During the global pandemic of 2020, many churches found themselves looking online to reach their congregations and continue to worship together in some form. There were several different kinds of responses. Some churches pre-recorded part or all of their services and shared them online. Others moved their services outdoors. Still others pursued streaming services live.
Continue readingI indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. (Matt 3:11; NKJV)
Water baptism is an ancient and enduring Christian tradition. Through the centuries, churches have come to understand and practice baptism differently, sometimes breaking fellowship over it. What is baptism? What does the Bible say about baptism? Any biblical doctrine of baptism must begin by answering these questions. Let’s dig in.
Continue readingGo therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you. (Matthew 28:19–20; NKJV)
Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble. (James 1:27)
I was recently in a conversation when I encountered the statement, “$5000 is about right for a church camera.” Context is key, so I asked for clarification. The response I received included the sentiment that maybe some churches should go back to audio recordings of sermons and playlists of songs instead of live-streaming or video recording a lower quality product.
Continue readingThen those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers... praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved. (Acts 2:41–42, 47; NKJV)
The word ‘church’ receives mixed reactions in modern America. Historically, the church has largely been a force for social good, founding many of the social institutions we take for granted today (including education and healthcare). But in modern America, the church is often portrayed as an outdated institution holding society back from social progress. What is the church? What are her primary religious and social purposes? Let’s dig in.
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Tim Northup 
