The Shepherd's Table

3/19/2023

The Mystery Form Of The Kingdom - Part 2

The Parable of the Sower
Matt. 13:3-24

Interpreting Parables

The Greek word translated parable is a combination of two words that mean alongside and throw. In a parable, two things are thrown alongside of each other for comparison or contrast (Matt. 13:18; 24; 31; 33; 36; 53).

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3/19/2023

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The Mystery Form Of The Kingdom - Part 1

Introduction

Although the parables of Matthew 13 are somewhat difficult to understand they are our compass to guide us through the days in which we live. Specifically, what do they teach? How do they apply? To answer these questions, we must understand the background leading up to chapter 13. The major theme of the book of Matthew is Jesus Christ presented as King. The King and kingdom are the predominant ideas in the book. It is around these two key concepts that we must formulate our thinking.

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3/17/2023

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Newsletter March 2023

A news brief in the March 2023 issue of Christianity Today magazine reports that the number of seminary students pursuing a Master of Divinity degree has declined by nine percent in the last five years. The Master of Divinity degree has long been the standard degree for those entering the pastoral ministry and remains a qualification for many churches looking for a pastor.

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2/19/2023

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What Sins Are Subject To Church Discipline?

There are three primary passages in the New Testament that provide instruction about church discipline. They are Matt. 18:15-22, 1 Cor. 5:1-13 and 2 Thess. 3:6-15.

Care must be taken not to add or subtract from what the Word of God says in these three passages based on preconceived ideas, tradition, or faulty interpretation.

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2/15/2023

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Crafting A Shorter Sermon

Guest Blogger Dr. Michael Richardson

It is important that the preacher pay attention to the non-verbal’s of his audience.

If the audience begins to show that unblinking “cow look” stare in their eyes, it is time to quit.
Richard Westfall, a wonderful preacher, who only preaches for about 30 minutes jokingly says that when his congregation begins to sit at a 45-degree angle, he decides to quit!

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2/14/2023

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Eleven Commandments For Long-Winded Preachers

11 Commandments For Long-Winded Preachers

Guest Blogger Dr. Michael Richardson

I want to credit Colin Adams for this unique title, but the ideas are mine.

1. Thou shalt not enter the pulpit unprepared:

Unprepared preachers basically just fill their time.
They substitute showmanship for substance.
They run up and down the isles spitting, sputtering, shouting, and making the congregation wonder if they have had their rabies shot.

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12/5/2022

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Newsletter December 2022

Having been a pastor for over forty years, I have experienced firsthand the challenges and trials of pastoral ministry. Pastors desperately need encouragement. Therefore, I have endeavored to encourage and counsel other pastors over the years.

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