‘Not a real schism’: Four years later, UMC exodus less a gush, more a trickle
Body
“An analysis of departing churches suggests the country’s second-largest Protestant denomination will be weakened, but it is unlikely to break.” - RNS
Love & Discernment: Hospitality and the LGBTQ+ Person
Body
“LGBTQ+ people are people. They are made in the image of God and worthy of dignity and respect…. don’t overcomplicate things. What are ways, in general, we can grow in making people feel welcome?” - 9 Marks
Discussion
In Church Planting, More Money Means More People
Body
“…the smaller the launch, the slower or less likely a church is to be financially self-sustaining.” - CToday
Discussion
The Shortcomings of Extroverted Pastors and How to Overcome Them
Body
“As an extrovert, I’ve noticed some painful shortcomings in my leadership. Perhaps I’m alone in some of these struggles…. Extroverts can talk too much.” - Sam Rainer
Discussion
Four Lessons From Four Years (Part 1)
I can’t believe it’s already your fifth year!
A statement like that was recently made by a friend—with a sense of amazement—regarding the fact that I have now begun my fifth year as a church ministries representative for The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry.
Yes, four years ago at this time I was nervously pondering how to announce to church congregations (many of which already knew me) that I now represented FOI and—the most dreaded issue of all—was in the position of attempting to raise financial support.
Discussion
Church of England Bishops Refuse to Allow Same-Sex Marriages
Body
“The Church of England said Wednesday it will continue to refuse to allow same-sex couples to marry in its churches, affirming its teaching that marriage is between a man and a woman.” - National Review
Discussion
Barber says sexual abuse hotline worth the cost
Body
“Barber allowed that the hotline is expensive but countered the high costs by suggesting that it would cost more in the long run if Southern Baptists do nothing to address sexual abuse.” - BPNews
Discussion
This Month Marks the 67th Anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Five Missionaries in Ecuador
Body
“Steve Saint texted me last Sunday, reminding me that it was the 67th anniversary of the death of his father Nate Saint and the other missionary martyrs in Ecuador: Jim Elliot, Ed McCully, Roger Youderian, and Pete Fleming.” - Randy Alcorn
Discussion
Does an Elder Have to be “Able to Teach?” (1 Timothy 3:2)
Body
Yes, but… “this word does not necessitate skillful communication, much less require an elder to speak from the front of a room.” - Kenneth Berding
Discussion