“Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, brown rice, white pastas and most baked goods are one of the major culprits behind America’s weight and sickness epidemic. When refined carbohydrates enter your body they are converted directly to sugar, which is why they are responsible for so many obesity-related diseases. So remember, ‘If it’s white, don’t bite.’” – Nelson Searcy, Steve Reynolds … Read More
Follow Your Lord (Part 1 of 3)
The first commitment of being a pastor is to follow your Lord — to make your communion with Him more important than anything else in your life. I can hear you pushing back already. You’re probably thinking, Come on, this is elementary. I’m a pastor. Of course I’m following the Lord. Let me challenge you to leave the surface level and … Read More
Merry Christmas from Nelson and the CLI Elves!
OK, our graphic designer, Joey, had a bit of fun with this one – ha! Hope this brings a smile to your face as the team and I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas! I am grateful to be part of your ministry and I look forward to serving you for many years in the future. As … Read More
Sunday Scripture: The Light of the World
“Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, ‘I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.’” – John, 8:12 (NLT)
Donald McGavran on the Purpose of Evangelism
“Christian mission is bringing people to repent of their sins, accept Jesus Christ as Savior, belong to His Body the Church, do as He commands, go out and spread the Good News, and multiply churches.” -Donald McGavran, father of the Modern-Day Church Growth Movement
Fusion Fridays: Caring About the Numbers
“I’m sure you know how the critics think: To those of us who advocate healthy, growing churches, it’s all about the numbers, right? Well, the critics are right to an extent: we do care about numbers. Why? Because every number represents a life. In a properly facilitated assimilation system, the number of new members you have is a reflection of … Read More
2 Things That are Better Than a Multivitamin (Thursdays are for Health)
“Many people think that if they take a multivitamin, they don’t need to eat their fruits and vegetables. While vitamins are an important part of a healthy lifestyle, no vitamin can duplicate the unique nutrient composition found in whole fruits and vegetables that work in the body to minimize inflammation, destroy harmful cells and bolster health. Focus your energy on nutrient-rich foods, … Read More
The Most Important Part of Your Sermon
Today’s guest post comes to us from Erik Reed for Lifeway.com. “The entire sermon is important!” I know some of you had that instinctual reaction to the title of this article. I agree. The entire sermon is important. Each part is connected to the others and is a part of a greater whole. I am on board with you. But I … Read More
Sunday Scripture: Live Wisely
“So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.” – Ephesians 5:15-17 (NLT)
Donald McGavran on Removing Barriers to Salvation
“Every person wants to become a Christian without crossing racial, linguistic, or cultural barriers.“ -Donald McGavran, father of the Modern-Day Church Growth Movement