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Quarantine Church Con 2020 Video

Posted: April 22, 2020

Thank you for attending QCC2020! Quarantine Church Con 2020 Summary What an incredible time we had together last week! God brought together over 1,000 of his people to be equipped… Read More

How to Access the Abundance

Posted: April 17, 2020

How to access the abundance Access the podcast version of the newsletter by clicking here Abundance or scarcity? What is your outlook right now? I’ve been reading Dallas Willard’s book,… Read More

Q&A 1570—”The Lord put it on my heart”?

Posted: April 15, 2020

I often hear people saying, “The Lord put this on my heart.” Then they talk about their plan, or what they’re asking me to do for them. I do believe… Read More

Voices only: Virtual choirs are a hit | The Christian Chronicle

Posted: April 14, 2020

Voices only: Virtual choirs are a hit

Are We Making Disciples or Church Members? A FREE Resource

Posted: April 14, 2020

Dear Discipleship-first Friends, I hope the subject line got your attention because it is a vitally important question for the North American Church. Most of us have been trained to… Read More

Trust, Die, Rise—by Malcolm Cox

Posted: April 10, 2020

 “if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.” (Romans 6:5 NIV11) Trust, Die,… Read More

Believing in the Resurrection of Jesus, by Sam Laing

Posted: April 9, 2020

Believing in the Resurrection of Jesus How can we be believers in Jesus if we were not there and did not see him after he was raised from the dead?… Read More

LISTEN: Francis Collins on the pandemic through the lens of his faith 📡

Posted: April 9, 2020

  Notes: If you’ve been a regular listener to the Language of God podcast you’ve probably noticed our recent episodes have been a little different in attempt to respond to these times we’re… Read More

Q&A 1569—Does 1 Corinthians 11:3 mean women are forever subordinate to men?

Posted: April 7, 2020

Does 1 Corinthians 11:3 mean women are forever subordinate to men? Paul is considered to be a strong advocate for women, yet there is a passage or two in his… Read More

How Not to ‘Sink’, by Malcolm Cox

Posted: April 4, 2020

How not to ‘sink’ Access the podcast version of the newsletter by clicking here Thank you so much to everyone who gave me feedback on the topic of loneliness, especially… Read More

DISCIPLESHIP Bloom Where You’re Quarantined

Posted: April 3, 2020

DISCIPLESHIP Some of us were lonely well before the pandemic. How do we find God’s comfort now? Clarissa Moll This past Sunday, I took my children for a walk in… Read More

Playing God: Pandemic Brings Moral Dilemmas to US Hospitals

Posted: April 3, 2020

Two Christian bioethicists on life or death issues that American doctors may soon face. INTERVIEW BY KARA BETTIS March 31, 2020 Medical professionals across the US are preparing COVID-19 units… Read More

Compassion or Judgment?

Posted: April 1, 2020

Compassion or Judgment? Choose Today! You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one. – John 8:15 ​ Compassion or Judgment? Facing loss is never easy and suicide in particular, is… Read More

End-of-Life Care, by Dr. Penny Cox

Posted: March 29, 2020

Listen to Dr. Penny Cox, a follower of Christ and a general practitioner in Britain, as she speaks sensitively and compassionately about end-of-life issues.

“Washing with the Word,” with Malcolm Cox

Posted: March 23, 2020

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you….Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27 NIV11) Mar 23, 10:21 AM Access the… Read More

How Churches of Christ responded when the 1918 ‘Spanish flu’ killed millions

Posted: March 22, 2020

Many congregations canceled services, and some Christians focused on feeding and nursing the poor. By John Mark Hicks NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Nashville saw its first case of the “Spanish flu” in… Read More

BBC News: Coronavirus: Creativity, kindness and canals offer hope amid outbreak

Posted: March 21, 2020

I saw this on the BBC News App and thought you should see it: From environmental improvements to acts of kindness, there are glimmers of light amid the crisis. Continue… Read More

“New Podcast Series for the Duration of Covid 19,” by Malcolm Cox

Posted: March 19, 2020

New Podcast Series Something to get you through the Covid 19 crisis with your spirit intact. Introducing the new daily podcast based on the Psalms of Ascent (Psalms 120-134) The… Read More

Viral Christianity, by Rob Krantz

Posted: March 16, 2020

Viral Christianity by Rob Kranz The beauty of a blog is that you are in full control of what you write about. Most of the time, I write about things I… Read More

Faith and Finances Ministry

Posted: March 16, 2020

FAITH AND FINANCES: A 21ST CENTURY BIBLICAL GUIDE FOR GROWING, PROTECTING, AND USING YOUR MONEY CLICK HERE TO ORDER NOW! “Faith and Finances is a timely and much-needed exposition on… Read More

Coronavirus (Covid-19): A Christian Response

Posted: March 13, 2020

LESSONS FOR YOU AND ME: Don’t over-react Trust the Lord Beware the real virus: sin Be excellent stewards of the time Don’t overanalyze Care deeply about others, not just ourselves… Read More

“Untangling Addiction,” by Marcus De Carvalho

Posted: March 12, 2020

Dr. Marcus De Carvalho is a world renown specialist in addictions and a great friend to SIW. In this e-book he introduces hope and the ability to overcome the “hijacking”… Read More

Down Syndrome and the Image of God

Posted: March 9, 2020

By Samuel L. Caraballo A biology teacher sees things with a new perspective when his own child is born with trisomy 21, and reflects on her life and what it… Read More

Approaching Adam: Talking with Kids about Human Origins and the Bible

Posted: March 9, 2020

  “Hey, Mom and Dad, where do humans come from?” Christy gives some helpful dos and don’ts to help parents lead theological and scientific conversations with their children. Read More >… Read More

“Crucial Conversations in Texas” – Malcolm Cox

Posted: March 9, 2020

  Click here for the newsletter podcast version – with extra ‘bits’ The value of conversation As you may know I’ve been in Texas for a few days at the… Read More

Can Your Church Thrive in Exile?

Posted: March 9, 2020

Can Your Church Thrive in Exile? A Conversation with Randy Gariss Randy Gariss was minister of Joplin’s College Heights Christian Church when a mile-wide F5 tornado mowed into Joplin. Randy… Read More

The Movie FINDING GUY Free on You Tube

Posted: March 5, 2020

Five Years in the Making & Nominated for Best Documentary & Best Director at the 2018 International Christian Film Festival in Miami Learn More

“The Importance of Joy”

Posted: March 3, 2020

I find it very significant that on the last night of His life Jesus talked a lot about joy. Not exactly the topic you would expect from somebody about to… Read More

Are You Creating Disciples or Consumers? Interview with Kelvin Teamer

Posted: March 2, 2020

What does revival look like in the 21st century?  Are You Creating Disciples or Consumers? An Interview with Kelvin Teamer Church leaders often want to preach what feels good, and church people… Read More

CLEAN- podcast 20, Widow of Zarephath & Son (= OT character podcast 63)

Posted: March 1, 2020

We now begin CLEAN sub-series Reanimation. To listen to CLEAN podcast 20, The Widow of Zarephath & Son (17 minutes), click on the arrow. To download and listen later, right click here and choose ‘save target… Read More

The tragedy of the even dumber church

Posted: February 29, 2020

Christian theologian Dr. William Lane Craig during debate at Purdue University, Feb. 1, 2013. | (Photo: Nicole Byrd) It’s true – time really does fly. Eight years ago, I wrote an article… Read More

The Golden Rule & the Silver Rule

Posted: February 29, 2020

Examples of the Silver & Golden Rules in the world’s philosophies and religions: Jainism: “A man should wander about treating all creatures as he himself would be treated.” — Sutrakritanga, 1.11.33… Read More

Mental Health in the Church Setting 2020

Posted: February 26, 2020

Mental Health in the Church Setting Therefore, among God’s churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring. – 2 Thessalonians 1:4 I’ve… Read More

The Emotionally Healthy Leader, by John Teal

Posted: February 22, 2020

The Emotionally Healthy Leader Last fall, I reluctantly agreed to take a class called Emotionally Healthy Spirituality. It was being offered by a couple in our congregation. As I read… Read More

THE UNSURPRISING PUSH FOR POLYGAMY

Posted: February 22, 2020

Dear marriage supporter, If two men can marry one another, why not three? Or why not two men and a woman? What’s so special about the number two once it’s… Read More

Polyamory: Pastors’ Next Sexual Frontier

Posted: February 22, 2020

CT PASTORS Polyamory: Pastors’ Next Sexual Frontier These once-taboo relationships are showing up in churches across the US. Preston Sprinkle and Branson Parler   A pastor recently told me (Preston)… Read More

Why a Contradiction Seems Convincing

Posted: February 21, 2020

Why a Contradiction Seems Convincing Click Here to Listen It’s easy to believe a lie when you haven’t heard the whole story. But have you ever wondered how people can… Read More

“Is There a God?” Debate: Jacoby vs. Shermer

Posted: February 20, 2020

“What is the True Legacy of Abraham?” – Debate

Posted: February 20, 2020

Interview with Fred Gray

Posted: February 20, 2020

Science, Man and God: (Part 3) Michael Shermer vs. Douglas Jacoby

Posted: February 20, 2020

Science, Man and God: (Part 2) Michael Shermer vs. Douglas Jacoby

Posted: February 20, 2020

Science, Man and God: (Part 1) Michael Shermer vs. Douglas Jacoby

Posted: February 20, 2020



Jesus: Man, Myth or Messiah? Part 2 – Jacoby’s Opening Statements

Posted: February 20, 2020

Jesus: Man, Myth or Messiah? Part 1 – Jacoby’s Opening Statements

Posted: February 20, 2020

Jesus: Man, Myth or Messiah? – Intro to Debate

Posted: February 20, 2020

Why Believe in the God of the Bible?

Posted: February 20, 2020

Father’s Day – Douglas Jacoby

Posted: February 20, 2020

Watch Doug’s sermon on Exodus 20 – “Honor Your Father”

The Problem of Human Suffering-Session 4

Posted: February 19, 2020

The Problem of Human Suffering-Session 3

Posted: February 19, 2020

The Problem of Human Suffering-Session 2

Posted: February 19, 2020

The Problem of Human Suffering-Session 1

Posted: February 19, 2020

“A Movement Divided” by Samuel Escobar

Posted: February 19, 2020

Three approaches to world evangelization stand in tension with one another. Samuel Escobar (Peru) is President of the Latin American Theological Fraternity and Professor at Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Philadelphia,… Read More

Becoming a Pastor Theologian (thought-provoking quotes)

Posted: February 19, 2020

Thought-provoking excerpts from Todd Wilson and Gerald Hiestand, eds. Becoming a Pastor Theologian: New Possibilities for Church Leadership (Downers Grove IL: InterVarsity Academic, 2016), pp. 2, 19, 41-42, 56, 90,… Read More

Delving into the history of black churches

Posted: February 18, 2020

Delving into the history of black churches | The Christian Chronicle Edward J. Robinson’s newest book, “Hard-Fighting Soldiers: A History of African American Churches of Christ,” takes its title from… Read More

“Jesus & Melchizedek”

Posted: February 17, 2020

“Can a Christian be an environmentalist?”

Posted: February 15, 2020

“Caring for Creation” Click here for the newsletter podcast version – with extra ‘bits’ We have seen what I would call “proper weather” this last week. Flights cancelled, trees felled,… Read More

Which Battery Does Your Marriage Run On?

Posted: February 14, 2020

   Which Battery Does Your Marriage Run On? Click Here to Listen Items which run on batteries are irritations waiting to happen. Something stops working. You’ve got to find a… Read More

Are You an American Church? (London, 1986)

Posted: February 10, 2020

The article I wrote back in 1986 about the origins of the Churches of Christ in the U.K. May be of some interest to some readers.  

What is safety?

Posted: February 10, 2020

“How to be safe” Click here for the newsletter podcast version – with extra ‘bits’ It’s easy to become obsessed with safety. And with good reason. The coronavirus seems to… Read More

Paul’s Prison Journey—Malta, Sicily, Italy (29 Oct-8 Nov 2022)

Posted: February 10, 2020

. Participants: 30 (from England, Scotland, Italy, Spain, Canada, and 9 US states) . The apostle Paul was no stranger to prison. As he famously declared, “The Holy Spirit testifies to… Read More

SOM 40—Wow!

Posted: February 9, 2020

And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes (Matthew 7:28-29)…. Read More

The Best Non-Leadership Leadership Story

Posted: February 8, 2020

  The Best Non-Leadership Leadership Story Matthew Dicks is a teacher, author, and award-winning storyteller. In this wonderfully funny TEDx Talk, titled “Speak Less-Expect More,” Matthew shares incredible insights on… Read More

SOM 39—Sand

Posted: February 8, 2020

24 “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came,… Read More

SOM 38—Lord, Lord

Posted: February 7, 2020

21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22… Read More

SOM 37—Prophets?

Posted: February 6, 2020

15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from… Read More

Discipling Busy People Online (and More)

Posted: February 5, 2020

Discipleship-First Friends, I am just completing an experiment in disciple making with some current and future leaders in the staff at our church that I wanted to share with you…. Read More

SOM 36—Narrow

Posted: February 5, 2020

“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate… Read More

SOM 35—Gold

Posted: February 4, 2020

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12).   Comment This sentence sums up much of… Read More

SOM 34—Ask

Posted: February 3, 2020

7 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and the… Read More

SOM 33—Swine

Posted: February 2, 2020

“Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you” (Matthew 7:6).   This text connects with… Read More

SOM 32—Judge

Posted: February 1, 2020

1 “Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to… Read More

Bad Plot Summaries

Posted: January 31, 2020

   Click Here to Listen Have you read any of the “bad plot summaries” that are going around the internet? For example, here’s a bad plot summary of the Lord of… Read More

SOM 31—Kingdom

Posted: January 31, 2020

33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will… Read More

SOM 30—Anxious

Posted: January 30, 2020

25 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on…. Read More

SOM 29—Mammon

Posted: January 29, 2020

“No man can serve two masters. For either he will hate the one and love the other. Or else he will hold fast to the one and despise the other…. Read More

SOM 28—Darkness

Posted: January 28, 2020

The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is single, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is evil, your whole body… Read More

SOM 27—Treasure

Posted: January 27, 2020

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where… Read More

SOM 26—Fast

Posted: January 26, 2020

Moreover, when you fast, do not put on a sad face like the hypocrites. For they disfigure their faces so that they may appear to men to fast. Truly I… Read More

SOM 25—Forgive

Posted: January 25, 2020

For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew… Read More

SOM 24—THE Prayer

Posted: January 24, 2020

  “Pray then like this: Our Father in heaven,    hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come,     your will be done,       on earth as it is… Read More

SOM 23—Prayer

Posted: January 23, 2020

5 “And when you pray, do not be as the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, so they may… Read More

SOM 22—Alms

Posted: January 22, 2020

“Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly,… Read More

SOM 21—Show-off!

Posted: January 21, 2020

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew… Read More

SOM 20–Perfection

Posted: January 20, 2020

“You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48).     On the previous topic, “Enemies:” Jesus, Paul, and the early church spoke clearly and definitively about the… Read More

SOM 19—Enemies

Posted: January 19, 2020

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may… Read More

SOM 18—Retaliation

Posted: January 18, 2020

38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’39 But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps… Read More

Almost Half of Practicing Christian Millennials Say Evangelism Is Wrong – Barna Group

Posted: January 17, 2020

Sharing one’s faith—evangelizing—is a core practice among many religions. For Christians, it’s viewed as a mandate from Jesus himself before he departed earth: commanding his disciples to “spread the good… Read More

SOM 17—Oaths

Posted: January 17, 2020

33 “Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ 34 But I say to you, Do not take… Read More

SOM 16—Divorce

Posted: January 16, 2020

“It was said, ‘Whoever sends his wife away, let him give her a certificate of divorce’; but I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except for the… Read More

Losing our Religion: Conservative churches grapple with gender issues in time of growth

Posted: January 15, 2020

www.washingtontimes.com 5 mins read Religious conservative leaders at the national level see the fight over gender issues as make-or-break. (Associated Press/File) U.S. church attendance is dropping, but Hope Church in Memphis, Tennessee, is… Read More

SOM 15—Lust

Posted: January 15, 2020

27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in… Read More

SOM 14—Anger

Posted: January 14, 2020

You have heard that it was said by those of old, you will not kill; and whoever kills will be in danger of the judgment. But I say to you… Read More

125 Countries and 1 Core Mission – Interview with Douglas Jacoby

Posted: January 13, 2020

Renew.org If you had the opportunity to sit down and talk with a world traveling disciple maker, what questions would you ask? As for me, I was curious about what… Read More

SOM 13—Pharisees

Posted: January 13, 2020

“For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:20).   Jesus’ words would probably have… Read More

List of Audio Lessons

Posted: January 12, 2020

Non-members can listen to several of the audio lessons (the Jesus N.T. Character Podcast, A Christian Response to Global Financial Crisis; Serving the Poor: Second Thoughts; Avatar; The Hunger Games, etc.), but… Read More

SOM 12—Fulfillment

Posted: January 12, 2020

17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 For truly, I say to… Read More

SOM 11—Light

Posted: January 11, 2020

You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do men light a lamp and put it under a basket, but… Read More

Everyday Disciple Maker: Debbra Stephens

Posted: January 10, 2020

      Everyday Disciple Maker: Debbra Stephens CLICK HERE TO LISTEN Whether you work in sales or in a school, whether a preacher or a plumber, there is one… Read More

SOM 10—Salt

Posted: January 10, 2020

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt becomes foolish, how will it be salted? It is thereafter good for nothing but to be thrown out and… Read More

SOM 09—Persecuted

Posted: January 9, 2020

     “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.       Blessed are you when men speak abusively of you,… Read More

SOM 08—Peacemaking

Posted: January 8, 2020

“Blessed are the peacemakers,    for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9).  “If most of us are honest with ourselves, we know that there are many… Read More

Q&A 1568—Salt losing saltiness?

Posted: January 8, 2020

In Matthew 5:13 we read, “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for… Read More

SOM 07—Pure

Posted: January 7, 2020

“Blessed are the pure in heart,      for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8).   (1) PURITY: A constant theme in Jesus’ teaching is that God looks not only at… Read More

Racism: Twisted reasoning

Posted: January 7, 2020

Douglas Jacoby,  Washington DC (1993) (recommended by Russ Ewell, San Francisco) Prejudice is ugly and widespread, knowing no borders. Yet even more detestable is the use of biblical authority to justify… Read More

SOM 06—Merciful

Posted: January 6, 2020

      The 5th beatitude: “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7). My friend David Berçot, who has examined all the ancient Christian writings, helps… Read More

SOM 05—Hungry

Posted: January 5, 2020

      “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness / justice, for they will be satisfied.” What does this mean? Consider such passages as: “Man does not… Read More

SOM 04—Meek

Posted: January 4, 2020

      “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5) “Meek” is a word we seldom use. It does not mean “weak.” It derives from the Old Norse mjúkr,… Read More

Netflix’s ‘Messiah’ Says the World Needs a Savior | Christianity Today

Posted: January 3, 2020

On January 1, Netflix released its latest über-bingeable series, Messiah, telling an all-too-believable story about the rise of a contemporary messianic figure known as Al-Masih (played by Mehdi Dehbi). Appearing out… Read More

11 Nigerian Christians Executed in ISIS Christmas Video | News & Reporting | Christianity Today

Posted: January 3, 2020

11 Nigerian Christians Executed in ISIS Christmas Video…… | News & Reporting | Christianity Today In another filmed massacre, 11 Nigerian Christians were executed by the Islamic State West African… Read More

Something You Can Never Be

Posted: January 3, 2020

Something You Can Never Be CLICK HERE TO LISTEN   Have you ever been told an expression by somebody older than you which makes absolutely no sense to your generation?… Read More

SOM 03—Mourning

Posted: January 3, 2020

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:4). In the background there are well over 100 scriptural passages on mourning, like this one, where Jesus identifies himself… Read More

Does Science Disprove Faith?

Posted: January 2, 2020

By John Ortberg on January 1, 2020 This piece has been adapted from the transcript of a sermon delivered by John Ortberg at Menlo Park Presbyterian Church on January 5, 2014, and has… Read More

SOM 02—Poor

Posted: January 2, 2020

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). There are at least 20 beatitudes uttered by Jesus in the N.T. (8 in Matthew,… Read More

Invitation for Newsletter Signup

Posted: January 1, 2020

SOM 01—The Mountain

Posted: January 1, 2020

Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. (Matt 5:1-2 ESV) Mountains in the Bible are associated with Moses (Exod 19-20),… Read More

OT62-The Prophetess Huldah

Posted: January 1, 2020

Hebrew & Greek words: chuldah = mole. See the Huldah Gates (entrance into Temple precinct). nevi’ah = prophetess (Greek prophêtis) navi’ = prophet (Greek prophétēs) Prophetesses of the Bible: Old Testament… Read More

The Most Important Habit for 2020

Posted: December 31, 2019

I like New Year’s resolutions. About 60% of Americans will join with me and make them over the next few days as we head into 2020. Here is the most… Read More

SOM 00—Introduction—It Still Haunts Us

Posted: December 27, 2019

The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is the section of the New Testament widely agreed to contain the very heart of Jesus’ kingdom message. The teachings were and still are… Read More

The Overlooked Nativity Character

Posted: December 25, 2019

The Overlooked Nativity Character by Rob Kranz An old girlfriend once told me that the groom was just “a prop” at the wedding. The focus of the entire ceremony is supposed to… Read More

Christmas Quiz

Posted: December 25, 2019

Take the test (without going online or looking up the answers).   Which was Jesus’s birthplace: Nazareth, Bethlehem, Egypt, or Capernaum? What is a manger: baby crib, food trough, soft container, or Christmas cradle?… Read More

Share with Us: Your Top Disciple Making Apps or Mobile Sites

Posted: December 11, 2019

​ Dear Discipleship-First Tribe, One of the major developments coming for disciple makers moving into 2020 is the proliferation of digital apps and mobile sites (that function like apps) to… Read More

Are the Crusades the Ultimate Black Mark Against Christianity? by Rob Kranz

Posted: December 4, 2019

Are the Crusades the Ultimate Black Mark Against Christianity? by Rob Kranz “How could anyone defend a religion that would sanction the Crusades?” Having spent a year living in Jerusalem in the… Read More

New Beginnings Are Possible

Posted: November 29, 2019

By Dan Armstrong • In the summer of 2019, two-time NBA champion, Olympic medalist, and reality TV star Lamar Odom announced he was giving up porn. But, he didn’t have a… Read More

Language of God Podcast: Adam & Eve

Posted: November 28, 2019

Thanksgiving, Disciple Making, and the Deuteronomy 8 Principle – Discipleship.org

Posted: November 27, 2019

Discipleship-First Friends, Thanksgiving is an important day on many levels. We are committed to helping you be a disciple who makes disciples, so we know it’s important to “give thanks in… Read More

“Are You Possessed?”

Posted: November 25, 2019

Sermon given by Doug on 11-24-19 at the North River Church of Christ in Atlanta, GA.

Should You be a Pastor or a Professor? Thinking Through the Options – Canon Fodder

Posted: November 22, 2019

Since I am a professor at a seminary, it is not unusual (indeed, it is very common) for students to come to me for advice about whether they should enter… Read More

Q&A 1567—Have you smoked marijuana?

Posted: November 22, 2019

What does the bibble [sic] say about marijuana? After all, it is just a plant. Have you smoked it? Have you read about the effects it has on you? This is… Read More

Worst practices for dismissing a minister | The Christian Chronicle

Posted: November 21, 2019

Church experts and those who have been there discuss what not to do when firing a minister. Talking with ministers who have lost their jobs can feel repetitive.  And depressing…. Read More

2 Ways to Fuel Disciple Making

Posted: November 14, 2019

We believe discipleship is the core mission of the church. That is why fueling discipleship is our mission. We can only do this with your prayers and support. Would you prayerfully consider joining… Read More

6 Things to Avoid in Dating – Third Drive Faith

Posted: November 14, 2019

Do you have a friend who needs good dating advice? Send this to him or her! Click here for more.

“I Was a Misunderstood Muslim: Common Misconceptions About Islam”

Posted: November 10, 2019

News about terrorist attacks may teach us about some Muslims, but not about most Muslims — and probably not about the Muslims down the street. Continue reading here. www.desiringgod.org

Q&A 1566—What color is Jesus?

Posted: November 8, 2019

Please, you claim to be the only Christians that are right, so tell me have you ever seen Jesus in the flesh, and if so what colour is he? —R.B…. Read More

Muscle and a Shovel | The Christian Chronicle

Posted: November 6, 2019

Muscle and a Shovel | The Christian Chronicle Muscle and a Shovel is a raw and gritty true story about a pair of young newly-weds who move to the city… Read More

OT61—Michal, Abigail, Bathsheba

Posted: November 1, 2019

Hebrew words: Mikhál = brook ‘Avigail = my father is joy Bath-sheva’ = daughter of the oath David’s wives: Ahinoam, Maachah, Haggith, Abital, Eglah Michal, Abigail, Bathsheba—and possibly more Note: this does not… Read More

Why should Christians care for creation?

Posted: October 31, 2019

  New Common Question: Why should Christians care for creation? As bearers of God’s image, all people have the responsibility and privilege of caring for God’s creation. How can we… Read More

The Cautionary Tale of Jerry Falwell Jr. | Christianity Today

Posted: October 25, 2019

Something doesn’t smell right in Lynchburg, Virginia, home of Liberty University and its controversial president, Jerry Falwell Jr. According to a September report in Politico: “Everybody is scared for their… Read More

David Young and Eric Metaxas? Say no more!

Posted: October 25, 2019

Our very own cofounder, David Young, was recently on The Eric Metaxas Show! Leaders are talking about A Grand Illusion, you can join the conversation. Friends, In case you don’t know, Eric Metaxas… Read More

Q&A 1565—Have any ideas for a personal spiritual retreat?

Posted: October 25, 2019

Q: Thanks for sharing about your personal spiritual retreat in Canada [October 2019]. This is making me curious (and I suspect that others might be wondering also) about what is… Read More

Church and Culture, with Christian Ray Flores

Posted: October 23, 2019

Recently I caught up with one of the workshop presenters at our November 6th Gathering, Christian Ray Flores. Christian is a Renew.org co-founder and has an interesting perspective on culture and… Read More

What Should I Do To Become a Christian Teacher?, by John Oakes 

Posted: October 20, 2019

Adapted with permission from Evidenceforchristianity.org I [John Oakes] have been serving as a teacher in one way or another for more than thirty years.  It is my career, as a professor… Read More

Strength in Weakness Workshop – Duluth, GA

Posted: October 18, 2019

Guy Hammond’s Strength in Weakness ministry will be at the Cornerstone Church in Duluth, GA the weekend of Oct. 25-27, 2019. Here are links for more details: https://www.strengthinweakness.org/ 678.957.4715 info@cornerstoneduluth.org

Does God Promise to Heal Our Land? by Greg Koukl

Posted: October 17, 2019

Greg explains how 2 Chronicles 7:14 is used incorrectly by Christians thinking it’s speaking to them. Click here to play. Transcript: I want to speak for a moment about the danger of… Read More

The Top 100 Verses on Money and Wealth

Posted: October 16, 2019

Bookmark the list for Bible study, reference, and sharing with others. Top 100 Bible Verses on Money and Wealth Also see the Topical Index of Money and Wealth Scriptures The latest… Read More

Outgrowing Facts – Tyndale House

Posted: October 16, 2019

Assyriologist George Heath-Whyte explains the errors in Richard Dawkins’ new book Richard Dawkins was asked by journalist Krishnan Guru-Murthy in an interview recently, “If you could change the world, how would you change… Read More

The Tyndale House Greek New Testament online 

Posted: October 16, 2019

We are delighted to announce, in partnership with Crossway publishers, that the Tyndale House Greek New Testament (THGNT), edited by Tyndale House Academic Vice Principal Dr Dirk Jongkind and Principal Dr Peter J Williams, is… Read More

Best practices for dismissing a minister – Christian Chronicle

Posted: October 16, 2019

Church experts and those who have been there offer five key recommendations for leaders. Cheryl Mann Bacon Columnist Somewhere in the unwritten but badly needed handbook for elders are three… Read More

SBC President: We Failed to Heed Victims’ Voices

Posted: October 15, 2019

SBC President J. D. Greear speaks at the ERLC’s Caring Well Conference on October 3.Southern Baptist Convention President J. D. Greear acknowledged that while sexual abuse survivors have pleaded with… Read More

Q&A 1564—Can we dispense with the Old Testament?

Posted: October 11, 2019

The Book of Hebrews says the Old Covenant is obsolete, so since I already believe in Christ, I don’t need to bother with the Old Testament.—E.E. As there is a… Read More

Trinity Debate: Dr. James White v Dr. Shabir Ally

Posted: October 7, 2019

Debate – Tawheed or Trinity: Is God One or Three Divine Persons? Event in Atlanta, GA by Why Should I Believe at Georgia Tech on Wednesday, November 13 2019 6:30-9pm… Read More

CRISPR babies?

Posted: October 2, 2019

What should we think of DNA experiments and developments? Jim Stump ponders the most recent developments in the realm of gene editing, including CRISPR babies, the problem of chimeras, and more,… Read More

Q&A 1563—Jesus is my husband?

Posted: September 27, 2019

My book club is reading Falling in Love With Jesus: Abandoning Yourself to the Greatest Romance of Your Life. The authors teach that Christian women, whether single or married, should refer to… Read More

Jesus and His Enemies

Posted: September 22, 2019

My sermon at the North River Church of Christ on Sunday 22 September 2019 (9 am service). Principal texts: Luke 23:34 and Matt 5:38-48.

Online Bible Test—Am I a Student of the Word?

Posted: September 20, 2019

How well do we know God’s Word? Here’s a tool to evaluate our level of Bible knowledge. The diagnostic test at 3 levels has been constructed with the help of many around… Read More

Spiritual Abuse in Marriage

Posted: September 20, 2019

This is part 1 of a 2 part series. Written by:  Darby Strickland, Counselor Read part 1 here.

Shared Church

Posted: September 19, 2019

“. . . members together of one body and sharers together . . .”  (Eph. 3:6) Shared Church aims to encourage Christians and churches to practice participatory body life—the one-anothering… Read More

Is Your Church Missing the Communication Train? — by Christian Ray

Posted: September 18, 2019

Ask the tech-savvy youth in your church: How relevant and compelling is our communication? Are we truly engaging the information revolution to communicate the gospel to as many people as… Read More

How a Gay Man and a Christian Minister Became Great Friends

Posted: September 18, 2019

Kidogo – Christian Practicals 2.67K subscribers Guy Hammond used to live a gay life before he became a Christian. Now, as Christian minister, he runs an international ministry dedicated to… Read More

Facts Concerning Social Media Use in 2019

Posted: September 16, 2019

Social Media – A powerful tool https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6k_G_h41ZaQ  

Q&A 1562—Recently discovered letter from Egypt shows early Christians worldly?

Posted: September 13, 2019

What do you think about the recently discovered Christian letter? I learned about this through Fox News. The article is titled “1,700-year-old recently discovered Christian letter offers clues into how faithful… Read More

Gauging The Health of Your Church Members

Posted: September 12, 2019

By CSN on Sep 05, 2019 01:00 pm There are many ways you can assess the spiritual health of your church members. Faith, regular church attendance, and engagement in community… Read More

What is the Bible? (Rob Bell), by Jon Sherwood

Posted: September 7, 2019

“Just let the Bible be whatever it is.” … But just what is the Bible? What is the Bible? This is a vitally important question. Rob Bell is a famous… Read More

Are Most Scientists Atheists?

Posted: September 7, 2019

ARE MOST SCIENTISTS ATHEISTS? Baruch Aba Shalev wrote a book titled 100 Years of Nobel Prizes. That book contains a report on Nobel prizes awarded between 1901 and 2000. During that period, when 423… Read More

Chik-fil-A – “Anti-equality giving”

Posted: September 7, 2019

CHICK-FIL-A GIVING. San Antonio, Texas, and Buffalo, New York, have kicked Chick-fil-A out of their airports for “aiding and abetting Christian organizations.” What is especially ironic is that it is the charity work of… Read More

Understanding Myths That May Hold Us Back

Posted: September 5, 2019

Don’t Be Fooled Into Believing These Final Two GRIEF MYTHS You have taken from me my closest friends and have made me repulsive to them. I am confined and cannot… Read More

Faithfulness Is Not Theologically Complicated (Greg Koukl)

Posted: September 2, 2019

Greg Koukl continues to turn out thought-provoking articles, accessible and interesting. (Personally, I thought his section on salvation was over-simplified, but every other section was excellent. – DJ) Faithfulness Is… Read More

OT Character Podcast 60, Mephibosheth

Posted: September 1, 2019

Introduction Our O.T. character today is a minor character. And yet doesn’t mean he isn’t important. The relationship between David and Jonathan (Saul’s son, next in line for the throne)… Read More

Q&A 1561—Boring to be with God for all eternity?

Posted: August 30, 2019

We believe we Christians will spend eternity with God. No disrespect meant, but sooner or later, wouldn’t that grow old? Maybe the first few years or centuries would be great,… Read More

The Evolution of a Homeschooling Mom

Posted: August 29, 2019

By Kendra Terpstra on August 16, 2019 Whenever people ask me how I found out about BioLogos, I usually give them a quick elevator speech that begins with when I first read… Read More

The Developer’s Dark Side, by Craig Groeschel

Posted: August 26, 2019

This thought-provoking podcast explores four critical weaknesses in leadership: controlling, criticizing, avoiding, and rescuing. Craig Groeschel is connected with Life Church, and puts out a monthly podcast. Listen here.

Season 2 of Language of God

Posted: August 26, 2019

“One thing I see at the orthodox cores of our traditions is that at one and the same time we are to hold faithfully to truth as we know it… Read More

The Billy Graham Rule Goes to Court | News & Reporting | Christianity Today

Posted: August 23, 2019

A North Carolina sheriff’s deputy sues his former employer for religious discrimination after it wouldn’t accommodate his request to not train a female officer one-on-one. David Roach August 20, 2019… Read More

Searching for Disciple Making Churches and Movements in North America?

Posted: August 21, 2019

Dear Discipleship-First Tribe, We want you to become the disciple maker God intends you to be. For those of you who are church leaders, we also want you to develop… Read More

“Our Family Spent Too Much Money Last Year” by Patrick Blair

Posted: August 21, 2019

Late last year, I noticed our family checkbook was getting very light. Dread filled my mind as I realized that we would need to borrow money to pay our bills… Read More

Video on Relativism

Posted: August 16, 2019

Today, PraegerU released Paul Copan’s five-minute video on relativism—“True for You, But Not for Me.” This is a great platform for intelligent public discourse on this topic and its pernicious… Read More

Q&A 1560—Did Joshua violate the Sabbath?

Posted: August 16, 2019

In Joshua 6, God commanded the Israelites to circle the city 7 days in a row. Therefore, one of those days had to be a Sabbath. Would walking around the… Read More

Feedback on the Online Bible Test

Posted: August 11, 2019

Two persons (perhaps more) were not so fond of the Online Bible Test, commenting that it isn’t as important to know chapter and verse, or the arrangement of biblical books, as… Read More

Islam & Christianity (lesson from Azerbaijan)

Posted: August 6, 2019

The podcast Islam & Christianity (26 minutes) is intended to help the new student of world religions to develop a feel for how the two faiths connect. This is material I… Read More

How to Invite a Transgender Person to Church, by Brandon Redler

Posted: August 2, 2019

Christian Cyborgs?!? A Serious Conversation About Science and Humanity

Posted: August 2, 2019

Man melding with machine. Anti-aging technology. Brain-computer interface. Gene-edited “designer” babies. Some scientific advances go beyond helping humanity overcome obstacles. They actually begin to help humanity overcome, well . …. Read More

Q&A 1559—Why Did God Tell Abraham to Sacrifice Isaac?

Posted: August 2, 2019

Why did the Lord tell Abraham to sacrifice Isaac? This seems barbaric. Indeed, this is one of the more disturbing passages of the Old Testament. In the 22nd chapter of… Read More

Two Things to Know for Back-to-School Time

Posted: July 31, 2019

First – Learn from Disciple Making Leader: Small Circle Steve McCoy is the leader of Small Circle, one of our trusted disciple-making partners. Here’s what he told us about his ministry… Read More

Common Grounds – 3rd Chapter in San Diego

Posted: July 30, 2019

Common Grounds (www.cgunity.com) – Third chapter starting in September (9/26, 11:30am-1:00pm) in San Diego. Robert Carrillo is speaking, see flyer with all info here.

“Scripture-Soaked” – message at North River Church

Posted: July 29, 2019

Watch the message given in Atlanta (North River Church) on July 28, 2019.

“A Life Well-Lived: Let’s Be Honest” – from Proverbs

Posted: July 29, 2019

Sermon I did in the Midpoint Ministry (Chicago) on July 21, 2019. (The sermon begins at about 0:38, and ends at 1:12.) Posted by Midpoint Ministry Center of the Chicago Church… Read More

Biblical Town of Ziklag May Have Been Discovered

Posted: July 24, 2019

Located between Kiryat Gat and Lachish in southern Israel, Khirbet a-Ra‘i has been the site of excavations since 2015. The researchers recently announced their belief that they have uncovered the… Read More

Q&A 1558—Open communion?

Posted: July 19, 2019

I agree with your take on communion as an actual meal. Concerning excluding unbelievers because they can’t “connect” with it, did the early church use this rationale for any means… Read More

Más Allá de la Vida 1 & 2, por Arturo Elizarrarás

Posted: July 17, 2019

Podcast 1 Podcast 2   Más Allá de la Vida – Slides  

Ebola survivor Dr. Kent Brantly returning to Africa as medical missionary

Posted: July 16, 2019

FORT WORTH, Texas — Dr. Kent Brantly sat on his counselor’s couch and wept. The tears came last summer as the Christian physician visited with Dottie Schulz, a missionary care volunteer… Read More

Mark Moore on Life, Legacy and Core 52

Posted: July 15, 2019

I was recently able to catch up with Renew Gathering speaker Mark Moore. We talked about life transitions, creating a legacy, personal discipline, and a new book he has written… Read More

How to Avoid the Professor’s Ploy, by Greg Koukl

Posted: July 10, 2019

Part 7: Greg addresses a situation where you may be tempted to take on the burden of proof in conversation about Christianity. Watch video here.

What is the Bible (Rob Bell), by Jon Sherwood

Posted: July 9, 2019

“Just let the Bible be whatever it is.”…But just what is the Bible?  What is the Bible? This is a vitally important question. Rob Bell is a famous American author,… Read More

Tired of Living as Predictably as a Facebook Advertisement? – Renew.org

Posted: July 6, 2019

  Headlines were buzzing with the announcement. Facebook had introduced a new metric that would significantly revamp their algorithms. Continue here.

Ancient DNA reveals the origins of the Philistines

Posted: July 5, 2019

FROM THE SEA  DNA obtained from remains of people who inhabited an ancient city on Israel’s coast, including this child, indicate that the Philistines mentioned in the Hebrew Bible descended… Read More

Q&A 1557—Why weren’t Ruth—and David—excluded from Israel?

Posted: July 5, 2019

In Deut 23:3 God gives the command that no descendants of the Moabites even to the tenth generation may enter the assembly of the Lord. I was wondering if Ruth… Read More

Diplomado en Consejería Bíblica 2019

Posted: July 4, 2019

Agosto-Octubre 2019   La Fundación Proyecto Esdras, A. C., en alianza con In-Motion Counseling, presentan este curso especial sobre Consejería Bíblica en sus dos modalidades: División Entrenamiento para Ministros: MTA-BL03 Principios… Read More

Control, part 3

Posted: July 3, 2019

TRUST Rom 15:14—confident in church to handle issues of church. I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent… Read More

Control, part 2

Posted: July 3, 2019

4) Abuse of authority Leaders have authority, but not to create their own rules, or in the language of Jeremiah, “to rule by their own authority” (Jer 5:30-31). “Giving up… Read More

Control, part 1

Posted: July 3, 2019

Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so… Read More