Church Blog

The Irish philosopher, George William Russell, once said “By intensity of hatred nations create in themselves the characters they imagine in their enemies.” He recognized the ironic tendency in nations to adopt, over time, the characteristics of their adversaries which they focused all their energy on avoiding. Interestingly, that phenomenon often proves true in individuals as well. One who consumes himself with the determination to not become like his parent will often, unintentionally, become like that parent. Why is that?…

The Southwest church of Christ will host its annual Arise! Workshop February 27 – March 2, 2025. This workshop will have something for everyone, and you will benefit from attending. In addition to the great lessons and quality hospitality, Arise! affords an opportunity to get more involved with Southwest School of Bible Studies. Alumni: If you are a SWSBS alumni, you can expect to see many familiar faces. Members of SW, classmates, old friends, and teachers will all be at…

It was after hearing a sermon from 1 Peter 1:16 (Be holy, for I am holy) that William Longstaff sat down and wrote the words to the popular hymn, “Take Time to be Holy.” Perhaps the best advice anyone can offer in the year 2025 is simply – take time to be holy. The writer of Hebrews reminds us of its importance, “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord,” (Heb. 12:14). Is…

Just as it is the case every January, the new year brings many resolutions. Another year has passed and because of the new opportunity set before us, it is time to make some changes. More than likely we have all been there before. As January 1st approaches, we resolve in our minds that there are gym memberships to buy, there are diets to apply, and there are hobbies we want to try. There is something about the new year that…

When Joshua addressed the nation, he heavily implied that a strong nation begins with the home (Josh. 24:15). Many of the societal issues today can be attributed to the deterioration of the home, shining a light on its importance. God established the home in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 1:27-28), and it has proven to the foundational pillar of society. The importance of godly homes has not diminished, and is as necessary today as it has ever been. An adherence…

The churches of Christ in America are on a steady decline. A recent projection from a Christian University revealed that we will lose 70% of our congregations and members by 2049. If you carry the numbers even further, by 2069, there will be almost no visible traces left of the Church in America. Those who seek RATIONALIZATION minimize our losses by pointing to similar declines among our denominational friends. Those who seek EXPLANATION (should we dare say excuses) cite increased…

The dawn of a new year provides a prime opportunity for Christians to take inventory of their spiritual health and create new and improved patterns for the future. Only such diligence will ensure greater growth and stronger faith while sojourning through life (2 Pet. 3:18). However, although many saints desire a closer relationship with God and a deeper understanding of His will, few have a specific plan to achieve this objective. Some will dedicate a portion of their day to…

An organization without capable leadership is like a ship without a rudder. It drifts along with the wind, headed to nowhere and destined for disaster. The same could be said about a nation, a family, and yes, even a congregation of God’s people. In time past Western Culture was led by figures like Churchill, Thatcher, Washington, and Lincoln. But tenacity, courage, and vision like theirs is difficult to find in the halls of government now, and where have we arrived?…