Monday's Catch: 'How the Decline of Denominations Is Reshaping American Christianity" And More

How the Decline of Denominations Is Reshaping American Christianity: Lessons from the Southern Baptist Convention
For decades, denominations have experienced a slow-motion deterioration. The declines in any one year are subtle, but each year’s cumulative effects have become a serious problem. Why should we care?

Related: Southern Baptists’ Membership Decline Continues Amid Other Areas of Growth

Rev. David Ewagata challenges African Evangelicals to engage the 'now generation': 'Hope is not a strategy'
In one of the most engaging and provocative speeches delivered at the 13th General Assembly of the Association of Evangelicals in Africa (AEA), the Rev. David Ewagata challenged the continent’s Evangelical leadership to radically reassess their assumptions and strategies regarding Africa’s youth.

The Mortification of Sin
Mortification is the theological term used to describe the call for those who are united to Christ and living in the power of the Spirit (i.e., Christians) to put to death (mortify) lingering sinful impulses that arise from within and resist temptations that surface from outside of the believer.

On Calling a Priest: Asking the Right Questions
Calling a new priest is one of the most consequential decisions a congregation can make. A priest is not just a leader or an administrator but a spiritual guide, a preacher, and a shepherd of souls. Yet too often, the questions asked during clergy interviews fail to reflect the sacred nature of this vocation.

Not every sermon is a challenge
...sometimes it is good to look at your church and highlight, actually, I think we do this pretty well. No doubt imperfectly. Not doubt not as well as we ought. But pretty well in the grand scheme of things. Pretty well relative to other churches we might have been part of. Maybe this bit of scripture that could be a challenge is actually a matter on which our particular church doesn’t need challenging to do better or take a hard look at itself, but needs encouraging that we’re actually doing okay on this one.

The Problem With Altar Calls – 4 Reasons NOT to Give Them
...there are situations and reasons where giving altar calls is not only wrong, it is dishonoring to God. What is the problem with altar calls?

How social media made me a better Christian
...social media’s harmful effects on individuals – worsening mental health, promoting tribalism and ignorance, for example - can be ameliorated by how we choose to engage with it. With some intentional adjustments, its effects on us can be transformed from harmful to enlightening, from a spiritual point of view. When social media brings out the worst in us, we can use that awareness to inspire change towards a better way rather than treading the same path.

When You Don't Feel Like Going to Church
Sometimes the most meaningful worship happens when we show up despite reluctance, allowing God to meet us in our weakness through the church community he designed for our spiritual formation.

Mission Trip Essentials: Packing Lists and Tips for a Faith-Filled Journey
Embarking on a mission trip is a transformative experience filled with opportunities to serve, grow in faith, and build meaningful connections. Whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, thoughtful preparation is essential for making the most of your journey. From packing the right essentials to cultivating a servant-hearted mindset, this guide will help you navigate your mission trip with confidence.