Author Archives: Chaplainmike

Thom Rainer on Megachurch Trends

The churches in the U.S. that get the most public attention are the megachurches. Dr. Thom Rainer, the president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources (SBC), is a leader in a denomination that has always put the spotlight on large and growing congregations. In a recent article, Rainer listed seven trends he sees in megachurchesContinue reading “Thom Rainer on Megachurch Trends”

Counting the Commandments

Those of you who have experience in various Christian traditions may have observed that there are different ways of numbering the “Ten Commandments.” This is not a mere academic issue of interpretation. It can be shown that the different schemes can lead to some significant ways of understanding and living out the faith. In myContinue reading “Counting the Commandments”

Luther’s Morning and Evening Prayers

In the Small Catechism, Martin Luther wrote Morning and Evening Prayers for families to say each day. I find them attractive in their simplicity and devotion. Perhaps you will find them useful in your own conversational relationship with God and in your family. * * * Morning Prayer In the morning, when you rise, you shallContinue reading “Luther’s Morning and Evening Prayers”

Psunday Psalms: Morning and Evening

Psunday Psalms Devotional Thoughts on the Psalms * * * Each morning you listen     to my prayer, as I bring my requests to you     and wait for your reply. (Psalm 5:3, CEB) I can lie down     and sleep soundly     because you, Lord,     will keep me safe. (Psalm 4:8, CEB) * * * The first pieces in theContinue reading “Psunday Psalms: Morning and Evening”

iMonk Classic: How I Interpret the Bible

Note from CM: This is an excerpt from Michael Spencer’s essay, “A Conversation in God’s Kitchen.” Folks, don’t rush through this one. Ponder it. Print it off and carry a copy of it in your Bible to remind you what the Book is all about and what you should be looking for as you readContinue reading “iMonk Classic: How I Interpret the Bible”