Analysts and church growth experts say the North American church is in decline and “in a state of lethargy.” The signs are everywhere: a steady decline in church membership, especially among mainline denominations, a striking increase in the percentage of Americans who do not attend church, and a decrease in the numbers of young adults … Continue reading Reflections on Spiritual Maturity
discipleship
God’s Spiritual Roadmap
God has two primary goals for us, and both of them start with the gospel. According to the apostle Paul, the gospel is the power of God for salvation (Rom. 1:16). In practice, the power of God in the gospel accomplishes two things: 1) The gospel is the message of salvation from sin through Christ’s … Continue reading God’s Spiritual Roadmap
God in Everyday Life
I've been thinking more over the last week about the idea that God seeks to transform us within the context of our own lives. I think this is an important point and deserves a bit more discussion. God speaks to you and seeks to transform you from within your own context; in other words, through … Continue reading God in Everyday Life
Identity and Expectations
When does trying to meet the expectations of others become unhealthy? Most of us have found ourselves on a wicked treadmill of being driven or consumed by the expectations of others. I'd like to suggest that the only way to not be constantly blown around by the expectations of others (or by the ridiculous expectations … Continue reading Identity and Expectations