One evening, after a day full of preaching to crowds, Jesus said to His disciples, “Let’s cross over to the other side of the lake” (Mark 4:35). Along the journey, a ferocious storm picked up and started swamping all the boats. The disciples in the boat with Jesus started to get panicky—it must have been … More The Other Side of the Lake
One of those mind-bending questions that has plagued mankind for millennia is, “What am I here for? Do I have a purpose?” Surely life, especially for those of us who are followers of Jesus, must be more than clocking in and out of work, paying taxes, and binge watching The Office. Jesus knew His purpose. He … More Jesus’ Mission Statement
Hey, friends— this piece has been a long time coming. I’m excited to share with you about what the Bible has to say about the baptism in the Holy Spirit, an experience that Jesus deeply and ardently desires for His people to have. Every so often I really enjoy writing a more academic and extensive … More Baptism in the Holy Spirit
The churches I have been part of are each a blend of old and young folks—as every family should be. The gathering of believers should in fact reflect a demographic of passionate twenty-somethings, loving grandfatherly types, playful toddlers, young newlyweds, empty-nesters… We all need each other! I’ve spent considerable time thinking about and studying church revitalization (resurrecting dying … More Leading Worship: Old and Young (or, Hymns vs. Contemporary Worship)
Hey, gang! I have been leading worship for many, many moons, and have been a worship pastor for nearly a decade now—so studying the concept of worship, facilitating congregational worship, investing into other worshipers, keeping up with musical worship trends, and teaching on worship are all elements that are close to my heart. But if … More Leading Worship: Crafting a Song Set
Joshua Watts 