Monthly Archives: December 2011

Review: “Who Rules the Church?: Examining Congregational Leadership and Church Government” by Gerald Cowen

Posted on December 23, 2011 by

The foreword of this book, written by well-known Southern Baptist pastor Jerry Vines, builds our anticipation of a “thorough study of the whole pastor-elder issue,” one that is “thoroughly researched and well done” and that utilizes “extensive knowledge of and … Continue reading →

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The heart of the story: Jesus

Posted on December 22, 2011 by

Christmas is just a few days away. Could there be a more perfect time to discuss the New Testament gospels? The biblical story begins with creation and ends with the restoration of God’s creation. But the heart of the story … Continue reading →

Posted in Taking Root, theology | Tagged , , , , , | 14 Comments

Review: “Elders and Leaders: God’s Plan for Leading the Church” by Gene Getz

Posted on December 16, 2011 by

I have great respect for Gene Getz. He’s been a faithful pastor, church-planter and educator, and has written other books of value to the body of Christ. But one cannot allow respect for an author to prevent a frank and … Continue reading →

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Following the story: God and his people, part 1

Posted on December 15, 2011 by

Every time it happens I get a little frustrated. You’ve probably seen this too. Someone on a TV talk show is trying to discredit a biblical teaching. So they say something like, ‘Yeah, well, David not only committed adultery but … Continue reading →

Posted in church life, Taking Root, theology | Tagged , , , , , | 15 Comments

Building bridges: Cultural differences in the letters to the churches

Posted on December 1, 2011 by

Some Christians—driven by a zeal to be faithful to Scripture—seem like they’re trying to escape the present day and somehow return to the 1st century. This can not only be frustrating for them and off-putting to those who love them, … Continue reading →

Posted in church life, Taking Root, theology | Tagged , , , , , , | 15 Comments