Tag Christian Living

On My Shelf: January-March

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Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what I’ve been reading over the past few months. I’ve included a brief description of each book from Amazon to give you a taste of what they’re about. Perhaps one of these titles will catch your interest and motivate you to add it to your cart! Before you start scrolling, let me mention some things about these books:

  • I don’t agree with every point in every book I read.
  • I’ve found all of these books to be helpful.
  • I’ve found some of these books to be more helpful than others.

Daily Doctrine: A One-Year Guide to Systematic Theology by Kevin DeYoung

All thoughtful Christians want to better understand the Bible, its author, and its influence on their beliefs. In short―whether they recognize it or not―they want to understand theology. But many find the subject matter too academic, dense, or difficult to understand, and they lack proper study resources to help expand their knowledge of God and his written word.

Designed to make systematic theology clear and accessible for the everyday Christian, this devotional walks through the most important theological topics over the course of a year. Each month is categorized into broad themes, starting with the study of God and concluding with the end times. Written by bestselling author and associate professor of systematic theology Kevin DeYoung, each concise daily reading contains verses for meditation and application, building upon each other and easing readers into the study of systematic theology. 

  • Written for Thoughtful Christians: Offers pastors, ministry leaders, and everyday Christians access to a theologically rich yet accessible study 
  • One-Year Plan: Daily readings build off one another to help ease readers into systematic theology 
  • Covers Important Theological Topics: Each month covers a different broad theological topic, including mankind, salvation, the church, end times, and more
  • Written by Kevin DeYoung: Pastor, bestselling author, and associate professor of systematic theology

Theo of Golden: A Novel by Allen Levi

“A word-of-mouth smash hit.” —The New York Times

One spring morning, a stranger named Theo arrives in the small Southern city of Golden. He doesn’t explain much about where he came from or why he’s there—but when he visits the local coffeehouse, where pencil portraits of the people of Golden hang on the walls, he begins purchasing them, one at a time, and giving each portrait to the person depicted. In exchange, he asks only for the person’s story. And so portrait by portrait, person by person, secrets are revealed, regrets are shared, and ordinary lives are profoundly altered.

A story of giving and receiving, of seeing and being seen, Theo of Golden is an unforgettable novel about the power of generosity, the importance of connection, and the quiet miracles that happen when we choose kindness and wonder.

Lies My Therapist Told Me: Why Christians Should Aim for More Than Just Treating Symptoms by Greg Gifford

From beloved Christian counselor, professor, and podcaster Greg Gifford comes a bold and balanced critique of the mental health establishment. Too many people are caught in a vicious cycle of visiting every doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, and therapist in their area only to find frustrating labels and numbing medications at the end of each path. Rather than eradicating anxiety in the same way vaccines conquered smallpox, the mental health establishment has seen the number of diagnoses and prescriptions skyrocket on its watch.

How did we get here? And does Christianity have any answers for this mental health crisis? In Lies My Therapist Told Me, Dr. Greg Gifford delivers the definitive Christian critique of secular psychiatry and psychology. He shows how mental health culture spreads beliefs that misinform our understanding of ourselves and our issues, and he debunks popular myths such as:

  • We feel and act the way we do because the body keeps the scores of trauma
  • Addiction is a disease
  • If you improve your brain health, your mind will follow
  • Medications can heal your mind
  • Every abnormal or sinful behavior is caused by a mental disorder

These ideas, though common, are ultimately unhelpful because they are based on unbiblical assumptions. Gifford brings clarity where secular therapy has created confusion, and offers hope even for those struggling with the hard cases. Through deep research, biblical teaching, and the inspiring stories of real counselees, he shows why we can’t blame the past—or even a diagnosis—for our bad behavior, and why our society’s growing unhappiness is not primarily a medical issue.

With a foreword by Todd Friel of Wretched Radio, this book is a must-read for counselors and counselees alike. You can read all the mental health research in the world, but you still won’t learn God’s answers for winning the battles in your mind. Lies My Therapist Told Me is a powerful, cutting-edge argument that the supernatural wisdom of the Bible is truly enough for every need.

Redeeming Sex in Marriage: How the Gospel Rescues Sex, Transforms Marriage, and Reveals the Glory of God by Scott Mehl

Scott Mehl has created a solid resource to help the church talk openly and biblically about sex and more specifically about intimacy in marriage. While the world insists on redefining what the Lord created to be good, worshipful, and glorifying, Mehl’s book clarifies God’s design for sex and how to joyfully experience it in our marriages. Bringing careful thinking and biblical clarity to the practical questions many believers wrestle with today, Redeeming Sex in Marriage is not just for pastors or counselors but for every married couple in the church.–Shauna Van Dyke, Founder and Biblical Counselor, Truth Renewed Ministries

Scott Mehl has written an important book on an important topic. Christians need to understand God’s design for the sexual aspect of marriage, and Mehl’s book will help. It is a tactfully written, practical book, filled with Scripture, and a resource for counselors who provide care for husbands and wives who need direction.–Caroline Newheiser, ACBC Certified Counselor; Author, When Words Matter Most

We all agree that sex outside marriage is sinful and destructive. This doesn’t, however, imply that sex within marriage is easy. The bodily union of two sinners can be complicated. This book helps Christian married couples to wisely navigate the sexual challenges they face. It is grounded in sound theology and biblical exegesis while also being most practical. It answers the hard, awkward questions directly but discreetly. The greatest thing about this book is that it shows how the gospel can redeem the sexual relationship between husband and wife.–Jim Newheiser, Executive Director, The Institute for Biblical Counseling and Discipleship

Intended for Pleasure: Sex Technique and Sexual Fulfillment in Christian Marriage by Ed Wheat and Gaye Wheat

Sex is a gift from God. But many couples don’t experience the kind of joy and fulfillment God intended. If you’ve ever been frustrated with a lack of intimacy in your marriage, or if you just want to know more about how you can get the most out of your relationship, Intended for Pleasure is for you. 

This honest and frank resource will answer your questions about sex and sexuality, improving sexual response, sex techniques for pregnancy, birth control, sex at any age, solutions for sexual problems, and much more.

All of the questions you’ve been afraid to ask (or didn’t even know to ask!) are answered right here. A perfect gift for newlyweds and a trusted resource for pastors and marriage counselors, this classic book has helped more than a million people understand and enjoy the gift God intended for pleasure.

Family Discipleship: Leading Your Home through Time, Moments, and Milestones by Matt Chandler and Adam Griffin

“I’ve never read a book on this subject with so many practical suggestions for bringing a Christian influence on your children.” Donald S. Whitney, author, Family Worship and Praying the Bible

Discipling your family can feel like an intimidating task, but it doesn’t need to be overwhelming or complicated. With a simple plan in place, discipleship is something every parent can do.

Pastors Matt Chandler and Adam Griffin have made it their mission to help you develop a sustainable rhythm of gospel-centered discipleship focused in three key areas: time, moments, and milestones. Filled with suggestions, sample plans, and Scripture references, this book begins with the end in mind―equipping you to create a unique plan for your family as you raise your children in the love and fear of the Lord.

  • Aids parents as they seek to raise their children in the faith
  • Provides encouragement for anyone struggling to see the fruit of family discipleship
  • Encourages parents to develop their own methods and philosophy of family discipleship
  • Focuses on building discipleship structured around 3 pillars: time, moments, and milestones

Father Hunger: Why God Calls Men to Love and Lead Their Families by Douglas Wilson

Fatherlessness is a “rot that is eating away at the modern soul,” writes Douglas Wilson, and the problem goes far beyond physical absence. “Most of our families are starving for fathers, even if Dad is around, and there’s a huge cost to our children and our society because of it.” Father Hunger takes a thoughtful, timely, richly engaging excursion into our cultural chasm of absentee fatherhood. Blending leading-edge research with incisive analysis and real-life examples, Wilson:

  • Traces a range of societal ills, from poverty and crime to joyless feminism and paternalistic government expansion, to a vacuum of mature masculinity
  • Explains the key differences between asserting paternal authority and reestablishing true spiritual fathering
  • Uncovers the corporate-fulfillment fallacy and other mistaken assumptions that undermine fatherhood
  • Extols the benefits of restoring fruitful fathering, from stronger marriages to greater economic liberty

Filled with practical ideas and self-evaluation tools, Father Hunger both encourages and challenges men to “embrace the high calling of fatherhood,” becoming the dads that their families and our culture so desperately need them to be.

God and Country: Upholding Faith, History, and National Identity by John Wilsey

Is nationalism always a threat to Christian faith? In God and Country: Upholding Faith, History, and National Identity, John D. Wilsey argues that nationalism is a complex phenomenon with varied expressions, some dangerously opposed to Christianity, others potentially compatible with a biblical worldview. Wilsey demonstrates how nationalism can become a surrogate religion, even cloaking itself in Christian language, and illustrates that this danger isn’t confined to one side of the political spectrum.   

Examining the unique conditions that have fostered different forms of religiously-infused nationalism in America, this book surveys the origins and pitfalls of nationalism, offering a biblically grounded framework for thinking about God and country. Wilsey provides a crucial perspective for Christians seeking to navigate the treacherous waters of contemporary public discourse and love their nation without falling prey to its most dangerous excesses. 

A Call to Prayer by J.C. Ryle

Are you neglecting the most vital discipline of the Christian life? In A Call to Prayer, renowned 19th-century pastor and theologian J.C. Ryle issues a stirring challenge to believers everywhere: make prayer a living, breathing priority. With compelling urgency, Ryle emphasizes that prayer is essential, not optional—for spiritual growth, for perseverance, and for intimacy with Christ.

First published in the 19th century, this short yet profound work has become a beloved devotional classic, awakening countless Christians to the necessity and power of daily, personal prayer. With clarity, boldness, and biblical conviction, Ryle reminds readers that a prayerless soul is a Christless soul—and that God graciously invites all to seek Him in sincere, fervent prayer. Why readers love A Call to Prayer:

  • A convicting and encouraging message for every Christian, new or mature
  • Ideal for personal devotions, small group study, or pastoral encouragement
  • A concise yet profound Christian classic on the discipline of prayer
  • Written by J.C. Ryle, one of the most respected voices of evangelical truth and holiness
  • A must-read for those pursuing spiritual growth, revival, and deeper communion with God

Whether you are struggling in your prayer life or looking to rekindle your spiritual passion, A Call to Prayer will challenge and inspire you to seek God daily with urgency, humility, and hope.

We’re raising a four-year-old and a two-year-old, so Kahlie and I have found ourselves reading children’s books just as often as we read other books. That said, here are some children’s books we’ve read to our kids over the past few months. If you’re into Pilgrim’s Progress, then Little Pilgrim’s Big Journey is an absolute must-have! Our daughter LOVES it!

The Biggest Story: How the Snake Crusher Brings Us Back to the Garden by Kevin DeYoung

“Magnificent and memorable.” ―Randy Alcorn, author, Heaven

“Once upon a time there lived a man and a woman. They were the happiest people on the planet. True, they were the only people on the planet, but they were still terrifically happy. Unfortunately, things didn’t stay happy and wonderful for long . . .”

The Bible is full of exciting stories that fill children with awe and wonder. But kids need to know how all those classic stories connect to Scripture’s overarching message about God’s glorious plan to redeem his rebellious people.

In The Biggest Story, Kevin DeYoung―a best-selling author and father of nine―leads kids and parents alike on an exciting journey through the Bible, connecting the dots from the garden of Eden to Christ’s death on the cross to the new heaven and new earth.With powerful illustrations by award-winning artist Don Clark, this imaginative retelling of the Bible’s core message―how the Snake Crusher brings us back to the garden―will draw children into the biblical story, teaching them that God’s promises are even bigger and better than we think. Ages 5-8 (read to me) Ages 8-11 (read to myself)

Little Pilgrim’s Big Journey: Part One by Tyler Van Halteren

John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress Fully Illustrated & Adapted for Kids

Follow Christian on his unforgettable journey and help equip your kids to lead a life of faith as they follow the King’s path to the Celestial City. 

Next to the Bible, The Pilgrim’s Progress is the most printed and translated book of all time. John Bunyan’s ability to combine a dynamic adventure story with biblical truth has captivated the minds and hearts of children and adults for centuries. 

With 224 pages of captivating illustrations, Little Pilgrim’s Big Journey makes this life-changing story more engaging than ever for kids. We believe this message of faith and bravery is needed today more than ever, and hope this book will inspire the next generation of ‘little pilgrims’ to believe the King’s Word, follow the King’s Path, and seek the King’s City.

  • Written for ages 2-10
  • Genuine Cloth Cover
  • Gold-Foil Print
  • Ribbon Page Marker
  • 224 Fully Illustrated Pages

Little Pilgrim’s Big Journey: Part Two by Tyler Van Halteren

he story continues! John Bunyan published Part II ofThe Pilgrim’s Progress in 1684, six years after the first part. This version features the story of Christiana and includes many new characters and biblical lessons. 

This is a book that children will treasure for years to come. The cloth hardcover and gold foil print give it an heirloom feel, and the captivating illustrations help to keep younger children engaged. 

Part II of Little Pilgrim’s Big Journey comes with: 

  • Genuine Cloth Cover
  • Rounded Spine
  • Gold-Foil Print
  • Ribbon Page Marker
  • 232 Fully Illustrated Pages

Little Pilgrim’s Big Journey: Part Three by Tyler Van Halteren

Little Pilgrim’s Big Journey Part III is the epic conclusion to the Little Pilgrim series. Follow Jude, Eli, and Mercy as they seek to fulfill the King’s commission and spread the good news of the Kingdom.

Part III is a completely new story that continues the story introduced in Part I and II.  It combines characters from The Pilgrim’s Progress with stories from Bunyan’s own life, as well as from the New Testament books of Acts and Revelation. This book includes many important biblical lessons, including the role of the church in our journey, the call to evangelism and service, and the glorious hope for all believers.

Part III of Little Pilgrim’s Big Journey comes with: 

  • Genuine Cloth Cover
  • Rounded Spine
  • Gold-Foil Print
  • Ribbon Page Marker
  • 228 Fully Illustrated Pages
  • Chapter Summaries and Questions

The Beginner’s Gospel Story Bible by Jared Kennedy

The Beginner’s Gospel Story Bible is a gospel-centered, Bible storybook for toddlers and preschoolers with fifty-two Bible stories retold in a simple and compelling way. Author Jared Kennedy traces through the stories of the Old and New Testament how God keeps his promises in surprising ways better than anyone could have ever thought or imagined! Each story highlights for young children God’s story of redemption through Jesus Christ and the unexpected ways that God’s grace and mercy are revealed throughout the Bible.

Children will hear the good news of God’s love for them clearly expressed in ways that will speak to their young hearts. Each story ends with a question that Christian parents and caregivers can use to further reinforce the story. Brightly colored illustrations highlight each story and add fun teaching elements of counting, opposites, patterns, and object recognition to keep even the youngest child’s attention on these important Christian teachings about God’s love.

The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love by Hannah Harrison

The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is a humorous and heartwarming picture book about God’s unconditional love. This story beautifully captures the essence of Psalm 23, showing the importance of trusting God, our Good Shepherd, with our lives.

Meet George, a silly and sometimes stubborn sheep living happily under the care of a Good Shepherd. But when shearing time comes, George decides it’s time to make a run for it, and soon finds himself on a journey full of unexpected disappointment, discomfort, and danger. Ultimately, he finds rescue and learns why he really does need a shepherd.

The Bible is full of references to sheep and shepherds, but what does it mean to be a good shepherd? And how are we like sheep? The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep uses an unforgettable character and riveting story to bring biblical truth to life for kids and illustrate the many comforting and loving attributes of God.

The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is perfect for:

  • Children ages 4 and up
  • Family devotions and bedtime reading
  • Discussions about the meaning of Psalm 23, the parable of the lost sheep, and how God is always with us
  • Sunday school lessons and church libraries
  • Easter baskets, baptism or First Communion gifts, birthday gifts, and other gift-giving opportunities

Article Roundup

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Here’s a collection of helpful, edifying articles. Perhaps one will capture your attention and encourage you in the Lord. Happy reading!

5 Signs of Dead Faith by Robert Plummer

A dead faith inevitably reveals itself. In this article, Plummer lists five signs of a dead faith from the book of James. “Thus, James instructs us that there are two categories of faith—(1) faith that has works and is thus living and (2) faith that does not have works and is thus dead. Works and faith are not the same thing. Rather, works are produced by a genuine faith and are, therefore, evidence of it. In fact, James’s explicit language would even call into question my use above of the verb “produced.” Genuine faith has works. Works are inherent and organic to living, saving faith.”

Top 10 Books of 2025 by Kevin DeYoung

I always enjoy looking through Kevin DeYoung’s top 10 books of any given year. Here are his top 10 books of 2025. “This list is not meant to assess the thousands of good books published in the past year. This is simply a list of the books—Christian and non-Christian, but all non-fiction—that I thought were the best in the past year. “Best” doesn’t mean I agreed with everything in them; it means I found these books—all published in 2025—a strong combination of thoughtful, useful, helpful, insightful, and challenging. Undoubtedly, the list each year reflects my own interests and tends to be heavy on history and theology.”

The Gospel Coalition 2025 Book Awards by the TGC Staff

On a similar note, the TGC staff listed out their book awards as well. “The Gospel Coalition’s annual book awards offer help identifying “sound theological works” for your enrichment. We work hard to identify some of the best evangelical books published each year. This announcement is the culmination of months of hard work by a big team of book lovers. We receive nominations from publishers in 11 categories. Then our editors work together to recommend finalists in each category. Finally, a panel of judges reads each one carefully before casting their votes.”

“You need to read. Renounce as much as you will all light literature, but study as much as possible sound theological works, especially the Puritanic writers, and expositions of the Bible. We are quite persuaded that the very best way for you to be spending your leisure, is to be either reading or praying.” Spurgeon

No One Drifts into Godliness: Three Resolves for Young Men by Erik Thoennes

Erik reminds young men, really all of us, that we must discipline ourselves for the purpose of godliness. “A Christian’s life of discipline mostly looks mundane and unimpressive. We devote ourselves to the word, worship, prayer, proclamation, fellowship, service, suffering, giving, missions, and other basic means of grace that lead to growing intimacy with God and kingdom fruitfulness. Apart from such seemingly mundane discipline, however, we will drift toward despair rather than deeper delight.“

What Does It Mean to Have the Christmas Spirit? J.I. Packer’s Answer by Randy Alcorn

Randy Alcorn shares an excerpt from J. I. Packer’s Knowing God that describes what it means to have the Christmas spirit. It’s a powerful quote. Here’s a taste: “The Christmas spirit does not shine out in the Christian snob. For the Christmas spirit is the spirit of those who, like their Master, live their whole lives on the principle of making themselves poor–spending and being spent–to enrich their fellow humans, giving time, trouble, care and concern, to do good to others–and not just their own friends–in whatever way there seems need.”

The Case for Children in Corporate Worship

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Introductory Statement: The church, as the body of Christ, is called to be a family. This is not merely a metaphor; it’s a living, breathing reality (1 Timothy 3:14-16). And the gathered worship of God’s people is the heartbeat of this family, where the Word is faithfully preached, the ordinances are properly administered, and the people of God are progressively edified. (CLICK HERE to view a handout on the importance of corporate worship from one of my Sunday evening teachings.)

“Corporate worship is the most important thing we could ever do in this life.” Jonathan Cruse

“Corporate worship is the single most important means of grace and our greatest weapon in the fight for joy, because like no other means, corporate worship combines all three principles of God’s ongoing grace: his word, prayer, and fellowship.” David Mathis

The Context: Our church family offers age-segregated ministries during Sunday School, Sunday evening ministries, and Wednesday evening ministries. The only time our church does not offer age-segregated ministries is on Sunday morning during the corporate worship hour. (We do offer a nursery for 0-3-year-olds.)

The Concern: Recently, a handful of church members have voiced their desire to create a separate children’s church for children aged 4 to 5th grade, intending to provide a tailored worship experience for the younger ones in our church. While I recognize the well-meaning nature of this proposal, I must express my concern that such a separation would inadvertently remove our children from the central aspect of church life: corporate worship, the heartbeat of a local church.

The Thesis of this Blog: Since this topic has gained a little traction, I wanted to briefly explain why I oppose children’s church for 4-year-olds to 5th graders. Ultimately, I believe that children should actively participate in corporate worship, as their presence is both biblically encouraged and essential for the health of our local church.

The Biblical Precedence for Intergenerational Corporate Worship

Old Testament: In the Old Testament, the Lord our God directly spoke to children. When He addressed the people from Mount Sinai, He had a message for kids: “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you” (Exodus 20:12). Additionally, in ancient Israel, the people of God are shown gathering together—all men, women, and children—to hear His Word and to respond in praise. For example, in Deuteronomy 31:12-13, Moses instructed the Israelites to assemble “the people—men, women, and little ones” to hear the Law “that they may learn and fear the Lord your God.” The term “litte ones” refers to children who are not yet able to walk long distances on their own. This mention of “little ones” is significant because it emphasizes the important covenantal reality that the next generation must be present to hear God’s statutes and promises.

The Gospels: Similarly, during Jesus’s ministry, He rebuked His disciples for hindering children, saying, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:14). In the ancient world, “A child was a person of no importance in Jewish society, subject to the authority of his elders, not taken seriously except as a responsibility, one to be looked after, not one to be looked up to.”[1] The disciples believed that the incarnate Son of God had more significant matters to attend to than being interrupted by children. However, this assumption was far from accurate. Contrary to the prevailing worldview of the time, the Lord Jesus welcomed and blessed children throughout His earthly ministry.

New Testament Epistles: Finally, as Paul wrote his letters to the early church, his pastoral concern extended to the youngest in the congregation. In his epistle to the Ephesians, he bent down on his apostolic knee and said, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right” (Ephesians 6:1-3). He taught a similar truth to the Colossians: “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord” (Colossians 3:20). Paul’s words not only convey biblical instruction, they also convey God’s heart for family units.

Corporate Worship is the Primary Context for Discipleship

The Primacy of Corporate Worship: Brothers and sisters, while we recognize that the Lord is omnipresent, it’s important to understand that His presence in corporate worship is both special and unique (Matthew 18:20; 1 Corinthians 5:4). A Puritan theologian emphasizes this by stating that “the Lord is with His people in public ordinances in a manner that is more special—more effective, more constant, and more intimate.” Because of this, corporate worship is essential to the life and minsitry of a church, especially when it comes to discipleship. It is the place where the Lord Jesus Christ meets with His people in a special way through the ministry of the Word and the proper administration of the ordinances. Therefore, excluding children from corporate worship denies them the opportunity to experience this significant moment that the Lord Jesus Christ has ordained for His people each week.

Corporate Worship Builds Up Children: Corporate worship is important not just for adults but also for children. While kids may not grasp every theological concept, such as justification and sanctification, they can still learn from the elements of the service. They can appreciate the flow of prayers, the beauty of hymns, the seriousness of the ordinances, and the impact of God’s Word being read aloud. Over time, I believe the Holy Spirit uses these experiences in worship to teach and shape children. He impresses deep truths on their hearts and minds, helping them develop a reverence for God’s greatness and a clearer understanding of the church’s purpose and mission. Therefore, keeping children away from these meaningful aspects of worship can hinder their spiritual growth and doctrinal formation.

“The Lord is most there where He is most engaged to be, and He has engaged Himself to be most there where most of his people are. The Lord has engaged to be with every particular saint, but when the particulars are joined in public worship, there are all His engagements united.” David Clarkson

Children Bless the Gathered Congregation

We Need to See the Children: I believe the presence of children in worship blesses the entire congregation. In the wisdom of God, the church is not a collection of isolated individuals but a covenant community spanning multiple generations. When children are present, adults are reminded of their responsibility to model godliness and pass down the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints “to the next generation” (Psalm 78:4). The cries of an infant or the wiggling of a toddler are not distractions but signs of life—evidence that God is fulfilling His promise to build His church through the generations. In other words, we need to see the children. It’s good for us as a church. And a church that cannot tolerate the presence of children risks becoming a barren institution.

“God didn’t fashion us to enjoy him finally as solitary individuals, but as happy members of a countless large family.” David Mathis

“At home, in my own house, there is no warmth or vigor in me, but in the church when the multitude is gathered together, a fire is kindled in my heart and it breaks its way through.” Martin Luther

Corporate Worship Equips Parents to Fulfill Their God-Given Responsibility

Children Need To See Their Parents: Is it healthy for a child to rarely see their parents participating in corporate worship? Is it beneficial for a child to scarcely see their father and mother participate in corporate prayers, congregational singing, and fellowshipping with fellow members of the household of God? I don’t believe it is. I think it significantly hinders a parent’s ability to fully disciple their children in the Christian faith. Conversely, involving children in corporate worship enables and equips parents to better disciple their children.

Consider this: the home serves as the foundational school of faith for children, while the church’s gathered worship reinforces the important teachings taught in the home. When children observe their parents engaging in worship—singing zealously, praying sincerely, and listening attentively to the preached Word—they are learning valuable lessons. As kids see their parents glorifying and enjoying God, they begin to realize the central purpose of their existence as well: to glorify and enjoy God!

Parents Can Take Corporate Worship Home: Furthermore, including children in corporate worship creates an opportunity for parents to continue the conversation at home, whether by explaining key points from the sermon or unpacking the meaning behind an old hymn. This connection between home life and church life enriches the family’s spiritual life and helps root children in the Christian faith.

Corporate Worship Does More For Children Than You Think

Children Can Get It: Some may argue that children are too young to understand aspects of corporate worship or that their presence disrupts its solemnity. However, this perspective underestimates both children’s capacity for understanding and the nature of corporate worship itself. While a child may not be able to articulate complex doctrines like the incarnation, they can certainly comprehend that Jesus loves them and died for their sins. Moreover, corporate worship is not a performance that requires perfect solemnity and silence; it is a family gathering where everyone is welcome. (I do believe parents should be instructed on the appropriate time to take a disruptive and unhinged child out of the gathering.)

The Conclusion

I believe that children should actively participate in corporate worship. We should resist the cultural tendency to separate our children from the life of the congregation. Instead, let’s embrace the beautiful yet messy reality of intergenerational worship. By doing this, we obey scripture and showcase the transformative power of the gospel, uniting all generations—young and old—in glorifying our great God. This, church, is one reason why corporate worship reveals the wisdom and glory of God to a spiritually ignorant and dark world.

“Christ’s people ought to be more welcoming than anyone else to children. Our churches should not be places where the adults cannot wait to put the children away in order to get to the adult task of worship. One of the scandals of so much evangelicalism is that we send people to their rooms as soon as we get to church. . . You should see people sitting in pews whose feet cannot touch the floor. . . We should, in church, welcome the wiggling and the squirming.” Albert Mohler

A Few Applications

As a church, we can take some small steps to cultivate an environment that fosters meaningful corporate worship for families and children:

  • Equip Families: We should provide good resources to help families train their children to participate in corporate worship in an age-appropriate manner. For instance, I recently came across a book titled “Parenting in the Pew,” which has been recommended as a guide for families seeking to shephered their children during corporate worship.
  • Cultivate Patience: It’s important for our congregation to bear with one another, especially during corporate worship. We’re family, after all, and we are all trying to figure it out.
  • Encourage Discipleship: We should encourage our seasoned, godly women to take on the important role of mentoring young mothers (Titus 2:4). They need to impart their wisdom and teach young mothers how to parent their children in the context of corporate worship.
  • Sermons for All: It’s really helpful to preach sermons that connect with the kids in our congregation, just like Paul did in his letters. This way, we can get our younger members involved and show them we were thinking about them as we prepared our sermons.
  • Singable Theology: We should ensure that the hymns and songs we choose are gospel-centered and singable. This way, people of all ages, from kids to grandparents, can join in and worship the Lord together through song!

If we work together to do this, we can foster a healthy church culture that honors God and supports the spiritual growth of future generations within the life of First Baptist Church of Jackson.

[1] R. T. France, Matthew: An Introduction and Commentary, vol. 1, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1985), 274.

Article Roundup: Helpful Reads

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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!

A Clear Moral Divide: It’s Not Hard to Explain Why Christians Vote Republican by Andrew Walker

I’m grateful that Andrew Walker continues to address this topic. “Once it is understood that the political divide in contemporary America is, at its core, a moral divide—and that moral reasoning is inescapably shaped by underlying religious or metaphysical commitments—it follows that the fundamental distinction between the major political parties lies in the extent to which each permits itself to be guided by religiously informed moral values. While party identities may evolve over time, the modern Democratic Party has become institutionally aligned with a secular progressive framework that is, in its foundational assumptions, incompatible with a biblical moral vision.”

The End for Which God Created the World by Kevin DeYoung

A stream of gratitude should flow from our hearts and mouths as we reflect on God’s work of creation. “We must never suppose that God created the cosmos out of lack—because he wanted a relationship, or he wanted someone to love. God did not create the world because he was thirsty. Rather, God created the world because it is the nature of a fountain to overflow. Creation is the super-abundance of divine goodness, beauty, mercy, love, wisdom, power, sovereignty, self-sufficiency, self-existence, justice, holiness, faithfulness, and freedom.”

Do You See the Holy Spirit by Sinclair Ferguson

When Sinclair Ferguson writes about the person of the Holy Spirit, you should read it! “So, for all the repetition of the mantra that the Holy Spirit is no longer “the forgotten person of the Godhead,” it is questionable whether we enjoy richer, more intimate communion with the Spirit himself. So, the lingering question (at least for me) remains this: Who is the Holy Spirit? How can I think what Spirit dwells within me?”

How the Exile is Relevant for Christians Today by Nicholas Piotrowski

Church, we’re almost home! “Between Jesus’s first and second comings, we are in the last chapter of history. For in Jesus’s death, resurrection, and ascension, the ages have shifted. We have entered into the time when the man Jesus Christ has launched our homecoming. The major turning point of history, therefore, is not the Enlightenment, the founding of America, or the last election. It’s not your birthday or recent promotion or dismissal. It is the time in history when God entered the creation in Christ and commenced the church’s return to the presence of God—now in the church’s worship (Heb. 12:18‒25) and soon in that new creation world without end (Heb. 12:26‒27).”

A Word on Diligence by Blake Long

Articles like this are always timely. Perhaps that’s because I often find myself misusing time. “Be intentional, believer, about your diligence unto the Lord. Make the best use of your time. We won’t be perfect, but we want to glorify God with our time. Whether it’s social media, TV, or the like, it’s not the consumption that is the problem (although it sometimes can be), but it’s the over-consumption. We replace Bible-reading with binge-watching the latest show on Netflix. We replace prayer with mindlessly scrolling through reels. We replace our spiritual disciplines with different things that distract us. God has called us to more than that.”

Article Roundup: Helpful Reads

philipmcduffie Leave a comment

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!

The Woman Who Saved Capitol Hill Baptist Church by Caleb Morell

Praise the Lord for Agnes Shankle, a woman who stood up and spoke for the glory of God and the good of her local church. Also, she is an excellent example of how congregationalism can prevent a church from drifting. “A sign of a church’s health is not simply how well the church’s leaders know their Bibles but how well the members do. It should be every church’s prayer that if its leadership ever attempts to lead in a direction of unfaithfulness to God’s word, there is an Agnes Shankle in their midst who is willing to stand up and say, ‘Not in my house.'”

Orthodoxy Has Always Been Essential for Orthopraxy by Kevin DeYoung

Let us remain faithful to good, sound apostolic doctrine, trusting that the Lord will work through it to empower us to live godly lives in this present evil age. “It is not enough to exhort people to live like Jesus. To be sure, the apostolic message exhorted people to live godly lives but only in conjunction with a robust message about sin, salvation, incarnation, resurrection, atonement, reconciliation, and eternal life. Any gospel that denies these essentials or ignores them or skips over them to get to something else or leads people to doubt them or does not deal straightforwardly with them is, in effect, a different gospel. The Christian faith is more than a doctrine to be believed, but it is never less.”

There’s No Contradiction Between God’s Empowerment and Our Efforts to Battle Sin by Randy Alcorn

God enables Spirit-indwelt Christ-followers to put sin to death and live godly, holy lives in this present evil age. “If you believe Christ automatically does everything to make the Christian life happen, how do you understand ‘make every effort’? There is no such thing as a passive Christian life. The passive soldier is an easy target. The good news is that God makes His resurrection power available to us to walk in victory over sin. Unfortunately, many people think of this as automatic and do not take aggressive efforts to guard themselves.”

Enjoying God Together Forever: The Beatific Vision and Friendship by Samuel Perkins

Samuel Perkins strives to show how the Beatific Vision “enriches the Christian life in one particular area: Christian fellowship, especially fellowship found in the context of our local churches.” “Not in vain does the author of Hebrews warn against the habit of skipping church (Heb. 10:25). He goes on to say that, in a very real sense, when we gather together for regular worship, we go to heaven (Heb. 12:18–29). In other words, on those frantic Lord’s Day mornings, when you are trying to get your kids out the door with pleas of ‘time to go to church!’ you would not be lying if instead you said, ‘time to go to heaven!’ This would do wonders for the way we look at our humble little churches and the relationships we forge there. The prospect of the beatific vision motivates us to redouble our efforts to press in and invest in these relationships. The deeper, more sanctifying, more intimate, more God-glorifying our relationships are here, the more they reflect our heavenly homeland and give us a taste of future glory.”

Gratitude by Jake Meador

I’m thankful for how Jake Meador teaches us to show honor to whom honor is due. This also serves as a good reminder to thank God for those teachers He has used to edify and build us up in the faith. “Two of TGC’s founders, of course, are no longer involved in the work—D. A. Carson because of health reasons and Tim Keller because he has gone to his rest. The third founder, John Piper, now nearly 80, continues to speak (and, if his quip about AI at the end of his keynote is any measure, still has his fastball). But even for Piper, much of the work he will do I suspect he has done. And as I thought about these things while attending the conference, the overwhelming sense I had throughout was a feeling of profound gratitude.”

Article Roundup: Helpful Reads

philipmcduffie Leave a comment

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!

The Church and the Embryo: Evangelicals Have Largely Failed to Take a Stand Against IVF by Nathanael Blake

If the church is to maintain a consistent pro-life ethic, it must oppose the current practices surrounding IVF, even if some folks will be offended. “But most conservative Protestant denominations, let alone the multitude of nondenominational congregations, have tried to dodge the issue. And there is an obvious reason for this: IVF is popular, and many churches have members who have used it, in many cases without regard for the fate of “excess” embryos. Taking a stand on IVF—even only to say that human embryos should not be destroyed—would mean calling people to repentance in ways that will be difficult and painful. But a church that won’t do that risks becoming merely a Jesus-branded social club.”

The Enormous Significance of Small Tasks by Melissa Edgington

This article will encourage the parents of young children. “Today I found myself becoming irritated because I have writing to do, and instead I was coaxing a toddler to sit on the toilet. For just one moment the attitude hit hard that I have more important things to do, and as that thought hung in the air over my frazzled, middle-aged, graying head, I felt my stomach drop. Instant repentance washed over me, and I know Jesus heard the silent cry of my heart: Lord, forgive me.”

10 Things You Should Know about the Resurrection by Adrian Warnock

EVERY SUNDAY IS RESURRECTION SUNDAY! “Sadly, the church only seems to get excited about the resurrection once a year at Easter time. In reality, every Sunday should be Resurrection Sunday. The reason why the early church began to meet on the first day of the week was to celebrate Jesus’s defeat of death. Imagine what church would be like if we consciously gathered every week to celebrate the resurrection?”

Don’t Wait to Have Kids: If You’re Married, You’re Ready to Start Having Children—and Waiting is Risky by John Shelton

John gives us several reasons why married couples should start having children sooner rather than later. I think they’re compelling. “Don’t wait to start having kids” was the best advice I ever received as a newlywed. While conventional wisdom says to put off parenthood for a couple years to focus on your marriage or your household finances, the truth is that you will never be fully ready and there are serious costs to waiting.”

How Does Sanctification Differ from Justification? by Kevin DeYoung

It’s always good to get a refresher on the doctrines of justification and sanctification. “From this definition, we can already see that justification and sanctification, though related, are different gifts. The most serious, and potentially damning, errors surface when the two are not carefully distinguished.”

Article Roundup: Helpful Reads

philipmcduffie Leave a comment

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.”