Authenticity. It is the buzzword for the emerging generation. It is the ideal attitude and demeanor of every sought-after pastor. Indeed, it is one of the three core values for my own existence (the other two being accountability and availability). Authenticity, genuineness, being real, being raw—all of these are the currency of our culture. But being real without READ MORE
There is a messy reality about life that we Christians too easily wish to whitewash and pretend is not real. For some reason it appears to me that conservative Christianity in the modern era is far more concerned with a kind of piety that seeks to categorize life in neat little boxes and drawers. The READ MORE
Consider the following reflections on judgmentalism and hypocrisy, particularly as it relates to the study of Galatians 6:1 and following at Bethel Church. Matthew 7:1-5 is helpful here: “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured READ MORE
As part of Bethel Church‘s @Home initiative we’re highlighting ways that we can pursue fruitful disciplemaking opportunities on the homefront throughout the summer. Keeping in mind the admonition of Deuteronomy 6:7, which says, “You shall teach [God’s commands] diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when READ MORE
Trust is everything. When trust exists between people, within families or organizations, large or small, there is significant room for both empowerment and failure, unity and general well-being. However, when trust is not present, there exists at least a profound measure of insecurity and at most the dehumanization of the those involved. Everything is in READ MORE
The mission of Bethel Church is to make disciples who live, love and lead like Christ. This, of course, begs a question: just how did Jesus live, love and lead? If we are to make disciples who are like Christ, then we need to know how Christ manifested these things in his own life. Taking READ MORE
