John Broadus on Interpreting the Bible

“Be willing to let the Scripture mean what it wants to mean.” – John Albert Broadus (January 24, 1827 – March 16, 1895), dubbed “the world’s greatest living preacher” by Charles Spurgeon


Nelson SearcyLeadership, Ministry

Choose to Be a Church Of—Not With—Small Groups

When it comes to small groups, there are two primary types of churches–churches of small groups and churches with small groups. Drag will subtly latch itself onto a church when leaders make the conventional decision to operate with small groups instead of deciding to be a church of small groups. A church with small groups offers its people a buffet of ministry options to choose from–different programs and … Read More


Nelson SearcyLeadership, Ministry, Small Groups

The Five Stones of Financial Peace

You honor God with your finances through giving–through excelling at each giving stage and learning to live an open-handed life. As you make your climb up the generosity ladder, five big stones need to be in place in your financial life. These stones will give you solidarity and grounding as you move through the stages–or up the rungs–toward a life … Read More


Nelson SearcyLeadership, Ministry, Stewardship

A Child is Born

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” – Isaiah 9:6


Nelson SearcyLeadership, Ministry, Preaching

Merry Christmas from Our Family to Yours!

On this joyful Christmas Eve, I know we are all busy with preparations at church and home. But I wanted to pause for a moment to let you know how grateful I am to be part of your ministry and I look forward to serving you for many years in the future. My family and I, and our entire Church Leader … Read More


Nelson SearcyLeadership, Ministry

The Inclination to Give

An inclination to give is written on your soul, no matter how muted it may be by your present concerns or lack of belief. Sometimes it takes a traumatic experience to bring that God-given pull toward generosity to the surface. Horror novelist Stephen King is not usually associated with sharing timeless biblical principles. But in a commencement speech delivered to … Read More


Nelson SearcyLeadership, Ministry, Stewardship

The Privilege of Prayer: On Communicating with God

Stop and think about the incredible privilege of prayer for a minute. You have the ability to communicate with God—the author of the world, your Creator—whenever and wherever you want. You don’t have to know a secret code, use any particular phrasing, or go through a priest. You can talk with God anytime. He is ready and willing to engage … Read More


Nelson SearcyLeadership

Donald McGavran on a Universal Truth

“A Church Growth principle is a universal truth which, when properly interpreted and applied, contributes significantly to the growth of churches and denominations. It is a truth of God which leads his church to spread his Good News, plant church after church, and increase his Body.” – Donald McGavran, father of the Church Growth Movement, missionary to India and China, one … Read More


Nelson SearcyLeadership, Ministry

Time Management: Making the Most of Your Sabbath

The benefits of observing a weekly Sabbath cannot be overstated. This is an essential practice for any pastor who wants to wisely manage his time, ministry, and family life. If you aren’t currently taking a Sabbath, please trust us and give it a try. You’ll be amazed by how following God’s prescription for rest—even if he took a day off … Read More


Nelson SearcyLeadership, Ministry, Stress Management