Over the last several years, I have noticed a trend of pastors getting clever with Easter Sunday. Rather than making this Sunday themed on the resurrection itself, they center it on an effect of the resurrection—emphasizing a set of psychological or relational topics.

Although I understand the thought process here, I believe it is a mistake.

Churches today have a tendency to neglect the core doctrines of the blood atonement, the resurrection, and the transforming power of Christ in our lives. To take these key weeks surrounding the celebration of Christ’s resurrection and, rather than emphasizing major Bible themes, to preach messages of a more shallow substance is to trivialize one of the most significant seasons of the year.

In this growth points podcast, I share a few thoughts on why I believe that we need to seize the Easter season to lift up Christ.

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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.

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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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