After succeeding Bob Russell at Southeast Christian Church, Dave Stone shares lessons from a senior pastor transition—humility, criticism, family priorities, and learning to depend on Christ under daily leadership pressure.
June 17, 2007
Moving a piano becomes a vivid picture of why believers need community. Chris Travis explains how God’s grace often reaches others through our gifts—and why a small group may need you more than you realize.
June 17, 2007
Jeff Walling reflects on Paul’s honest confession in 1 Corinthians 15:9, inviting Christians to claim their spiritual baggage and hand it to Christ.
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
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.”
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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