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9 Challenges to Church Planting

In just a few decades, we’ve witnessed an explosion of interest and engagement in North American church planting. Still, challenges remain.

3 Encouraging Trends I See in the UK’s Churches

My visits to England have allowed opportunities to interact with several UK churches. In my time there, I’ve observed three helpful and encouraging trends I have seen.

Remembering Rick Blackwood: A Megachurch Pastor and Amazing Preacher You Probably Didn’t Know—By His Intent

Rick Blackwood was a pastor and author with a passion for preaching the Bible. He leaves behind his wife, Rhonda, and two daughters, Natalie and Rebecca. 

20 Truths From ‘The Power of One: Reaching Every Person on Earth’

Billy Wilson, president of Oral Roberts University, leads Empower21, which is focused on the future of the Spirit-filled movement. Here are 20 truths from his new book, "The Power of One."

Pentecostals: Their Growth and the Implications for Evangelicalism

I believe the Holy Spirit wants to do a fresh work in each of us, as well as in our churches. I also believe that we have much to learn from Pentecostals.

Pentecostals: How Do They Keep Growing While Other Groups Are Declining?

Throughout the West, many denominations are in a state of plateau or decline, with one consistent exception: Pentecostals.

Juneteenth and the Great Commission

By now, many of us have heard of the holiday Juneteenth, though many Christians still don’t celebrate the day or recognize the fruitful mission work birthed out of the freedom of African American slaves.

Church Journeys: Clear Communication Matters

I often make observations about the churches I visit. Being at Calvary Church in Westlake inspired me to encourage you as you think about connecting with and communicating to those in your congregation and beyond.

Love Where You Live: Evangelism in Disorienting Times

It would be a mistake to view the decline of cultural Christianity in North America as signaling the decline of Christianity as a whole. Nevertheless, the North American church does have unique challenges to confront.

Love Where You Live: Understanding the Mission

When we talk about the missio Dei (Latin for “mission of God”), we are referring to God’s grand effort to reconcile all of creation to himself through the death and resurrection of Jesus the Christ.

How To Tell a Jesus Story

“Jesus Stories” are simple, short retellings about something Jesus said or did in five minutes or less. They are accompanied by open-ended questions that spark discussion.

Public Evangelism in an Age of Relativism

There is no such thing as a neutral ideological vacuum. We must stand for something. And what the new kind of relativistic tolerance is showing is that it is not really tolerant at all. 

Church Planting in the Anglican Tradition– 20 Truths From ‘Word and Sacrament’

Here are 20 insights from my friend Canon Dan Alger's new book, "Word and Sacrament: Ancient Traditions for Modern Church Planting."

Preach the Gospel at All Times — And Use Words

Christians, evangelicals included, seem to love evangelism, as long as someone else is doing it. It’s time for all of us to start preaching our good news again.

Preaching Sermons That Engage Your People and Make an Impact

Preaching is a vital component of Christian worship. In preaching, we proclaim God's Word, calling unbelievers to repentance and faith and believers to spiritual growth.

Church Security: How Do We Keep Our Churches Safe in Today’s America?

As we remember that our hope is secure in God, we must also think through how to keep our people safe. The Nashville shooting is a painful reminder of that.

There Is One Thing Worse Than Being Lost

There is one thing that is actually worse: being lost and knowing that nobody is looking for you. Would this metaphor accurately describe the North American Church?

The Body of Christ and the Temptation of a Crowd

Since it’s now 2023, most of us think that we’re beyond the old understanding of the "church" being a building. We are now more spiritually sophisticated. Or are we?

The Impossibility of Being a Pastor

Every pastor who regularly preaches has wondered, “Did that message make a difference? Will anything happen?” We’re all together in this. But maybe our penchant for "excellence" is holding us back.

20 Truths From ‘Grace Ambassador: Bringing Heaven on Earth’

My friend John Jackson has a new book out. Titled "Grace Ambassador: Bringing Heaven on Earth," Here are 20 key takeaways.

Matt Chandler, Part 2: How Parents Can Make the Most of...

Matt Chandler joins “The Stetzer ChurchLeaders Podcast” to share how parents can use time, moments and milestones to point their children to the goodness of God.

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