Commentary

The message of Revelation needs to be shared, and as a pastor, you are in the prime position to teach it to your congregation.

In order to have a Biblically clear mind, we need a Biblically developed worldview filter that can sort out the good from the bad, the Biblical from the secular.

Our Heavenly citizenship is a gift that should change our perspective on how we live out our lives.

Indulging your children when they throw a temper tantrum is unhelpful and counter-productive.

If you are fearful entering this school year, then turn to God’s Word for hope. Within the pages of the Bible, there are precious promises for scared, weak, and needy people to grab hold of.

Let’s put our hearts and minds into what the Lord has for us. Let’s do it wholeheartedly for the Lord.

Churches need to realize that although the role of a pastor’s wife can be rewarding and special, it can also be lonely.

As school starts this year, create a new tradition at supper for each person in your family to think about someone at their school or workplace they can pray for, then pray for them as a family during supper time.

Mike and David discuss Mike’s new book, No Contest: Overcoming a Competitive Spirit.

Your pastor might have several degrees hanging on his wall from prestigious seminaries and educational institutions. But rest assured, he has never taken a class …

By Bob Cowman I tend to see opportunity at the strangest times and in the weirdest ways. If you read the news or follow the …

In this 2018 video, listen to Aaron Lavender, pastor of Grace Baptist Church, Kansas City, Missouri, speak on “The Incompatibility of Christianity and Racism.”

Mike and Bob discuss the many issues surrounding the difficult decision to leave a church.

As Christians, we must be prepared to confront both racist actions and racist attitudes, because sin originates in the heart.

Mike interviews Steve DeWitt on the subject of Christ’s supremacy and beauty.

The question isn’t so much whether or not to utilize social media, but what we are trying to say and why. Our communication is to be seasoned as with salt—that implies that we are putting in some thought beforehand.

“Can we gather yet as a church again?” A national representative of a fellowship of churches does not have the definite answer for each local church. But thankfully, the principles of God’s sufficient Word do.

What should we be considering, as Christians, when we ponder and discuss the idea of reopening the country?

By Steve Viars Indiana’s governor, Gov. Eric Holcomb, along with his assembled team of medical and business professionals, has the gigantic task of leading our …

This is a time of great uncertainty, but it is also a time for reflection on First Things, on Prime Principles. On what is certain. On Truth.

We’re all in over our heads right now. These are hard times. But the hard times are the best times to become who God made us to be.

Just as biblical love is an action (not a feeling) so is biblical forgiveness. Stop looking at your emotions as a barometer and start looking unto Jesus.

Like the early church, we must boldly step into the challenge of caring for the vulnerable and sick. We must point them to the only One Who can deliver us.

Mike and David discuss Christian living and church ministry in an age of Coronavirus lockdown.

Observing the Lord’s Table remotely might not be the best idea.

What does the Coronavirus lock-down mean for our Baptist understanding of church polity?

Four suggestions for using this extraordinary time as an opportunity for spiritual renewal.

“Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Ps. 119:11).

The “iron sharpening iron” process that Proverbs 27:17 provides is a helpful and maybe even convicting part of a believer’s life.

We have good reason to take the virus seriously. But we also have good reason to trust God, live courageously, and love others.

What are you worried about? Try this three-step approach from Philippians 4:6–7.

Jesus sang praises to God. We should follow His example.

Four reasons Christians should sincerely care about the current COVID-19 crisis.

Today the church is facing several incoming threats about which we cannot afford to say, “Don’t worry about it.”

The idea that shame has no place at all in the life of the believer says too much.

God calls us to live actively in confident faith and hope, not fear. Like our Biblical forerunners, He asks us to trust in the fact that He is already present in the places that are new and untested for us.

Let’s commit ourselves to work together for God’s glory in 2020 to make disciples in healthy local churches.

In this episode, we consider the historical identity of the Magi and offer some reflections on the account of their visit to the Christ-child in Matthew 2.

December can be one of the busiest and most hectic times of the year for church pastors and leaders. With that in mind, Regular Baptist Ministries has provided a checklist that churches can use to make sure that certain tasks, especially those that have IRS deadlines, are completed in time.

This Thanksgiving Day, as we sit down with our family and friends and stare at that turkey with the trimmings, perhaps we should remind ourselves to be better thankers and better givers.

This episode features a panel discussion on pastoral recruitment and the call to ministry.

News of Kanye West’s reported conversion to Christianity is sparking social media and the Christian blogosphere. What are we to make of this? How should we respond?

Mike discusses marriage in ministry with John and Daria Greening.

Self-care in its proper place is good, but that road can be slippery. We are not our own; we are Christ’s.

David and Mike discuss the proposed updated purpose statement and how it better answers the question, “What is our purpose and our mission?”

God is a good Father. He loves to give good gifts. At the cross, the most significant suffering in history collided with the greatest gift anyone could ever offer.

Five reasons to invest in both your local and state fellowship.

It is God’s business to turn people who are not good into people are who are. Justification declares us to be righteous based on the righteousness of another, so we are “good” in the estimation of God as He sees us in Christ.

By Kevin Carson Some questions that readers ask are harder to answer than others. This is a very hard question. Whenever someone asks this question, …

Pastoral ministry can be a lonely place. But it doesn’t have to be. Years ago it was common for seminary professors to caution aspiring pastors about having close friendships.

Do you find yourself in a cyclical battle with sin? Next time you sin, stop yourself, and walk yourself through James 4:1–4.

A little over 13 months ago Christina and I unpacked our belongings and began settling into the northwest suburbs of Chicago. We also began a …

Mike and David discuss signs and wonders, spiritual gifts, and Biblical sufficiency.

It is true that people are lost and dying, and that we should be urgent about pursuing the lost, but skipping seminary in order to rush into ministry would be like performing a surgery without any schooling.

Let’s not forget while hearing the heartbreaking accounts of spiritually shipwrecked Christians that there are multitudes of faithful Christian brethren all around the world still persevering in their faith and staying true to the gospel, sometimes even under intense persecution.

Pat Nemmers and Chuck De Cleene discuss the importance of intentional evangelism.

Three common fears will eventually lead a church down the road to closure instead of revitalization.

While it is true that believers may struggle with sins, those sins should no longer define the believer: we must cease being what we were and become what we are.

David Gunn and Andy Woods discuss the coming Kingdom and its relationship to the Church.

A Critical Review of Andy Stanley’s “Irresistible: Reclaiming the New that Jesus Unleashed for the World.”

The Lord is my Shepherd. He restores my soul.

Mike Hess and Mark Vroegop discuss pastoral ministry, worship, and lament.

By Bob Stevenson Tomorrow, we celebrate good Friday. In our church, we gather to read the passion narrative and reflect on the event of the …

In the spiritual gift lists in the New Testament, some gifts were miraculously endowed and immediately exercised and some were non-miraculously, naturally inherited and used.

by Dave Cunningham Those of us who stand for the truth of God’s Word and vote with the Bible in our back pocket have been …

Unplanned is a film you need to see. It will change your perspective. It is not entertaining, but it does show in compelling fashion both what abortion is and how by God’s grace we can see change in those who administer and advocate its practice in our day.

David and Mike discuss the issues of ecclesiastical separation and secondary separation.

Many Christians know that Jesus said that we should have the faith of a child. But what does Jesus mean by this comparison?

On March 15 the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals reversed the district court decision and found that a housing allowance for church clergy does not violate the Constitution’s establishment clause.

Jon Jenks joins us to discuss the essence and nature of Biblical worship.

The Miracles of Jesus Christ John the Baptist (who did no miracle) was the new voice for God to Israel after the four sterile centuries …

Should Baptists celebrate Lent? Mike and David discuss this question by examining the history of Lent, New Testament teachings on food, fasting, and spirituality, and the sacramental context in which Lenten observance usually occurs.

The era of the Gospels began with the gigantic miracle of the virgin conception and birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the entrance of God in the flesh into the temporal order. This era closed with the most colossal miracle of all human history—the bodily resurrection of Jesus from the dead.

We often rehearse how we are saved by faith, but God has also called us to live by faith.

Mike Hess discusses challenges facing the Church today and the importance of sound hermeneutics.

By Kyle Dunham How important is biblical creation for one’s theology? Self-professed evangelicals increasingly say, “Very little.” A surprising number of theologians downplay its importance. …

By Nick Harsh Sunday morning. For some families, these two simple words call to mind a morning filled with chaos. For others, however, Sunday mornings …

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By Rolland McCune On occasion through the years one reads or hears of a great revival somewhere in the world, a sudden outburst of the …

The Baptist Bulletin podcast will debut next week! Join hosts Mike Hess (GARBC National Representative) and David Gunn (RBP Director) for discussions on theology, ministry, …

By Rob Green Years ago, I heard the phrase “perception determines reality.” I remember being confused. Reality is not dependent on one’s perception, I reasoned. …

Tax reform law that went into effect in 2018 includes a requirement for churches and nonprofits to pay tax on the cost of parking space used primarily by employees. Churches can take some easy steps to make certain that they remain in compliance.

Witnessing a son or daughter charging hastily into destruction is a burden so heavy even the most resolute parents despair of bearing it. But there is always hope in Christ.

By Bernie Augsburger Have you ever wondered how the Pilgrims could have a thanksgiving celebration after going through the most difficult year of their lives? …

When a high-profile minister like Bill Hybels falls from grace, it provokes us to ask, What are some important lessons can we learn from this?

By Sam Horn There are certain cultural influences and age specific tendencies that can be observed in each generation. These “generational habits” are not always …

A recent court decision declaring the Minister’s Housing Allowance unconstitutional is being appealed. However, your church and your pastor as an individual should consider what to do if he loses his housing allowance.

By Kyle Dunham This year marks the 70th anniversary of the inception of the modern state of Israel. On May 14, 1948, David Ben-Gurion announced …

By Diane Scallon For those of you who have smartphones, please take a moment to check the battery status of your phone. In the battery …

by Jeff Burr The Incarnation is a revolutionary doctrine. Humanity was alienated from God because of its sin. Jesus, the eternal Son of God and …

By Rebekah Anderson In 280 days, I get to marry my best friend—the man I admire more than anyone else in the world. And some …

The Lord is lord of all. Whether rain or snow, cold or heat, wind or stagnant air, hurricane or calm, the Lord is the one who continues to uphold all of creation by His mighty power.

We begin a new school year with many concerns, apprehensions, and hopes. What better way to begin this school year than to begin in prayer?

The average church’s retention rate of unchurched first-time visitors is less than 3 percent. How can churches help visitors become regular attenders?

Regeneration is not a cooperative effort between God and man. God initiates the new birth by reaching down to us in love, mercy, and grace and lifting us from our lifeless condition. We do not meet Him halfway.

Is it possible to “redeem queer culture” while remaining true to Biblical standards and terminology? The Revoice Conference thinks so, but it is a difficult concept to square with the Bible’s teaching on sin and redemption.

Why should you show up at church on a Sunday morning? Ever wonder that? Here are four reasons to attend church.

There are four lessons to be learned from current events surrounding pastors. Those in ministry need to pay attention and be warned.

“I was wrong. Will you forgive me?” Seven words and two sentences that will change your life and your relationships for the better.

Mothers are not generally regarded as warriors. However, the Bible describes some mothers who fought in a hand-to-hand combat for their children.

The crowd who welcomed Jesus into Jerusalem may have been fans of Jesus, but they certainly weren’t followers of Jesus.

Jesus is serious about His disciples working while He is away. Why do you think that you will be more fervent about serving Him tomorrow if you are unwilling to serve Him today?

Because we don’t know when Jesus will return, we must always be ready. To be ready is to be faithfully working for Christ. There is no time for casualness or time-wasting. The Master is coming. We must be working.

Logic is not what drove many to the pro-choice position, and it will be unlikely in itself to move them away from it.

How we communicate matters. When it comes to communication, there are clear benefits of having in-person conversations over emailing and texting.

Have you ever squandered a clear opportunity to testify about Jesus? The fear of man is strong. But we can consider ourselves in light of Who God is and fear Him most of all.

Whether spontaneously uttered, purposefully remembered, or extensively prepared, our gratefulness to God for Who He is and what He has done for us should be expressed regularly.

John Wycliffe’s passion for Scripture would be his distinctive legacy.

How should the church engage culture? It’s an important question because the culture is at war, and we’d better know where we stand when the roar reaches its fever pitch.

In these times of racial and political discord and division, how should the church respond? What can pastors do to lead their people with Biblical conviction to be on mission with Jesus and make a difference?

When you hear the word “God,” money is probably not your first thought. However, if we’re not careful, money can quickly take the place of God in your life.

The past two weeks have seen amazing events taking place in Jerusalem on the Temple Mount. These events may well be a precursor to the fulfillment of important prophecies relating to the end times.

What does it mean to be spiritually free? It speaks of a status that is not true of everyone in this world.

The change in theological education represents a fundamental shift in both educational philosophy and religious pedagogy, is already having great effect on pulpits and pews.

Changes in either the church or higher education are quickly mimicked and often magnified in seminaries, and the speed at which these parties are changing is a relatively new phenomenon.

Many Christians obsess over making Christianity relevant. But why should Christianity be made relevant, and what would a relevant Christianity look like?

Within quite a few supposedly evangelical churches, we are witnessing the adoption of Catholic and Orthodox aesthetics and liturgical practices even where official allegiance to Catholicism or Orthodoxy is not claimed.

This Easter we are reminded once again that Jesus did not stay in the tomb but is fully alive. And our lives right now are worth the living just because He lives.

The Case for Christ is solid apologetics shared through the heartfelt and compelling story of Lee and Leslie Strobel.

A significant portion of our society, including a large number of professing believers, experience a disconnect when the terms “liberty” and “responsibility” are used together.

God brings trials of various kinds into all our lives, and we are not to be surprised by this.

A pastor shares his thoughts on the tragic double murder of a family in Illinois.

Church membership actually matters and is not only biblical, but practical and pastoral.

Moses took radical action against sin. He understood that sin leads to destruction and death, and he didn’t mess around.

As followers of the living God, we have an obligation to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves, and to stand for life.

Any putative gospel that denies justification through faith alone is a false gospel, whatever other elements of truth it may contain.

What is a healthy church? A healthy church is one that maintains its first love.

The real meaning of Christmas is a message of hope flooding a darkened world with marvelous light, healing old wounds, reviving broken dreams, and setting the captives free.

Sunday Christmases bring dilemmas. Christmas is a special day, steeped in family traditions, and we’re not all that accustomed to spending time at church on Christmas Day.

Sometimes the water we are trying to navigate gets a little shallow, doesn’t it? This is the precise time we need to sail into God’s channel of peace.

When we reflect each December day on the gift of God’s Son, we gain a renewed appreciation for the true meaning of the season and we prepare our hearts to celebrate His birth on Christmas Day.

If you are overly joyful or overly disappointed following Tuesday’s election, you have probably put too much stock in a human leader.

The Gospel of Luke gives us a wonderful window into how Jesus changed the world in three short years. Luke shows that prayer played a vital role.

The gospel of Jesus Christ is the only hope for humanity’s real problem.

Hostility toward the gospel is nothing new, and our response to it has already been scripted for us and modeled by generation after generation of gospel-servants who have suffered likewise.

We live in a time of unique opportunity when it comes to sharing our faith. But there are other factors that make this a challenging time for evangelism.

The fall of mega-church pastor Perry Noble has stunned the evangelical world and has raised the alcohol issue to the forefront of evangelical discussion yet again.

“I do all things for the sake of the gospel.” So said Paul in 1 Corinthians 9:23. I wonder whether this verse can sustain all the freight that has been loaded onto it over the years.

One of the more frequent retorts that is thrown at Christians is that we are not to judge. Unfortunately, some Christians have picked up on this and are propagating it too.

The recent savage shooting in Orlando has left the nation reeling, stunned by the awful display of cruelty and barbarism. It is fitting and proper, at a time such as this, to “weep with those who weep.”

GARBC National Representative John Greening responds to the allegations regarding Robert T. Ketcham published in “The ABWE and Donn Ketcham Investigations Final Report.”

GARBC National Representative John Greening responds to the recent publication titled, “The ABWE and Donn Ketcham Investigations Final Report.”

A letter to the editor introduces the evangelical as “America’s newest celebrity,” who increasingly is the lead story, the headline, and the main attraction.

Every philosophy rests on certain pillars—certain foundation stones. The gospel is Christianity’s foundation.

Can you imagine the roller coaster of emotions that took the followers of Jesus on a wild ride during His last week?

The death of Christ was not the mere actions of the frenzied mood of misled Jews. Christ’s death was part of God’s purposeful plan.

This morning, terrorists struck the heart of Belgium. Why the cycle of hate and aggression? There are no simple, one-size-fits-all answers. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t any answers at all.

Risen is a well-made film that may give opportunity for many gospel-centered conversations to happen among believers and unbelieving friends.

Controversy over Islam is increasing both within American religion and among American political candidates. How are Christians, and especially Baptists, supposed to think about Muslims?

In the debate concerning evolution and the age of the earth, certain arguments I grow tired of hearing. We spend so much time dealing with silly ideas that we cannot move on to the real meat of the issues.

On Dec. 3 the New York Daily News published the headline “God Isn’t Fixing This” in response to the outpouring of prayer support for the victims of the San Bernardino shootings. So how should we think about this from a Biblically informed worldview?

On Nov. 27, a gunman opened fire outside of a Planned Parenthood facility. We need to begin wrapping our minds around what happened and relating it to our walk with Christ in the world.

On the evening of Nov. 13, Islamic terrorists struck at the heart of France. The attacks were as well-orchestrated as they were devastating: armed to …

The Wall Street Journal recently published an article entitled, “How Churches Are Rethinking Sunday School.” The author, Melanie Grayce West, documents how several New York City churches are rethinking …

What does it mean to be male or female? What does the Bible and general human reasoning say about this?

With the recent Hollywood success of War Room as a #1 movie, I see no reason why Woodlawn will not be a huge hit too. The main character, Hank Erwin Jr., is played by Sean Astin, who is best known from his role as Samwise Gamgee in The Lord of the Rings. Moviegoers will also know him as Rudy in the movie by the same name. Woodlawn has a wonderful storyline with compelling subplots and superb acting.

October is Pastor Appreciation Month. I have received multiple calls asking about the tax treatment of pastor appreciation gifts. I attempt to simplify things as much as possible, even when something has layers of complexity. So if your situation is beyond the following simple, straightforward explanations, always ask more questions.

The scientific community is abuzz this week with the announcement that liquid water has been confirmed on Mars. Of course scientists have long known that water is abundant in our universe (including on Mars), but specific evidence of a stable supply of liquid water has been lacking.

Every pastor has church growth–both spiritual and numerical–on his mind. Pastor Jeriah Shank examines four common elements of churches that experience healthy growth.

A few months ago, my wife and I were privileged to attend a preview screening of War Room, the latest movie produced by the Kendrick brothers (Courageous, Fireproof, & Facing the Giants are some of their other works). The movie opens Friday, August 28th, and I urge you to attend a showing in your community to support the movie.

“These creationists are inadvertently and blindly trusting man’s fallible dating methods for archaeological data.” So says Ken Ham of Answers in Genesis. Who are these blind individuals who have so readily capitulated to modernist scientific categories?

An axiom of the Christian life is, Those who are truly saved will suffer. Living in the here and now means some degree of struggle.

Recently released videos by The Center for Medical Progress have brought to light some of the more egregious atrocities committed by Planned Parenthood in the name of women’s health and medical research.

It was a cold, dark night in Bethlehem when the soldiers came. Methodically and without the slightest trace of pity they marched from house to house ransacking each one.

November 30, 1938. Surrounded by a throng of his fellow countrymen, a triumphant Neville Chamberlain held aloft a historic peace agreement.

By Bernie Augsburger “Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your …

2015 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Same-Sex Marriage.

2015 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Our Connection to Christ.

2015 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Discipleship.

With the Supreme Court’s legalization of same-sex marriage nationwide, supporters of traditional marriage can’t help feeling as though they’ve been punched in the solar plexus.

The greatest danger facing the believer is not future persecution but daily love seduction from the world system.

Governments can use the powerful apparatus of civil censure to force people to behave as if a relationship between two people of the same sex were a marriage. But it is not and it never will be.

When reading books or hearing sermons on parables, you may well encounter some interesting commentary. Too often people approach the Bible’s parables as if they were true accounts.

At least theoretically, we are living in a culture governed by moral relativism. The old codes of right and wrong are no longer seen by the general populace to apply.

The relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility (or free moral agency) has long been a fixation for me.

Lent is upon us! For the next 40 days, millions of professing Christians the world over will celebrate this ancient tradition.

By adopting their son, two parents found that they were imitating the glorious actions of our God and Savior, Who marvelously saved us, washed us, rescued us, and adopted us into His family.

The controversy surrounding The Interview is full of mystery and drama. It’s a drama that we can’t just stand by and watch, but should evaluate carefully from a Christian worldview.

Seventeen people died in the terrorist attacks in Paris last Wednesday. How will this affect our ministries in France?

Over the past week, the world has been transfixed on the slaughter of innocents in Paris by Islamic terrorists determined to exact revenge on those who insult their prophet, Muhammad.

With the recent terrorist attacks in Paris, the subject of radical Islam has been catapulted into a position of media prominence. This has brought, in …

2006 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, The Integrity of the Biblical Canon.

2006 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Biblical Preaching and Teaching.

There is no satisfaction on earth as great as that which comes when you get out of your chair and go do something in Christ’s name.

Have you ever wondered how the main characters surrounding the birth of Jesus would tell their version of the Christmas story?

2005 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Preterism and the Future, Physical Fulfillment of Biblical Prophecies.

Is Sunday School still relevant in churches today?

What does Christ teach us about suffering? How does He help us?

2005 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Justification and the New Perspectives on Paul.

2004 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, The Bible and Our Culture

Some pro-choice advocates agree that life begins at conception, but remain pro-choice.

Thoughts on dignity, suicide, and the sanctity of life in the wake of Brittany Maynard’s death.

2004 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Same-Sex Marriage.

Three reasons why fellowshipping with a church association is beneficial.

Clarifying what is and isn’t at stake in the Houston subpoena issue.

A Biblical, pastoral response to our sexually charged culture.

2003 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Christ’s Leadership.

Organizations often choose names that advertise their purpose or emphasis. The Federal Aviation Administration regulates aviation. The American Automobile Association helps drivers of automobiles. Alcoholics Anonymous is devoted to alcoholics—and anonymity. Names correlate with purposes.

I am convinced that if you trust in something or someone, you already absolutely believe that something or someone is worthy of your trust. Furthermore, your actions will reveal whether or not you truly believe in the object of that trust.

2002 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Reaction to the Terrorist Attacks of September 11, 2001.

2002 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Our Roots.

2002 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Child Protection.

2001 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Challenge for Partnering.

Examining the possible dangers that can flow from idolizing celebrity pastors.

2000 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Joint Resolution–GARBC  & Fundamental Baptist Fellowship Association (FBFA)

In the midst of many rather serious world events being covered in the news media, something that happened in an NFL preseason contest caused a bit of a stir.

2000 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Tolerance.

Biblical perspectives on suicide, stardom, and substance abuse in the wake of Robin Williams’ tragic death.

1999 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, The GARBC in a Postmodern Era.

What should Christians think about the Israel-Hamas conflict? This post brings historical and theological perspectives to bear on the controversial topic.

1998 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, The Gift of Salvation.

An Iraqi-born Baptist missionary takes a critical look at the treatment of women in Islam and its theological rationale.

1998 GARBC Annual Conference resolution, passed by voting messengers, Integrity and Leadership.

Q. Please comment on the practice in many churches of dedicating infants and children in a church service ceremony. Is there a Biblical basis for …

One of the best things I’ve seen over the past several years in the world of sports took place on Sunday in Oakland. In silent protest to the remarks of Clippers’ owner Donald Sterling, the team walked onto the court, gathered at its center, and removed their team warm-ups to reveal inside-out undershirts.

Current events often have major impact on the ministries of friends and colleagues around the world. Missionary Scott Carter with ABWE in Ukraine writes his perspective on Acts 8:1–4 in light of the political happenings in that country.

Q. Lately some friends have begun attending a church that doesn’t have membership; a person who simply attends is considered a member. Is this right?

A. In the last few decades an increasing number of churches have gone this route, particularly so-called megachurches. The Bible doesn’t specifically use the word member concerning local churches, and I am not going to judge those churches that do not have what we might call formal membership. However, I believe a positive, Biblically harmonious case can be made for it.

Q. Two verses, 1 Samuel 16:7 and 16:12, seem to contradict each other. Please explain.

A. Samuel was to anoint a new king to take the place of wicked King Saul. God instructed Samuel to go to Jesse the Bethlehemite to find a king among his sons. Verse 7 says that the Lord warned Samuel not to evaluate the sons by their looks, “for the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” After God indicated that the sons, one by one, were not whom He had in mind, verse 12 says that there was one son left, “so he sent and brought him [David] in. Now he was ruddy, with bright eyes, and good looking. And the Lord said, ‘Arise, anoint him; for this is the one!’”

Money matters matter—even at church, because as church leaders we have a God-given responsibility on behalf of God’s people to direct the financial affairs of …

Joel C. Rosenberg Tyndale House, 388 Pages, Hardcover: $26.99, Paper: $15.99, eBook: $15.99 A truly challenging reading as Americans celebrate the country’s independence, this book …

Whit Woodard Faithful Life Publishers, 182 Pages, Paper: $14.99, Kindle: $2.99; Nook: $2.99 Woodard, a Regular Baptist chaplain, gives insight concerning the chaplaincy, emphasizing the …

Ron Rhodes Harvest House, 298 Pages, Paper: $13.99 Here’s a unique way to study the last book of the Bible. Each day contains a Scripture …

Paul W. Chappell Striving Together, 160 Pages, Hardcover: $14.95, Kindle: $7.95 Written in allegory form, the book “will not eliminate your burdens but will show …

Q. Occasionally I hear preachers and others telling us to “pray for the peace of Jerusalem.” How can this be right or even possible in …

The task of a pastoral search committee in a church isn’t what it used to be. It was never easy, but it seems to be …

President Barack Obama on Thursday praised the Supreme Court’s ruling on same-sex marriage as a “victory for American democracy” but clashed with his African host …

A petition urging the Obama administration to ban the teaching of creation and intelligent design in U.S. schools was recently filed on the White House …

World News June 21: A substitute teacher believes he was fired because he’s a member of an international religious organization that distributes Bibles. Read more about this and other news.

World News June 18: The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals has issued an order that the Department of Justice must respond to a rehearing request regarding the legal status of a German homeschooling family. Read more about this and other news.

World News June 14: Southern Baptists expressed their “opposition to and disappointment in” the membership policy of the Boy Scouts of America. Read more about this and other news.

World News June 11: Two prominent civil rights groups have filed a lawsuit against the National Security Agency. Read more about this and other news.

World News June 7: The number of churches that were dismissed from Presbyterian Church (USA) last year has increased by fivefold compared to 2011. Read more about this and other news.

World News June 4: Southern Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers are active in seven states responding to damage from floods, tornadoes, and other disasters on the eve of hurricane season. Read more about this and other news.

World News May 31: Most voters don’t approve of the U.S. Justice Department’s investigation of news reporters. Read more about this and other news.

World News May 28: People concerned about the Boy Scouts’ membership policy are seeking alternative groups to join. Read more about this and other news.

World News May 24: Oklahoma Baptist disaster relief workers were in action immediately after the tornado hit. Read more about this and other news.

Voyle A. Glover Kregel Books, $12.99 “Good intentions alone will not stop the physical, emotional, financial, and spiritual damage resulting from just one incident of …

Kenneth Bickel and Kevin Vanderground BMH Books, $15.99 “When ministry leaders grievously fail, the ripple effects often extend well beyond what any one person can …

Q: I have a question about the belief some have that each Christian has a personal guardian angel that watches over and protects us through …

Q. Please comment on Psalm 2:12, which mentions “kissing the Son.” A. The phrase “kiss the Son” is figurative language, referring to the actual practice …

Most church leaders are happy to see guests visit on Sunday. Sometimes they come as a result of a personal invitation. At other times, a …

World News May 21: The U.S. Supreme Court agreed Monday to take up a case involving a New York town’s policy regarding prayers presented before public meetings. Read more about this and other news.

Mary Amesbury, comp. Baptist Mid-Missions, 356 Pages, Paper, $10.00+shipping/ handling This compilation of “faith-building” testimonies of Baptist Mid-Missions missionaries will stir your soul. Particularly eye-catching …

Dwight Gustafson Journey Forth, 72 Pages, Paper, $9.00 The author is a beloved former dean of the School of Fine Arts at Bob Jones University …

William L. Lumpkin; Bill J. Leonard, ed. Judson Press, 548 Pages, Hardcover, $36.99 Here is a comprehensive resource on the various Baptist confessions of faith, …

Jonathan Bernis Chosen Books, 234 Pages, Paper, $15.99 A messianic believer, who is president of Jewish Voice Ministries, offers perspective on Bible prophecy as it …

Bradley G. Green, ed. IVP, 398 Pages, Paper, $24.00 You’ve probably heard the church fathers’ names—Irenaeus, Tertullian, Origen, Athanasius, Augustine, and others—and regardless of your …

World News May 17: The IRS will soon face more than controversy and Congressional hearings over its discrimination of pro-life and conservative groups. Read more about this and other news.

World News May 14: An IRS campaign to apply additional scrutiny to conservative groups included those focused on government spending, the Constitution, and several other broad areas. Read more about this and other news.

World News May 10: A House committee has launched an investigation in response to the trial of the abortion practitioner charged with multiple counts of infanticide. Read more about this and other news.

World News May 7: In a huge victory for pro-life advocates taking on the controversial HHS mandate, the Obama administration is giving up its effort to force a Bible publisher to obey it. Read more about this and other news.

Jonathan Cahn FrontLine, 262 Pages, Paper, $16.99 This book is taking born-again Christians by storm, and has been on bestseller lists such as the New …

Warren W. Wiersbe CLC Publications, 116 Pages, Paper, $8.50 This powerful new book from a prolific pen demonstrates how far off the track many churches …

C. H. Spurgeon Banner of Truth Trust, 316 Pages, Hardcover, $28.00 Many of us have been blessed by published sermons and commentaries from the “prince …

Jim Geyer Ambassador International, 192 Pages, Paper, $12.99 A pastor shares insights he received from two blessings in life—having godly parents and being raised on …

Banner of Truth Trust, 123 Pages, Softcover, $14.00 A letter came to Baptist churches in England and Wales asking them to send representatives to a …

World News May 3: A California megachurch pastor who has recently come under fire for his views on homosexuality has declared that he will not be intimidated. Read more about this and other news.

World News April 30: President Obama addressed the nation’s largest abortion provider Friday, criticizing pro-life laws. Read more about this and other news.

World News April 26: Southern Baptist chaplains report that an SBC website has been blocked at military installations around the nation. Read more about this and other news.

World News April 23: Congress is now far more aware of the Kermit Gosnell story, the abortionist on trial for murder in Philadelphia. Read more about this and other news.

World News April 19: Well-known gospel soloist George Beverly Shea, 104, died Tuesday evening following a brief illness. Read more about this and other news.

World News April 16: An idea for a national day of prayer and fasting, which began in a column just several days ago, has now become a national movement. Read more about this and other news.

World News April 12: A Michigan high school canceled a speech by former Sen. Rick Santorum after teachers became outraged over his opposition to gay marriage. Read more about this and other news.

World News April 9: Soldiers in the U.S. military have been told in a training briefing that evangelical Christians are the No. 1 extremist threat to America. Read more about this and other news.

World News April 5: A portrait of Jesus that had adorned a southern Ohio public school district building since 1947 has been taken down. Read more about this and other news.

World News April 2: Edith Schaeffer, 98, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 30. Read more about this and other news.

World News March 29: Florida Gov. Rick Scott has stepped into the fray concerning a professor who told students to write the word “Jesus” on a piece of paper, throw it on the floor, and stomp on it. Read more about this and other news.

World News March 26: Pastor Saeed Abedini, a U.S. citizen of Iranian descent imprisoned in Tehran, tells of the torture he has endured for his faith as well as the joy that comes with forgiving his perpetrators. Read more about this and other news.

World News March 22: Redefining marriage to include same-sex couples would jettison the rationale and logic behind prohibitions on polygamous marriages, according to several friend-of-the court briefs. Read more about this and other news.

World News March 19: The island nation of Cyprus made headlines, and rattled markets across the Western world, by announcing a raid on private bank accounts this week. Read more about this and other news.

World News March 15: The archbishop of Buenos Aires, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, has been selected as the next Roman Catholic pope. Read more about this and other news.

World News March 12: Leaders at this past week’s National Religious Broadcasters conference warned that Christians may soon be forced to practice civil disobedience. Read more about this and other news.

World News March 8: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s unmanned Predator B drone fleet has been custom designed to identify civilians carrying guns and track cell phone signals. Read more about this and other news.

Q: Is it wrong to invest time in genealogies, family trees, etc.? I refer to Titus 3:9. A: Titus 3:9 reads, “But avoid foolish disputes, …

Q: In reading the book of Daniel, I came across something that appears to be contradictory. Daniel 12:11 says 1,290 days, while my understanding from …

Here’s what I’ve discovered about leadership development: some of the best leaders I’ve worked with as a pastor had their start as workers. They didn’t …

World News March 5: The Department of Justice is saying that children do not need—and have no right to—mothers. Read more about this and other news.

World News March 1: John Freshwater got a day in court as his latest attempt to get reinstated as a schoolteacher was presented in oral arguments before the Ohio Supreme Court. Read more about this and other news.

World News Feb. 26: Tim Tebow has backed out of speaking at First Baptist Church of Dallas, saying he “needed to lay low and steer clear of controversy.” Read more about this and other news.

World News Feb. 22: Sen. Marco Rubio met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Shimon Peres in Jerusalem on Wednesday evening. Read more about this and other news.

World News Feb. 19: China’s Christians felt a noticeable rise in persecution in 2012 as the Communist government began the first of a three-phase plan to eradicate unregistered house churches. Read more about this and other news.

World News Feb. 15: For a German family that fled to the U.S., the Justice Department is arguing that educating one’s own children is not a fundamental right. Read more about this and other news.

World News Feb. 12: Pope Benedict stunned the Roman Catholic Church on Monday when he announced he would stand down, the first pope to do so in 700 years. Read more about this and other news.

World News Feb. 8: The Department of Justice has developed a white paper outlining the circumstances under which the U.S. can conduct a drone strike against an American citizen. Read more about this and other news.

World News Feb. 5: The National Black Prolife Coalition has lobbied to have its Twitter account restored after the social media company yanked the group’s Tweeting privileges. Read more about this and other news.

World News Feb. 1: Frank S. Page issued comments on the current focus on the Boy Scouts of America. Read more about this and other news.

World News Jan. 29: The Boy Scouts of America is reportedly on the verge of changing its policy on homosexuals. Read more about this and other news.

World News Jan. 25: The head of a Messianic Jewish ministry says it’s too early to know just what kind of government might emerge from Tuesday’s surprise election results in Israel. Read more about this and other news.

World News Jan. 22: Open Doors has confirmed the death of two Christians in North Korea. Read more about this and other news.

World News Jan. 18: The Alabama Supreme Court has ruled that “unborn children are persons with rights that should be protected by law.” Read more about this and other news.

World News Jan. 15: A public school teacher has filed a civil rights lawsuit after she was forced to remove all religious content from her classroom. Read more about this and other news.

DVD Vision Video, 105 Minutes, $16.99 Like it or not, Regular Baptists must recognize that Chuck Smith has had a profound effect on evangelical and …

Albert Mohler Bethany House, 222 Pages, Hardcover, $22.99 Albert Mohler is one of those writers whose familiar name compels the reader to take notice, no …

John MacArthur Thomas Nelson, 328 Pages, Hardcover, $29.99 A reader might wonder what could be said about evangelism that would differ from what numerous other …

Elmer Towns and Ben Gutierrez, eds. B&H, 368 Pages, Hardcover, $39.99 Here is a very attractive, nicely laid-out book with more than 150 full-color photos, …

Dave Barba Journey Forth, 132 Pages, Paper, $13.00 This book gives hope and practical, Biblical help for those in ministry who are discouraged, lonely, financially …

World News Jan. 11: A pastor’s withdrawal from President Barack Obama’s inauguration ceremony has left Christians lamenting over what they see as a new era of religious intolerance. Read more about this and other world news.

World News Jan. 8: A report in WorldNetDaily notes that Barack Obama’s criticism of congressional efforts to protect the faith-based values of military chaplains is disturbing on many levels. Read more about this and other world news.

World News Jan. 4: Tens of thousands of Americans have committed to support Hobby Lobby on Jan. 5 after courts have refused to issue a ruling stopping the HHS mandate. Read more about this and other news.

The local church, by God’s design, has the responsibility of fostering spiritual growth. All that we do in worship, fellowship, service, and Bible study ought …

Q: What does “born of water” in John 3:5 mean? A: Several views exist. Some believe it refers to water baptism, meaning that a person …

Q: We’re convinced Jesus never married, contrary to what some attention-getting liberals have advanced lately, but what about His disciples? And if any of them …

World News Jan. 1: Hobby Lobby will defy the Obamacare mandate that health insurance for its employees cover “abortion-inducing drugs.” Read more about this and other news.

World News Dec. 28: It was a bad Christmas for Pastor Yousef Nadarkhani, the Church of Iran pastor who has been returned to jail on an earlier charge. Read more about this and other news.

World News Dec. 21: A federal appeals court sided with two colleges in a decision related to the ongoing court challenges to the Obama administration’s birth control mandate. Read more about this and other news.

Ron Rhodes Harvest House, 340 Pages, Paper, $17.99 Another book that would greatly help believers grow in their knowledge of the Word, particularly in eschatology, …