Patchwork Theology
When I was in high school, my math teachers made me show my work. When our class was given a test, we were given a sheet filled with problems and the best teachers would leave plenty of blank space on the test paper to work out the problems. Why? Because according to my teachers, knowing […]
When Seminary Prepares the Mind—but Ministry Tests the Heart: Why the Engage Church Network School of Ministry Matters
Seminaries equip us with theology, exegesis, and biblical languages. All of this is important in building a foundation for someone entrusted in feeding the flock of God as a shepherd. But the role of a shepherd also includes leading and protecting the flock. Leading a congregation is terrain that tests vision, team dynamics, emotional resilience, […]
Keeping a Journal
Growing up Southern Baptist, I was expected to attend Sunday morning and evening worship services, Sunday School, Church Training and of course, Wednesday night fellowship dinner and prayer meeting. I was also encouraged to have a “daily quiet time” that was expected to last about ten minutes. The plan was to read a passage of […]
I Stand by the Door – the case for evangelistic commitment
Written by Samuel Shoemaker Here is a piece from Sam Shoemaker that I run across from time to time. Want to share it with you. Sam Shoemaker(1893-1963) was an Episcopal priest who was instrumental in the Oxford Group and founding principles of Alcoholics Anonymous. He was the rector of the Calvary Church in New York […]
The Myth of the Marlboro Man
When I was growing up, a famous cigarette company featured a cowboy sitting alone on a horse in the middle of the vast American west. He was called, “The Marlboro Man.” He personified the myth of the great American hero, alone against nature, unencumbered by any social restraints or relationships. He lived his life by […]
Why You’re Probably Preaching Better Than You Think
When I was growing up, I was told I had to give 100% effort all the time in everything. Whether it was math class or basketball practice, I had to give my maximum effort and I had to give this maximum effort all the time. No breaks. No rest. I was taught to go as […]
The Whole Gospel for the Whole Person
When I started in the ministry, evangelism was the only thing that mattered to most local Baptist churches. Every sermon, regardless of where it started, ended up getting back to John 3:16 and every service ended with an extended invitation. We were trained in how to use the “The Four Spiritual Laws” and if we […]
Getting Started: Loving our Communities
Whenever I talk to churches about becoming engaged in their communities, a few common objections keep coming up. There are all kinds of reasons – or excuses – given as to why a congregation stays away from getting involved in the real problems of their neighborhoods. These problems are hard to solve, difficult to understand, […]
Leading Without Thinking: The Silent Crisis in Church Leadership
One of the challenges of working in a local church, and from what I’m finding out about every level of leadership, is there is so much to do, no leader has the time to think about things. There’s no time to look at trends, numbers, and future opportunities and challenges. Every day is so crammed […]
Washing Your Hands
I’m married to a nurse and according to her, my hands are an infestation of germs and bacteria of every known disease in the world. My wife tells me I don’t wash my hands after every moment in my life. Before I eat, I should wash my hands. After I shake someone’s hand, I should […]
