September 27, 2023
Shawn McMullen has been named the 13th editor of Christian Standard, succeeding Michael C. Mack, who died unexpectedly Aug. 24. McMullen has served previously as editor of The Lookout. “When I think about Christian Standard’s 157-year history, its impact on our churches, and its legacy of godly editors, I view this as a sacred trust,” McMullen said . . .
March 31, 2020
Shawn McMullen, who has concluded his service as editor of The Lookout magazine, will begin work Wednesday as vice president of partner relations with the Christian Church Leadership Foundation. McMullen’s responsibilities will include working with Cincinnati area ministers, churches, and mission teams to present the work of the CCL Network and the Russell School of Ministry. He will identify partners to support student scholarships, library services, and network memberships. He also will closely work with representatives from the Cincinnati Christian University Alumni Association to help maintain communication and connection with the CCU community within the CCL Foundation. “I’m grateful for
March 15, 2009
LeRoy Lawson reviews five Christian books on the Lord’s Supper, the Lord’s Prayer, preaching, hermeneutics, and the ministry needs of smaller churches.
December 3, 2008
Mark A. Taylor highlights how the Energizing Smaller Churches Network encourages leaders in smaller congregations and shares the spring and summer 2009 ESCN conference schedule.
October 8, 2008
Mark A. Taylor considers whether church health should be measured by attendance alone, weighing numerical growth against relational healing, discipleship, and congregational stability.
September 24, 2008
Mike Kilgallin reflects on his calling to lead Crossroads College, the value of Bible college education, and how Christian schools can serve churches and the Restoration Movement.
April 30, 2008
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.
March 9, 2008
Personal preferences can quietly become roadblocks to evangelism and growth. David Bycroft calls the church to Paul’s others-first attitude and offers practical ways congregations can cultivate selflessness for the sake of reaching the lost.
February 3, 2008
A steel-mill worker and other faithful volunteers quietly discipled teenagers in a small Pennsylvania church—and the ripple effects reached Bible colleges, missions, and decades of service. A reminder that unseen youth ministry can shape generations.
October 10, 2007
Barney Wells challenges smaller-church leaders to reject “common” ministry and pursue uncommon impact. Drawing on Satchel Paige and Philip in Acts 8, this piece urges innovation rooted in reaching people and following God’s direction.
Standard Publishing reflects on lessons from the Energizing Smaller Churches Network and invites leaders to join upcoming ESCN conferences this fall for connection, learning, and practical encouragement.
April 22, 2007
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.
April 22, 2007
Why do newcomers and long-term rural residents clash in local churches? This article explores agrarian and cosmopolitan differences—from success and planning to meetings and relationships—and offers practical ways leaders can ease friction and encourage healthier church life.
April 18, 2007
Tom Ellsworth urges patient, listening-first leadership when guiding change in smaller churches. Mark A. Taylor introduces a book excerpt on helping town and country congregations respond faithfully to demographic shifts and unchosen change.
December 20, 2006
Standard Publishing is underwriting and expanding the Energizing Smaller Churches Network (ESCN). Discover the roster of 10 conferences scheduled for 2007—offering vision, testimony, practical ideas, and encouragement for smaller church leaders and volunteers.
February 22, 2006
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.
Sponsored
Sponsored
Sponsored
Learn how to turn the sermons you’re already preaching into searchable, shareable content that helps people discover and connect with your local church. Access Be Seen, Be Heard on demand with Wes Woodell and Trey Sheneman. A two hour course for preachers, church media and website teams, and anyone who wants to help their church reach more people online.
September 17, 2026
Quentin Davis
September 15, 2026
David Faust
September 15, 2026
James Thompson