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.

Stephen Witmer: A Vision for Small-Town Ministry—Part 2

We should want bigger and faster more and need it less.

Now That You’ve Reopened … Should You Actually Close Your Building Again?

Every time you think 2020 is going to get easier, it just gets more complex. So here’s a question: Should you close your church after...

The Key to Making Faster, Better Decisions

As a leader, I am forced to make dozens of decisions every day. During this pandemic that has only multiplied. Thankfully, years ago I learned...

Repentance of Systemic Racism Includes Restoration

This article originally appeared on MissioAlliance.org and is reposted here by permission. “But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, ‘Look, Lord! Here and now I...

How to Refocus Your Fundraising in a Bad Economy

Way back in 2008 I wrote a post on how churches, ministries and nonprofits can survive an economic downturn. If you didn’t read it,...

What Is the Believer’s Living Hope?

In his first letter, the apostle Peter says that, in the resurrection, we have a “living hope.” Hope is in short supply these days,...

Can You Hear Me Now?

“Can you hear me now?” It wasn’t that long ago a guy in a yellow shirt would interrupt our television entertainment to ask that annoying...

4 Steps to Set an Example of Generosity for Kids

Parents want to raise generous kids. We desire our children to be giving individuals who care about and share with others. After all, none...