Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Wednesday's Catch: 'Ed Stetzer: Discipleship Reimagined' And More



Ed Stetzer: Discipleship Reimagined
If we are to recapture the biblical vision of discipleship, we must rediscover what it looked like in the first century through Jesus’ ministry and the life of the early church. How did Jesus make disciples? How did the early church engage in discipleship in a way that transformed individuals, communities and even civilizations? The answer calls us to shift the way we think about discipleship today. Here are five key mindset shifts that can help us recover a robust biblical vision of disciple making in our era.

8 Signs Your Church May Be Closing Soon
There are eight clear signs your church may be closing soon. If a church has four or more of these signs present, it is likely in deep trouble. Indeed, it could be facing a church closing sooner than almost anyone in the church would anticipate.

The Time of Worship Services on the Website Is Not Correct: The Unforced Error Series
An “unforced error” is a term borrowed from sports, especially tennis, meaning a mistake made due to one’s own lapse rather than being forced by an opponent. In everyday language, it refers to an avoidable mistake or misstep, typically resulting from a lack of attention or care rather than external pressure. Thom and Jess examine one of the most common unforced errors in this podcast: the time of worship services on the website is not correct.
Also See: Failure to Have a Parking Lot Greeter: The Unforced Error Series
'Omnishambles' May Delay Canterbury Selection
The selection of the new Archbishop of Canterbury may be delayed by the Diocese of Canterbury’s failure to follow consistent procedures for selecting its three members on the Crown Nominations Commission. The other 14 members of the commission were chosen by March, and the group is set to hold its first meeting in May.

MAGA Attacks Church Over Donald Trump Rebuke: 'Funds MUST Be Pulled'
A firestorm has erupted on the American right after the Episcopal Church said it is refusing a directive from the federal government to help resettle white South Africans who were granted refugee status.
Also See: While denying refuge to Black Africans, Trump welcomes white South Africans
Anti-hunger advocates slam House Republicans' proposed cut to SNAP
A House Republican proposal to dramatically reduce federal funding to the nation’s largest anti-hunger program would have a disastrous effect on low-income families, nutrition advocates say.
Also See: Proposed GOP cuts could jeopardize SNAP users, farmers and state budgets
Priest dismissed for Nazi-like salute is restored to service by ACNA jurisdiction
‘I do not personally believe The Rev. Robinson is a good representative of the Anglican Church in North America,’ said ACNA Archbishop Steve Wood.
Also See: Calvin Robinson Receives a One-Year License
What Is Nestorianism? The Theotokos Debate Explained
Nestorianism is an ancient heresy that speaks about Christ as if he is two persons instead of one, that is, the one Lord Jesus Christ. The flashpoint in the debate over Nestorianism was Nestorius’s denial that mary bore God in her womb and thus was theotokos, God-bearer. The councils of Ephesus and Chalcedon in 431 and 451 formally condemned Nestorianism.

10 Ways to Care for the Emotional Health of Your Congregation During a Pastoral Transition
Pastoral transitions are pivotal moments that deeply affect a church’s spiritual and emotional health. Barry Howard highlights that by acknowledging emotions, communicating clearly, honoring the outgoing pastor, and reinforcing mission, church leaders can guide congregations with wisdom and care. Intentional leadership rooted in prayer, unity, and hope ensures a faithful path forward during seasons of change.

Expository Preaching—The New Golden Calf
Like many preachers, one of my favorite things to read are sermons from the past. Whether it's Martyn Lloyd-Jones or the golden-mouthed John Chrysostom, I’m always intrigued by how faithful men throughout the ages have communicated God's Word to their hearers. But also, like many of you, I find myself struck by how different much of our modern preaching is from that of the saints of old.

Effective Young Adult Ministry Depends on Small Groups
No matter your church size or context, there are things your ministry can do to engage the young adult population in your community.

Are Children a Blessing? A Response to Declining Birthrates and a Crisis of Meaning
Many see children as optional or inconvenient. The Bible gives a different vision: children are a sign of hope and a blessing from God.

You are the light of the world and the salt of the earth: the power of Christian distinctiveness
As a Christian, there may be times when you feel small, powerless, or even question your place in the world. You may ask yourself, “What difference do I make?” But here’s a truth to hold on to: your presence, your faith, and your walk with Christ matter more than you think.

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