Many in the ancient community complain that very little has changed in their lives since el-Sissi took office in 2014, especially in rural areas where Muslim radicals frequently attack Christian homes and businesses over a range of issues, including the construction or restoration of churches, land disputes or sexual affairs between members of each community.... Continue Reading

But churches and pastors can also succumb to this tendency of devoting the majority of their attention to problems and complaints at the expense of the vast majority who are living steady godly lives and serving the Lord fruitfully. While we must not run away from problems and we must address legitimate complaints, church leaders must be resolute in their determination to prevent problems and complaints setting the agenda and dominating their time and attention.

I discovered the biblical principle of Sabbath, setting aside one day a week to connect with God, to remind myself that God is God, and I am not. In our 24/7, always-connected, constantly-available world, this can be one of the hardest commands in the entire Bible to follow. It was for me. Why? Because I often believe the lie that I’m in control of things that are beyond me.

“Ministering to men and women who are victims of sexual abuse can be tricky; there are several common mistakes that pastors make. By being aware of these pitfalls, you can be better prepared the next time an incident arises within your church.”   When individuals tell you, Pastor, that they were sexually abused or raped,... Continue Reading

Because reality sets in. The honeymoon is that period where each of two parties sees the other through idyllic lenses. But the pastor and the congregation will soon discover that neither is perfect. Indeed, each party may be even more critical of the other because the idyllic period seemed so bliss. The new era becomes a stark contrast.

When we remember that it is the same God who served up our circumstances through his providence that calls us to be content in him, then we can rest in him. It is natural for us to complain and desire a change of circumstances. However, it is supernatural to be able to joyfully rest in God when things are not going the way we want them to.

Many began to notice a growing trend within PCA churches and ministries that put an almost exclusive emphasis upon justification, to the considerable neglect of sanctification. Some taught that sanctification was no more than looking back to one’s justification, with no real emphasis upon spiritual growth and godliness. Thus, these pastors began a conversation about... Continue Reading

“For now, let me share some key reasons many of our congregations have become more like country clubs than churches, a place where some members demand their way instead of serving and self-sacrificing.”   In 1974 Burger King made a bold move to take market share from McDonald’s. At the time, McDonald’s made burgers en... Continue Reading

“Other prominent Christian leaders unwelcome in Vancouver churches include a chap with no surname calling himself Jesus, who alienated ecclesiastical panjandrums by calling them snakes and Saul of Tarsus who demonstrated a worrying, dehumanizing insensitivity when he invited his opponents to remove their own testicles.   A growing number of Christians in Metro Vancouver want... Continue Reading

“The task force is trying to solve an internal examination problem when the deeper issue is those preparing to pastor PCUSA churches don’t resonate with Psalm 119. They are not hungering, thirsting, aching nor yearning to know the Word of God nor to have their lives conformed to it,” added LaBerge.   The Presbyterian Church... Continue Reading