The cross changes everything, but only because there was also a resurrection. On the cross, Jesus paid the price of sin; at the resurrection, He claimed the victory over sin and death.
Easter, a Sunrise Service, and Ezekiel’s vision
This Easter, we look back on the resurrection with faith and look forward to Christ’s return with hope.
What America Needs Most
The recent election of President Donald Trump has caused even the most apathetic voter to take sides. Political factions feverishly debate issues and people seem to protest perpetually, all while the media spins out of control. Political correctness abounds on social media and everyone has an opinion. Christians engage in the harsh and abrasive rhetoric without regret. Young and old … Read More
The Maxim of the Mask
What does an oxygen mask have to do with ministry? Kris Barnett examines why never addressing your own needs can actually hurt your congregation.
Digital Wisdom and Teens
I recently lead a small gathering of 50 or so youth ministers on the topic of technology and its influence on teen behavior. The number one question on everyone’s mind was “How can we help teenagers when it seems like they seem to know more than we do on this topic?” It’s a valid question but it need not be … Read More
Three Ways to Strengthen Unity
One recurring theme throughout the New Testament is unity. Jesus speaks of oneness among His disciples in His high priestly prayer found in John 17:21-23. He prayed, “That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. … Read More
Seeing and Responding to Scripture
When my wife and I had our honeymoon in Plymouth, Mass.—some 14 years ago now—we made the decision to drive the entire way. Now I know a 20-hour car ride on your honeymoon sounds like a bad idea, but it was really quite nice. On the way, we visited places like Hershey, Penn., Amish Country, and New York City. One … Read More
For Those Who Want to Teach Theology
As with any profession, occasionally someone (a student, usually) approach me with a question: how can I do what you do? What they mean, of course, is teach ministry and theology in an academic setting. Normally, I respond with something like, “Great! Stay in school until you finish out, but don’t be an egghead. Serve a church the whole way … Read More
Reading and Leading
Ryan NealDr. Neal earned a BA in Political Science from Texas Tech University. He then pursued theological and ministerial training and is a graduate of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (MDivBL), and the University of Edinburgh, Scotland (MTh; PhD). He is married to Jennifer, and they have four children. Dr. Neal’s teaching and research focuses on the relationship between biblical interpretation … Read More