Posts from 2023 (Page 2)
The Impact of Lead Pastor Involvement on Men’s Ministry: Insights from Patrick Morley
The role of men within the church is absolutely crucial for fostering powerful growth in Christ both at home and in our communities. However, men’s ministry often struggles to attract consistent attendance and active involvement. In this blog post, we will explore the powerful influence that the lead pastor’s involvement can have on men’s ministry, drawing insights from the teachings of renowned Christian author and speaker Patrick “Pat” Morley of Man in the Mirror. Morley, through both his books and…
Real Evidence That You Have the Holy Spirit
Once you have the Holy Spirit, you will be empowered by Him to glorify Christ in and through your life. When you think of the Holy Spirit, what comes to your mind? Different tongues and miracles come to some people’s minds. Others think of current Pentecostal believers who keep saying Hallelujah in their prayers and preaching. On the other hand, others think that all the gifts of the miracles and gifts of different tongues are ceased. Amid all the opinions,…
David Carter, Jr. – Favorite Pastors Series
I would be remiss if I failed to include Pastor David Carter, Jr among the ranks of my favorite preachers of all time. This entry is very personal to me. Dave is my friend, my former pastor, and my former fellow Elder at Bayfair Baptist Church, and someone whom I’ve fought alongside with in the trenches of spiritual warfare. God has used him in bountiful ways to grow me and my wife spiritually. Dave is someone who God has placed…
How To Roll Your Problems To God
In life, we all face challenges and obstacles that can sometimes feel overwhelming. It’s easy to get caught up in our problems and become consumed with worry and stress. However, as disciples of Jesus Christ, we have a powerful tool that we can use to help us navigate through difficult times. That tool is prayer, and as I like to phrase it, “rolling our problems” to God. Proverbs 16:3 AMPC says, “Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust…
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.…
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…
Trust God, But Prepare Your Horse
I can only imagine what God feels as we place our burdens and cares upon Him. Regardless of the load, He invites us to put our concerns upon Him according to 1 Peter 5:7, which says, “casting all your care on Him, because He cares about you.” However, depending upon the Almighty, we must not forfeit our human responsibility in casting our burdens or, in this case, preparing our horses. Trusting in God is a sweet refrain, but we mustn’t…
Steven Lawson – Favorite Pastors Series
Dr. Steven J. Lawson is a Christian pastor, author, and speaker known for his expository preaching and teaching. He was born in 1951 in Texas and grew up in a Christian family. Lawson earned his bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University, his Master of Divinity from The Master’s Seminary, and his Doctor of Ministry from Reformed Theological Seminary. Lawson has served as a pastor for several churches throughout his career, including as the senior pastor of Christ Fellowship Baptist Church…
77 Relevant (and Biblical) Topics for Men’s Ministry Discussions
Are you a men’s ministry leader looking for fresh and engaging topics to discuss with the men in your church or community? Look no further! I’ve compiled a list of 77 relevant and timely men’s ministry topics that will inspire and challenge men to grow in their faith, relationships, and impact on the world for the Lord Jesus Christ. From leadership and fatherhood to addiction recovery and technology, these topics are designed to meet men where they are and help…
Spiritual Amnesia
“When the Lord your God brings you into the land He swore to your fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that He would give you–a land with large and beautiful cities that you did not build, houses full of every good thing that you did not fill them with, wells dug that you did not dig, and vineyards and olive groves that you did not plant–and when you eat and are satisfied, be careful not to forget the Lord who brought…
Suffering for Doing Good
Why do we struggle? Does it mean we did something wrong? Not exactly! 1 Peter 3:13-14 says, “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed” [NIV]. We struggle to be like Christ, carrying our own cross. Matthew 16:24-25 says, “Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.…