If we can learn anything from the first century churches of Asia Minor, it is the propensity of Christians, churches, and spiritual movements toward decline.

Churches today face a host of challenges from both within and without. Between a corrupt culture, biased media, lukewarm leaders, apathy, and hyper-criticism, it is realistic to acknowledge our propensity toward decline.

And yet, though our challenges may have different nuances, they are really no different or greater than the challenges faced in the first century. To such a church, Jesus instructed, “Strengthen the things which remain” (Revelation 3:2).

Regardless of present needs or current trends, the truth will always remain, and the Holy Spirit is always speaking. (more…)

Each year, we have a Deacon’s Orientation—a time when the deacons and their wives come apart for a couple of days of training, equipping, and refreshing so they are better able to represent the Lord, the Pastor, and their church.

In this week’s video, I share three goals for this annual retreat and why I believe this time is so important for the deacons, their wives, and our church.

(If you cannot see this video in your RSS reader or email, you can watch it here.) (more…)

This is one of my favorite leadership lessons. I love the local church! And I love to watch it grow in ways that honor Christ.

Some have twisted God’s design for church growth into a methodology of pleasing the unregenerate seeker or a formula of self-gratifying worship.

But the book of Acts reveals the heart of God for the church—Christ-honoring, Spirit-prompted growth! Growth that pleases Christ is focused on Him and is carried out with a pure heart of leading souls to Christ and diligently discipling them in their walk with the Lord.

The philosophy of church growth presented in this lesson is both Christ-honoring and practical. I trust it will be a blessing and a help to you.

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Before and after the lesson, I answer the following in-studio questions: (more…)

The pace and demands of ministry add a unique dimension to marriage! Speaking from the standpoint of a husband and pastor, here are three suggestions to help you strengthen your marriage as you serve the Lord together.

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(If you cannot see this video in your RSS reader or email, you can watch it here.)

This past week, I was encouraged by spending time with one of our college graduates who is personally investing in lives—leading people to the Lord and nurturing new Christians in their faith.

Acts 4:13 tells us that non-believers could observe the lives of the early disciples and know that they had been with Jesus. In a similar way, those to whom we minister—whether they be our own family, our church, or unsaved people in the community—should be able to see in our lives genuine substance of our walk with the Lord and witness for Him.

Make sure you get all future Growth Points videos by subscribing to the Spiritual Leadership Podcast