It's Tuesday and Sunday's coming. For those of us who preach or teach at church on a regular basis, that can be a bit daunting. But it's encouraging to know that every message or sermon begins with a blank page. We all have to start somewhere. Over the years, I have written a vareity of … Continue reading Some Tips for Preachers
Mark Conner’s BLOG update
By the time you read this, I will have started my 12 week sabbatical. During this time, I will be doing a bit of a technology detox - so no work email, Facebook, Twitter or BLOG activity. Yes, I'm expecting severe withdrawal pains! During this time my BLOG will have a variety of posts which … Continue reading Mark Conner’s BLOG update
The Jesus Story
The Jesus Story Matthew’s begins his story about Jesus with a family tree that any first century Jew would have been pretty impressed with. It includes heroes such as Abraham and David, but also some surprise inclusions such as Boaz (son of Rahab the prostitute) and Solomon (born out of the adulterous relationship of David … Continue reading The Jesus Story
Kingdom Stories
Kingdom Stories Jesus parables are among the best-known and most influential stories in the world. Even if people know nothing about Jesus, they either know about his stories or have encountered their impact in expressions like “prodigal” or “Good Samaritan.” The importance of the parables of Jesus cannot be over-estimated. Jesus was the master creator … Continue reading Kingdom Stories
2012 Global Atheist Convention
The 2012 Global Atheist Convention is back in Melbourne this year (April 13-15th). Some Christians become concerned and worked up about events such as this. Personally, I don't believe that people of faith have anything to fear about doubt or skepticism. No need to picket or boycott events. In fact, dialogue and discussion can be … Continue reading 2012 Global Atheist Convention
Understanding WD40
A friend passed this on to me. Interesting reading ... Before you read to the end, do you know what the main ingredient of WD-40 is? Who knew? I had a neighbour who bought a new car. I got up very early one Sunday morning and saw that someone had spray painted red all around … Continue reading Understanding WD40
My Upcoming Sabbatical
This year is my 28th year on staff at CityLife Church and my 18th as Senior Minister. It's been quite a journey and I am thankful for all that God has done during this time and for the support of our congregation and leadership team. In discussion with the Elders and our senior staff, there … Continue reading My Upcoming Sabbatical
Ministerial Sabbaticals (Pt.2)
In the foreword to Clergy Renewal, Roy M. Oswald lists the following six reasons for a church to encourage a pastor to take regular sabbaticals. 1. The very nature of being a pastor involves continual spiritual growth. Spiritual depth does not happen by accident; it takes hard, intentional work. Basically, it is a lifelong process … Continue reading Ministerial Sabbaticals (Pt.2)
Ministerial Sabbaticals (Pt.1)
Church work is not necessarily more difficult than other work, but it is hard. Staying fresh, alive and creative week after week, year after year, in the midst of the stress, emotion, study, as well as the people and leadership tasks that are required, can be quite a challenge. As a result, a minister's levels … Continue reading Ministerial Sabbaticals (Pt.1)