'faith' Tagged Posts
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…
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…
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.…
Charles Stanley – Favorite Pastors Series
While coming up with a list of favorite pastors for this series, there was always one who was a “shoo-in,” one who I never had to debate on whether or not I would include on this list. The man to whom I’m referring passed away today at the age of 90 to be in the presence of Jesus. Of course, I’m talking about none other than the legendary Charles Stanley. Dr. Charles Frazier Stanley was a renowned pastor, theologian, and…
Wisdom & Folly – The Need for Discernment
“‘Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!’ To him who lacks sense, she says,” – Proverbs 9:4 [ESV] In this chapter of Proverbs, the wise man provides us believers with a beautiful contrast to aid us in our life’s journey. Here he depicts Wisdom at the city’s highest point, beckoning to the passersby, mainly the simple saying, “Whoever is inexperienced, enter here!” To the one who lacks sense, she invites into her chambers to receive knowledge and instruction. At…
Don’t Overthink What Could Go Wrong
I just finished watching the 1997 movie “Good Will Hunting,” where a young math genius is a troubled man with a history of criminal activities and abuse from his foster families. Matt Damon’s title character (Will) meets a psychologist named Sean (played by the late great Robin Williams) to help Will find direction in his life. The plan was made to help Will find a career that can showcase his mathematical ability, but Will doesn’t go that route. Sean was…
Larry Rice – Favorite Pastors Series
PHOTO BY NICK SCHNELLE Next in my series of favorite and influential pastors might be a surprising one for many…Larry Rice. The Reverend Larry Rice is a well-known figure in the city of St. Louis, Missouri, where he has put his faith into practice by spending over four decades advocating for the homeless and marginalized. As the founder and director of the New Life Evangelistic Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing shelter, food, and other services to those in…