January 25, 2006
Joyful Givers
Jesus said it is more blessed to give than to receive—and research suggests generous people report greater happiness. A Zimbabwe church’s jubilant offering challenges us to recover cheerful, impact-focused giving.
Articles for tag: Mark A. Taylor
January 11, 2006
Knowing His Heart
Prayer need not remain a ritual or a ceremony, but the crucial step to creating a relationship with the One who made us and loves us—learning to listen and enjoy God’s presence.
January 4, 2006
These People Are Making a Difference
Standard Publishing announces Ben Cachiaras as the newest member of its Publishing Committee, notes Richard Hogan’s retirement after 21 years, and introduces a new “Christian Standard Interview” feature highlighting key people in the movement.
December 28, 2005
Thought-Provoking Columns Ahead!
Christian Standard introduces the 2006 “Reflections” writers—leaders from churches, seminaries, and ministries across the continent. Meet the 12 contributors and look ahead to a year of thoughtful, timely columns.
Their Joy Can Be Ours
Daily devotions that move from duty to delight To read the 23 testimonies shared in this week’s issue is at once to be humbled and encouraged. The examples show everyday believers pursuing prayer and Scripture in practical, disciplined ways. The point is not a regimen driven by guilt, but a relationship that shapes daily life. Everyday people develop creative, disciplined habits for prayer and Bible intake. Guilt-driven devotion tends to fade, but relationship-driven devotion grows. Mary’s lifelong familiarity with God’s Word shaped her faith and praise. By Mark A. Taylor To read the 23 testimonies shared in this week’s issue
December 7, 2005
Helping Preachers Set a Higher Standard
Standard Publishing introduces Preaching Standard, an online subscription service offering complete sermons, fresh illustrations, news bits, statistics, and book reviews—updated weekly and searchable, with an introductory price and a free 30 day trial.
November 30, 2005
STOLEN SERMONS: Readers Offer Insights
In the October 2 issue, Editor Mark A. Taylor asked readers to share their thoughts about original sermons, Sunday-evening worship, and any other topic you wished to expound upon. We have received more than a dozen letters/e-mails related to original sermons and Sunday night sermons, and we are sharing them with you here. (To send us your comments, just click here.) Before we get going, here are some links that might be helpful: “The Problems With Original Preaching” by Mark A. Taylor “Integrity in the Pulpit” by Dean M. Christensen “How to Preach Like an Amateur” by Eddie Lowen Letters
November 30, 2005
Surprised but Not Discouraged
Standex International has decided to offer Standard Publishing for sale alongside other Consumer Products Group companies. Leaders say the move is strategic, not performance-related, as employees remain committed to “bringing the Word to life.”
November 23, 2005
God Talk at Starbucks
Rick Warren’s words will appear on Starbucks coffee cups next year as part of “The Way I See It.” Is it compromise or influence? The article argues it may help brew discussion about God in public spaces.
November 6, 2005
Surprised but Not Discouraged
Standard Publishing employees learned Standex planned to offer the company for sale. Leaders said the move reflects Standex strategy—not Standard’s performance—and staff reaffirmed trust in God and commitment to “bringing the Word to life.”
November 2, 2005
Receding Differences
A breakdown near Natchez becomes a testimony of hospitality and partnership as Christians from different traditions serve Hurricane Katrina and Rita victims together—one team, one mission, one body in Christ.
October 19, 2005
Poorest of All
Using David Hilfiker’s observations about urban poverty, this editorial challenges Christians to confront a different poverty—life without unity. It urges believers to begin with relationship, prayer, and shared fellowship across divisions.
October 12, 2005
An Interview With the Director
NACC executive director Allan Dunbar reflects on this year’s regional conferences—highlighting intimacy, renewal, and a standout minister and spouse retreat—while urging broad participation in the historic 2006 Louisville convention.
How We Look at a Minister’s Departure
A reflection on why ministerial transitions can feel like calling to ministers but loss to church members—and how taking the long view helps congregations and pastors navigate resignations with healthier perspective.
September 28, 2005
The Problems With Original Preaching
A letter argues that sermon originality can be overrated when ministers carry heavy weekly demands. It urges ethical transparency, shared resources, and reconsidering Sunday evening services to support faithful preaching and healthier expectations.
September 21, 2005
A Month for Ministers
Clergy Appreciation Month (CAM) offers a timely reminder to encourage your church’s ministers. Try simple, personal steps—activate leaders, write specific notes, thank the spouse, give thoughtful gifts, or support a favorite cause.
September 14, 2005
Their Leadership”“and Mine
Mark A. Taylor reflects on Henri Nouwen’s In the Name of Jesus, confronting divisiveness, performance pressure, and power in ministry—and realizing the book’s sharpest challenge is personal.
September 7, 2005
Four Years Later
A late visit to Ground Zero makes the facts of 9/11 feel newly heavy—and raises a question: what would it look like if the aftermath became a lasting catalyst for worship, mission, and what endures?
Tell Us Your Plan!
Many Christians know they “ought” to read the Bible and pray daily, but still wonder how. This column invites readers to share simple devotional routines and practical helps. Email a paragraph with “devotions” in the subject line by October 3.
August 24, 2005
I Can See You, September
As August fades, Mark A. Taylor reflects on the melancholy of summer’s end, the rush of the school-year rhythm, and the gentle way autumn reminds us of God’s power and love.
