We cannot be both a consumer-driven and gospel-centered believer. The one excludes the other. Either you complain, avoid, and dread service or you follow Christ’s example of selfless love. Continue reading I-Centered Christianity
The surging crowds and waving banners will quickly die away. But a Christ-centered unity is the only common ground that will stand the test of time. Continue reading Two Keys to True Unity
So take a personal lesson from Leah. Are you tempted to compromise with the world in order to avoid hard and uncomfortable situations, or do you cling to Christ? Continue reading Learning from our Persecuted Family
We come together, not because of any natural draw to each other, but because of our mutual attraction to our Savior. He draws people who would never relate in any other sphere, and He enables their relationship through His blood. Continue reading Gospel Relationships: Transcending Work and Weather
Healthy conflict produces fruit and changes lives. It calls us to reevaluate our position. Healthy conflict honors God when, through it, we allow truth to shape and grow us. Continue reading Conflict and the Church
At my church, just through the front doors and to the left stands a prominent piece of furniture – the church mailboxes. With row upon row of Eberly’s, Hershberger’s, Miller’s, Yoder’s, and Wenger’s, each wooden compartment hanging with newsletters and … Continue reading Understanding Church: Accountability and Commitment
Do you spend your time searching for service opportunities that are more exciting or seem to be more connected to the work God is doing in the world? Continue reading Mundane Ministry
Stephen Decatur Jr. sailed the Intrepid into the harbor of Tripoli under cover of darkness. His mission: to set afire the USS Philadelphia captured by Tripolitan forces after running aground on an uncharted reef. The frigate was now a menace … Continue reading What Is the Purpose of the Church?
Throughout history, Christians have tended to emphasize either mystical inner transformation (important) or outer good works (also important) at the expense of the other. To take both of these and synthesize them into a Christ-like whole requires handling and skills greater than our own bumbling efforts. Continue reading What is Discipleship?
