Those of us that have children under our care—parents, godparents, grandparents, kids’ ministry workers, and more—have been gifted a wonderful opportunity and privilege. We can ignite the spark of wonder in a child’s heart that sets them up for a lifetime of adventurous curiosity into all the things of God and his Word.... continue reading
An early childhood memory of mine is of sitting by a window on a rainy day, watching the drops splash against the pane. Like all normal children, I spent most of my life racing around. But at this particular moment, I was still, and my mind had time to drift. I remember a series of questions popping into my head...... continue reading
As new Christians, we often start out enthusiastic at the idea of calling people to follow King Jesus. We are expectant and joyful. But it can soon lead to deflation. We still try and talk about Jesus. We still invite people to church. But the joy has gone. We have given up even trying anymore. Is the command to make disciples of all nations simply far too ambitious? Let’s take four steps and see what happens when we apply them to Jesus’ command in Matthew 28 v 19 to Go and make disciples of all nations.... continue reading
You may be familiar with Dai Hankey’s lovely trilogy of books: Eric Says Thanks, Eric Says Sorry and Eric Says Please. In each one, a little lad called Eric discovers something epic about God. These stories are great for children who have little or no church background, as well as those from Christian families, as each story starts in the everyday life of Eric and the questions he asks or the trouble he faces.... continue reading
When I hear that from the lips of Jesus, I feel just as weak and overwhelmed as the first eleven disciples standing on the mountain. I’m daunted as I look at the sheer numbers of people who have never heard about Jesus in our world. In fact, come to that, I’m daunted by the number of people who live on my street. The task feels too big.... continue reading
A hard-working pastor, who labours in preaching and teaching, who cares for his people and prays for them, who leads the team that directs the affairs of the church, ought to be in no doubt that he is greatly valued. He ought to be free from crippling financial uncertainty and worries, so that he can give himself uninterruptedly to the noble task entrusted to his care.... continue reading
As a Christian, is it ok for me to watch [insert generic TV show with sex and/or violence]?... continue reading
I want to erase the two words that shut most of our prayers down. Here they are: “Be with…”... continue reading
Finally my professor summoned some courage and said, “Professor Tillich, that wasn’t really the student’s question. Could you answer the question the student actually asked?” The response was quick and withering: “No, because they aren’t asking the right questions.”... continue reading
A pastor’s visits one week included these two. The first was to a home where all was well. Ryan and Steph were prosperous; the home was pleasant; a good car sat on the driveway; the children were being educated in expensive schools; their manners were good; talent abounded.... continue reading