Texts, e-mails, contracts, and other forms of communication all share a foundational element. They must be understood in light of the author’s intended meaning. This detail is known intuitively and must be honored for communication to occur. When I send my wife a text, I intend for her to understand what it is I’m writing and why. If she were to interpret the message in any way she feels, my message may be lost entirely. Some intentionally conceal their intended meaning Read the rest of this entry »
“Here try this.” Have you been told this lately? Quite frankly we hear this more often than we care to in our product driven society. We are surrounded by billboards, e-mail ads, web-site banners, and commercials, all trying to convince us that we are in need of the product or service advertised. Now, I don’t have a problem with trying a new coffee bean or restaurant or even, when the situation dictates, a new pair of jeans, but marketing attempts don’t usually affect me much. I recently encountered another “Here try this!” that left me scratching my head and wondering about the unintended message it communicates in a consumer oriented culture.
While sitting in traffic, I began reading the bumper stickers on the rear of the vehicle before me. One sticker simply said, “Try Jesus.” Harmless enough right? Read the rest of this entry »
Do I really have to? This question is often heard when kids try to get out of having to do something. It’s not enjoyable. It’s not convenient. There’s no immediate pay-off. So, therefore the question, ‘Do I really have to?’ This doesn’t only happen with kids though.
We hear the question coming from employees, students, and even the citizenry of communities. No one likes the responsibility of doing things they don’t find convenient or fun. No one likes to be told what to do. This is a mark of our society. Individuals don’t like being under authority and measure most everything by its ‘fun’ factor. This reality has even affected the way people perceive preaching. Read the rest of this entry »
Our corporate experience motivates, informs, and holds accountable our . . .
• Shared identity. We are not saved as individuals to then be left as individuals walking with Jesus one on one. Therefore, we are not free to think of our faith as only a personal or private matter (we are a: flock – Jn. 10:16; temple – Eph. 2:21, 22; household – Eph. 2:19; body – Eph. 1:22-23; church – Matt. 16:18, 1 Tim. 3:15; bride – Rev. 19:7, 21:9; new humanity – Eph. 4:22-24; holy nation – 1 Pet. 2:9; royal priesthood – 1 Pet. 2:9; a chosen people – 1 Pet. 2:9; possession of God – 1 Pet. 2:9).
• Congregational gatherings. In light of what we share and need, we are to gather regularly to stimulate one another to good works to the glory of God (Heb. 10:19-25).
• Evangelistic efforts. Our unity demonstrates that God Read the rest of this entry »
Does the Biblical concept of inheritance impact our daily lives? We often regard this matter of our faith as something of a future blessing. It’s about Heaven after all and therefore we look forward to it while not considering its immediate implications. Yet, when considered appropriately, we recognize the practical effects this Biblical truth produces beyond the confidence and encouragement it brings. Read the rest of this entry »
This past weekend I heard a news story on a Christian radio station regarding the ministry efforts of a Florida church. The story related their efforts at providing people in their area with the option of doing church via the internet. Unfortunately, they are not the only group attempting this kind of ‘church.’ When asked about those participating on-line rather than in person, one of the pastors stated, ‘…this will give people the full affect of church.’ Is this true? Are people able to get the ‘full affect’ of church by participating in such a format? Maybe this question itself betrays an error Read the rest of this entry »
Does it matter what an individual’s motive is when he or she acts? Think about it. You happen to witness a woman getting mugged and at the same time realize that your boss is standing some distance away, what do you do? You normally avoid involvement. Yet, knowing that your boss is observing the situation you decide to subdue the aggressor. You protect the lady, return her purse, and aid in the capture of her mugger. You are declared a hero. Your boss applauds your efforts and recognizes your selflessness at an office party.
In light of your self-promotion, which motivated you to get involved, were your actions truly ethical? Read the rest of this entry »
We’re often told “don’t sweat the small stuff.” There’s so much out ‘there’ to occupy our time and energy. Why get bogged down in details? Well, the last three years, for me, reveal the wisdom of doing just the opposite…sweating the small stuff.
There are actually quite a number of examples one could turn to that would prove small stuff can make or break us. Just ask an accountant, soldier, or engineer and you’ll get quite an ear full on the importance of details that most would like to simply rush through. Ministry is no different. Read the rest of this entry »
One of the more difficult challenges facing pastors and churches when considering church discipline and responsible church membership is the fear of the unknown. These biblical responsibilities have been neglected for so long that few understand them or have seen them in practice. Add to this the desire to keep ‘the peace’ by avoiding offence and you have a recipe for congregational paralysis. What is a pastor or church to do in such circumstances? Read the rest of this entry »
The following books have proven to be very helpful in explaining the importance of church membership and its many implications.
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