Articles for Pastors

Africans Call Me “Father” (and It’s Humbling)

I’ve been called a lot of things in my life. Most of them good. Some unrepeatable in a blog written by a pastor. However, when my African brothers and sisters call me Father (as a term of respect and endearment, not a religious title), it always moves me.

I’m Not Dead and the Holy Spirit Is Not a “Force”

Why do so many evangelicals have a warped understanding of the Holy Spirit? Could I suggest that, in large part, this is rooted in what we publicly say, sing, write and teach (or fail to teach) in our Christian circles.

How I Format My Sermon Outline

For over a decade I have tried to find the best way to format my sermon notes. I’ve asked some of the greatest living known preachers how they do it and if I could see theirs.

5 Signs You’re Not the Leader You Think You Are

"The best leaders are able to execute and makes things happen."

Here’s the Biggest Obstacle to Personal Growth

Deep in the psyche of the first-world perspective, it seems that someone's built-in desire to grow as a person is stalled by the more immediate desire to be comfortable, to be safe, to be sure and certain.

6 Reasons People Pleasing Hurts Your Leadership

The ill-gained affirmation you receive will hurt you and your leadership over the long-haul. And of course, you can’t keep everyone happy even if that was a good idea.

5 Rather Surprising Findings About Growing and Declining Churches

This isn’t a comparison of big churches versus smaller churches. This is data that’s comparing growing churches to declining churches.

To Grow a Healthy Church, Become a Healthier Leader

Everything rises or falls on leadership, and many problems can be traced to a lack of competent leadership.