"...culture doesn't seem to matter."

Matt Schmucker, writing 4,000 miles from home, makes this observation:

...culture doesn't seem to matter. It appears churches that are reading their bibles, who intend to live out the instruction faithfully, universally run into the same questions.

9Marks Journal

9Marks just released their latest e-journal. Jonathan Leeman's introduction is well-worth reading (and quite convicting). Several pastors combined to offer "30 Practical Ways for Pastors to Love Their Wives & Families." (I'm going to print off and reread that one.) And, a very special woman was part of the "Pastors' Wives' Forum."

Free Audio Available for 9Marks Workshop at The Northbrook Conference

Northbrook Baptist Church recently hosted a 9Marks Workshop, led by Matt Schmucker and Jonathan Leeman of 9Marks.

I can honestly say that it was one of the best and most worthwhile events that I have attended as a pastor. I would highly recommend visiting the schedule page on their website and planning to attend a 9Marks Workshop.

9Marks has graciously allowed us to post the audio from the six sessions online, for you to listen to for free. Enjoy attending a "virtual-workshop" here:

• Session 1 - What We Want: For the Church to Display the Gospel
• Session 2 - What We Do Not Want: To Think We Are Wiser Than God
• Session 3 - How to Build: Preaching and Biblical Theology
• Session 4 - How to Build: Conversion and Evangelism
• Session 5 - How to Enjoy Life Together: Membership and Discipline
• Session 6 - How to Enjoy Life Together: Leadership

May the Lord be glorified in the health of His church!

9Marks Workshop in Cedar Rapids

There is still time to register for the 9Marks workshop to be held at Northbrook Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids, October 8-9.

Encourage your pastor to attend!

Mark Dever: "...a compelling, biblical, exciting and faithful series of presentations!"

"Matt Schmucker and Jonathan Leeman have done a wonderful job taking their years of experience, theological training and relationships with many pastors, combining it with the 9Marks material and giving us a compelling, biblical, exciting and faithful series of presentations! I look forward to seeing how the Lord will use them in this."

Mark Dever, pastor, author 9 Marks of a Healthy Church

A Worthwhile Conference: Gospel Growth vs. Church Growth

I can't make this conference, but it looks worthwhile. Those looking to visit D.C. should consider scheduling a visit around this:

Gospel Growth vs. Church Growth

October 30-November 1, 2007

Capitol Hill Baptist Church, Washington, D.C.

Speakers:

• Phillip Jensen
• Mark Dever
• Tony Payne