Completing a session of any Bible study can be a challenge, even for the most experienced group leaders. There are many reasons for this of course:  The group may be focused on one specific point. (This is a hallmark of a positive group experience, so don’t sweat it too much.)Discussion may run longer than anticipated. Rabbit trails may threaten...

There is often a vast disconnect between the awareness of the need for disciple-making and practical tools that actually aid in this work. Three factors are essential: Scripture, relationships, and time. Discipleship happens when the life-changing truth of Scripture is infused into genuine relationships over an extended period of time. Our desire was to create a simple, reproducible strategy...

Why does baptism matter? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture demonstrates the importance of baptismWhy we must maintain the gospel as the grounds for baptismWhy Christians who might disagree around the timing and method of baptism still agree on its importanceHow this doctrine relates to...

The Christian faith doesn’t have a large number of formal rituals, but it does have two that are considered essential in the life of the believer. One of those is baptism. But what is it? Let’s find out together. While denominations and traditions may have different nuances to how and when they choose to baptize, Christian baptism is shown...

The letters to the seven churches are filled with insight into what constitutes a faithful Christian congregation. In the first four, we see several important emphases. In the letter to Ephesus, we’re reminded of the need for a passionate, right relationship with God from which good works flow (and without which good works are dead). The letter to Smyrna...

Revelation 2–3 is the section of Scripture I always wish we had more time to invest in during each of our three-year cycles. It pains me to cover all seven churches in one session. Each could make a fantastic session on its own. Each letter is built on fascinating historical context that when known more fully brings it to...