No one begins in the ministry full-grown, all-wise, capable in all things. At first, we were all newbies, beginners, novices, learners. Here’s a list of 12 of my mistakes from pastoring and the wisdom to help prevent them.
2020 Continues: Hurricane Season
Coming as a shock to no one, 2020 is living up to forecasts for being one of the busiest storm seasons on record! Should a significant hurricane hit Houston—this year especially—there will be a palpable sense of hopelessness in the city. The Church must be prepared to minister to those inside and outside its walls.
The Trellis and the Vine
Reaching Your Cross-Cultural Neighbors from a Social Distance
Thanks to COVID-19, many Christians might feel at a loss for how to live out the Great Commission call in day-to-day life. How could we possibly go and make disciples of all nations when simply engaging with friends, family, and our church community seems so difficult? However, you can find creative ways to reach the nations near you—even in a global pandemic.
Pastor, God's Got This
Digital Orality: New Signs of Spiritual Opportunities
Almost everyone uses forms or principles of orality—whether or not they recognize it. Experiential education, action learning, guided discovery models, narrative methods, storytelling, and many other oral art forms are a part of the orality domain. With the current global pandemic, it’s necessary to rely more on modern, digital technology for communicating and training for advancing the gospel.
Pastors, Brothers, and Friends—Kevin Rizer and Parris Patrick
Some say, "a good friend is hard to find." But with over 300 diverse churches in our association alone, that shouldn't be the case for pastors and ministry leaders in Houston. One great example of pastoral friendship is that of Parris Patrick and Kevin Rizer. What began as a simple invite to lunch quickly became a true, lasting friendship.
Your Church's Leadership Structure May Not Be the Problem
The New Testament is conspicuously silent with respect to details on church governance and decision-making., but it does provide teachings that speak powerfully to the organizational needs we face. An imperfect system filled with people of integrity, humility, and grace will function far better than a perfect system filled with those who lack these qualities.
