James Offers a Solution to Those Who Face Disappointment with Their Life I like the words of James in the Bible. His concise writing packs a lot of practical teaching into five succinct chapters. In chapter four he opens with a string of negative outcomes that often plague people. He lists fights, quarrels, envy, covetousness, […]
A Parable about Prayer In Matthew 20, Jesus shares a parable, predicts his death, and teaches about serving. He also heals two blind men. Nowhere in this chapter does he mention prayer, yet in this passage I see two insights about prayer. It’s a different prescription for prayer, and we will do well to follow […]
During 52 Churches, two churches planned to simultaneously shut down for a few months and then reopen as a new, merged entity. But it took much longer. At last we can visit. I call this process a reboot. Others might call it a church launch. Regardless, it’s new approach to church. Consider these seven discussion questions […]
One of our goals in 52 Churches was to visit all ten churches located in our local school district. After 52 Churches ended, that number increased to eleven. The primary marketing for this new church is yard signs, spread throughout the area, suggesting a different kind of church. We make a mental note to visit. […]
I’ve read books about emergent churches, but I’ve never been to one. At this church, the church leaders want to serve this underserved neighborhood: the poorest and least safe, crime-laden and hopeless. Consider these four discussion questions about Church 54. 1. They meet at 5:30 p.m. The plan is to share a meal, offer a […]
The third line of Jabez’s prayer is: “that Your hand would be with me” Having just asked God for greater blessing—in order to bless others—and more influence—in order to help others—Jabez realizes that he needs God’s direction and guidance so that he may proceed wisely and justly. Indeed, having more blessing and more power can […]
Our destination is not a church to visit but a revisit, returning to the congregation we were part of a decade ago. Consider these four discussion questions about Church #52: 1. This church would be bigger, except they keep sending members away to plant new churches. How could your church do better at sending people […]
When it Comes to God, Should We “Fake it Till We Make It?” Psalm 142 is a prayer of lament. David’s hiding in a cave, likely fearing for his life. He feels alone with no one walking alongside him or having any concern for him. He cries out that he has no refuge, no protective […]
The church’s pastor is out of town, and the laity leads the entire service. One thing they do is “prayers for the people.” Consider these four discussion questions about Church #48: 1. Someone asks us to sign their guestbook but then scrambles to find a pen. Though once common, guestbooks now seem archaic and carry […]
Located in a building with shared tenant space, this church has an inviting location, easily accessible, with nearby parking. They are a most welcoming church. Consider these four discussion questions about Church #43: 1. With little room to mingle, we sit down. Several people come over to greet us. They give a heartfelt thanks for […]