Summer interns at Westwind Church lead, learn and grow
by Joel Vint, Family Pastor, Westwind Church Two of our summer interns joined 20 of our high school students on a life-changing trip to Estes Park, Colorado for Student Life Camp in July. They had the chance to lead small groups, engage in personal discipleship of...
Students, churches set aside Oct. 15 to “Engage 24”
By Tobin Perry FREDERICKSBURG, VA -- As a student pastor at Spotswood Baptist Church in Fredericksburg, Va., Doug Adams realizes how important it is to involve college students in personal evangelism—and how tough it can be. To help overcome the inherent struggles in...
For It Is By Grace You Have Been Saved – The Salt Company Ames
by Jenn Lee, Ministry Leader Coming to the Freshmen Kickoff was a big deal for Sheila. She was not only new to campus, but she was also not alone; she was pushing a stroller that was carrying her nine-month old daughter. As she made her way to the event, she could...
Seven reasons why we should not abandon the term “Church Member”
By Thom S. Rainer Two years ago I released a book called I Am a Church Member. I’ve been blown away with the response; sales are about to reach one million books. One of the more frequent question readers have asked me is: “Do you think the term ‘church member’ is...
Tithing is Not Taboo: Generosity is Better Than Greed
By Ronnie Floyd Tithing is the spiritual practice of honoring God by giving the first tenth of your entire income to your local church. Tithing is not taboo, meaning it is not banned, prohibited, or forbidden. Your church may not emphasize the importance of tithing...
October brings pastor appreciation opportunities for churches
By Joe Conway ALPHARETTA, Ga.— Imagine if pastors received the same support and accolades reserved for college football coaches. When was the last time you heard a university administration remind its alumni to pamper the head man who walks the Saturday...
Partnering with state conventions
by Jason Allen I had the privilege of meeting with executive directors of the Baptist state conventions in the Midwest earlier this year. I presented on how, together, we might best serve the churches in our region. We enjoyed a robust dialog after my presentation...
IMB’s Platt sends open letter to SBC family
by IMB Staff International Mission Board President David Platt released an open letter to Southern Baptists Friday (Sept. 4), related to the organization’s financial plan announced Aug. 27. In the letter, Platt addresses several concerns and criticisms raised related...
Register Messengers Online for the BCI Annual Meeting
Registration is now open for messengers to the 2016 Baptist Convention of Iowa Annual Meeting. All voting messengers must be registered, and you can save yourself and us a bunch of time if you register online. Online Registration closes at midnight on November 1....
Nine Essentials for Guest-friendly Church Bulletins
By Thom S. Rainer In many circles, the church bulletin or worship folder is perceived to be old school, the tool of staid and traditional churches. Leaders with such a perspective are missing an incredible opportunity to put something in the hands of guests that, at...
