4 Types of People Who Give Anonymous Criticism

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October 20, 2023

There are different types of people who give anonymous criticism. I’ve been a small business owner, elected official, church planter and church revitalizer. So perhaps I’ve received more than my share.

As a leader for over 30 years, I’ve received my share of criticism. It comes with leadership. In my experience, if you aren’t receiving any criticism—you probably aren’t leading. You might be maintaining current systems well, but leadership is taking people somewhere new. That involves change. And that always invites some level of criticism.

You can read a previous post HERE on how I process anonymous criticism.

I know others do—and that’s okay for them—but I don’t automatically dismiss criticism because someone doesn’t sign their name. I try to consider if something in my leadership caused this person to feel the need to remain anonymous. (My StrengthFinder indicates I can tend to be controlling—something I have to continually guard against.) I have had people go to the trouble of making up a name and an email address. This was obvious because details are often accurate, but none of the information matches anyone in our database.

I also try to discern if this criticism is from someone who feels the need to remain anonymous. Perhaps something in their past (or present) keeps them from sharing their name. While I would always prefer to talk with the person, I try to reconcile his or her reasoning for withholding a name.

The reality is I believe there are at least four different motivations for a person offering anonymous criticism. I don’t believe this is the right option to take in giving criticism. It doesn’t fit well with my straightfoward personality. But I realize everyone is not like me.

4 Types of Anonymous Critics

Fearful

This is the anonymous critic who is simply afraid of conflict; perhaps because they’ve been injured by it previously. It may not be that the person doesn’t like you or the organization or that he or she doesn’t have good suggestions for improvement. This anonymous critic simply can’t bring him or herself to reveal his or her identity, because of fear. (Controlling leadership often develops this type of anonymous criticism.)

Pleaser

This is the anonymous critic who wants everyone to get along, and doesn’t want to create any problems or tension. He or she thinks you need to know something, but would rather not be the one to tell you. They are afraid you won’t like them if they tell you what’s on their heart or mind.

Troublemaker

This is the anonymous critic who is trying to stir up trouble and knows that throwing the anonymous criticism in the loop causes confusion and concern. These people are disrupters and critics I’d rather avoid reading if I could always discern this was the critic’s intent. (They are my least favorite kind of critics.)

Passive

This is the anonymous critic who has low interest in the organization and would prefer not to be bothered any further. It could be the one who feels intimidated by you or the position. This anonymous critic doesn’t want to be in the middle of the conflict, but thinks you need to know what he or she has to share.

Obviously, as leaders, we would prefer to know who is throwing the punches our way. It’s hard to defend ourselves against an unknown “enemy.” And sometimes that’s how anonymous critics make us feel—like we have an enemy. The fact is, however, you can’t always know which of these types you’re dealing with, but it does help me think through my approach to anonymous criticism when I can discern their motivation.

This article originally appeared here and is used by permission.

What Unforgiveness Does to Your Brain

By

Charles Stone

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October 20, 2023

We’ve all been deeply hurt in some way: a betrayal by a spouse, a behind-your-back criticism from a friend, hateful judgment from someone at church, a false accusation by a co-worker, unfair treatment by a boss or a parent. And the deeper the hurt, the harder it is and the longer it takes us to forgive. But sometimes we simply don’t forgive. We harbor a grudge. Resentment builds in our hearts. We nurse the offense. As a result, we remain prisoner to our pain and we actually harm our brain through unforgiveness.

When someone hurts us, it’s natural and normal to feel pain. God created our brains to help us survive when we feel threatened. It’s called the fight-flight-freeze response generated in our emotional centers, primarily mediated by two almond shaped clusters of brain cells called the amygdalae.

When the amygdalae are activated, a series of bio-chemical processes begin. The adrenal glands that lie on top of our kidneys release the stress hormone cortisol into our bodies and the brain releases neurotransmitters into the brain. Those in turn activate part of our nervous system called the sympathetic nervous system. When this system is activated, among other things, our attention gets highly focused on survival, our digestive system stops, our pupils dilate, our saliva glands slow, our blood pressure and heart rate increases, and our muscles are readied for action. Our body prepares itself to fight, flee or freeze.

This process can happen whether or not we are in real danger or whether or not someone really hurts us or we simply perceive that they did.

Unforgiveness can keep our bodies and brains in this state of high alertness and leads to these unhealthy results.

What Unforgiveness Does to Your Brain:

1. Rumination:

We nurse and rehearse the hurt, which reinforces our negative emotions and burns the event and pain even deeper into our neuropathways. When we’re not focused on a task, our inner self-talk will often default to rehearsing the painful situation.

2. Diminished memory:

When we remain stressed for longs periods of time (i.e., we refuse to forgive), cortisol actually causes our brain to atrophy, especially our memory center called the hippocampus.

3. Amplified negative emotions:

Prolonged stress also amplifies our amygdalae’s sensitivity making us even more susceptible to further hurt and pain.

**4. Schadenfreude:**

This concept describes the secret pleasure we feel when we see those who have hurt us experience misfortune themselves. It actually causes our brain to produce the pleasure neurotransmitter dopamine. It actually feels good to see bad things happen to those we don’t forgive. It’s the opposite of praying for your enemies, which Jesus commanded us to do.

7 Words of Encouragement for Leaders of Small Groups

By

Rick Howerton

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October 20, 2023

Small-group leaders are some of my favorite people. In any small-group system, they are the ones who are in the middle of at least 12 lives and, in most instances, are influencing how life is lived in about five households. They are in the middle of the fracas giving their time and talents without any remuneration. here are some words of encouragement for leaders, because they deserve to be encouraged and need help.

For those small group pastors lacking the gift of encouragement, maybe some of these phrases are phrases you could speak to a small-group leader.

Words of Encouragement for Leaders

1. Thank you for being on the small-group team with me. I am really grateful I have the opportunity to do this with you.

2. You are a very special leader, someone I truly admire.

3. There are a lot of people who could’ve done what you’re doing. Personally, I’m really glad you agreed to lead a group because it makes it possible for me to get to hang out with you some.

4. I’m hearing great things about you from your group members. You must be doing a super job.

5. When I asked you to be a group leader, I knew you’d be super, but I didn’t realize you’d exceed my expectations this much.

6. Would you pray for me? I’ve come to admire your walk with God so much… I’d be honored if you would.

7. If you have some time, I’d love to take you to lunch and pick your brain. I’m hearing things from your group members that are really exciting. I’d love to hear what you’re doing and learn from you.

(Obviously, you want to use any one of these phrases when they are sincere and appropriate.)

I can assure you of this: words of encouragement for leaders that are personal, genuine and spoken while looking into the eyes of a small-group leader will build relational equity and will motivate a small group leader in ways few other actions will.

Choose Your Focus

By

Brandon Cox

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October 20, 2023

You rarely get to choose your circumstances. You can’t stop world hunger, pandemics, or global economic conditions. But you can choose your focus.

Think of your focus as a kind of currency. You can literally only have one conscious thought at a time, so in each and every moment, you get to decide what you’ll spend that moment’s mental energy on.

Choose Your Focus

There are thoughts that you consume or receive, such as when you watch television, listen to music or a sermon, or read a book. When you consume information or entertainment, your focus is absorbed in whatever message is coming in.

Then there are the thoughts that run around in your mind when you’re not consuming anything. You’re just processing, or reflecting, or praying, or having those inner conversations with yourself. And yes, these two kinds of thoughts often happen right alongside each other as you interpret what your senses are taking in.

And here’s the kicker: what you choose to focus on affects your emotions, your mood, your worldview, your sense of self, your intentions, your motives, and your decisions. In other words, what you focus on matters a lot.

10 Tips to Create Great Worship Vocals

By

Jamie Harvill

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October 20, 2023

great worship vocals — Lightstock #355498

Most worship team vocal parts, like rhythm arrangements, are developed organically (with a little help from the original recording). I’ve been asked several times about how to develop great vocal arrangements. For me, it’s all about creating a beginning, a middle and end to a song, which then helps it to blossom all the way to the final note. The tendency for some is to have everyone jump-in, find a note, and sing everywhere. But there’s a better way to create great worship vocals.

The following are 10 tips on avoiding the trap of overcrowding your vocal arrangements. I have included both technical and musical hints to give a song a place to start, to develop and grow, and to become an even greater tool to help lead the congregation on the worship journey.

Great Worship Vocals

1. Confidence.

This is so important because a vocalist is a high-profile position on the worship team. They are the most visible people on stage, next to the worship leader. An individual’s confidence will set the congregation at ease as they help lead the singing. Confidence in one’s part, and comfort with one’s self, brings about positive and confident body language for the singer, which means great worship vocals.

2. Find and stay on your part.

Tenors usually gravitate toward the harmony right above the melody (following the major-third part of the chord progression); altos usually gravitate toward the harmony part above the tenor (following the fifth-note of the chord progression). Sometimes the melody will require the tenor and alto to “flip” parts, where the alto takes the major-third above the melody and the tenor takes the fifth, this time below the melody. For great worship vocals good harmony singers will be able to “flip” parts when needed. Avoid absolute parallel singing—it leads to an occasional gospel seventh and sixth, which may not be desirable for modern rock-styles of worship.

3. Unison, two-part and three-part harmony.

Start songs with either a solo lead vocal or a unison group vocal to establish the melody for the congregation. Split off into either two- or three-part harmony in the chorus to create a bigger sound. A harmony part (tenor: third above melody) will make the second verse stand up a little more than the first verse, but leaves somewhere for the song to progress into chorus number two. Using this layering technique will help create differences between sections and will build musical interest. Some modern rock styles require less vocal harmony, so a simple harmony (third) above the melody in each chorus may be all that’s necessary.

Halloween Object Lesson: Make Pumpkin Pancakes With Children

By

ChildrensMinistry.com

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October 19, 2023

This Halloween object lesson isn’t only fun. It’s also yummy! Plus, it has a great Bible-based message for kids.

In this object lesson, children help make Halloween-themed pumpkin pancakes. Then they learn how new life springs from death. With Halloween being a spooky and scary time for kids, opportunity abounds. Teachers and parents can demonstrate that as Christians, we don’t need to be afraid.

This Halloween object lesson illustrates the cycle of death and resurrection. Plus, it ends with some really yummy pumpkin pancakes! You can do this with your family or a small group of kids at church. Or turn the activity into a harvest pancake breakfast. Invite families and volunteers to come together for great food and fellowship.

Halloween Object Lesson: Pumpkin Pancakes

You’ll need:

Bible (Romans 6:11)
instant pancake mix
eggs
milk
canned pumpkin
cooking spray
measuring cups and spoons
electric frying pan or griddle
spatula
plates
forks
syrup

The Experience

Have kids wash their hands. Say: One reason Halloween can be so scary is that it focuses a lot on death. People often dress up as things that symbolize death, like ghosts or goblins. Some people decorate their yards like graveyards. But as Christians, we don’t need to fear death. This Halloween, let’s see what death means for us.

Preheat the electric frying pan. Then invite kids to help you prepare the pancakes by measuring and mixing the ingredients. Follow directions on the instant pancake mix. Add 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin for every cup of instant pancake mix.

Christian Artist Ben Fuller Encourages the Church To Be Authentic—‘I’ve Been Treated More Like Jesus’ by those Who Don’t Know Him

By

Jesse T. Jackson

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October 19, 2023

Ben Fuller, a Christian musician who grew up on a dairy farm in Southern Vermont, has been nominated for the Gospel Music Association’s (GMA) New Artist of the Year at this year’s Dove Awards.

Fuller wears his powerful testimony on his sleeve and never misses the opportunity to share how God saved a man who was addicted to drugs, alcohol, and immoral relationships. It wasn’t until his best friend died of a heroin overdose in 2017 that God laid it on Fuller’s heart to tell his story, pointing to hope can be found in Jesus.

In 2022, Fuller released an eight-song record titled “Who I Am,” and his highly anticipated self-titled album is scheduled to be released on Friday (Oct. 20).

At this year’s red carpet event at the Dove Awards, Fuller told ChurchLeaders that he doesn’t “deserve to be on this carpet. So I’m just praising God [that he] opened the doors for me to be here.”

Fuller is currently on the “Where The Joy Is Tour” with We Are Messengers and Cochren & Co. He described the experience as “a gift…to be able to speak life and to speak God’s word over people” every night.

Fuller explained that he calls their nightly performances “for-reals” instead of “shows” because his life is really on display.

Fuller wishes more Christians were authentic about their struggles and shortcomings.

“I’m going to be straight up honest with you,” Fuller said. “I have been treated more like Jesus from people that don’t know Jesus out on the road—homeless people, people dealing with drug addiction, and people helping with the production crew at the end of the night loading the trucks.”

Fuller encouraged Christians to “just be real and let’s just be honest with each other.” Fuller admitted that he knows “how hard that looks, especially with an image and trying to uphold things. But I’ve just found out when I go onstage and I say that I had a gun in my mouth when I was 16 years old,” it pulls back the curtain and allows others to understand that they too “can talk about” their struggles.

‘We’re Christians First,’ Faith-Filled Baltimore Orioles Players Attest

By

Stephanie Martin

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October 19, 2023

Despite winning 101 games this season, the Baltimore Orioles were swept in the American League Divisional Series by the Texas Rangers. Amid the disappointment of an early playoff exit, however, several players spoke out about their Christian faith and the bonds they’ve formed as believers.

Baltimore sports anchor Mark Viviano recently gained insight into the spiritual lives of some Orioles and shared their quotes on air at WJZ News. Based on the MLB players’ comments, faith unites them during the ups and downs of pro sports while motivating them to shine Christ’s light in the community.

Baltimore Orioles Share ‘Brotherhood of Faith’

Viviano’s story about Christians on the team was sparked by an unusual incident he witnessed. Before a game, Tyler Wells knelt to write something with his finger in the pitching-mound dirt. When Viviano asked about it, the pitcher indicated it was a tribute to a sick relative.

During their subsequent conversation, “Wells went on to talk about faith, fellowship & Bible study shared by a sizable group of @Orioles players & their families,” Viviano shared on social media. “It was clear that their brotherhood in faith furthered their bond as teammates.”

Wells named several Orioles teammates who’ve been a “big influence” on his faith. “You have guys who aren’t afraid to talk about it,” he told the sports reporter.

The Orioles’ youngest player, 22-year-old Gunnar Henderson, described weekly Bible studies and chapel services, saying, “It’s really cool to spend time and be in fellowship with those guys.” The shortstop said it was especially meaningful to have people to “lean on” and to share the “love of Christ” with during his rookie season.

Pitcher Danny Coulombe confirmed that a lot of Orioles “prioritize” their faith in Christ. “For me, and most [of] the guys, it is the most important thing in our life, even more than baseball,” he said. “We’re Christians first, and then we’re baseball players second.”

Coulombe, who was traded to Baltimore in March, uses his platform to talk about his faith while raising awareness about autism. He and wife Lauren have a 4-year-old son, Theo, who is neurodivergent, and they say they love him exactly how God made him.

British University To Offer Degree In Witchcraft; Al Mohler Says Similar Programs Will ‘Spread Like a Virus’

By

Dale Chamberlain

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October 19, 2023

The University of Exeter, a school with four locations in southwest England, is set to offer a Master of Arts in Magic and Occult Science beginning in September 2024.

The interdisciplinary one-year program will allow students to “explore key topics including magic in Greece and Rome, occult texts in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, the history of witchcraft, magic in literature and folklore, deception and illusion, and the history of science and medicine, among other key themes.”

Emily Selove, head of the new program and associate professor in medieval Arabic literature at Exeter, told The New York Times that the idea for the degree was sparked after the university faculty noticed an uptick in interest among students about the history of witchcraft.

“This MA will allow people to re-examine the assumption that the West is the place of rationalism and science, while the rest of the world is a place of magic and superstition,” Selove told the BBC.

The program is being offered by the university’s Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies in an effort to “place the Arabo-Islamic cultural heritage back where it belongs in the centre of these studies and in the history of the ‘West.'”

The degree’s description says that the decolonization, “exploration of alternative epistemologies,” feminism, and anti-racism are “at the core” of the program.

While the University of Exeter is the first British university to offer a degree in witchcraft, others have paved the way for academic study of the occult with programs of their own, including the University of Amsterdam.

In the U.S., Rice University in Texas offers a certificate program in gnosticism, esotericism, and mysticism.

That program seeks to provide students with “a theoretical orientation, which they then can apply to their chosen concentrations or focus areas of study,” which may include “African-American religions; African religions; Bible and Beyond; Buddhism; Christianity; Hinduism; Islam; Judaism; American Religion; New Age and New Religious Movements, New Testament and Early Christianity; etc.”

Albert Mohler, president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, criticized the University of Exeter and other universities offering courses or certificates in magic and witchcraft, arguing that society is being “progressively evacuated of Christian content.”

Caedmon’s Call Band Member Dressed in Drag Alongside Flamy Grant at the 54th Annual Dove Awards

By

Janna Firestone

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October 19, 2023

Derek Webb Flamy Grant Semler — Screengrab via X / @derekwebb

After years as a member of the Christian band Caedmon’s Call, Derek Webb navigated a couple of decades as a successful solo artist. Earlier this week, he, along with his friends Flamy Grant and Semler, posed for pictures all while dressed in drag. They were headed to the 54th annual Dove Awards—aiming to “expose, promote and celebrate the Gospel through music.”

It’s the “Christian Music Prom,” posted Semler alongside photos of the trio getting ready for the awards show.

Derek Webb Proudly Wore a Dress to the Dove Awards

It’s unclear who prompted the trio to get ready together and head to the Dove Awards all dressed in drag. Webb, Flamy Grant, and Semler took a number of photos while they prepared for the evening and while they were headed to the awards show.

Alongside a photo of himself with Flamy Grant and Semler, Webb added the caption, “54th annual Dove awards, here we come.”

With nearly 300,000 views and hundreds of reactions, fans around the world are eager to give their opinions of Webb’s wardrobe choice.

One simply said, “Hard pass.” Many others quoted Scripture standing against Webb’s choice don a dress.

However, another took a softer approach to his support. “I’m happy you’re happy, Derek. Caedman’s [sic] Call helped me so much during my beginning walk with Jesus,” the comment read. “You also introduced me to Rich Mullins. I will forever have your back. Love you.”

“I am deeply saddened by the deception that has disillusioned you into believing that God condones homosexuality and transgenderism,” commented someone else. “That said, I clicked on your link to listen to one of your songs and I am astonished by what I heard.”

This Isn’t the First Time Derek Webb and Flamy Grant Have Worked Together

Webb and Flamy Grant both have publicly supported the LGBTQ+ community while navigating successful Christian music careers. Flamy Grant is an openly queer man who often dresses in drag. Grant said, “I’m a singing/songwriting drag queen named after arguably the most successful Christian artist of all time.”

54th annual dove awards, here we come. pic.twitter.com/USPiTnIT5n

— Derek Webb (@derekwebb) October 17, 2023

Grant has joined a lawsuit against Tennessee’s Anti-Drag Act. “I think it’s an issue of defending our First Amendment rights as artists, queer people and as citizens,” said Grant.

Lonely Leaders

By

Full Strength Network

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October 19, 2023

Pastoral leadership — Source: Lightstock

The headcount of pastors leaving ministry roles is staggering sometimes. You most likely know of a pastor who has left full-time ministry or is thinking about it. And when asked about the reason behind this, the most common responses include:

Money
Moral failing
Frustrations
Burnout
Busyness
Stress
Family difficulties

These are the commonly cited issues deterring pastors from continuing on in their ministry roles. And there are many others as well. But what if we have missed a core reason for these pastors’ departures? What if there was a deeper reason lurking under the surface?

As surprising as it may sound, many pastors actually leave ministry for one reason: Loneliness. Loneliness isn’t as understandable though. It almost seems selfish to say “ministry is lonely.” After all, if there is one job in the world where you are often around people, wouldn’t ministry be that job?

But it could be argued that there is no other job in the world where you can be so lonely, all while constantly being around people. The pulpit is a lonely place. Pastoral leadership is a lonely place. Any time we are lonely, we are susceptible to extreme discouragement. The rising pressures of leading a church bring additional stress and the potential for loneliness as well.

In the midst of loneliness and discouragement, it’s easy to lose sight of our calling. You might find a lack of support from certain people. You might find discouragement when you consider various team members. But what does God say about our role? About your calling? His voice matters most.

We’d like to offer four helpful ways you can make sure loneliness doesn’t rob you from the joy of ministry….

1. Find Strength in the Saints

Through stories of past saints, we can find fulfillment and encouragement knowing that they too dealt with loneliness. David, in his isolation and loneliness, was led to remember God’s faithfulness. You can read his personal responses and reflections all throughout the Psalms. Elijah, in his discouragement and defeat, was met with a practical need from God—food! Your feelings of loneliness and discouragement are valid, but the invitation here is to see how God wants to meet you and reconcile. Time and time again in Scripture, God shows up for the lonely. And their reward is greater than any momentary feelings of despair.

2. Find Substance in Scripture

Scripture is what sustains us. In it we find the beautiful reminder that we never walk alone. Verse after verse gives us the assurance that we have a God named Emmanuel (God with us). If he is always with us, then we are never alone.

How Christians View This Brief Life Differently

By

Eric Geiger

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October 19, 2023

Christians and the broader culture agree with the declaration to “make the most of the time!” The Apostle Paul exhorted Christians to make the most of the time (Ephesians 5:15), and there are countless articles, blogs, and books written with advice to make the most of the time. We see constant reminders of the brevity and fragility of life, and there is general agreement to make the most of life. Though Christians agree with the culture about the short duration of life, our views are different on how we respond.

The culture says you are the owner of your time, your gifts, and your resources. Christians believe that God is the owner and we are stewards—that God owns all resources, positions, time, and abilities and gives them to humanity as good and gracious gifts. We steward for a brief season, but He is the owner.

The culture says you must achieve meaning in your life. It is on you to add meaning and significance to your work, your relationships, and even your existence. It’s a lot of pressure to get that right! Christians believe that Christ invites us to receive meaning from Him. If we surrender to Jesus, He is the One who gives us meaning and worth. He redeems even the smallest details of our lives for our good.

The culture says make the most of your life because you only live once (YOLO). Christians believe we should make the most of our lives because we live forever and being faithful with what He entrusts to us matters for eternity. We receive eternal life based on His grace and that includes Heaven when we leave this world. Heaven is not going to be sitting in a diaper on a cloud with a harp. We are going to have responsibilities in Heaven—responsibilities we enjoy. Jesus taught multiple parables (Matthew 25, Luke 19) declaring that what we steward forever will be based on our stewardship now. In everlasting life what we will manage is directly related to our faithfulness here. How we steward here will impact what we steward there.

Make the most of life! Yes. But for the Christian this means not living as an owner but living as a grateful and faithful steward. Not living with the pressure to bring meaning but receiving meaning from the One who gave Himself for us. And not thinking we only live once but remembering that we will enjoy Christ forever. Those beliefs don’t make us less helpful and effective in this world, but more so. C.S. Lewis wrote:

If you read history, you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this world.

This article originally appeared here and is used by permission.

5 Elements of Worship for a Great Service

By

Don Chapman

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October 19, 2023

God does what He does when He wants to. There’s no special formula to create a worship service with a worshipful atmosphere. But with a humble heart, consider these elements of worship that will encourage an attitude of worship in the hearts of your people.

5 Elements of Worship for a Great Service

1. Pray.

Among elements of worship this goes without saying, but how often do we get so caught up in the job of worship leading that we forget why we do what we do? Pray as you plan, pray as you perform. Pray that God will reveal Himself to the hearts of His people. Ever hear the saying “Work like it all depends on you and pray like it all depends on God”? I think that motto is fitting here. What good is all the work we do as worship leaders if the Lord isn’t in it? Why bother?

Ever had a Sunday when everything went like clockwork and the congregation yawned? Conversely, have you ever had things go completely wrong in your service, only to have God show up? (I think He does this to teach us that it’s all about Him, not us!) This isn’t an excuse to be lazy, I believe in working and planning ahead to avoid a glitch that might distract the congregation.

2. On a foundation of familiarity, throw in something different.

If you generally begin your music with up-tempo songs, try starting once in a while with a mid-tempo song or ballad to build tension, and follow it with songs that rock. This throws the congregation—they get a little antsy during a starting ballad and seem to release their pent up energy when the upbeat songs kick in.

Watch an example of this at Brookwood, the church where I play keys, at 9:13 in the video below. Worship pastor Brantley Smith programmed Tomlin’s ballad “I Will Rise” to start our Easter service. Notice how the song starts tenderly with vocalist Julio Ruiz, me on the piano and cellist Sharon Mulfinger Gerber (catch her spectacular pre-service rendition of “Christ the Lord” with her looping pedal at 5:15). It employs the elements of worship: the song slowly builds and continues into an upbeat Easter celebration.

3. Longer, heartfelt prayer.

I remember once when a woman on the worship team prayed a touching, spontaneous prayer in the middle of our praise set that gripped the congregation. I quietly played the keyboard while she prayed, transitioning into the key of the next song that was coming up.

What Is Gossiping? (It’s More Than You Think)

By

Matthew Mitchell

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October 19, 2023

You don’t want to be a gossip. There is no upside to being one. Gossips hurt neighbors, divide friends, and damage reputations and relationships. The Bible labels gossips as untrustworthy and meddlesome (Proverbs 11:13; 20:19; 26:20; 1 Timothy 5:13) — and even as worthy of death (Romans 1:29, 32). At your best in Christ, you don’t want to be one.

All too often, however, you and I do want to gossip. Gossiping can be fun and addictive and provide a short burst of guilty pleasure. The book of Proverbs likens the words of a gossip to “delicious morsels,” a tasty treat that promises delight to those who indulge (Proverbs 18:8; 26:22). We get bored and want to entertain ourselves by snacking on the shameful stories of other people’s lives. Or we get proud that we know something that someone else doesn’t and want to show off our inside scoop. Or we get mad and crave the satisfaction of character assassination from afar, sniping at our enemies when they don’t even know they’re in danger. Gossip can be hard to resist.

But gossip isn’t just hard to resist; it’s hard to define. We don’t always know when we’re being a gossip. It slips into our conversations, and its definition slips by us. So, what exactly makes gossip gossip? We need some handholds.

What Is Gossiping?

The Scriptures do not provide a definition of gossip in one location. Instead, they describe gossip in action and intimately tie it to the character of the people participating in this tantalizing sin. The Bible often uses the word gossip to describe a kind of person more than just a pattern of communication.

Participants at Vatican Synod Divided on How To Respond to War in the Holy Land

By

Claire Giangrave

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October 19, 2023

VATICAN CITY (RNS) — While little news has emerged about the discussions on the Catholic Church’s future going on at the Synod on Synodality here, those sequestered in the synod’s meeting halls have made no secret of their concerns about the violence unfolding in the Holy Land. But though the consciences of the prelates, priests and laypeople appear to be shaken, opinions on how to respond to the Israel-Hamas war remain divided.

The synod, taking place at the Vatican Oct. 4-29, has been called to discuss some of the most urgent issues facing the church, including female ordination and the welcoming of LGBTQ Catholics.

The attack by Hamas terrorist forces in Israel has been a recurring topic for the 364 synod members, especially among the small working groups, insiders say, since open hostilities began Oct. 7. On Thursday (Oct. 12), synod participants prayed for peace in the Holy Land, and on Tuesday, synod organizers did not offer any of the refreshments usually laid out for participants, intending to encourage a day of fasting and prayer called for by the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa.

During Wednesday’s morning Mass for synod participants in St. Peter’s Basilica, Lithuanian Bishop Gintaras Grušas asked to pray for “those who lack peace these days: in Israel, in Palestine, in the Ukraine and in other places throughout the world. Through our prayers, let us be channels of God’s peace in today’s world.”

Some participants, saying a war taking place in the birthplace of Christianity should not be ignored, urged the assembly to issue a formal statement on the conflict. But given the diversity of the synod’s participants, the prospect was soon mired in debate, chiefly about how strongly the synod should condemn Hamas militants given Israel’s policies in Gaza and the West Bank.

The head of the Focolare Movement, Margaret Karram, who is Palestinian, said to the assembly on Thursday: “I asked myself: What am I doing here? Should I not do something else to promote peace at this time? But then I said to myself: Here too I can join Pope Francis’ call and everyone’s prayer.”

The patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church, Cardinal Louis Sako, whose seat is in Iraq, led prayers asking for the end of this “absurd war” before a crowd including Catholics from Baghdad, Ukraine, Moscow and Iran.

In a post on X on Wednesday, the Rev. Antonio Spadaro, undersecretary for the Vatican’s Dicastery for Culture and Education, commented on the challenges facing the synod’s working groups in a climate of war and division. “This is also the evangelical power of the synod,” he wrote. Sitting at a discussion table with prelates from Russia and Ukraine, he said, “it’s clear to me that we are openly challenging the leading bperspective of society, which reduces consent to power tactics,” he said.

Ukrainian Catholics said a statement on the crisis in the Holy Land should include a pronouncement on the war in their country after the invasion by Russian forces. Synod participants from Africa pointed to the conflicts in South Sudan, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia and the many other often forgotten African countries, asking whether they should be given equal attention.

“Recently the Holy Father said that we are celebrating this synod in a time of war,” said Cardinal Mario Grech, the secretary-general of the synod, in an online post Tuesday. “During these days some of the members of the synod underlined that in their countries there are conflicts, tensions and wars so we are here to pray every day, we are praying to the Lord to send the gift of peace to all.”

The synod has felt outside pressure to make a statement on the war as well. Rabbi Noam Marans, the American Jewish Committee’s director of interreligious and intergroup relations, chided the synod in an interview with the Italian newspaper Il Messaggero for failing to condemn “the inhuman atrocities of Hamas,” calling it “a missed opportunity for moral clarity.”

3 Subtle Ways to Redirect Awkward Conversations

By

Evan Doyle

-

October 19, 2023

Awkward conversations in small groups are uncomfortable! It doesn’t take long in a group setting for a challenging conversation to take place. Leaders should be ready to guide awkward conversations in small groups toward fruitfulness. When the discussion is not on task it becomes easy for others to check out.

Rather than wondering what you should have said or what others must have been thinking, be proactive in leading the conversation by keeping the following tips in mind:

Awkward Conversations

1. Pray For Wisdom In the Moment.

Additional prayer is always good but especially when a discussion begins to take place that enters into deep waters or controversial subjects. When conversations get awkward start praying. Ask God for wisdom, truth, and discernment.

James 1:5-6 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.

Knowing when to continue awkward conversations or to stop them (and what to say) requires the wisdom of God.

Youth Talk Tips: How to Share Powerful Messages With Teens

By

Benjamin Kerns

-

October 18, 2023

One youth talk made a huge impact on me. After giving it, I sat wondering what in the world had just happened. My heart was beating out of my chest. My mind was racing, trying to figure out where I had lost the teen listeners. Where did I go wrong?

Before I had a chance to figure it out or slow my heartrate, I heard a knock at the door. I was about to throw up. To my horror, the camp director stood there. I knew he’d come but didn’t expect him so soon.

I invited him in, and he sat across from me. “Everything OK?” he asked. “That was a little rough.” Before I could respond, the director filled me in on plan B. I was welcome to stay in the cabin and enjoy the rest of my time at camp. But he would finish the youth talks.

I couldn’t believe it! Actually, the worst part is that I could believe it! What happened? I’m a youth ministry veteran, a compelling speaker, and a likable person. I’d just wasted 45 minutes of the opening night youth talk sharing the historical background and complexities of Ephesians. I was setting the stage for a weekend study of the book, filled with four exegetically amazing outlines. Although my preaching professor would’ve been proud, the room packed with high schoolers was completely lost.

From the moment I looked up from my notes, halfway through my youth talk, I realized I’d lost my audience. As I finished the sermon, my mind scrambled with what to do. My mouth was still unpacking Paul. But my mind was arguing with my professor, with these students, and with my own calling.

Thankfully, the camp director was a good friend and was extra gracious. In our discussion, I figured out my problem and solution. I told him I’d scrap my sermons and put together a great series of youth talks. And that’s exactly what I did.

A Fresh Look at Giving a Youth Talk

That was the culminating experience that officially helped me deflate my gigantic, overinflated, seminary-trained head and settle into my calling as a pastor to students. Until then, I’d been increasingly attempting to gain favor with my senior pastor, parents, and fellow students. I’d wanted to prove that youth pastors are real pastors and that we shouldn’t dumb down Scripture. But in my attempt to satisfy all these people and prove my worth, I had made the Bible completely irrelevant.

I’m not saying you should dumb down a youth talk or that exegesis is unimportant. Instead, we must always keep listeners in mind. As you unpack God’s Word for teens, remember that we are prophets for our people. Students need clear, memorable, applicable teaching. And even more than the teaching, they need space to unpack what they hear.

When I first started in youth ministry, a veteran shared their outline to me. It’s simple, straightforward, and even rhymes. I used it religiously as my structure for youth ministry. Seminary was a short and awful hiatus from this structure.

Ever since my disastrous sermon at camp, this has been my go-to outline. (If you know whose this is officially, please let me know so I can thank them for saving my youth ministry career.)

A Handy Structure for Youth Messages

Here’s the most amazing structure ever used for youth talks: Hook, Book, Look, Took!

Hook: This is the classic funny or compelling story you use to gain the group’s attention while addressing the topic at hand.
Book: This is the Bible passage you’re teaching on.
Look: Here you teach through three points from the Bible passage. The simplest plan is to communicate a point and illustrate it with a story or example. These three points can be an acronym, alliteration, whatever clever tool you want. It’s the meat of the lesson.
Took: Give students a takeaway from the lesson. We want Scripture to mold and shape us. This is the part of the youth talk where you give examples of practical application.

Bonus: Small-Group Questions

For our youth group, we end every lesson with students forming small groups. They meet to unpack the lesson and figure out how to put it into practice in real life.

I know this isn’t rocket science. But maybe you’ve been struggling with the format for your youth talks. Maybe you’ve drifted into complexity. Or maybe you’re brand new to teen ministry and have no idea where to start. If that’s you, I hope this simple format helps.

This is simply the outline an average youth pastor uses. If you’re a brilliant communicator, please share your structure and your tricks. Keep preaching it!

UPDATE: Liberty University Faces $37.4 Million Fine From US Department of Education, According to LU President

By

Stephanie Martin

-

October 18, 2023

UPDATED Oct 18, 2023: Liberty University (LU) is facing an “unprecedented fine” in the amount of $34.7 million, according to university president, Dr. Dondi E. Costin. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Costin stated his belief that the U.S. Education Department leaked a copy of a preliminary report on an investigation it is conducting against the university as a way to levy the fine against it.

The Education Department has been looking into whether LU violated the Clery Act, which requires American universities that receive federal aid to disclose annual statistics about campus crime and safety.

“The most damaging element of this whole process is the fact that for the first time that any of us are aware, the Department of Education leaked a preliminary report while we are in the process of negotiating with the department about all the advancements that we’ve made,” said Costin. “And so that’s the biggest issue. The leak is intentionally aimed at laying the groundwork for an unprecedented fine and the report is filled with factual errors that the Department has admitted to Liberty in their negotiations.”

Save71, a group of alumni, students, and faculty calling for new leadership at Liberty, pushed back on Costin’s claim, calling it “a Falwell-like move.” The group suggested it could have been an LU board member who leaked the report.

ChurchLeaders original article written on Oct. 4, 2023, below.

While investigating Liberty University, federal officials reportedly found that a campus-wide culture of silence discourages victims from reporting crimes. The private Christian school in Lynchburg, Virginia, also might be underreporting criminal complaints it receives, trying to maintain its reputation of safety.

The U.S. Department of Education has been investigating whether Liberty complies with the Clery Act, a 1990 law that requires U.S. colleges participating in federal financial aid programs to disclose annual statistics about campus crime and safety.

The findings aren’t final and haven’t been made public. But media outlets that obtained copies say the report includes accusations of sexual violence against a former Liberty president and a senior administrator. It also alleges that Liberty officials destroyed evidence by wiping hard drives and shredding documents.

Some Liberty students and employees say the school’s honor code, called the Liberty Way, prevents victims of crime—especially of sexual violence—from making reports and going public. The code includes references to chastity, appropriate dress, and prohibitions against alcohol and drugs.

Liberty University issued a statement saying it is cooperating with federal officials and “continues to prioritize safety and security for all students, faculty, and staff.” The school, which has more than 90,000 students, was founded in 1971 by televangelist Jerry Fallwell Sr. and Elmer Towns. Jerry Falwell Jr. served as university president from 2007 to 2020, when he was ousted amid scandals.

Reported Allegations Against Liberty University

The Washington Post, which obtained a copy of the preliminary report, said Liberty “failed to warn the campus community about gas leaks, bomb threats, and people credibly accused of repeated acts of sexual violence—including a senior administrator and an athlete.” Education Department investigators reportedly found that Liberty leaders instructed the school’s police department not to issue warnings or alert the campus community to possible threats of crime.

‘Satan-Drenched Theology’—Rosaria Butterfield Weighs In on Unconditional Conference, Andy Stanley’s Teachings on LGBTQ+ Issues

By

Dale Chamberlain

-

October 18, 2023

Writer and speaker Rosaria Butterfield has added her voice to the chorus of people speaking out against the Unconditional Conference, a controversial event recently held at Andy Stanley’s North Point Community Church that was aimed at helping parents cultivate healthy relationships with their LGBTQ+ children.

The Unconditional Conference came under fire when it was revealed that most of the keynote speakers held to LGBTQ+ affirming theology, including two married gay men. Stanley has since stated that neither he nor North Point Community Church have changed their views on marriage and sexuality, though many critics remain unconvinced.

Butterfield’s remarks about the conference came on “The Great Awokening“ podcast, which is hosted by Josh Daws.

To preface the conversation, Daws expressed his belief that Andy Stanley and North Point Community Church have “departed from biblical Christianity.” Daws further explained that he felt he needed “to speak up” in light of the fact that he worked on the North Point staff “in various capacities” from 2004 to 2013.

Throughout the interview, Butterfield was freewheeling in her criticism of those within the American evangelical church who she feels have not adequately addressed the sexual sins of the culture.

Discussing her personal journey of going from being a lesbian and an activist for LGBTQ+ rights to being a pastor’s wife and a grandma, Butterfield expressed concern about the theology held by many evangelical leaders today, referring to organizations like Revoice conference and individuals like theologian Preston Sprinkle as “all of that heresy” and “false teaching.”

She went on to criticize author Jen Wilkin for favorable view of public school education, which Butterfield believes is a feeding ground for LGBTQ+ indoctrination. Butterfield remarked, “You gotta know what time it is.”

Butterfield further accused evangelicals of drinking “from the well of David French,” a Christian author and legal expert, because “pluralism sounds much, much more accommodating than the gospel.”

Speaking directly about North Point’s Unconditional Conference, Butterfield said, “I mean, I just couldn’t stomach it. There’s just not enough Tums in the closet for me to listen to too much Andy Stanley.”

“You just kind of wonder whether any of these people ever took a logic class,” she added, saying that the teaching presented at the Unconditional Conference was based on “emotional, manipulative analogies.”

Butterfield alleged that Stanley has turned trans children into the “totem” of an evil age, saying, “You’re all just marching behind the totem of this trans child, and you are doing damage.”

More Than Just Forgiveness: A Theology of Grace

By

Ray Hollenbach

-

October 18, 2023

How big is God’s grace? Grace is scattered like stars on a cloudless night. Grace is fathomless as the ocean depths. Grace inexhaustible. Grace is forever fresh. Grace is boundless and free.

This is the wonder of God’s grace: It’s as big as the sky and as close as your next breath. Grace is insubstantial and ethereal—nothing more than an idea—an idea that continues to change the world. Grace is love made practical. Grace empowers. Grace cares not for the argument but for the people arguing. Grace has an agenda beyond the truth. Grace turns its nose up at winning the fight and aims instead to win the person. God’s grace plays the long game.

John’s gospel opens with words of grace: “From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another” (John 1:16, NIV). Apparently the good folks who translated the New International Version were challenged by the more literal rendering of this verse: “From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace” (New Revised Standard Version). The NIV substitutes “one blessing after another” for “grace upon grace.”

But why argue over translation? John was searching for a way to communicate that God’s grace is continuous and multilayered. If we walk with the Lord 50 years, we will still discover again and again the God who beckons us (in C.S. Lewis’ happy phrase) to come “further up and further in.” But take note: If we are determined to think of grace as merely a ticket to heaven, there is no further up and further in, either in this life or the next. Why come to the shores of God’s grace only to dip our toes in the ocean?

The only unsatisfying part of God’s grace is it’s too big to comprehend. “If grace is an ocean,” says singer John Mark McMillan, “we’re all sinking.” But would we want it any other way?

Three Movements of God’s Grace

The more I read the New Testament, the more all-encompassing grace becomes. Instead of presenting grace only as a repeatable sin-cleansing bargain, Scripture presents a grace that continues to reach into our lives day after day in more ways than we expect. The Apostle Paul wrote to a young pastor about three movements of God’s grace:

The grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. (Titus 2:11–14).

Many believers have never heard these verses declared from the pulpit. Grace appears in the passage with phrases like “self-controlled” or “upright and godly lives.” What kind of grace is this? We thought grace meant getting off scot-free, but apparently grace wants to teach us a new way to live in Christ.

Grace That Brings Salvation

Let’s break this passage down: Most believers are very familiar with the first phrase, “the grace that brings salvation.” That’s the first movement of grace, and it’s glorious.

J.I. Packer instructed us, “In the New Testament grace means God’s love in action toward those who merited the opposite of love. Grace means God moving heaven and earth to save sinners who could not lift a finger to save themselves.” Praise God for salvation! We are very comfortable with this understanding of grace. But there’s more.

Grace That Teaches

These verses in Titus also give us a second movement of grace: Not many churchgoers have ever heard of a grace that “teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly passion.” Have you considered the fact that God’s grace can teach us how to say “no” to the worldly passions of life? Grace helps us resist the pressures of this age—we don’t have to do it in our own strength.

Grace That Empowers

Third, we discover that God’s grace goes beyond resistance and opens up new possibilities of life in Christ, “to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.” Most believers are familiar with a saving grace capable of securing heaven after we die but have never considered the possibility that God’s grace can nurture us in this present age. God’s grace is after more than wiping the slate clean week after week. The grace of God wants to teach us a new way to live. If grace is the teacher, then we are the students, and this life is the classroom. Students of Jesus understand that God’s grace not only transports us to heaven when we die, it brings heaven close to us while we live.

4 Types of Anonymous Critics

Fearful

Pleaser

Troublemaker

Passive

What Unforgiveness Does to Your Brain:

1. Rumination:

2. Diminished memory:

3. Amplified negative emotions:

4. Schadenfreude:

Words of Encouragement for Leaders

1. Thank you for being on the small-group team with me. I am really grateful I have the opportunity to do this with you.

2. You are a very special leader, someone I truly admire.

3. There are a lot of people who could’ve done what you’re doing. Personally, I’m really glad you agreed to lead a group because it makes it possible for me to get to hang out with you some.

4. I’m hearing great things about you from your group members. You must be doing a super job.

5. When I asked you to be a group leader, I knew you’d be super, but I didn’t realize you’d exceed my expectations this much.

6. Would you pray for me? I’ve come to admire your walk with God so much… I’d be honored if you would.

7. If you have some time, I’d love to take you to lunch and pick your brain. I’m hearing things from your group members that are really exciting. I’d love to hear what you’re doing and learn from you.

Choose Your Focus

Great Worship Vocals

1. Confidence.

2. Find and stay on your part.

3. Unison, two-part and three-part harmony.

Halloween Object Lesson: Pumpkin Pancakes

You’ll need:

The Experience

Baltimore Orioles Share ‘Brotherhood of Faith’

Derek Webb Proudly Wore a Dress to the Dove Awards

This Isn’t the First Time Derek Webb and Flamy Grant Have Worked Together

1. Find Strength in the Saints

2. Find Substance in Scripture

5 Elements of Worship for a Great Service

1. Pray.

2. On a foundation of familiarity, throw in something different.

3. Longer, heartfelt prayer.

What Is Gossiping?

Awkward Conversations

1. Pray For Wisdom In the Moment.

A Fresh Look at Giving a Youth Talk

A Handy Structure for Youth Messages

Bonus: Small-Group Questions

Reported Allegations Against Liberty University

Three Movements of God’s Grace

Grace That Brings Salvation

Grace That Teaches

Grace That Empowers

New Articles

New Podcasts

**4. Schadenfreude:**