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Pure Religion

What do we mean when we ask for that “old time religion”? From a strictly chronological view, “old time religion” is relative. Depending on what people want to emphasize, they think of “old time” as starting at different points. Some are thinking of fiery preaching, so “old time” to them is the era of their favorite preacher. Some are thinking of music, so “old time” to them represents Fanny Crosby’s days. Some are thinking of other issues—such as modesty or abolishing liquor, so “old time” to them is whatever was the peak moment for that issue. We could reasonably conclude that in the not-too-distant future, people will look back to 2012 and think of today as “old time.” So if we want the “old time religion,” I suggest we look back to the first century and notice how James defined pure religion that pleases God:

From Beirut to Sydney: The Story of Pastor Bill Zaydan

How God used a war to save a young man, plant a church, and reunite a family.

The Most Powerful Parenting Practice

“Something’s going wrong in the heart of my child, and I’m not sure what to do!” Ever been there, parent?

The Three-Pronged Purity of Religion

We want people to know and obey the truth we preach, but we must not stoop to unscriptural methods to accomplish that purpose.

Purity of Motives in Preaching

God’s work should never be done to seek vainglory. There is only One who deserves glory—the Lord Jesus Himself.

Helping Hurting People

We cannot overlook the truth, however, that Jesus also physically touched many people’s lives when He walked on this earth as the God-man. The gospels are filled with stories of Jesus helping and healing brokenhearted, sick or afflicted people. They knew Jesus not only as Redeemer but also as Healer. His ministry was one that continually dealt with hurting people.

Failing Forward

In our Christian walk, we each fall. I wish we didn’t. I wish I could give you a lesson on how to never fail. That would, however, present some challenges, the first being that I’m not in the least qualified to write it. The second challenge is that no one else is, either. But, since we all fail (repeatedly), wouldn’t it be great if each time, we could fall forward—learning from our mistakes and gaining ground even by failure? Believe it or not, there is a way to fail successfully.

Churchquakes: Keeping Unity in the Local Church

“To live above with saints we love, that will be glory. To live below, with the saints we know, that’s a different story.” Whether it be your family, friendships, or church, the Word of God can guide you to peace and unity.

Interview: Kurt Skelly on Sermon Preparation

Kurt Skelly is pastor of Harvest Baptist Church in Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania. We asked him about his sermon preparation and what it means to develop a thoroughly biblical message.

Ministry Toolbox: Keeping It Personal

The modern model of the office of a pastor seems to be that of a spiritual executive. The vision is of a man sitting in his office, reading reports, conducting meetings, and issuing instructions. It is true that if we are to “look well to the state of our flock,” inspection and direction are necessary. But the Bible model is one of service. The word “minister” literally means “servant.” The larger and more complex our ministries become, the easier it is to do more “executing” and less serving. How can we keep it personal? Here are a few thoughts:
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