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Showing posts from October, 2018

Why Johnny Can't Read

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I have a theory.  And I think I’m right.  The Scriptures declare that Satan is a master strategist:  “In order that Satan might not outwit us, for we are not unaware of his schemes”   (2 Corinthians 2:11).   Another translation says, “We are not ignorant of his devices.”  However, I’m not sure about that.  I think we as a church culture have been ignorant or at least lured into a subtle sleep.   And it has to do with Johnny not being able to read.   Let me explain. In 1955 best-selling author, Rudolf Flesch, wrote a book entitled, “Why Johnny Can’t Read.”   This book attacked the discontinuance of phonics to teach children to read.   Later TIME Magazine would ask the same question when reading levels continued to substantially decline across the country.   In 1983 Flesch wrote the sequel, “Why Johnny Still Can’t Read,” continuing his campaign to reform reading in America. Over the years I’ve heard Christian leaders say, “...

Single or Single Again?

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Are you single? Are you single again? Then this blog post is for you! Many times (most of the time) individuals who fit within one or both categories above feel like fifth wheels in the church.   They seem to have no place among married couples and even families in general.   It’s not that they’re unwelcome, but what they share in common is next to nothing! Singles often feel left out and at best awkward in social settings.   Our culture inadvertently stigmatizes them.   Some churches try to address the needs of singles by forming singles groups.   Who are we kidding?   These groups can and do become places where singles meet rejection when dating opportunities are elevated above supposed fellowship.    I feel sorry for them, and I think I have a solution. Whether you’ve never been married, or you’ve been married and divorced, or you’re widowed, God has an on-going plan for your life.   Understand this:   It is absolutely true...

Sunday Morning--Wake Up!

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I understand we cannot live in the past.  And I understand that most everything changes over time.  And I believe that a lot of change is both necessary and for the best.  However, when it comes to Sunday morning in America, I have a grave concern. Not too many years back our weekly “Christian” schedule included: 1.   Sunday School 2.   Morning Worship 3.   Evening Worship 4.   Wednesday Service 5.   Revival Services, and 6.     Other church events For many believers church life was their social life.   The two intermingled.   Of course, not all Christians attended all the above opportunities, but my point is these opportunities typically were held in high esteem by both culture and the Church. As the years passed, culture gradually stole affections from the local church.   Do you remember the “Blue Laws” of yesteryear, when most businesses were closed on Sundays to allow their employees and “John Q. Public” ti...