By Paul Koch – “Will you instruct both young and old in the chief articles of Christian doctrine, will you forgive the sins of the those who repent, and will you promised never to divulge the sins confessed to you? Will you minister faithfully to the sick and dying, and will you demonstrate to the … Continue reading A Constant and Ready Ministry
By Joel A Hess - Dear parents, your kids will be catechized whether you like it or not. For many churches, autumn marks the beginning of confirmation classes for young people. The season also witnesses many a pastor’s struggles to convince families to make instructing their children in the faith a top priority. Understandably, after … Continue reading Inevitable Catechesis
By Cindy Koch - Just a scroll through Pinterest, and that was all it took. I was simply looking for a new Sunday School craft and I was suddenly distracted by a fun object lesson involving water. You have probably seen it. A jar of dirty water, representing our personal mess of sin. But along … Continue reading Pinterest Repentance
By Paul Koch - The gathering together of God’s people in one place for worship is one of the most beautifully complex and misunderstood events that regularly happens in any given week. I suppose it was somewhat different for ancient Israel, when they gathered around the Tabernacle or the Temple in Jerusalem. There they had … Continue reading Dividing Truth
By Joel A. Hess - Perhaps more than any other story in scripture, the story of Mary and Martha has been the most scandalous. I am serious. Every time I read and preach on this episode of Jesus’ journey, I get frustrated feedback. Frequently the critics do not just direct their angst at me, but … Continue reading The Church of Martha
By Paul Koch - For those of you who do not know, I have two brothers, one older and one younger. Once a year we all get together with my dad for a little trip where we catch a Laker game and usually explore a city which is new to us. This year we went … Continue reading The Conviction of Things Not Seen
By Paul Koch – I listened to the radio on a recent Sunday afternoon as the reports came in of a shooting at the Garlic Festival in Gilroy, California. A 19-year-old young man had killed 3 and wounded 13 others. Once again, it all seemed senseless and difficult to imagine. Not even one week later … Continue reading Wielding a Dangerous Weapon
