How can pastors know who to trust in the church? Is it ok for a pastor to be friends with people in the congregation? We break down this sometimes emotional but necessary topic for local church pastors. This episode brought to you by the Christian Standard Bible and Simple Church Tools. Subscribe: iTunes ● Google Play Follow us on Twitter: @estchurch, @jowiki, @micahfries, and @samrainer. Read more [...]
A statistic looms over my denomination: About 80% of our churches are either declining or plateaued. I want to be part of the solution, not part of the problem. I’m doing my best to shepherd my church to be more effective at reaching and keeping people. It’s not easy, but I love every day of the effort. We should celebrate the 20% of growing churches in our denomination, but this post is about the larger group—those declining and plateaued. The urgency is palpable when people quote Read more [...]
On this episode, we break down the actual delivery of a sermon. We touch on topics such as safety blankets and rituals, pre-preaching thoughts, and what to eat before preaching. This episode brought to you by the Christian Standard Bible and Simple Church Tools. Subscribe: iTunes ● Google Play Follow us on Twitter: @estchurch, @jowiki, @micahfries, and @samrainer. Read more [...]
On Sunday, our church gathered at a local beach and baptized thirteen people. It’s one of my favorite corporate gatherings every year. Combine food, sand, salt water, and baptism—now that’s something this Baptist can get excited about. But our beach baptism Sundays are more than a time of fellowship. They are strategic. Here is why. Beach baptisms are public. When we’re at the beach baptizing people, it’s obvious. Others will gather, mingle, and watch with our church. They Read more [...]
This sermon series is based on Old Testament characters. The point of the series is to explain how God draws us near. This sermon covers the character of Job. Even when suffering causes us to feel far from God, He is drawing us near. God is both powerful and good. If God does not exist, then there is nothing to complain about when you’re suffering. Satan is defeated through suffering.
Three notable articles I read this week: Jenny Funderburke – What if my kid doesn’t have any friends at church? “Friendships between kids can be challenging regardless, but church is a different dynamic because of the limited amount of time kids spend there each week. It can be hard to make significant friendships in an hour or two a week. There are, however, things that you and I can do as parents that can better or even worsen the situation.” Daniel Darling – Some thoughts Read more [...]
Since I transitioned from the corporate world over a decade ago, I’ve been asked several times, “What’s the biggest surprise about being in ministry?” They are many, like having to lead worship from a karaoke machine at my first church (I’m not musically gifted, at all). Or dealing with insurance claims after our church was struck by lightening... twice in a month (I double-checked my theology after the second strike). Ministry is synonymous with surprises. Among the biggest Read more [...]
http://www.westbradenton.org/assets/2079/170423_dntg_jacob_wrestles.mp3 Last Sunday I began a new series on Old Testament characters. The point of the series is to explain how God draws us near. This sermon covers the character of Jacob in Genesis. God draws us near by exposing the true struggle in our lives. When we wrestle with God, we want something from God instead of God Himself. When we wrestle with God, our wounds are a sign of His grace. When we wrestle with God, we Read more [...]
How much should you change your worship services for holidays such as Christmas and Easter? Josh, Micah, and I discuss what we do and offer some suggestions. This episode brought to you by the Christian Standard Bible. One of the most common questions I get as a pastor is, “What translation of the Bible should I use?”’ The Christian Standard Bible is my answer for two main reasons. First, it’s accurate and the most up-to-date translation available. Second, Read more [...]
Leadership literature is chock-full of ways in which an average leader can become great. We all believe we’re good. Greatness is just a book, a conference, or a degree away. Indeed, I believe run-of-the-mill leaders can become better with training. A desire to learn, self-awareness, and a solid work ethic go a long way. Some leaders, however, are just bad. They don’t lead well. Poor decisions are normative. I believe most pastors want to lead their congregations in a way honoring Read more [...]
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