June 4, 2006
Magic Pill
Using a “Magic Pill” metaphor, Arron Chambers explains why some churches prefer to stay small—avoiding change, cost, and shared leadership—and urges congregations to pursue healthy growth under Christ.
Series: Featured
May 28, 2006
How Could We Forget?
A student reflects on why believers pray so little for the nations. Using Scripture, a survey, and personal stories from Sudan and North Africa, he points to lack of knowledge, faith, and love as common barriers.
May 28, 2006
Beth’s Story
While caring for her elderly mother, Iona Matson prays for guidance and receives an answer in a devoted caregiver. Then a surprising wartime connection reveals a circle of comfort, hope, and baptism years later.
May 28, 2006
Missions at the Crossroads
Indianapolis has helped shape missions in the Restoration Movement—from the College of Missions (1910) to modern mission agencies and church-led efforts. Academy, agency, and assembly continue to advance the missionary task.
May 28, 2006
Called to Business
Business As Mission (BAM) is a holistic approach that combines gospel witness with job creation and community development. Learn what BAM is, what it isn’t, and how business leaders can serve both overseas and at home.
May 28, 2006
Reaching Immigrants
Revelation pictures heaven as a multitude from every nation and language. Ken Gosnell offers practical “ACROSS” steps for churches to reach immigrants with acceptance, strategy, and culturally sensitive evangelism.
Perplexed
By Vince Antonucci “Hi, I heard your radio ad and I was wondering if I can come to your church? You see, I”m gay, but you seem like a church that might welcome everyone. Thanks, Annette.” We promoted our church”s opening day with radio ads on secular rock stations. I received that question from Annette, and my in-box quickly filled with e-mails asking the same question. I am perplexed. I want to e-mail my own question to churches: Why do gay people need to ask this question? God Incarnate Recently, I received another e-mail. It was from the CHRISTIAN STANDARD:
May 21, 2006
Questions and Answers About Homosexuality
What does Scripture teach about homosexuality, same-sex attraction, and identity? Vince Antonucci addresses common questions, cites key Bible passages, and urges Christians to speak truth in love with compassion toward friends and family.
May 21, 2006
A Safe Place to Be a Sinner
A reflection on how churches can become safer places for people struggling with sexual sin—by dropping categories, speaking honestly, and walking patiently with strugglers toward healing in the body of Christ.
May 21, 2006
Broken Mirrors
Using the image of a cracked mirror, this article explores how early wounds and sinful reactions can shape sexual and relational brokenness—and how God can bring healing that turns weakness into strength.
May 21, 2006
The Mark
Dave Smith reflects on how Christians can be known by the mark of love—formed through surrender, trust, and knowing God, then demonstrated in generosity, unity, and pursuing outsiders with the heart of Jesus.
3 WOMEN IN MINISTRY: ‘I Couldn’t Be More Thrilled’
Linda Ahlgrim reflects on stepping into an “interim” children’s ministry director role, serving on the same church staff as her husband, and persevering through the constant pressure of recruiting volunteers—while finding deep joy in shaping young lives.
3 WOMEN IN MINISTRY: ‘There’s Nothing I’d Rather Do!’
Debbie Jones reflects on her calling to ministry, the expectations women often face, and the ways churches can encourage women to develop and use their gifts to build up Christ’s church.
May 14, 2006
3 WOMEN IN MINISTRY: ‘I’m Glad I’m a Megachurch Pastor’s Wife’
Susan Wilson shares how God called her to ministry too—and how that calling has shaped her life as a megachurch pastor’s wife through rapid growth, new challenges, and the joy of seeing lives changed.
May 14, 2006
The Ministry of the Minister’s Assistant
Four administrative assistants to senior pastors share what they’ve learned about access, communication, staff structure, and trust. Their candid insights offer practical principles any church can apply as it grows.
Annual Christian College Reports
Download The Christian Standard’s two most recent Christian colleges charts (2006 and 2005). Note: a correction updates the April 23, 2006 chart to include complete accreditation details for Lincoln (Illinois) Christian College and Seminary.
It’s Faith Raising, Not Just Fund Raising
Capital campaigns can strain a congregation—or strengthen it. Alan Ahlgrim shares hard-won lessons on vision, broad involvement, wise counsel, sustained follow-through, and confident faith that God is at work.
First Things First
A call for “compromise on compromise”: before churches fund new construction or renovation, the author proposes giving the first 51 percent of capital dollars to missions or benevolence—linking spending to belief while seeking unity.
May 7, 2006
Coming Back to the Heart of Worship
Worship renewal isn’t mainly about better music. Jack Reese traces early Christian worship from Scripture to prayer, peace, and the table—arguing revival begins with hearts quiet enough to hear God’s Word.
April 30, 2006
List of Campus Ministries (2007)
Download the 2007 Campus Ministries List PDF featuring more than 100 campus ministries in the United Stands, along with a handful of international campus ministries.
