For centuries, it has been the godparents’ primary role, second only to that of the parents themselves, to raise and disciple children in the Christian faith.
3 Aspects of Christian Living: A Framework for Thinking about Discipleship
How would you explain “discipleship” to a new believer? How would you help a busy person know how to grow and live as a Christian? If you are a trained pastor or theologian, you might have a lot to say about discipleship. It might even feel difficult to summarize. One could say, “Living as a…
What is Catechesis?
The Ancient Roots of Catechesis The word catechesis comes from the Greek word katēcheō, which means simply to teach or instruct. It appears some eight times in the New Testament—four by Luke (Luke 1:4; Acts 18:25; 21:21, 24) and four by Paul (Rom. 2:18, 1 Cor. 14:19; Gal. 6:6, where it occurs twice)—usually to refer…
Pastoral Leadership and the Economy
The decline of the American church is often overblown. However, we have felt a seismic shift in cultural values in the 21st century. Even in the ‘Bible Belt’, it can’t simply be presumed that most people’s moral frameworks are founded on even a hazy understanding of the Bible. In looking for guidance in the behaviors…
Trellises and Vines
The Church is a tended vine. The metaphor runs through all of scripture, from Isaiah 5 to John 15. It’s our model for making disciples. But have we taken a moment to ask what we know about the plants themselves? Consider: Some days our churches feel very aligned with these descriptors, don’t they? We imagine…
Encouraging Family Discipleship
Having children is one of life’s most wonderful privileges, and it carries with it an amazing responsibility to shape their hearts and lives. In fact, I can’t think of any greater responsibility than being entrusted with a human life. We have been made stewards of the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of our children. Grace…
Family Discipleship
We need a revival of family discipleship that begins in the home. Parenting is an amazing responsibility. I will never forget February 25, 2004. It was the day our first daughter was born. It was the day that I became a parent, which was a very emotional day. After a long day of labor, my…
