When you look at someone who needs Jesus in his or her life, do you think, “Never!” or “Not Yet!”?  The answer to this question will determine your thoughts and theological foundations about evangelism and why Jesus gave his life for the sins of the world. Many Christians hoard their relationship with Jesus.  We often [...]

Ten Truths about Spiritual Transformation Spiritual Transformation… #1 Is an expected, non optional requirement of all Christ Followers. #2 Is primarily a process, not an event. #3 Is God’s work, but requires my participation. #4 Involves those practices, experiences, and relationships that help me live intimately with Christ and walk as if he were in [...]

Name the issue in the life of a church and I will say, “That’s a discipleship issue.”  Why?  Because as Dallas Willard states, “Discipleship is the process of Christian character development.”  It is the journey of becoming more like Jesus Christ and less like who or what you want to be and do.  When there [...]

Have you ever experienced a season in life when God seemed to be silent?  In my imagination, one of the times this must have been a common feeling the disciples had was soon after Jesus’ crucifixion.  Even after his resurrection on Easter morning, feelings of wonderment and disillusionment might have filled the majority of the [...]

I have a confession to make.  Sometimes I focus way too much on the destination or outcome of something and do not take time to enjoy the journey.  Why?  There is a lot to accomplish and little time to spare.  Coupled with this reality is that I tend to be a results kind of guy.  [...]

 καλέω  (kaleō), the biblical word often used in scriptures means “call,” is no ordinary call. This call is special. It’s the call that appealed to Moses through a burning bush. It’s the call that beaconed Samuel late at night. It’s a call that the Apostle Paul would refer to over 29 times in the New [...]

There’s no doubt that youth ministers are really passionate about the next generation. They eat, sleep, drink, and pray it. However, far too often they find themselves severely under-supported and overwhelmed. Bottom line, youth ministers are under extreme pressure to balance their lives and ministry. The expectations that are placed on youth ministers create one [...]

The Parable of the Sower should be called the Parable of the Seed.  The story can be found in three of the synoptic Gospels, including Mark 4:3-9.  In this story, a sower throws seeds on a path, on rocky ground, and among thorns.  In all three places, the seed was lost.  When the seed fell [...]

Narcissism and self-centeredness rules the day.  It doesn’t take long to realize that people are very interested in themselves.  Generosity is lacking in many forums today including the roadway, the hallway, and doing things the Facebook way.  It is natural for us to look out for self.  Yet, the Gospel way is to focus on [...]

Phillip Gray is the Senior Pastor at Oak Ridge Wesleyan Church in Largo, Florida. He serves as the District Director of Spiritual Formation, District Secretary, and teaches in the Florida District Ministerial Institute. Spiritual Formation to some may be an anomaly of what we have always believed discipleship to be. However, these two distinctive are [...]