One of the first books I ever purchased as a new believer was Foxe’s Book of Martyrs. Vance Havner was preaching in my home church, and he mentioned the impact that book had made on his life. That week, I rushed down to the local Christian bookstore in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and purchased a hardback copy. It is still in my library today. Continue reading “Marketing Martyrdom”
Multi-Level Tithing
In this economy, there is increased pressure on non-profit groups, charitable organizations, and churches to raise funds. Those born after 1946 are largely unchurched, and those who are in church do not give as their parents and grandparents did. The church is faced with a declining giving base as the older generation dies off. In addition, Boomers and Busters give a much smaller percentage of their income than their ancestors. Continue reading “Multi-Level Tithing”
They Say They’re Serving God…But Do They Mean It?
I’ve traveled to the Holy Land many times over the past five years. There is much “religion” in the land of our Lord. Today you can hear the Muslims praying during their routine prayer times. You will find devout Jews praying at the Western Wall. Not to the wall, but facing toward the site of the Holy of Holies. With both, sincerity can never be questioned. Continue reading “They Say They’re Serving God…But Do They Mean It?”
Influential People
Each year, TIME Magazine releases their special issue with the 100 most influential people in the world. One year they broke the list down by leaders and revolutionaries; scientists and thinkers; heroes and pioneers; builders and titans; and artists and entertainers.
In scanning the magazine, I began to think about the people who have influenced my life through the years. While I don’t know that I could name one hundred, I do know there are people who have marked me for life. Everything I am, I owe in some way to them. I realize that Jesus is first and foremost, but I’m talking specifically about the people God has used in my life. Continue reading “Influential People”
The Sad State of the Ministry (Part 2)
OTHER WOMEN
Some preachers lose their calling and unction because they don’t know how to guard their hearts. They have a problem with women. More than one man in ministry has lost it all because he didn’t stay off the internet and didn’t guard his heart. I have longtime friends from college who are no longer in ministry. They’ve lost their families in the process. They were gifted, talented, and recognized by their peers, but they got their eyes off the Lord and they fell. Continue reading “The Sad State of the Ministry (Part 2)”