Failing to Feel: Mistake #2 in Teaching the Bible
Perhaps because we think of the Bible characters as “saints” or as some select group of people who are totally unlike us, we sometimes forget to consider their emotions. We lift the bare facts from the pages of our Bibles and fail to feel the pain, jealousy, regret, or boredom that these people experienced—just like we would if we walked in their shoes. To truly understand the Bible’s message, we must try to understand the Bible’s people. We have to do “emotional archaeology” to connect with their experiences and, ultimately, with God’s character revealed through their stories.
How to Lead an Effective 1:1 Meeting
So you are a pastor, not just preaching and teaching, but also managing a church staff. How do you effectively lead them? One of the most powerful tools at your disposal is the one-on-one meeting. Mastering this skill is essential for any great manager. In my experience, I coach staff managers to focus on three key principles: Care, Clear, and Coach. When your staff knows you genuinely care, have clarity in their roles, and receive regular coaching, they become an unstoppable force for the kingdom. Discover how to take up the role God gave you and manage your team effectively.
Identifying a Fascist
Nothing reveals bias or ignorance like misusing the term “fascist.” It refers to a specific political movement that prioritizes nation and race over the individual, supports autocratic rule, and suppresses opposition. In this exploration, we’ll clarify the definition and ensure we use this powerful word correctly, respecting its history and avoiding misuse in today’s discourse.
What Does it Mean to Make a Profession of Faith?
Maybe you’ve been asked the question before – “have you made a profession of faith?” This concept is not just a church tradition; it has deep biblical roots. Scripture emphasizes that true faith in Jesus should be expressed outwardly, as seen in Romans 10:9-10. Throughout church history, believers have participated in ceremonies to publicly profess their faith, from confirmation in Catholicism to practices in Reformed and Baptist churches. But how does this relate to church membership and baptism? Join us as we explore the significance of making a profession of faith and its impact on your spiritual journey.
Avoiding the Burnout Trap
We all know how it goes: a new volunteer joins the youth ministry with joy and high hopes, only to leave sad and embittered a short time later. This is the story of burnout—a common off-ramp for many volunteers in student ministry. But can we help them avoid it? The answer is YES! By understanding what burnout truly is and clearly defining the role of a student ministry volunteer, we can create an environment that fosters growth and fulfillment. Discover how clarity and thoughtful guidance can transform your ministry and support your volunteers in their calling.
When Mother’s Day Hurts
“Happy Mother’s Day,” the greeter at the church spoke with a smile as I entered into church. That simple greeting, spoken in kindness, brought me to tears. He had no idea I had just lost my unborn child 3 weeks prior. Mother’s Day is a day of celebration, but it can also bring a wave of sorrow for many. Whether you’re grieving a loss, longing for a child, or feeling distant from your own mother, know that God sees your pain. Join me as we explore how to find hope and healing in the midst of heartache this Mother’s Day.
What is Justification?
What is Justification? Simply put, to be justified is to be declared righteous. This crucial concept lies at the heart of the gospel, revealing how sinful people like us can be made right with God. Through the Great Exchange on the cross, Jesus takes our sin and gives us His righteousness. But what does this mean for our relationship with God? How does justification differ between Catholics and Protestants? Dive deeper into this essential doctrine and discover how it shapes our faith and understanding of salvation. Join us as we explore the profound implications of justification in the Christian life.
What is Sanctification?
Sanctification is a profound journey that every believer embarks on after putting their faith in Jesus. While we are justified and declared righteous at salvation, the reality of our daily lives reveals a different story. We don’t become instantly perfect; instead, we enter a lifelong process of growing in likeness to Christ. This transformative journey, often referred to as progressive sanctification, involves ups and downs, but ultimately leads us toward greater holiness. Discover the different dimensions of sanctification and how it shapes our spiritual maturity and relationship with God throughout our lives.
Killing the Characters: Mistake #1 in Teaching the Bible
Have you ever felt like you’re missing something when teaching the Bible? I certainly have. In my journey, I discovered three common mistakes that many Bible teachers make, one of which is “killing the characters.” We often overlook the rich backstories of biblical figures, rushing to application without considering their context. By allowing these characters to “live” in our messages, we can provide deeper understanding and relevance for our listeners. Join me as I explore how to keep the characters alive and enhance the impact of our teachings!
Four Steps to Manageable Sermon Writing
It’s Monday morning, and you have to preach on Sunday. How do you navigate the anxiety of sermon writing without waiting for that lightning-strike idea or cramming on Saturday night? Many pastors struggle with the pressure of creating meaningful messages week after week. The key isn’t just talent or intelligence; it’s having a reliable system. Discover the four essential steps to manageable sermon writing: Generate Ideas, Schedule, Create Drafts, and Edit. By breaking down the process, you can craft sermons that are faithful to Scripture and impactful for your listeners. Ready to transform your sermon preparation?
Why Do We Baptize Babies?
Why would a church that doesn’t identify as “Presbyterian” or “Lutheran” choose to baptize babies? This practice often surprises visitors, but it is rooted in a rich understanding of biblical covenants. Baptism, much like circumcision in the Old Testament, serves as a sign and seal of a promise—a promise of relationship with God. In this article, we explore the deep theological significance behind infant baptism, its historical context, and why we believe it is a vital practice for believers and their children. Join us as we uncover the biblical foundations of this sacred tradition.
Mom Guilt and How to Fight It
I was the perfect mom—before I had kids. Fast forward nine months, and I realized how wrong I was. As the laundry piled up and my patience wore thin, I felt like a failure, overwhelmed by mom guilt. But what if this guilt stems from believing lies, misplaced identity, or even conviction from the Holy Spirit? Discover how recognizing these truths can help us embrace our need for help, shift our focus back to God, and ultimately find freedom from guilt. Join me on this journey to unburden ourselves and celebrate the gift of motherhood through the gospel.