Why do students today choose not to become a Christian? Too often the reason is related to a negative experience with someone wearing the Christian label. Sometimes it is a life event or circumstance that does not fit neatly into the world of “Jesus Loves the Little Children.” Perhaps others reject the truth about Christ because they just do not…
“Imagine writing as a purposeful craft” is the challenge of Roy Peter Clark’s introduction to Writing Tools – 50 Essential Strategies for Every Writer. The book was a gift from a dear friend with the inscription “May your writing affect many…” I enjoy writing; it is therapeutic for me, not because it comes easily but because it makes me wrestle…
I have a burden and passion for Student ministry around the world. I am privileged in my travels to connect with men and women who share that passion. Today was one of those days but it was especially rewarding because it was here in Alabama, my home state. Student ministry in Alabama is alive and well and especially in the…
This is the third and final post in the Four Erroneous Youth Ministry Philosophies series. Sections three and four represent ministry approaches based on program and personality. Youth ministries need a program as well as leadership with personality; however, both function best when founded on Biblical principles. Section Three: “All Dressed Up and Nowhere to Go – Buttoned Up and…
Okay, so you probably read the report in USA Today (Wednesday) released by the Kaiser Family Foundation. The headline on page one read “Kid’s digital day: Almost 8 hours.” It appears that the time spent with media for kids 8-18 has increased by 79 minutes in the last decade bringing it to 53 hours a week. So…what does all this…
“I’ve tried everything!” Remember those words from Part 1? If not refer back to my post on January 12. I have divided the philosophical approaches into four sections determined by their predominant thrust. In Part 2 we will examine the first two sections and will conclude next Tuesday with Part 3, so stay with me. Keep in mind that some…
What is truth and how has it been affected by postmodernism? In his book Truth & the New Kind of Christian, R. Scott Smith addresses this as well as the emerging effects of postmodernism in the church. He evaluates and confronts postmodernism both in secular society and within Christianity. I appreciated his diligence in defining terms that we often use…
“I’ve tried everything!” I frequently hear these frustrated words from well meaning people who want to make an eternal impact on the lives of students. They work hard trying various approaches but are unable to grasp the illusive key to successful ministry. Over the last thirty years, I have observed some of these valiant efforts which I call “erroneous youth…
I was stunned . . . did she realize what she was asking? How could a caring, loving person be so cruel? I don’t believe I am addicted or that I really spend as much time as she thinks on my Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, FiledBy or texting communications tools…do I? Just before Christmas my wife asked me if I would…
Perhaps you remember the commercial of the rugged cowboys riding across the prairie ropes in hand. Due to historical reference you think they are herding cattle but then as the camera pans out, your senses are momentarily confused as you see thousands of . . . . . cats. I really do not remember the point of the commercial but…