Church – eager for [truth]

Teaching The Church Through Musical Worship

on August 3, 2021August 9, 2021 By Brad Bates

Music is a powerful thing. Words are a powerful thing. Words and music put together are a powerful thing. When we think about it, we consume words in all sorts of forms...but primarily in the written form, spoken form, and musical form.

10 Good (Even Great) Things Your Church Has or Does that is NOT an Indicator of the Health of Your Local Church Body

on July 5, 2021July 5, 2021 By Brad Bates

Bible studiesLarge Sunday gathering attendanceA praise team (or a choir)Lots of volunteersLots of well attended eventsLarge budgetsA facilityLots of programs (youth, children, music, etc.)A really cool websiteA quality livestream of your Sunday gatherings When you take a look at this list, you will find that most of these things are good, and some of them [...]

I Pledge Allegiance – But To Who Exactly?

on June 30, 2021July 3, 2021 By Brad Bates

Certainly, everywhere across America Christians and non-Christians alike will be celebrating on that day the freedom we gained from an oppressive king and government - which is certainly something worth celebrating. But, over the last few years I have noticed an unhealthy trend in the Church toward lifting up their political party loyalty and our nation (the United States of America) above and beyond our loyalty to Jesus and the Kingdom which He is building. And so while I'm excited to celebrate on the Fourth on Sunday, I'm a little hesitant and concerned.

An Open Letter to the LGBTQ+ Community, From a Christian

on June 3, 2021June 3, 2021 By Brad Bates

We have failed at showing you kindness and compassion even if we disagree with you about sexuality.

Dr. King, I Have a Dream Too!

on February 2, 2021February 2, 2021 By Brad Bates

It's Black History Month...and I am reminded of the "I have a dream" speech that Dr. King gave as he fought for the rights of the community he represented...the black community. His words were simple and powerful...and, like a sword, they pierced to the very soul and core of those who heard his words. Even [...]