Exploring the Power of Immanuel Imagery in Neuroscience Informed Christian Counseling (NICC)

March 6, 2025

In the realm of mental health and spiritual growth, Neuroscience Informed Christian Counseling® (NICC) offers a transformative approach that seamlessly integrates psychological insights with deep spiritual truths. One strategy of NICC is the innovative use of guided imagery techniques, specifically tailored to foster a profound connection with Jesus Christ.

This article delves into the intricacies of NICC’s unique practices, such as Immanuel Imagery, Immanuel Space, and Immanuel Memory. These methods not only facilitate emotional healing but also enhance the participant’s spiritual journey by cultivating a vivid awareness of Jesus’ presence in both memories and imagined safe havens.

Through the exploration of these techniques, we will uncover how NICC equips individuals with emotional and spiritual tools to navigate life’s challenges, deepening their faith and emotional resilience.

NICC Active Ingredient #8 Imagery

Imagery, as an active ingredient in Neuroscience Informed Christian Counseling® (NICC), is a powerful therapeutic tool used to access and transform deeply ingrained emotional memories and patterns. This approach leverages the neuroscience concept of memory reconsolidation, which is the process by which existing memories are recalled and potentially altered when new, mismatching information is introduced during a vulnerable phase of recall.

In NICC, imagery involves the use of vivid, controlled visualizations to create healing scenarios that contradict maladaptive beliefs or painful memories. By engaging the imaginal channel, clients can envision scenes where they receive compassion, understanding, or protection—experiences that might not have occurred in their actual past but that can significantly alter their emotional landscape. In this way, what was always needed in the past is now supplied in the present allowing unresolved trauma to process to completion.

This process often involves guided imagery where the therapist helps the client to imagine scenes in which they are cared for or loved, or where they might respond differently to past traumatic events.

The therapeutic use of imagery in NICC is grounded in the integration of spiritual truths and psychological insights. This is not merely about creating positive thoughts but about entering deeply into the emotional textures of these new experiences, thereby allowing the brain to begin incorporating these into the existing memory networks in ways that are healing and transformative.

For instance, a client might be guided to imagine a scenario where they are shown unconditional love and acceptance by Christ, which directly counters feelings of shame or unworthiness. This not only helps in reprocessing emotional memories but also reinforces the individual’s identity in Christ, aligning with both psychological health and spiritual maturity.

The process of engaging with imagery in NICC serves as a bridge, connecting the client’s psychological and spiritual experiences to foster deep healing and transformation, ultimately guiding them towards thriving as defined by both their faith and psychological well-being.

#8 Imagery Competency Markers

Evocative Imagery (8.1)

This involves using imagery to evoke powerful emotions and insights. Imagery in this context is used to activate parts of the brain associated with emotional and visual processing, helping clients to engage with and transform emotional experiences more deeply. This technique leverages the brain’s ability to simulate experiences as if they are happening in the present, which can be a potent tool for emotional healing and insight.

Imagery Naming (8.2)

Imagery Naming involves using imagery to articulate experience. This process helps clients to crystallize their experiences and emotions, making them more accessible for examination and transformation. It ties into the linguistic processing areas of the brain, facilitating a deeper understanding and integration of the therapy work.

Resource Development (8.3)

This marker focuses on developing internal resources through imagery. Clients are guided to imagine scenarios where they access strength, comfort, or other positive qualities. This practice helps build resilience and a sense of internal support, tapping into the brain’s capacity for adaptive neuroplasticity—where positive, resourceful states can be strengthened through focused attention and practice.

Another Woman Accuses SC Pastor John-Paul Miller of Sexual Assault, Claiming He and His Father Groomed Victims

Stephanie Martin

March 6, 2025

On Wednesday (March 5), a South Carolina woman filed a lawsuit claiming that embattled Pastor John-Paul Miller sexually assaulted her twice between 1999 and 2001. At the time, “Jane Doe #2” was a 14-year-old student and Miller was a 19-year-old teacher at Cathedral Hall Academy, a Christian school operated by Miller’s father, Pastor Reginald “Wayne” Miller.

As defendants, the lawsuit names John-Paul Miller, Reginald Wayne Miller, and their three ministries: All Nations Cathedral Church, Solid Rock Ministries, and Cathedral Hall Academy (CHA). Grounds for the complaint include negligence, civil conspiracy, assault and battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and violating the South Carolina Fair Trade Practices Act.

Editor’s note: This article refers to reports of child sexual assault, which some readers might find triggering and/or disturbing.

According to the 46-page lawsuit filed in Horry County, the father-son pair “presented themselves as devout religious leaders” in Myrtle Beach, “but this image was a lie.” The men used a “religious façade” to engage in “sexual abuse and predatory conduct—often targeting minors,” the suit continues. “They used their positions of power to manipulate and exploit vulnerable victims while concealing their actions from the public.”

Lack of protection for minors was “part of a calculated plan to groom victims,” stated the lawsuit, “while simultaneously gaining the community’s trust and financial support.”

Last month, an anonymous woman (now known as Jane Doe #1) sued John-Paul Miller, accusing him of raping her in 1998, when she was 15, and sexually assaulting her again in 2023.

Second Woman Alleges Sexual Assault by John-Paul Miller, Coverup by His Father

As ChurchLeaders has reported, in April 2024 John-Paul Miller told his South Carolina congregation that his wife, Mica, had died by suicide. Officials concurred with that cause of death, but Mica’s friends and family members alleged she was in an “abusive marriage.”

John-Paul Miller has denied allegations of domestic abuse and threatened to sue anyone who tries to link him to his wife’s death. Protesters frequented Miller’s church, Solid Rock, demanding “Justice for Mica.” Last November, Miller was charged with third-degree assault of a protester. After selling the Solid Rock building for more than $2 million, the pastor reportedly launched a new congregation.

In this week’s court filing, Jane Doe #2 said headlines about Mica Miller’s death caused memories of her own abuse by John-Paul to surface. Enrolling at CHA in 1999 was akin to walking into a “nightmare,” the plaintiff noted, because it “was not a school, it was a trap.”

Brandon Lake Defends Collaboration With Jelly Roll: ‘I Don’t Know What Bible Somebody Is Reading’

Jesse T. Jackson

March 6, 2025

Brandon Lake Jelly Roll — Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll being interviewed by K-LOVE Morning Show host Carlos. Screengrab via YouTube / K-LOVE

Since Brandon Lake collaborated with Jelly Roll on Lake’s hit single “Hard Fought Hallelujah” in February, Lake has helped the Grammy Award-winning country music star, whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord, put his faith journey on full display.

Jelly Roll previously spent two stints in prison for aggravated robbery and intent to distribute illegal drugs. In 2016, he married Alyssa DeFord, who left the sex industry in 2023. Jelly Roll and his wife have full custody of his two children from previous relationships.

In conversations between Jelly Roll and Lake to promote the song, Jelly Roll has been open about his faith and the struggles he has with the church.

The “Son of a Sinner” singer told Lake, “It’s been years since I worshiped the way that I worshiped” to “Hard Fought Hallelujah.” Jelly Roll added that he “needed that record when I heard it.”

During a recent interview with K-LOVE Morning Show’s Carlos, Lake, who is known for creating captivating worship songs, defended his collaboration with Jelly Roll. “I don’t know what Bible somebody’s reading that would hate on a collaboration like this,” he said.

Lake continued, “If you look at Jesus’ life, look who he spent time with. Even the 12 he called were jacked up—you know.”

“My favorite thing I hear is when people go, ‘But then he told them to go and sin no more.’ And I’m like, just like, you quit sinning, Susan,” Jelly Roll chimed in. “When he told you to quit—so you’ve never sinned again, Susan?”

An emotional Jelly Roll told Carlos that when he and Lake started talking, Lake treated him in a way he had wished the church would have.

“[Lake] said to me on the phone everything that I wish the church would have,” Jelly Roll said. “The way he made me feel is like, man, if I felt this way on Sunday when I went to a couple of churches, God knows where my journey would be at right now.” He added, “Maybe the thing is that [if people weren’t] still mad at me for not being where they think I should be, maybe I’d already be there.”

After being asked what he believes the church has gotten wrong, Jelly Roll answered, “Patience.”

‘Relationship Was Special’—Carl Lentz Says He’s ‘Sad That I Broke That Trust’ With Justin Bieber

Jesse T. Jackson

March 6, 2025

Carl Lentz Justin Bieber — (R) Carl Lentz on Mighty Pursuit podcast on Aug. 15, 2024. Screengrab via YouTube / Mighty Pursuit (L) Lou Stejskal, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

During an interview with “Mighty Pursuit” last August, former Hillsong East Coast Pastor Carl Lentz shared his remorse for breaking the trust he had with Grammy Award-winning pop star Justin Bieber.

Lentz founded Hillsong East Coast and pastored the 10,000-person megachurch from 2010 to 2020. The church’s success propelled Lentz into the limelight across both the church world and the celebrity world. Lentz built friendships with Bieber, Selena Gomez, Vanessa Hudgens, Kylie Jenner, Kevin Durant, and Tyson Chandler.

In the fall of 2020, after being exposed for having an extramarital affair, Lentz was fired by Hillsong Church’s then-Global Senior Pastor Brian Houston for what Houston called “leadership issues and breaches of trust, plus a recent revelation of moral failures.”

Lentz famously discipled Bieber and baptized him. In fact, Lentz baptized Bieber in NBA Champion Tyson Chandler’s bathtub after the singer insisted he needed to be baptized immediately after accepting Jesus, and the pools the church used were inaccessible due to crowds hearing of Bieber’s whereabouts. Pastor Judah Smith was also with Lentz and Bieber.

Following his firing, the once prominent pastor figure managed to keep himself and his family out of the public eye before accepting a staff position at Mike Todd’s Transformation Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in March 2023. Lentz later launched a new podcast titled “Lights on With Carl Lentz” in the summer of 2024.

After being asked about the relationship he had with Bieber, Lentz was careful not to provide many details but shared how he failed Bieber and others.

Lentz said:

I feel like what people like Justin that supported us and trusted us, when you are at a certain level of fame, the only thing you have with somebody is trust—that’s all you have. They don’t need money. People don’t need your opportunities, and so when that trust is violated, it’s times 10, because that’s all we had.

“My relationship with him and other people was built purely on trust, so depending on how you held that, it could be really devastating,” Lentz continued. “So I think my relationship with him, I kind of just keep it moving now, because I feel like he and a number of other people were drug into my mess, and I hated that.”

Lentz said that the celebrities he developed friendships with were used and are still used by the media as clickbait to draw attention to stories.

Former SBC Seminary Administrator Dr. Matt Queen Sentenced to 6 Months of House Arrest for Making False Statements to Federal Investigators

Dale Chamberlain

March 6, 2025

Dr. Matt Queen, a former administrator and professor at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, has been sentenced to six months of house arrest, one year of probation, and a $2,000 fine for lying to federal investigators.

Queen pleaded guilty in October to making false statements during an investigation into whether Southwestern had mishandled allegations of sexual assault.

Queen was charged with falsification of records amid the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) probe of Southern Baptist entities regarding their handling of sexual abuse allegations. The investigation of Southwestern began in 2022.

At the time of the investigation, Queen was serving as interim provost for the school.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office alleged that shortly after the DOJ opened its investigation, Southwestern received a report of sexual abuse committed by a student, but the incident was not reported to the DOJ.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office further said that Terri Stovall, who serves as dean of women at the school, created a document in January 2023 that described the failure of Southwestern “to take action regarding the allegation at that time” but that Heath Woolman, then chief of staff, ordered the document destroyed during a meeting with Stovall and Queen.

Queen later produced notes for investigators that he said were from that meeting. The notes conflicted with Stovall’s testimony, and investigators believed them to be falsified.

Queen was placed on administrative leave from Southwestern in June 2023. He subsequently resigned and then assumed the role of pastor of Friendly Avenue Baptist Church in Greensboro, North Carolina, in February 2024.

Queen was indicted in May 2024.

“My integrity is everything to me, and I will cling to that integrity and seek to be vindicated by God and man,” Queen said at the time.

Work Smarter, Not Harder

Full Strength Network

March 6, 2025

We’ve all heard the phrase, “Work smarter, not harder.” Let’s take a look at five ways you can thrive as a pastor by working smarter:

1. Start with ‘why.’

Starting by clarifying the “why” in your ministry is smarter because determining why your church exists leads to better decisions regarding what you should do and how you should accomplish it. Your “why” determines your filter and focuses your energy. Dr. Stephen Elliott, national superintendent of the Wesleyan Church of Canada, believed the church he planted in Kanata Ontario in the 1980s existed to reach 10% of the community for Christ. He believed this was their “why.” By the time Steve departed, the church had grown to over 1,400 people. The “why” determined what to do and helped them determine how to get there.
→ What is the “why” of your church?

2. Work on ministry, not in ministry.

In his groundbreaking book, “The E-Myth Revisited,” Michael Gerber presents three categories of workers: technician, manager, and entrepreneur (29). Technicians love implementing the skills in which they are trained. Managers value order and enjoy finding ways to keep everything running efficiently. Entrepreneurs are catalytic dreamers who propel organizations into the future. I re-cast Gerber’s categories as church roles. Technicians become chaplains, managers are administrative ministers, and entrepreneurs missional pastors. Every church needs all three, but if you want to work smart it’s imperative to adopt the mindset of a missional pastor/entrepreneur and work to improve the overall ministry system rather than merely managing current protocols or practicing your specialized ministry skill set. Missional pastors work “on” their ministries more than they work “in” their ministries.
→ Are you working “on” your ministry more than “in” your ministry?

3. Ask ‘who’ before you ask ‘what’ or ‘how.’

Two books that emphasize asking “who” are Jim Collins’ “Good to Great” and Benjamin Hardy and Dan Sullivan’s “Who Not How.” Collins recommends that leaders operate with a “first who, then what” mindset (42). Once you know your “why,” it is time to pursue your “who.” When I was pastoring a church with a core of middle-aged and senior adults, we determined if the church was going to continue being relevant in the city, we could only do it with some younger “whos.” I learned this the hard way because I continued to engage experienced older leaders who I thought would appeal to young people. Eventually, we had to sacrifice experience and hire younger leaders. These “whos” led the charge and attracted other young people. Suddenly, we were relevant with the next generation in our community.
→ Are you asking “Who” before “how” or “what” in your church?

4. Understand organizations as starfish and spiders.

The COVID-19 pandemic and advancements in digital technology have launched a phenomenon of church decentralization which we are still attempting to navigate. To work smart as pastors, we must adapt to the strongest method for accomplishing our mission. Centralized organizations are like a spider whose head controls all the legs. Decentralized organizations are like starfish with no central authority. If one section is cut off, a new section grows in its place. Churches and denominations undergo cycles of centralization (spiders) and decentralization (starfish). These concepts, as described in the book, “The Starfish and the Spider,” are not mutually exclusive. Every organization should recognize which leadership style should prevail to best meet the needs of the season.
→ Do you understand which style, centralization or decentralization, should be emphasized in the next season of your church?

5. Pray and act in a 5C cycle.

Entrepreneurial coach Dan Sullivan describes a cycle of action for leaders. He states that leaders whose organizations grow go through a cycle of Commitment, Courage, Competence, and Confidence. To work smart as missional ministry leaders, we need to understand that when we want to see our church or ministry grow, we will pray for these four Cs and appeal to God for guidance through the process. I add a new C of “Calling” on the front end that draws on a biblical perspective. As faith leaders, we understand God calls us to undertake missions by faith, which are impossible to accomplish on our own. Following God’s call, we prayerfully commit our way to the Lord. Thirdly, we ask for courage, which is vital during this period when we are most likely plagued by doubt. Think of Joshua immediately following the death of Moses, David being pursued by Saul, or Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. The fourth C stands for competence. In this stage we reach a breakthrough and achieve the objective. In the fifth and final stage we attain confidence in the successful fulfillment of the original calling. After achieving confidence we are ready to listen for the next calling.
→ Do you understand where you are in this 5 C’s cycle in your ministry?

This article originally appeared here.

Trump Administration Must Produce Status Report on Refugee Resettlement, Judge Orders

Aleja Hertzler-McCain and Jack Jenkins

March 6, 2025

Trump Refugee Report — The Rev. Carol Jensen, left, wears a hat mimicking the Statue of Liberty as the Rev. Emillie Binja, a former refugee from Congo, speaks during a rally outside U.S. District Court after a federal judge blocked President Donald Trump’s effort to halt the nation’s refugee admissions system, Feb. 25, 2025 in Seattle. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

(RNS) — One week after blocking the efforts of President Donald Trump’s administration to shutter the refugee admissions system, a federal judge in Washington state ordered the government to produce a status report by Monday (March 10) on its compliance with his ruling.

Speaking during an emergency hearing Tuesday in Seattle, U.S. District Judge Jamal Whitehead agreed with a suggestion by lawyers representing faith-based refugee resettlement organizations that the government produce a “status report” regarding an injunction issued last week that should have restarted the refugee admissions program.

“I am going to order the government to issue a status report,” Whitehead said, adding that he also supports a “joint status report,” allowing the plaintiffs to weigh in on “compliance.”

Asked directly by the judge whether the U.S. State Department or the Department of Homeland Security has once again begun processing refugee admission applications or entries, August Flentje, a lawyer representing the federal government, said there were “directions to resume” that “went out as soon as this court’s order (was) issued,” but added, “I don’t have any further information on the details there.”

The hearing in the case, known as Pacito v. Trump, comes in the wake of Whitehead’s Feb. 25 ruling, which sided with Church World Service, HIAS, Lutheran Community Services Northwest and individual refugees and their families in an effort to halt the president’s Jan. 20 executive order suspending the refugee program.

In his ruling from the bench, Whitehead said the president’s actions amounted to a “nullification of congressional will.”

However, the day after the judge’s ruling, the Trump administration sent out termination notices to the 10 refugee resettlement organizations in the U.S. Seven of those organizations are faith-based, and three — HIAS, Church World Service and Lutheran Community Services Northwest, an affiliate of Global Refuge — have joined nine individual plaintiffs in the lawsuit.

Lawyers for the faith groups called the emergency hearing to discuss the termination notices, with the judge raising questions about the government’s timing.

“It’s a remarkable coincidence to me that the termination notices would be sent within 24 hours of the court’s preliminary injunction,” the judge said, speaking to the government’s attorney.

Lawyers for the government suggested the timing was due to a different lawsuit, but the judge appeared skeptical.

“The timing of the government’s decision to terminate the contracts of the resettlement agencies just one day after the court issued its preliminary injunction raises serious concerns about whether these actions are designed to circumvent the court’s ruling,” Whitehead said at the end of the hearing.

In court, Flentje argued that because the Trump administration had not suspended two overseas contracts — with the United Nations’ International Organization For Migration and Church World Service’s Resettlement Support Center Africa — the administration was leaving grants in place “to facilitate refugee entries and admission to the U.S. at this point” and that the government could comply with the preliminary injunction without working with the refugee resettlement organizations.

Chinese Government Boasts About Increased Persecution in 2024

Persecution.org

March 6, 2025

In statements on social media and state-owned media platforms, China is celebrating an increase in government persecution of religious minorities in 2024.

The Chinese government views religious freedom as a threat to the exclusive loyalty it believes is owed to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which rules the country, and broadly labels non-state religious groups as cults regardless of their actual beliefs.

“China’s public security authorities intensified efforts to dismantle cult organizations in 2024,” the Global Times, a media outlet run by the CCP, reported last month. “They have worked to curb the growth and spread of cult organizations, mitigating potential threats to national political security and maintaining social stability.”

The word rendered as “cult” in the Global Times report is xie jiao, an amorphous term apparently dating back to the Ming Dynasty. It was used to designate movements or beliefs deemed anti-government or that failed to comply with the strict principles of the CCP.

In a statement on the Chinese messaging app and social media platform WeChat, China’s Ministry of Public Security boasted of increased spending on technology and manpower to combat independent religious organizations in a repressive campaign that has included crackdowns on the independent Christian house church movement.

China is known to have forced abortions on its citizens, sterilized women without their consent, and murdered religious minorities to sell their organs on the black market. Christian home churches are an attempt to escape government scrutiny, but even they are often raided and their members arrested on charges of working against the interests of the state.

China is a world leader in the use of technology to surveil and repress its citizens. While the full extent of its surveillance apparatus is unknown, research has shown that it operates a system that aims to track every citizen’s movement to gain insight into their loyalty to the CCP. From mundane details like what a person wears to larger observations like who they associate with, the system works to track and understand the loyalty of each citizen.

Chinese government officials use the data captured by this system to track and control those it deems a danger to the state. Notably, this includes anybody associated with the unregistered house church movement and anyone else who might desire to practice religion outside the confines of the state-run institutions.

This article originally appeared here.

How to Select the Best Church Translation System

Duke Taber

March 6, 2025

church translation system — Adobe Stock #93886082

Are you looking to provide an audio translation of your worship services? Well, you have come to the right place. This article will help you decide which is the best church translation system for your church.

Now before I get started let me get something out of the way right away. There is no product on the market today that will do this without a human translator. There is a prototype out there, but so far, nothing has been released to the general consumer market.

However, that doesn’t mean that with a little ingenuity and a dedicated volunteer, you cannot serve the people in your congregation and community with language translation into their native tongue.

I have included links to Amazon for the products that I mention. I have found that it is a better use of my time to use Amazon rather than spending hours driving around shopping for tech. I spend 15 minutes buying on Amazon, and in 2 days it shows up on my doorstep. I can use the time saved for study, prayer, or visitation.

Now for those of you that want to find what you need and don’t need to research this topic, here are the products that I am recommending.

How Does a Church Translation System Work?

The best church translation system is pretty straightforward. You have three main parts.

The headset microphone that the translator wears when translating your services.
The translation transmitter that the translator’s microphone is hooked to that transmits the language translations to the people.
The translation receivers and headsets that are worn by the people receiving the translation.

The person translating your worship services needs to be able to hear what is being said. Either they are located in the sanctuary at the sound system booth, or they are in a soundproof translation booth that has an audio feed to their booth.

They then take what is being said and translate it into the language of the people that are listening to them. They speak into the headset microphone, and it is broadcast to the people.

The people who are listening place either headphone over their ears or earbuds in their ears. They can adjust the volume control to their comfort level.

If you have multiple languages being translated, then you can get translation systems that will broadcast on different frequencies so your translator of language one can translate for one group of people and a different translator can translate language 2 to another group of people. You can get systems that will handle up to 6 separate languages.

Questions To Ask Before Buying Translation Equipment

How many people will be receiving a translation service?
How many languages need to be translated?
Where will your translator/s be located? Will they be In the sanctuary? Alternatively, at the sound booth? Will they be found in a separate room?
If you have more than one language being translated, how many receivers do you need for each group?
Is our translation system going to be portable or stationary?

How To Choose The Best Church Translation System

Most of us do not need a fancy wireless translation system. We are only trying to translate sermons and worship services. We are not translating private information or trying to broadcast over long distances.

RELATED: Best AED for Church

Here are a few things to look for when choosing a translation system for your church.

Fm or Infrared Translation Devices

Unless you need to translate services for over six different languages, or you are translating private information that could involve privacy issues, you do not need an infrared system.

Infrared systems are more designed for extensive translation services, or for maintaining privacy.

Analog or Digital Signal

Once again the need for digital is overrated. Most systems come with a wide range of frequencies to choose from so there is no problem with finding a clear signal. If and when digital infrared technology comes down in price, then maybe there would be a need to switch to digital. However, the price advantage with analog makes it a wiser investment for a church.

Fixed or Portable Translation Systems

Are you a church plant? Do you have to set up and tear down each Sunday? If so then you will want a system that is quickly set up and can be stored in a travel case. If not, then this is not as important.

Government Compliance And Regulations

All the systems I have recommended comply with FCC regulations. If you are in another country besides the United States, then you might want to check your local rules about transmitting FM signals.

Single Or Multi-Channel Interpretation Equipment

Most churches have just one language that needs to be translated. However, there are times when you need to translate English into more than one alternative language. For each language you need to translate your services into, you will need a transmitter for that language or a channel that your transmitter will let you use to control which language goes to which receivers.

See Page Two for our findings on the best church translation system . . .

4 Creative Ways to Pray With Your Small Group

Jackie Van Hook

March 6, 2025

Prayer is a vital part of every small group gathering. It is also a part that can sometimes become routine, especially if your group prays the same way every time. But there are creative ways to pray with your small group.

4 Creative Ways to Pray with Your Small Group

1. Go for a Prayer Walk in your neighborhood(s)

In addition to praying for those right in your neighborhood, you’ll reap some other benefits, such as getting exercise, fresh air, and beautiful scenery. A prayer walk offers a nice change of scenery from the usual room where your group usually gathers and prays, and is a great opportunity to pray for specific people (your neighbors) to come to know Christ. During your prayer walks, you can pray for specific opportunities to see and meet a need in their lives; for open doors and open hearts! A prayer walk can also be used to spread some encouragement (such as crafting stones with Scriptures on them, or simple words such as peace, love, joy, hope, faith, and leaving them by mailboxes as you walk and pray). Prayer walks can also turn into an outreach opportunity by sharing with people you pass by that you are praying for them, asking if there is anything specific you can pray for them. You could also extend invitations to join you at church or your small group one night.

RELATED: Small Group Discipleship

2. Community Prayer

Challenge your small group members to find out what is happening within their local communities – what trials are people facing, what are the needs of the people around you? Ask that each group member come to your group with at least one prayer/need. Compile a group list of these prayers and needs. That list will be the focus of your group’s prayer time. Ask for the Spirit’s help in identifying how God might want to use your group to love, encourage, and meet the needs of those around you. Create a follow-up plan, as the Spirit leads.

How the Church Actively Involves Those Who Suffer Trauma

Steve Midgley

March 5, 2025

Trauma has been called “the word of the decade”—it is a frequent topic in the media and increasingly evident in everyday speech. Many, however, feel confused about what trauma really means. And, perhaps because of that confusion, our churches often don’t respond well to those who have experienced trauma.

Some, either because they find trauma confusing and complicated or because they are fearful of moving toward those who have been so badly hurt, end up doing nothing to help. Others, out of a misplaced confidence, overestimate their ability to be agents of healing.

There are better responses that we can make—responses that are shaped by a humility that seeks to understand and by a grace that is driven by the gospel. Here are three suggestions to help us.

1. Be eager for understanding

Trauma involves severe suffering. It’s been described as a “brush with death.” In many forms of trauma, it is evil that comes near. When we read the Book of Job, we learn that Job’s suffering was in fact satanic, though, strikingly, nothing in the book suggests that he ever knew that himself. There is a mystery in suffering that we will never fathom. There is value in trying to understand the experience of trauma, but we will never comprehend everything about the causes and impact of severe suffering. We are simply trying to recognise more of the many ways such suffering affects a person. Growing in understanding will help us to avoid responses that, despite our best intentions, may prove less than helpful.

As we read the Book of Job, we see the isolation Job felt. We read about his doubts, his spiritual agonies, his anxiety, and the nightmares that plague him. Past trauma often produces feelings of shame and relational isolation. It often leads to anxiety and a kind of hyper-arousal that leaves a person sensitive to every suggestion of threat. Often this also means that people will avoid anything that reminds them of the awful experience they suffered in the past.

It seems obvious that, in our churches, we should want to care for those who have experienced these terrible kinds of suffering. Knowing more about the impact of trauma will help us with doing so.

2. Be eager for involvement

It’s possible to come at the experience of trauma in a way that assumes it’s the church’s job to work out what people need and then the church’s job to deliver it. That begins to sound a little like “we know what’s best for you.” Since many identify helplessness as a central element in the experience of trauma, it’s not hard to see how such an attitude can backfire.

Much better to see those in our communities who have faced severe suffering as people from whom we have much to learn. Suffering is, after all, frequently identified as a means by which God gives us growth. James speaks of the perseverance that comes through the experience of trials (James 1:2-4) and how that perseverance leads to maturity. The apostle Paul says something similar—suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope (Romans 5:3-4). Such growth takes time and is invariably hard-won. Those on that journey usually have much to teach us about honest engagement with the Lord.

We should be eager to engage those who have faced trauma. Rather than come at this with an attitude that is thinking in terms of “projects to solve,” we’d do much better to think in terms of “people to involve.” God makes clear that “to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). It sometimes seems as if we imagine this only becomes true after someone has stopped struggling with their trauma. But it is always true. How each person is best involved and in what way their gifts can be best used will need conversation and wisdom, but we shouldn’t gaze past that.

‘My Face Pops Into Their Mind As They’re Hearing Scriptures’—Jonathan Roumie Tells Tucker Carlson What It’s Like Being Recognized in Public

Jesse T. Jackson

March 5, 2025

Jonathan Roumie Tucker Carlson The Chosen — Jonathan Roumie on "The Tucker Carlson Show." Screengrab via X / @TuckerCarlson

Actor Jonathan Roumie, who is best known for playing the role of Jesus in the critically acclaimed series “The Chosen,” recently sat down with conservative commentator Tucker Carlson to discuss topics relating to Roumie’s faith and career.

One of the questions Carlson asked Roumie during their nearly 90-minute conversation was what it’s like being recognized in public for playing Jesus.

“I’ve been on television for 30 years,” Carlson told Roumie. “[And] I’ve never experienced anything like what you experienced, for example, in my house last night. People are very intense when they see you. It’s bound up in their feelings for you, but also their feelings for Jesus.” Carlson then asked, “What’s that like?”

Roumie responded, “I give God all the credit. I give Jesus the credit.”

He then continued by sharing an example of when he was once Russell Brand’s stand-in: “Like my buddy Russell Brand, like I was once his stand-in. I feel like I’m Jesus’ stand-in—Jesus is the star and I’m his stand-in.”

“Without getting too personal, it’s got to affect your life,” Carlson said. “Like maybe not all positive.”

Roumie shared that, due to his popularity, he has to disguise himself from time to time while he’s out doing day-to-day activities, like going to the grocery store.

“In some parts of the country I got to go into [a grocery] with the hood and glasses. And in other parts, especially the coastal cities like New York and L.A., it’s just another day,” Roumie said.

Free Sermon Kit: Bring your church and community into the Upper Room this Easter

“It can be interesting I think because of who I’m playing,” Roumie explained. “Because oftentimes, [there is] this front-loaded relationship that they already have with Jesus, and then I become the stand-in. Like the face of that relationship.”

‘Would I Ever Wear a Skirt’ That ‘Short’?—Candace Cameron Bure Talks Modesty With Her Daughter

Janna Firestone

March 5, 2025

Candace Cameron Bure Modesty — Candace Cameron Bure on her podcast, Season 9, Episode 4. Screengrab via YouTube / @candacecbure

Christian actor, producer, and advocate Candace Cameron Bure continues to discuss “girls under pressure” in her ninth season of the “Candace Cameron Bure Podcast.” The multigenerational cast dove into the topics of fashion and modesty, hot topics for today’s women.

“That word gets such a bad rap,” said Candace, referring to the word “modesty.”

Candace Cameron Bure Loves ‘Little Steps of Growth’ When Her Daughter Navigates Modesty

Natasha Bure, Candace’s daughter, and “The JWLKRS Podcast” host Allie Schnacky joined Candace to talk about “life’s challenges, celebrations, and everything in between.” In the podcast episode, the trio were transparent as they discussed how a love of fashion and modesty are interwoven.

“True beauty comes from within,” says the episode description. “What does it mean to dress in a way that reflects Christ rather than seeking validation from others?”

“How do you handle the pressure of fashion choices?” the description asks. “It’s not just about trends but a reflection of creativity and the heart.”

Modesty “is a really good word,” argued Candace. “But, it can be used to hurt people. It can be used to shame people.”

Schnacky offered her perspective that “fashion and modesty are two completely different things.” She said that fashion is her style, “what I choose to wear” that “best represents the personality that God created me with,” while “modesty is more like a heart posture.”

Schnacky said, “I can be fully clothed from head to toe and still be immodest if my heart posture is to seek attention and approval from people.”

“When I dressed a certain way, I presented myself differently,” she reflected.

Natasha said she identifies her underlying motivation while choosing an outfit. She needs to take a step back and re-evaluate her decision when she’s “wearing this because I want attention” rather than “wearing this because it makes me feel more confident, and I feel empowered.”

“On my social media, I would say I’m a fairly fashionable gal,” said Natasha. “But, in real life, I look otherwise.” She described her approach to getting dressed, reflecting how she’s “vibing” with each day.

The trio shared about times they were judged by appearance—by what they wore.

Schnacky said that she “was revealing a lot more skin than I do now” when she started a TikTok. “I was doing it out of a place of seeking approval from people.”

“I feel like people were just so confused,” said Natasha, referring to the comments she received about the clothes she used to wear. “The outfits that I was wearing at the time were so opposite” of her values.

Candace started a women’s clothing line that combined her love of fashion and desire to offer empowering options that weren’t too revealing.

“I started that clothing line because I love fashion,” said Candace. “I really do!”

Church History: A Journey Through the Key Moments That Shaped Christianity

Staff

March 5, 2025

Church history is far more than just a collection of past events. It’s a powerful narrative of faith, perseverance, conflict, and transformation. The story of Christianity is built on key moments that have shaped not only the Church but also the world. From its humble beginnings in Jerusalem to the global presence it has today, understanding church history is vital to appreciating the legacy of Christianity.

Christianity didn’t spring up overnight; it evolved, often in response to trials, controversies, and the changing needs of its followers. The journey through church history is marked by significant events, theological debates, and the rise of influential leaders who helped steer the Church into the modern era. Join us as we explore the major moments that have shaped the Christian faith over the centuries.

The Birth of the Church: The Apostolic Age

Church history begins with the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. After His crucifixion and resurrection, the disciples spread His message throughout the Roman Empire, marking the beginning of what we now call the Apostolic Age. This was a time when the early church was defined by the apostles’ direct teachings, missionary journeys, and the challenges of spreading a new faith in a hostile world.

Pentecost: The event that truly marked the birth of the Church was the day of Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended on the apostles, empowering them to speak in tongues and preach boldly. This day is often considered the official birth of the Christian Church.
Paul’s Missionary Journeys: The Apostle Paul became one of the most influential figures in spreading Christianity beyond Jewish communities to Gentile (non-Jewish) populations. His letters, which form a significant portion of the New Testament, helped lay the theological foundation of early Christianity.

The Rise of Persecution

As Christianity spread, it faced increasing opposition from both the Jewish authorities and the Roman Empire. Christians were persecuted for their refusal to worship Roman gods or acknowledge the emperor as divine.

The Roman Empire’s Reaction: Initially, Christianity was seen as a sect of Judaism, but as it grew, it attracted Roman attention. Emperor Nero famously blamed Christians for the burning of Rome in 64 A.D., and many were martyred in brutal ways.
The Early Martyrs: The martyrdom of early Christians, such as Stephen (the first Christian martyr) and later figures like Polycarp and Perpetua, played a significant role in the expansion of Christianity. These individuals inspired countless others to embrace the faith, even in the face of death.

The Council of Nicaea and the Formation of Orthodoxy

The 4th century marked a turning point in church history. Christianity, once persecuted, became the official religion of the Roman Empire. The conversion of Emperor Constantine and his Edict of Milan in 313 A.D. granted Christians the freedom to worship openly. Constantine’s reign also ushered in a new era of theological development.

The Nicene Creed: In 325 A.D., Constantine called for the Council of Nicaea to address growing divisions within Christianity, particularly over the nature of Christ. The Nicene Creed, which emerged from the council, became the standard statement of Christian belief, affirming the divinity of Christ and the doctrine of the Trinity.
Arian Controversy: One of the central debates at Nicaea was the Arian controversy, which questioned whether Jesus was of the same substance as God the Father. The council condemned Arius’ teachings, marking a significant moment in the development of Christian orthodoxy.

The Great Schism: East vs. West

By the 11th century, church history saw one of its most significant divisions—the Great Schism between the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church. This split arose from a complex mix of theological disagreements, political conflicts, and cultural differences.

The Filioque Controversy: One of the main theological disputes that contributed to the schism was the disagreement over the phrase “and the Son” in the Nicene Creed. The Western Church added this phrase to describe the procession of the Holy Spirit, while the Eastern Church rejected it, leading to a rift that would take centuries to heal.
Political Tensions: The power struggles between the Papacy in Rome and the Patriarchate of Constantinople also played a significant role. The crowning of Charlemagne as Holy Roman Emperor by the Pope in 800 A.D. furthered tensions between East and West.

7 Essential Principles of Biblical Hermeneutics for Understanding Scripture

Staff

March 5, 2025

Understanding the Bible can be challenging. With various literary styles, historical contexts, and theological themes, interpreting Scripture correctly requires careful study. This is where Biblical Hermeneutics, the art and science of interpretation, comes in. Applying sound hermeneutical principles helps believers uncover the true meaning of God’s Word and avoid misinterpretation. Here are seven essential principles to guide you in studying Scripture effectively.

7 Essential Principles of Biblical Hermeneutics

1. Context is Key

One of the most fundamental principles of Biblical Hermeneutics is understanding the context. A verse or passage should never be interpreted in isolation. Instead, consider:

Immediate Context – Read the surrounding verses to understand the flow of thought.
Book Context – Identify the overarching theme of the book in which the verse is found.
Biblical Context – Compare Scripture with Scripture to ensure consistency.
Cultural Context – Consider historical and cultural factors that influenced the text.

Failing to recognize context often leads to misinterpretation and doctrinal errors.

2. Scripture Interprets Scripture

The Bible is the best commentary on itself. Since it is divinely inspired, it carries a consistent message throughout. When interpreting a difficult passage:

Look for clearer passages that address the same topic.
Use cross-references to compare similar themes.
Ensure your interpretation aligns with the overall message of Scripture.

This principle safeguards against taking verses out of context or imposing personal opinions on the text.

3. Recognize Literary Genres

The Bible contains various literary styles, each requiring a unique interpretative approach:

Historical Narrative (Genesis, Acts) – Report events factually.
Poetry (Psalms, Proverbs) – Use figurative language and parallelism.
Prophecy (Isaiah, Revelation) – Contains symbolic and future-oriented language.
Epistles (Romans, Ephesians) – Letters with doctrinal and practical teachings.

Identifying the genre helps prevent literal misapplications of figurative passages or missing deeper meanings in symbolic texts.

4. Understand the Original Languages

While English translations are valuable, the Bible was originally written in Hebrew (Old Testament) and Greek (New Testament). Some words carry richer meanings in their original language.

Greek Example: The word “love” in Greek can be agape (unconditional love) or phileo (brotherly love).
Hebrew Example: The word “peace” (shalom) implies completeness, not just absence of conflict.

Using tools like concordances, lexicons, and interlinear Bibles can provide deeper insights.

Additionally, understanding grammatical structures in Hebrew and Greek can impact interpretation. For instance, verb tenses in Greek, such as the aorist or perfect tense, convey different nuances that may not always be evident in English translations.

5. Consider Historical and Cultural Background

Understanding the cultural and historical backdrop of a passage enhances interpretation. For example:

Jesus’ parables often used agricultural references familiar to His audience.
Paul’s letters addressed specific issues in early church communities.
Jewish customs and Roman laws influenced many biblical events.

Studying historical sources, archaeological findings, and commentaries can enrich your comprehension of Scripture.

It is also helpful to consider the worldview of the original audience. Ancient Near Eastern cultures had different perspectives on kingship, covenant relationships, and law, which influenced how biblical texts were written and understood. Recognizing these perspectives allows for a deeper grasp of the intended meaning.

10 Key Concepts of Systematic Theology Every Christian Should Know

Staff

March 5, 2025

Understanding God and His Word is essential for every believer. Systematic Theology helps Christians organize biblical truths into clear, logical categories, making it easier to grow in faith. By studying these key doctrines, we can deepen our knowledge of God, strengthen our beliefs, and apply them to our daily lives. A strong theological foundation equips us to answer tough questions, defend our faith, and develop a closer relationship with God.

10 Key Concepts of Systematic Theology

1. The Doctrine of God (Theology Proper)

At the heart of Systematic Theology is the study of God Himself. This includes:

God’s attributes – His omniscience, omnipotence, omnipresence, and more.
The Trinity – One God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
God’s will and sovereignty – His perfect plan governing the universe.

God’s nature is beyond full human comprehension, but He has revealed Himself through Scripture. The more we understand His character—His holiness, justice, love, and mercy—the more we can trust and worship Him in spirit and truth.

2. The Doctrine of Scripture (Bibliology)

God has revealed Himself through the Bible, His inspired and authoritative Word. Key points include:

Inspiration – The Bible is God-breathed and without error.
Authority – Scripture is the ultimate guide for faith and practice.
Illumination – The Holy Spirit helps believers understand and apply God’s Word.

The Bible is not just another book; it is the very Word of God. Through careful study and meditation, we learn how to live according to His will. By reading Scripture daily, we grow in wisdom and are strengthened against false teachings.

3. The Doctrine of Christ (Christology)

Jesus Christ is central to Christianity. This area of Systematic Theology covers:

His divinity – Jesus is fully God and fully man.
His atonement – His death on the cross paid for sin.
His resurrection – Victory over death, securing eternal life for believers.

The person and work of Jesus Christ are foundational to our salvation. His perfect life, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection give believers hope. By studying Christology, we grow in our love and devotion to our Savior.

4. The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit (Pneumatology)

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the life of believers. This doctrine includes:

The Spirit’s role – Conviction of sin, regeneration, and sanctification.
Spiritual gifts – Abilities given to believers for building up the church.
The indwelling of the Spirit – The Holy Spirit lives in every Christian.

The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live holy lives, guides us into truth, and provides comfort in difficult times. Through His work, we bear spiritual fruit and grow in godliness.

5. The Doctrine of Humanity (Anthropology)

Understanding human nature helps us grasp our need for salvation. This doctrine teaches:

Creation in God’s image – Humans reflect God’s character.
The fall – Sin entered the world through Adam and Eve.
Total depravity – Humanity is completely affected by sin and in need of redemption.

Despite our fallen state, God’s image is still present in us. This truth reminds us of our worth and the need for redemption through Christ.

6. The Doctrine of Sin (Hamartiology)

Sin separates us from God and necessitates salvation. Key teachings include:

The nature of sin – A rebellion against God’s law.
Original sin – The sinful nature inherited from Adam.
The consequences – Death and eternal separation from God.

Understanding sin helps us appreciate the depth of God’s grace and the necessity of salvation. Recognizing our sinful nature leads us to repentance and transformation through Christ.

Lysa TerKeurst Shares Astonishing Update to Her ‘Bible Man’ Story From Over 20 Years Ago

Jessica Lea

March 5, 2025

For years, author and ministry leader Lysa TerKeurst has been sharing a story of how God led her to give her personal Bible to a man she met traveling on an airplane. Last week, she got an unexpected update to that story while she was in the San Antonio area on her Trust Again Tour.

“When I see God’s hand of faithfulness behind me in a previous experience, it can fuel me for where I’m at right now,” TerKeurst told attendees of a one-night Trust Again Tour event at Riverside Church in Denver March 3. “Because the same God that did it then is fully capable of doing it again. The same God that did it then is fully capable of doing it again. Let me tell you about one of those situations that has so fueled my heart.”

TerKeurst told the crowd that a few nights prior she was just about to kick off her event in San Antonio when a woman on her team came to her and said, “Lysa, you are never going to believe what just happened.”

“Do you remember that story, Lysa, from 20 years ago when you were on a plane, and you were reading your Bible and a man sat down beside you and started asking you questions?” the woman asked.

Lysa TerKeurst Recaps ‘Bible Man’ Story

Lysa TerKeurst is president and chief visionary officer of Proverbs 31 Ministries and the author of several New York Times bestsellers, including “Good Boundaries and Goodbyes,” “Forgiving What You Can’t Forget,” and “It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way.”

Last year, TerKeurst published “I Want to Trust You, but I Don’t: Moving Forward When You’re Skeptical of Others, Afraid of What God Will Allow, and Doubtful of Your Own Discernment.” She appeared on “The Stetzer ChurchLeaders Podcast” in October, where she shared with Dr. Ed Stetzer and Daniel Yang what she has learned about trusting God and others after having had her trust deeply broken.

TerKeurst’s March 3 event included a Q&A for VIPs prior to the main session. The main session featured two messages from TerKeurst, as well as worship from Tasha Layton. Approximately 1,000 women were in attendance, not counting a number of men who were also in the audience.

At the beginning of her main speaking session, TerKeurst recapped the story of meeting the man on the plane, which she has told elsewhere, including on her blog.

TerKeurst said she had gotten on the plane feeling tired from speaking, and she opened her Bible partly to avoid talking to anyone around her. But a man sitting next her was intrigued by the fact she was reading the Bible and asked her about it. “I really, really love God. And so that’s why I’m eager to read his Word,” TerKeurst told him.

‘Ninja,’ Twitch’s Top Streamer, Proclaims to Millions That ‘Jesus Is King’

Stephanie Martin

March 5, 2025

Tyler Blevins, known online as “Ninja,” took time during a recent video game stream to share his Christian faith—and to advise listeners about having such important conversations with others.

Blevins, 33, has the most-watched Twitch channel, with more than 19 million followers. Even more people—almost 24 million—subscribe to his YouTube channel. Now viewers who watch Ninja defeat on-screen enemies have also heard him boldly proclaim, “Jesus is King.”

Blevins was candid about his faith but nonjudgmental of others. “Even if you don’t think [Jesus is King], don’t judge me for it, and I won’t judge you for it,” he said.

Streamer Tyler ‘Ninja’ Blevins: We Need To Talk About Faith

Faith-sharing should feel natural, Tyler Blevins said. “This is just about life, when you’re talking to somebody and you’re having a conversation. That’s an important conversation, right? There’s two sides to it, definitely.” He added, “When you’re talking to someone, don’t talk to that person to change their mind…You’re just talking to them, right? And if you end up changing their mind, that’s great.”

Blevins emphasized to viewers that he won’t ever “push anything on you guys.” He told viewers, “I love you all no matter what. And in the chat, we respect all religions, all people…Someone has no religion? We love everybody, dude.”

According to Blevins, “The most important thing I preach personally is that you’ve just gotta love everybody. And I mean everybody.” He added, “It’s all about respect and never belittling someone else’s faith, no matter what it is.”

Prayer Improves My Mindset, Says Tyler Blevins

For Blevins, self-improvement is a key part of his faith life. “We don’t need something like the threat of the end of times to start becoming better humans and developing a relationship with the Lord,” he said.

One way the streamer seeks to better himself is through prayer. “I can confidently say I feel like I’m all-around a better person and in a better mindset since I started praying every night,” he said.

Report: Most Americans Skip Lent

Aaron Earls

March 5, 2025

Lent may be on the calendar, but it’s not on the radar of most Americans.

A traditional 40-day window of fasting before Easter, Lent is observed by around a quarter of U.S. adults, according to a Lifeway Research study. Three in 4 Americans (74%) say they do not typically observe Lent, while 26% participate.

Beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending during Holy Week, Lent serves as a time of preparation for the Easter celebration in many Christian traditions. The practice often involves the spiritual discipline of fasting.

The 26% who currently say they observe Lent is statistically unchanged from the 24% who said the same in a 2016 Lifeway Research study.

Catholics (59%) and Hispanics (39%) are among the most likely to say they participate in Lent. Those who rarely or never attend a religious service are the most likely to ignore Lent (89%).

“Those who are not followers of Jesus Christ have little incentive to follow His example of fasting in the wilderness for 40 days,” said Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research. “However, nothing prevents non-Christians from participating in Lent as they do in other cultural trends that call for refraining from an activity such as Dry January or No Shave November.”

Lenten practices

Among the quarter of Americans who typically observe Lent, most participate in some form of fasting. Asked about seven possible means of participation, the average Lent practitioner involves at least two methods of observing the season.

Half of those who participate in Lent say they fast from a favorite food or beverage (50%) or attend church services during the season (49%). More than a third say they fast from a bad habit (37%), give to others (36%) or pray more (34%). Around a quarter say they fast from a favorite activity (25%) or read Lenten Bible verses or devotions (22%). For 2% of respondents, observing Lent doesn’t include any of the seven options.

More than 3 in 5 Americans who observe Lent (62%) say they typically include at least one of the three fasting options during the season before Easter.

“Fasting is on the Christian liturgical calendar not unlike the Jewish Yom Kippur and Muslim Ramadan,” said McConnell. “In Christianity, self-denial does not earn someone heavenly favor but redirects the believer’s thoughts and priorities toward the one they proclaim as their Lord, Jesus Christ.”

Catholics are more likely than Protestants to say fasting from a favorite food or beverage is part of their practice during Lent (55% v. 38%). Additionally, middle-aged adults, 35-49 (57%) and 50-64 (56%), are among the most likely to fast from those favorites.

For other types of Lenten fasting, those who attend church services more than once a week are more likely than those who attend about once a week to say they fast from favorite activities during the season (35% v. 20%).

Older Americans, 65 and older, are the least likely to say they fast from a bad habit during Lent (19%).

Those who already regularly attend church likely incorporate that into their observance. Lent observers who attend church services more than once a week (55%) and about once a week (61%) are more likely than those who rarely or never attend (31%) to say they typically attend church services as part of their participation in the season. Additionally, adults 65 and older (60%) and those in the South (55%) are among the most likely to include church attendance in their Lenten practice.

Why Are Southern Baptists Still Arguing About Women Preachers?

Bob Smietana

March 5, 2025

Southern Baptists — A general view of messengers during the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Tuesday, June 11, 2024. (RNS Photo/AJ Mast)

The Southern Baptist Convention’s credentials committee had a problem.

It had been asked to determine whether or not to expel one of the denomination’s largest churches for violating the SBC’s ban on women serving as pastors. But the committee could not agree on what the word “pastor” meant in a rule that said only man can be pastors. Did it refer to the church’s senior pastor? Or did it mean any role with the title of pastor — such as a music pastor, youth pastor or children’s pastor?

The committee asked the messengers, or local delegates, at the denomination’s 2022 annual meeting for help. What the committee got was an earful instead.

“If we eventually have to form a study committee over every word in our confession of faith, then we’re doomed, and we’re no longer a confessional people,” Albert “Al” Mohler, president of the SBC’s largest seminary, told the meeting, adding that Southern Baptists know exactly what a pastor is.

Nearly three years — and a failed constitutional amendment — later, confusion remains about how the ban on women pastors should be applied. In mid-February, the SBC’s Executive Committee voted to expel a church in Alaska after its pastor signed a letter saying Jesus did not put limits on the roles women could play in ministry. But the credentials committee, which makes recommendations to the Executive Committee on such issues, deemed that a South Carolina megachurch, which has a woman teaching pastor who preaches regularly, remained in “friendly cooperation” with the SBC.

That did not please Clint Pressley, the SBC’s current president.

Pastor Mark Goodman. (Courtesy photo)

“My understanding is that our credentials committee deemed a church in friendly cooperation that has a female teaching pastor,” Pressley, a North Carolina pastor, wrote on X. “The committee needs to take another look at this one. Our statement of faith is clear about qualifications for a pastor.”

Mark Goodman, pastor of Rabbit Creek Church in Anchorage, Alaska, said he was saddened to no longer be part of the SBC, after spending his whole life in the denomination.

“I jokingly say I’ve been a Baptist longer than I’ve been a Christian, because my parents took me to a Baptist church while I was still in the womb,” Goodman said in a recent interview.

Goodman said the church had first heard from the credentials committee last year, after someone complained about Lori Pepiton, the congregation’s longtime children and families pastor. After exchanging emails, the committee closed its inquiry, having found no conflicts with the SBC’s beliefs.

“Again, thank you for your cooperation and for the information you provided,” the committee wrote in an email dated Oct. 24. “We value the partnership of Rabbit Creek Church with the Southern Baptist Convention and pray for your continued ministry.”

Things changed when Goodman and other leaders at the church signed a letter in March which argued for no limits on the roles women can hold. Signing that letter went too far, the credentials committee decided, as it gave public support to beliefs that contradicted SBC teaching.

Goodman said that in signing that letter, he was speaking for himself, not the congregation. Not everyone in the church holds the same beliefs, and the church has not taken an official stand on the issue. The SBC holds what are known as complementarian beliefs — the idea that women and men have different roles to play in marriages and in churches. Churches that allow women pastors are often referred to as egalitarian.

Among the members at Rabbit Creek is Randy Covington, the leader of Alaska Baptist Resource Network, the state convention for SBC churches in Alaska. He told Baptist Press, an official SBC publication, there was no conflict between Rabbit Creek’s beliefs and the SBC.

Rabbit Creek Church in Anchorage, Alaska. (Image courtesy Google Maps)

“They do not have egalitarian views,” Covington said. “Their positive impact on the community of Anchorage cannot be overlooked.”

The Rev. Meredith Stone, executive director of Waco, Texas-based Baptist Women in Ministry, said the removal of Rabbit Creek Church was disappointing. She found it odd that the church was essentially being punished because its pastor signed a letter.

“It feels like kind of a witch hunt,” she said.

NICC Active Ingredient #8 Imagery

#8 Imagery Competency Markers

Evocative Imagery (8.1)

Imagery Naming (8.2)

Resource Development (8.3)

Second Woman Alleges Sexual Assault by John-Paul Miller, Coverup by His Father

1. Start with ‘why.’

2. Work on ministry, not in ministry.

3. Ask ‘who’ before you ask ‘what’ or ‘how.’

4. Understand organizations as starfish and spiders.

5. Pray and act in a 5C cycle.

How Does a Church Translation System Work?

The headset microphone that the translator wears when translating your services.

The translation transmitter that the translator’s microphone is hooked to that transmits the language translations to the people.

The translation receivers and headsets that are worn by the people receiving the translation.

Questions To Ask Before Buying Translation Equipment

How To Choose The Best Church Translation System

Fm or Infrared Translation Devices

Analog or Digital Signal

Fixed or Portable Translation Systems

Government Compliance And Regulations

Single Or Multi-Channel Interpretation Equipment

See Page Two for our findings on the best church translation system . . .

4 Creative Ways to Pray with Your Small Group

1. Go for a Prayer Walk in your neighborhood(s)

2. Community Prayer

1. Be eager for understanding

2. Be eager for involvement

Candace Cameron Bure Loves ‘Little Steps of Growth’ When Her Daughter Navigates Modesty

The Birth of the Church: The Apostolic Age

The Rise of Persecution

The Council of Nicaea and the Formation of Orthodoxy

The Great Schism: East vs. West

7 Essential Principles of Biblical Hermeneutics

1. Context is Key

2. Scripture Interprets Scripture

3. Recognize Literary Genres

4. Understand the Original Languages

5. Consider Historical and Cultural Background

10 Key Concepts of Systematic Theology

1. The Doctrine of God (Theology Proper)

2. The Doctrine of Scripture (Bibliology)

3. The Doctrine of Christ (Christology)

4. The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit (Pneumatology)

5. The Doctrine of Humanity (Anthropology)

6. The Doctrine of Sin (Hamartiology)

Lysa TerKeurst Recaps ‘Bible Man’ Story

Streamer Tyler ‘Ninja’ Blevins: We Need To Talk About Faith

Prayer Improves My Mindset, Says Tyler Blevins

Lenten practices

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