A cliché among preachers is that you should preach your sermon to yourself before the congregation. I agree with that sentiment, but I will say that it is not easy. At times, I will find myself thoroughly convicted by the biblical text and even by some of the great saints I reference in my illustrations. Such was the case recently … Read More
5 Reasons We Don’t Make Disciples
Do we love God? Do we love people? Do we believe the gospel is essential to salvation? Do we trust the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in sharing the gospel? Do we believe in the power of the gospel and the Word of God? If we answer “Yes” to these questions, we will make disciples.
Green Grass and Growing Disciples
My lawn looks worse than it has in a few years. Thin spots abound and bare spots appear in what was once a carpet-thick plane of bountiful blades. A sickly and yellowish color has usurped the deep, robust green. It is growing unevenly and needs mowing only rarely. This is in spite of summer’s favorable weather. During 2013’s summer deluge … Read More
What Should Pastors Produce?
Some occupations provide clear objectives. Automakers assemble automobiles. Builders build buildings. Chefs cook cuisine. But, what does a pastor produce?