At times, group leaders realize they need to speak with a study member about a particular concern or problem. Let’s call this a ‘pastoral conversation’.
When you become complacent in your ministry and do the same programs and activities “because that’s what we have always done”, then your ministry will fail to cater to changes in culture.
What do airlines, hotels and other travel-related organizations want from business travellers? Well, obviously my money, but they would never be so crass as to put it like that. Instead they say, “We want your loyalty”.
In the ancient world, a covenant established a relationship of solidarity and loyalty. It was based on solemn promises, sealed with signs, and often regulated by a covenant document (the book of Deuteronomy is the fullest example in the Bible). The covenant document came from the lord of the covenant, stating who he was and how the relationship with his people had been established, and giving the conditions of the relationship.
Unless we are very deliberate and diligent, evangelism will almost always ‘fall of the table’ when push comes to shove in church (or Christian group) practice.
Many older people—and some younger ones too—have difficulty sleeping right through the night, spending hours or minutes trying to go to sleep. Many years ago, I was discussing insomnia with Dr Paul White, the famous “Jungle Doctor”. He stated, “If I can’t sleep, I don’t count sheep, I talk to the Shepherd.” The idea fascinated me, as a very frustrating time could then be used for something worthwhile.
I think we need to acknowledge that some Christmas traditions are just genuinely unhelpful. But what about less overt customs?
English evangelical vicar Melvin Tinker recently found himself the subject of a media storm for daring to say that homosexual sex was morally wrong. This was in response to the decision by his local Canon to support and bless a gay pride rally, including draping a rainbow flag on the steps of York Minster.
Summaries and links for further reading on the commodification of the body parts of aborted babies, the invitation to "come as you are", and how to win by not arguing.
When learning to pray, children (and adults!) often fall into a rut. They use the same words and pray the same things every time. I came up with an idea to help, to make praying fun, and to prompt the people praying to consider more things to pray about.