The Secret Pain of Pastors

‘Not all the news about pastors is discouraging, but there is a secret pain of pastors that we need to address…because being a pastor is hard. Pastors feel privileged to be called to their places of ministry. They have a deep love for those they shepherd. Most of them could not conceive of doing anything else. But please hear me: many pastors are hurting.’

How John MacArthur Changed American Preaching

Lots has been said following the death of John MacArthur. Much less has been said about why, exactly, he became so popular. This one explores that question. I think it is right in its assessment and I think what it says about preaching more generally is bang on.

What’s Going On In Your Pastor’s Mind?

‘What’s important for congregants to understand is that it is not only listeners who need to remain undistracted, who need to battle to keep their minds focused and their thoughts directed. The preacher fights the same battle, though at the front of the room and much more in the public eye. So, just as we pray for undistracted minds for those who listen, we would do well to pray for undistracted minds for those who preach. For the battle rages in the pulpit just as much as in the pew.’

On Retrievalism and the Gospel

This one looks at theological retrievalism and some of its attending consequences. The considerations in this one chime quite directly with a post of mine from earlier this week, which you can read here.

Filthy Rags or Fragrant Offerings? How Does God View Our Good Works?

Truth! What were once filthy rags are now fragrant offerings. We know because the bible says it is so. This one explores why and how this can be.

Low expectations…

‘In no rational world would someone ever dream of saying that the integrity, knowledge or competency of a doctor, teacher, lawyer, mechanic, plumber, engineer, banker, athlete or chef doesn’t really matter. However, that statement is functionally made about preachers every time someone opts to join a church that is not committed to theologically sound, exegetical, expositional, Christ-centered, experiential preaching. So, why do multitudes of men and women settle when it comes to the ministry of God’s word?’

From the archive: The proper response to God’s gifts is to enjoy them

‘God created us so that we can glorify him and enjoy him forever. And part of enjoying him is enjoying the gifts that he gives to us. He takes pleasure in our taking pleasure in the good gifts he gives to us. That is, after all, why he gives us good gifts. He is glorified when we enjoy the gifts he gives to us.’