Matthew’s version of our favorite holiday [Matthew 1:18-2:23] is hardly recognizable except for the star and the wise men. Joseph nearly divorcing Mary, Herod’s diabolical ploy, the slaughter of the innocents, the flight to Egypt, waiting for a wicked king to die—none of these things make the cover of Christmas […]
As pastors, our call isn’t to put on a great prelude to a party (i.e., a wedding). It’s to prepare engaged couples for marriage, a lifelong relationship. Too often, time constraints lead many of us to focus the bulk of our “preparation” on planning a ceremony. Here’s how we can […]
Will there be roadblocks when we begin naturally sharing our faith with nonbelievers? Of course! I can tell you this: if you love people and spend time listening for the leading of the Holy Spirit, you will find your way. As you seek the Lord’s leading in your relationships with […]
Use or adapt the sermon below in your own preaching or teaching ministry. Sermon Title: Thomas: Changed from Doubt to Faith Text: “Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his […]
J. I. Packer (1926–) is known primarily as a writer, theologian, and professor; however, throughout the majority of his career, he was a preacher dedicating himself to the training of theologically astute church people. Having stood in hundreds, if not thousands, of pulpits and classrooms throughout the world, Packer has […]
Alpha is a ten-week course that provides a safe place to explore life’s biggest questions. Globally proven and highly effective, Alpha creates a culture of invitation within your church and is a great front door for people exploring faith. We know that encouraging guests to come back to Alpha week […]
