Category Reformation21

Lord Sabaoth His Name

For many Christians, a favourite hymn is the one penned by Martin Luther, “A Mighty Fortress.” On Reformation Day—and throughout the year—the church sings this hymn with great passion. After a sermon celebrating the power and faithfulness of God our…

A Baby’s Catechism

A few thoughts about catechizing children My wife Emily and I found significant challenges in feeding our first baby solid food. Even if we could get her started on the process, it seemed to her too much bother to ever…

The Comeback Kids and The Fools Who Follow

Perhaps you are becoming increasingly disturbed by the comeback stories of preachers who seem to be obviously disqualified from the ministry but continue pretending to be shepherds. Or maybe you wonder how some men seem to be immune from proper…

The Church’s Great Need

A 2023 poll revealed that 84% of Americans are angrier than a generation ago, with 42% of those polled admitting to feeling angrier themselves. A recent Pew Research Center survey shows nearly half (47%) of US adults believe public behavior…

Progressing in the Pulpit

Every pastor probably recalls with a shudder his first attempt at a sermon. My first sermon was in seminary back in 2001 when the homiletics professor assigned me Romans 2:12-16. It’s about how those “who sin apart from the law…

The Courage of Erika Kirk

The Charlie Kirk memorial has elicited many reactions, as one would expect. Given the length and size of the occasion, there will always be parts of the memorial that we might wish to change. Notwithstanding, there were some memorable moments…

An Elder Named Mr. Hudson

For a time, I worshipped with a small Presbyterian Church in America congregation in a suburb just inside the beltway of a major city. Attendance varied from a low in the upper teens to forty plus on a well attended…