Books

Back to School: Why Theological Education Matters to the Church

Evangelism is the church’s speech to the outside world, but worship is where it learns its grammar.

Learn to Linger in Grief

Imagine a church where grief isn’t ignored, but it also isn’t hopeless. Where lament isn’t a sign of weak faith, but an act of worship.

Brandon O’Brien’s Top Books on Small Church Ministry

Rather than being a subcategory of American ministry, the small church is the norm. If you take a longer and broader view, most churches throughout history and in most parts of the world are and always have been small.

Persevere With Prophetic Patience

This is the kind of situation James is addressing when he calls God’s people to patience. He highlights dynamics of social power structures that might not change in his lifetime.

On the Journey

My Christian discipleship had been characterized by a color-blind approach rather than a color-courageous one. So I would be taking this journey without a map.

Just a Screen Away

During the pandemic, Lyberg visited local members in the hospital using FaceTime, and he can do the same thing with members who live in other places.

The Gift of Closed Doors

That closed door saved his life.

4 Ways to Keep Leading When You Are Discouraged

Leaders today are facing discouragement and are asked if they will continue in their ministry assignment or leave ministry altogether.

Intentionality Is Key

We’re very intentional about being welcoming and friendly. I tell people on Sunday mornings at the end of the services, “If you’re our guest, I’d like to meet you.” And so I go to the hospitality room and meet people every week.

Falling Forward

Resistance and pushback are needed to shape a better outcome, but too much can be destructive.

6 Steps to Powerful Preaching

Likewise, effective preachers don’t just ask, “How can I explain this?” They also ask, “How can I picture it?”  What story, metaphor, or image will build a picture in listeners’ minds?