Healthy Congregations

“But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine.” —Titus 2:1 When St. Paul writes to the young pastors Timothy and Titus, he repeatedly implores them to hold on to and teach sound doctrine. Commentators often note that the expression would be best translated “healthy doctrine.” J.N.D. Kelly writes of the...

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Suffering Is Not a Surprise

According to 1 Peter 3:15, Christians are called to be prepared to give an answer or defense (Greek word for apology, as in apologetics) for the hope that we have. But in this age of shrill voices and all CAPS and exclamation points (!!!) on Twitter and Facebook, we are...

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LCEF Church Improvement Loan Brings Long-Dreamed-For Accessibility to Zion Lutheran Church in Maryland Heights

Most people don’t necessarily see a direct connection between a congregation’s business administration and the individuals worshiping on Sunday morning. However, when churches and other buildings receive repairs or updates, the impact can change lives. For example, it’s been almost six years since Joyce Hicks entered the fellowship hall of...

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Mission Grant Application Process Now Open

My “10:02 Prayers” this week have been for the Holy Spirit to stir up surprises in new mission initiatives among our congregations. In fact, I’m challenging all of us to use the month of February to pray daily at 10:02 (mindful Jesus’ call to prayer in Luke 10:02) for new...

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