Growth Points 64: Are We Making Disciples or Developing Superficial Converts?
Jesus told us in John 15:16 that He has ordained us—set us apart for a purpose—to bring forth fruit that remains. As pastors and Christian leaders, it’s fair that we occasionally ask ourselves, “Are we making disciples here? Or are we simply developing superficial...
3 Ways the Church Can Help the Christian Home
There’s no question about it: the home is under attack today. And I’m not just talking about subtle attacks that cautiously undermine biblical values. I’m talking about a full on, vicious, satanic attack that is shaking the very definition of the family itself. How...
Recommended Reading—New Resources from Striving Together Publications
Over the past few weeks, Striving Together Publications has released several new resources that we believe will be tremendously helpful for Christians and local church ministry. The resources below will be featured at Spiritual Leadership Conference this week, but for...
3 Views from 29 Years: A Message to Lancaster Baptist Church and Fellow Pastors
Today we celebrate twenty-nine years of ministry at Lancaster Baptist Church. (Wow, that’s hard to believe!) It’s been a journey of faith, growth, and, in general, complete awe at God’s greatness. He’s done more than we ever dreamed He would, and we give Him glory for...
Help for Building Local Churches via Live Stream and Smart Phones
There are some things you can’t learn via YouTube videos. Significant construction would be one of those. I mean, you could probably find a YouTube video on building a dog house, but beyond that, I’m not sure your best place for construction instruction is going to be...
5 Ways to Get More out of Any Conference
The best conferences have significant levels of preparation invested ahead of time by those hosting the conference. From the speakers to facilities to schedules to a million other areas of detail, a well-planned and thoroughly-prepared conference will be more...
Are You Building or Maintaining? A Twenty-Point Comparison
One of the most dangerous aspects of success in any work of God is that it would lead to complacency. The truth is, it is easier to rejoice in a victory of the past and simply maintain going forward than it is to take continual faith-filled risks and build going...
What If Your Saw Was 10 Percent Sharper?
You’ve heard the famous quote attributed to Abraham Lincoln: “Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” Time and life management experts have likewise pointed out the value of “sharpening the saw” for maximum effect in...
More than a Cliché: How Godly Leaders Remain Strong in the Work of the Lord
There are some phrases we’ve turned into something like cliché prayers. That is, we say them without really giving thought to the specifics of what we’re asking or the practical ramifications of what they may entail. “Bless all the missionaries” is a good for...
The Resilient Life
Overcome the Crises and Anxieties of Life through Christ
Order Now
Pastor Paul Chappell
Dr. Paul Chappell is the senior pastor of the Lancaster Baptist Church and president of West Coast Baptist College in Lancaster, California. His biblical vision has led the church to become one of the most dynamic independent Baptist churches in the nation. He has been married to his wife, Terrie, for over forty years and is the father of four married children all serving in Christian ministry.
