Tag Archives: Church

The Jerusalem Church: A Divine Model For the 21st Century

Our Bible reading today is Acts 2. One of the greatest chapters in the Bible.

In Acts 2 we see the fulfillment of Joel 2, Isaiah 2 and Micah 4. Jesus’ promise that the kingdom of God would come with power was coming to pass (Mk. 9:1). His command for the apostles to wait in Jerusalem to receive the power of the Holy Spirit occurred in dramatic fashion before an astonished crowd.

Peter’s sermon was Christ-centered. He argued that Jesus was the Son of God, based on His miracles and His resurrection from the dead. And that He was the fulfillment of David’s Messianic prophecy. The miraculous events of Pentecost were further evidence. His riveting message cut to the hearts of those he charged with wickedly crucifying Christ. Continue reading

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The Modern Church Has Lost Its Purpose

“Many U.S. churches today have ‘forgotten’ their purpose, becoming entertainment-driven social organizations eager to blend in with secular culture instead of focusing on biblical discipleship” warns Dr. David Jeremiah in a recent interview with Christian Post reporter Leah MarieAnn Klett.

“We’re not an entertainment service; we’re not here to see how close we can get to what the world does,” said Jeremiah, the founder of Turning Point Radio and Television Ministries. “But there’s so much of the world in the Church and vice versa that we can’t tell a difference.” Continue reading

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How To Solve Church Problems

My college Bible Professor, E.V. Srygley, once quipped, “Jesus said when two or three are gathered together, I will be in their midst. I’ve found that when two or three are gathered together, there’s going to be a problem.”

Problems. They’re part of life. The church and Christians are not exempt from problems. However, as Chuck Swindoll observed, “Every problem is an opportunity to prove God’s power.” Continue reading

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Some Thoughts on Small, But Not Struggling Churches

We’re taking our annual holiday break from blogging and reblogging the top 10 posts of 2018 based on reader hits. This one inspired by MIke Stephens came in at #10.

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When we first arrived in Ontario, Mike Stephens, the Wellandport preacher for over 20 years, and I were discussing my schedule for the summer. This discussion turned to the topic of small, struggling churches. He commented regarding one of the congregations, “Oh, they’re struggling to reach 200, but they are not struggling spiritually.”

In reflecting on the summer and my association with several, but not all, of the Ontario churches, I echo this sentiment. Often in the States, we equate strength with numbers. But careful observation and scriptural consideration reveal this is not necessarily so.

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Let’s Build The Church Together

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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

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Fellowship in the Church Family

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“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

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5 Reasons You Need A Church Family

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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

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We Missed Church Sunday

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Norma Jean and I missed church Sunday.

The winter storm Titan came across KCMO Saturday and Sunday with sleet and snow, making travel hazardous, and forcing many churches to cancel services.  Including our Church Family at Hickman Mills.

The whole day was really weird for me.  Being home all day. Missing worship. Not preaching. Norma Jean and I really missed assembling with the saints.   What did we miss? Continue reading

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Family Time

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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

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Teamwork: The Key To Success

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

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