I have a problem. Although I am born-again -breathing the new life of the Spirit- I still struggle with temptation to live in the flesh. I imagine you can identify with this problem as well. It’s just a part of the Christian life on earth. Paul addresses the issue in Romans 8:5-6 when he says, …
Author Archives: Scott Attebery
The Who & The What
All of Jesus’ teachings are summed up in two passages of Scripture. We call them the Great Commandment and the Great Commission. They are the “who” and the “what” of the disciple’s life. The Great Commandment teaches who I am in Christ (Love God & Love Others). The Great Commission teaches what I am supposed …
To Build or Not to Build?
Building programs. Surely that phrase ranks somewhere on the top ten most polarizing issues in church life. Having pastored a church through a building program, I know first-hand about the added stress and strain they can cause. At the same time, I recognize the benefits that new facilities offer. Like any other major decision in …
Is Discipleship a Starting-Line or a Finish-Line?
Some people think of planned discipleship as a finish line. They think if they can just complete a discipleship program with someone, that will get the person across the spiritual finish line to a place where they are fully mature. Nothing could be further from the truth. First, discipleship is not a program with a …
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Not the Same Scott
“You’re just not the same Scott I used to know.” Ouch. The words from my old friend pierced my heart. He was right. I’m not the same Scott I was fifteen year ago –or even ten years ago or five years ago. I went home that evening in a somber mood. I couldn’t shake the …
Delightful
Over the years, I’m afraid many of us have tried to separate faith from feelings. Don’t get me wrong -there is a healthy balance here. For instance, I don’t love God merely when I feel like it, and my faith is much deeper than being swayed by feelings of peer pressure, shame or guilt. And, …
5 Tips For Cultivating Discipleship In Your Church
1) Pastors should identify the disciple-making that is already happening within their Church. Disciples are being made in every church -the only question is “disciples of what?” Although not all of the discipleship is intentional or profitable, the good news for pastors is that they do not have to create the momentum –it already exists. …
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What is Your Church Advertising?
I see a lot of church advertising these days. Many churches are utilizing billboards, print ads, and social media for the purpose of outreach. I love the concept of utilizing creative spaces to advance the kingdom. However, there is a something unsettling about public ads that advertise with slogans such as: “In depth preaching,” “Contemporary …
I’m Not a Real Farmer, But I Play One in Ministry…
I just had a fascinating conversation with my brother-in-law, Andy, about discipleship. Andy farms and knows all about tractors (especially a certain green brand). We were talking about how people respond better to teaching when someone has taken the time to work with them personally in their spiritual life. In the middle of the conversation, …
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MJ, Discipleship & Missions -Part Three
Recapping parts 1&2: God has created us in His image to reflect His glory. God’s glory is spread throughout the world when we are “fruitful and multiply.” Multiplying God’s Image around the world is the heart of the Great Commission: to make disciples of all nations. Nike makes use of vast resources to project Michael …