Throughout the Bible – especially the New Testament – we see the characteristics of a strong spiritual leader spelled out. Paul, in particular, had a lot to say on the subject. However, when the rubber meets the road, how do church members perceive their pastor is doing when it comes to these traits? Is he … Continued
Adventists have a unique model of ministry. They use many methods – including those outside the four walls of the church – to bring new members to Adventism and win hearts for the Lord. This ministry model includes the use of publishing houses, which manufacture many types of religious publications that are instrumental in spreading … Continued
Our last few blogs (found here, here, and here) have examined different elements of growing in spiritual maturity.In addition to the Faith Maturity Index, which measures specific qualities of religious life, researchers under the direction of the General Conference Office of Archives, Statistics, and Research also surveyed members on the Intrinsic and Extrinsic religion scale as … Continued
Have you ever met someone who is really passionate about climbing mountains? If you have, then you’ll know that they are always excited to conquer the next peak, seek the next thrill, and take on the next challenge. They don’t simply climb one mountain and say, “Well, that’s enough. I’m done. I’ve climbed enough and … Continued
When you love someone, it’s hard to hide that love. We see this when a bride and groom gaze into each other’s eyes as they say their vows; when a parent snuggles their newborn baby during those first, precious days; when an older couple sits wordlessly together, simply happy holding hands. Yes, when you love … Continued
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” ( John 15:12 NIV) What does it really look like to love others as Jesus loves us? We see this important principle reiterated throughout the Bible; we are commanded to demonstrate the love of Jesus in the same way He showed it to … Continued
Many Seventh-day Adventists feel very strongly about the importance of educating our children in denominational schools; while public schools may do a fine job educating children’s minds, they often neglect a wholistic education—specifically, they neglect training children spiritually. Adventist schools, however, strive to give children a well-rounded education, with a focus on spiritual matters. One … Continued
In our last blog, we spoke about a study that examined Seventh-day Adventist young people across the United States to find ways we might encourage them to stay in the church. This time we will look at a survey that examines former or inactive Adventists around the world who have stopped attending their local church … Continued
Research on the subject of church warmth suggests that relationships are central to the “church” experience, but there appears to be a mix of conflict and lack of connection across various aspects of church life that have driven many of our church’s young people away from it. Even with a superficial understanding of the role … Continued
When you hear the word “grow,” what comes to your mind? Many people will think of something related to nature such as a garden or flowers, or maybe the way in which a tiny seed can grow into a majestic tree. Or, perhaps you think of human growth; for example, the way a baby grows … Continued
As Jesus ascended into Heaven, having wrapped up His work on earth, His final words were ones of not only comfort but also of instruction. He commanded His followers to make disciples. And extraordinarily, Jesus’ final words still impact us today. For had it not been for the early believers following His instructions, none of … Continued
A personal relationship with Jesus Christ – a relationship that is cultivated through one-on-one time with Him through Bible Study and prayer – is central to a strong faith, but there are many aspects of corporate worship and church life that also work to strengthen the individual’s commitment to God. This is due in part … Continued