God’s design of the Church

Regardless of whether you are called to pastoral ministry or itinerant (evangelistic travel), it is important that you understand the Biblical foundation and design of the church. The ministry of the church is astoundingly vital to every believer. For those that are homebound, there must be a ministry to show them the compassion of Jesus.Continue reading “God’s design of the Church”

The beauty of praise

The scene is set in Heaven right now.  It establishes a precedent for the promise of the new Heaven to come.  The example we find teaches us valuable praise.  I am referring to the fourth and fifth chapter of The Revelation of Jesus Christ that was given to John on the Isle of Patmos.  TheseContinue reading “The beauty of praise”

Why do we lack discernment?

When Jesus was asked to speak about the end times, one of the signs He gave was the deception of God’s people (Mt. 24:24).  Other passages warn us of false prophets (2 Thess. 2:3; 2 Tim. 4:1, 3-42 Pet. 2:2, 12-13), Satan (2 Thess. 2:9-12), and personal deception (1 Cor. 6:9-10; Gal. 6:6-8).  How doesContinue reading “Why do we lack discernment?”

The need for learning pastors.

If one thing is clear from the pastoral epistles (I, II Timothy and Titus), the burden to be learners.  Perhaps the most straightforward command is found in II Timothy 2:15-16, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth, but shun profane andContinue reading “The need for learning pastors.”

Our Lord

God has revealed Himself in nature and through special revelation. Some Scriptures that present this truth are: Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:20; Romans 10:17. Though the existence of God is clearly seen in nature we understand that salvation only comes through God’s revelation of Himself through Jesus Christ and faith in Him as brought by theContinue reading “Our Lord”

Going to Church: Why do we gather?

In a recent presentation by Barna Research and Pepperdine University, it was shared that Church attendance is a decreasing expectation (watch here; find it at the 48:30 mark).  Changes in family dynamics, more distractions, and a lack of commitment to a local congregation have all contributed to this new reality.  As Church leaders, this isContinue reading “Going to Church: Why do we gather?”