“Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand” (Prov 19:21). Leaders are called to lead, but they must lead in light of the Lord’s desires. It would be a terrible situation to put much energy and effort […]
Pastoral Training
I started this “Apostolic Imagination: Re-Thinking Missions” series earlier this year. I am presently writing a book with Baker Academic titled Apostolic Imagination: Rethinking Contemporary Missions, and wanted to share some of my thoughts with you before its publication. Context is king. In case you missed the previous posts, I’ll […]
Apostolic Imagination: Rethinking Location
I launched Strike the Match on March 12, 2015 (“Who was St. Patrick with Ed Smither”). Season 4 concluded last week. I have enjoyed these four seasons of 64 episodes. Thank you for listening and sharing. You are in 139 countries, with the U. S., Japan, U. K., India, and […]
Strike the Match Turns Four
One thing I have learned after 19 years of pastoral ministry is that pastors believe their counsel is good for all of life’s big decisions/experiences, except one. Someone wants to make the big decision to follow Jesus, we’re there. Someone wants to make the big decision to get married, we’re […]
Pastoral Care is Good for Life’s Big Decisions, Except for ...
What time is it? It is time for season 4 of Strike the Match! After 50 episodes, I kick off this season by addressing my recent transition to Samford University. Earlier this summer, I announced this move on the blog. However, I thought it would be good to provide an […]
Season 4 Strike the Match Begins Right Here, Right Now
Lord willing, May 16, I will be doing a webinar with Matthew Ellison and the good folks of Sixteen:Fifteen on developing an apostolic imagination. We are hoping this event will be a blessing to you and your ministry. Evangelicals have been discussing unreached people groups for over 40 years. Much […]