Challenged churches
All churches face challenges. Defining the biggest challenge can help congregations determine what can be done to meet it. “Are we a challenged church?” One congregation closes every 90 minutes,…
Sympathy +
“I’m so sorry.” “I’m sorry for your loss.” “You have my sympathy.” I’m sure you recognize those statements, and you can probably picture a very common setting where they are…
Catechism truths from Matthew: The Ten Commandments
At the end of the 13th century, King Edward I of England invaded Scotland. The Scots yearned for a leader to restore their kingdom. They found one in William Wallace,…
Quick to listen
“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19). God wants us to be quick to listen for good reason. He knows that…
Please explain: Can a Bible verse be overused or used at an inappropriate time or setting?
Can a Bible verse be overused or used at an inappropriate time or setting? Picking up a family favorite from the dessert section in the grocery store can’t be a…
The gospel in song
Luther’s first congregational hymn puts the gospel right where it belongs: in the mouths of God’s people. Not everyone rejoiced when Luther’s first congregational hymn “Dear Christians, One and All,…
Parent conversations: How does a parent’s role change over time?
No matter what age your children are, your role as a parent has changed over time. The first time we leave them with someone else as newborns can feel monumental.…
Q&A: How should I help my child struggling with same-sex attraction?
My child is struggling with same-sex attraction. What should I do? Treat same-sex attraction as a sin, not as THE sin. One of the devil’s tricks is to convince us…
The public ministry and the divine call
What does it mean when an individual receives a call to share God’s Word with other people? Every Christian has been given the task of sharing and proclaiming the message…