Over the past few days, Kentucky Baptists and friends from across the country have rallied together to help our brothers, sisters and neighbors in the west and southwestern parts of our state. When the deadly tornados touched down in multiple locations, leaving devastation in their path, they unleashed a torrent of support that has onlyContinue reading “God’s people made for times like this”
Tag Archives: leader
5 observations from a church anniversary
This past Sunday, Connie and I had the honor of attending the 10th anniversary service of Crossroads Baptist Church in Elizabethtown. What an exciting time to see a 10-year-old church that has survived its early days, only to thrive in its current ministry. The anniversary gathering contained all the elements of a typical Kentucky BaptistContinue reading “5 observations from a church anniversary”
5 things we can learn from long-term marriages
During a recent worship service at Carter Creek Baptist Church, the pastor, Bro. Butch, recognized a couple who were celebrating their 62nd wedding anniversary. Larry and Brenda Vincent, members at Carter Creek, have spent over six decades loving, serving and caring for one another. It was what Pastor Butch said next that stuck with me.Continue reading “5 things we can learn from long-term marriages”
Thank you, Kentucky Baptists
We just completed the 184th meeting of the Kentucky Baptist Convention held in Elizabethtown, Ky. This year’s meeting included an array of Crossover evangelistic events, the “Press On” Pastors’ Conference and — of course — the Annual Meeting itself. By all accounts, it was an incredible gathering of Kentucky Baptists. It felt like a timeContinue reading “Thank you, Kentucky Baptists”
Thanksgiving habits
When my girls were small and demonstrated a bad attitude or entitlement disposition, I would punish them by making them list 10 things they were thankful for. That practice either made them more thankful or less vocal with their complaints. Either way, it was a welcome relief. The disciplined practice of giving thanks is notContinue reading “Thanksgiving habits”
Aging with grace
Last week I celebrated my 57th birthday. When I was in my early 50s, I remember having a conversation with a medical doctor that went something like this: He said, “Welcome to your 50s. There are three surprises coming your way. You will receive an invitation to join the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons).Continue reading “Aging with grace”
Listen, please
I have a weird preaching peculiarity. In fact, it has become so obvious to me that I sometimes warn congregations where I preach so they can be prepared. It’s not weird like running up and down the aisle or jumping across the backs of pews. I lack the physicality for those antics. It is neverthelessContinue reading “Listen, please”
Problems demand and deserve solutions
Four thousand churches close their doors each year. On top of that, 70% of Kentucky Baptist churches are plateaued or in decline. At least 20% of Kentucky Baptist churches did not baptize a new believer in the past twelve months. Persistent and unresolved problems are often a factor in such declining churches. The church inContinue reading “Problems demand and deserve solutions”
Appreciate your pastor
October is recognized worldwide as Pastor Appreciation Month. Some will remember Focus on the Family in the 1990s encouraging churches to show appreciation to their pastors and staff — but to do so especially during the month of October. Since that time churches have found unique ways to honor their pastor and staff. Why shouldContinue reading “Appreciate your pastor”
Taking homecomings from good to great
Many Baptist churches schedule a homecoming each year. A homecoming service can be a great opportunity for a congregation to celebrate God’s past faithfulness over the congregation, recognize the present ministry of the church and look to the future in hopes that the best days of the church are ahead. Like anything else the churchContinue reading “Taking homecomings from good to great”
Dr. Todd Gray 