Pastoral

We often think of courage simply as a characteristic some sturdy folk are born with. While some are more temperamentally thick-skinned than others, true courage is a gift of the gospel given to ordinary, timid, naturally nervy Christians. True courage is something extraordinary and inexplicable to the world. It is a supernatural marker of grace that makes believers stand out in an anxious world

We are not just called to a glorious task but to a glorious Person. … What is beholding the glory of the Lord but believing the gospel? What is gazing on the face of Christ but receiving his benevolent smile and his gracious kindness?

Children and young people need adults who can model a deep love and joy in God, who can ooze a life full of Jesus, and who can show them what it means to keep in step with the Spirit.

Only after seeing the glory of God in Christ, his own unworthiness, and the stunning beauty of salvation will he find a message to preach that is as “a fire shut in his bones” and cause him to delight in preaching. Only from this place can he genuinely be in a position to minister to anyone.

Crowds lined the streets, hoping to catch a glimpse of the olivewood casket as it made its way through the streets of south London. On top was a large pulpit Bible opened at Isaiah 45:22: “Look unto Me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth.” It was Thursday, February 11, 1892, and the body of Charles Haddon Spurgeon was being taken for burial.

Believers have failed to remember that the tie that binds them together is the same cord that was used to pull them up out of the horrible pit: the gospel.

Armed with his irresistible kindnesses, the Gentle and Humble One has been leading me toward establishing and growing pastoral relationships with like-hearted men in my area. Why? Because I need it.

Ian Shaw considers why the Reformers are not known for their missionary activity, and asks how their approach can shape our ministry today. 

Dan Hames interviews Nathan Fellingham about study with Union, worship, and theology.

Tony Reinke outlines what he believes to be the heart of John Newton's pastoral care, theology, and letter writing.