What I Will Miss about President Obama

What I Will Miss about President Obama

ORLANDO, FLORIDA—This weekend, America witnessed its forty-fourth peaceful transfer of presidential power. Over the last few weeks, the media has looked ahead at America’s future with Donald Trump as president, and they’ve looked back at Barack Obama’s legacy. Since I...
The Death of Civility

The Death of Civility

Every day our culture seems to become more arrogant, mean-spirited and self-absorbed.Is there no civility left in America?Consider the past four days. . .– Congressman Joe Wilson interrupted President Obama’s speech, shouting “You Lie!”– Serena...
Planning for Every Nation Theological Seminary

Planning for Every Nation Theological Seminary

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE—Just got back from Manila this weekend, and I am looking forward to a full week in our Every Nation office in Nashville. One of my first meetings this week was with missiologist and (recently appointed) Billy Graham Professor of Church, Mission,...
My Thoughts on the Election

My Thoughts on the Election

HO CHI MINH CITY—Tomorrow will end one of the most bizarre and polarizing election cycles in American history. The candidates from the two leading parties are deeply unpopular (with good reason). And Evangelicals are deeply divided over how they should vote—or if they...
My Top 4 Weaknesses as a Preacher

My Top 4 Weaknesses as a Preacher

MANILA, PHILIPPINES—In an Asbury seminary course on preaching, I recently wrote a reflection paper where I talked about my strengths and weaknesses as a preacher. In the interest of time, I’ll just give the weaknesses. Besides, as Michael Scott famously said, “my...
Top 10 Books for Church Planters

Top 10 Books for Church Planters

MANILA, PHILIPPINES—I recently received an email from a pastor and friend of mine who asked me to recommend some books on church planting. Here’s the list I sent him, in no particular order. 1. Starting a New Church by Ralph Moore (2002). Church-planting wisdom from...