What pastors could learn from Jordan Peterson
It seems Peterson is the gift that keeps on giving. Here, Alastair Roberts offers 6 things that pastors could learn from him.
Let your friends know where you are
‘We are living in a context where it is expected that people will share everything. Where mission partners are able to put great stories and videos on Facebook and where they can instantly share stories of amazing success. It can be discouraging for people working in sensitive situations to see all of the things that their colleagues in more open contexts can share. More worryingly, in a situation where a blizzard of news and information is expected, it can appear that those working in closed countries aren’t actually doing anything – after all, if they had anything to share, they would share it.’
Church twice on a Sunday? Really!
Martin Salter offers 10 reasons why having a second service on a Sunday might be a good idea. As we are currently considering whether or not to reintroduce ours, it seemed timely. I’m not personally sold on 1 ½ of the points (number 9 and the first half of number 1, since you ask. When do we say we’ve done ‘enough’ based on those?) But, including the second half of #1, the rest are all pretty solid.
What I didn’t see
‘I do this all the time. I size people up based on their appearance, and I decide what kind of faith experience they have had. I decide what they have endured and what they understand about life. I don’t know why I would ever do such a thing, knowing as I do how easy it can be to hide pain and heartbreak behind pressed clothes and styled hair.’
Hard places aren’t tendy, but they’re worth it (podcast)
This conversation is worth hearing if you have any interest in mission to the poor. It is also worth listening to if you have any interest in supporting churches in deprived communities.
Stop trying to draw a crowd
‘Due to our culture’s obsession with being “successful,” many Christian leaders face a temptation to do whatever it takes to draw a crowd.It’s become an acceptable prosperity gospel for church leaders who would never subscribe to any other version of health-and-wealth teaching.’
From the archive: When logical actions are culturally defined and appear absurdly illogical
‘When we respond to and engage with Muslims, the way we respond is important. The message of Islam is triumphalist, couched in the language of victory. Allah will suffer no rivals and, above all else, he must be honoured. Whilst it is right for Christians to speak up and respond to Islam, we are not called to shout louder nor to make sure our God is seen to win. It is not incumbent on us to make everybody honour Christ with the dignity due to him.’