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Bivocational ministry: multiple jobs with one goal

I don’t propose bivocationalism as the only form of pastoral ministry, but I do offer it as a valid model that can reap eternal benefits.

The worrying but still hopeful demographic future of U.S. Christianity

Recent Pew Research data further confirmed Christianity is no longer shrinking in America. Currently, the U.S. is no longer becoming less religious. We’ve reached the end of the rise of the nones.

What do people want most from their leader? Hope

Pastors and other leaders often feel responsible for providing countless benefits to those under their care. But what is it people actually need from those leading them?

5 things to do when God’s plan for your life catches you off guard

It happens. Life s going well, it seems. You’re comfortable where you are. You’re enjoying what you’re doing. As far as you know, you could spend the rest of your life living where you live and doing the work you’re doing.  Then, God unexpectedly changes your plans. Sometimes it happens excitedly, sometimes painfully – but […]

Is your church strategy by design or by default?

Does strategy belong in the church? What came to mind when you read that? For many, strategy within the church context evokes a grim image.

4 vital aspects of balanced small group goals

If you want to know whether balance is important, ask a tightrope walker or a technician who installs new tires on your vehicle. If you want to know whether balance is important, ask a nutritionist who encourages her patients to create balanced, healthy diets. But, if you want to know whether balance is important, you might not want to ask group ministry leaders.

When children stray from the faith

I listened to the burden of a pastor friend of mine who, through their broken heart, shared the story of a child who has strayed from faith. I have many other friends who tell the same story—they’ve devoted their lives to ministry, only to witness a child of their own take steps away from God.

4 markers of the early church: Reclaiming the vision for biblical community

If the first church had a website, the tagline “Together” would have been on brand. The community of faith in its earliest days serves as the standard for every local church going forward. However, pastors today are seeing a deepening apathy toward the value and vitality of biblical community. According to the Greatest Needs of Pastors research, 75% of pastors say people’s apathy or lack of commitment is the most challenging people dynamic they deal with in ministry.

The agents of mission

From the beginning of history, God has worked through agents to carry out His mission. Patrick Schreiner, Associate Professor of New Testament and Biblical Theology at Midwestern Seminary, writes, “[God] enacts His mission and furthers His mission specifically through His people.”

When ministry unexpectedly hurts

Ministry sometimes feels like a slap in the face, often when you least expect it to happen. Sometimes doing God's will still hurts. What do you do when that happens?