July 2, 2006
After decades of “worship wars,” Becky Ahlberg urges churches to stop wounding their own leaders through “friendly fire.” Before making staff changes, invest in development, check motives, and plan transitions that build up rather than tear down.
A closer look at the people and correspondence behind the 1906 Census of Religious Bodies—and how its published data became a lasting symbol of the Churches of Christ and Disciples of Christ division.
Tom Langford revisits Thomas Campbell’s Declaration and Address to show how insisting on human inferences as fellowship tests fueled division. He offers a hopeful Lubbock example of unity pursued without sacrificing convictions.
James B. North argues the 1906 division grew from deeper tensions than organs or missionary societies. He points to relationships, trust, and liberty in opinion as keys that might have prevented separation.
Busyness in ministry can quietly drain a leader’s spirit. Rick Grover points to Jesus’ pattern of solitude and prayer and offers practical applications for rest, accountability, and returning to ministry with a healthier rhythm.
How do we seek God in everyday life? Steven F. Sturm explores contemplative awareness, richer prayer (including the Psalms), Scripture meditation, and the role of spiritual community in pursuing fellowship with God.
June 18, 2006
Tony Twist recommends five trusted classics on prayer and spiritual formation—guides to inner renewal, friendship with Jesus, and a deeper peace shaped by Christ.
A workout walk on a lonely canyon road becomes an unexpected spiritual discipline—learning to notice God, release burdens, love others well, and cling to him in ordinary, gritty moments.
June 18, 2006
Jeff Krajewski urges the church to move from a reactive, defensive posture to confident witness under Christ’s lordship—reframing the battleground and demonstrating the greatest commandment through bold, truthful love.
June 11, 2006
By Steven F. Sturm Throughout Scripture believers are encouraged to seek God. Jesus called people to “seek first his (God”s) kingdom and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). James wrote “come near to God and he will come near to you” (James 4:8). Isaiah told his readers to “seek the Lord while he may be found” (Isaiah 55:6). David said “I seek you with all my heart” (Psalm 119:10). He charged his son Solomon with the words, “If you seek him, he will be found by you” (1 Chronicles 28:9). What does it mean to seek for God? In the divine
June 11, 2006
By Larry Chouinard Does life ever feel like a series of disconnected scenes with no discernible plot, a mere random collection of episodes fragmented by one crisis after another? Is it only the tyranny of the particulars that scripts our lives? We seem driven by a series of episodes, like a weekly TV sitcom whose events are only loosely connected. Success in life seems determined by how well we are able to juggle the particulars and achieve some kind of rhythmic balance. But for some of us, as the particulars multiply (e.g., family, job, children, health issues, financial security), maintaining
June 11, 2006
After decades in the same congregation, Nancy Karpenske weighs the risks of getting too comfortable against the rewards of credibility, perseverance, and long-term spiritual fruit—learning again and again to depend on God, not experience.
June 4, 2006
A Seattle street preacher overturns one man’s assumptions about public faith. Reflecting on prophets and Jesus’ public proclamation, the author urges Christians to defend the freedom to speak with both passion and compassion.
June 4, 2006
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.
June 4, 2006
After decades in ministry, Rick Lowry asks whether church “success” can be measured by numbers—or by revival. He reflects on awakenings he’s witnessed and challenges leaders to pray for renewal that begins with themselves.
June 4, 2006
When churches use raffles, prizes, or entertainment to boost attendance, what are they teaching people to expect? This article contrasts gimmicks with prayer, fasting, and missional love as the truer path to lasting growth.
May 28, 2006
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
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.
May 28, 2006
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
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.
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