Posts from May 2023
Francis Chan – Favorite Pastors Series
Next up in my Favorite Pastors Series is Francis Chan… Pastor Francis Chan is an influential Christian leader, speaker, and author known for his passion for the Gospel and commitment to radical discipleship. He was born on August 31, 1967, in San Francisco, California, USA. After graduating from John MacArthur’s The Master’s Seminary, Chan served as a youth pastor in several churches before founding Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley, California, in 1994. Under his leadership, the church proliferated and…
The Resilient Savior
Much has been seen and said about Jesus, the “Suffering Savior.” Many books are published detailing His atonement, the ultimate price for the sins of the world. Every doctrinal position and apologetic framework covers this great event and subject matter. Christian and secular historians have researched the implications of this event from either position, be it conservative or liberal. Scientists looking into the brutal torture of the crucifixion have outlined how a body would respond to such cruelty as our…
Warning Signs of a “Woke” or Progressive Christian Church
The modern Christian church landscape is highly diverse, with different denominations and theological perspectives. As society evolves, churches sometimes also adapt to cultural changes. While there is some value in engaging with contemporary issues, many churches have compromised (and even outright abandoned) the eternal values put forth by God in Scripture by changing their attitudes towards social justice and inclusivity issues. I will explore nine warning signs that may indicate a Christian church is embracing a more progressive stance or…
John MacArthur – Favorite Pastors Series
This time out in my Favorite Pastors Series, I’m going to feature one of the most well-known figures in the protestant church today, John MacArthur. If you’re unfamiliar with MacArthur, then read on… Pastor John Fullerton MacArthur Jr., born on June 19, 1939, is an influential figure in the evangelical Christian community, renowned for his biblical scholarship and uncompromising commitment to preaching and teaching God’s Word. With a career spanning over six decades, he has made a significant impact on…
Weeping Into Joy
“Jesus went on to say, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.’ At this, some of his disciples said to one another, ‘What does he mean by saying, “In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me,” and “Because I am going to the Father”?’ They kept asking, ‘What does he mean by “a little while?”…
Making a Lasting Impact: Why Discipling Others is Crucial for Every Christian
As a follower of Jesus Christ, I firmly believe that one of the most critical pursuits we can undertake is discipling others. Discipling is all about pouring into people’s lives, aiding them in their spiritual growth, and empowering them to positively impact the world for the Kingdom of God. It is not merely a suggestion but a royal summons that Jesus has extended to each of us. The Apostle Paul’s message to Timothy offers a clear example of the importance…
Book Review – The Holiness of God by R.C. Sproul
It’s been a while since I’ve done a book review, so why don’t we dip back into one of the all-time greats of the past 50 years. Here is The Holiness of God by R.C. Sproul. The Holiness of God, first published in 1985, is a masterpiece of protestant theological writing that provides readers with a deep understanding of the nature of God’s holiness. Sproul’s insight, biblical knowledge, and ability to articulate complex ideas in a simple way make this book…
John Ankerberg – Favorite Pastors Series
This week’s entry in my Favorite Pastors Series is one on a man who hasn’t made much of an impact for the Kingdom of God from preaching weekly sermons from a pulpit, but instead, has done most of his work in front of a television camera and through the printed page. And through these mediums, John Ankerberg has been a tremendous influence on me and helped in solidifying my Christian beliefs and spiritual discernment. Who is he? Well, Dr. John…
How to Handle Unwelcomed Events
“If you do nothing in a difficult time, your strength is limited.” – Proverbs 24:10 [CSB] Many people talk a good game, and I’ll confess even I’ve been guilty of hyping up what I would do in certain situations. It’s easy to evaluate someone else’s life and offer commentary on what measures should or shouldn’t be taken and yet neglect to take action or make decisions on your own. For instance, we watch horror movies or dramatic television and say,…
Before Starting A Men’s Ministry, Make Sure You Do These 5 Things
Men’s ministry can be a potent tool for building a strong community of Christian men, helping each other to grow as disciples of Christ and as leaders in their homes and communities. The building process of an effective men’s ministry can be a challenging task. Many different elements need to be taken into consideration, from choosing the right leadership team to planning engaging events. However, several things must happen during the initial startup, particularly getting permission from your church or pastor.…
The Four Types of Christian Apologetics
I believe wholeheartedly in the existence of God, that the Bible is the Word of God, and that Jesus was a real person and actually died and rose from the dead. Why? Wishing thinking? Blind faith? No. I have numerous legitimate, factual reasons why I believe in the Christian faith, and I outline several of them in my blog post Top 9 Reasons Why I Believe in Jesus Christ. In that article, I use several arguments from apologetics to make…
D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones – Favorite Pastors Series
As you may have read in my introductory post about creating this Favorite Pastors Series, one of the criteria for being considered to be listed among the hallowed was that the preacher had to have been alive during my lifetime. Since the late D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, who went to be with the Lord in 1981, barely squeaks by, I was elated to be able to include him! Dr. David Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1899-1981) was truly one of the Lord’s greats at…