by Darren M. McClellan How does one begin to define the mission of the church? For those with an historic commitment to “one Lord, one faith, and one baptism,” we might think that most Christians would respond with some consistency (something along the lines of disciple-making); but alas, much of our experience as the church…
by Darren M. McClellan Some years ago, a man confessed to his pastor an occurrence in which his good intentions had gone awry. This was his story: believing it was time for him to ‘step up’ his efforts as the spiritual leader of his household, the man decided to rededicate himself to the discipline of…
by Chris Surber In John 14:27 Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (ESV) The promise of peace is common in the Bible but it is rare in…
by Nancy Petrey As Christians there are many roles we play in our relationship with Jesus Christ. We are disciples, friends, worshipers, servants, children, sheep, joint-heirs, subjects, ambassadors, soldiers, and the bride of Christ. These are wonderful roles, and God makes it possible for us to fulfill them all. But we must not lose sight…
by Shauna Marie Hyde (For the complete post, click here) I won’t lie; I struggle as a Christian pastor. There was a time when I wore my clerical collar with great pride and now sometimes I wonder if I really want to put it on. The Christian church is failing and it is sad to…
Bob LaRochelle (Crossing the Street, So Much Older Then …) points us to an interview with Rev. Loren Mead, founder of the Alban Institute, in which he talks about the importance of the local church. Here’s a taste: What I saw was a church that largely discounted the life of the local congregation. At the…
Andrew Rozalowsky, blogger, seminary student, cancer survivor, and lover of God’s Word, interviews David Alan Black on the subject of scholarship in service of the church.
Energion Publications’ author, Allan R. Bevere hit a bullseye today with his blog, Distracted from Discipleship: A Lectionary Reflection on Matthew 22:1-14. Dr Bevere writes: I am convinced that the number one problem in the Western church today is that we are not very good at making disciples of Jesus Christ. We are too distracted with…
— Rev. Dr. Robert R. LaRochelle In the community where I serve as pastor of a local church, my congregation is hosting a service next week to celebrate the Week of Christian Unity. I am excited that several local Christian congregations, both Protestant and Roman Catholic, are joining in this important effort. I am likewise…
No one among the church outright desires to usurp Christ’s authority. Everyone – if asked – would profess that they desire to live under the rule of Jesus Christ as Master and Lord of their life. However, that does not mean that we always succeed in living “under Christ’s archy.” (Where have I heard that…