Pastors

When it comes whether a Christian can drink alcohol, the Bible couldn’t be clearer or more direct.

Leaders sit around and figure which ones will work in their context and then crumple up the true stories so they can be tossed in the rubbish bin. These false narratives rewound the victims, corrupt the heart of the church, and turn church cultures into greater toxicity.

Nowhere more than when I am writing a message. As a communicator and preacher, there’s something in me (and I bet I’m not alone) that intuitively believes a message is only good if it’s deep, layered, and rich.

Here are some reasons why Paul was able to finish his race well and what pastors can learn from him.

The average pastor is not needing special treatment—just humane, loving, grace-filled treatment. The kind you would want for yourself.

Every Christian I know has had the experience of coming up against sinful cravings--the same sin—again—and wondering, “Will this struggle ever end? Why doesn’t God just remove this?” (If you haven’t had that experience, just give it time.)

“Who is the Holy Spirit to you?” Wilson responded the only way he knew how: with honesty. “He is nothing to me. I have no contact with Him and could get along quite well without Him.”

Leaders are often reluctant to acknowledge and accept their weaknesses. I can understand that. I’m often reluctant too. But it is in our weakness that we are invited to experience God's strength.