A generation ago children were taught to revere church buildings as sacred spaces. Many parents admonished their kids, “Don’t run in church, this is God’s house.” Today church buildings are viewed more through the lens …
Spiritual Renewal Lessons From Eugene Peterson
Last week I read Winn Collier’s new book ‘Burning in My Bones: The Authorized Biography of Eugene Peterson.” It is a wonderful book about a Godly man. Eugene’s life was all about spiritual growth, formation …
10 Things I Never Asked Someone Else To Do For Me
Every renewal leader knows that delegating creates a thriving ministry. High impact mission depends on training, empowering and releasing members for ministry as described in Ephesians 4. Congregations that are living up to their full …
Renewal and Resurrection Hope
“It’s Friday But Sunday’s Comin!” is the title of one of my favorite messages preached years ago by social justice advocate, Tony Campolo. During Holy Week 2021 I’m again reminded, as his message pointed out, …
How To Increase Imagination in Ministry
Someone once said that churches fail for lack of nerve. In other words, churches fail for the lack of courage to change failing things. This is true, but I’d add that churches also fail for …
RENEWAL AND THE WORLD OF SOCCER
My family and I are obsessed with “the beautiful game” of soccer. I often find leadership and renewal lessons from the world of sports. Although change amongst billion-dollar sports franchises happens more quickly than in …
Renewal and Becoming a Better Leader
Church renewal depends on good leaders. As I’ve highlighted previously, “As leaders go, so goes the church.” It’s revealing that every time God makes a major redemptive move, he raises up a leader. In this …
Renewal And NextGen Ministry
Renewal congregations have a short list of things they do well. That short list should include next generation student ministries. This is particularly important given that according to a Pinetops Foundation report, 1 million young …
Renewal and Lived Theology
Renewal pastors in the Reformed/Presbyterian tradition are part of a community that loves declared theology. Declared theology gives expression to deeply held beliefs then covenants to live within the confines of those shared beliefs and …
Let Love Rule!
We’re just coming off the Valentine’s Day weekend which can bring up a lot of feelings for people. Hopefully for believers in Christ it causes us to reflect on how we have or have not …
