Author: Administrador

In his new book What They Didn’t Teach You in Seminary (Baker), James Emery White stresses the importance of relevance in effective communication. He says, “Being relevant has nothing to do with watering down the truth of the gospel. It has nothing to do with removing all references to sin, the cross or commitment. It … Continue reading “Relevant Preaching”

In a revealing quote from Robert Reich, former Clinton Labor Secretary who wrote an article in American Prospect magazine, he said clearly the cultural conflict the United States will face in the years ahead: “The great conflict of the 21st century will not be between the West and terrorism. Terrorism is a tactic, not a … Continue reading “21st Century Conflict Is Faith vs. Secularism”

The Bible can transform our lives. It also can transform your church. The past year was phenomenal for our congregation. David Petro, our Minister of Education, gave us a novel idea: He suggested we "read the Bible." Seriously, his idea was that we—the entire congregation—covenant together to read the Bible through during the year. We … Continue reading “Letting the Bible Transform Your Church”

In a recent article by Tullian Tchividjian, he urges pastors: “Don’t make the mistake of assuming people understand the radical nature of what Jesus has done so your preaching ministry is focused primarily on what people need to do. “The ‘what we need to do’ portions of the Bible are good, perfect, and true; but … Continue reading “The Urgency of Gospel-Centered Preaching”

Shelby Systems Inc. held its annual International Shelby Conference (ISC) in San Antonio, Texas, this past June. The conference brings together current and potential customers who want to learn more about using Shelby’s software at their churches or nonprofit organizations and share ideas with Shelby staff members and other users from across the country. Participants … Continue reading “Learning and Connecting at International Shelby Conference”

In a recent article, Thom Rainer cites five major trends he foresees will impact American churches in the next few years: 1. Our nation will see the emergence of the largest generational mission field in more than a century. According to our current research, the Millennial generation, those born between 1980 and 2000, will have … Continue reading “Five Major Trends”

Want to better understand the generation that started college this fall? Each year Beloit College assembles its Mindset List for that year’s new students, offering insights into the life experience of the emerging generation. This year’s full list can be found online. Here are some of the more interesting characteristics of the Class of 2015: … Continue reading “Getting to Know the Class of 2015”

In James 1:22, the half-brother of Jesus writes, “‘Be doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.’ Why? ‘A doer who acts—this person will be blessed in what he does’” (James 1:25). Engaging exposition that is faithful to Scripture not only will explain the text; it also of biblical and theological necessity will … Continue reading “Sermon Application: How Does It Work?”

Would a rose by any other name really be as sweet? Suppose it was named “Mud” or “Goop”? Would you want to send a dozen red goops to your wife or girlfriend? I’m always interested when people or organizations change their names. I was born James Michael; and until age 12, I went by Jimmy. … Continue reading “Back Page Pulpit: A Goop by Any Other Name?”

First-person application for the preacher can be an unnerving task. How can this generally overworked individual possibly find the time or the occasion to apply what he has studied before the delivery of the sermon? Furthermore, the average preacher speaks several times a week. (For the first 15 years of my ministry, I heralded God’s … Continue reading “The Essential Me-First of Biblical Preaching”