In his book entitled, An Introduction to Ecclesiology: Ecumenical, Historical & Global Perspectives,Veli-Matti Kärkkäinen referred to the church as the altera civitas, that is, the other city, an idea in which the church is “an alternate community ready to challenge prevailing assumptions about the way of life and beliefs.” To be such a unique city, to READ MORE
Church
Spiritual Leadership Defined
In my role as a pastor I am sometimes asked what, exactly, is spiritual leadership. Typically I will answer such a question with a question of my own (which is a common tactic I employ that greatly irritates my beautiful Christa). My question back will be something along the lines of, “Well, what would you READ MORE
Stupid Church
Those not knowing Jesus are facing eternal damnation, and what the church wants to do is bicker about a water bottle. At least this is the case in one congregation of which I lately became aware. Recently word started to spread there that the board wanted to oust the worship leader from his role and, READ MORE
Do Not Turn Aside
Do not turn aside after vain things. Rather simple, eh? READ MORE
The Hegai Principle
It is unlikely that Hegai will ever become a household name, and this is unfortunate. After all, this slave of King Xerxes’ court plays a significant role in the preservation of the people of Israel (though it is likely he never really understood this). The book of Esther introduces us to him by saying that READ MORE
The Preacher’s Scrap Pile: The Groom of John 3
Among the details found within the rich fabric of John 3, is a reference regarding the love the Divine Groom has for his precious bride Israel. Consider John 3:29: The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore READ MORE