7 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and the… Read More
SOM 33—Swine
Posted: February 2, 2020
“Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you” (Matthew 7:6). This text connects with… Read More
SOM 32—Judge
Posted: February 1, 2020
1 “Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to… Read More
Bad Plot Summaries
Posted: January 31, 2020
Click Here to Listen Have you read any of the “bad plot summaries” that are going around the internet? For example, here’s a bad plot summary of the Lord of… Read More
SOM 31—Kingdom
Posted: January 31, 2020
33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will… Read More
SOM 30—Anxious
Posted: January 30, 2020
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on…. Read More
SOM 29—Mammon
Posted: January 29, 2020
“No man can serve two masters. For either he will hate the one and love the other. Or else he will hold fast to the one and despise the other…. Read More
SOM 28—Darkness
Posted: January 28, 2020
The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is single, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is evil, your whole body… Read More
SOM 27—Treasure
Posted: January 27, 2020
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where… Read More
SOM 26—Fast
Posted: January 26, 2020
Moreover, when you fast, do not put on a sad face like the hypocrites. For they disfigure their faces so that they may appear to men to fast. Truly I… Read More
SOM 25—Forgive
Posted: January 25, 2020
For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew… Read More
SOM 24—THE Prayer
Posted: January 24, 2020
“Pray then like this: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is… Read More
SOM 23—Prayer
Posted: January 23, 2020
5 “And when you pray, do not be as the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, so they may… Read More
SOM 22—Alms
Posted: January 22, 2020
“Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly,… Read More
SOM 21—Show-off!
Posted: January 21, 2020
“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew… Read More
SOM 20–Perfection
Posted: January 20, 2020
“You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). On the previous topic, “Enemies:” Jesus, Paul, and the early church spoke clearly and definitively about the… Read More
SOM 19—Enemies
Posted: January 19, 2020
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may… Read More
SOM 18—Retaliation
Posted: January 18, 2020
38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’39 But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps… Read More
Almost Half of Practicing Christian Millennials Say Evangelism Is Wrong – Barna Group
Posted: January 17, 2020
Sharing one’s faith—evangelizing—is a core practice among many religions. For Christians, it’s viewed as a mandate from Jesus himself before he departed earth: commanding his disciples to “spread the good… Read More
SOM 17—Oaths
Posted: January 17, 2020
33 “Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ 34 But I say to you, Do not take… Read More
SOM 16—Divorce
Posted: January 16, 2020
“It was said, ‘Whoever sends his wife away, let him give her a certificate of divorce’; but I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except for the… Read More
Losing our Religion: Conservative churches grapple with gender issues in time of growth
Posted: January 15, 2020
www.washingtontimes.com 5 mins read Religious conservative leaders at the national level see the fight over gender issues as make-or-break. (Associated Press/File) U.S. church attendance is dropping, but Hope Church in Memphis, Tennessee, is… Read More
SOM 15—Lust
Posted: January 15, 2020
27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in… Read More
SOM 14—Anger
Posted: January 14, 2020
You have heard that it was said by those of old, you will not kill; and whoever kills will be in danger of the judgment. But I say to you… Read More
125 Countries and 1 Core Mission – Interview with Douglas Jacoby
Posted: January 13, 2020
Renew.org If you had the opportunity to sit down and talk with a world traveling disciple maker, what questions would you ask? As for me, I was curious about what… Read More
SOM 13—Pharisees
Posted: January 13, 2020
“For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:20). Jesus’ words would probably have… Read More
List of Audio Lessons
Posted: January 12, 2020
Non-members can listen to several of the audio lessons (the Jesus N.T. Character Podcast, A Christian Response to Global Financial Crisis; Serving the Poor: Second Thoughts; Avatar; The Hunger Games, etc.), but… Read More
SOM 12—Fulfillment
Posted: January 12, 2020
17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 For truly, I say to… Read More
SOM 11—Light
Posted: January 11, 2020
You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do men light a lamp and put it under a basket, but… Read More
Everyday Disciple Maker: Debbra Stephens
Posted: January 10, 2020
Everyday Disciple Maker: Debbra Stephens CLICK HERE TO LISTEN Whether you work in sales or in a school, whether a preacher or a plumber, there is one… Read More
SOM 10—Salt
Posted: January 10, 2020
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt becomes foolish, how will it be salted? It is thereafter good for nothing but to be thrown out and… Read More
SOM 09—Persecuted
Posted: January 9, 2020
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when men speak abusively of you,… Read More
SOM 08—Peacemaking
Posted: January 8, 2020
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). “If most of us are honest with ourselves, we know that there are many… Read More
Q&A 1568—Salt losing saltiness?
Posted: January 8, 2020
In Matthew 5:13 we read, “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for… Read More
SOM 07—Pure
Posted: January 7, 2020
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8). (1) PURITY: A constant theme in Jesus’ teaching is that God looks not only at… Read More
Racism: Twisted reasoning
Posted: January 7, 2020
Douglas Jacoby, Washington DC (1993) (recommended by Russ Ewell, San Francisco) Prejudice is ugly and widespread, knowing no borders. Yet even more detestable is the use of biblical authority to justify… Read More
SOM 06—Merciful
Posted: January 6, 2020
The 5th beatitude: “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7). My friend David Berçot, who has examined all the ancient Christian writings, helps… Read More
SOM 05—Hungry
Posted: January 5, 2020
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness / justice, for they will be satisfied.” What does this mean? Consider such passages as: “Man does not… Read More
SOM 04—Meek
Posted: January 4, 2020
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5) “Meek” is a word we seldom use. It does not mean “weak.” It derives from the Old Norse mjúkr,… Read More
Netflix’s ‘Messiah’ Says the World Needs a Savior | Christianity Today
Posted: January 3, 2020
On January 1, Netflix released its latest über-bingeable series, Messiah, telling an all-too-believable story about the rise of a contemporary messianic figure known as Al-Masih (played by Mehdi Dehbi). Appearing out… Read More
11 Nigerian Christians Executed in ISIS Christmas Video | News & Reporting | Christianity Today
Posted: January 3, 2020
11 Nigerian Christians Executed in ISIS Christmas Video…… | News & Reporting | Christianity Today In another filmed massacre, 11 Nigerian Christians were executed by the Islamic State West African… Read More
Something You Can Never Be
Posted: January 3, 2020
Something You Can Never Be CLICK HERE TO LISTEN Have you ever been told an expression by somebody older than you which makes absolutely no sense to your generation?… Read More
SOM 03—Mourning
Posted: January 3, 2020
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:4). In the background there are well over 100 scriptural passages on mourning, like this one, where Jesus identifies himself… Read More
Does Science Disprove Faith?
Posted: January 2, 2020
By John Ortberg on January 1, 2020 This piece has been adapted from the transcript of a sermon delivered by John Ortberg at Menlo Park Presbyterian Church on January 5, 2014, and has… Read More
SOM 02—Poor
Posted: January 2, 2020
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). There are at least 20 beatitudes uttered by Jesus in the N.T. (8 in Matthew,… Read More
SOM 01—The Mountain
Posted: January 1, 2020
Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. (Matt 5:1-2 ESV) Mountains in the Bible are associated with Moses (Exod 19-20),… Read More
OT62-The Prophetess Huldah
Posted: January 1, 2020
Hebrew & Greek words: chuldah = mole. See the Huldah Gates (entrance into Temple precinct). nevi’ah = prophetess (Greek prophêtis) navi’ = prophet (Greek prophétēs) Prophetesses of the Bible: Old Testament… Read More
The Most Important Habit for 2020
Posted: December 31, 2019
I like New Year’s resolutions. About 60% of Americans will join with me and make them over the next few days as we head into 2020. Here is the most… Read More
SOM 00—Introduction—It Still Haunts Us
Posted: December 27, 2019
The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is the section of the New Testament widely agreed to contain the very heart of Jesus’ kingdom message. The teachings were and still are… Read More
The Overlooked Nativity Character
Posted: December 25, 2019
The Overlooked Nativity Character by Rob Kranz An old girlfriend once told me that the groom was just “a prop” at the wedding. The focus of the entire ceremony is supposed to… Read More
Christmas Quiz
Posted: December 25, 2019
Take the test (without going online or looking up the answers). Which was Jesus’s birthplace: Nazareth, Bethlehem, Egypt, or Capernaum? What is a manger: baby crib, food trough, soft container, or Christmas cradle?… Read More
Share with Us: Your Top Disciple Making Apps or Mobile Sites
Posted: December 11, 2019
Dear Discipleship-First Tribe, One of the major developments coming for disciple makers moving into 2020 is the proliferation of digital apps and mobile sites (that function like apps) to… Read More
Are the Crusades the Ultimate Black Mark Against Christianity? by Rob Kranz
Posted: December 4, 2019
Are the Crusades the Ultimate Black Mark Against Christianity? by Rob Kranz “How could anyone defend a religion that would sanction the Crusades?” Having spent a year living in Jerusalem in the… Read More
New Beginnings Are Possible
Posted: November 29, 2019
By Dan Armstrong • In the summer of 2019, two-time NBA champion, Olympic medalist, and reality TV star Lamar Odom announced he was giving up porn. But, he didn’t have a… Read More
Thanksgiving, Disciple Making, and the Deuteronomy 8 Principle – Discipleship.org
Posted: November 27, 2019
Discipleship-First Friends, Thanksgiving is an important day on many levels. We are committed to helping you be a disciple who makes disciples, so we know it’s important to “give thanks in… Read More
“Are You Possessed?”
Posted: November 25, 2019
Sermon given by Doug on 11-24-19 at the North River Church of Christ in Atlanta, GA. https://vimeo.com/375303498
Should You be a Pastor or a Professor? Thinking Through the Options – Canon Fodder
Posted: November 22, 2019
Since I am a professor at a seminary, it is not unusual (indeed, it is very common) for students to come to me for advice about whether they should enter… Read More
Q&A 1567—Have you smoked marijuana?
Posted: November 22, 2019
What does the bibble [sic] say about marijuana? After all, it is just a plant. Have you smoked it? Have you read about the effects it has on you? This is… Read More
Worst practices for dismissing a minister | The Christian Chronicle
Posted: November 21, 2019
Church experts and those who have been there discuss what not to do when firing a minister. Talking with ministers who have lost their jobs can feel repetitive. And depressing…. Read More
2 Ways to Fuel Disciple Making
Posted: November 14, 2019
We believe discipleship is the core mission of the church. That is why fueling discipleship is our mission. We can only do this with your prayers and support. Would you prayerfully consider joining… Read More
6 Things to Avoid in Dating – Third Drive Faith
Posted: November 14, 2019
Do you have a friend who needs good dating advice? Send this to him or her! Click here for more.
“I Was a Misunderstood Muslim: Common Misconceptions About Islam”
Posted: November 10, 2019
News about terrorist attacks may teach us about some Muslims, but not about most Muslims — and probably not about the Muslims down the street. Continue reading here. www.desiringgod.org
Q&A 1566—What color is Jesus?
Posted: November 8, 2019
Please, you claim to be the only Christians that are right, so tell me have you ever seen Jesus in the flesh, and if so what colour is he? —R.B…. Read More
Muscle and a Shovel | The Christian Chronicle
Posted: November 6, 2019
Muscle and a Shovel | The Christian Chronicle Muscle and a Shovel is a raw and gritty true story about a pair of young newly-weds who move to the city… Read More
OT61—Michal, Abigail, Bathsheba
Posted: November 1, 2019
Hebrew words: Mikhál = brook ‘Avigail = my father is joy Bath-sheva’ = daughter of the oath David’s wives: Ahinoam, Maachah, Haggith, Abital, Eglah Michal, Abigail, Bathsheba—and possibly more Note: this does not… Read More
Why should Christians care for creation?
Posted: October 31, 2019
New Common Question: Why should Christians care for creation? As bearers of God’s image, all people have the responsibility and privilege of caring for God’s creation. How can we… Read More
The Cautionary Tale of Jerry Falwell Jr. | Christianity Today
Posted: October 25, 2019
Something doesn’t smell right in Lynchburg, Virginia, home of Liberty University and its controversial president, Jerry Falwell Jr. According to a September report in Politico: “Everybody is scared for their… Read More
David Young and Eric Metaxas? Say no more!
Posted: October 25, 2019
Our very own cofounder, David Young, was recently on The Eric Metaxas Show! Leaders are talking about A Grand Illusion, you can join the conversation. Friends, In case you don’t know, Eric Metaxas… Read More
Q&A 1565—Have any ideas for a personal spiritual retreat?
Posted: October 25, 2019
Q: Thanks for sharing about your personal spiritual retreat in Canada [October 2019]. This is making me curious (and I suspect that others might be wondering also) about what is… Read More
Church and Culture, with Christian Ray Flores
Posted: October 23, 2019
Recently I caught up with one of the workshop presenters at our November 6th Gathering, Christian Ray Flores. Christian is a Renew.org co-founder and has an interesting perspective on culture and… Read More
What Should I Do To Become a Christian Teacher?, by John Oakes
Posted: October 20, 2019
Adapted with permission from Evidenceforchristianity.org I [John Oakes] have been serving as a teacher in one way or another for more than thirty years. It is my career, as a professor… Read More
Strength in Weakness Workshop – Duluth, GA
Posted: October 18, 2019
Guy Hammond’s Strength in Weakness ministry will be at the Cornerstone Church in Duluth, GA the weekend of Oct. 25-27, 2019. Here are links for more details: https://www.strengthinweakness.org/ 678.957.4715 info@cornerstoneduluth.org
Does God Promise to Heal Our Land? by Greg Koukl
Posted: October 17, 2019
Greg explains how 2 Chronicles 7:14 is used incorrectly by Christians thinking it’s speaking to them. Click here to play. Transcript: I want to speak for a moment about the danger of… Read More
The Top 100 Verses on Money and Wealth
Posted: October 16, 2019
Bookmark the list for Bible study, reference, and sharing with others. Top 100 Bible Verses on Money and Wealth Also see the Topical Index of Money and Wealth Scriptures The latest… Read More
Outgrowing Facts – Tyndale House
Posted: October 16, 2019
Assyriologist George Heath-Whyte explains the errors in Richard Dawkins’ new book Richard Dawkins was asked by journalist Krishnan Guru-Murthy in an interview recently, “If you could change the world, how would you change… Read More
The Tyndale House Greek New Testament online
Posted: October 16, 2019
We are delighted to announce, in partnership with Crossway publishers, that the Tyndale House Greek New Testament (THGNT), edited by Tyndale House Academic Vice Principal Dr Dirk Jongkind and Principal Dr Peter J Williams, is… Read More
Best practices for dismissing a minister – Christian Chronicle
Posted: October 16, 2019
Church experts and those who have been there offer five key recommendations for leaders. Cheryl Mann Bacon Columnist Somewhere in the unwritten but badly needed handbook for elders are three… Read More
SBC President: We Failed to Heed Victims’ Voices
Posted: October 15, 2019
SBC President J. D. Greear speaks at the ERLC’s Caring Well Conference on October 3.Southern Baptist Convention President J. D. Greear acknowledged that while sexual abuse survivors have pleaded with… Read More
Q&A 1564—Can we dispense with the Old Testament?
Posted: October 11, 2019
The Book of Hebrews says the Old Covenant is obsolete, so since I already believe in Christ, I don’t need to bother with the Old Testament.—E.E. As there is a… Read More
Trinity Debate: Dr. James White v Dr. Shabir Ally
Posted: October 7, 2019
Debate – Tawheed or Trinity: Is God One or Three Divine Persons? Event in Atlanta, GA by Why Should I Believe at Georgia Tech on Wednesday, November 13 2019 6:30-9pm… Read More
CRISPR babies?
Posted: October 2, 2019
What should we think of DNA experiments and developments? Jim Stump ponders the most recent developments in the realm of gene editing, including CRISPR babies, the problem of chimeras, and more,… Read More
Q&A 1563—Jesus is my husband?
Posted: September 27, 2019
My book club is reading Falling in Love With Jesus: Abandoning Yourself to the Greatest Romance of Your Life. The authors teach that Christian women, whether single or married, should refer to… Read More
Jesus and His Enemies
Posted: September 22, 2019
My sermon at the North River Church of Christ on Sunday 22 September 2019 (9 am service). Principal texts: Luke 23:34 and Matt 5:38-48. https://vimeo.com/361631498
Online Bible Test—Am I a Student of the Word?
Posted: September 20, 2019
How well do we know God’s Word? Here’s a tool to evaluate our level of Bible knowledge. The diagnostic test at 3 levels has been constructed with the help of many around… Read More
Spiritual Abuse in Marriage
Posted: September 20, 2019
This is part 1 of a 2 part series. Written by: Darby Strickland, Counselor Read part 1 here.
Shared Church
Posted: September 19, 2019
“. . . members together of one body and sharers together . . .” (Eph. 3:6) Shared Church aims to encourage Christians and churches to practice participatory body life—the one-anothering… Read More
Is Your Church Missing the Communication Train? — by Christian Ray
Posted: September 18, 2019
Ask the tech-savvy youth in your church: How relevant and compelling is our communication? Are we truly engaging the information revolution to communicate the gospel to as many people as… Read More
How a Gay Man and a Christian Minister Became Great Friends
Posted: September 18, 2019
Kidogo – Christian Practicals 2.67K subscribers Guy Hammond used to live a gay life before he became a Christian. Now, as Christian minister, he runs an international ministry dedicated to… Read More
Facts Concerning Social Media Use in 2019
Posted: September 16, 2019
Social Media – A powerful tool https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6k_G_h41ZaQ
Q&A 1562—Recently discovered letter from Egypt shows early Christians worldly?
Posted: September 13, 2019
What do you think about the recently discovered Christian letter? I learned about this through Fox News. The article is titled “1,700-year-old recently discovered Christian letter offers clues into how faithful… Read More
Gauging The Health of Your Church Members
Posted: September 12, 2019
By CSN on Sep 05, 2019 01:00 pm There are many ways you can assess the spiritual health of your church members. Faith, regular church attendance, and engagement in community… Read More
What is the Bible? (Rob Bell), by Jon Sherwood
Posted: September 7, 2019
“Just let the Bible be whatever it is.” … But just what is the Bible? What is the Bible? This is a vitally important question. Rob Bell is a famous… Read More
Are Most Scientists Atheists?
Posted: September 7, 2019
ARE MOST SCIENTISTS ATHEISTS? Baruch Aba Shalev wrote a book titled 100 Years of Nobel Prizes. That book contains a report on Nobel prizes awarded between 1901 and 2000. During that period, when 423… Read More
Chik-fil-A – “Anti-equality giving”
Posted: September 7, 2019
CHICK-FIL-A GIVING. San Antonio, Texas, and Buffalo, New York, have kicked Chick-fil-A out of their airports for “aiding and abetting Christian organizations.” What is especially ironic is that it is the charity work of… Read More
Understanding Myths That May Hold Us Back
Posted: September 5, 2019
Don’t Be Fooled Into Believing These Final Two GRIEF MYTHS You have taken from me my closest friends and have made me repulsive to them. I am confined and cannot… Read More
Faithfulness Is Not Theologically Complicated (Greg Koukl)
Posted: September 2, 2019
Greg Koukl continues to turn out thought-provoking articles, accessible and interesting. (Personally, I thought his section on salvation was over-simplified, but every other section was excellent. – DJ) Faithfulness Is… Read More
OT Character Podcast 60, Mephibosheth
Posted: September 1, 2019
Introduction Our O.T. character today is a minor character. And yet doesn’t mean he isn’t important. The relationship between David and Jonathan (Saul’s son, next in line for the throne)… Read More
Q&A 1561—Boring to be with God for all eternity?
Posted: August 30, 2019
We believe we Christians will spend eternity with God. No disrespect meant, but sooner or later, wouldn’t that grow old? Maybe the first few years or centuries would be great,… Read More
The Evolution of a Homeschooling Mom
Posted: August 29, 2019
By Kendra Terpstra on August 16, 2019 Whenever people ask me how I found out about BioLogos, I usually give them a quick elevator speech that begins with when I first read… Read More
The Developer’s Dark Side, by Craig Groeschel
Posted: August 26, 2019
This thought-provoking podcast explores four critical weaknesses in leadership: controlling, criticizing, avoiding, and rescuing. Craig Groeschel is connected with Life Church, and puts out a monthly podcast. Listen here.
Season 2 of Language of God
Posted: August 26, 2019
“One thing I see at the orthodox cores of our traditions is that at one and the same time we are to hold faithfully to truth as we know it… Read More
The Billy Graham Rule Goes to Court | News & Reporting | Christianity Today
Posted: August 23, 2019
A North Carolina sheriff’s deputy sues his former employer for religious discrimination after it wouldn’t accommodate his request to not train a female officer one-on-one. David Roach August 20, 2019… Read More
Searching for Disciple Making Churches and Movements in North America?
Posted: August 21, 2019
Dear Discipleship-First Tribe, We want you to become the disciple maker God intends you to be. For those of you who are church leaders, we also want you to develop… Read More
“Our Family Spent Too Much Money Last Year” by Patrick Blair
Posted: August 21, 2019
Late last year, I noticed our family checkbook was getting very light. Dread filled my mind as I realized that we would need to borrow money to pay our bills… Read More
Video on Relativism
Posted: August 16, 2019
Today, PraegerU released Paul Copan’s five-minute video on relativism—“True for You, But Not for Me.” This is a great platform for intelligent public discourse on this topic and its pernicious… Read More
Q&A 1560—Did Joshua violate the Sabbath?
Posted: August 16, 2019
In Joshua 6, God commanded the Israelites to circle the city 7 days in a row. Therefore, one of those days had to be a Sabbath. Would walking around the… Read More
Feedback on the Online Bible Test
Posted: August 11, 2019
Two persons (perhaps more) were not so fond of the Online Bible Test, commenting that it isn’t as important to know chapter and verse, or the arrangement of biblical books, as… Read More
Islam & Christianity (lesson from Azerbaijan)
Posted: August 6, 2019
The podcast Islam & Christianity (26 minutes) is intended to help the new student of world religions to develop a feel for how the two faiths connect. This is material I… Read More
How to Invite a Transgender Person to Church, by Brandon Redler
Posted: August 2, 2019
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuD5IrsSS-0
Christian Cyborgs?!? A Serious Conversation About Science and Humanity
Posted: August 2, 2019
Man melding with machine. Anti-aging technology. Brain-computer interface. Gene-edited “designer” babies. Some scientific advances go beyond helping humanity overcome obstacles. They actually begin to help humanity overcome, well . …. Read More
Q&A 1559—Why Did God Tell Abraham to Sacrifice Isaac?
Posted: August 2, 2019
Why did the Lord tell Abraham to sacrifice Isaac? This seems barbaric. Indeed, this is one of the more disturbing passages of the Old Testament. In the 22nd chapter of… Read More
Two Things to Know for Back-to-School Time
Posted: July 31, 2019
First – Learn from Disciple Making Leader: Small Circle Steve McCoy is the leader of Small Circle, one of our trusted disciple-making partners. Here’s what he told us about his ministry… Read More
Common Grounds – 3rd Chapter in San Diego
Posted: July 30, 2019
Common Grounds (www.cgunity.com) – Third chapter starting in September (9/26, 11:30am-1:00pm) in San Diego. Robert Carrillo is speaking, see flyer with all info here.
“Scripture-Soaked” – message at North River Church
Posted: July 29, 2019
Watch the message given in Atlanta (North River Church) on July 28, 2019. https://vimeo.com/350604112?fbclid=IwAR3vKZU4TYY-ZDZZ61QD6V7gqz5I3cXSCnjFF8f7dKqH4s44SW9HffM-FSs
“A Life Well-Lived: Let’s Be Honest” – from Proverbs
Posted: July 29, 2019
Sermon I did in the Midpoint Ministry (Chicago) on July 21, 2019. (The sermon begins at about 0:38, and ends at 1:12.) https://www.facebook.com/MidpointMinistryCenter/videos/492425961508466/
Biblical Town of Ziklag May Have Been Discovered
Posted: July 24, 2019
Located between Kiryat Gat and Lachish in southern Israel, Khirbet a-Ra‘i has been the site of excavations since 2015. The researchers recently announced their belief that they have uncovered the… Read More
Q&A 1558—Open communion?
Posted: July 19, 2019
I agree with your take on communion as an actual meal. Concerning excluding unbelievers because they can’t “connect” with it, did the early church use this rationale for any means… Read More
Más Allá de la Vida 1 & 2, por Arturo Elizarrarás
Posted: July 17, 2019
Podcast 1 Podcast 2 Más Allá de la Vida – Slides
Ebola survivor Dr. Kent Brantly returning to Africa as medical missionary
Posted: July 16, 2019
FORT WORTH, Texas — Dr. Kent Brantly sat on his counselor’s couch and wept. The tears came last summer as the Christian physician visited with Dottie Schulz, a missionary care volunteer… Read More
Mark Moore on Life, Legacy and Core 52
Posted: July 15, 2019
I was recently able to catch up with Renew Gathering speaker Mark Moore. We talked about life transitions, creating a legacy, personal discipline, and a new book he has written… Read More
How to Avoid the Professor’s Ploy, by Greg Koukl
Posted: July 10, 2019
Part 7: Greg addresses a situation where you may be tempted to take on the burden of proof in conversation about Christianity. Watch video here.
What is the Bible? (Rob Bell), by Jon Sherwood
Posted: July 9, 2019
“Just let the Bible be whatever it is.”…But just what is the Bible? What is the Bible? This is a vitally important question. Rob Bell is a famous American author,… Read More
Tired of Living as Predictably as a Facebook Advertisement? – Renew.org
Posted: July 6, 2019
Headlines were buzzing with the announcement. Facebook had introduced a new metric that would significantly revamp their algorithms. Continue here.
Ancient DNA reveals the origins of the Philistines
Posted: July 5, 2019
FROM THE SEA DNA obtained from remains of people who inhabited an ancient city on Israel’s coast, including this child, indicate that the Philistines mentioned in the Hebrew Bible descended… Read More
Q&A 1557—Why weren’t Ruth—and David—excluded from Israel?
Posted: July 5, 2019
In Deut 23:3 God gives the command that no descendants of the Moabites even to the tenth generation may enter the assembly of the Lord. I was wondering if Ruth… Read More
Diplomado en Consejería Bíblica 2019
Posted: July 4, 2019
Agosto-Octubre 2019 La Fundación Proyecto Esdras, A. C., en alianza con In-Motion Counseling, presentan este curso especial sobre Consejería Bíblica en sus dos modalidades: División Entrenamiento para Ministros: MTA-BL03 Principios… Read More
Control, part 3
Posted: July 3, 2019
TRUST Rom 15:14—confident in church to handle issues of church. I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent… Read More
Control, part 2
Posted: July 3, 2019
4) Abuse of authority Leaders have authority, but not to create their own rules, or in the language of Jeremiah, “to rule by their own authority” (Jer 5:30-31). “Giving up… Read More
Control, part 1
Posted: July 3, 2019
Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so… Read More
These Guys Don’t Panic at Tough Questions
Posted: July 2, 2019
In his own words, comedian Ricky Gervais went “from Jesus-loving Christian to fun-loving infidel in one afternoon.” Ricky Gervais was 8 years old. He was drawing the Crucifixion as part… Read More
When the terrorists came for us | The Christian Chronicle
Posted: July 2, 2019
After his wife became Muslim to appease militant Islamists, he fled with their children — and found Christ. Erik Tryggestad President and CEO DONO-MANGA, Chad — In this rural African village,… Read More
What Does the Bible Say About Being Transgender?
Posted: July 1, 2019
Two New AMAZING Videos From SIW! P.S. Put your seat belt on! #1. What Does the Bible Say bout Being Transgender? By Brandon Redler 3.3 min #2. Why I Left My Transgender Life Behind … Read More
CLEAN – talk 10, the Four Lepers (= OT Character podcast 59)
Posted: July 1, 2019
To listen to lesson 10 in the CLEAN series, The Four Samaritan Lepers (10 minutes), click on the play arrow. Or you can download the podcast by right clicking here and choosing ‘save… Read More
Is animal suffering part of God’s good creation? – Common-questions – BioLogos
Posted: June 28, 2019
If God is good, and loving, and powerful, how can we account for the enormous amount of animal (and human) suffering caused by predation, disease, and natural disasters? Traditionally, Christians… Read More
Who Are We? (What we Christ-followers prefer to be called)
Posted: June 26, 2019
WHO ARE WE? SELF-TEST: Rank the following terms in order of usage–what you usually call yourself. Christian Disciple Brother Saint Many of us answered 1-2-3-4, right? But in the New… Read More
Subject: 4 Things I Would Like to Say to Taylor Swift as a Pastor
Posted: June 25, 2019
Renew.org 4 Things I Would Like to Say to Taylor Swift as a Pastor June was a big month for Taylor Swift as she embraced LGBTQ month,… Read More
“We Are Church,” by Francis Chan
Posted: June 23, 2019
History — We Are Church A Brief History of We Are Church. Excerpt from Letters to the Church, by Francis Chan. Why I Left My Megachurch In 1994, when I… Read More
“Think about it…”
Posted: June 21, 2019
Two twin boys were raised by an alcoholic father. One grew up to be an alcoholic and when asked what happened he said “I watched my father”. The other grew… Read More
Q&A 1556—Divorced couples and adultery
Posted: June 21, 2019
Is it a sin for a divorced couple to have sex even if there was no adultery? —S.K. Yes, since they are no longer married (by definition). Good question, though. Divorce… Read More
Opinion | The Day Christian Fundamentalism Was Born – The New York Times
Posted: June 18, 2019
How a meeting in Philadelphia changed American religion forever. By Matthew Avery Sutton Mr. Sutton, a professor of history at Washington State University, is the author of the forthcoming “Double… Read More
Church Intensive
Posted: June 18, 2019
LEARN CHURCH PLANTING FROM OUR PASTORS a note from francis Haven’t you always been a bit confused about Church? You read about the unstoppable power, miraculous love, and outrageous sacrifice… Read More
The 5 points that led me to leave Calvinism, by Dr. Leighton Flowers
Posted: June 17, 2019
Many have asked what specific points led me away from Calvinism. Being a Professor of Theology that once affirmed TULIP gives me a unique perspective on this subject. However, I… Read More
TheHistoricFaith.com by Sattler College and Scroll Publishing
Posted: June 17, 2019
We are excited to introduce you to TheHistoricFaith.com . The Historic Faith is the result of a partnership between Sattler College and Scroll Publishing. This project seeks to promote the precepts… Read More
Our Manhood Crisis – An Interview with Robert Lewis
Posted: June 17, 2019
Something ominous is happening to young men today; it’s a crisis…and strangely, we are not talking about it. A recent USA Today article captured the essence of the crisis with the article “Boy Crisis Threatens America’s… Read More
Who Was? Series
Posted: June 16, 2019
With over 150 titles, Penguin’s Who Was? series tells the incredible stories of trailblazers, legends, innovators, and creators. Play the Who Was Adventure game! Download the Who Was series app… Read More
Trent Butler on Judges
Posted: June 15, 2019
Excerpt from Trent Butler, The Word Biblical Commentary 8, Judges (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 2009), lxxx. ……”Three tribes… receive the brunt of the author’s judgment in Judges. Benjamin could not take… Read More
Father’s Day Challenge
Posted: June 14, 2019
Father’s Day is just around the corner. Covenant Eyes would love to see all the dads out there take the Dad Challenge. What better time to start this challenge but… Read More
Two New iFaith Videos from Hebrews
Posted: June 14, 2019
Two video sermons taken from the book of Hebrews: iFaith 19 (Heb A), “Christ is Supreme,” and iFaith 20 (Heb B), “The Truth about Falling Away”. Listen to either or… Read More
The Lost Interview with Cathy Hammond
Posted: June 14, 2019
My wife Cathy passed away on August 13, 2018. We were married for 28 incredible years. Through our Strength in Weakness ministry, we traveled the world telling our story and… Read More
Why Facts Don’t Change Our Minds | The New Yorker
Posted: June 12, 2019
New discoveries about the human mind show the limitations of reason. The vaunted human capacity for reason may have more to do with winning arguments than with thinking straight. Illustration… Read More
The preachers getting rich from poor Americans – BBC News
Posted: June 12, 2019
Televangelist Todd Coontz has a well-worn routine: he dresses in a suit, pulls out a Bible and urges viewers to pledge a very specific amount of money. “Don’t delay, don’t… Read More
Responses to Spring 2019 BST (Israel)
Posted: June 11, 2019
Participants on the May/June 2019 Israel tour came from Canada, the Bahamas, the U.K., U.S., Cambodia, Zambia, South Africa, Singapore, and Australia. Here are their responses: “This tour brought… Read More
Einstein and God
Posted: June 11, 2019
“The more I study science, the more I believe in God.” “I want to know how God created this world. I am not interested in this or… Read More
Miracle Soul (John Clayton)
Posted: June 11, 2019
For over 200 years people have used soil from the churchyard of Sacred Heart Church in the Boho Highlands of rural Northern Ireland as a remedy for a variety of… Read More
A Discipleship Group You Can Start Tomorrow
Posted: June 10, 2019
Friends, As a Renew subscriber you likely aspire to be a disciple who makes disciples. We want to help make that as easy as possible for you. This is… Read More
Sexual Ethics, Homosexuality and Thoughts on the Passing of my Wife (by Guy Hammond)
Posted: June 7, 2019
Today I get to sit down with the founder of Strength in Weakness Ministries, Guy Hammond, to discuss how to live a life of holiness when you’re same-sex attracted. -… Read More
Q&A 1555—Did Jesus have two sisters, or more?
Posted: June 7, 2019
You say the minimum number of Jesus’ siblings is seven. Matthew 13 says his brothers are James, Joseph, Simon, Judas, and also mentions “all of his sisters.” Four brothers are… Read More
White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism
Posted: May 29, 2019
Like many of you, I enjoy a good book. Apart from occasional espionage novels, nearly all of my reading is Christian literature, theology, history, and science. Yet now and again,… Read More
Q&A 1554— Does God have a soul?
Posted: May 24, 2019
“Your New Moon festivals and your appointed feasts my soul hates. They have become a burden to me; I am weary of bearing them” (Isa 1:14). I also find something… Read More
Did the Samaritans Get a Bum Rap?
Posted: May 20, 2019
If you read the Bible—especially the New Testament—it’s pretty easy to come away with a bad impression of Samaritans. In fact, most of us would probably rank the Samaritans just… Read More
Centering Christ in the Modern Wedding, by Jennifer Francis
Posted: May 15, 2019
Centering Christ in a Modern Wedding Traditional white weddings with vows exchanged at the altar and church bells signaling holy matrimony seem few and far between these days. Indeed, church… Read More
David & Bathsheba, by Sara Barton
Posted: May 13, 2019
Amazing keynote message given at the Harbor Pepperdine Bible Lectures on Thursday, May 2, 2019 in Malibu, CA. Click here to watch.
Gospel Alliance (book recommendation)
Posted: May 11, 2019
From the book: “I want to show that the gospel and our faith response must not be reduced to the cross, or even to the cross and resurrection. The gospel… Read More
“Long Distance Faith,” by Douglas Jacoby
Posted: May 10, 2019
Sermon given at the North River Church in Atlanta on Sunday, May 12, 2019. https://vimeo.com/335747367
Q&A 1553—Should scientists study prayer?
Posted: May 10, 2019
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Four in five Americans believe in the healing power of prayer, according to surveys, and even a majority of medical doctors say that miraculous healing sometimes occurs…. Read More
COC & ICOC: The Rift & The Repair-Audio & Notes
Posted: May 9, 2019
Two classes given by Douglas Jacoby & Nick Zola at “The Harbor” Pepperdine Bible Lectures, on May 3, 2019. The two audio lessons are followed by the Powerpoint presentation with… Read More
Is the Holy Land the Promised Land? | The Christian Chronicle
Posted: May 9, 2019
Is the Holy Land the Promised Land? Leading evangelical supporters of President Trump tout the modern state of Israel as a fulfillment of biblical prophecy. Scholars in Churches of Christ… Read More
Video 2: Can You Be Gay and a Christian?
Posted: May 6, 2019
Can You Be Gay and a Christian? See why over 100,000 people have attended a Strength in Weakness workshop! SIW HITS THE ROAD Madrid, Spain Guy Hammond May… Read More
How a U.S. Church Baptized 3729 People in One Year
Posted: May 4, 2019
Friends, Many Renew leaders have success stories to share. We want God to get the credit in these stories. We also want to learn from these stories how… Read More
Where Do Moral Laws Come From? | Stand to Reason
Posted: May 3, 2019
Where Do Moral Laws Come From? We can be good without God, but would goodness even exist without God? Greg Koukl explains the argument for God from morality. https://www.str.org/video/where-do-moral-laws-come
Terrorists in Burkina Faso Execute Six at Pentecostal Church
Posted: May 3, 2019
(UPDATED) Assemblies of God pastor preferred to “die for his faith rather than leave the village” he served for decades. Kate Shellnutt [Updated May 3 with further remarks from Assemblies… Read More
May News from Tyndale House
Posted: May 3, 2019
May News from Tyndale House Dear friends, At Tyndale House we are passionate about supporting evangelical biblical scholars, and ensuring that Christians across the world benefit from their work. In… Read More
“When God is Silent” interview with Dr. Douglas Jacoby, Parts 1&2
Posted: May 2, 2019
1st part of our interview with Dr. Douglas Jacoby It was very exciting to be able to have a conversation with Douglas on such a needed subject. We all go… Read More
Introducing … Language of God
Posted: May 2, 2019
A BioLogos podcast on science and faith The new BioLogos podcast is live! We’re very excited about this latest way to extend the BioLogos mission. Long-form audio broadcasts have become… Read More
Video 3: When Your Kids Tell You They Are Gay
Posted: May 1, 2019
#3. “When Your Kids Tell You They Are Gay” Steve Bowen 4 min #1. “Is It a Sin If You Feel Gay?” Guy Hammond 3.5 min #2. “Can You Be… Read More
CLEAN – talk 9 (= OT Character Podcast 58, Uzziah pt. II)
Posted: May 1, 2019
To listen to lesson 9 in the CLEAN series, The Leprosy of Uzziah (9 minutes), click on the play arrow. Or you can download the podcast by right clicking here and choosing… Read More
Q&A 1552—Do the “watchman” passages apply to all Christians?
Posted: April 26, 2019
Do the “watchman” passages apply to all Christians? I have heard it preached—and I myself have preached—that when we fail to take advantage of an opportunity to share Christ, the… Read More
Tolerant, Non-judgmental, and Loving: What Do These Have to Do With Discipling Relationships?
Posted: April 24, 2019
Dear Discipleship-first Tribe, Disciples of Jesus are facing a subtle but pervasive challenge in North America right now. Left unchecked, this challenge erodes the convictions of everyday disciples, leaders, and… Read More
The Samaritan Passover
Posted: April 23, 2019
Growing up in suburban Cincinnati, sacrifices were not part of everyday life. I know, some of you are probably shocked by that revelation. Sacrifices were something I read about in the Bible… Read More
2019 BioLogos Conference: Videos
Posted: April 19, 2019
Browse the presentations from the 2019 BioLogos Conference!
State of the Bible 2019: Trends in Engagement
Posted: April 19, 2019
Each year, Barna examines behaviors and beliefs related to the Bible among American adults, a study conducted in partnership with American Bible Society. In the 2019 “State of the Bible” report,… Read More
Is It a Sin if You Are Homosexually Attracted?
Posted: April 18, 2019
See why over 100,000 people have attended a Strength in Weakness workshop! SIW HITS THE ROAD Madrid, Spain Guy Hammond May 5, 2019 La Iglesia de los Disćipulos… Read More
5 Ways to Disciple People in Light of Easter Weekend
Posted: April 17, 2019
I am a senior pastor; I have been one for more than 30 years. So, I know the subtle pressure that can sneak in: to produce, provide and program for… Read More
Q&A 1551—Whatever Happened to the Apostles (after N.T. times)?
Posted: April 12, 2019
We don’t have that much information on the lives of the apostles, apart from a few passages on Peter and John, and of course lots on Paul. But even then… Read More
Stress Mess: 3 In 5 Millennials Say Life More Stressful Now Than Ever Before
Posted: April 9, 2019
From slow WiFi to broken phone screens to zero “likes” on social media, everyday stressors are causing young adults to have struggles falling asleep 138 nights each year, researchers say…. Read More
How Apologetics Addresses the Six Reasons Why Young People Leave the Church
Posted: April 4, 2019
From Stand to Reason (www.str.org) After a five-year study, Barna Research president David Kinnaman found that 6 in 10 young people leave the church either permanently or for an extended… Read More
Conversion is not your mission, pope tells Catholics in Morocco
Posted: April 1, 2019
From Reuters News: Conversion is not your mission, pope tells Catholics in Morocco http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-pope-morocco/conversion-is-not-your-mission-pope-tells-catholics-in-morocco-idUKKCN1RC0FJ Pope Francis told the tiny Catholic community in predominantly Muslim Morocco on Sunday that their mission… Read More
Cannabis use linked with psychosis (Lancet)
Posted: March 31, 2019
Various factors feed into psychosis, like stress and personal genetic makeup. Yet there is strong evidence that use of cannabis is leading to significant mental health problems in Europe—the higher… Read More
Why I am NOT a Gay Christian, by Guy Hammond
Posted: March 29, 2019
Why I am NOT a Gay Christian By Guy Hammond Executive Director, Strength in Weakness Ministries “You are not being your authentic self, you’re a liar and a fraud.” “You… Read More
Responses to Ezekiel series
Posted: March 29, 2019
The following are responses to the Ezekiel series (10 installments), which appears in the newsletters of 20 & 27 Feb; 6, 13, 20, and 27 Mar; and 3, 10, 17,… Read More
Q&A 1550—Is God’s Forgiveness Really Unconditional?
Posted: March 29, 2019
I recently heard you state that God’s forgiveness is conditional—which made me feel uncomfortable. Is this a widespread idea? I don’t think I’ve ever heard that before. It would help… Read More
Scriptures that Prove God Condones Homosexuality, by Guy Hammond
Posted: March 22, 2019
A List of All Scriptures that Proves God Condones Homosexuality By Guy Hammond Executive Director; Strength in Weakness Ministries Does God love homosexuals? Of course, God loves everyone! But where… Read More
The Burden-Free Step in Discussing Christian Beliefs, by Greg Koukl
Posted: March 21, 2019
Greg explains the importance of listening and encourages Christians to remember that the one who makes the claim bears the burden. Play the 3-minute video by clicking here, and/or read… Read More
How Universalism, ‘the Opiate of the Theologians,’ Went Mainstream
Posted: March 20, 2019
Image: Illustration by Rick Szuecs / Source image: Courtesy of Baker Publishing Group Michael McClymond decries the rising popularity of an idea Christians have rejected for most of church history…. Read More
Modern-day ‘sticks and stones’ | The Christian Chronicle
Posted: March 20, 2019
Photo from Pixabay.com Feb. 28, 2019 Modern-day ‘sticks and stones’ Before you type, maybe you should ask, ‘What would Jesus tweet?’ By Chellie Ison ‘Sticks and stones may break my bones,… Read More
An integrated media evangelism solution for churches
Posted: March 18, 2019
“… so that by all possible means I might save some.” 1 Cor 9:22 Does your church have an integrated and compelling online presence to impact your community? Your church leader needs to focus… Read More
What Does the Bible Teach About Baptism?
Posted: March 18, 2019
Dear Renew Friends, This month we are emphasizing what the Bible teaches about baptism – and a key resource on baptism. Let me explain why this may be important to you… Read More