Peace-making is rarely confused with peace-breaking, but it is often confused with peace-keeping. When I first traveled to Bosnia in 2001 on a humanitarian aid effort I got a good look at peace-keeping. The United Nations had divided up the land between the Bosnians and Serbians. Without a doubt there were heinous crimes committed during their civil war. There had not been an … Read More
One of my earliest memories of my grandparent’s house, were the missionary prayer cards taped on the inside door of their kitchen cabinets. Every time you wanted a glass of water you were reminded to pray for the missionaries. When it comes to our responsibility to the share the good news about Jesus with the world, John Piper has said, “Go, send, or disobey.” … Read More
I struggle with anger. Perhaps you do too. When I succumb to my anger it feels like I don’t have control over my emotions, thoughts, and choices. It seems like decisions are being made for me. It feels like I’m in a box. But is that reality? The following video illustration helps to clarify. If you are receiving this via email or Facebook … Read More
Twenty years ago a deeply troubled young man stepped into my office. He was accompanied by a friend for the sake of encouragement. Together they began to pour out his sad story. When he was in 8th grade he became a victim of sexual abuse at the hand of high school teen. As he had entered high school he struggled … Read More
If you have pastored at the same place for any length of time you know firsthand some of the hardships in ministry. The unexpected criticism. The weariness of soul. Trying to serve faithfully when your heart may not be in it. Investing countless hours in a life only to have them turn their back on the Lord. I call those forks in … Read More
One of the methods I have employed with great effectiveness in teaching is to reproduce the Biblical environment on the stage. At a recent Good Friday service, rather than just tell them about the events, I placed live costumed actors behind a replica of the Lord’s Table. I left the position where the Lord would sit empty. The actor’s were … Read More
Jesus was an trememdously creative teacher. As Bible teachers we would do well to not simply explain his words, but attempt to emulate his style. Beacuse I would sometimes receive criticism for teaching differently – i.e. doing something other than simply lecturing the audience; I began to evaluate what methods Jesus used when he taught others. The following are some … Read More
There is an art and a science to being creative for the Bible teacher. By using the five presentation tools and interspersing them throughout your Bible lesson your students will not only find it easier to learn, but you will also hold their attention more effectively. These are not discovery or study tools per se. They are listed here as vehicles for communicating ruth. In … Read More
We live in a world where lions lay around lazily in the zoo cages. Gettting up for an occasional stretch or yawn. The Bible gives this strong warning though: “Be soberminded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Check out the following video clip, and ask yourself, “What adjectives … Read More
