After the Lord’s church began in the city of Jerusalem, it expanded throughout the Roman Empire until it reached the capital city of Rome. The inspired history recorded by Luke ends here (Acts 28:16, 30-31), but the message of the gospel continued to spread throughout the world. Wherever it was preached, and people were converted, […]
Continue reading...Is It Possible to End Poverty?
Many people – both Christians and non-Christians – are concerned about the poor. Individuals and families provide money and resources to help those who are in need. Charitable organizations have been established to provide assistance to the less fortunate. Many government programs are funded supposedly for the purpose of ending poverty. Yet poverty still exists. Some hold […]
Continue reading...Book Review: The Great Dechurching
Much has been said about the changing religious landscape in our culture over the last several years. Society as a whole is becoming less religious. Among those who continue to practice religion, many are attending worship services less frequently. There is a rising number of “nones” – those whose religion is “nothing in particular.” This […]
Continue reading...What Will Destroy a Congregation
If we were to think of potential threats to our local churches, a number of things could be added to the list. Paul made a list like this near the end of his second letter to the church in Corinth. Notice what the apostle wrote: “For I am afraid that perhaps when I come I […]
Continue reading...Sowing and Reaping
“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap” (Galatians 6:7). God created this world, which operates according to the rules He has established. This was part of the foundation of His promise to Noah after the flood: “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, and […]
Continue reading...The Christian and the “Victim Mentality”
A phrase that has become regularly used in our modern culture is “victim mentality.” When we hear this phrase, what does it refer to? Consider the following definition: “Victim mentality is an acquired personality trait in which a person tends to recognize or consider themselves a victim of the negative actions of others, and to […]
Continue reading...Withdrawing from Those Who Have Departed
When it comes to our responsibilities within the local church, exercising church discipline is often one of the more difficult commands to obey. This could be because we do not want to break ties with our erring brethren. It might be because we do not want to be accused of being judgmental or unloving. Perhaps […]
Continue reading...