The church clearly has an image problem. For a variety of reasons, many in the culture view the church with a great deal of skepticism—if not outright disdain. In her book, The Gospel Comes with a House Key, Rosaria Butterfield captures it per- fectly when she writes, “Let’s face it; we have become unwelcome guests in this post-Christian world. Our … [Read more...]
The Importance of the City
I grew up in a small town and enjoyed swimming and fishing in the summer, hunting in the fall and playing pond hockey in the winters. I talk to many people who long for simpler times in rural America. Having said all that, I am increasingly convinced of the importance of cities. And after 23 years in Grand Rapids, I have appreciated the strategic … [Read more...]
Canning the Canned Approach
The incarnation is a revolutionary doctrine. Humanity was alienated from God because of its sin. Jesus, the eternal Son of God and the Creator of the universe, humbled himself and took on the constraints of human flesh. He spoke a language that was readily understood and he employed metaphors from everyday life that resonated with his hearers. With … [Read more...]
Evangelism, Luke 8:26-39
Introduction Text: Luke 8:26-39 Compelling Reasons to Speak Jesus has sent you. Every believer is called to share their faith (Matthew 28:18-20) This is true regardless of personality type or giftedness. You are uniquely qualified. Every believer can tell of God's redeeming grace. Evangelism means sharing what Jesus has done … [Read more...]