Features

Loving and Listening to Doubters

Over the past decade of setting tables where skeptics and churchgoers sit side by side, I’ve gathered a few hard-earned insights about the art of loving those who see the world differently.

5 Innovative Ministries Shaping the Future Church

The following ministry snapshots are just a few of the examples of innovative ministries that are working well. Whether you’re a pastor, church leader or an everyday disciple looking to reach your neighborhood, we hope their stories will inspire you to innovate in your own ways.

What I Learned in the Painful Parts of Church Planting

God has worked in me more than he has through me. His love works within us like an explorer—or, in a way, a church planter—always seeking the places that have not yet met his healing love.

What Not to Say When Talking About Prayer

God loves variety–in creation, in people, in churches, in his methodologies, in everything. He will not be confined to something we found works best for us.

What Do You Live For, Really?

What are you passionate about? That is what you will live for. Some people are enduring life instead of enjoying it. Their favorite day of the week is someday: “Someday it will get better.”

When Is the Right Time to Plant a Church?

The answer might surprise you.

How to Make Sure You’re Preaching to Everyone

7 tips for preaching to young, old and not-yet Christians

Nothing Is More Often Misdiagnosed Than Our Homesickness for Heaven

It’s not the wanting that corrupts us. What corrupts us is the wanting that’s misplaced, set on the wrong thing.

12 Things Evangelistic Pastors Do

Characteristics of Church Leaders Who Are Sharing Their Faith

Lead With a Contagious, Refreshing Spirit

If someone feels like you like him or her, they’re more likely to respond positively to your leadership. If they don’t, and enough people feel the same way, your leadership will suffer.

Misinterpreting Essential Scriptures

What is interesting about the most viral verses being tweeted, hashtagged, shared, favorited, bookmarked or highlighted – whether through Bible Gateway, YouVersion, or any other source – is that the reason they went viral had little to do with the actual meaning of the verse itself.