The pastoral virtue of avoidance

Body

“At least seven times in the pastoral epistles, Paul directly charges Timothy and Titus to ‘avoid’ and to ‘have nothing to do with’ ideas and people who pose a threat to their flock.” - Baptist Press

Discussion

New Research: Pastors’ Sense of Calling Is Up—Satisfaction Is Lagging

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“Emotional strain among pastors has reached its lowest point in a decade—inadequacy, exhaustion, and energy have all improved….Yet vocational satisfaction tells a different story: the share of pastors who are ‘very satisfied’ with their vocation has fallen from 72 percent in 2015 to 52 percent in 2026.” - Barna Research

Discussion

Why Small Churches Stay Small — And What Finally Breaks the Pattern

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“Most small churches do not want to stay small. They simply do not want to change. That’s an uncomfortable thing to say. But after pastoring three small churches—one that stayed stuck and two that grew significantly—it’s the most honest diagnosis I know.” - C.Leaders

Discussion

Why Therapy Can’t Replace the Church

Body

“few books can match the way Brad Edwards shows us the need for the church amid rampant anxiety, division, and individualism.” - TGC

Discussion

10 ways to recognize a sacred cow in your church

Body

“I want to accomplish two things: (1) further define ‘sacred cow’ so we can recognize them, and (2) lead you to ask if your church has any sacred cows – including ministries you may lead. In a future post, I’ll give attention to how to address these issues. ” - Baptist Press

Discussion

Should You Get a PhD? 5 Reasons for & Against

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“Only about 1.8 percent of Americans have a PhD….If you are considering joining this academic minority, keep reading. What follows is a short guide meant to help you think honestly about the decision. Perhaps I will talk you into it. Perhaps I will talk you out of it.” - Word by Word

Discussion