But not until the COVID-19 crisis hit did I learn about the global influenza pandemic of 1918 — known colloquially as the Spanish flu — and my family’s connection to… Read More
Helping a Friend with Anxiety or Depression
Posted: April 28, 2020
Helping a Friend with… Anxiety or Depression During this difficult time, we all know someone (or we struggle with ourselves) with anxiety or depression (or both). Eighty percent of all… Read More
The Promises of God
Posted: April 23, 2020
Watch the lesson Douglas gave the Space Coast Church (Melbourne, Florida) on April 19, 2020. This link is for the whole service; Douglas comes on at about 15:30. Click here… Read More
Quarantine Church Con 2020 Video
Posted: April 22, 2020
Thank you for attending QCC2020! Quarantine Church Con 2020 Summary What an incredible time we had together last week! God brought together over 1,000 of his people to be equipped… Read More
How to Access the Abundance
Posted: April 17, 2020
How to access the abundance Access the podcast version of the newsletter by clicking here Abundance or scarcity? What is your outlook right now? I’ve been reading Dallas Willard’s book,… Read More
Q&A 1570—”The Lord put it on my heart”?
Posted: April 15, 2020
I often hear people saying, “The Lord put this on my heart.” Then they talk about their plan, or what they’re asking me to do for them. I do believe… Read More
Voices only: Virtual choirs are a hit | The Christian Chronicle
Posted: April 14, 2020
Voices only: Virtual choirs are a hit
Are We Making Disciples or Church Members? A FREE Resource
Posted: April 14, 2020
Dear Discipleship-first Friends, I hope the subject line got your attention because it is a vitally important question for the North American Church. Most of us have been trained to… Read More
Trust, Die, Rise—by Malcolm Cox
Posted: April 10, 2020
“if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.” (Romans 6:5 NIV11) Trust, Die,… Read More
Believing in the Resurrection of Jesus, by Sam Laing
Posted: April 9, 2020
Believing in the Resurrection of Jesus How can we be believers in Jesus if we were not there and did not see him after he was raised from the dead?… Read More
LISTEN: Francis Collins on the pandemic through the lens of his faith 📡
Posted: April 9, 2020
Notes: If you’ve been a regular listener to the Language of God podcast you’ve probably noticed our recent episodes have been a little different in attempt to respond to these times we’re… Read More
Q&A 1569—Does 1 Corinthians 11:3 mean women are forever subordinate to men?
Posted: April 7, 2020
Does 1 Corinthians 11:3 mean women are forever subordinate to men? Paul is considered to be a strong advocate for women, yet there is a passage or two in his… Read More
How Not to ‘Sink’, by Malcolm Cox
Posted: April 4, 2020
How not to ‘sink’ Access the podcast version of the newsletter by clicking here Thank you so much to everyone who gave me feedback on the topic of loneliness, especially… Read More
DISCIPLESHIP Bloom Where You’re Quarantined
Posted: April 3, 2020
DISCIPLESHIP Some of us were lonely well before the pandemic. How do we find God’s comfort now? Clarissa Moll This past Sunday, I took my children for a walk in… Read More
Playing God: Pandemic Brings Moral Dilemmas to US Hospitals
Posted: April 3, 2020
Two Christian bioethicists on life or death issues that American doctors may soon face. INTERVIEW BY KARA BETTIS March 31, 2020 Medical professionals across the US are preparing COVID-19 units… Read More
Compassion or Judgment?
Posted: April 1, 2020
Compassion or Judgment? Choose Today! You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one. – John 8:15 Compassion or Judgment? Facing loss is never easy and suicide in particular, is… Read More
End-of-Life Care, by Dr. Penny Cox
Posted: March 29, 2020
Listen to Dr. Penny Cox, a follower of Christ and a general practitioner in Britain, as she speaks sensitively and compassionately about end-of-life issues.
“Washing with the Word,” with Malcolm Cox
Posted: March 23, 2020
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you….Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27 NIV11) Mar 23, 10:21 AM Access the… Read More
How Churches of Christ responded when the 1918 ‘Spanish flu’ killed millions
Posted: March 22, 2020
Many congregations canceled services, and some Christians focused on feeding and nursing the poor. By John Mark Hicks NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Nashville saw its first case of the “Spanish flu” in… Read More
BBC News: Coronavirus: Creativity, kindness and canals offer hope amid outbreak
Posted: March 21, 2020
I saw this on the BBC News App and thought you should see it: From environmental improvements to acts of kindness, there are glimmers of light amid the crisis. Continue… Read More
“New Podcast Series for the Duration of Covid 19,” by Malcolm Cox
Posted: March 19, 2020
New Podcast Series Something to get you through the Covid 19 crisis with your spirit intact. Introducing the new daily podcast based on the Psalms of Ascent (Psalms 120-134) The… Read More
Viral Christianity, by Rob Krantz
Posted: March 16, 2020
Viral Christianity by Rob Kranz The beauty of a blog is that you are in full control of what you write about. Most of the time, I write about things I… Read More
Faith and Finances Ministry
Posted: March 16, 2020
FAITH AND FINANCES: A 21ST CENTURY BIBLICAL GUIDE FOR GROWING, PROTECTING, AND USING YOUR MONEY CLICK HERE TO ORDER NOW! “Faith and Finances is a timely and much-needed exposition on… Read More
Coronavirus (Covid-19): A Christian Response
Posted: March 13, 2020
LESSONS FOR YOU AND ME: Don’t over-react Trust the Lord Beware the real virus: sin Be excellent stewards of the time Don’t overanalyze Care deeply about others, not just ourselves… Read More
“Untangling Addiction,” by Marcus De Carvalho
Posted: March 12, 2020
Dr. Marcus De Carvalho is a world renown specialist in addictions and a great friend to SIW. In this e-book he introduces hope and the ability to overcome the “hijacking”… Read More
Down Syndrome and the Image of God
Posted: March 9, 2020
By Samuel L. Caraballo A biology teacher sees things with a new perspective when his own child is born with trisomy 21, and reflects on her life and what it… Read More
Approaching Adam: Talking with Kids about Human Origins and the Bible
Posted: March 9, 2020
“Hey, Mom and Dad, where do humans come from?” Christy gives some helpful dos and don’ts to help parents lead theological and scientific conversations with their children. Read More >… Read More
“Crucial Conversations in Texas” – Malcolm Cox
Posted: March 9, 2020
Click here for the newsletter podcast version – with extra ‘bits’ The value of conversation As you may know I’ve been in Texas for a few days at the… Read More
Can Your Church Thrive in Exile?
Posted: March 9, 2020
Can Your Church Thrive in Exile? A Conversation with Randy Gariss Randy Gariss was minister of Joplin’s College Heights Christian Church when a mile-wide F5 tornado mowed into Joplin. Randy… Read More
The Movie FINDING GUY Free on You Tube
Posted: March 5, 2020
Five Years in the Making & Nominated for Best Documentary & Best Director at the 2018 International Christian Film Festival in Miami Learn More
“The Importance of Joy”
Posted: March 3, 2020
I find it very significant that on the last night of His life Jesus talked a lot about joy. Not exactly the topic you would expect from somebody about to… Read More
Are You Creating Disciples or Consumers? Interview with Kelvin Teamer
Posted: March 2, 2020
What does revival look like in the 21st century? Are You Creating Disciples or Consumers? An Interview with Kelvin Teamer Church leaders often want to preach what feels good, and church people… Read More
CLEAN- talk 20, Widow of Zarephath & Son (= OT character podcast 63)
Posted: March 1, 2020
We now begin CLEAN sub-series Reanimation. To listen to CLEAN podcast 20, The Widow of Zarephath & Son (17 minutes), click on the arrow. To download and listen later, right click here and choose ‘save target… Read More
The tragedy of the even dumber church
Posted: February 29, 2020
Christian theologian Dr. William Lane Craig during debate at Purdue University, Feb. 1, 2013. | (Photo: Nicole Byrd) It’s true – time really does fly. Eight years ago, I wrote an article… Read More
The Golden Rule & the Silver Rule
Posted: February 29, 2020
Examples of the Silver & Golden Rules in the world’s philosophies and religions: Jainism: “A man should wander about treating all creatures as he himself would be treated.” — Sutrakritanga, 1.11.33… Read More
Mental Health in the Church Setting 2020
Posted: February 26, 2020
Mental Health in the Church Setting Therefore, among God’s churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring. – 2 Thessalonians 1:4 I’ve… Read More
The Emotionally Healthy Leader, by John Teal
Posted: February 22, 2020
The Emotionally Healthy Leader Last fall, I reluctantly agreed to take a class called Emotionally Healthy Spirituality. It was being offered by a couple in our congregation. As I read… Read More
THE UNSURPRISING PUSH FOR POLYGAMY
Posted: February 22, 2020
Dear marriage supporter, If two men can marry one another, why not three? Or why not two men and a woman? What’s so special about the number two once it’s… Read More
Polyamory: Pastors’ Next Sexual Frontier
Posted: February 22, 2020
CT PASTORS Polyamory: Pastors’ Next Sexual Frontier These once-taboo relationships are showing up in churches across the US. Preston Sprinkle and Branson Parler A pastor recently told me (Preston)… Read More
Why a Contradiction Seems Convincing
Posted: February 21, 2020
Why a Contradiction Seems Convincing Click Here to Listen It’s easy to believe a lie when you haven’t heard the whole story. But have you ever wondered how people can… Read More
Father’s Day – Douglas Jacoby
Posted: February 20, 2020
Watch Doug’s sermon on Exodus 20 – “Honor Your Father”
“A Movement Divided,” by Samuel Escobar
Posted: February 19, 2020
Three approaches to world evangelization stand in tension with one another. Samuel Escobar (Peru) is President of the Latin American Theological Fraternity and Professor at Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Philadelphia,… Read More
Becoming a Pastor Theologian (thought-provoking quotes)
Posted: February 19, 2020
Thought-provoking excerpts from Todd Wilson and Gerald Hiestand, eds. Becoming a Pastor Theologian: New Possibilities for Church Leadership (Downers Grove IL: InterVarsity Academic, 2016), pp. 2, 19, 41-42, 56, 90,… Read More
Delving into the history of black churches
Posted: February 18, 2020
Delving into the history of black churches | The Christian Chronicle Edward J. Robinson’s newest book, “Hard-Fighting Soldiers: A History of African American Churches of Christ,” takes its title from… Read More
“Can a Christian be an environmentalist?”
Posted: February 15, 2020
“Caring for Creation” Click here for the newsletter podcast version – with extra ‘bits’ We have seen what I would call “proper weather” this last week. Flights cancelled, trees felled,… Read More
Which Battery Does Your Marriage Run On?
Posted: February 14, 2020
Which Battery Does Your Marriage Run On? Click Here to Listen Items which run on batteries are irritations waiting to happen. Something stops working. You’ve got to find a… Read More
Are You an American Church? (London, 1986)
Posted: February 10, 2020
The article I wrote back in 1986 about the origins of the Churches of Christ in the U.K. May be of some interest to some readers.
What is safety?
Posted: February 10, 2020
“How to be safe” Click here for the newsletter podcast version – with extra ‘bits’ It’s easy to become obsessed with safety. And with good reason. The coronavirus seems to… Read More
Paul’s Prison Journey—Malta, Sicily, Italy (29 Oct-8 Nov 2022)
Posted: February 10, 2020
. Participants: 30 (from England, Scotland, Italy, Spain, Canada, and 9 US states) . The apostle Paul was no stranger to prison. As he famously declared, “The Holy Spirit testifies to… Read More
SOM 40—Wow!
Posted: February 9, 2020
And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes (Matthew 7:28-29)…. Read More
The Best Non-Leadership Leadership Story
Posted: February 8, 2020
The Best Non-Leadership Leadership Story Matthew Dicks is a teacher, author, and award-winning storyteller. In this wonderfully funny TEDx Talk, titled “Speak Less-Expect More,” Matthew shares incredible insights on… Read More
SOM 39—Sand
Posted: February 8, 2020
24 “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came,… Read More
SOM 38—Lord, Lord
Posted: February 7, 2020
21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22… Read More
SOM 37—Prophets?
Posted: February 6, 2020
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from… Read More
Discipling Busy People Online (and More)
Posted: February 5, 2020
Discipleship-First Friends, I am just completing an experiment in disciple making with some current and future leaders in the staff at our church that I wanted to share with you…. Read More
SOM 36—Narrow
Posted: February 5, 2020
“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate… Read More
SOM 35—Gold
Posted: February 4, 2020
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12). Comment This sentence sums up much of… Read More
SOM 34—Ask
Posted: February 3, 2020
7 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and the… Read More
SOM 33—Swine
Posted: February 2, 2020
“Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you” (Matthew 7:6). This text connects with… Read More
SOM 32—Judge
Posted: February 1, 2020
1 “Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to… Read More
Bad Plot Summaries
Posted: January 31, 2020
Click Here to Listen Have you read any of the “bad plot summaries” that are going around the internet? For example, here’s a bad plot summary of the Lord of… Read More
SOM 31—Kingdom
Posted: January 31, 2020
33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will… Read More
SOM 30—Anxious
Posted: January 30, 2020
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on…. Read More
SOM 29—Mammon
Posted: January 29, 2020
“No man can serve two masters. For either he will hate the one and love the other. Or else he will hold fast to the one and despise the other…. Read More
SOM 28—Darkness
Posted: January 28, 2020
The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is single, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is evil, your whole body… Read More
SOM 27—Treasure
Posted: January 27, 2020
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where… Read More
SOM 26—Fast
Posted: January 26, 2020
Moreover, when you fast, do not put on a sad face like the hypocrites. For they disfigure their faces so that they may appear to men to fast. Truly I… Read More
SOM 25—Forgive
Posted: January 25, 2020
For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew… Read More
SOM 24—THE Prayer
Posted: January 24, 2020
“Pray then like this: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is… Read More
SOM 23—Prayer
Posted: January 23, 2020
5 “And when you pray, do not be as the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, so they may… Read More
SOM 22—Alms
Posted: January 22, 2020
“Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly,… Read More
SOM 21—Show-off!
Posted: January 21, 2020
“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew… Read More
SOM 20–Perfection
Posted: January 20, 2020
“You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). On the previous topic, “Enemies:” Jesus, Paul, and the early church spoke clearly and definitively about the… Read More
SOM 19—Enemies
Posted: January 19, 2020
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may… Read More
SOM 18—Retaliation
Posted: January 18, 2020
38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’39 But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps… Read More
Almost Half of Practicing Christian Millennials Say Evangelism Is Wrong – Barna Group
Posted: January 17, 2020
Sharing one’s faith—evangelizing—is a core practice among many religions. For Christians, it’s viewed as a mandate from Jesus himself before he departed earth: commanding his disciples to “spread the good… Read More
SOM 17—Oaths
Posted: January 17, 2020
33 “Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ 34 But I say to you, Do not take… Read More
SOM 16—Divorce
Posted: January 16, 2020
“It was said, ‘Whoever sends his wife away, let him give her a certificate of divorce’; but I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except for the… Read More
Losing our Religion: Conservative churches grapple with gender issues in time of growth
Posted: January 15, 2020
www.washingtontimes.com 5 mins read Religious conservative leaders at the national level see the fight over gender issues as make-or-break. (Associated Press/File) U.S. church attendance is dropping, but Hope Church in Memphis, Tennessee, is… Read More
SOM 15—Lust
Posted: January 15, 2020
27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in… Read More
SOM 14—Anger
Posted: January 14, 2020
You have heard that it was said by those of old, you will not kill; and whoever kills will be in danger of the judgment. But I say to you… Read More
125 Countries and 1 Core Mission – Interview with Douglas Jacoby
Posted: January 13, 2020
Renew.org If you had the opportunity to sit down and talk with a world traveling disciple maker, what questions would you ask? As for me, I was curious about what… Read More
SOM 13—Pharisees
Posted: January 13, 2020
“For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:20). Jesus’ words would probably have… Read More
List of Audio Lessons
Posted: January 12, 2020
Non-members can listen to several of the audio lessons (the Jesus N.T. Character Podcast, A Christian Response to Global Financial Crisis; Serving the Poor: Second Thoughts; Avatar; The Hunger Games, etc.), but… Read More
SOM 12—Fulfillment
Posted: January 12, 2020
17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 For truly, I say to… Read More
SOM 11—Light
Posted: January 11, 2020
You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do men light a lamp and put it under a basket, but… Read More
Everyday Disciple Maker: Debbra Stephens
Posted: January 10, 2020
Everyday Disciple Maker: Debbra Stephens CLICK HERE TO LISTEN Whether you work in sales or in a school, whether a preacher or a plumber, there is one… Read More
SOM 10—Salt
Posted: January 10, 2020
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt becomes foolish, how will it be salted? It is thereafter good for nothing but to be thrown out and… Read More
SOM 09—Persecuted
Posted: January 9, 2020
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when men speak abusively of you,… Read More
SOM 08—Peacemaking
Posted: January 8, 2020
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). “If most of us are honest with ourselves, we know that there are many… Read More
Q&A 1568—Salt losing saltiness?
Posted: January 8, 2020
In Matthew 5:13 we read, “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for… Read More
SOM 07—Pure
Posted: January 7, 2020
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8). (1) PURITY: A constant theme in Jesus’ teaching is that God looks not only at… Read More
Racism: Twisted reasoning
Posted: January 7, 2020
Douglas Jacoby, Washington DC (1993) (recommended by Russ Ewell, San Francisco) Prejudice is ugly and widespread, knowing no borders. Yet even more detestable is the use of biblical authority to justify… Read More
SOM 06—Merciful
Posted: January 6, 2020
The 5th beatitude: “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7). My friend David Berçot, who has examined all the ancient Christian writings, helps… Read More
SOM 05—Hungry
Posted: January 5, 2020
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness / justice, for they will be satisfied.” What does this mean? Consider such passages as: “Man does not… Read More
SOM 04—Meek
Posted: January 4, 2020
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5) “Meek” is a word we seldom use. It does not mean “weak.” It derives from the Old Norse mjúkr,… Read More
Netflix’s ‘Messiah’ Says the World Needs a Savior | Christianity Today
Posted: January 3, 2020
On January 1, Netflix released its latest über-bingeable series, Messiah, telling an all-too-believable story about the rise of a contemporary messianic figure known as Al-Masih (played by Mehdi Dehbi). Appearing out… Read More
11 Nigerian Christians Executed in ISIS Christmas Video | News & Reporting | Christianity Today
Posted: January 3, 2020
11 Nigerian Christians Executed in ISIS Christmas Video…… | News & Reporting | Christianity Today In another filmed massacre, 11 Nigerian Christians were executed by the Islamic State West African… Read More
Something You Can Never Be
Posted: January 3, 2020
Something You Can Never Be CLICK HERE TO LISTEN Have you ever been told an expression by somebody older than you which makes absolutely no sense to your generation?… Read More
SOM 03—Mourning
Posted: January 3, 2020
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:4). In the background there are well over 100 scriptural passages on mourning, like this one, where Jesus identifies himself… Read More
Does Science Disprove Faith?
Posted: January 2, 2020
By John Ortberg on January 1, 2020 This piece has been adapted from the transcript of a sermon delivered by John Ortberg at Menlo Park Presbyterian Church on January 5, 2014, and has… Read More
SOM 02—Poor
Posted: January 2, 2020
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). There are at least 20 beatitudes uttered by Jesus in the N.T. (8 in Matthew,… Read More
SOM 01—The Mountain
Posted: January 1, 2020
Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. (Matt 5:1-2 ESV) Mountains in the Bible are associated with Moses (Exod 19-20),… Read More
OT62-The Prophetess Huldah
Posted: January 1, 2020
Hebrew & Greek words: chuldah = mole. See the Huldah Gates (entrance into Temple precinct). nevi’ah = prophetess (Greek prophêtis) navi’ = prophet (Greek prophétēs) Prophetesses of the Bible: Old Testament… Read More
The Most Important Habit for 2020
Posted: December 31, 2019
I like New Year’s resolutions. About 60% of Americans will join with me and make them over the next few days as we head into 2020. Here is the most… Read More
SOM 00—Introduction—It Still Haunts Us
Posted: December 27, 2019
The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is the section of the New Testament widely agreed to contain the very heart of Jesus’ kingdom message. The teachings were and still are… Read More
The Overlooked Nativity Character
Posted: December 25, 2019
The Overlooked Nativity Character by Rob Kranz An old girlfriend once told me that the groom was just “a prop” at the wedding. The focus of the entire ceremony is supposed to… Read More
Christmas Quiz
Posted: December 25, 2019
Take the test (without going online or looking up the answers). Which was Jesus’s birthplace: Nazareth, Bethlehem, Egypt, or Capernaum? What is a manger: baby crib, food trough, soft container, or Christmas cradle?… Read More
Share with Us: Your Top Disciple Making Apps or Mobile Sites
Posted: December 11, 2019
Dear Discipleship-First Tribe, One of the major developments coming for disciple makers moving into 2020 is the proliferation of digital apps and mobile sites (that function like apps) to… Read More
Are the Crusades the Ultimate Black Mark Against Christianity? by Rob Kranz
Posted: December 4, 2019
Are the Crusades the Ultimate Black Mark Against Christianity? by Rob Kranz “How could anyone defend a religion that would sanction the Crusades?” Having spent a year living in Jerusalem in the… Read More
New Beginnings Are Possible
Posted: November 29, 2019
By Dan Armstrong • In the summer of 2019, two-time NBA champion, Olympic medalist, and reality TV star Lamar Odom announced he was giving up porn. But, he didn’t have a… Read More
Thanksgiving, Disciple Making, and the Deuteronomy 8 Principle – Discipleship.org
Posted: November 27, 2019
Discipleship-First Friends, Thanksgiving is an important day on many levels. We are committed to helping you be a disciple who makes disciples, so we know it’s important to “give thanks in… Read More
“Are You Possessed?”
Posted: November 25, 2019
Sermon given by Doug on 11-24-19 at the North River Church of Christ in Atlanta, GA. https://vimeo.com/375303498
Should You be a Pastor or a Professor? Thinking Through the Options – Canon Fodder
Posted: November 22, 2019
Since I am a professor at a seminary, it is not unusual (indeed, it is very common) for students to come to me for advice about whether they should enter… Read More
Q&A 1567—Have you smoked marijuana?
Posted: November 22, 2019
What does the bibble [sic] say about marijuana? After all, it is just a plant. Have you smoked it? Have you read about the effects it has on you? This is… Read More
Worst practices for dismissing a minister | The Christian Chronicle
Posted: November 21, 2019
Church experts and those who have been there discuss what not to do when firing a minister. Talking with ministers who have lost their jobs can feel repetitive. And depressing…. Read More
2 Ways to Fuel Disciple Making
Posted: November 14, 2019
We believe discipleship is the core mission of the church. That is why fueling discipleship is our mission. We can only do this with your prayers and support. Would you prayerfully consider joining… Read More
6 Things to Avoid in Dating – Third Drive Faith
Posted: November 14, 2019
Do you have a friend who needs good dating advice? Send this to him or her! Click here for more.
“I Was a Misunderstood Muslim: Common Misconceptions About Islam”
Posted: November 10, 2019
News about terrorist attacks may teach us about some Muslims, but not about most Muslims — and probably not about the Muslims down the street. Continue reading here. www.desiringgod.org
Q&A 1566—What color is Jesus?
Posted: November 8, 2019
Please, you claim to be the only Christians that are right, so tell me have you ever seen Jesus in the flesh, and if so what colour is he? —R.B…. Read More
Muscle and a Shovel | The Christian Chronicle
Posted: November 6, 2019
Muscle and a Shovel | The Christian Chronicle Muscle and a Shovel is a raw and gritty true story about a pair of young newly-weds who move to the city… Read More
OT61—Michal, Abigail, Bathsheba
Posted: November 1, 2019
Hebrew words: Mikhál = brook ‘Avigail = my father is joy Bath-sheva’ = daughter of the oath David’s wives: Ahinoam, Maachah, Haggith, Abital, Eglah Michal, Abigail, Bathsheba—and possibly more Note: this does not… Read More
Why should Christians care for creation?
Posted: October 31, 2019
New Common Question: Why should Christians care for creation? As bearers of God’s image, all people have the responsibility and privilege of caring for God’s creation. How can we… Read More
The Cautionary Tale of Jerry Falwell Jr. | Christianity Today
Posted: October 25, 2019
Something doesn’t smell right in Lynchburg, Virginia, home of Liberty University and its controversial president, Jerry Falwell Jr. According to a September report in Politico: “Everybody is scared for their… Read More
David Young and Eric Metaxas? Say no more!
Posted: October 25, 2019
Our very own cofounder, David Young, was recently on The Eric Metaxas Show! Leaders are talking about A Grand Illusion, you can join the conversation. Friends, In case you don’t know, Eric Metaxas… Read More
Q&A 1565—Have any ideas for a personal spiritual retreat?
Posted: October 25, 2019
Q: Thanks for sharing about your personal spiritual retreat in Canada [October 2019]. This is making me curious (and I suspect that others might be wondering also) about what is… Read More
Church and Culture, with Christian Ray Flores
Posted: October 23, 2019
Recently I caught up with one of the workshop presenters at our November 6th Gathering, Christian Ray Flores. Christian is a Renew.org co-founder and has an interesting perspective on culture and… Read More
What Should I Do To Become a Christian Teacher?, by John Oakes
Posted: October 20, 2019
Adapted with permission from Evidenceforchristianity.org I [John Oakes] have been serving as a teacher in one way or another for more than thirty years. It is my career, as a professor… Read More
Strength in Weakness Workshop – Duluth, GA
Posted: October 18, 2019
Guy Hammond’s Strength in Weakness ministry will be at the Cornerstone Church in Duluth, GA the weekend of Oct. 25-27, 2019. Here are links for more details: https://www.strengthinweakness.org/ 678.957.4715 info@cornerstoneduluth.org
Does God Promise to Heal Our Land? by Greg Koukl
Posted: October 17, 2019
Greg explains how 2 Chronicles 7:14 is used incorrectly by Christians thinking it’s speaking to them. Click here to play. Transcript: I want to speak for a moment about the danger of… Read More
The Top 100 Verses on Money and Wealth
Posted: October 16, 2019
Bookmark the list for Bible study, reference, and sharing with others. Top 100 Bible Verses on Money and Wealth Also see the Topical Index of Money and Wealth Scriptures The latest… Read More
Outgrowing Facts – Tyndale House
Posted: October 16, 2019
Assyriologist George Heath-Whyte explains the errors in Richard Dawkins’ new book Richard Dawkins was asked by journalist Krishnan Guru-Murthy in an interview recently, “If you could change the world, how would you change… Read More
The Tyndale House Greek New Testament online
Posted: October 16, 2019
We are delighted to announce, in partnership with Crossway publishers, that the Tyndale House Greek New Testament (THGNT), edited by Tyndale House Academic Vice Principal Dr Dirk Jongkind and Principal Dr Peter J Williams, is… Read More
Best practices for dismissing a minister – Christian Chronicle
Posted: October 16, 2019
Church experts and those who have been there offer five key recommendations for leaders. Cheryl Mann Bacon Columnist Somewhere in the unwritten but badly needed handbook for elders are three… Read More
SBC President: We Failed to Heed Victims’ Voices
Posted: October 15, 2019
SBC President J. D. Greear speaks at the ERLC’s Caring Well Conference on October 3.Southern Baptist Convention President J. D. Greear acknowledged that while sexual abuse survivors have pleaded with… Read More
Q&A 1564—Can we dispense with the Old Testament?
Posted: October 11, 2019
The Book of Hebrews says the Old Covenant is obsolete, so since I already believe in Christ, I don’t need to bother with the Old Testament.—E.E. As there is a… Read More
Trinity Debate: Dr. James White v Dr. Shabir Ally
Posted: October 7, 2019
Debate – Tawheed or Trinity: Is God One or Three Divine Persons? Event in Atlanta, GA by Why Should I Believe at Georgia Tech on Wednesday, November 13 2019 6:30-9pm… Read More
CRISPR babies?
Posted: October 2, 2019
What should we think of DNA experiments and developments? Jim Stump ponders the most recent developments in the realm of gene editing, including CRISPR babies, the problem of chimeras, and more,… Read More
Q&A 1563—Jesus is my husband?
Posted: September 27, 2019
My book club is reading Falling in Love With Jesus: Abandoning Yourself to the Greatest Romance of Your Life. The authors teach that Christian women, whether single or married, should refer to… Read More
Jesus and His Enemies
Posted: September 22, 2019
My sermon at the North River Church of Christ on Sunday 22 September 2019 (9 am service). Principal texts: Luke 23:34 and Matt 5:38-48. https://vimeo.com/361631498
Online Bible Test—Am I a Student of the Word?
Posted: September 20, 2019
How well do we know God’s Word? Here’s a tool to evaluate our level of Bible knowledge. The diagnostic test at 3 levels has been constructed with the help of many around… Read More
Spiritual Abuse in Marriage
Posted: September 20, 2019
This is part 1 of a 2 part series. Written by: Darby Strickland, Counselor Read part 1 here.
Shared Church
Posted: September 19, 2019
“. . . members together of one body and sharers together . . .” (Eph. 3:6) Shared Church aims to encourage Christians and churches to practice participatory body life—the one-anothering… Read More
Is Your Church Missing the Communication Train? — by Christian Ray
Posted: September 18, 2019
Ask the tech-savvy youth in your church: How relevant and compelling is our communication? Are we truly engaging the information revolution to communicate the gospel to as many people as… Read More
How a Gay Man and a Christian Minister Became Great Friends
Posted: September 18, 2019
Kidogo – Christian Practicals 2.67K subscribers Guy Hammond used to live a gay life before he became a Christian. Now, as Christian minister, he runs an international ministry dedicated to… Read More
Facts Concerning Social Media Use in 2019
Posted: September 16, 2019
Social Media – A powerful tool https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6k_G_h41ZaQ
Q&A 1562—Recently discovered letter from Egypt shows early Christians worldly?
Posted: September 13, 2019
What do you think about the recently discovered Christian letter? I learned about this through Fox News. The article is titled “1,700-year-old recently discovered Christian letter offers clues into how faithful… Read More
Gauging The Health of Your Church Members
Posted: September 12, 2019
By CSN on Sep 05, 2019 01:00 pm There are many ways you can assess the spiritual health of your church members. Faith, regular church attendance, and engagement in community… Read More
What is the Bible? (Rob Bell), by Jon Sherwood
Posted: September 7, 2019
“Just let the Bible be whatever it is.” … But just what is the Bible? What is the Bible? This is a vitally important question. Rob Bell is a famous… Read More
Are Most Scientists Atheists?
Posted: September 7, 2019
ARE MOST SCIENTISTS ATHEISTS? Baruch Aba Shalev wrote a book titled 100 Years of Nobel Prizes. That book contains a report on Nobel prizes awarded between 1901 and 2000. During that period, when 423… Read More
Chik-fil-A – “Anti-equality giving”
Posted: September 7, 2019
CHICK-FIL-A GIVING. San Antonio, Texas, and Buffalo, New York, have kicked Chick-fil-A out of their airports for “aiding and abetting Christian organizations.” What is especially ironic is that it is the charity work of… Read More
Understanding Myths That May Hold Us Back
Posted: September 5, 2019
Don’t Be Fooled Into Believing These Final Two GRIEF MYTHS You have taken from me my closest friends and have made me repulsive to them. I am confined and cannot… Read More
Faithfulness Is Not Theologically Complicated (Greg Koukl)
Posted: September 2, 2019
Greg Koukl continues to turn out thought-provoking articles, accessible and interesting. (Personally, I thought his section on salvation was over-simplified, but every other section was excellent. – DJ) Faithfulness Is… Read More
OT Character Podcast 60, Mephibosheth
Posted: September 1, 2019
Introduction Our O.T. character today is a minor character. And yet doesn’t mean he isn’t important. The relationship between David and Jonathan (Saul’s son, next in line for the throne)… Read More
Q&A 1561—Boring to be with God for all eternity?
Posted: August 30, 2019
We believe we Christians will spend eternity with God. No disrespect meant, but sooner or later, wouldn’t that grow old? Maybe the first few years or centuries would be great,… Read More
The Evolution of a Homeschooling Mom
Posted: August 29, 2019
By Kendra Terpstra on August 16, 2019 Whenever people ask me how I found out about BioLogos, I usually give them a quick elevator speech that begins with when I first read… Read More
The Developer’s Dark Side, by Craig Groeschel
Posted: August 26, 2019
This thought-provoking podcast explores four critical weaknesses in leadership: controlling, criticizing, avoiding, and rescuing. Craig Groeschel is connected with Life Church, and puts out a monthly podcast. Listen here.
Season 2 of Language of God
Posted: August 26, 2019
“One thing I see at the orthodox cores of our traditions is that at one and the same time we are to hold faithfully to truth as we know it… Read More
The Billy Graham Rule Goes to Court | News & Reporting | Christianity Today
Posted: August 23, 2019
A North Carolina sheriff’s deputy sues his former employer for religious discrimination after it wouldn’t accommodate his request to not train a female officer one-on-one. David Roach August 20, 2019… Read More
Searching for Disciple Making Churches and Movements in North America?
Posted: August 21, 2019
Dear Discipleship-First Tribe, We want you to become the disciple maker God intends you to be. For those of you who are church leaders, we also want you to develop… Read More
“Our Family Spent Too Much Money Last Year” by Patrick Blair
Posted: August 21, 2019
Late last year, I noticed our family checkbook was getting very light. Dread filled my mind as I realized that we would need to borrow money to pay our bills… Read More
Video on Relativism
Posted: August 16, 2019
Today, PraegerU released Paul Copan’s five-minute video on relativism—“True for You, But Not for Me.” This is a great platform for intelligent public discourse on this topic and its pernicious… Read More
Q&A 1560—Did Joshua violate the Sabbath?
Posted: August 16, 2019
In Joshua 6, God commanded the Israelites to circle the city 7 days in a row. Therefore, one of those days had to be a Sabbath. Would walking around the… Read More
Feedback on the Online Bible Test
Posted: August 11, 2019
Two persons (perhaps more) were not so fond of the Online Bible Test, commenting that it isn’t as important to know chapter and verse, or the arrangement of biblical books, as… Read More
Islam & Christianity (lesson from Azerbaijan)
Posted: August 6, 2019
The podcast Islam & Christianity (26 minutes) is intended to help the new student of world religions to develop a feel for how the two faiths connect. This is material I… Read More
How to Invite a Transgender Person to Church, by Brandon Redler
Posted: August 2, 2019
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuD5IrsSS-0
Christian Cyborgs?!? A Serious Conversation About Science and Humanity
Posted: August 2, 2019
Man melding with machine. Anti-aging technology. Brain-computer interface. Gene-edited “designer” babies. Some scientific advances go beyond helping humanity overcome obstacles. They actually begin to help humanity overcome, well . …. Read More
Q&A 1559—Why Did God Tell Abraham to Sacrifice Isaac?
Posted: August 2, 2019
Why did the Lord tell Abraham to sacrifice Isaac? This seems barbaric. Indeed, this is one of the more disturbing passages of the Old Testament. In the 22nd chapter of… Read More
Two Things to Know for Back-to-School Time
Posted: July 31, 2019
First – Learn from Disciple Making Leader: Small Circle Steve McCoy is the leader of Small Circle, one of our trusted disciple-making partners. Here’s what he told us about his ministry… Read More
Common Grounds – 3rd Chapter in San Diego
Posted: July 30, 2019
Common Grounds (www.cgunity.com) – Third chapter starting in September (9/26, 11:30am-1:00pm) in San Diego. Robert Carrillo is speaking, see flyer with all info here.
“Scripture-Soaked” – message at North River Church
Posted: July 29, 2019
Watch the message given in Atlanta (North River Church) on July 28, 2019. https://vimeo.com/350604112?fbclid=IwAR3vKZU4TYY-ZDZZ61QD6V7gqz5I3cXSCnjFF8f7dKqH4s44SW9HffM-FSs
“A Life Well-Lived: Let’s Be Honest” – from Proverbs
Posted: July 29, 2019
Sermon I did in the Midpoint Ministry (Chicago) on July 21, 2019. (The sermon begins at about 0:38, and ends at 1:12.) https://www.facebook.com/MidpointMinistryCenter/videos/492425961508466/
Biblical Town of Ziklag May Have Been Discovered
Posted: July 24, 2019
Located between Kiryat Gat and Lachish in southern Israel, Khirbet a-Ra‘i has been the site of excavations since 2015. The researchers recently announced their belief that they have uncovered the… Read More
Q&A 1558—Open communion?
Posted: July 19, 2019
I agree with your take on communion as an actual meal. Concerning excluding unbelievers because they can’t “connect” with it, did the early church use this rationale for any means… Read More
Más Allá de la Vida 1 & 2, por Arturo Elizarrarás
Posted: July 17, 2019
Podcast 1 Podcast 2 Más Allá de la Vida – Slides
Ebola survivor Dr. Kent Brantly returning to Africa as medical missionary
Posted: July 16, 2019
FORT WORTH, Texas — Dr. Kent Brantly sat on his counselor’s couch and wept. The tears came last summer as the Christian physician visited with Dottie Schulz, a missionary care volunteer… Read More
Mark Moore on Life, Legacy and Core 52
Posted: July 15, 2019
I was recently able to catch up with Renew Gathering speaker Mark Moore. We talked about life transitions, creating a legacy, personal discipline, and a new book he has written… Read More
How to Avoid the Professor’s Ploy, by Greg Koukl
Posted: July 10, 2019
Part 7: Greg addresses a situation where you may be tempted to take on the burden of proof in conversation about Christianity. Watch video here.
What is the Bible? (Rob Bell), by Jon Sherwood
Posted: July 9, 2019
“Just let the Bible be whatever it is.”…But just what is the Bible? What is the Bible? This is a vitally important question. Rob Bell is a famous American author,… Read More
Tired of Living as Predictably as a Facebook Advertisement? – Renew.org
Posted: July 6, 2019
Headlines were buzzing with the announcement. Facebook had introduced a new metric that would significantly revamp their algorithms. Continue here.
Ancient DNA reveals the origins of the Philistines
Posted: July 5, 2019
FROM THE SEA DNA obtained from remains of people who inhabited an ancient city on Israel’s coast, including this child, indicate that the Philistines mentioned in the Hebrew Bible descended… Read More
Q&A 1557—Why weren’t Ruth—and David—excluded from Israel?
Posted: July 5, 2019
In Deut 23:3 God gives the command that no descendants of the Moabites even to the tenth generation may enter the assembly of the Lord. I was wondering if Ruth… Read More
Diplomado en Consejería Bíblica 2019
Posted: July 4, 2019
Agosto-Octubre 2019 La Fundación Proyecto Esdras, A. C., en alianza con In-Motion Counseling, presentan este curso especial sobre Consejería Bíblica en sus dos modalidades: División Entrenamiento para Ministros: MTA-BL03 Principios… Read More