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.

Overcoming Evangelism Frustration—A 30-Day Accountability Process

"Regardless of what we did, it seemed we could not sustain evangelism desires throughout our church body."

6 Signs You Spend Too Much Time on Social Media

"I fear we irreparably harm our peace and joy when every moment becomes share-worthy."

9 Changes Dying Churches Must Make Immediately

"Around 200 churches will close this week, maybe more. The pace will accelerate unless we make some dramatic changes."

3 Keys to Getting Through Dry Seasons

"The toughest season, and one that so many Christians seem to fight through, is the dry season—the desert months."

When Should the Church Make Political Statements?

"The church has been given a specific mission, and getting mired in the secondary questions of politics can divert our mission."

Church Planting Shifts, Part 3: Preparing Our People for Witness

"If we are to succeed in this new, more secular space, we need to do more than simply acknowledge this shift."

5 Reasons Immaturity Is Prevalent in the Church

"Elephants in the room refer to obviously inappropriate or immature behaviors that remain unacknowledged and unaddressed."

7 Hallmarks of ‘Turnaround Pastors’

"If the possibility of taking most of the guesswork out of a pastor search intrigues you, read on."