connecting at the heart levelA brother ... whose parishioners are "older and nice" ... has been teaching in Romans, and wonders how much of it is sinking into his congregation's minds. A church elder ... keeps reminding him that "we must do our part to stay saved."
when church leaves you dryA gracEmail subscriber in the Bible Belt writes that the church with which he is affiliated is "very traditional and stagnant." He wants to be "free" -- but he is also "concerned about God's authority and abiding in it." He asks, "Can you give me any advice?"
church disciplineA gracEmail subscriber in Europe asks about the purpose and practice of church discipline. Is it ever proper to exclude someone from the faith community? If so, when?
gathered in Jesus' nameA gracEmail subscriber . . . asks, "What makes a gathering in Jesus' name?" And, if the Lord does not gather with our two or more, "what would be the reason for his absence, and how would we be able to know he was missing?"
home-based communityA gracEmail subscriber . . . is part of a group of believers from various denominations and nondenominations who wish to form a home-based community for Bible study, prayer, worship and outreach of various types. . . . Any suggestions or warnings?"
10 traits for Christian leaders"I want to serve God as the preacher or pastor of a local church," someone asks. "Do you have any suggestions for my personal and professional goals?"
biblical help in preacher searchA Northeastern subscriber writes, "Our pastor has retired after a lengthy tenure and we are seeking a replacement. Can you offer any biblical suggestions to help us in this process?"
scholarship and pietyA Christian worker bemoans the fact that religion professors too often do not instill faith or encourage piety . . . and that the academic study of the Bible . . . sometimes even diminishes faith and stifles spirituality. A religion professor responded, in effect, that scholarship and piety do not mix.
seminary professorsA Southern Baptist brother asks, "What do you think should be done with seminary professors who teach contrary to the seminary's doctrinal statement?"