Jesus’ two surprising teachings about church

Trust & Obey, Week 2: Matthew 16 & 18, Part 2 As a pastor of twenty-three years, I’ve had some surprising experiences during worship services. For example, one time a wasp landed right on my Bible as I was preaching! People seated close to the front saw it all. I swatted at it, and itContinue reading “Jesus’ two surprising teachings about church”

The Bible’s helpful teachings about confronting others – Holding others accountable, Part 4

I hate confrontation. I think most people also hate confrontation. When I have to confront someone, I can delay and avoid like a champ. Then when I can wait no longer, and the confrontation actually happens, I can say far less than I ought to have said. My emotions and fears take over. I can physically shake. I hate it. But ifContinue reading “The Bible’s helpful teachings about confronting others – Holding others accountable, Part 4”

A watchman must speak God’s words – Ezekiel 3:16-27, Part 3

How do you feel about confrontation? Most people I talk with don’t like it. I personally don’t like it, and I can work very hard to avoid it. That includes confronting others, and being confronted myself. Maybe you know what I mean. Confrontation is both difficult to give and receive, and few people do eitherContinue reading “A watchman must speak God’s words – Ezekiel 3:16-27, Part 3”