In this pilgrimage called life, we often face tests. Usually we think of tests as something we took in school. They were something we crammed for the night before and then prayed hard we would pass them. We take driver’s tests, blood tests before we get married, and the doctors often tell us they need to run some tests. In God’s economy our tests can be divided into three categories. Continue reading “Three Tests”
Preaching
The following is an excerpt from Oswald Chambers about preaching from his book Disciples Indeed (1958, 2002; Marshall, Morgan & Scott). His words are penetrating and insightful. “For we do not preach ourselves but Christ Jesus as Lord, and ourselves as your bondservants for Jesus’ sake.” (2 Corinthians 4:5)
A personal testimony feeds you from hand to mouth; you must have more equipment than that if you are to preach the Gospel.
The preacher must be part of his message, he must be incorporated in it. That is what the baptism of the Holy Ghost did for the disciples. When the Holy Ghost came at Pentecost He made these men living epistles of the teaching of Jesus, not human gramophones recording the facts of His life. Continue reading “Preaching”
I Don’t Like Labels (Part 2)
When there was conflict in the church at Jerusalem, the pastor of the church, James, stood up and spoke. It settled the issue and the church moved on. Today we are more likely to create a small group to discuss the shortcomings of the pastor and see if we can fire him. The main thing quits being the main thing if we think we see all and know all. Continue reading “I Don’t Like Labels (Part 2)”
A Call to Prayer for Senior Pastors
An invitation is going out to senior pastors today for a prayer gathering, September 30 – October 1. Please click here to be redirected to Ronnie Floyd’s blog where you’ll find all the details.
Please help us spread the word and invite your senior pastor to attend!
I Don’t Like Labels (Part 1)
It seems everyone in our country wants to wear a label. Designer labels identify the shirt, slacks, or blouse. If you are what you wear, then I’m a polo player with a brother named Brooks, and an uncle named Orvis. Slogans on t-shirts indicate a school, philosophy, musician, or host of other things you want to be affiliated with. Right now I’m wearing a shirt that says, “Wait a minute… I need to put on my ‘Gosh I really care’ face.” Continue reading “I Don’t Like Labels (Part 1)”