August 21, 2023
August 27 | Application (‘The Best Singing Voice of All’)
"Music educates and entertains," David Faust writes. "It stirs our emotions, shapes our moods, and communicates ideas. Music impacts our everyday lives." . . .
Articles for tag: Paul And Silas
November 12, 2021
Illinois Preacher Explores Pandemic, Isolation, and God’s Presence in New Book
Bob Beckman's first book, "Presence in Solitude: The Pastoral Promise of the Pandemic," takes readers “on a brief journey through the New Testament with others who were seemingly alone in grace circumstances.”
February 11, 2021
Sam E. Stone: Words of Encouragement from a Recent Graduate (circa 1958)
In this week's "Throwback Thursday" we share the first Christian Standard article ever written by our former editor, Sam E. Stone, who died Jan. 25. The article from 1958—shortly after Sam graduated from college and married—is solid evidence that Sam was a great encourager from a young age.
October 24, 2020
10 Foundation Stones of the Church—No. 7: Prayer
By Jerry Harris Since May, my publisher’s letter has focused on the “foundation stones” that actually make the church . . . well, the church. We find them in Acts 2:41-47. This month we focus on the seventh one mentioned: prayer. Prayer is often considered a very personal experience, something connected to a private quiet time just between oneself and God. That’s not wrong. But in thinking about prayer that way, we can miss a very important aspect of prayer. The answer to the popular question “What Would Jesus Do?” typically is informed by what Jesus actually did in Scripture.
May 1, 2020
10 Foundation Stones of the Church—No. 1: Baptism
By Jerry Harris An American cultural phenomenon hit late in 2019. Kanye West released a gospel album and simultaneously declared he was dedicating himself to spreading the gospel message. The album, Jesus Is King, debuted at No. 1 and in its first week was streamed more than 200 million times and sold 109,000 copies! People were immediately skeptical, both of the music and the artist. There was no shortage of judgment upon West from the Christian community. The album includes some incredible worship songs, but one stood out, particularly because it addresses a disturbing trend within the church that leaders
February 27, 2019
Four Ideas for Illustrating Truth
By Jeff Faull âThe elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teachingâ (1 Timothy 5:17, New American Standard Bible). Church leaders are often called to work hard at preaching and teaching. One of the most challenging aspects of that responsibility is finding and developing sources of relevant, interesting, and compelling illustrations. Here are a few simple suggestions for finding fresh illustrations for sermons, meditations, or Bible studies. SCOUR THE NEWS, ESPECIALLY THE WEIRD NEWS The news provides illustrations from real life that are instantly documented, perennially
November 12, 2018
Lesson for November 18, 2018: The Church Grows in Europe (Acts 16:9-15, 22-34)
Dr. Mark Scott wrote this treatment of the International Sunday School Lesson. Scott teaches preaching and New Testament at Ozark Christian College, Joplin, Missouri. This lesson treatment is published in issue no. 12 (weeks 45–48; November 11—December 2, 2018) of The Lookout magazine, and is also available online at www.lookoutmag.com. ______ Lesson Aim: Pray for missionaries and other believers in areas known for the persecution of Christians. ______ By Mark Scott The first missionary journey (Acts 13, 14) was so successful that a church conference had to be called to handle the growth (15:1-35). Thanks to Peter’s testimony, Paul’s report, and James’ use of Amos
April 28, 2014
Does Worship Belong in Small Groups?
By Michael C. Mack QUESTION: Should we worship in our small group? ANSWER: Does a heart belong in the human body? Does an operating system belong on a computer? Does peanut butter go well with jelly? Does chocolate belong in a chocolate chip cookie? Worship makes a small group run. It”s what holds it together. It”s what makes a sweet aroma, pleasing to God. The question about whether worship belongs in a small group usually comes from Christians who believe for some reason, and with no biblical support, that worship should be reserved for a certain place (the church building)
