June 17, 2007
Meeting Jesus in Baggage Claim
Paul’s honesty about his past reminds us that every believer carries baggage. This devotional calls the church to be the safest place to admit it—and to hand it to Christ in grace-filled confession.
Articles for tag: Grace
Gifts from the Heart
By Ruth Herron and Anita Smelser The young mother hesitated as she and her toddler stepped quietly into the foyer. She sat down quickly on the closest pew, shushing him and pulling him near her. She smiled tentatively as a worker greeted her and asked a few questions for record keeping. “Yes, it”s just me and my son. . . . Yes, we have transportation. . . . I got a job and someone to watch my little boy. . . . I start tomorrow.” The young mother answered each of our questions, but we knew from experience the most
May 20, 2007
Modern Day Pauls
A short-term mission team visits believers in Indonesia and shares stories of courage, prayer, and perseverance in persecuted churches—then reflects on what Christians in the U.S. call “suffering.”
Idolatry and Greed: Exposing the Health and Wealth Gospel
Robert Lowery explains why the prosperity gospel distorts Scripture, burdens the suffering, and reshapes Christ in the image of materialism—calling the church to renounce it.
April 8, 2007
What”s the Debate About?
Is belief alone enough—and is a memorized sinner’s prayer the biblical pattern? Mark Atteberry points to five responses repeatedly seen in Scripture when people accepted Christ, including repentance, confession, baptism, and perseverance.
April 8, 2007
Our Motives for Pure Living
In the wake of Ted Haggard’s fall, Greg Allen urges a humble, restorative response—while warning leaders to guard the mind, pursue accountability, and protect marriages so Christ is honored in life and leadership.
March 25, 2007
Biblical Stewardship in the Local Church
Church stewardship shouldn’t feel like a game of chance. Tom Jones outlines 10 practical principles—vision, leader modeling, clear communication, and creative fundraising—to help congregations build a healthy financial base for mission.
March 4, 2007
Seeing Your Team Through the Eyes of WE!
A practical reframing of “TEAM” for ministry and life: thick skin, humility, accountability, and managing yourself. Learn why a “we” mindset strengthens relationships, builds resilient teams, and reflects Christ’s love in community.
February 25, 2007
Should We Care About Calvinism?
As Calvinism gains renewed attention, three Christian church leaders discuss free will and God’s sovereignty, the influence of Calvinist writers, and concerns about methodology, sacraments, and evangelical identity.
February 25, 2007
Lucky to Be Alive?
By Doyle Roth Remember as a child how we looked forward to the summer break from school? Then there was the anticipation of waiting for the family vacation. Whether it was a trip to the beach, the mountains, or Disneyland, the excitement would build as the date approached. As adults we still mesmerize ourselves with expectations of grand and glorious places and events. Dreams and hope for the future are a part of many facets of our lives. There is anticipation when we leave home to go to college. There is excitement as the graduation date finally approaches. We can”t
February 21, 2007
A Series About Calvinism
An editor explains why this issue devotes significant space to Calvinism, noting its renewed influence and potential to divide. The series aims to help readers pursue biblical doctrine and God’s glory with clarity, humility, and charity.
February 18, 2007
The NACC: It’s Time
Alan Ahlgrim reflects on God’s “kairos” timing and urges churches to see the 2007 North American Christian Convention as a catalytic moment for renewal, leadership development, and bold church planting.
January 7, 2007
Can We Know the Future of the Church?
A forecast of “unlimited” visibility sparks a reflection on whether the church’s future is predetermined. Jeff Walling argues Scripture calls believers to faithful choices today that shape tomorrow.
December 24, 2006
‘Tis the Season
Christmas awakens a restless longing in many—through perfectionism, loneliness, grief, or escape. Like the Magi, people seek what they can’t fully name. This reflection calls believers to notice that longing and reach out.
December 17, 2006
What a Christ-Centered Recovery Ministry Can Do
Can a Christ-centered recovery ministry do what a “secular” program cannot? One Christian in long-term recovery reflects on Christ’s transforming work through 12-step fellowships and challenges church assumptions about where grace shows up.
December 17, 2006
The Discipline of Staying
Should a leader stay or go? Greg Marksberry urges servant-leaders to embrace the discipline of staying—expecting downturns, embracing growth’s cost, and enjoying the long-term yield of stable, faithful ministry.
November 26, 2006
The Human Touch
A small group’s culture shifted when one leader chose to offer appropriate, caring touch. Lee Snyder explores why touch matters, how it communicates acceptance and sympathy, and why Christians should practice it wisely and respectfully.
November 19, 2006
Five Books About Open Theism
A guided list of essential books on open theology—from the academic volume that launched the discussion to accessible introductions, critiques, and debates comparing the classic view of God and the open model.
November 12, 2006
CONFESSION CONSIDERED: Coming Clean
Confessing sin isn’t easy, but it can bring tremendous relief and real change. Explore unexpected benefits of accountability, practical steps toward growth, and how to find “safe” listeners who pray and encourage obedience.
October 22, 2006
Leadership Lessons from a Long Swim
Stephen Bond reflects on training for and completing a 2.7-mile open-water swim across Donner Lake—and the leadership lessons it reinforced about big goals, preparation, opposition, mindset, and realizing untapped potential.
