July 27, 2008
Lessons Learned from Christ”s Church
Bruce E. Shields reflects on ordinary congregations, faithful mentors, grief, generosity, and mission, showing how Christ’s real and often messy church teaches wisdom no classroom can fully provide.
Church Life
Church Life explores the shared rhythms, relationships, and practices that shape a healthy congregation. Discover Bible-based articles on worship gatherings, fellowship, unity, hospitality, discipleship in community, and caring for one another through life’s joys and challenges. You’ll find guidance for building a welcoming church culture, strengthening membership and belonging, handling conflict with grace, and encouraging spiritual growth across the body. Whether you’re a church leader or a committed member, these resources help you cultivate congregational life that reflects the love of Christ and supports faithful discipleship.
May 4, 2008
The Church: A Place to Belong
Jud Wilhite calls churches to reject gated-community thinking and create cultures of belonging where messy people can encounter grace, compassion, and the life-changing message of Jesus.
March 5, 2008
Your Opinion About Our Unique Identity
CHRISTIAN STANDARD invites readers to complete a survey about connection and identity within the Restoration Movement. The article highlights encouraging growth and influence, while raising concerns about drifting from the movement’s unique plea.
February 3, 2008
How a Visit to a Country Church Changed Many Lives
By Ruth M. Groover My father said “yes” reluctantly, but I would have done the same thing under the circumstances. My parents, Ernest and Ila Miller, were born in rural Georgia. My father knew how to raise corn and cotton, and he planned to make a living as a farmer. My mother was quite happy with life on the farm. But things changed. Walter S. and Civilla D. Martin are remembered primarily for their work as Christian musicians. Harvard-educated, Dr. Martin”s strength was writing music. Mrs. Martin wrote the words. The beautiful hymn “God Will Take Care of You” is
September 12, 2007
Let”s Add Our Voices to the Conversation
Mark A. Taylor reflects on the emerging church conversation—welcoming change that draws believers closer to God while asking how churches can learn from emerging principles without abandoning existing congregations.
May 23, 2007
Of Pentecost and Mission Trips
Mark A. Taylor reflects on Pentecost Sunday as the church’s birthday and invites readers to share how they commemorate it. He also encourages thoughtful discussion about short term mission trips and their purpose.
April 25, 2007
Interview with Dan Gilliam
Dan Gilliam discusses his book God Touches and the spiritual journey behind it—describing church as authentic fellowship, exploring recovery and brokenness, and urging readers to seek fresh, honest expressions of community and faith.
April 22, 2007
Land of Opportunity
Newcomers are moving into rural communities, and churches can feel the strain when long-term residents and newcomers collide. This introduction explores agrarian and cosmopolitan contrasts and why understanding them can ease conflict.
January 28, 2007
Seven Heavens: Memories of Growing Up in Parsonages
A preacher’s kid looks back on seven parsonages in the 1950s—misfit houses, constant visitors, and unforgettable family mishaps—discovering that imperfect places can hold the happiest memories.
January 17, 2007
A Nagging Concern
Mark A. Taylor reflects on house churches, silent worship, and interactive services—and urges readers to look past comfort to deeper questions about what best forms worship, obedience, and a meaningful witness to postmodern adults.
January 7, 2007
Can We Know the Future of the Church?
A forecast of “unlimited” visibility sparks a reflection on whether the church’s future is predetermined. Jeff Walling argues Scripture calls believers to faithful choices today that shape tomorrow.
December 31, 2006
Obituaries from 2006
An alphabetical collection of obituary notices honoring ministers and Christian leaders. Each entry shares key details of a life of service, along with surviving family members and service or memorial information when available.
November 26, 2006
The Human Touch
A small group’s culture shifted when one leader chose to offer appropriate, caring touch. Lee Snyder explores why touch matters, how it communicates acceptance and sympathy, and why Christians should practice it wisely and respectfully.
October 15, 2006
‘Me’ Church or ‘The’ Church?
What would an honest sign outside your church say? A typo on a church marquee sparks a challenge to reject “Me” Church consumerism and pursue “The” Church—worshiping God, giving in fellowship, serving in ministry, and going to the lost.
July 16, 2006
Taking Small Groups to a Higher Level
By Greg Marksberry Most newer and larger churches believe small groups are a leading contributor to their growth. This strategy for building community has emerged as the most effective way to connect people within the body of Christ. But are we using small groups as well as we could to produce fully devoted Christ-followers? A recent Barna Research Group survey indicates small group participation has doubled over the last decade, with nearly a quarter of churchgoers attending weekly small group meetings. But while participation is up, discipleship is not. When asked to identify their most important goal in life, not
March 1, 2006
Our Influence Through the Local Church
George Barna says millions are pursuing faith outside local church life. Christian Standard contributing editors respond, affirming discipleship concerns while urging renewal of the local congregation rather than abandoning it.
January 29, 2006
The ‘IN’ Crowd: Ministering With Introverts in Mind
Church life often assumes extroverted norms. Mandy Smith explains what introverts are (and aren’t), how common church practices can overwhelm them, and practical ways leaders can create authentic space for introverts’ gifts and growth.
January 29, 2006
What Introverts Say
A collection of candid online quotes from introverts describing what drains them in church—forced greetings, loud services, pressure to socialize, and limited views of outreach—along with their longing for privacy and restoration.
December 25, 2005
Index to Christian Standard for 2005
Click here and you will download an eight-page pdf of the index.
November 30, 2005
Two Christians Pursue Paths to Unity: “Christians, Anyway . . .”
Why do churches struggle to transcend culture? Rees Bryant reflects on “Christians only,” cultural baggage, and the humility of admitting God loves his imperfect people—Christians anyway.
