Articles

Hard Teachings and Disciple Making

Posted: January 31, 2018

We live in a time of great change in some core moral beliefs in North America. For example, Barna research has documented that over 40 percent of self-described practicing Christians… Read More

Dangers of a Leader’s Echo Chamber, by Art Rainer

Posted: January 29, 2018

Echo chambers occur when a leader’s ideas are consistently applauded without question. Rarely are the leader’s ideas, decision-making, and actions challenged. And rarely are ideas brought to the table that… Read More

4 Major Reasons Churches Fail to Reach People

Posted: January 27, 2018

It’s no secret that I’m passionate about churches reaching their communities. After all, evangelism and outreach is at the heart of the gospel. So when I hear from pastors who… Read More

Become a Level 5 Disciple Maker

Posted: January 17, 2018

Discipleship.org and Exponential pulled together top national disciple making leaders to map out five levels of disciple making.Our model shows people moving from conversion where a person starts as a… Read More

The Top Book Recommendations of 12 Disciple Making Leaders

Posted: January 13, 2018

Discipleship.org asked the leaders of 12 Disciple Making ministries that partner with us to share their top 2 book recommendations. We told everyone to assume the recommendations of two classics: The… Read More

Is Religious Belief Just a Brain Function?

Posted: January 8, 2018

Religion, we are told, has a scientific explanation; so we have no need of the God hypothesis. But is that so? This article reviews the alleged evidence and then responds… Read More

Atheism & the Burden of Proof, by Paul Copan

Posted: January 6, 2018

Atheism and the Burden of Proof In conversations with atheists, they may challenge us: “You’re claiming that God exists. Therefore, the burden of proof rests on you, not me. So… Read More

Watch These 10 Disciple Making Trends in 2018

Posted: January 3, 2018

A national disciple making movement in North America is starting to take off. Groups and networks are forming everywhere. Over 1400 pastors and leaders from around the country joined 17… Read More

Commencement Address to John Robert’s son’s ninth grade class

Posted: January 3, 2018

‘I wish you bad luck,” said the chief justice of the United States. He meant for those words, delivered last spring, to express encouragement and optimism. The year now ending… Read More

New Year’s Resolutions for Disciple Makers

Posted: January 1, 2018

Like most people, I make New Year’s resolutions, but I have a unique focus with some of my goals. I want to want what God wants, and God wants more… Read More

The Bible Project: An Interview with Jim Mackie

Posted: December 21, 2017

In this interview with Tim Mackie, co-founder of The Bible Project, we discuss the origins of The Bible Project and how two friends threw some videos up on Youtube that have now become a… Read More

“The Master Plan” – Robert Coleman

Posted: December 21, 2017

Robert Coleman wrote The Master Plan of Evangelism decades ago, and it has sold millions of copies. Now, you can experience his core teaching through never-before-seen video teaching sessions of Robert Coleman…. Read More

Learn How (Not) to Doubt – The Gospel Coalition (TGC)

Posted: December 21, 2017

When we experience doubts, we’re in holy company. A lot of people today—including Christians—don’t know how to doubt properly. Continue reading here.

We Can’t Be Like Jesus If We’re Not Making Disciples

Posted: December 15, 2017

I’m writing to share a recent blog post—an excerpt fromBecoming a Disciple Maker, a free eBook Greg Wiens and I wrote. The article’s called “We Can’t Be Like Jesus If… Read More

Developing An Effective Leadership Culture That Your People Will Aspire To

Posted: December 11, 2017

Most people who study the church in America believe that the church has a crisis in leadership. It appears that many of today’s churches are looking for leaders, but few are being… Read More

Summary of article by Claudia Wallis, “Marijuana and the Teen Brain: How much should we worry?”

Posted: December 10, 2017

Summary of the article by Claudia Wallis, “Marijuana and the Teen Brain: How much should we worry?” (Scientific American, Nov 2017, in The Science of Health). Adults have been warning their… Read More

A Guide for 33 Different Bible Versions

Posted: December 8, 2017

 December 8, 2017 The Holy Bible: A Buyer’s Guide This free eBook guides you through 33 different Bible versions Walk through the religion section of any major bookstore, and you’ll… Read More

Work Hard, Pray Hard

Posted: November 30, 2017

Students should take Bible study as seriously as school and sports practice. Article from Christianity Today: Work Hard Pray Hard

Triple Evolution

Posted: November 26, 2017

To play the podcast Triple Evolution (21 minutes), click on the play arrow. To download and listen later, right click here and then on ‘save target as’ or ‘save link as’. What… Read More

Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage, by Jerry Jones (review by Bob Young)

Posted: November 24, 2017

Jones discusses divorce and remarriage with objectivity By Bob Young In Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage: Seen Through the Character of God and the Mind of Jesus, Jerry Jones — a longtime… Read More

Crossing the Line (the ministry of Michael Burns)

Posted: November 21, 2017

Crossing the Line Workshop Overview: Crossing the Line workshops seek to begin or continue the conversation at the local level, on the topics of race, ethnicity, and culture within the body… Read More

My 5 Personal Reflections on the Forum (Bobby Harrington)

Posted: November 17, 2017

Here are my top five personal reflections from the Forum. 1. Pastors and Leaders are Hungry to Learn about Making Disciples Last year we were told that if we had… Read More

Why Have Americans Stopped Reading the Bible?

Posted: November 12, 2017

No verse is in a vacuum, and it is important to always read a passage as part of the larger story. Why Have Americans Stopped Reading the Bible? By KATHLEEN COOKE | October… Read More

Fishers of men, farmers of nuts

Posted: November 11, 2017

At 50, African Christian College strives for self-sustainability — in its students and its campus. Continue reading here. Note: Douglas has taught at the African Christian College (first-, second-, and… Read More

Paul and the Gift: Six Perfections of Grace

Posted: November 10, 2017

Grace is both an incredibly important and an incredibly difficult concept, explains John Barclay in Paul and the Gift. When boiled down to its purest form, or “perfected,” as Kenneth Burke… Read More

Great discipleship resources (Bobby Harrington)

Posted: November 8, 2017

If you’re like me, you’re always looking for great discipleship resources. That’s why I wanted to share with you the website URLs for seventeen of the top disciple making organizations… Read More

Children of Priests

Posted: November 4, 2017

The Boston Globe Spotlight team did a series on it that is getting a lot of attention.  Seems it may be a scandal even bigger that the clergy abuse issue…. Read More

TEAMwork, by Steve Kinnard

Posted: November 2, 2017

OCTOBER 30, 2017 / STEVEKINNARD TEAMwork A Bible Talk for Athletes (and everyone else) Opening question: Name someone who has been a great teammate to you. Explain why. I think of a… Read More

Towers in the Bible

Posted: November 1, 2017

If you’re like me, you are intrigued by tall towers and buildings. Whenever I visit a new city, I want to ascend to the highest point and look out. My… Read More

Tomography opens old biblical documents

Posted: October 28, 2017

Tomography is a way of imaging something in sections or “slices” without actually cutting it. It is often used in hospitals today in computed tomography (CT), also called “CAT scans.”… Read More

Nepal Criminalizes Christian Conversion and Evangelism

Posted: October 27, 2017

Last week, Nepal enacted a law to curb evangelism by criminalizing religious conversion, joining neighboring countries like India and Pakistan, where the region’s small-but-growing Christian minority faces government threats to… Read More

Science or Faith: A False Choice

Posted: October 25, 2017

In your school days, maybe you loved science class, or perhaps you dreaded it (I hope not). I’ve been a science lover since childhood — these were the early years… Read More

Q&A 1508 – Noah’s Flood Global?

Posted: October 7, 2017

Was Noah’s Flood really global? Is there evidence for this? Please help me think this through. I am happy to help. Let me say, first off, that whatever one’s conclusion… Read More

Excellent Science & Religion course, by Denis Lamoureux

Posted: October 4, 2017

This course examines the nature of both science and religion and attempts to explore the possible relationships between them. The primary purpose is to dispel the popular myth that science… Read More

Daylight from a Deerstand, by Jerry Jones

Posted: September 27, 2017

I thought you’d find this interesting. Jerry is someone who has thought — and studied — long and hard about many things. He’s a terrific Bible student — always learning,… Read More

Q&A 1506 – Is the earth young, only 1000s of years old?

Posted: September 19, 2017

Scientists say the world is really old, but my Bible teacher says it only appears old — but it actually young, only 1000s of years old. What is the truth?… Read More

No One Follows Their Heart, by Jon Bloom

Posted: September 13, 2017

Jon Bloom, in this fascinating article (posted at Desiring God), gives reasons that we don’t “follow” our hearts — which is backwards. We are supposed to lead our hearts. Intrigued? Click here for the article.

Forgiving the Wounds of a Friend, by Kristie Anyabwile

Posted: September 11, 2017

Forgiving the Wounds of a Friend I thought we were friends. The pain behind those words can overshadow years of life, love, and memories. All the good times fade to black when… Read More

A Psychiatrist Who Defied the Transgender Movement, by Chuck Colson

Posted: August 28, 2017

Chuck Colson on Dr. Paul McHugh Back in June I [Colson] told you about renowned psychiatrist Paul McHugh. He’s won numerous international awards for his work, but he’s recently been… Read More

Men vs Women: Google Guy Right about Sex Differences

Posted: August 13, 2017

The Science Says The Google Guy Was Right About Sex Differences A myriad of distinguished professors and social scientists have already confirmed what James Damore wrote in his Google memo:… Read More

Terminal Punishment – Portuguese Translation

Posted: August 11, 2017

Here is an article in two formats (Word of pdf) on terminal punishment, translated into Portuguese. Tradução Jacoby Terminal Punishment Portuguese

Early Mormonism

Posted: August 6, 2017

Laying the Foundation Mormonism stands or falls on the word of just one man—its prophet— Joseph Smith Jr. If Joseph Smith lied, if there was no “revelation”, if he is proven… Read More

Francis Chan – Why I Left My Megachurch

Posted: July 27, 2017

Bestselling author Francis Chan recently exposed his heart to Facebook employees, detailing why he left the helm of his thriving megachurch in California seven years ago. Continue reading.

“Brides flee caliphate as noose tightens on ISIS”

Posted: July 17, 2017

Fighting in all female dorms, sex obsessed ISIS fighters, women divorced and remarried as many as six times — this is the world of ISIS. ISIS wife: It was like… Read More

Gender & Sexuality – 3 Articles

Posted: June 24, 2017

Children being Experimented on and Scientist speak out against this … http://www.christianpost.com/news/gender-confused-kids-are-being-experimented-on-with-hormone-therapy-experts-188757/?utm_source=newsletter Johns Hopkins Researcher finds no conclusive evidence people are born gay or transgender … http://www.christianpost.com/news/no-scientific-evidence-that-people-are-born-gay-or-transgender-johns-hopkins-researchers-say-168263/page1.html Here’s the full… Read More

What Do You Pray for ISIS?

Posted: June 17, 2017

If you love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, the world will not be able to explain you. Continue reading here.

Why It’s So Hard for Scientists to Believe in God – Video

Posted: June 5, 2017

By Francis Collins, Medical Researcher, on bigthink.com. Some scientists see religion as a threat to the scientific method that should be resisted. But faith “is really asking a different set… Read More

Are Introverts Better Evangelists?, by Mike Shumann

Posted: May 28, 2017

“We introverts are prone to feel like evangelism is really just for extroverts. When Jesus commissions us to preach his good news, who’s naturally more excited to do it: those… Read More

The Real Root of Sexual Sin, by Jon Bloom

Posted: May 26, 2017

Our most powerful weapon in the fight against sexual temptation is not better accountability, but profound humility. To continue reading, click here.

The Horror of Human Embryo Jewelry, by Abigail Dodds

Posted: May 15, 2017

A company in Australia is turning frozen embryo children into jewelry for their parents to wear. Click here for full article.

Q&A 1491 – The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse indicated by Islamic flags?

Posted: May 7, 2017

I found a website proving that radical Islam is prophesized in the book of Revelations 6:1-8. Surely it cannot be a coincidence that the colors of the four horsemen of the apocalypse –… Read More

Q&A 1490 – The race to Mars: a waste of money?

Posted: April 28, 2017

What is your viewpoint on scientists’ attempt to land on Mars in order to search for signs of life? Is the exploration of Mars a progressive endeavour, or is it a waste of… Read More

Verge Network

Posted: April 25, 2017

An advocate and champion for movements of gospel-centered Missional Communities, Verge Network exists for church leaders, students, entrepreneurs, artists, urban innovators, business leaders, community development specialists, non-profit leaders, church planters… Read More

All is Dust and DNA, by Jim Stump

Posted: April 14, 2017

  Note: This article was originally published on February 18, 2015, at OnFaith. It is reprinted with permission. I grew up in what is sometimes called a “low church” tradition that didn’t… Read More

Q&A 1488 – Answering the JW claim about John 1:1 + NT Greek

Posted: April 10, 2017

I have a concern about the translation of John 1:1. Should the Greek text be translated “the word was God,” “the word was a god,” or “the word was divine”?… Read More

What If My Husband Looks at Porn? by Kara Garis

Posted: April 8, 2017

It was such a kick to the stomach. A nauseating, heart-pounding kick. I remember staring, confused, at the computer screen. What exactly was he looking at, anyway? Is that what… Read More

NEVER Work like Elon Musk – Michael Hyatt

Posted: April 5, 2017

Elon Musk is widely regarded as one of the most influential entrepreneurs working today. He’s one of the founders of PayPal and the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX. He wants… Read More

“What am I supposed to do?”, by Geoff Surratt

Posted: March 14, 2017

I recently had a fascinating conversation with a sharp young leader, who had just returned from an amazing vacation in the Caribbean. The food, the scenery, the weather, the company;… Read More

Churches Can Handle Change, But They Don’t Like Surprise, by Karl Vaters

Posted: March 13, 2017

Introducing big changes is much easier if we give church leaders and members the time to process them. To continue reading this article, click on this link: Churches Can Handle Change

How the Entitlement Mentality Crept into our Churches, Thom Rainer

Posted: March 6, 2017

In 1974 Burger King made a bold move to take market share from McDonald’s. At the time, McDonald’s made burgers en masse. If you wanted a special order, you had… Read More

Disney shows gay kiss in a children’s cartoon for first time

Posted: March 3, 2017

March 2, 2017 (LifeSiteNews) – The Walt Disney Company pushed the LGBT envelope a little further this week by airing its first on-screen gay kiss on an animated children’s program…. Read More

Book Launch: When God Says “Wait” (Elizabeth Thompson)

Posted: March 2, 2017

My friend Elizabeth Laing Thompson has just released a new book, When God Says “Wait”: Navigating Life’s Detours and Delays Without Losing Your Faith, Your Friends, or Your Mind. We… Read More

Aliens & Strangers, by Brett Kreider

Posted: March 1, 2017

Part of my ministry as a teacher is to put excellent biblical material into the hands of Bible students — including those who teach. So I’m proud to recommend by friend… Read More

The “T” In LGBT: an interview with Brandon Redler

Posted: February 24, 2017

Meet Brandon Redler from SIW ministries, a man who lived as a woman named Desiree — before he found Jesus Christ. A powerful testimony, and much needed insight and education about the… Read More

12 Reasons Millennials Are Over Church, by Sam Eaton

Posted: February 21, 2017

59 Percent of Millennials Raised in a Church Have Dropped Out—And They’re Trying to Tell Us Why Only 4 percent of the Millennial Generation are Bible-Based Believers. This means that… Read More

How Do You Super Bowl?

Posted: February 3, 2017

Ideas for Navigating Controversial Ads http://www.desiringgod.org/articles/how-do-you-super-bowl?

English pronunciation of biblical words

Posted: January 21, 2017

BibleSpeak | The Best Bible Name Pronunciation Tool Available

The Scariest Day of My Life, by Guy Hammond

Posted: January 19, 2017

I would have rather doused myself in honey and sacrificed myself to a bear than talk about it… Hardly anyone knew. I was way too embarrassed and ashamed to talk about… Read More

Prosperity Prayer at the Inauguration: Evangelicalism vs a False Gospel, by John Stonestreet, 17 Jan 2017

Posted: January 17, 2017

As you may have heard, several prominent religious leaders have been chosen to lead prayers at the upcoming presidential inauguration. Among them: Franklin Graham, and the Archbishop of New York,… Read More

New Revision of the HCSB (under a new name)

Posted: January 10, 2017

“Details are scant at this point, but I gather they’re pouncing on the void left by the NIV 2011. I’m curious about whether they’ll change back their rendering of YHWH… Read More

Black Tax and White Privilege by Gordon Ferguson

Posted: November 21, 2016

An Introduction to a New Blog on Racism and Prejudice http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?m=1122296331446&ca=bf9b8aac-b70c-4680-ab1a-8091f6a4be95

A Transgender Person: Coming to YOUR Church Soon! by Guy Hammond

Posted: November 6, 2016

The phone rings, and I pick up. “Hello.” A panicked voice blurts out “Is Guy Hammond there?” “This is Guy, who’s this?” “My name is Henry James (not his real… Read More

Kidneys in the Bible

Posted: October 12, 2016

The following appears in the abstract of Garabed Eknoyan, The Kidneys in the Bible: What Happened? The abstract is available at http://jasn.asnjournals.org/content/16/12/3464.full. “The kidneys are mentioned… sometimes in direct connection… Read More

Creation / Evolution reading

Posted: October 12, 2016

Although a non-scientist, since the 1970s I have read over 50 books on biological origins, as well as scores of scientific articles. Here are (in my opinion) some of the… Read More

Supreme Court Wrestles with Lesbian Adoptions (by John Clayton)

Posted: August 23, 2016

Used with permission by John Clayton, of Does God Exist? On March 7, 2016, the Supreme Court reversed Alabama’s refusal to recognize same-sex adoption, saying that same-sex couples cannot be… Read More

(Sarcastic) Piece on the Sinner’s Prayer

Posted: August 17, 2016

http://babylonbee.com/news/bible-lacking-sinners-prayer-returned-full-refund/

Reflections on Sabbath service

Posted: August 4, 2016

by Daniel Berk, Madrid Shabbat Shalom For the first time in my life, I attended a Jewish Friday Sabbath Service with the Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Congregation. Their synagogue in… Read More

Don’t Grieve the Spirit (Daniel C. Berk)

Posted: July 12, 2016

Holy Spirit 4 July 5th, 2016 God Grieves From Within I’ve been here in St. Louis for a few days now before a North American conference begins, and I’m inspired by… Read More

Don’t Listen to Guy!!

Posted: July 6, 2016

Guy Hammond’s ‘Strength in Weakness’ ministry is not without opposition. Click here to see some of the backlash.

Would the world be more peaceful without religion?

Posted: June 29, 2016

Article of interest: http://www.bbc.co.uk/guides/zcnm82p

Sub-Atomic Particles Are Evidence the Universe Was Created

Posted: June 18, 2016

String Theory Co-Founder: Sub-Atomic Particles Are Evidence the Universe Was Created By Barbara Hollingsworth | June 17, 2016 | 3:56 PM EDT Dr. Michio Kaku. (Wikipedia) (CNSNews.com) — Dr. Michio Kaku,… Read More

What a Homosexually Attracted, Canadian Christian Says About Orlando

Posted: June 17, 2016

Shooting in Orlando – What A Same Sex Attracted Christian Has to Say By Guy Hammond The world has gone mad. When police stormed the Pulse Nightclub in the early… Read More

The “M” Word

Posted: June 16, 2016

 Issue 69 • June 2016 Are There Health Benefits to Masturbation? [Video] Matt Fradd • Since the days of psychologists like Sigmund Freud and Alfred Kinsey, people picture the sexual impulse as… Read More

What Can We Learn From the Deadliest Shooting in U.S. History?

Posted: June 13, 2016

What Can We Learn From Deadliest Mass Shooting in U.S. History? June 12, 2016, by Jon Sherwood In what has become a far too common occurrence in recent American history,… Read More

Like sheep without a shepherd

Posted: June 10, 2016

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2016/06/08/sheep-run-loose-in-spanish-town-after-shepherd-falls-asleep/

New Parenting Resource

Posted: May 23, 2016

We have a new parenting resource for you to share! That’s right! We have an exciting new tool to help parents in the fight against Internet pornography. We have said… Read More

Honey, I Shrunk the Church?

Posted: May 5, 2016

Honey, I Shrunk the Church? May 5, 2016 John Porter  In my relatively short time practicing house church, I have learned that there are many different ideas about what house… Read More

What God Has Joined Together

Posted: March 17, 2016

For an excellent article by David Instone-Brewer on the topic of Divorce & Remarriage, click here.

Divorce and Remarriage: A scholar’s take on the ancient issues

Posted: March 17, 2016

To read this article, please click here.

An Introduction to the Gospels

Posted: March 7, 2016

by Daniel C. Berk Click here for the article.

Cosmic Fall & Natural Evil, by Denis Lamoureux

Posted: March 5, 2016

Cosmic Fall & Natural Evil

Do Christian Parents Flirt with the Idol of Safety?

Posted: March 1, 2016

Most families—rich, poor, or middle class—have an image, maybe even a dream, of what their child’s life will look like once they reach adulthood. If pressed to describe it, the image might… Read More

Christian Education

Posted: February 25, 2016

Here are two links containing schools, colleges and universities affiliated with Churches of Christ and the Christian Churches: http://kingstonchurchofchrist.com/christian-education/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_universities_and_colleges_affiliated_with_the_Christian_churches_and_churches_of_Christ

Job: The Problem of Suffering

Posted: February 23, 2016

Through The Bible In 30 Days: Day 13 by Daniel Berk http://www.danielcberk.com/#!Through-The-Bible-In-30-Days-Day-13/n96v6/56acd5ee0cf205a1e8578110

Does Raising Self-Esteem Turn Children into Narcissists?

Posted: February 17, 2016

Article of interest http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/does-raising-self-esteem-turn-children-into-narcissists/

The Twain Shall Meet – Science & Religion

Posted: February 9, 2016

New York Times article on science and religion http://www.nytimes.com/2016/02/14/books/review/the-twain-shall-meet.html?_r=0

New Film Promotes Belief in the Resurrection

Posted: February 7, 2016

Read about how this film, to be put out on Feb 19, 2016 from Sony Pictures, will assist many who don’t see Him to come to believe in Christ and His… Read More

Why Teens Leave the Church

Posted: February 7, 2016

The one reason why college students leave the church could surprise you. http://www.collegeandseminary.com/college-life/the-1-reason-why-college-students-leave-the-church-could-surprise-you/#

9 Sins the Church is Okay With

Posted: February 4, 2016

Are we changing the Bible to fit our culture or are we changing our culture to fit the Bible? http://www.faithit.com/9-sins-the-church-is-okay-with/

I Choose Us

Posted: January 28, 2016

Help for building stronger, healthier marriages, consider this great ministry: About I Choose Us Past & Future Facilitators’ Workshops About Us Testimonies Worldwide Channel News Asia – Interview Movie Copyright… Read More

Thriving Beyond the Margins — A Resource That Every Christian NEEDS‏

Posted: January 26, 2016

Help for Christians who are helping their gay friends. A resource that every Christian needs in their library! Are you studying the Bible with someone who is gay? Where should… Read More

CLEAN – podcast 5

Posted: January 5, 2016

For CLEAN podcast 5, on Purity \, click on the play arrow. The podcast (12 minutes) can also be downloaded. Download here. for Challenge Thought q [Tomorrow: Purity in the… Read More

Revelation 17 (the 7 “kings”)

Posted: November 27, 2015

Click below for chapter notes on Revelation, chapter 17 Revelation-Explained-Lesson-17

Website contents

Posted: November 16, 2015

What do you get with your premium subscription? For less than 10 cents a day, you receive unlimited access to: 500+ MEATY ARTICLES, N.T. chapter studies, character studies, and more! NEARLY 1400 Q&As… Read More

Reform Jews poised to pass transgender resolution

Posted: November 4, 2015

http://my.earthlink.net/article/us?guid=20151104/ab9530fb-be4b-4439-8e23-8a2993d4037e

13 Scriptures to Help Siblings Get Along

Posted: November 1, 2015

http://lizzylife.com/2015/10/27/13-scriptures-to-help-siblings-get-along/ – Elizabeth Thompson

Recommended Book: “Revolution in World Missions”

Posted: October 26, 2015

“Revolution in World Missions: One Man’s Journey to Change a Generation” by K. P. Yohanan “Lord, I’ll give myself to speak for You.” Young Yohannan had no idea what those… Read More

Transgender in the Church – Brandon Redler

Posted: October 23, 2015

Showing Christ’s Love to Transgender People My name is Brandon Redler and it is an honor for me to be used by God in my role as a member of… Read More

13 Confidence-Building Scriptures for Kids and Teens

Posted: October 3, 2015

by Elizabeth Thompson http://lizzylife.com/2015/09/16/13-confidence-building-scriptures-for-kids-and-teens/

When Kids Know God Better Than We Do

Posted: October 1, 2015

by Elizabeth Thompson http://lizzylife.com/2015/08/03/when-kids-know-god-better-than-we-do/

Thoughts on Randy Alcorn’s ‘The Treasure Principle’

Posted: September 17, 2015

Douglas Jacoby, 2015 I enjoyed reading Randy Alcorn’s The Treasure Principle. It’s light, readable, and makes many great points—especially for believers living in the affluent west. There were many helpful… Read More

Evolution: Answers to questions

Posted: September 1, 2015

Good answers Below are claims a skeptic might make — and possible responses the believer might make in return. 1. In portraying a 6-day creation 6000 years ago, Genesis is… Read More

Evolution: What About Genesis?

Posted: September 1, 2015

Evolution & Genesis (for newsletter 2 Sept 2015 in Answering Skeptics, R) Nature and Scripture, as we have seen, are complementary. This means that science and theology should be complementary,… Read More

How Wide the Divide: Sexuality & Culture

Posted: August 17, 2015

“How Wide the Divide: Sexuality at the Forefront, Culture at the Crossroads”, by Ravi Zacharias on July 15, 2015. http://rzim.org/global-blog/how-wide-the-divide-sexuality-at-the-forefront-culture-at-the-crossroads

Q&A 1421 – Is contraception biblically permissible?

Posted: August 16, 2015

What does the Bible say about contraception? I belong to a church that forbids it. Can you please help me figure this out? I would like to invite you to… Read More

Q&A 1419 – Mutations really random?

Posted: July 29, 2015

When Calvinist scientists and theologians embrace evolutionary creationism, do they deny that random mutations are random? Maybe this is a silly question, but could creation ever be considered truly random… Read More

‘Oldest’ Koran Fragments Found

Posted: July 23, 2015

It will be interesting to see how the wording in this fragment compares to the present-day canonical Qur’an. ‘Oldest’ Koran fragments found in Birmingham University What could be the world’s… Read More

Jehovah’s Witnesses: I’ve Got Some “New Light” For You!

Posted: June 5, 2015

This site is full of great information, studies and explanations about the Jehovah Witness doctrines. http://thewatchtowerfiles.com/

Galatia, We Have a Problem

Posted: May 14, 2015

This short paper analyzes Paul’s passionate letter to the Galatians. Written by and used with permission of Graydon Stephenson. CLICK for the article.  

Blog post on “Rethinking Hell”

Posted: May 6, 2015

http://rethinkinghell.com/2015/05/rethinking-hells-second-book/

River of Fire: Did God Create Hell? (Alexander Kalomiros)

Posted: February 24, 2015

For an unusually insightful perspective on hell by a Greek Orthodox perspective, read River of Fire. The author is Dr. Alexander Kalomiros.

What is the Real “Age of the Earth” Issue, by John Clayton

Posted: February 15, 2015

Adapted, with permission, from Does God Exist? January/February 2015, pp.3-9. Several years ago a spruce tree was discovered in Sweden that was determined by carbon dating to be 9,550 years… Read More

Alias Christians, by Daniel Berk

Posted: February 12, 2015

With the increase of iPhone holders, Facebook users, video-game players, Instagram posters, Snapchat senders, Spotify listeners, text-message writers, and hashtag creators, the word “friendship” has dwindled in the last 30… Read More

Tips for speakers 2: Welcome talks, contribution talks, etc

Posted: January 21, 2015

This document contains the guidelines we use in the North River Church of Christ for anyone speaking before the congregation. Rather than leaving it to chance, let’s be proactive. Solid… Read More

Tips for speakers 1: Communion talks

Posted: January 21, 2015

This is the first of two documents intended to improve, streamline, and sharpen the address given in many churches before the Lord’s Supper. (The second document covers welcome talks, announcements,… Read More

Q&A 1396 – Aliens seeding life – no need for a creator God?

Posted: January 3, 2015

A non-believing friend counters the idea of a creationist God by contending for seeding from aliens. I realize this idea is preposterous to you, but I didn’t find anything specifically… Read More

Q&A 1391 – Consummating a marriage?

Posted: November 19, 2014

If possible, a couple should consummate the marriage sexually, fulfilling the physical aspect of the “one flesh” principle. But if they don’t, is such a couple still considered married in… Read More

Rethinking Hell, part 3 (of 3)

Posted: September 28, 2014

To hear the final section of Doctrinal, Biblical, and Psychological Obstacles to Accepting Conditionalism: Successfully Rethinking Hell in a Small Christian Movement (26 minutes), click on the podcast icon below…. Read More

Rethinking Hell, part 2 (of 3)

Posted: September 27, 2014

To hear part 2 of Doctrinal, Biblical, and Psychological Obstacles to Accepting Conditionalism: Successfully Rethinking Hell in a Small Christian Movement (31 minutes), click on the podcast icon below. Click… Read More

Rethinking Hell, part 1 (of 3)

Posted: September 26, 2014

Following the inaugural Rethinking Hell Conference (Houston, 11-12 July 2014), a Festschrift is being published for Edward Fudge on the occasion of his 70th birthday. My class at the conference… Read More

Q&A 1380 – The missing day of Joshua, or Misuse of the Bible in Christian Evidences

Posted: August 12, 2014

Is there astronomical evidence for the missing day of Joshua 10? I saw somewhere that there is, and once heard a preacher confirm it. Often more harm than good is done… Read More

Cielo e Infierno: Castigo Terminal

Posted: August 8, 2014

Click on link for the PDF: Cielo e Infierno: Castigo Terminal For the English version of Heaven and Hell: Terminal Punishment (1991), click here.

Q&A 1377 – Manuscript discovery proves Jesus married?

Posted: July 16, 2014

Recent claims that Jesus was married — always sure to draw a crowd — are based on the discovery of an ancient manuscript that has come to light. It’s not… Read More

Q&A 1376 – Did God Kill Uzzah?

Posted: July 7, 2014

Author: John Clayton of Does God Exist? Used with permission. When Richard Dawkins released his now famous atheist rant against God, he opened the door for many arm-chair atheists on… Read More

Divorce rates, inside the church and outside

Posted: May 20, 2014

It is common to hear depressing statistics about divorce rates. The myth of the 50% divorce rate has been debunked for many years. But what about divorce rates within the… Read More

Q&A 1366 – Time waiting in Hades counted towards final punishment?

Posted: April 8, 2014

You argue that it does not make sense for God to punish a certain number of years of sin with an infinite punishment. What about Hades, the intermediate state of… Read More

Q&A 1356 – Sleeping = dead?

Posted: January 8, 2014

In several passages the dead seem to be described as though they were asleep. For example, 1 Cor 15:6 says “Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at… Read More

Catholic Church repudiates limbo

Posted: August 30, 2013

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20070420/ts_nm/pope_limbo_dc

Prayer Points: Republic of Ghana

Posted: July 31, 2013

This west African nation (population 24 million) is sandwiched between the Ivory Coast (to the west) and Togo (to the east). Next to the small nation of Togo is the… Read More

The Gospels Gain Respect

Posted: July 31, 2013

The Gospels Gain Respect (Edward Fudge, used with permission) For the past century, much of scholarly opinion has held that the Gospels as we have them were not written by… Read More

Monday Dinner

Posted: July 31, 2013

Mon 12 Mar 2012, Norcross, GA — in case you want to meet Michael Licona and Josh McDowell this Monday night, at dinner. (I’ll be there.) Update: 65 persons were… Read More

Bart Ehrman’s Forged – review by Michael Licona

Posted: July 31, 2013

Bart Ehrman penned Forged to argue that most of the NT is deceitfully attributed to men who never wrote these documents. The book was published in 2011. Michael Licona offers… Read More

Biblical literacy (the Pew Forum)

Posted: July 31, 2013

On Pew Forum’s 2010 U.S. Religious Knowledge Survey, which asked 32 questions on the Bible, major religious figures and core beliefs and practices, the average score was 16 correct. Who scored… Read More

Can you write a review?

Posted: July 31, 2013

Would anyone like to write a brief review of one of my books at CBD? Compelling Evidence The Ultimate Bible Quiz Book Your Bible Questions Answered OR A Quick Overview… Read More

Inspiring journal update (J.R., China)

Posted: July 31, 2013

Note: Names altered for purposes of security Dear all, I wanted to share a very special weekend T. and I had last weekend. Our dear brother and sister, R. &… Read More

Ghosts / Violent World / Abuse of Women in China

Posted: July 31, 2013

All the following are used by permission of John Clayton (www.doesgodexist.org). These excerpts are from the Jan/Feb 2012 issue. BELIEVING IN GHOSTS. One of the areas we have gotten involved… Read More

Listen to Debate 7 — Richard Carrier v. Douglas Jacoby

Posted: July 31, 2013

Title: Jesus Christ — Son of God or Apocalyptic Prophet? And this is Richard Carrier’s own announcement of the event. Hopefully lots of atheists and lots of believers will support… Read More

Useful facts (The Foster Report [AACC], 2011)

Posted: July 31, 2013

The following facts have been culled from the bulletin of the American Association of Christian Counselors, "For the Record: The Foster Report," by Gary D. Foster. Gay – The average… Read More

Testing the Strong Ones (by Rocky Braat)

Posted: July 31, 2013

Rocky Braat is a friend of mine who loves the poor and the hurting and the needy. He has also fallen in love with India. Here is his latest report…. Read More

Participatory church (Michael Konomos), 2010

Posted: July 31, 2013

I am taking a closer look at the case for participatory church meetings outside 1 Corinthians 14. I will concede that 1 Corinthians 14 is the closest that we have… Read More

9/11 — One Year Later

Posted: July 31, 2013

Used with permission from Edward Fudge. Ten years ago today, on September 11, 2001, a cohort of militant Muslim terrorists hijacked four commercial airliners over U.S. airspace. Then, with specific… Read More

Google digitises Dead Sea Scrolls

Posted: July 31, 2013

Check out the article!

Appendixes to A Quick Overview of the Bible

Posted: July 31, 2013

Note: These appendices supplement the first edition of the Quick Overview. They are included in the second (expanded) edition of 2019. Appendix A You Can Read the Bible in a… Read More

Watson Baltic trip report

Posted: July 31, 2013

Ken & Kat’s Big Jacoby AdventureSeptember 2011By Ken Watson My wife and I would like to do something different for our vacation this year.  Maybe something that would help others and… Read More

Evangelistic Bible Study Series

Posted: July 31, 2013

Download the "Evangelistic Bible Study Series" (.pdf format)

CHURCH WITHOUT JESUS, by Edward Fudge

Posted: July 31, 2013

(used with permission) There is a church in my town which features inspirational speakers, although they never mention sin or salvation through Jesus Christ. Sometimes they seem to say that… Read More

Giberson claims creationists are driving young people out of the church

Posted: July 31, 2013

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/karl-giberson-phd/creationists-and-young-christians_b_1096839.html?ref=tw

Debate 6 (Helsinki)

Posted: July 31, 2013

Listen to Debate 6: Is Christianity Rational? Debate with atheist Robert Brotherus took place 10 September 2011 (Helsinki). Please listen to it and tell your friends — believing and nonbelieving=

America’s New God, by Michael Youssef

Posted: July 31, 2013

http://townhall.com/columnists/michaelyoussef/2011/08/14/americas_new_god

Losing our Identity (by Edward Fudge)

Posted: July 31, 2013

Used with permission.   A critic of this ministry says that we in the Churches of Christ have restored the New Testament church. Our mission now, he says, is to… Read More

Stone-Campbell Timeline

Posted: July 31, 2013

Church History: Restoration Movement This presentation introduces you to the major figures in the Restoration Movement, also known as the Stone-Campbell movement. Short pieces of text along with pictures illustrate… Read More

Stairway to Heaven, by Mike Leno

Posted: July 31, 2013

In the aftermath of the Protestant Reformation, the Church of Rome decided to call a general church council to address a number of issues. Besides being the first council of… Read More

5 Church “Rejection” Traps Leaders Should Avoid, by David Fitch

Posted: July 31, 2013

Click here to download this interesting article in .pdf format.

AVOIDING ‘R’-RATED SPEECH

Posted: July 31, 2013

Used with the permission of Edward Fudge, of gracEmail. A gracEmail subscriber writes: “My 12-year-old child asked me the other day why she is permitted to say some words but… Read More

Christian Scholars’ Conference 2011

Posted: July 31, 2013

CSC AT PEPPERDINE — Nearly 500 scholars representing approximately 100 universities, seminaries and other institutions are gathering next week for the Christian Scholars Conference at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California,… Read More

Aziz Sarah is Named National Geographic’s 2011 Emerging Explorer

Posted: July 31, 2013

http://news.gmu.edu/articles/6918

Prison ministry – inspiration from Kit Cummings

Posted: July 31, 2013

Check out Power of Peace Project, an inspiring ministry led by Kit Cummings. Kit has been involved in prison ministry for many years and is a true pioneer in this… Read More

Rabbinic traditions

Posted: July 31, 2013

This is a valuable resource for learning what the ancient rabbis taught: http://www.tyndalearchive.com/TRENT/Vol1/

Greg Koukl: Questioning Authority

Posted: July 31, 2013

Click on the link for a helpful article for students whose faith is being challenged by their teachers/professors. This comes from Stand to Reason, the ministry of Greg Koukl: Questioning… Read More

Pseudepigraphal Works

Posted: July 31, 2013

Works of the Pseudepigrapha include the Apocalypse of Abraham the Apocalypse of Adam the Testament of Adam the Life of Adam and Eve Ahiqar the Letter of Aristeas Aristeas the… Read More

Euthanasia

Posted: July 31, 2013

The following article is from the Jan/Feb 2010 issue of Does God Exist? Used by permission. EUTHANASIA GOES BIG TIME Sir Edward Downs was known by many people as the former… Read More

The Spectrum of Judaism in the 1st century AD

Posted: July 31, 2013

Most of the sects of first century Judaism have their roots in the intertestamental period. Every one casts light on the New Testament. In this article we will explore seven… Read More

Strength in Weakness First Ever “Live Webinar” Only 1 Week Away!

Posted: July 31, 2013

Strength in Weakness First Ever "Live Webinar" Only 1 Week Away!   Press Release For Immediate Release Strength in Weakness Partners with the Canadian School of Missions to Bring You… Read More

Unmasking Muhammad

Posted: July 31, 2013

Despite its vitriol and writing errors, this free book, in pdf form, sheds tremendous light on the character of Muhammad and the religion he launched in the 7th century. Click… Read More

Christianity Today Article – The Problem with Pizzazz

Posted: July 31, 2013

Click here for an interesting article from Christianity Today.  (Music, worship, hype…)

New Worship – by Dr. Peter Masters

Posted: July 31, 2013

Click here for an interesting article by Dr. Peter Masters.

Francis Chan on baptism (21 Feb 2011)

Posted: July 31, 2013

Click here to watch a 5-minute video on baptism.  Chan’s view sees baptism as salvific, in the sense of a pledge and an appeal (combining the best of both translation alternatives,… Read More

Bible Survey results (May 2011)

Posted: July 31, 2013

Typical age of person taking survey:   15 years in Christ(48% indicated 10-20 years as Bible readers, and 100% were in the 1-40 years age group) Number of times completely read… Read More

EGYPT

Posted: July 31, 2013

I will share about my recent trip to Egypt and other Middle Eastern countries in Newsletter 2 (February 2011).  Very encouraging trip!  Thanks for all your prayers.  Please consider having… Read More

Jacoby PUBLICATIONS

Posted: July 31, 2013

BOOKS & AUDIO Books Advanced Christian Training (1986) Till the Nets are Full (formerly Shining Like Stars). Also available in Vietnamese. The Powerful Delusion (1987) I Was Hungry! The Christian… Read More

For the Record: The Foster Report

Posted: July 31, 2013

Excerpted from Christian Counseling Connection, a publication of the American Association of Christian Counselors (www.aacc.net), Vol 17, Issue 3, p.15. I came across these interesting facts in the most recent… Read More

Prayers needed for Mexico (danger)!

Posted: July 31, 2013

Greetings from Mexico. We really need your prayers for the safety of the innocent people and the church. We need to add those 8 killed today [13 Feb 2011] in the… Read More

The New Testament comes to remote peoples (Papua New Guinea)

Posted: July 31, 2013

Check this out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9dpmp_-TY0 Posted 20 February 2011

Human testing, End-times Earthquakes, Muslim College, Civil partnership

Posted: July 31, 2013

All the following, adapted from the Jan/Feb 2001 issue of John Clayton’s Does God Exist, are used with permission. HUMAN TESTING IN THE PASTEinstein said it best: “Religion without science… Read More

We cannot walk the path alone

Posted: July 31, 2013

Here are some cool quotes that pepper the history of the church. Each shows and awareness that one-another relationships, and in fact mentoring, play a useful role in spiritual maturity…. Read More

The Fruit of Religious Faith (2011)

Posted: July 31, 2013

http://blog.heritage.org/2011/03/14/familyfacts-org-the-fruit-of-religious-faith-in-america/

Intriguing archaeological discovery

Posted: July 31, 2013

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1372741/Hidden-cave-First-portrait-Jesus-1-70-ancient-books.html

Easter evidence (from Tyndale House)

Posted: July 31, 2013

As the Easter season is upon us, want to learn more about some of the evidence for Jesus’ crucifixion? The 2nd-4th videos on this page are very interesting, and have… Read More

Man’s Sinfulness, by Michael Cameron

Posted: July 31, 2013

My Current View of Man’s Sinfulness, by Michael Cameron (2010)

Bauckham, The Gospels and Eyewitnesses

Posted: July 31, 2013

GOSPELS AND EYEWITNESSES — Professor Richard Bauckham of Cambridge, England, one of the world’s most highly respected scholars on the New Testament, the early church, and Second Temple Judaism, has… Read More

New book from Douglas Jacoby!

Posted: July 31, 2013

Check out my latest release, The Ultimate Bible Quiz Book. CLICK HERE

HELPING CHRISTIANS DEAL WITH HOMOSEXUALITY

Posted: July 31, 2013

For the 5-lesson audio set (MP3), just released from IPI, click here. This is a joint production of AIM and SWI, the Athens Institute of Ministry and Strength in Weakness… Read More

Recommended books on understanding homosexuality

Posted: July 31, 2013

1. Joe Dallas, The Gay Gospel. Very easy to read. 2. Robert A. J. Gagnon, The Bible and Homosexual Practice. More in-depth. 3. Guy Hammond, Caring Beyond the Margins. Superb. For more:… Read More

Thoughts on Inerrancy, by Lang & Lamoureux

Posted: July 31, 2013

1. General Revelation & The Doctrine of Scripture, by John Lang 2. Lessons from the Heavens, by Denis O. Lamoureux

BIBLICAL STUDY TOUR, ISRAEL, October 2011

Posted: July 31, 2013

Full information in the attached file. Download the .doc file by clicking here.Registration details inside. To pay by credit card, click here. Previous BSTs: 2010: London & Oxford2009: Rome &… Read More

Personal note from Eastern Europe (2008)

Posted: July 31, 2013

Note to my family from Eastern Europe, 2008. Nothing theological here, but some who follow the IBTM will appreciate it.I’m eating dinner. It’s 9 pm. Plate of salmon with olives.  Every… Read More

BANGLADESH AIM Scholarships sought

Posted: July 31, 2013

AIM, the biblical training wing of the international teaching ministry, has found sponsorship for many students in the developing world. Would you contribute to, or wholly underwrite, one of our… Read More

Beyond Muslim Hostility (parts 1 and 2)

Posted: July 31, 2013

  gracEmail®Edward FudgeBEHIND MUSLIM HOSTILITY It is shocking to hear, as we now do with increasing frequency, that millions of Middle-Eastern Muslims hate the West, and the USA in particular…. Read More

News from the AACC

Posted: July 31, 2013

The following has been adapted from For the Record: The Foster Report, in (Christian Counseling Connection, Vol.17, No.2 (2010). 78% of adults were married in 1970, vs. only 57% in 2008…. Read More

Resources for Counseling and Mental Health, by Dr Penny Cox

Posted: July 31, 2013

Common Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression — download the .doc file by clicking here. Why Caring for Others Can Get Tough — download the .doc file by clicking here. Some… Read More