Over the past fifty years, church attendance in the U.S. has declined significantly, especially since the 1990s. While recent data indicates a potential stabilization, younger generations show increased interest in attending. Factors driving this change include cultural shifts and the rise of the religiously unaffiliated. The future remains uncertain as churches adapt to new social dynamics.
Tag Archives: christianity
The Will of God Revealed at Christmas
This Christmas season, the focus is on the birth of Jesus Christ, embodying God’s will for mercy and salvation. The reflections emphasize the significance of His coming, as foretold by prophets, and highlight the purpose of Jesus’ life to fulfill the Father’s will. Celebrating this gift reminds us to align with God’s will for eternal life.
Holding Fast to God’s Design: My Thoughts on Gender and Sexuality in a Changing World
Beloved in Christ, As I ponder the times in which we live, I find myself grieved by how far the world has strayed from the clear teaching of God’s Word on matters of gender and human sexuality. In this age, many declare that a person may define their own identity, that gender is fluid, andContinue reading “Holding Fast to God’s Design: My Thoughts on Gender and Sexuality in a Changing World”
Revelation 13 and the Rise of Artificial Intelligence
“What if Revelation’s mysterious ‘image of the beast’ wasn’t just ancient symbolism, but a chilling preview of artificial intelligence? Explore how scripture’s prophecy of a statue coming to life resonates with today’s robotics and AI revolution. Read now and discover faith, technology, and future colliding.”
“I Have Come”: Exploring Jesus’ Mission in the New Testament
The Christmas season reminds us of God’s immense love through the gift of His Son, emphasizing hope, peace, and salvation. While celebrating, we should remember Jesus’ mission as expressed in the New Testament, which includes fulfilling the law, serving others, and offering abundant life, inviting us to embrace His purpose fully.
Obadiah: A One-Chapter Prophecy
The Book of Obadiah, the shortest prophetic text in the Hebrew Bible, focuses on God’s judgment against Edom for their betrayal during Jerusalem’s fall. It emphasizes themes of pride, divine justice, and hope for Israel’s restoration. Obadiah’s message highlights the consequences of cruelty, while reassuring that God’s kingdom will ultimately prevail.
Amos the Shepherd-Prophet
Amos, a shepherd from Judah, was called by God to deliver a message of judgment to Israel during Jeroboam II’s reign, highlighting social injustices despite prosperity. Key themes include true worship versus hypocrisy, divine accountability, and hope for restoration. The book emphasizes justice and compassion as essential components of faith.
The Prophet Joel: A Call to Repentance and Renewal
The Book of Joel, though brief, delivers a profound message during Judah’s locust plague, symbolizing divine judgment and calling for repentance. Joel emphasizes inward transformation over outward rituals and introduces the Day of the Lord, highlighting hope for the repentant. His prophecy of God’s Spirit poured out unites believers across generations.
Malachi: Returning Wholeheartedly to God
Malachi, the last Minor Prophet, challenges Israel to offer wholehearted devotion rather than empty rituals. He calls for continual repentance and emphasizes that withholding from God is akin to robbery. Malachi highlights God’s refining process as purifying love, urging believers to return to sincere worship and live generously, preparing for greater things ahead.
Lessons from the Minor Prophets: A Personal Journey
The Minor Prophets, often overlooked, offer profound insights about God’s nature. Through Hosea, we learn of His unwavering love; Jonah emphasizes obedience and compassion; Micah highlights justice and humility; Habakkuk shows faith amid uncertainty; Malachi calls for wholehearted devotion. These teachings remain relevant today, shaping personal faith journeys.
Grow Stronger Roots 