Can We Do It His Way?
Mark A. Taylor reflects on Christian unity, Thomas Campbell’s Declaration and Address, and a Great Communion opportunity calling believers toward the bold possibility of “one church.”
Series: Columns
From Guilt to Joy
Mark A. Taylor reflects on guilt, comparison, time, and money, showing how Christians can serve others generously while using everything they have for God’s glory.
May 14, 2008
Some Prayer Requests Can Hurt
Mark A. Taylor warns that prayer requests can become gossip when curiosity, self-righteousness, or public criticism replace humility, privacy, and genuine concern.
May 7, 2008
Beyond the Steeples
Mark A. Taylor reflects on churches without steeples, showing how ordinary acts of service, evangelism, and faithful neighborhood witness reveal the church at work beyond its walls.
May 4, 2008
FROM MY BOOKSHELF: Looking for God
Leroy Lawson reviews spiritual writing and Reggie McNeal’s church leadership books, reflecting on humility, mission, global Christianity, and the church’s need to move beyond the status quo.
April 30, 2008
External Focus, Careful Balance
Mark A. Taylor reflects on the challenge of balancing evangelism and social action, urging externally focused churches to bring together good deeds and good news.
Available Only from Us
By Mark A. Taylor This information isn”t available anywhere else. That was the comment one reader made about the expanded Christian college issue CHRISTIAN STANDARD published March 16. The same is true for this week”s issue. Hidden on the computer hard drives of several campus ministers, the directory we publish annually tells our thousands of readers about these ministries. Keep this issue or send it to college-age students you know. Or find the directory at our Web site and bookmark it for future reference. Hundreds of Christian students on secular campuses across the country are making life-changing commitments to God
April 16, 2008
Struggles in High Places
Mark Zuckerberg’s leadership struggles at Facebook echo challenges many church and parachurch leaders face: rapid growth, pressure to sustain the work, and the temptation to lead on one’s own terms.
April 13, 2008
Mega Myth Busters: A review of “Beyond Megachurch Myths”
Dick Alexander reviews Beyond Megachurch Myths, highlighting research that challenges common assumptions about megachurches and points church leaders of every size toward healthier, more effective ministry practices.
April 13, 2008
FROM MY BOOKSHELF: Little Things Mean a Lot
Mark Penn says big cultural shifts often begin as small “microtrends.” LeRoy Lawson shares surprising examples and reflects on how small groups can grow into forces powerful enough to shape society.
April 9, 2008
About Megachurches, for Every Church
This annual megachurch issue celebrates growth and baptisms while noting recent declines, offering smaller churches practical insights and pointing readers to the 2007 Megachurch Report: Deluxe Edition.
April 2, 2008
Presidents, Preachers, Passion, and Public Speaking
A young voter’s desire for “relatable” language raises a deeper challenge for the church. Compelling speech matters, but lasting influence requires substance—especially for preachers seeking to reach a generation that’s often absent from church.
March 26, 2008
Who Cares Who’s Watching?
How much of today’s “good behavior” is driven by character—and how much by the fear of being seen? A reflection on YouTube-era visibility, public reputation, and what it means to do good when no one’s watching.
March 19, 2008
A Program to Recognize the Leaders You Know
Christian Standard invites readers to nominate outstanding servants whose Christian character and leadership are making a difference. Learn the simple criteria, where to find forms, and the April 1 nomination deadline.
March 16, 2008
FROM MY BOOKSHELF: Taking Film Seriously
LeRoy Lawson reflects on preaching in a visual age and recommends five books by Christian film critics to help believers engage movies thoughtfully and discuss their theological and cultural themes with discernment.
Why Attend a Christian College?
Mark A. Taylor contrasts two freshman orientation messages—one from a Christian college and one from a state university—and points readers to a special issue showing how Christian colleges pursue spiritual growth alongside intellectual development.
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 27, 2008
We Can Agree on Some Things About Elders
A reflection on elders who quietly shepherd, encourage their preacher, and serve without pretense. Even amid differing conclusions, the church still needs humble leaders who protect and support the local flock.
February 20, 2008
The Possibilities and the Purposes of Staying Connected
Mark A. Taylor reflects on global inequality, the Restoration plea, and the need for connection across independent congregations—then points to the World Convention as a rare chance to learn, unite, and engage the world’s needs.
February 17, 2008
FROM MY BOOKSHELF: Connecting Our World, Reaching Our World
Thomas Friedman’s “flat world” economics and Alan Greenspan’s reflections prompt fresh questions for Christian missions. In a globally connected era, gospel work may increasingly pair preaching with practical help and business-minded service.
