"The promise of true change is a little unbelievable, isn’t it? It’s the stuff of comic strips and childhood daydreams. But make no mistake: this is exactly what Christianity promises— true and real change. Divine pardon. Reconciliation with God. Smashed idols. A new spirit. A new self. A new family. Since this year’s Together for the Gospel theme is the Underestimated Gospel, we thought we’d jump on the bandwagon and devote the pre-T4 ..."
"Quick, before you make another move, pastor, read this Journal! If you’re thinking of leaving your church for another, start with Michael Lawrence’s article on leaving wisely. In fact, look at Matt Schmucker’s even before you think about leaving. Have you looked yet? Okay, what about now? I’ve seen enough pastors come and go to know that Lawrence and Schmucker just might shift your paradigm. Or maybe the process of searching has begun ..."
"Jesus came to deacon (Mark 10:45; Rom. 15:8). So did Paul, Apollos, and Tychicus (1 Cor. 3:5, 6; Eph. 3:7; 6:21; Col. 4:7). And the greatest among us will be deacons (Mark 10:43). It’s not a bad label to wear, apparently. The New Testament only mentions this unassuming office two, maybe three times (Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:8-13; cf. Rom. 16:1). But pay attention. It also seems to direct the deacon’s attention to the church’s physical good, ..."