June 7, 2006
The Apostle’s Ministry and Mine
A weekly task list can breed weariness and self-pity. Mark A. Taylor looks to Paul’s hardships in 2 Corinthians to reset perspective and remember that comfort won’t satisfy like serving others does.
Series: Columns
A Wonderful Way to Demonstrate Unity
At the North American Christian Convention in Louisville, unity won’t just be discussed—it will be demonstrated. This year’s offerings will include a tithe to support missionaries in Kenya and help launch an AIDS testing and treatment center in Christ’s name.
Come Visit Our Blogs
The Christian Standard introduces two new weekly blogs and highlights a third at PreachingStandard.com—fresh voices, thoughtful perspective, and an open invitation for readers to join the conversation.
May 17, 2006
Free to Share Our Freedom
Many believers carry lingering guilt and uncertainty about eternity. This article explains Paul’s “justification” as God’s answer—Christ has paid the penalty—freeing Christians to live in peace and extend grace to others.
May 10, 2006
What We Can Do if We Can”t Agree
Churches often disagree about women in ministry, from eldership and ordination to worship leadership and Communion. This article urges humble respect so believers who differ can still serve together in fellowship.
Everybody”s Challenge
Mark A. Taylor reflects on serving a fellowship of churches ranging from rural “mini churches” to megachurches, and why stewardship questions—especially how we spend and give—matter for every congregation.
Publishing and Partnering
Standard Publishing previews two new local-church-driven resources tied to this summer’s North American Christian Convention, including a new book by Rick Rusaw and Eric Swanson and the H2O video project featuring Kyle Idleman.
April 19, 2006
Serving You Behind the Scenes
CHRISTIAN STANDARD shares a staff update: news editor Ruth Davis retires after years of service, Jennifer Holder joins the team, and managing editor Jim Nieman continues overseeing the magazine’s weekly work.
April 12, 2006
It’s About Easter
An atheist sells “the chance to save his soul” and attends church to critique it publicly. Mark A. Taylor argues Christianity can’t be judged into belief—Easter points to Jesus himself as the center of faith.
Calling All Leaders, Announcing All Megachurches
By Mark A. Taylor When we say CHRISTIAN STANDARD is a magazine for leaders in the local church, immediately we create a problem. Just who is a leader? At no time is that question more clearly answered than when we consider the Leaders in Christian Service program cosponsored by Milligan College and Standard Publishing. Leaders in Christian Service recognizes men and women who have discovered the beauty in the paradox presented by Christ: “Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26, New Living Translation ). Those who have received this reward in the past
March 29, 2006
140 Years and Tomorrow
As CHRISTIAN STANDARD marks its 140th anniversary, Mark A. Taylor reflects on the need for more than annual reunions to keep a far-flung Christian family connected—and why the mission remains unchanged.
March 22, 2006
Have We Said Enough?
Mark A. Taylor reflects on why churches must repeat announcements for real buy-in, then highlights Preaching Standard, Christian Standard’s website and e-newsletter, and upcoming Standard Publishing-sponsored events.
March 15, 2006
The Stories and the Strength
Mark A. Taylor reviews Brian Jones’s Second Guessing God, a story-filled book that faces doubt honestly, avoids pat answers, and points readers to God’s Word with hope, humor, and tears.
March 8, 2006
The Truth About Elders and Ministers
Disconnected comments can reveal a lot about how elders and ministers relate. Mark A. Taylor contrasts unhealthy patterns with a better path marked by mutual respect, shared accountability, and stronger leadership.
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.
February 22, 2006
Healthy Churches Come in All Sizes!
Energizing Smaller Churches Network (ESCN) is launching four “Healthy Churches Come in All Sizes” conferences on Christian college campuses, encouraging leaders of smaller congregations through worship, workshops, and practical ministry support.
February 15, 2006
What”s So Important?
A youth-group story about taking work too seriously leads to a challenge for church leaders. Barna survey results highlight a gap between what pastors believe about members’ priorities and what members report.
February 8, 2006
More Than One Month
A reflection on Black History Month, Denzil Holness’s call for Christian witness, and the need to face systemic racism through self-examination, confession, and reconciliation in the body of Christ.
February 1, 2006
A Place in the History Books
A reflection on the North American Christian Convention’s call for unity, the long history behind division over worship practices, and the growing signs of cooperation between Christian churches and churches of Christ.
January 25, 2006
Joyful Givers
Jesus said it is more blessed to give than to receive—and research suggests generous people report greater happiness. A Zimbabwe church’s jubilant offering challenges us to recover cheerful, impact-focused giving.
