Monday, April 24, 2023

Monday's Catch: 'The Life Cycle of a Pastor (Updated)' And More


For almost 30 years, we have tracked the tenure of pastors. Though some of the categories are the same, the time periods and the descriptions of the periods continue to evolve. We are now in a post-pandemic, post-Christian era. The changes are significant.

7 Signs of a Controlling Pastor
...many controlling pastors never really know they are one. They may actually even believe they are being good leaders—making sure things go well for the organization.

When a Pastor Falls, What Then?
Whether they are simply being made more public through social media or there is an actual increase in pastoral failings, it seems we are being inundated with stories of pastors having affairs, abusing children, misusing church funds, falling prey to pride or anger, abusing power and authority, and more.

Generosity is Not Driven by Income
Our recent study shows that the giving-to-income ratio remains consistent across income levels.

‘Suzume’ Opens a Door to the Spiritual Discipline of Delight
To journey out of nostalgia and amnesia, we need to pay attention to God’s presence in our present.

How J. K. Rowling Played, then Lost, the Polarization Game<br/> As Witch Trials makes a compelling case that the internet has helped erode free exchange of ideas, it neglects to observe how Rowling herself often played into this dynamic.

Students seeking retribution for professors' speech is on the rise amid cancel culture: report
Attempts to get college professors fired for their views have increased dramatically in recent years with the ascent of “cancel culture,” according to a new report.

What Not to Do in Your Relationship with the Holy Spirit
...here are three things that we should avoid as we seek to enjoy communion with the Holy Spirit.

The Ministry of the Pew: Sunday Morning for Normal Christians
If you know and love the Lord Jesus Christ, you have something to contribute to your local church every Sunday morning.

Why Rock Star Worship Leaders Are Getting Fired
Some megachurches have been hiring rock star worship leaders (RSWLs) and are finding out they’re not all they’re cracked up to be. A megachurch is a unique breeding ground for a RSWL—he probably couldn’t survive in a smaller ministry.

From Fear to Friendship: How Itroverts Can Find Community in Small Groups
Jeremy Sauve offers four ways to move introverts from fear to friendship.

12 Things Not To Say in a Small Group
Ben Reed identifies 12 statements which can wreck the community small group leaders are striving for in their small group.

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