We know what hymn Jesus and his disciples sang at the Last Supper. It was Psalms 116–118. It was a sober song about rejection. That song, however, ended triumphantly because the day of the rejected stone became, for Jesus, the day of his installation as the cornerstone.
Church Life
Most people, even people who might notionally identify as Christians, are not found in Church except at certain times of the year—like Easter! Let’s think about how we, as churches—and how pastors, in particular—can show hospitality to people visiting churches this Easter season.
Easter is a time to reflect on the incredible gift of grace that Jesus has given us. By taking some simple steps, pastors can make sure that they do not miss out on what truly matters at Easter—the good news of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Here are some things pastors should consider when it comes …
Pastor, is your wife weary and worn from ministry life? Does she feel the expectations of others creep up and squeeze the joy out of her? Here are three reminders to you, as a pastor, as you love and cherish your wife.
God tends to give His best gifts in His own ways and in His own time, for His own glory. It pleases Him to reward patience, faithfulness, and trust. Whatever the trials and troubles of your ministry, remember to look at the blessings the Lord has allowed you to experience and the ones he promised …
Let’s consider four common ministry challenges that can tempt pastors and their wives to seek escape and how God helps them through the good news of His Gospel.
Recognize that an eruption of anger is a plea for help. A hug and a prayer are far more effective than a short answer. Give your wife and children permission to place a hand on your side or shoulder, and never turn such a reminder away or allow your heart to greet it with contempt. …
“Tool” is an excellent word for men training to be pastors. As pastors, it is not our job to tell God what kind of “tool” we are. He calls and sends. Our job is to be ready and sharp for when He does call. We want to be useful tools. The two ways to stay …
Old hymns allow us to dig deeper into our faith and add a melody to the life-giving teachings of scripture. Do you need a song of response for baptisms? There’s an old hymn for that. Are you looking for a new Christmas song about the mystery of God becoming man? There’s an old hymn for …
Pastors have the responsibility of caring for their church congregations but rarely receive the same care in return. The command of Acts 20:28 and its order is important — keep watch over yourself and then the flock of God. Keeping watch over our own souls means that we are willing to be cared for, encouraged, …
Pastors are called to serve and slave and save and sacrifice. But we must do so with laughter in our bones and joy in our hearts. We must keep watch “with joy and not groaning” to bless our people.
Healthy short-term missions trips can produce long-term impact on the field and transform participants. Consider the following 10 benefits.
If you are a pastor, never forget the blessing and privilege of serving the Lord. There will be days, no doubt, when you want to throw in the towel, but don’t give up! As Paul writes, “I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in …
Pastoral ministry is hard work with many hardships, disappointments, and reasons to quit. It is easy to get caught up with all the negativity in ministry. However, pastors experience certain joys that others in different vocations may not experience. Here are some to encourage your hearts as you shepherd God’s flock.
People leave churches for many reasons, and your response to their leaving will depend, in part, on why they are going. Remembering that Scripture will help you keep even the most difficult exits in perspective.
Pastors must wisely decide when to overlook and when to confront an offense in the life of the church. Pastors facing confrontation questions should take a “wisdom supplement” by spending regular time in God’s Word with a special focus on Proverbs. In addition, six diagnostic questions can help pastors wisely decide when to confront.
Ken Sande shares how a wave of confessions can bring true, biblical conflict resolution and reconciliation and save an entire church.
Hospitality is often left up to the ladies of the church, and we lean on them to provide it. But hospitality is first the job of the Pastor.
Direct your heart towards God’s gifts so that thanksgiving may overflow to your visitors as you serve them with a thankful heart.
Our flocks need us to set the example of being filled with thanksgiving. We may do this by cultivating gratitude in our hearts, as we give thanks to God for them.
