While intentional goals, these marks were/are not, of course, all perfectly manifested at all times, in all places. There is sin and failure. But gospel proclamation, preaching through the whole of Scripture, with loving, intentional discipleship, accountability and vision, creates a grace-saturated, growing, Christ centered community. Ultimately, of course, it is all God’s gracious work,... Continue Reading

The effectiveness of Paul’s ministry was dependent on the work of the Spirit at every point.  We can teach the mind, but it the Spirit who will reach the heart. A church works properly through faithful leadership. Faithful to Christ, to His Word, to their word, to their call, to the people.   “Busy bodies,... Continue Reading

It’s easy for people in our congregation to know in their heads that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, but to act and speak in ways that reveal a different understanding: that good works bring good rewards.   As a church leader, you’ve probably noticed that when your assumptions are incorrect, you’re more likely... Continue Reading

“Outside those walls—in schools, hospitals and of course, in businesses—the “price of citizenship” is that you relinquish your faith and its life-guiding principles. First Amendment “free exercise” becomes as meaningless as “LGBT tolerance.” “And of course, this church-based “safety” is insecure as well. It’s only a matter of time until the fascist elements decide they’ve... Continue Reading

Women’s ministry in the church has always been about knowing God and knowing His word, sharing the gospel with the needy and broken, and caring about the welfare of the country in which one lives. Yes, at times we women have gotten distracted by the fun of tea parties and bazaars; but on the whole,... Continue Reading

We did not get that building. That building was sold and, if I understand correctly, will soon be torn down. In the end the denominational leaders charged with selling it did not want the gospel in that building, they wanted money out of that building. They needed the money to help support two more of... Continue Reading

Charles A. Hickey, Pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church of Northern Kentucky (PCA) in Ludlow, Ky., provided this resolution adopted by the Session. He wrote, “The Trinity PCA Session had concerns about women in military service and spent a great deal of time preparing the statement on Women in the Military. We believe it necessary for... Continue Reading

Finally, there is one essential element that must exist in this process. It is the key to possessing the zeal required in this search. That is, a constant feeling of uneasiness that should exist in you knowing you and your family are not in covenant fellowship with a local church and are not under the... Continue Reading

For some reason, churches have focused on providing more for pastors when they crash rather than offering preventive measures for emotional health. It doesn’t have to be that way. It shouldn’t be that way. You can help your pastor feel better, get better, and maintain his emotional health. You don’t have to be a large... Continue Reading

Prominent bishops are pulling out. Convention-goers were told headquarters had spent $18 million suing local congregations. Members are leaving at a record rate. “Liberal Christianity has been hailed by its boosters for 40 years as the future of the Christian church. Instead, as all but a few die-hards now admit, the mainline churches that have... Continue Reading