The Shaping Power of Friendships (Part 3 of 4)

When it comes to friendship, Proverbs says a true friend sticks with us through adversity. Since that’s true, we may be tempted to think a true friend always makes life easier and smoother for us.  But that’s not the case.  Here’s a second (and surprising) mark of a true friend.

The Shaping Power of Friendships (Part 2 of 4)

Since our friends shape up in deep and lasting ways, we must choose them wisely.  This raises the question: “What does a true friend look like?”  Proverbs answers this question by identifying two memorable marks of a true friend.  In this post, we'll focus on the first mark.

The Shaping Power of Friendships (Part 1 of 4)

“Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future.”  This statement echoes an important theme in the book of Proverbs. The theme of the shaping power of friendships. In this series of four posts, I want to explore the impact of our friendships and how to find (and be) a true friend.

Praise and Prayer Update (November 13, 2025)

I want to thank those of you who prayed for us over the past few weeks of ministry. We sensed and saw wonderful answers to your prayers. The courses we are teaching at Heritage have continued to be an encouragement…

What Does a Faithful Pastor Look Like?

Ever wonder what a faithful pastor looks like? I certainly did when I began serving as a pastor. After studying the Pastoral Epistles (1 & 2 TImothy and Titus), I came up with a simple sketch to picture a faithful pastor.

Why Sermon Manuscripts Make Better Sermons (Part 1)

After preaching for almost 40 years, I still write a manuscript for every sermon. I get the fact that not everyone is sold on writing out a manuscript for their messages. So let me offer seven reasons why manuscripting is worth the time and effort.

Stan Fowler:  Scholar, Servant, Singer.

One week ago, on Tuesday, August 26th, Dr. Stan Fowler, long-time theology professor at Heritage Theological Seminary, graduated from earth to heaven. I had the privilege of working with Stan during my years at Heritage.  Stan was a “scholar in…

Summer Tuesdays with Ezra (Chapter 10)

Ezra 10 Chapter 10 continues the narrative, picking up what happened as Ezra prays a prayer of deep contrition and confession.  As he was “weeping and casting himself down before the house of God”, a great assembly of Jews—men, women,…