April 12, 2006
It’s About Easter
An atheist sells “the chance to save his soul” and attends church to critique it publicly. Mark A. Taylor argues Christianity can’t be judged into belief—Easter points to Jesus himself as the center of faith.
Articles for tag: Mark A. Taylor
Calling All Leaders, Announcing All Megachurches
By Mark A. Taylor When we say CHRISTIAN STANDARD is a magazine for leaders in the local church, immediately we create a problem. Just who is a leader? At no time is that question more clearly answered than when we consider the Leaders in Christian Service program cosponsored by Milligan College and Standard Publishing. Leaders in Christian Service recognizes men and women who have discovered the beauty in the paradox presented by Christ: “Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26, New Living Translation ). Those who have received this reward in the past
March 29, 2006
140 Years and Tomorrow
As CHRISTIAN STANDARD marks its 140th anniversary, Mark A. Taylor reflects on the need for more than annual reunions to keep a far-flung Christian family connected—and why the mission remains unchanged.
March 22, 2006
Have We Said Enough?
Mark A. Taylor reflects on why churches must repeat announcements for real buy-in, then highlights Preaching Standard, Christian Standard’s website and e-newsletter, and upcoming Standard Publishing-sponsored events.
March 15, 2006
The Stories and the Strength
Mark A. Taylor reviews Brian Jones’s Second Guessing God, a story-filled book that faces doubt honestly, avoids pat answers, and points readers to God’s Word with hope, humor, and tears.
March 8, 2006
The Truth About Elders and Ministers
Disconnected comments can reveal a lot about how elders and ministers relate. Mark A. Taylor contrasts unhealthy patterns with a better path marked by mutual respect, shared accountability, and stronger leadership.
February 15, 2006
What”s So Important?
A youth-group story about taking work too seriously leads to a challenge for church leaders. Barna survey results highlight a gap between what pastors believe about members’ priorities and what members report.
February 8, 2006
More Than One Month
A reflection on Black History Month, Denzil Holness’s call for Christian witness, and the need to face systemic racism through self-examination, confession, and reconciliation in the body of Christ.
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.
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
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 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 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.
