1 Therefore, I have a request for the elders among you. (I ask this as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and as one who shares in the glory that is about to be revealed.) I urge the elders: 2 Like shepherds, tend the flock of God among you. Watch over it. Don’t shepherd because you must, but do it…
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The Changing Face of Christianity
The Archbishop of Canterbury is resigning. Mark Stevens wants the job. I’d vote for him if I had a vote. The issue with the Catholic Church and the Anglican Church is similar. The Catholic Church will face the selection of a new pope before too long, I’m sure. When Pope John Paul II died, they had the opportunity to step…
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To My Pastor Friends
13 Jesus went up on a mountain and called those he wanted, and they came to him. 14 He appointed twelve and called them apostles. He appointed them to be with him, to be sent out to preach, 15 and to have authority to throw out demons. (Mark 3:13-15, CEB) There is a sacredness to our calling. We can get…
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“Spiritual”… Not “Religious”
For those making that claim, my contention is that the best way to be “spiritual” is to understand where real spirituality is found. 4 As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him— 5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood,…
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Passage and Thoughts Challenging Me Lately
11 He gave some apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers. 12 His purpose was to equip God’s people for the work of serving and building up the body of Christ 13 until we all reach the unity of faith and knowledge of God’s Son. God’s goal is for us to become mature adults—to be fully grown,…
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Pastors as Theologians
One of the topics I have wrestled with for quite some time is the idea of pastors as theologians, or theologians as pastors. As a pastor, I have grown over the years in my ability to think theologically. I earned my Master’s 20 years after I finished my BA. I love pastoring. What I have become more convinced of is…
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Blue Chips and Junk Bonds
David Brooks is one of my favorite columnists. This column discusses politics, but it reminds me of a conversation I had regarding ministry as well. Brooks’s contention is that liberals have allowed short term gains to cloud their vision for long term good. The conversation I had regarding churches and ministry was much the same. American churches are investing in…
Category: Church
