Bernice King Says Pastor Quoted Her Father ‘Out of Context’ During Trump Inauguration Prayer

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January 23, 2025

Dr. Bernice King, the youngest daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., has said that Pastor Lorenzo Sewell distorted the message of her father’s “most well-known speech” when Sewell quoted it while praying at the inauguration of President Donald Trump on Monday, Jan. 20. That day was also Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

“I don’t deny the power of my father’s most well-known speech, ‘I Have a Dream,’” said Bernice King, who is a minister, thought leader, and CEO of the King Center, on X Wednesday, Jan. 22. “However, its power and popularity (with focus on its conclusion) have been misused to weaken its clear messaging about ending racism, stopping police brutality, ensuring voting rights, and eradicating economic injustice.”

I don’t deny the power of my father’s most well-known speech, ‘I Have a Dream.’

However, its power and popularity (with focus on its conclusion) have been misused to weaken its clear messaging about ending racism, stopping police brutality, ensuring voting rights, and… pic.twitter.com/aULHDGYJYX

— Be A King (@BerniceKing) January 22, 2025

Lorenzo Sewell Prays ‘Americans Would Begin To Dream Again’

Lorenzo Sewell is the senior pastor of 180 Church in Detroit. He campaigned for Trump in 2024, appearing at the Republican National Convention and hosting Trump at his church. The pastor came under criticism for asking social media users later in the day Monday to purchase his cryptocurrency.

He also joined a chorus of church leaders criticizing Episcopal Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde for taking the final minutes of her message Tuesday, Jan. 21, to ask Trump to have “mercy upon the people in our country,” specifically immigrants and “gay, lesbian, and transgender children.”

“We are grateful that you are the one that have [sic] called [Trump] for such a time as this, that Americans would begin to dream again,” Lorenzo prayed during Trump’s inauguration, after giving God thanks for Trump’s “millimeter miracle.”

“We pray that we would fulfill the true meaning of our creed, that we hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal,” the pastor continued, quoting the Declaration of Independence. “We pray that you use our president, that we will live in a nation where we will not be judged by the color of our skin but by the content of our character.”

Sewell’s prayer Monday went on to directly quote and/or paraphrase a large section of the end of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, beginning with King’s quote of “My Country ‘Tis of Thee”: “My country, ‘tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. / Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim’s pride, / From every mountainside, let freedom ring!”

“Because America is called to be a great nation, we believe that you will make this come true,” said Sewell, rephrasing King’s words, which were, “And if America is to be a great nation, this must become true.”

Trump’s Executive Order Harms Persecuted Christians, Argues World Relief

By

Dale Chamberlain

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January 23, 2025

Donald Trump World Relief — Then-President-elect Donald Trump watching fireworks at Trump National Golf Club in Sterling, Va., Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, ahead of the 60th Presidential Inauguration. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Less than a week after Donald Trump’s inauguration, World Relief is calling on the president to reverse course on immigration policy, particularly with regard to an executive order suspending the United States Refugee Admission Program (USRAP).

World Relief argues that Trump’s course of action exacerbates humanitarian concerns, including for Christians fleeing persecution around the world.

World Relief is a Christian humanitarian organization whose mission is “to boldly engage the world’s greatest crises in partnership with the church.” For decades, the organization has worked to resettle refugees. World Relief has partnered with the U.S. State Department in its work since 1979.

World Relief Advocates for United States Refugee Admission Program in Light of Trump’s Executive Order

Ahead of Trump’s inauguration, World Relief published a statement urging Trump to support the continuance of the USRAP. The USRAP is a collaborative program involving several government agencies and nonprofit organizations and has a legacy of resettling refugees and displaced people since World War II.

“We are grateful for President Trump’s commitment to ensuring that our nation’s borders are strong and secure,” the statement said. “We also appreciate and affirm his recent call to ensure systems so that immigrants “with love for the country” are able “to come in legally.”

“The U.S. refugee resettlement program is a longstanding legal immigration process that also advances another value that President Trump has indicated is a high priority, protecting persecuted Christians and others fleeing religious persecution,” the statement went on to note. “Indeed, individuals persecuted for their faith in repressive countries who have been invited to experience religious and economic freedom in our great country are among the most grateful, America-loving individuals in the world.”

The statement was signed by a number of evangelical pastors and leaders, including Brent Leatherwood, who serves as president of the Southern Baptist Convention’s Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission; Dr. Walter Kim, who is president of National Association of Evangelicals; and Ryan Brown, who is president of Open Doors.

Nevertheless, Trump signed an executive order suspending the program on Jan. 20—Trump’s first day in office.

The executive order reads in part,

The United States lacks the ability to absorb large numbers of migrants, and in particular, refugees, into its communities in a manner that does not compromise the availability of resources for Americans, that protects their safety and security, and that ensures the appropriate assimilation of refugees. This order suspends the USRAP until such time as the further entry into the United States of refugees aligns with the interests of the United States.

Renewing Expository Preaching, Part 1: Why Verse-By-Verse Preaching Matters

By

Ed Stetzer

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January 23, 2025

Expository preaching plays a vital role in the life of the church.

The regular, faithful preaching of the Bible in weekly corporate worship services has endured as one of the most important qualities of the Christian faith. While various forms of preaching such as topical, textual, or narrative have their place, I’m convinced that expository preaching is the most vital way for pastors to continually teach God’s Word to their people.

At times, I’m asked why I prefer preaching through books of the Bible. This is particularly true when I’ve served in the role of interim pastor. I want to unpack my convictions on expository preaching—while noting other approaches—over these four articles. These are updated from an earlier series I published at my old Christianity Today blog.

In Part 1, I want to lay out some reasons why I believe verse-by-verse, expository preaching through books matters. In a day with so many opportunities to use technological resources to amplify our preaching, we who preach need to constantly renew our commitment to expositional preaching.

I don’t primarily preach this way because that method is commanded in the Bible, but because of the very nature of the Bible. As the Word of God without error and inspired throughout, God’s Word requires us to treat every word, phrase, and sentence accordingly. Thus, the Bible is best taught using an approach to preaching that explains what God has inspired, looking at the words, phrases, sentences, and sections in the process.

Because the Bible’s inspiration is word-for-word, the words of the Bible should set the agenda for the message taught or preached in a gathered worship service. In other words, this message should largely be the explanation of the inspired Word of God in the order and in the format that the Holy Spirit inspired the authors to write.

Thus, the preferred form of preaching is that which is driven by the text and where the text sets the agenda.

There are a number of benefits of expository preaching. Let me cite five here.

**1. It Reminds You To Preach All Scripture, Including the Parts You Might Otherwise Skip.**

As I preached through the Gospel of Matthew, I dealt with every verse I encountered. When I came to Chapter 19, I read Jesus’ very strong words about marriage and adultery being the allowable exception for divorce. It is a hard passage to preach, as his commands are countercultural for our day. Thus, as I preach through Matthew, I am forced to stand before the congregation with conviction, raising a view of marriage that Jesus said the world would not be able to handle. I do that because the text brings me there, just as the text might bring me to challenge racism, consumerism, or other issues facing modern listeners.

**2. It Reveals The Thoughts and Intents of the Authors of Scripture As They Were Led by the Spirit.**

As I preached through Matthew, I not only deal with the specific words and phrases, but I also help hearers to see bigger issues at play as Jesus makes his path to the cross. Matthew, under the Spirit’s guidance, reminds us of the countercultural values of the Kingdom. In other words, Matthew did not just haphazardly collect and write down these passages.

I am being more faithful and helpful as a preacher if I communicate to my people what Matthew said. This does not mean it has to be a boring, running commentary. But I would be ignoring part of the Holy Spirit’s inspiration if I did not preach the text as the author—and Author—delivered it.

**3. It Raises Up Self-Feeders, Helping Them Learn How To Read the Bible.**

As preachers of the Word, we seek to help disciples read the Bible more faithfully and effectively personally and with their families. Preaching through books helps to model such reading, as the Bible is not best read as a series of unrelated passages. Our preaching should encourage a better way to look at Scripture. By preaching through books of the Bible, I show people they can open books of the Bible, read them, and trace the thoughts and the arguments presented. By preaching in an expositional way through books, I can teach people to read the Bible well.

Healthy Vacations

By

Full Strength Network

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January 23, 2025

Healthy Vacations — Source: Lightstock #450503

Have you ever noticed how overworking within ministry can sometimes be applauded? The extended hours, evening meetings, and, of course, the weekends leave little space for rest or time away from work. While ministry is a calling and requires stewardship of the people in our church, we must always remember another stewardship calling God has called us to cultivate—our bodily health. We have the chance to reorient where we place our priorities.

Over the course of several years, the Duke Clergy Health Initiative conducted extensive research into the physical wellness of thousands of pastors. One of the more interesting and significant findings was the correlation between extended time off and heart health/blood pressure. While not surprising, it’s notable that the intentional action of taking vacations or incorporating rest as a regular rhythm contributed to better overall health.

Perhaps the following research points, taken from an article called, “Lowering Blood Pressure, One Day at A Time” from the Duke Clergy Health Initiative will help inform the priority level you place on your next vacation.

Vacations and Blood Pressure

There is a link between taking vacation days and the likelihood of lower blood pressure.

Findings from the Clergy Health Initiative suggest that the number of vacation days clergy take is inversely linked to the likelihood that they will have high blood pressure. That is, pastors who take less vacation time are more likely to report having high blood pressure than those who take more time away…Of those pastors in the survey who took no vacation during the previous year, 40% had been diagnosed with high blood pressure, compared to 37% of those who had taken one week of vacation and 34% of those who had taken two weeks.

Vacations and Heart Health

The landmark Framingham Heart Study, which began in the 1940s and spans three generations, found in 1992 that women who took infrequent vacations—once every six years or less—were significantly more likely to develop coronary disease than those who vacationed more frequently. Another study in 2000 found that middle-aged men who were at risk for coronary disease were less likely after nine years to die from heart problems if they took more frequent annual vacations.

The Body Under Stress

When the body is under stress, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, releasing chemicals that elevate blood pressure, heart rate, and total energy consumption. When the stressor passes, the parasympathetic nervous system releases chemicals that calm the body and mind, returning them to their normal state of balance, called allostasis.

The Body Under Prolonged Stress

When a person is subjected to prolonged or chronic stress, the allostatic system is thrown out of balance, exposing the body to longer periods of mental strain, increased energy consumption, higher blood pressure, and increased heart rate. Taking time off or otherwise separating oneself from work or other sources of stress allows the body to resume its allostatic balance.

Few Pastors Bank on Prosperity Gospel

By

Aaron Earls

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January 23, 2025

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — Many churchgoers say their church connects financial blessings with personal generosity, but most pastors see those ideas as bankrupt.

A Lifeway Research study of U.S. Protestant pastors finds few hold or teach beliefs connected to the prosperity gospel, the theological movement that teaches God wants to make followers materially wealthy and will do so if individuals hold certain beliefs or perform specific actions. A previous Lifeway Research study, however, found these beliefs much more prevalent among churchgoers, including many who said their church teaches these ideas.

RELATED: What Is the Prosperity Gospel?

“The large differences we see between pastor and churchgoer beliefs related to the prosperity gospel means pastors are often not the source of these beliefs among Protestants,” said Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research. “But the gap likely also means pastors are not teaching the reasons for their own convictions on the subject.”

Pastors’ positions and churchgoer confusion

Fewer than 1 in 10 (8%) Protestant pastors believe individuals must do something for God in order to receive material blessings from Him. Nine in 10 (90%) disagree, including 74% who disagree strongly. Few (2%) aren’t sure.

Similarly, fewer than 1 in 5 (18%) say their churches teach that if you give more money to the church and charities, God will bless the giver in return. Around 4 in 5 (79%) disagree, including 62% who disagree strongly. Just 3% aren’t sure.

Pastors are more split on whether God wants people to prosper financially. Still, only 37% agree, 59% disagree, with 31% disagreeing strongly, and 5% aren’t sure.

The widespread disagreement with these beliefs among U.S. Protestant pastors is not shared by those in their pews, however, according to a 2022 Lifeway Research study.

Whatever pastors may believe, many of those regularly attending churches agree with these three beliefs, and that number is growing.

Almost half (45%) of U.S. Protestant churchgoers say to receive material blessings from God they have to do something for God. The percentage that agrees has almost doubled from the 26% who agreed in a 2017 Lifeway Research study.

More than half (52%) say their church teaches that if they give more money, God will bless them, up from 38% five years earlier. Additionally, 3 in 4 Protestant churchgoers (76%) say God wants them to prosper financially, an increase from 69% in 2017.

“Nine in 10 pastors describe blessings from God based on grace rather than God owing people a reward for their actions. This is counter-intuitive for many in a culture that focuses on performance,” said McConnell.

Different pulpits, different teachings

While there may be confusion among many churchgoers about what their churches teach, some of the gaps between the average Protestant pastor and the average churchgoer could be traced to congregational differences.

Some pastors are more likely to say their churches teach doctrines related to prosperity gospel theology. In particular, churchgoers at larger congregations may be more likely to hear such teaching.

Protestant pastors of the largest churches, those with 250 or more in worship attendance, are among the least likely to reject the notion that their church teaches that if you give more money, God will bless you in return. Still, 70% disagree that their church promotes that teaching.

Pastors of these large congregations are also the most likely to believe God wants people to prosper financially (52%).

Independent Small Groups – Apart from a Church?

By

Staff

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January 23, 2025

Small groups have long been a cornerstone of church life, providing believers with opportunities for fellowship, spiritual growth, and mutual support. But as the nature of religious engagement evolves, many are questioning whether church small groups can thrive outside the formal structure of a church. While these groups have traditionally been rooted in a church community, recent trends suggest that independent small groups are not only possible but also increasingly common. Some believers are beginning to consider whether independent small groups can exist apart from association with a church, and the benefits and challenges that come with such a setup.

Independent Small Groups — Apart from a Church?

The Role of Church Small Groups

Church small groups typically serve as extensions of the larger congregation, fostering deeper relationships and encouraging spiritual growth in a more intimate setting. These groups often follow a curriculum aligned with the church’s teaching, providing a structured approach to Bible study, prayer, and discipleship. They are also a space where members can find accountability and support, helping them navigate life’s challenges with a faith-centered perspective.

However, as people seek more personalized and flexible ways to engage with their faith, small groups are emerging outside the traditional church framework. These independent groups often mirror the goals of church small groups while operating autonomously.

Benefits of Independent Small Groups

Flexibility and Accessibility

One of the primary advantages of small groups existing independently is the flexibility they offer. Without being tied to a church’s schedule or organizational structure, these groups can adapt their meeting times, locations, and activities to suit the needs of their members. This flexibility can make it easier for people with unconventional schedules or those living in remote areas to participate.

Focus on Shared Interests

Independent small groups often form around shared interests or life stages, such as young professionals, parents, or people passionate about a specific cause. This focus allows members to connect more deeply and tailor their discussions to topics that resonate with their unique experiences.

Inclusive Environment

By existing outside the boundaries of a specific church, independent small groups can create a more inclusive environment. People from different denominations or those who are hesitant to commit to a church may feel more comfortable participating in a group that is not tied to a particular institution.

See page two for the challenges of independent small groups.

10 of the Newest Trends in Church Management Software

By

Ray Hollenbach

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January 23, 2025

In recent years the digital landscape has transformed the way churches operate and manage their activities. Church management software (ChMS) has evolved significantly, providing congregations with innovative tools to streamline operations, foster engagement, and grow their communities. What are the latest trends in church management software in recent years and highlights how they are reshaping church administration.

10 Trends in Church Management Software

AI and Automation in Church Management Software

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation has made its way into church management software as well. AI-powered chatbots can handle routine inquiries, while automated workflows streamline repetitive administrative tasks. These technologies save time for church staff, enabling them to focus more on ministry and community-building efforts.

Enhanced User Experience and Accessibility

One of the most noticeable trends in church management software is the focus on improved user experience (UX) and accessibility. As more churches adopt digital tools, developers have prioritized creating intuitive interfaces that cater to both tech-savvy and less tech-inclined users. Mobile optimization has become a standard feature, allowing church leaders and members to access critical functions on the go. Features such as drag-and-drop dashboards, customizable workflows, and step-by-step onboarding processes are now common, ensuring that even smaller congregations can easily implement and use these tools.

Integrated Communication Tools

In a world increasingly reliant on digital communication, modern church management software now includes robust integrated communication tools. These features enable churches to centralize their messaging, whether through email, text, or app notifications. Automated reminders for events, personalized member outreach, and group communication channels help foster better connectivity within the congregation. This trend also reflects the growing importance of hybrid and virtual church services, with tools that facilitate live streaming, digital bulletins, and online worship engagement.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Another major development in the last three years is the emphasis on data analytics within church management software. Churches now have access to detailed insights about attendance, giving trends, and engagement metrics. These tools empower leaders to make informed decisions and tailor their ministries to better serve their communities. Predictive analytics, for instance, can identify patterns in member participation or financial contributions, helping churches plan for the future more effectively.

Improved Financial Management Features

Managing finances is a critical aspect of church administration, and recent advancements in church management software have made this task significantly easier. Many platforms now offer comprehensive tools for budgeting, tracking donations, and generating financial reports. Integration with payment platforms has also simplified online giving, enabling members to contribute seamlessly through mobile apps, websites, or text-to-give services. Some software even incorporates cryptocurrency donation options, reflecting broader shifts in digital finance.

Customizable Member Engagement Solutions

Personalization has become a key trend in church management software. Platforms are now designed to help churches understand their members on a deeper level. Through member profiles, churches can track individual preferences, spiritual journeys, and volunteer participation. This data enables targeted engagement strategies, such as personalized event invitations or tailored content recommendations, fostering a stronger sense of community.

Trump Tells Bishop Budde She Owes the Public an ‘Apology’ After Prayer Service Plea To Show Mercy

By

Jesse T. Jackson

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January 22, 2025

Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde Donald Trump — (L) Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde giving her sermon during the interfaith prayer service on Jan. 21, 2025. Screengrab via YouTube / @WFAA. (R) President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance attending the interfaith prayer service. Screengrab via YouTube / @Fox News

President Donald Trump told Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde that she owes the “public an apology” following the sermon she gave during the customary interfaith service of prayer at the Washington National Cathedral that was held the morning of Tuesday, Jan. 21.

The prayer service has taken place since Franklin D. Roosevelt became president in 1933 and has been held after nearly every presidential inauguration since.

Budde, who is the first woman ever to be elected and serve as the bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, gave a 14-minute message, most of which dealt with the importance of unity. Budde used the final minutes of her message to direct a plea towards Trump to have “mercy upon the people in our country.”

In the 2024 presidential election, Republican candidate Donald Trump beat Democratic candidate Kamala Harris by 312 electoral votes to 226. Trump also won the popular vote, with 77,301,997 versus 75,017,626.

Mariann Edgar Budde Pleads With Donald Trump ‘To Have Mercy Upon the People in our Country’

With Trump, his wife Melania, Vice President J.D. Vance, Vance’s wife Usha, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, members of Congress and members of Trump’s future cabinet in attendance, Budde looked at Trump and said:

Let me make one final plea, Mr. President. Millions have put their trust in you, and as you told the nation yesterday, you have felt the providential hand of a loving God. In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country. We’re scared now. There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and Independent families, some who fear for their lives. And the people, the people who pick our crops and clean our office buildings, who labor in poultry farms and meat packing plants, who wash the dishes after we eat in restaurants and work the night shifts in hospitals—they may not be citizens or have the proper documentation, but the vast majority of immigrants are not criminals. They pay taxes and are good neighbors. They are faithful members of our churches and mosques, synagogues, wadara and temples. I ask you to have mercy, Mr. President, on those in our communities whose children fear that their parents will be taken away and that you help those who are fleeing war zones and persecution in their own lands to find compassion and welcome here. Our God teaches us that we are to be merciful to the stranger, for we were all once strangers in this land. May God grant us the strength and courage to honor the dignity of every human being, to speak the truth to one another in love and walk humbly with each other and our God for the good of all people in this nation and the world.”

Cameras captured both Trump and Vance’s reactions while Budde was giving her plea, showing them both visibly displeased.

3 Doors Down Singer: Sharing Jesus’ Love Is the Greatest Thing I’ve Ever Done

By

Stephanie Martin

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January 22, 2025

Last summer, Brad Arnold had the opportunity to tell 680,000 people that Jesus loves them—and he’s not even a pastor. He’s the lead singer of rock band 3 Doors Down, as well as a former alcoholic.

Since rededicating his life to Christ, Arnold has boldly shared his faith with secular audiences. As ChurchLeaders reported, last August the singer asked a Pennsylvania crowd to repeat these words from the Apostle John: “I am the one that Jesus loves.”

Speaking to Pastor Allen Jackson on the “Culture and Christianity” podcast, Arnold described the overwhelming response to that message. “I expected some pushback,” he said, but “I got none.” Instead, concertgoers say his words are refreshing and life changing. Someone even wrote to say that Arnold’s words prevented a suicide.

Brad Arnold of 3 Doors Down Talks About Faith

In the Jan. 10 podcast episode, which has been viewed almost 20,000 times, Brad Arnold talked about his upbringing, the road to fame, and his return to the Lord. The youngest of seven children, he grew up in Mississippi and attended an Assemblies of God church. He credits a sister for introducing him to ’80s Christian rock music, including Michael W. Smith, Petra, Carmen, and Steven Curtis Chapman.

Arnold, 46, co-founded 3 Doors Down at age 15 and wrote the band’s hit song “Kryptonite” soon afterward. By the time he was 20, the band had signed with Universal Records and was touring, which Arnold admitted was “a lot” for someone that young. The rock lifestyle led to drinking, which eventually became problematic.

At his lowest point of addiction, Arnold called born-again country musician Charlie Daniels, who urged him to come home to Nashville, Tennessee, and attend rehab. While Arnold was “working the steps” of recovery, a man talked with him about God and offered a wakeup call. The man asked Arnold why, if he loved God, he was serving himself, not God. Then he asked why, if Arnold loved his wife, he was “trying to kill her husband.”

The past nine years of sobriety have been “the best years of my life,” Arnold said. For the last five years, he has attended Jackson’s church. He credited the pastor with encouraging him to “lead with my faith and to not be a comfortable Christian that sits in a pew…and lives how they want.”

Lead Singer Brad Arnold Is Grateful To Share Jesus’ Love

A few years ago, Brad Arnold heard Jesus say, “I want you to tell them that I love them this summer.” Because he had learned not to question Jesus, he obeyed—even though he didn’t know “how to go about that at a rock concert,” when half the people were “standing there with a beer in their hand.”

Then Arnold saw a post referencing John’s description as the disciple Jesus loves. “I was like, that’s a good something that I can build on,” said the singer.

Jelly Roll Brings His ‘Storm-Tossed’ Story and Joins Brandon Lake on ‘Hard Fought Hallelujah’

By

Janna Firestone

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January 22, 2025

An unlikely duo—Jelly Roll and Brandon Lake—join together on Lake’s new version of “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” which will release at the beginning of February.

“I’ll bring my hard-fought, heartfelt, been-through-hell hallelujah,” the lyrics include.

Jelly Roll and Brandon Lake Record New Version of ‘Hard Fought Hallelujah’

From being a drug dealer to now being one of country music’s biggest stars and receiving three trophies at the 2024 CMT Music Awards, Jelly Roll admitted that he had been writing and recording music for years before he was recognized in 2021. A transformation continues to unfold in his life and music career—before the public eye.

“It wasn’t, like, something I did on the side,” Jelly Roll said. “Like, it was my job. And I just always had faith that God had a bigger purpose for what I was trying to do.”

Breaking into the Christian music scene hasn’t been easy for Jelly Roll, but his honesty is welcomed as he sings “songs of the broken.” Christian artist Anne Wilson joined him on stage for a duet singing his hit, “Save Me.”

Jelly Roll now joins singer-songwriter Brandon Lake on an upcoming release of Lake’s hit, “Hard Fought Hallelujah.” When the song was first released in November 2024, it broke “genre history streams in seven days on multiple charts.”

Known for “Gratitude” and “Graves Into Gardens,” Lake has topped CCM and Billboard charts numerous times with dozens of awards and countless nominations—all with just four recorded studio albums.

“I am blown away by the response this song has received in such a short time,” says Lake. “It’s insane to see what God can do with just one song. My prayer is that this song reminds everyone who our God is—a ‘mountain movin,’ body raising, breaker of chains!'”

Pastor Who Let Unhoused People Stay at Church Found Guilty of Violating Fire Code

By

Jessica Lea

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January 22, 2025

Ohio Pastor Chris Avell, who has been allowing unhoused people to sleep at his church overnight, has been found guilty of a criminal charge for failing to observe city fire codes. The ruling, handed down on Tuesday, Jan. 21, is the latest in a protracted legal battle between Avell’s church, Dad’s Place, and the City of Bryan.

“The City of Bryan reiterates that no decision has been made to prevent Dad’s Place from operating as a church,” said Bryan Mayor Carrie Schlade in a statement Tuesday. “However, the residential operations of the facility must cease until proper building and fire code applications are filed and approved by the State of Ohio.”

“The city will continue to work with the appropriate agencies to address homelessness and support faith-based organizations in fulfilling their missions while ensuring the safety of the broader community,” she said.

First Liberty Institute, the legal firm representing Pastor Chris Avell, also issued a statement. “No pastor in America, including Pastor Chris Avell, should be pronounced guilty for providing temporary shelter to those in desperate need,” said Attorney Ryan Gardner. “Only government officials could say with a straight face that people are safer in the sub-zero temperatures on the street than inside the warmth of a church.”

Pastor Chris Avell Gets 30-Day Stay of Penalties

According to First Liberty, it was in March 2023 that Avell “began operating his ministry 24 hours a day to serve the most vulnerable in his local community.” The legal battle between Pastor Chris Avell and the City of Bryan began in October 2023 when the city “sent a cease and desist letter to the Church, ordering it to stop allowing overnight guests within 10 days or face criminal prosecution, with each day of operation constituting a new criminal offense.”

“After the Church refused to comply, the City filed 18 separate criminal charges,” said First Liberty.

In a January 2024 press release, the city said that after Avell began ministry operations in March 2023, the city “began seeing an increase in calls for service to the Bryan Police Department based on inappropriate activity at Dad’s Place.”

“Some of the calls were for criminal mischief, trespassing, overdose, larceny, harassment, disturbing the peace and sexual assault,” said the city.

The January 2024 press release is 42 pages long and contains documents including a police report about a sex offender allegedly staying on the premises with Avell’s knowledge and the zoning violations that were discovered.

In the press release, the city explains why it believes Avell knew about the zoning restrictions. It lists zoning violations by Dad’s Place, such as “improper installation of laundry facilities, inadequate or unsafe exit areas…no permitted and approved kitchen hood over the stove, and limited ventilation.”

‘Quack, Quack! Duck Dynasty Is Back’—A&E Announces Show’s Return

By

Jesse T. Jackson

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January 22, 2025

On Wednesday, Jan. 22, A&E announced the return of one its most beloved reality television shows, “Duck Dynasty.”

“Quack, Quack! Duck Dynasty is BACK with #DuckDynasty: The Revival,” A&E posted on social media. “Join Willie Robertson, Korie Robertson, and their growing family as they plan the future of Duck Commander and pass down their legacy. Don’t miss the fun—SUMMER 2025 on A&E!“

“Duck Dynasty” aired for 11 seasons and follows the daily lives of the Robertson family, a family who made their fortune after family patriarch Phil started manufacturing a duck call he invented. The Robertson clan quickly became household names after they warmed the hearts of Americans because of their love of God, family, hunting, and country.

On March 29, 2017, “Duck Dynasty” aired its final episode. Since then, many of the Robertson children have grown up, gotten married, and have had children of their own. Sadie Robertson Huff, one of the most notable of the Robertson clan, has stayed in the spotlight due to her popular “WHOA That’s Good Podcast” and Christian speaking engagements.

According to an A&E press release, the network has ordered 20 one-hour episodes of a show they have titled, “Duck Dynasty: The Revival.”

“The updated show will follow Willie and Korie and their growing family of adult children and grandchildren, the next generation of Robertsons living on the family homestead in Louisiana,” the release informs fans.

“With their dynasty expanding into more than just ducks, Willie and Korie will bring their signature humor and family fun as they grapple with mapping out the future of Duck Commander,” says the release, “watching the kids navigate marriage, children and businesses of their own, and passing down the family legacy.”

A&E shared that, in addition to Willie and Korie, the new series will feature Miss Kay, Uncle Si, John Luke, Sadie, Will, Bella, and Rebecca.

“Going back on A&E feels a little like going back home,” Willie and Korie said. “We’re thankful for all who have followed along as our family has grown and expanded and can’t wait to get cameras rolling again on all our new adventures, or perhaps misadventures.”

Sample Letter to an Inactive Church Members

By

Kyle Borg

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January 22, 2025

letter to an inactive church member — Adobe Stock #61713057

I’m not certain, but I suspect that if you asked a pastor what discourages him most, a common answer given would be the inactive member. Perhaps you need to send this sample letter to inactive church members.

By inactive church member I don’t mean only those who are habitually absent, but also the inactive church member who merely warms a seat but does little to participate in the life, service and especially the worship of the church. But it’s not only a great discouragement for a pastor (and congregation), it is also a good reason for concern. An inactive church member is one of the sheep that has gone astray and requires the shepherd to leave the 99 to go after the one. This sample letter to inactive church members is one attempt to go after that sheep.

My Sample Letter to Inactive Church Members:

Dear Friend,

I wanted to write you a letter of encouragement. I’ve noticed lately that you haven’t been as present in the life and worship of the congregation as you once were. I understand that there are many things in life that detract or hinder us from being as active as we should be, and maybe we just need a bit of a nudge in the right direction. In fact, it’s a temptation that the Bible encourages us against: “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:23-25). So with that in mind let me encourage you to not neglect the life, service and worship of the church.

First, I want to encourage you because God is worthy. When we meet week-by-week to worship God we don’t do it because it’s tradition or mere formality. Rather, we do it because God is worthy to be worshiped: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 5:12). When we come together in worship—as God wants us to do—we are saying, “You are worthy!” But when you don’t come to worship because you don’t feel like it, or you’re too busy, or you’d rather do something else, you are telling God, “You’re not worthy.” God is worthy of being worshiped, loved and served by you.

Second, I want to encourage you because the church is a body. Paul wrote: “For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another” (Romans 12:4-5). By the Holy Spirit we’re not only united to Jesus but to one another. When you’re not participating in the life, service and especially the worship of the church, we feel your absence. We value you—your presence, service, gifts and graces. To put it this way, when you’re not with us we’re not complete, but we’re a body that is missing a part.

Third, I want to encourage you because of your spiritual growth. God doesn’t intend Christians to grow all by themselves. Rather, we are to grow together. Again, Paul wrote that we have the ministry of the church so that “we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13). I’m afraid to say it, but it’s a biblical assumption that your inactivity means you’re not growing spiritually. You’re not growing in a love for God or for your neighbor; you’re not growing in your knowledge and understanding of the things of God. This isn’t a good place to be and we don’t want you to be there.

See the rest of this sample letter to inactive church members on page two . . .

A Set List Challenge for Worship Leaders

By

David Santistevan

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January 22, 2025

If there’s one tool worship leaders use more than any other, it’s songs. Songs are our currency. We listen to songs, rehearse songs, lead songs, study songs, write songs and oftentimes have entire conversations using song lyrics. Songs are what we do. I’m not here to bash worship songs. I’m not here to say worship isn’t about songs or a set list. Actually, it is. Of course, worship isn’t only songs. That’s like saying water alone keeps us alive. Actually, we need more than that. We need breath. We need food. The definition of worship isn’t songs, per se, but it’s a massive part of worship, particularly corporate worship.

No other art form unifies like singing. No other art form engages the whole person—intellect, emotions and physicality. Singing helps us feel the truth. As John Piper has said, the glories of God are not just meant to be studied and debated. They are meant to be felt and sung.

The problem with worship songs is that we end up just picking them. We scan the CCLI top 10 and string together a bunch of hits. Little thought goes into what my friend Zack Hicks calls the “theological diet” of our people. Little thought goes into answering the questions:

What is God doing?
What do we need to be singing?
What are our people going through?
What facet of God’s character do we need to emphasize?

Because that’s just it. Set lists created for concerts are meant to entertain. Songs picked for worship are meant to pastor.

RELATED: WORSHIP PLANNING

There was a time when I picked songs based on how they made me sound. Or I would choose a certain song because it would look impressive to others.

There were times I’d be more concerned with a congregation that was “into it” than us declaring what is true.

The Eight-Week Set List Challenge

So I’m presenting an eight-week challenge. Get ahead on your weekend set lists by eight weeks. And don’t just pick songs haphazardly. Prayerfully determine what your people need to be singing.

Joy in the midst of suffering?
Lament in the face of loss or pain?
The centrality of the cross?
The beauty of God?
The work of the Spirit?
Simple “call to worship” declarations?

What Makes a Good Church? 10 Signs You’re Attending One

By

Jarrid Wilson

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January 22, 2025

What makes a good church? No church is perfect, but there are some biblical blueprints that dictate whether or not a church is fulfilling its God-given mission as the bride of Christ. The reason a church cannot be perfect is because we as humans are flawed. Inevitably, the second any one of us step inside a church building, we in fact have contaminated the idea of perfection. Regardless of the human imperfections, here are 10 signs of what makes a good church.

What Makes a Good Church? 10 Signs:

1. Sound doctrine

“For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions.” 2 Timothy 4:3

2. A striving for relevance

“To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.” 2 Corinthians 21-23

Youth Ministry Don’ts: 18 Tips for Newbies (and Longtimers Too!)

By

Josh Griffin

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January 21, 2025

Youth ministry don’ts may seem negative, but they’re full of wisdom. It’s important to know what not to do as well as what to do!

Recently I received an e-mail from someone who’s just starting out in youth ministry. He asked for a quick list of basic tips for success. So I compiled the post below. It isn’t perfect, by any means. But I hope these 18 youth ministry don’ts are thought-provoking and helpful.

Watch Out for These Youth Ministry Don’ts

1. Don’t do ministry alone.

First off, youth ministry takes a team. So don’t try to be a Lone Ranger.

2. Don’t hog the platform.

Next, share the work as well as the credit.

3. Don’t alienate the team.

Empower and equip volunteers along the way.

4. Don’t treat everyone the same.

Adapt your ministry to meet specific needs.

5. Don’t make tons of changes…yet.

Get a solid feel for the program before trying to overhaul it.

6. Don’t reinvent the wheel.

Many people have come before you. Learn from their wisdom.

Peer Pressure Lesson for Sunday School and Children’s Ministry

By

Tina Houser

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January 21, 2025

This peer pressure lesson will have lasting impacts on young learners. The Bible-based object lesson offers a vivid picture of what it’s like to face negative peer pressure and its influences.

For this peer pressure lesson, you’ll need a balloon, a black Sharpie marker, and an empty water bottle.

Beforehand, blow up the balloon. Then draw a face on it with a Sharpie marker. After the ink dries, deflate the balloon. Next, insert the balloon into the empty bottle. Pull the opening of the balloon over the mouth of the bottle. The balloon should be hanging inside the bottle.

Choose someone to help you with the demonstration. Pick someone who claims they can blow up a balloon. Give them the bottle and tell them to blow hard into the balloon so it inflates. No matter how hard they blow, the balloon will not inflate inside the bottle.

Peer Pressure Lesson for Sunday School

Peers are the people around us, including friends, classmates, and family members. And pressure is when we feel like people are forcing us to act a certain way.

Let’s say the balloon represents a person, and the bottle is peer pressure. No matter how hard you try, when you let yourself be surrounded by negative peer pressure—people trying to influence you to act certain ways—you can’t grow into the person God intended. The pressure stifles and chokes you. It keeps you from growing spiritually.

Next, remove the balloon from the bottle and let your assistant blow it up. The face on the balloon will appear.

‘Not Just Football Teammates’—ESPN Sportscaster Suggests Christian Faith Helped Secure Ohio State Buckeyes Championship Win

By

Jesse T. Jackson

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January 21, 2025

ESPN sportscaster Scott Van Pelt credited the Ohio State Buckeyes players’ faith in Jesus as a driving factor in their College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship win on Monday, Jan. 20.

In the first ever 12-team CFP playoff, the No. 8-seeded Ohio State Buckeyes beat the No. 7-seeded Notre Dame Fighting Irish, 34-23.

“It seems that both faith in above and faith in one another is what got Ohio State through,” Van Pelt said during his post game SportsCenter segment.

Rece Davis, the host of ESPN’s College Game Day and CFP Top 25 Show, shared with Van Pelt a conversation he had with Buckeyes wide receiver Emeka Egbuka before the team’s playoff game with Tennessee.

“I mean, look, we hear a lot of times people talk about their faith, and people sort of dismiss it,” Davis said. “These guys were sharing their faith and reaching out and baptizing guys on campus. You know, not just football teammates.”

“And it became something powerful to them,” he continued, “not because they thought it was going to be handed to them to win a game, but it changed their relationships, and it changed selfishness and made it go away.”

Davis added, “It was impactful for them.”

Like the Buckeyes, Notre Dame had many players vocally express their faith throughout the season. Davis said that Notre Dame Coach Marcus Freeman shared that the players’ faith made the “guys selfless.”

Davis told Van Pelt, “I think that’s the power in it.” Having faith in Jesus doesn’t mean that “some magical things are going to go down and hand you the trophy…it just helps you maybe relate to your teammates differently,” Davis said.

Does It Matter That Trump Didn’t Put His Hand on the Bible When Taking His Oath of Office?

By

Jessica Lea

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January 21, 2025

Some are making much of the fact that President Trump did not place his hand on the Bible while being sworn in as 47th president of the United States during his inauguration Monday, Jan. 20. Others, however, are critiquing Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts for beginning the presidential oath before Melania Trump arrived with the Bibles Trump was to use.

Trump Inauguration: Swearing In Ceremony Draws Comment

Numerous media outlets and social media users noted that Trump did not place his hand on a Bible as he took the oath of office during his second inauguration. Instead, his wife, Melania, held two Bibles next to her husband as he recited his oath with his right hand raised and his left hand by his side.

“Anyone notice this as well?” said one person on X. “Trump while taking the oath of office never put his hand on the bible. Wait until the evangelicals find out. Laughing.”

“The first President of the United States in over 100 years to not put his hand on the Bible while taking the oath of office,” posted the X account Protect Kamala Harris. “I think you’ve been duped, evangelicals!” Vice President J.D. Vance did place his hand on the Bible while taking his oath prior to Trump. Notably, Trump did place his hand on the Bible during his first inauguration in 2017.

It is not quite accurate to say that Trump is the first person in over 100 years not to take the oath of office on the Bible. In 1963, President Lyndon B. Johnson, who admittedly thought he was using a Bible, ended up using a missal to be sworn in while on Air Force One following the assassination of John F. Kennedy. A missal is a Roman Catholic book containing prayers for mass.

It appears that prior to Johnson, the next most recent president not to be sworn in using a Bible was Calvin Coolidge during his first inauguration in 1923 (Coolidge did use a Bible for his second inauguration in 1925). Coolidge’s father, a notary public, swore Coolidge in at a farm in Vermont after President Warren G. Harding died. A Bible was present but not used.

Other presidents who did not use a Bible during their oaths of office include Theodore Roosevelt in 1901 (following the assassination of William McKinley) and John Quincy Adams in 1825. Nevertheless, the majority of American presidents have followed the tradition started in 1789 by George Washington, who took the oath of office with a Bible borrowed from a Masonic lodge.

A number of people have pointed out that a president swearing on the Bible is tradition and is not required by the Constitution. Viewers of the ceremony also pointed out that Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts began Trump’s swearing in before Melania Trump arrived at her husband’s side with the Bibles and before Trump’s family had gathered around him.

Christian Singer-Songwriter Victory Boyd, Who Worked With Kanye, Sues Rapper Travis Scott for Copyright Breach

By

Stephanie Martin

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January 21, 2025

Victory Boyd, a Grammy Award-winning Gospel artist, has filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against mainstream rapper Travis Scott. Boyd claims that Scott copied some original lyrics and melodies from her 2019 song “Like the Way It Sounds” for use in his 2023 song “Telekinesis.”

Other defendants include Scott’s “Telekinesis” collaborators, SZA and Future, as well as a watch company that used the song in an ad campaign against Boyd’s wishes.

In the lawsuit, filed in Manhattan federal court on Jan. 8, Boyd asks that Scott, SZA, and Future “recall and destroy” any music that infringes on her work. She is also seeking damages in an amount to be determined at trial.

“It’s not about the money,” Boyd wrote on social media. “It’s about reclaiming GODs [sic] property.”

Victory Boyd Files Lawsuit Against Travis Scott

Boyd, one of nine siblings, has been performing since age 4. The 30-year-old singer, whose voice has been compared to Nina Simone’s, moved to Wyoming “on a whim” in 2019 to write songs for Kanye West, known as Ye.

According to a lengthy Instagram video, Boyd got tired of seeing her hard work get “scrapped and truncated.” So she “decided that I am no longer writing songs for Ye, but rather I am writing songs for Jesus.” After switching her focus, Boyd said, she knew her work would never be in vain, even if no one but God heard the results.

On Instagram, Boyd shares a clip of her singing a tune she wrote about a heavenly dance party. Before she released it through her label, Roc Nation, Boyd said she heard “stolen” portions of it in “Telekinesis.” She claims Scott had access to her work through his friendship with West during that singer’s “Jesus Is King” era.

Next, Boyd played snippets of Scott’s “Telekinesis,” which contains some explicit lyrics. “I never would have consented to being associated and to help make a hit song that spread this message,” said the Gospel singer.

“Not once did anyone ask me or consider to inquire about my participation in this song,” Boyd added. “The answer would have been no. I wrote this song for God, and to the extent that Ye was working for God, I was working for Ye.”

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1. It Reminds You To Preach All Scripture, Including the Parts You Might Otherwise Skip.

2. It Reveals The Thoughts and Intents of the Authors of Scripture As They Were Led by the Spirit.

3. It Raises Up Self-Feeders, Helping Them Learn How To Read the Bible.

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Vacations and Heart Health

The Body Under Stress

The Body Under Prolonged Stress

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Independent Small Groups — Apart from a Church?

The Role of Church Small Groups

Benefits of Independent Small Groups

See page two for the challenges of independent small groups.

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Pastor Chris Avell Gets 30-Day Stay of Penalties

My Sample Letter to Inactive Church Members:

See the rest of this sample letter to inactive church members on page two . . .

The Eight-Week Set List Challenge

What Makes a Good Church? 10 Signs:

1. Sound doctrine

2. A striving for relevance

Watch Out for These Youth Ministry Don’ts

1. Don’t do ministry alone.

2. Don’t hog the platform.

3. Don’t alienate the team.

4. Don’t treat everyone the same.

5. Don’t make tons of changes…yet.

6. Don’t reinvent the wheel.

Peer Pressure Lesson for Sunday School

Trump Inauguration: Swearing In Ceremony Draws Comment

Victory Boyd Files Lawsuit Against Travis Scott

New Articles

New Podcasts

**1. It Reminds You To Preach All Scripture, Including the Parts You Might Otherwise Skip.**

**2. It Reveals The Thoughts and Intents of the Authors of Scripture As They Were Led by the Spirit.**

**3. It Raises Up Self-Feeders, Helping Them Learn How To Read the Bible.**