Articles for Pastors

There is nothing inherently wrong with disagreeing, after all, God made us each unique, but we can disagree and get along. We can’t elevate every disagreement to the level of heresy.

We can be thankful that folks are once again concerned with what is true. But at the same time I would argue that what is being promoted as discernment has actually more in common with Gnosticism than biblical discernment.

I don’t want to minister in a church in which people don’t trust each other. And I refuse to work with leaders I can’t trust. But trusting each other doesn’t mean we shouldn’t put proper financial checks and balances in place.

The following is an excerpt from the opening of Jonathan Herron's book, Holy Shift. Jonathan leads one of America's fastest growing churches, LifeChurchMichigan.com. Part of his "training" was his time spent at Second City in Chicago.

A faithful expositional ministry will protect the flock from wolves both inside and outside the church. As a shepherd, it’s also our responsibility to identify the wolves.

Some pastors outgrow their jobs. Others find their jobs outgrow them. As you multiply your ministry, you must grow yourself.

Research indicates that a number of individuals working alone will generate more diverse and better quality ideas than the same number participating in a brainstorming session.  

Divorce rates among families with disabilities, infant loss, or special needs are high, and it’s no surprise. When the rest of your circumstances demand a fight, it can be hard to stick up for each other. It takes extra effort to fight for your marriage.