I’m the pastor of FBC Jackson in Jackson, Alabama. Each week, I post “Article Roundup: Helpful Reads,” sharing articles that I believe will benefit the saints who make up FBC Jackson and followers of Christ everywhere. Happy reading!

Value Singleness Without Devaluing Marriage by Kelly Simpson

Singleness should not be an enigma in Christ’s church. “Singleness and marriage present theological truths that together give a fuller, more beautiful picture of the gospel. By considering and communicating ways that single believers and married believers can help one another better grasp the gospel, we highlight the value of both states.”

Back When We Had Friends: Why Brothers Still Need Brothers by Greg Morse

I often ask church members, “Who are your closest friends in the church?” Sadly, most only mention family. Very few mention their fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. This ought not be! “One comedian joked that one of Jesus’s greatest miracles was having twelve adult male friends. We smile, then wince. Should such relationships be this rare? Does God’s word give us expectations that we should want this kind of friend? Pray for this kind of friend? Desire to be this kind of friend? I think it does.”

God of Holy Laughter by David Mathis

According to David Mathis, God’s laughter should affect how we live in this life. I think he’s right. “While God laughs at the wicked, the righteous learn to laugh with their God. His laughter reminds us that he never worries. He never fears. He is never under threat. His laughter evokes our trust and fills our hearts with admiration and courage.”

How Not To Handle a Pastoral Succession by Caleb Morell

Pastoral transitions rarely go well. I suppose it’s because of the spirit described in 1 Corinthians 3 that exists in most churches. That said, it really seems like a plurality of elders is vital for a healthy transition. “Pastoral transitions are among the most delicate moments in a church’s life. Retiring pastors, incoming leaders, and church leadership teams each have a vital role to play in ensuring a smooth and God-honoring transition. When approached with humility, wisdom, and trust in God’s sovereignty, these transitions can strengthen the church for generations to come.”

A Shortage of Shepherds: Keeping Our Pastors in the Face of the Great Dechurching by Steven Wedgeworth

An increasing number of pastors are expressing a desire to leave their pastorate. Why? The main reasons for this trend are inner church conflicts and a lack of optimism regarding the future growth of the church. And though the article doesn’t state this, I think it’s a helpful addition: these two problems—internal conflict and stagnant growth—are often interconnected rather than separate problems. “The Hartford Institute report indicated that clergy dissatisfaction was not linked to the pastor’s own health or feeling of personal wellness. “Burnout” was not the problem. Instead, the biggest issue listed was conflict within the congregation. On the other hand, optimism about a congregation’s future strongly correlated with the ministers wanting to stay at their post. So if pastors want to keep their job, and if churches want to keep their pastors—or attract new candidates—then the two most important goals should be church unity and church growth. Churches should reduce internal conflict and attract and keep new members.”