How can one pastor figure all that out and do the necessary work? I must confess that I often forget that I am one person with finite limitations. The tension only builds as we consider our roles and responsibilities at home, in the community, to our denomination, and to the Kingdom of God in our … Continue reading Intentionally Developing Leaders in the Local Church
Church Matters
Articles related to life in the local Church.
Why Do We Preach? Understanding Our Audience of One
What is the central focus of our preaching?“That was a great sermon, Pastor!” “Pastor, you sure can tell a story. You really told it like it is in that sermon!” “Pastor, you really stepped on my toes. I like it when you make me squirm in my seat.” So go the comments to the typical … Continue reading Why Do We Preach? Understanding Our Audience of One
For God’s People, Silence is Not an Option
Last week, I heard a woman give a short testimony from a favorite passage of mine found in Jeremiah 20. In that passage, the prophet Jeremiah is weary. He’s been beaten (literally) by people he’d thought were his friends, betrayed by his own family and continually ridiculed for delivering a message that God had given … Continue reading For God’s People, Silence is Not an Option
Theological Triage and Local Church Cooperation (Part I)
In 1627, German Lutheran Theologian, Rupertus Meldenius, penned a tract on Christian Unity, in which he writes, "In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, liberty; in all things, charity."[1] These words provide a framework for how believers can respond to one another when we disagree. Meldinius's words are a distant echo from the Scriptures, which call believers … Continue reading Theological Triage and Local Church Cooperation (Part I)
Unity in Christ (Part 1): The View from 1 Corinthians 1:1-9
On June 16, 1858, Abraham Lincoln addressed 1,000 delegates in the statehouse of Springfield, Illinois. Later that day he was selected as their candidate for U.S. Senate. He infused his acceptance speech with an opportunity to address a pressing matter in the U.S. A portion of his speech is as follows: "Mr. President and Gentlemen … Continue reading Unity in Christ (Part 1): The View from 1 Corinthians 1:1-9
Through Lenses and Lights to Hearts Afar
Here are some personal heart-felt thoughts about what it is like for me to Pastor and Preach in our current circumstances. I am so thankful for Wayne Hills Baptist Church and the grace you extend to me each week to lead and teach you. It is 9:30 am—It is Sunday morning and I am preparing … Continue reading Through Lenses and Lights to Hearts Afar
Valley Shepherds 