My friend and preaching colleague Ken Green recently shared this touching story on facebook.
It was the closing night of a summer VBS. The teacher of one of the classes had missed one night and hadn’t encountered a boy who had come that night and who was there that Friday. He only had one hand. It shook her a little and she began to be afraid that the others might make fun of him. But things went smoothly and she soon put the boy’s handicap out of her mind. Continue reading
Filed under Church
Today is the last day of the Southside Lectures. It’s been a great week. I’ve been edified by the powerful preaching from my fellow-laborers, Roger Shouse, Kenny Moorer and Don Truex.
But I’ve also been encouraged by the fellowship of the brethren who have come to worship, learn and grow. The association with God’s people this week has ennobled, uplifted and fortified my spirit.
It seems fitting that my final lecture this morning is on “The Wisdom of God’s Eternal Purpose. Here’s a synopsis of what I plan to share from Ephesians 3:10-11. Continue reading
All of the polls reflect the fact that church attendance is down. Barna. Gallup. Harris. And they record similar sounding comments.
“Church is boring.”
“The church is not relevant to my needs.”
“The church is just after my money.
“I’m spiritual, but not religious.” Continue reading
Filed under Church
“There are two things one cannot do alone,” once wrote Swiss psychologist, Paul Tournier, “be married and be a Christian.”
I suppose there are a few others. Be Mom. A dad. Or play a team sport. But Tournier’s point is valid.
Occasionally, I will hear someone say, “I can be a good Christian and not be a part of a church.”
Really? Continue reading
Filed under Church, Fellowship
Is the internet and social media replacing church attendance?
It would seem so, according to a study by the University of Chicago, as reported by The Christian Post. Their findings show that religious affiliation in the past two decades has declined, which they attribute to two factors: education and the internet. Continue reading
Filed under Church
We often hear the expression regarding some activity or outing, “that’s family time.” It is good to set aside times in our families just to be together without outside intrusion.
Well today it’s family time. Time to meet with my spiritual family. It has been for as long as I can remember. I’m talking about my church family. Continue reading
Filed under Church
We are now moving forward into my favorite time of year. No, not winter! Not Christmas! Basketball season! I like other sports. And watch other sports. But basketball is the best. I won’t even argue the point here. You know it is! Continue reading
Filed under Church, Discipleship
“Membership has its Privileges” touts an American Express commercial. The credit card and financial services company has promoted the idea of membership for years. Their slogan speaks of the benefits of membership. The same is true of many clubs and organizations that are seeking to sell prospective members on the benefits of being in their organization. Continue reading
Filed under Church, Fellowship, Uncategorized
Kinship. I just got to thinking about it. I’m not sure why. It’s not a word you hear used a lot anymore. You used to. Someone would say, “I know your kinfolks!” Or “Are you all kin?” Continue reading
Filed under Church, Fellowship, Relationships, Uncategorized
“I’m not into organized religion. Can’t I be a good Christian without being a member of a church?” This sentiment of this statement and question is very common. But is it so? Must one be a part of a local church family?
Filed under Church, Fellowship
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