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Shadow Side of Mission: Cultivating Redemptive Communities

The urgency and significance of illuminating the shadow side of mission becomes evident when we consider the transformative power and ethical responsibilities associated with our missional calling.

Generational Shifts in Evangelism: Approaches for Today

We need to think innovatively about how to do evangelism in a 21st Century world. Here are some approaches that can help reach generations today. 

‘A High and Holy Honor’—David Platt Shares Backstory, Growth of Secret Church

Dr. Ed Stetzer reached out to his friend David Platt, pastor of McLean Bible Church in Washington, D.C., and the founder of Radical, and asked him to share his heart and passion for Secret Church.

4 More Missional Shifts for Churches in 2024

In part one of this two-part piece, I proposed four missional shifts I believe we need to make in 2024 in how we approach church ministry. In this second part, I give four more of these necessary missional shifts.

4 Missional Shifts for Churches in 2024

Now that the “new year, new me” hype has now waned and we can think seriously about what’s ahead, I want to suggest some shifts I believe churches must begin to make in 2024 in order to thrive.

A Home for the Holidays: Refugees and the Christmas Story

Christmas is the story of Jesus’ arrival. And for those newly arriving to build a life in America, this story is best heard and experienced with those who have built their lives around it, namely the Church.  

Beyond the Decorations: Christmas Reveals the Person and Character of God

The Christmas story teaches us that God understands our own stories. During this season, we celebrate the coming of our Savior and King. The biblical story unfolds the need for a Savior and the promise of his coming.

So You Are Starting Seminary

Here are some thoughts for every student starting seminary this fall—with application for any stage of the seminary journey. 

Shadow Side of Mission: Fostering Learning and Healing in Missions

An important link between our identity as God’s missional people and our participation in God’s mission is the kingdom ethic that gives shape to the shared live of God’s holy, yet imperfect people.

5 Ways We Get Evangelism Wrong and What We Can Do About It

Here are five ways we often get evangelism wrong, along with five ways we can right our perspective on this misunderstood, yet crucially important, practice.

An Inconceivable Challenge: The Story of a Persecuted Pastor in Pakistan

On this International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church, let us remember our brothers and sisters who suffer for their faith in Christ every day, including pastor Eleazar Sidhu in Pakistan.

Shadow Side of Mission: Ethical Considerations for Missional Work

We are called to reach people with the gospel of Jesus Christ. There can be a shadow side to our Great Commission endeavors that requires a shift to consider the social and transformational impact of our mission. 

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.

Michael Martin: How Church Boards Can Help Their Pastors Be Healthy

ECFA president and CEO Michael Martin joins “The Stetzer ChurchLeaders Podcast” to talk about his organization’s new leadership standard and how church boards can help provide pastors greater care and accountability.

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