Posts by Dave Malnes
Perspective on member participation in outreach activity
Many of our faithful members genuinely support evangelism, mission work, and outreach activity. Yet, well-meaning interest often does not translate into gospel activity. And that can be frustrating. Perhaps it may be helpful to re-calibrate our prayerful hopes and adjust our expectations. Fear, doubt, and anxiety are real emotions that can keep the most seasoned…
Read MoreHow to be an answer
I have often said that the hardest part of personal evangelism is not learning what to say but having the willingness and courage to say something to make Christ known. We are already equipped through his Word and sacraments. We know John 3:16. And yet, for many of us, it can be really challenging to…
Read MoreA skill that will never die
With technology and Artificial Intelligence quickly entering the mainstream of our society, there is one skill that will never die — the ability to tell stories. According to Lawrence Yeo, people will always be drawn to the human experience that will help define our relationship with AI and technology. Computers are instruments the mind uses…
Read MoreOur Greatest Work
In a performance-based society, what is seen and done before others is rewarded and valued. Accomplishments can define who we are, how we pursue, and how we compare ourselves to others. The world’s definition of what really matters can’t compare to what is most valuable in heaven. A life in Christ reflects this truth. This…
Read MoreThe one thing to reach people
Do you remember the movie, “City Slickers?” A crusty old cowboy named Curly shared the secret of life with some city folk who were helping herd cattle. Holding up one finger, he said, “One thing. Just one thing. You stick to that, and the rest don’t mean [a thing].” Mitch, the city slicker, asked, “What…
Read MoreThe rise of indifference
While attempting to reach our community this Christmas, perhaps the greatest challenge is capturing the attention of a highly distracted audience. They are, largely, indifferent towards church, worship, and God’s means of grace. A word being used to describe this attitude is “apatheism.” What are ways to confront this trend and to communicate the value…
Read MoreWhat Is Success?
When you want to gain respect through success, then success is often defined through quantifiable variables. But what does success look like within the context of eternal life in heaven?
Read MoreLessons from Fall
As a new season brings change, it seems that people are sensing change is coming in other ways. And it’s unsettling and scary.
Read MoreThe Difference Between Ego and Confidence
Having the ability to discern confidence and ego can be a significant factor in sustaining gospel activity. If it is not properly addressed, it can serve to derail initial efforts to instill a mission-minded attitude for your congregation.
Read MorePause and Proclaim
Busyness can be a distraction that does not enable us to prioritize our life. If we are not careful, busyness can disrupt our relationship with God.
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