PCUSA Presbytery of the James Seizes Control of Virginia Church
The withdrawing group, the Church in Restoration (EPC), had its inaugural service Feb. 24 with more than 600 in attendance
During that meeting, the session of New Hanover Presbyterian Church expressed its unanimous intent to leave the denomination and graciously indicated its desire to help the Administrative Commission provide for the transition of members wanting to leave the church and pray for those who choose to remain. Because of the session’s unwillingness to stay and... Continue Reading
Debunking Megachurch Myths
Especially the One About Sheep Swapping
Yes, there are some terrible megachurches. Just like there are some terrible churches that run 125 every week. But my job, and yours, is not to indiscriminately cast stones at every church that happens to be, or not to be, a certain size. So this week inadvertently turned into Megachurch Week on the blog.... Continue Reading
The Senior Adult Dilemma, Part 2
If we want to reduce the amount of stress and heartache experienced both by church leaders and seniors a modified approach to discipleship is needed
Far from “callous disregard” for seniors’ concerns, those entrusted with spiritual leadership should help seniors see their true needs, learn to trust God instead of routines, and continue to press on toward the goal of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. In my last post I explored a few issues involved with... Continue Reading
Study: To Use or Not Use the Denomination’s Name in the Local Church Name?
New study looks at the impact of denominational references in church names
The study asked both the unchurched and people who regularly attend a denominational Protestant church about the impact of a church including a denominational reference in its name….The research reveals that the decision to include or exclude a denominational reference in the name is a two-edged sword, with advantages and disadvantages to both choices. ... Continue Reading
I Confess: The Discipline of Being Confessional (Part III)
Confessions help prevent or at least hinder cults of personality
This is one reason why confessionalism runs counter to the evangelical passion for Top Men and for making parachurch organisations functionally more significant for identity than local churches and ecclesiastical denominations. Not that all parachurches do this: seminaries, groups like the Alliance with very limited briefs, and charities focused on particular issues are unlikely ever... Continue Reading
Ten Basic Facts about the NT Canon that Every Christian Should Memorize: #3
The New Testament Books Are Unique Because They Are Apostolic Books
For obvious reasons, the church would value apostolic books over and above other type of books. And this is exactly what happened. The books that the church regarded as apostolic were the books that were read, copied, and used most often in early Christian worship. These are the books that eventually became the New Testament... Continue Reading
Robert Murray McCheyne on the Dangers and Advantages of a Daily Bible Reading Plan
How do we take advantage of the benefits without suffering the harm of the dangers?
Every wise and seasoned Christian leader I have ever heard has told me the same thing: You need the daily discipline of getting up early and reading the Bible and praying for an hour. I do not deny the wisdom of this advice, but I have often thought that we seek out a “one-size-fits-all” solution... Continue Reading
How Much Is Left to Do in the Great Commission?
If God grants the passion and courage and wisdom, the remaining task is neither vague, nor enormous, nor unattainable
We should be dumbfounded at how doable the remaining task of world missions is. Before I show this, let’s clarify some definitions. Missions is not the same as evangelism. Evangelism is sharing the gospel with any unbelievers, and that work will never be done till Jesus comes. Missions, on the other hand, relates to people... Continue Reading
A New ‘Old School’ Church in a Beloved Old City
An interview with Jon Payne about a new church plant in Charleston, S.C.
Our approach to church planting, therefore, will focus not upon gimmicks, strategies and programs, but upon a winsome and warmhearted proclamation of Christ through Word and sacrament, and an utter dependence upon God in prayer. And of course, from reverent and biblical worship will flow all manner of kingdom work such as discipleship, evangelism and... Continue Reading
How Much Should A Local Church Depend Upon One Pastor?
My “motto” for pastoral ministry: “Expendable, But Appreciated”
Empower biblically qualified people to do the work with you. Share the responsibility, authority, and equipping of your people and the ministry you do. I am confident that you will not only see God work in more fruitful healthy ways, but you will be more “appreciated” by your people for it. Isn’t it amazing... Continue Reading
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