The late Dr. Carl Hoch concludes, “True biblical fellowship is sharing the Lord Jesus Christ with other Christians.” One of the greatest privileges of my life was to attend seminary and be taught by men like Jim Grier, Joe Crawford,…
What is an “S” Activity at The Red Brick Church?
Christian community is at its best when relationships are growing apart from programming via spontaneous, simple, small activities so that people share life together. We’re not against programming at the Red Brick Church. As Fall comes around the corner, things…
Thom Rainer: 10 Things I’ve Learned About Pastors in Two Years
As a pastor, I have not experienced everything on this list. Still, there’s a lot to which I can relate. On this list 1-4, 8, 10 are all ones which apply to much of what I have experienced. Thom Rainer:…
The Church is Not a Democracy
Everyday Theology reminds us that the local church should never be seen as a democracy. In this quote, Scottish theologian P.T. Forsyth warns against viewing the church as a democracy, which he sees as a fundamental misunderstanding of the very…
The Twelve Biggest Challenges Pastors and Church Staff Face
Thom Rainer asked pastors to share the biggest challenges they face. I participated. He has published the results. The number one challenge according to Rainer’s survey is also what I would put as the number one challenge pastors and churches…
Being the “Dung Gate Guy”
One of the great blessings of our day is the availability of so many sermons. Below Andrew Wilson preaches on “Individualitis and the Dung Gate.” It is a sermon that is much needed! Mobilise 2013 – Main Meeting 5 –…
8 Ways I am Praying for the Beautiful Children of Our Church
I previously posted that children are easily the most beautiful site in the world. Still, I was struck anew this year during Vacation Bible School of how thankful I am for the children of our church. This year, as I…
What Do Christians Mean When They Reference the Gospel or Good News?
The word “gospel” means “good news.” It is from the Greek word from which we get “evangelical.” This is what the word looks like in Greek: εὐαγγέλιον. Even if it’s all Greek to you, you can make out the outline…
Reflections Regarding Youth Ministry
This is a working document. There are, doubtless, many typos and gaps. But it shares some basic foundations of youth ministry. Sunday, I am hosting a P.I.E. event with our teens and their parents. The goal will be for us…
What questions should teens be asking?
What questions should teens be asking? Share your thoughts! My wife, Jamie, and I love teenagers. I love being around them. We love watching them grow up. And here in our community we have many opportunities to get to know…