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Ways to Welcome Families to Church: Creating a Warm and Inclusive Environment

By
Staff
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ways to welcome families to church
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Welcoming families to church is not just about opening doors and saying hello; it’s about creating a warm, inclusive environment that makes them feel valued and appreciated. But why does this matter? In the bustling and often impersonal world we live in, churches can serve as beacons of community, support, and unconditional love.

The first impression your church makes can significantly impact whether a family decides to return. This article will delve into effective strategies for welcoming young families to your church, ensuring they feel a sense of belonging from the moment they step in.

Importance of a Welcoming Church

The significance of a welcoming church cannot be overstated. A welcoming environment reflects the church’s mission and values, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and love.

When families feel welcomed, they are more likely to engage with the church community, participate in services and activities, and develop a deeper spiritual connection. This initial interaction sets the tone for their ongoing relationship with the church and can lead to lasting membership and engagement.

First Impressions: The Gateway to Connection

The most important first impression your church can make is one of warmth and openness. A genuine, friendly greeting can make families feel seen and valued, encouraging them to open up and engage with the church community.

This initial interaction is crucial in setting a positive tone and building a foundation for a welcoming atmosphere.

RELATED: The 6 Things That Say ‘Welcome to Church’

5 Ways to Welcome Young Families to Your Church

1. Greet Families Warmly

Acknowledging the effort families make to come to church is essential. Greet them with a smile, introduce yourself, and explain your role in the church. Personalized attention shows that you value their presence and are there to support their spiritual journey.

2. Introduce New People to Old Friends

Facilitating connections is key to integrating families into the church community. Introduce parents to other parents and children to peers. These connections can help them feel part of the community and encourage them to return.

3. Have Undeniable Children’s Areas

Ensure the children’s area is welcoming and easily accessible. Provide necessary materials like changing tables or diapers and introduce families to the volunteers. A well-equipped and friendly children’s area can significantly impact a family’s experience.

4. Create a Sense of Community

Engagement is crucial for fostering a sense of belonging. Offer opportunities for families to get involved in various activities, such as Sunday school or Bible study. Community events can also be a great way to welcome families and show them they are an important part of the church.

5. Share Your Church’s Mission and Values

Communicating your church’s mission and values helps families understand the community they are joining. Sharing stories of community service or volunteerism can inspire them to get involved and contribute to the church’s mission.

Additional Tips and Activities to Welcome Families

  • First Impressions: Play upbeat music during services to create a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Social Connections: Invite families to coffee and snacks after service to foster community bonds.
  • Welcome Kits: Provide new families with a kit containing important information about the church.
  • Welcome Events: Host events or outings to help families feel connected to the community.
  • Personalized Communication: Send welcome emails or texts to new families, introducing them to church staff and offering support.

Engaging Families in Church Life

To bring families into church, create an environment that speaks to all ages and stages of life. Offering a range of activities and services that cater to different interests and needs can make your church more welcoming. Inclusivity is key in making everyone feel they have a place within your community.

The Real Reason Leaders Hesitate To Decide (And What To Do About It)

By
Gavin Adams
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Leaders do a lot! They must gain influence and trust. They must make progress and achieve results. They elevate everyone around them.

But at the heart of all this leadership activity, we find one commonality: decision-making.

Making decisions is what leaders DO. It’s not just part of the job. In many ways, it is the job.

Leaders must decide:

  1. When to create or innovate.
  2. When to hire (or fire).
  3. How to build the culture.
  4. How to organize the team.
  5. How to grow influence.
  6. How to increase revenue.
  7. When to spend money.
  8. How to best communicate inside and outside the organization.
  9. If the current strategy or model is working.
  10. And what to do if it’s not.

We could list hundreds of decisions leaders are responsible for. The list is never-ending.

Two Decision Dilemmas

Great decisions require good information.

Simple decisions can be made from past experiences or gut instincts, but we can’t rely on simple approaches for complex decisions. And unfortunately, most leadership decisions aren’t simple.

Look back at the list above. We must gather, digest, and synthesize information to make great decisions on innovation, change, people, organizational structures, revenue challenges, etc. And not from just one side of the issue, either. We need to evaluate from various perspectives and multiple people.

All this information gathering leads many leaders to:

1. Too Much Information

We call this “paralysis by analysis.” Too much information makes decision-making nearly impossible. When a leader seeks wisdom and opinions from various perspectives and multiple people, rarely (if ever!) will the feedback point in one direction or to one solution. It seems the more information we get, the more complex the decision becomes, stalling out the process.

2. Incomplete Information

Conversely, leaders often feel they need more information to make effective decisions. These leaders delay decisions, hoping to discover 100 percent certainty or unanimous consensus. While we intellectually understand certainty or consensus isn’t realistic, holding out for more data keeps some leaders from moving forward.

What Is the Baptism in the Holy Spirit?

By
Joe Long
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baptism in the holy spirit
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I recently had an opportunity to minister to men at a large camp where the Holy Spirit was present and active. The large majority of the men I spoke with not only knew who the Holy Spirit was, but could often recite something the Spirit does in the life of believers. Things like being our helper, our advocate, and so on, but where not familiar with the phrase baptism in the Holy Spirit. It reminded me of a passage from the book of Acts:

While Apollos was in Corinth, Paul took a route through the interior and came to Ephesus, where he found some disciples. He asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you came to believe?”

They replied, “We’ve not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” (Acts 19: 1-2)

Can you put yourself in Paul’s shoes in this story? Can you imagine encountering “disciples” who had never even heard that there is a Holy Spirit? It might seem far-fetched over 2000 years since the apostle came across people with no grid for the Spirit. But there’s an aspect of this that still remains a mystery for tons of people that follow Jesus. The issue isn’t that they haven’t heard that there is a Holy Spirit, but instead the issue is that many haven’t experienced the baptism in the Holy Spirit.

What is the the Baptism in the Holy Spirit?

When I asked the men at this meeting if they had received the baptism of the Holy Spirit, not unlike the question Paul asks next in Acts 19, almost every one of them referenced their water baptism. I told them that I wasn’t talking about water baptism—as amazing and essential as that is in the life of a disciple. Their response made me feel a little like Paul may have felt among the Ephesians, but with 2,000 years of history in our rearview mirror.

This experience reminded me of how many followers of Jesus with big hearts for the Lord (and his mission) are missing an integral piece of the equation. But before I get into that in detail, what is the baptism in the Holy Spirit and why does it matter?

The baptism in the Holy Spirit is best exemplified in Acts 2 on the day of Pentecost, where a group of people were “together in one place” and the sound of a howling wind filled the house while flames of fire seemed to be on each of them and they were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages. (Acts 2:2-4)

10 Things Healthy Leaders Do Daily

By
Jeremy Roberts
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communicating with the unchurched

There are 10 things healthy leaders do daily that every church leader should imitate.

Last week, I had the opportunity of attending a pastors and wives retreat led by Dr. and Mrs. Steve Gaines. It was incredibly refreshing. Steve and Donna serve at Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis and Steve is a past president of the Southern Baptist Convention.

During one of our sessions, Dr. Gaines shared his “10-Step Growth Plan” that he tries to accomplish daily. It impacted and challenged me, and I’m sure it’ll do the same for you.

It’s not what you can do in A day, but EVERY day that matters. Plan your day and work your plan.

10 Things Healthy Leaders Do Daily

1. Healthy Leaders Read the Bible.

Use a Bible reading plan and read the Bible every day. The audio feature of the Bible app is especially helpful for Bible reading while you’re driving or exercising.

2. Healthy Leaders Pray.

Talk with the Lord. Pray the Scriptures. Look at your church’s prayer list. Use a prayer journal. Do one or all of these.

3. Healthy Leaders Exercise.

I recently talked with a pastor who lost 52 pounds, and he has walked 10,000 steps daily for exactly a year. Incredible!

4. Healthy Leaders Eat Well.

This isn’t easy. I struggle with it. Most of us have a hard time eating with wisdom. Make it a point of daily intentionality. Our bodies are the temple of God!

5. Healthy Leaders Pray and Talk With Their Spouse in Love.

Last night, Charity and I sat on our porch, and we had a pleasant conversation. I went to sleep thinking about how much I enjoyed us just laughing together.

6. Healthy Leaders Write an Encouraging Note.

If you’re a frequent reader of my website, you know I’m huge on handwritten notes. They mean the world to people.

7. Healthy Leaders Do Their Work.

Make a task list. Then, prioritize it. Then, execute it. Work heartily unto the Lord!

8. Healthy Leaders Read.

In addition to your Bible reading, read at least 30 minutes a day. If you’re an audio learner, listen to a book for at least 30 minutes a day with the Audible app. If you want to read articles via audio, use the Speaky app.

9. Healthy Leaders Give Something to Somebody Every Day.

There’s no better way to build a culture of generosity in your organization or family than to give every day. Give money, or prayer, or something every day. Be a giver!

God is Good Quotes from Scripture

By
Staff
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God is Good
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The declaration “God is good” is a universal creed that crosses cultural and religious boundaries, embodying the essence of faith, gratitude, and recognition of divine grace. God is good quotes from Scripture encourage and uplift us. This blog delves into the profound significance of this concise but impactful statement.

We will explore scriptures that describe God’s attributes, reflecting on His goodness and how it influences our daily lives. By examining various scriptures, interpretations, and notable quotes, we aim to illuminate the omnipresent goodness of God and its relevance in today’s world.

List of Scriptures Describing How God is Good

The Bible offers abundant testimony to God’s goodness and other divine attributes:

  1. Psalm 34:8: “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.” This verse encapsulates the experiential nature of God’s goodness.
  2. Nahum 1:7: “The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him.” Here, God’s goodness is portrayed as a protective force.
  3. Psalm 100:5: “For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” This scripture highlights God’s enduring love and faithfulness as aspects of His goodness.
  4. James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” This verse suggests that God’s goodness is immutable and reliable.
  5. Exodus 34:6-7: “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion, and sin.” This passage offers a comprehensive view of God’s merciful and just nature.

These scriptures not only illustrate the goodness of God but also His other attributes such as love, faithfulness, compassion, and grace.

Understanding the Saying: “God is Good”

The phrase “God is good” transcends mere words; it is a heartfelt affirmation of God’s unfailing benevolence. Historically and culturally, it serves as a touchstone of faith, particularly within the Christian tradition, offering solace and inspiration.

It reminds believers of the constancy of God’s nature in the face of life’s fluctuations and challenges. In everyday discourse, this affirmation bolsters faith, nurtures hope, and fosters communal bonds among believers, reinforcing the belief that, despite the complexities and trials of life, the fundamental nature of God remains benevolent and good.

Famous Quote: “God is Good All the Time”

This enduring quote resonates within the Christian community, affirming the timeless and unchanging nature of God’s goodness. Its repetition in worship and daily life serves as a continuous reminder and assertion of faith, especially during moments of doubt or suffering.

The phrase suggests that God’s goodness is not just an occasional or arbitrary trait but a constant and defining characteristic of the divine, offering a foundation of hope and trust for believers across generations.

RELATED: If There Is No God, Why Is There so Much Good in the World?

A Short Quote for God

A poignant and concise expression of divine goodness is found in the simple declaration, “God’s grace suffices.” This short quote succinctly captures the essence of God’s benevolent nature, emphasizing the sufficiency of God’s grace in every circumstance.

It reminds believers that, in the face of trials and insufficiency, the grace of God is always enough to sustain, empower, and bring solace, thereby highlighting the profound simplicity and depth of God’s goodness.

Who Said “Only God is Good”?

In a profound exchange found in Mark 10:18, Jesus Christ himself emphasizes the uniqueness of divine goodness by stating, “No one is good—except God alone.” This declaration underscores the concept of God’s unparalleled holiness and purity, setting a clear distinction between human and divine nature. It challenges believers to recognize the absolute and unblemished goodness of God, contrasting it with human imperfection, and encourages a deeper reliance on and reverence for God’s perfect nature.

Why God is Good Verse

The scripture “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever” from Psalm 107:1 encapsulates the reason for acknowledging God’s goodness: His enduring love.

Bible Verses About Fasting: Understanding Its Significance

By
Staff
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Fasting is a spiritual discipline that has been practiced for centuries, transcending various cultures and religions. In Christianity, fasting holds a unique place, deeply intertwined with prayer, repentance, and seeking God’s presence. The Bible, Christianity’s sacred text, references fasting in multiple contexts, illustrating its importance and the principles surrounding it. In this brief overview, we will explore essential Bible verses about fasting, understand the biblical perspective on this practice, and uncover the spiritual significance it carries.

Bible Verses About Fasting

There are numerous Bible verses about fasting, each providing insight into why and how believers should undertake this spiritual discipline. Some notable verses include:

  • Joel 2:12 (NIV): “Now, therefore,” says the LORD, “turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.”
  • Matthew 6:18 (NIV): “That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.”
  • Isaiah 58:3-7 (NIV): This passage questions the motives behind fasting and calls for a fast that involves acting justly, freeing the oppressed, and caring for the needy.

These Bible verses about fasting underscore fasting as a sincere act of faith, not merely a ritualistic or performative practice but a heartfelt seeking of God’s will and favor.

True fasting, according to the Bible, goes beyond mere abstinence from food or drink. It is about humbling oneself before God, seeking spiritual renewal, and fostering a deeper relationship with Him. Isaiah 58 emphasizes a fasting that pleases God, highlighting acts of kindness, justice, and humility as integral components of true fasting.

Fasting is important to God because it demonstrates a believer’s sincerity, humility, and earnestness in seeking Him. It is a tangible sign of repentance and a personal commitment to turning away from sin and towards God. Through fasting, believers express their dependence on God, deepen their spiritual insights, and strengthen their faith.

While the Bible does not prescribe specific durations for fasting, there are instances of a corporate three-day fast, such as Esther’s fast (Esther 4:16). These instances underscore the urgency and earnestness in seeking God’s intervention and favor.

Psalm 35:13 highlights the importance of fasting: “But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth: I humbled my soul with fasting; and my prayer returned into mine own bosom,” illustrates personal humility and the use of fasting as a form of intercession for others. It speaks to the self-discipline involved in fasting. It reflects a personal sacrifice and dedication to seeking God’s help or intervention, not just for oneself but also on behalf of others.

Discovering the Depths of the Love of God Through Bible Quotes

By
Staff
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bible quotes about the love of god
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The Bible has guided and comforted countless individuals through its profound teachings and narratives. At the heart of its messages is the theme of the love of God, particularly Bible quotes on the unconditional love that God has for humanity.

The Love of God

The concept of the love of God in the Bible is vast and multi-dimensional, transcending human understanding. The following verses offer a glimpse into how this love manifests and affects our lives.

1. “This is Love”

“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”

This passage from I John 4:9-10 beautifully illustrates the sacrificial nature of God’s love. The act of giving His only Son for the salvation of humanity exemplifies a love that is selfless and boundless, setting a profound example for us to follow.

2. Psalm 138:8: Forever Love

“The LORD will vindicate me; your love, LORD, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.”

The Psalms, filled with songs and prayers, often reflect on God’s loving characteristics. Here, the psalmist acknowledges God’s mercy and grace, highlighting His faithfulness and abundant steadfast love, a love that remains constant and unwavering.

3. Romans 5:8: Love Demonstrated Through Action

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us..”

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, points out that God’s love is not merely a passive or abstract feeling. It is active and demonstrated through the ultimate sacrifice—Jesus Christ dying for us, even while we were still sinners.

4. Ephesians 5:1-2: Called to Imitate Divine Love

“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a sacrificial love.”

In this letter, Paul encourages the Ephesians to emulate the love of God. This agape love, sacrificial and unconditional, is what believers are called to practice in their daily lives.

5. Philippians 4:13: Strength Through Love

“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”

While not explicitly about love, this verse from Philippians emphasizes the empowering aspect of God’s love. Through the strength given by Christ, believers can overcome challenges, highlighting the supportive nature of divine love.

Rahab in the Bible: A Story of Faith and Redemption

By
Staff
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Rahab in the Bible
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The story of Rahab, as recounted in the Bible, is one of the most fascinating narratives, blending elements of suspense, faith, and redemption. Rahab is a biblical character whose actions and faith had profound implications, not just in her lifetime but in the lineage of Christianity.

In this article, we will explore her story as told in the Book of Joshua, her legacy in Christian tradition, her supposed connections to other biblical figures, and the lessons her story continues to offer.

Who was Rahab?

Rahab is introduced in the Book of Joshua, Chapter 2, as a prostitute residing in the city of Jericho. Despite her profession, which was frowned upon and considered sinful, Rahab played a crucial role in the Israelites’ capture of Jericho. She provided shelter to two Israelite spies sent by Joshua to scout the land. More importantly, Rahab demonstrated a profound faith in God, recognizing His power and the inevitability of Jericho’s fall into the hands of the Israelites.

Her bravery and faith were further highlighted when she asked the spies for mercy for herself and her family once Jericho was conquered. In exchange for her help, the spies promised safety for her and her family, marking her house with a scarlet cord as a sign of their protection. Her story is not just a narrative of survival but is emblematic of faith and redemption, transcending her social status and past.

Legacy and Connection to Jesus

Rahab is considered a heroine of faith in Christian tradition. Her story illustrates that faith in God can lead to redemption, regardless of one’s past or social standing.

Furthermore, Rahab is mentioned in various genealogies as an ancestor of Jesus Christ, adding layers of significance to her character. In Matthew 1:5, Rahab is listed in the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting her integral role in the biblical narrative and the lineage of Christianity.

RELATED: The Mercy You Are Missing

Common Questions

Married to Joshua?

There is no biblical evidence to suggest that Rahab was married to Joshua. This misconception might arise from conflating different narratives or characters within the Bible. Her story primarily revolves around her interactions with the spies and does not indicate a marital connection to Joshua.

Sunday School Lesson of Rahab

This Sunday school lesson emphasizes faith, courage, and redemption. It teaches that no matter one’s past, faith in God can lead to salvation and deliverance. Her story is used to illustrate the power of faith and the importance of acting righteously, even in the face of danger.

Preparing Your Kids for Artificial Intelligence

By
Andrew Linder
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Artificial Intelligence
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AI (Artificial Intelligence)—It’s the new buzzword. And it’s natural for our kids to be curious about it and all of it’s ever-increasing forms.

As this technology advances, so will our need to adapt our strategies towards how we use it.

However, here are five simple tips adapted from commonsensemedia.org (a helpful site for parents) that I shared with a group of moms and dads at my home church yesterday on how to start helping prepare your kids now for the new world of AI tomorrow.

These suggestions are just a starting point to open up a much larger ongoing conversation.

1. Discuss the Benefits and Risks.

Have you had any conversations with your kids about AI? It’s going to be a big part of their lives (or at least their surrounding world) in the coming years.

Remember when people used to say “This generation of kids will never know a world without the iPhone?” Well, that’s what is going to be said about AI and the next generation.

As with anything new (internet, smartphone, Siri, etc.), there are great benefits and great risks that should be discussed.

The reality is that AI is here to stay, and for the sake of our kids, we can’t afford to just ignore it.

2. Explore AI Tools Together.

It’s great for kids to learn how to use new tools with adult support and supervision.

My boys and I tried this out a few weeks ago. We asked ChatGPT to create an argument for and against a biblical issue, and the results were interesting, to say the least.

3. Address Biases in Tech.

Like any tech, AI is not perfect. It’s designed by humans, so has the potential for many mistakes or mistruths.

Remind your kids to get important information only from trustworthy sources they know they can rely on, rather than randomly through technology.

3 Ways To Make the Local Church Feel More Like a Family

By
Chris Martin
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communicating with the unchurched

On Friday, I answered this question in a blog post: “Why Are Millennials Less Religious Than Previous Generations?” According to a Pew Research Center interview with a New York University sociology professor (and numerous studies), the clearest reason Millennials are less likely to be religious than their parents or grandparents is because they lack trust in institutions. This is no secret. I’ve written about Millennial trust issues related to the church a number of times. Perhaps the clearest step local churches can take is to invest time and energy into the community life of the church, and make every effort to make the church feel more like a family than an institution.

That sounds simple, but is it? Maybe, or maybe not, depending on the culture of your local church. Regardless, here are three simple things your local church can do to feel more like a loving family and less like a stuffy institution.

1. Do non-churchy things together.

Do life together with your church. If the only time you get together with your church family is in the sanctuary on Sunday mornings or in your boring Sunday school classroom, your church family is probably going to feel less like a family and more like a social club or class at school.

Go bowling together. Eat meals together. Go on vacation together. Have Christmas parties and birthday parties, bridal showers and baby showers.

Talk about your love for football, or hip-hop, or cooking shows, or video games. Play board games. Go to the park. If you and some church friends are far away from family, spend the holidays together.

Do non-churchy things with people in your church, and it will start to feel less like a club or school and more like a family.

2. Spend time in each others’ homes.

This point goes hand-in-glove with the point above. Doing non-churchy things with church friends will often drive you to each others’ homes. Obviously, if you want to have a meal together or schedule a board game night, or something like that, you can be sure to do that in your homes and not in the church.

But, at the same time, consider hosting your community group at a home and not on location at the church. Every church situation is different. If your church is a commuter church to which people come from far away in different directions, it may make the most sense to meet at the church for small group. But, if it’s not too much trouble, gathering in peoples’ homes can feel more comfortable, especially for new people to the group.

3. Care for each other.

Perhaps you’ve just had a baby and you need someone to help make and deliver meals. Maybe you just had a major surgery and need some help getting to work for a couple of weeks. Maybe your house flooded, and you need someone to store some of your stuff for a month or so as you fix up your basement.

Whatever it is, however big or small, the people who make up the local church need to bear the burdens of one another. We must do this not only because Scripture says to do so (Gal 6:2) but because, in doing so, we reflect the love of Jesus and attract outsiders to the loving, sacrificial body of Christ.

Families sacrifice for one another in order to bear the burden of others and love well.

Pastors, church leaders and any others who may be reading this blog: If you fret about reaching young people, and your church isn’t doing any of the three things above, perhaps your church looks more like a social club than a family.

This article originally appeared here.

The Tale of Two Fathers

By
Greg Stier
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two fathers
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Once upon a time there were two fathers.

The first father set unreachable standards for his children. He was angry and seemed impossible to please. He constantly reminded his kids that if they didn’t consistently live up to the family name, they were no children of his.

He constantly prodded them with questions and statements such as:

Are you sure you’re part of our family? Your behavior doesn’t reflect it.

I won’t claim you as my child if you keep acting like that.

Fail one more time, and you’re out of the family.

This father’s children were constantly on edge. For many of his kids, his threats didn’t lead to obedience, but rather to rebellion. Even the children who obeyed him did so out of fear, not out of love. They were constantly second-guessing themselves and had tremendous self-doubts. Many of these kids grew up to become adults with behavior problems that lasted a lifetime. Most needed counseling.

The other father was a loving one. He too had high standards for his children, but he was determined to help them live it out. When they fell and failed, he would offer them immediate and full forgiveness. Instead of condemning them, he coached them. Instead of enraging them, he encouraged them. Instead of threatening them, he strengthened them.

Yes, he disciplined his kids when they broke a family rule, but the goal was always to help them live their lives to the full. This dad was almost obsessive about his children walking in confident assurance that he loved them, no matter what.

When his kids broke his rules, he would encourage them with statements such as:

I love you. That’s why I’m going to discipline you.

The consequences I’m going to give you for your choices will be painful, but in the end, they’ll help you live a life of integrity.

Bible Verses About Not Giving Up: A Source of Strength and Hope

By
Staff
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bible verses about not giving up
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In times of trouble, many turn to the Bible for guidance and reassurance. The scriptures are filled with messages of hope, perseverance, and faith that encourage us not to give up, no matter the circumstances. Bible verses about not giving up should be part of every believers arsenal.

What Does God Say About Not Giving Up?

Bible verses about not giving up are a testament to the enduring spirit that God instills in us. Through various passages, we are reminded that we do not walk alone. For instance, Deuteronomy 31:6 offers comfort, stating, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” This and other verses reflect the steadfast support God promises to those who trust in Him.

Galatians 6:9 tells us, “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” This verse underscores the importance of persistent faith and diligence, promising rewards for those who remain steadfast. Joshua 1:9 and Romans 8:23 echo this sentiment, emphasizing strength, courage, and the hope of eternal life. These scriptures provide comfort and motivation, encouraging believers to continue in their faith journey, even when faced with challenges.

Jesus and the apostles spoke often about the importance of not giving up. In Matthew 19:26, Jesus proclaims, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible,” teaching us that faith can move mountains. Similarly, Romans 8:18 offers a perspective of eternal hope, reminding us that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. These Bible verses about not giving up teach us that with God’s help, we can overcome any obstacle.

A Dozen Bible Verses About Love and Strength – Start Here!

By
Staff
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bible verses about love and strength
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Bible verses about love and strength are core themes woven throughout the scripture. We don’t normally associate the two words together, love and strength, but the Bible reveals God’s strong love–a love stronger than death.

Bible Verses About Love and Strength

The Bible is rich with verses that highlight the significance of love and strength in our lives. From the patient and kind love described in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 to the powerful assertion that “God is love” in 1 John 3:18, scripture provides a deep well of wisdom on these themes. These verses not only reflect the importance of love in our relationships with others but also emphasize the strength that can be found in divine love.

For example, 1 John 4:7-8 tells us that love comes from God and that knowing God is synonymous with loving. This suggests that our capacity to love is not just a human emotion but a reflection of the divine within us. Deep verses about love include John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends,” and Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” These verses reflect the sacrificial nature of true love, showcasing the depth of God’s love for humanity.

Arguably, the most powerful verse for love in the Bible is found in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. This passage poignantly defines what love is and what it is not. It’s a timeless reminder that true love transcends all else, embodying patience, kindness, and selflessness. This verse holds profound wisdom, guiding us to express love in its purest form, reflecting the nature of God’s love for us. Psalm 136 is a beautiful chant of God’s everlasting love. Each verse ends with “His love endures forever,” reminding us of the eternal and unchanging nature of God’s love.

What did Jesus Say About Love?

Jesus summarized all the commandments into two: Love God with all your heart and love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:37-40). His teachings on love focus on selflessness, forgiveness, and compassion.

Balaam: Unveiling The Enigmatic Prophet’s Journey and Teachings

By
Staff
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Balaam
Adobe Stock #661605670

In the vast expanse of biblical narratives, the story of Balaam stands out as a compelling tale of prophecy, moral dilemmas, and divine intervention. Balaam, a prophet and priest-diviner, occupies a unique place in the Bible, blending the lines between devotion and defiance. His story, infused with mysterious characters and divine messages, offers a rich field for theological and moral exploration.

This blog post delves into the multifaceted character of Balaam, unraveling his story, teachings, and the profound legacy he left in biblical history.

Who Was Balaam in the Bible?

Balaam was a renowned prophet and diviner in the Bible, known for his ability to pray to and invoke deities from various cultures, including those considered evil or pagan. His reputation as a powerful seer reached Balak, the king of Moab, who sought his services to curse the Israelites as they encamped near his borders.

Despite his pagan background, Balaam is a complex figure who communicates with the God of Israel, demonstrating the Bible’s nuanced portrayal of foreign prophets and the universal reach of divine revelation.

RELATED: How Do We Explain Talking Donkeys and Burning Bushes?

The story of Balaam is primarily documented in the Book of Numbers, chapters 22 through 24. It begins when Balak, the king of Moab, observes the Israelites’ victories over the Amorites and grows fearful of their presence.

In desperation, he sends messengers to Balaam, offering riches in exchange for cursing the Israelites. Initially, God instructs him not to go, but upon Balak’s persistence, He allows him to proceed with a warning to only speak God’s words.

As Balaam sets out on his journey, he encounters a divine angel, invisible to him but visible to his donkey. After the donkey avoids the angel three times, resulting in Balaam’s anger and subsequent beatings, the donkey miraculously speaks, reprimanding him and opening his eyes to the angel’s presence. The angel reiterates God’s command to only deliver His message. When he finally meets Balak, he blesses the Israelites instead of cursing them, much to Balak’s dismay, reciting prophecies that highlight Israel’s future success and dominance.

The Doctrine of Balaam

The doctrine of Balaam refers to teachings that the New Testament attributes to Balaam, which led the Israelites into sin. This concept is mentioned in the books of Revelation and 2 Peter. The “doctrine” is understood to be his advice to Balak on how to weaken the Israelites spiritually since he could not curse them directly. He suggested that Moabite women should entice the Israelite men into idolatry and immorality, leading them away from their allegiance to God.

This insidious strategy resulted in a plague upon the Israelites as a divine punishment for their sins. The doctrine of Balaam thus symbolizes a warning against the seductions of false teachings and the importance of remaining faithful to divine commandments.

Balaam’s Prophecy

Balaam’s prophecy, contained within his four oracles, is a significant element of his biblical narrative. Contrary to King Balak’s intentions, his prophecies, divinely inspired, bless rather than curse the Israelites. His oracles are rich with messianic foresight and visions of Israel’s future prosperity.

The most notable among these is the prophecy that a star will come out of Jacob, a scepter will rise out of Israel (Numbers 24:17), which has been interpreted by many as a foretelling of the coming of the Messiah. his words underscore the irrevocable nature of God’s blessings on Israel, despite external threats and the nation’s own failings. His prophecies highlight the paradox of a pagan prophet speaking divine truths, serving as a testament to God’s sovereignty and the unexpected ways in which His will is manifested.

The Speaking Animal

One of the most memorable and unusual aspects of Balaam’s story is his encounter with a speaking animal. When he sets off to meet Balak despite divine warnings, his donkey sees an angel of the Lord standing in the way and turns aside three times. Frustrated, Balaam beats the donkey, until God miraculously opens the animal’s mouth, allowing it to speak and rebuke Balaam.

This extraordinary event not only highlights the donkey’s perceptive abilities compared to the blind prophet but also serves as a divine intervention to redirect his path and intentions, emphasizing the unexpected ways God can communicate.

Jesus’ Resurrection Is ‘Under Taught,’ ‘Under Preached,’ and ‘Under Believed’—Dr. Jeremiah Johnston Publishes New Bible Study

By
Jesse T. Jackson
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Jeremiah J. Johnston Body of Proof
Screengrab via YouTube @Christian Thinkers Society

Apologist and New Testament scholar Dr. Jeremiah J. Johnston just released a Bible study, titled “Body of Proof,” that closely examines the events of Easter weekend.

The Bible study follows the release of Johnston’s apologetics book “Body of Proof: The 7 Best Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection of Jesus—and Why It Matters Today,” which was published last year.

In the four-session “Body of Proof” Bible study, Johnston closely examines the events of Easter weekend, presenting four reasons why Christians can trust in the resurrection of Jesus as a historical fact.

Johnston, who serves as president of the Christian Thinkers Society, the pastor of apologetics and cultural engagement at Prestonwood Baptist Church, and the dean of Spiritual Development at Prestonwood Christian Academy, told ChurchLeaders that his reason for writing the Bible study is that, “unfortunately, the resurrection of Jesus Christ is under-taught in today’s churches.”

RELATED: R.C. Sproul: The Certainty of the Resurrection

“It’s under studied, it’s under preached, and, unfortunately, it’s under believed. And that’s not the faith that we see reflected in the New Testament,” Johnston said. “There are 260 chapters in the New Testament. We have 300 references to the resurrection of Jesus Christ,” he continued. “[Of the] 89 chapters in the gospels, only four of them deal with the infancy narratives or Christmas; more than one half deal with the final eight days of Jesus’ life.”

Every sermon in the book of Acts centers on the physical, bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ, “so if we’re gonna have churches that reflect the faith of the New Testament,” Johnston explained, “Christians need to up our game in a society where there’s so many conflicting voices and boldly proclaim that our faith is based on a historical fact that Jesus walked out of the grave alive.”

Johnston shared that one of the top questions he’s been asked by the media recently is, “Can you be a Christian if you don’t believe in the resurrection?”

RELATED: Evidence of the Resurrection Is ‘Fascinating,’ Says Baltimore Ravens Coach John Harbaugh

According to the Apostle Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 15, “No, you cannot be a Christian if you don’t believe in the physical, bodily resurrection of Jesus,” Johnston said.

“Unfortunately, I’m seeing that in the church today, unless you attend a funeral that actually preaches the gospel,” he added, “or if you go to some churches on Easter, you rarely hear a sermon on the resurrection of Jesus. And yet, the resurrection is the centerpiece of a Christian worldview.”

Alan Fadling: Is Anxiety Impacting Your Ministry?

By
Jason Daye
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alan fadling
Image courtesy of PastorServe

In an anxious world, how can we honestly assess if anxiety is showing up in our lives and ministries? In this week’s conversation on FrontStage BackStage, host Jason Daye is joined by Alan Fadling. Alan is the president and founder of Unhurried Living. Alan speaks and consults with ministry organizations around the world. He is an award-winning author, and his most recent book is titled, “A Non-Anxious Life.” Together, Alan and Jason discuss how we can intentionally and thoughtfully address the anxiety in our lives. Alan also shares how anxiety might be impacting the way we serve, even if we do not feel overly anxious.

FrontStage BackStage Podcast With Alan Fadling

View the entire podcast here.

Keep Learning

Looking to dig more deeply into this topic and conversation? Every week we go the extra mile and create a free toolkit so you and your ministry team can dive deeper into the topic that is discussed. Find your Weekly Toolkit here… Love well, Live well, Lead well!

Podcast Links

Understanding Intercessory Prayer: A Guide to Praying for Others

By
Staff
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intercessory prayer
Adobe Stock #316745004

Intercessory prayer is a profound spiritual practice that involves praying on behalf of others. This form of prayer has deep roots in biblical history and remains a vital part of many people’s lives today. By understanding the essence and significance of intercessory prayer, we can better appreciate its role in faith and community. This article will explore the concept, its biblical foundation, and provide guidance on how to engage in this meaningful practice.

The Essence of Intercessory Prayer

Intercessory prayer is the act of praying for another person or group, seeking divine intervention or blessings on their behalf. This practice is not a modern concept but one deeply ingrained in religious traditions, especially within Christianity.

Historically, figures like Moses and Abraham stood as mediators between God and the people, embodying the essence of intercessory prayer by pleading for mercy, guidance, or blessings for others. Today, this tradition continues as individuals pray for the health, well-being, and spiritual guidance of others, echoing the selfless nature of biblical intercessors.

Biblical Foundations of Intercessory Prayer

The Bible offers numerous examples of intercessory prayer, highlighting its importance in faith traditions. Notably, the Old Testament is filled with instances where prophets like Moses acted as intermediaries between God and the people.

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ himself is depicted as an intercessor, especially through the Lord’s Prayer, which is a model for praying for God’s kingdom and will to prevail on Earth. Scriptures like Proverbs 21:1 and various Psalms reinforce the idea that praying for others aligns with God’s desires and brings blessings.

The Role of Intercessors

Intercessors play a crucial role in spiritual communities. They are often seen as prayer warriors who dedicate significant time and energy to praying for others. The difference between a prayer warrior and an intercessor lies in the depth of their commitment.

While all believers can pray for others, intercessors often take on the burdens of others as their own, engaging in prolonged and dedicated prayer efforts. They stand in the gap between God’s will and the world’s realities, advocating for change, healing, and divine intervention.

Effective Intercessory Prayers

Initiating intercessory prayer typically begins with an opening prayer, seeking guidance and presence for the prayer session. A powerful scripture for opening prayers is Philippians 4:6, which encourages presenting requests to God with thanksgiving. Additionally, Psalms such as Psalm 102 embody the spirit of intercession, offering a template for pleading on behalf of oneself and others.

2024 Movieguide Award Winners Include Dennis Quaid, ‘Sound of Freedom,’ ‘Jesus Revolution,’ Lori Loughlin

By
Dale Chamberlain
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Movieguide Awards
Screengrabs of video courtesy of Movieguide

The winners of the 31st Annual Movieguide Faith & Values Awards Gala have been revealed and include the films “Jesus Revolution,” “Sound of Freedom,” and “The Super Mario Bros Movie.” Actors Dennis Quaid and Lori Loughlin were also honored. 

Movieguide, whose mission is “to redeem the values of the entertainment industry, according to biblical principles, by influencing industry executives and artists,” held its award ceremony on Feb. 9 at the Avalon Theatre in Hollywood, California, and aired the event on Great American Family Thursday (March 7). 

“Content that is inspiring is foundational to the Great American brand,” said Bill Abbott, president and CEO of Great American Media, in a press release. “It is an honor to work with [Movieguide founder] Ted [Baehr] and the team at Movieguide Awards to showcase and celebrate the highest quality family friendly entertainment.”

Great American Family actors Trevor Donovan and Danica McKellar hosted the event.

RELATED: Harvest Christian Fellowship, Greg Laurie Baptize 4,500 People in a One-Day, ‘Jesus Revolution’-Style Baptism

“The Super Mario Bros Movie” took home the award for best family movie, while “Jesus Revolution,” which tells the story of how Southern California pastor and evangelist Greg Laurie came to faith under the leadership of Chuck Smith and became a minister during the Jesus Movement of the 1960s and 1970s, was honored as the best film for mature audiences. 

“Sound of Freedom,” the controversial but commercially successful film depicting the life of Tim Ballard and his mission to end child sex trafficking, took home the Faith & Freedom Award for Movies.

Dennis Quaid earned the Grace Prize for Movie Performance for his role in “On a Wing and a Prayer,” a film based on the true story of a pharmacist who successfully landed an airplane after the pilot died of a heart attack mid-flight.

During the award ceremony, Quaid, who last year released his debut Gospel album “Fallen: A Gospel Record For Sinners,” also performed two songs. 

Before singing, Quaid made mention of his friend, singer-songwriter and actor Kris Kristofferson. Quaid recounted an evening he spent with Kristofferson after the two spent time in the recording studio together and said that Kristofferson’s wife, Lisa, told him that “nobody calls Kris anymore because they think he’s such a legend and, you know, he wouldn’t possibly accept their call.”

RELATED: Dennis Quaid Shares Testimony, Plays Songs From New Gospel Album at Pastor Greg Laurie’s Church

“So I thought that, maybe, before I sing this song,” Quaid went on to say, “we could all call him.”

‘In the Name of the Mother, Daughter and Holy Spirit’: Catholic Women Advocate Change

By
Claire Giangrave
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Catholic Women
Participants at the conference titled “Women Leaders: Towards a Brighter Future,” to mark International Women’s Day 2024, listen to a speech by Cristiane Murray, deputy director, Holy See press office, at the Vatican, March 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

VATICAN CITY (RNS) — In the week leading up to International Women’s Day, Catholic women gathered near the Vatican and online to promote female leadership in the Catholic Church, demanding equality and visibility while urging the institution to set its fears about change aside.

“It’s so important that the Catholic Church be engaged in this issue, not just internally, but also externally given the contribution they make in the education sphere and the health care sphere,” Chiara Porro, Australia’s ambassador to the Holy See, told Religion News Service on Wednesday (March 6).

Acknowledging that in her four years in Rome the Vatican has taken significant steps forward, with high-ranking Vatican positions being filled by women, Porro represents a country that “has a very strong agenda in empowering women and women in leadership,” she said, “including in our own foreign service, which like the Catholic Church has been very male dominated for a very long time.”

She said her female colleagues — the number of women ambassadors to the Vatican has risen to 40 — talk about the issue of women’s influence often. “It’s an incredible group, an informal group, and we come from many different areas of the world. We support each other, we share ideas, we network,” she said.

Pope Francis has supported the trend, she said, meeting with the female ambassadors last year on International Women’s Day.

Porro works closely with the International Union of Superiors General, the leaders of the world’s religious orders, to put a spotlight on the work nuns do, especially in the poorest places in the world. But their focus goes beyond Catholicism. This week, the embassies of Australia, France and the Netherlands, all woman-led, sponsored “Women Sowing Seeds of Peace and Cultivating Encounter,” a conference of Christian,  Jewish, Buddhist and Hindu female faith leaders.

“When we talk about interfaith dialogue, when we talk about religious leaders coming together, we find that a lot of the religions around the world are led by men, so it’s really important to bring female faith leaders together,” Porro said.

On Thursday, women theologians, experts and leaders met for a one-day discussion on female leadership, asking the tough questions facing the Catholic Church on the issue. In her presentation, ordained missionary and theologian Maeve Louise Heaney questioned Catholic theology that attempts to “essentialize” women. “They speak of complementarity and name the contribution of women as essentially different to that of men,” she explained, “pitching love, spirituality and nurturing against authority, leadership and intellect.”

Heaney challenged Catholics to reconsider their idea of God and the Holy Spirit as neither male nor female, quoting her “yoga-loving” niece who prays to “the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. And the Mother, the Daughter and the Holy Spirit.”

A 2022 survey of 17,200 women in 104 countries by the international forum Catholic Women Speak found that two-thirds of women in the church support “radical reform,” with 29% saying they will consider leaving the church if women aren’t given more prominence.

In her interview with RNS, Heaney recognized that the church, “like any big ship, moves slowly,” adding, “We don’t have a time frame.” She took encouragement, she said, from Francis’ Synod on Synodality, born from a massive consultation of Catholics on hot-button issues including female empowerment and LGBTQ inclusion, which will hold its second session at the Vatican in October.

She also supports the discussions underway at the Vatican about allowing women to be ordained as deacons, who can preach at Mass but cannot perform some other priestly functions, such as consecrate Communion or hear confessions.

How To Make a Free Digital Church Bulletin

By
Steve Baney
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church bulletin
Lightstock #774338

Communication is central to the tools of the Church. Often, this includes a weekly bulletin. When it comes to the print version, Church leadership can use a printed bulletin to welcome guests, serve up event info hotter than a fresh cup of church coffee, provide an order of worship, announcements, prayer requests, contact information, and sermon notes. But what about a digital bulletin? 

There are a number of reasons you might consider using a digital bulletin in addition  to (or in place of) a printed bulletin. 

  • When printed bulletins are misplaced or thrown away, digital bulletins can still be  accessed from any mobile device with an internet connection. 
  • You’ll save money and time by using less paper and ink—no need to fold the digital  copy.  
  • The content in the printed bulletin remains unchangeable until a new bulletin is printed. This means it becomes outdated almost as soon as it is created. But a digital bulletin is updated immediately for everyone to see the moment anything is changed. 
  • The digital bulletin is dynamic. Not only can it include text and images like a printed  bulletin, it can also include video, audio, and links to website content.
  • Digital bulletins are searchable, making it easier to find specific information.
  • Your website and social media platforms can integrate a digital bulletin. You can email it to your contacts list. 
  • Opportunities for feedback increase with the digital bulletin, welcoming people to reply to surveys, forms, a registrations. 

These advantages of a digital bulletin are just the basics available to you for free! 

Let’s talk about how to make a digital bulletin for free. You can accomplish this goal in a number of ways. So don’t limit yourself to these steps. But here is one way to do it for free. You can use the following steps to create your print bulletin and digital bulletin at the same time (no need to create two separate bulletins). 

1) Create a bulletin using Google Slides. You could also use Google Docs (it will function more like Microsoft Word or Mac Pages). But I prefer Google Slides because allows you to layout text and images anywhere on the page, more like Microsoft Publisher. Just add text boxes and images, then resize and drag them around as desired.

A) If needed, you can use this link to learn basics to use Google Slides.

B) Adjust the size and orientation of your slide to match your plans for the printed  bulletin by choosing File > Page Setup and make any changes needed. C) Once you’ve finished adding all the awesome content to your bulletin (now it’s  ready to print and display) go ahead and print copies of your bulletin the same  way you normally would. 

2) Make your digital bulletin available for everyone to see. You’ll need to change its  permissions so others can view (but not edit) the digital version. 

  1. A) Start by choosing File > Share > Publish to web 
  2. B) Change “Auto-advance slides” from every 3 seconds to every minute. At the  time of this article, there is no slower option. It will alway auto-advance. C) Check both of the boxed (Start the slideshow… and Restart the slideshow…). D) Click the Publish When it asks are you sure, you can select OK. E) Stay on this page because soon you’ll need the crazy long web address that just  appeared. 

3) Make a QR code that points to the digital bulletin. If you choose to regularly  update last week’s bulletin instead of making a new one each week, you’ll only need to do this part once. After that, the same QR code will continue to work for your newly updated digital bulletins. The QR code you make can go on your printed bulletin (among other places) to be easily scanned by anyone who wants access. A) The long-as-a-giraffe’s-neck web address for the digital bulletin will appear after you click the Publish button. Copy it. 

  1. B) Even though you’ll be using a QR code, don’t skip this step. Shorten the CVS receipt-length web address by using a website such as https://tinyurl.com/app and a clever alias like your church initials and the word bulletin. It will look  something like http://tinyurl.com/wccbulletin. Copy the shortened URL (web  address). 
  2. C) Use a QR Code Generator (like https://goqr.me/#t=url) to make a QR code by  pasting the shortened web address and then copying (or saving) the QR code image. 
  3. D) Test the QR code with your phone. If it didn’t work, go back to step 2 above (or text me at 833-515-7078 to ask for help). 
  4. E) If the QR Code is working, paste it onto the front of your shiny new digital bulletin. 
  5. F) Add text with the QR code that reads: Digital announcements available at [add the shortened web address]. This is one of several reasons why you want the shortened web address. 

4) Bask in the satisfaction of having added a digital option with all the benefits listed  above. So cool! Next week when your bulletin needs an update, just adjust your Google Slide. The short web address and QR code you made will already work.

The digital bulletin is the Swiss Army knife of church communication. And now you  know how to make one for free! I’d be overjoyed to learn that this article has been helpful to you. I invite you to text me at 833-515-7078. 

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