It’s not about us
‘We in the West need to realise that we are in the minority in the global church and that Christians around the world are getting on with their lives without worrying what is happening in Oxford, or Grand Rapids. Most believers have never heard of our famous and celebrity pastors, much less the scandals that erupt around them. Our theological disputes and concerns don’t stretch beyond our little corner of the Global Church and we need to get used to that.
Create cultures not strategies
‘Whatever our strategy is, no matter how strong it is, no matter how well discussed and diagrammed it is, it’s effectiveness depends on the culture of the organisation with that strategy. Put simply the culture of a church or organisation is where our strategy either stands up or falls flat on its face.’
Ten reasons pastors are glad they quit vocational ministry
These are worth thinking through so that we can ask ourselves whether we are caring well for our pastor.
Are you afraid of the dark?
This one is about fearing the darkness of depression. If that is you, you might also want to check out my book The Pastor with a Thorn in his Side.
From baby boom to missions boon
There are some great opportunities out there for retired folks who wish to continue serving the Lord. Many churches are crying out for such experienced, godly people. ‘Currently, there are opportunities globally that allow retirees to continue to engage in meaningful work long after their “career” is complete. In some cases, it may be that the work done after retirement is more fruitful and lasting than the work done prior to retirement, during the so-called prime of their career.’
No, Jesus could not have sinned, but he was genuinely tempted
I was going to write in response to this myself. Thankfully, Guy Davies has done the heavy lifting and I can just co-sign his post here.
From the archive: Invoicing weddings and funerals is perverse
‘If we are to undertake weddings (or, if not actual legal ceremonies, blessings), it is beyond me why we would charge for the privilege of doing so. If we are conducting marriages on the grounds that it is a societal good, what on earth are we doing charging people for the purposes of doing what we are telling them is right before the Lord (ditto, incidentally, baptisms, funerals or any such thing)? How can it possibly be right for us to insist that the Lord desires couples not to cohabit but to be married only for us to then turn around and invoice them for their obedience?’