Book Review–The Doctrine and Administration of the Church
The Doctrine and Administration of The Church Book Review Recently I read the book The Doctrine and Administration of the Church by Paul R. Jackson. While I had never heard of this book previously, it was recommended to me as a standard text on the topic of church polity. Therefore, I decided to read through […]
Spiritual Barrenness
Introduction We are at the time of year when our Minnesota landscape begins to change. Plants lose their color, grass ceases to grow, and in keeping with the name of the season–fall, leaves float to the ground from their location on tree branches. In many senses, our countryside is beginning to look barren. Soon the […]
Ministry Faithfulness
Introduction I have been thinking about finishing well. As I study through the end of II Timothy and prepare for closing out my current sermon series on this book, I am struck at Paul’s faithfulness. Even throughout his last days, he never stopped ministering. In II Timothy 4, while sitting in prison, the Apostle Paul […]
The “Enough” Filled Life
Introduction In the contemporary Christian world, there has been a lot of “hype” recently about goals. Believers are encouraged today to follow their dreams, believe in themselves, and shut out any negative voices in their lives. The common message of the day—“you can if you want to,” resonates with many individuals who are seeking more […]
Lessons from Ruth
Introduction I was thinking of the Old Testament narrative of Ruth this morning. Ruth is such a wonderful account of God’s grace and mercy to people who chose to follow Him! What strikes me about the story of Ruth is how the players in the narrative changed along the way. Ruth does not go how […]
Nuggets And Nuances–Luke 10:38-42
Introduction Recently I preached on the account of Mary and Martha from Luke 10:38-42. As I prepared for this text, I did what I always do whenever I can—I translated the text from Greek to English, noting the main verbs, participles, infinitives, and a few lesser significant parts of speech. My goal in this was […]
The Story of the Bible
Introduction Do you like stories? I love stories! I prefer mostly adventure novels or mysteries, but who does not like a good story? The Bible is a story. You may not have always thought of it as such, but it is a story. The plotline of the story stretches from the very first pages until the end. […]
Gospel Definitions
Introduction The term “Gospel” is one of those words you hear a lot around churches, especially our church! But what does it mean? Oftentimes we use these words—you could call them “church words”, and people who have spent time in churches know what they mean, but if you have not spent a lot of time […]
Fresh Coat Or Fresh Heart?
Introduction Recently our church parking lot received a new top seal coat. I am always amazed at how nice a new coat appears on the top of the parking lot! As I looked out the church window and saw the work that was done, I began to reflect on our spiritual lives. Sometimes we try […]
