Tag Archives: Materialism

Prosperity: It’s Another Gospel

In a recent sermon series on 1 Peter, I commented that I believe prosperity theology (a.k.a. “health and wealth”, “name it and claim it”, “word of faith”, etc.) is one of the greatest opponents of true Christianity in the world … Continue reading

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How will you spend Black Friday?

Black Friday is coming.  It is only a little over two days away (less for those who choose to get in line early enough for the best deals).  If you are wondering, Black Friday is the Friday after Thanksgiving.  It is … Continue reading

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Before you throw it away, give it away.

My wife and I are in the midst of packing up to move from California to Ohio.  Yes, Ohio.  Luckily, we will be there just in time for winter! As we have been boxing things up, we have realized that … Continue reading

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Do we know how to abound?

I have been carrying around the following quote in my Bible for years.  It comes from Spurgeon and it is on abundance in light of Philippians 4:12: Let not the gifts thy love bestows estrange our hearts from thee. Have the gifts of God … Continue reading

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Building Church Buildings: Do We Spend Too Much?

In Matthew 16:13-20, we find an exchange between Jesus and his disciples.  In this conversation, Jesus asks his followers what people are saying about him and who they are saying he is.  After the disciples answer this question, Jesus then … Continue reading

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Churches Not Immune To The Economic Downturn

Homeowners are struggling to pay their mortgages.  Foreclosure rates are at an unbelievably high level.  The economic downturn has hit us all in one way or another.  Churches are no exception.  As congregants have less money to give, churches have … Continue reading

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A Christian Perspective on Mortgage Bailout

As talk of more government spending to help bail out struggling homeowners spreads, I have to admit I am pondering what it is going to mean for me, my children and even my grandchildren.  I know the money has to come from somewhere … Continue reading

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Do Our Churches Suffer From Low Self-Esteem?

You have heard it before.  A pastor, in an effort to encourage you and others, has said, “God made you just the way you are.  He designed you exactly how he wanted you because He has a specific plan for … Continue reading

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Welcome to the Wal-Mart Church…

The Wal-Mart phenomenon has had a tremendous impact on our culture.  In the beginning, the Wal-Mart business model was to avoid competing with other large stores by placing their stores in under-served communities.  Instead of going into busy, high-population areas, … Continue reading

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Can a “Successful” Church Fulfill its Calling?

Yesterday, I posted asking if you preferred a large church or a small church.  Today, I want to quote a couple of paragraphs from a book I am reading and ask for your response.  This quotation is taken from Ruth … Continue reading

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