by Dr. Paul Chappell | Aug 20, 2011 | Christian Life, Ministry Leadership
Without hesitation, I can say that God has done His greatest works in my life through seasons of adversity. Sometimes, however, in moments of introspection we wonder, Why all the suffering? I truly believe that God does far more through suffering than we see at first...
by Dr. Paul Chappell | Aug 11, 2011 | Ministry Leadership
One of the greatest enemies to a spirit of grace in a church is criticism—from within or without. Our carnal nature is easily drawn into defending and taking sides, but doing so breeds a spirit of defensiveness and cynicism within a church. As a young pastor, I...
by Dr. Paul Chappell | Aug 8, 2011 | Christian Life, Ministry Leadership
Constructive criticism is an incredible asset. Proverbs 27:6 says, “Faithful are the wounds of a friend….” Some of the most helpful advice and counsel I have ever received has come in the form of such “wounds.” Yet, destructive criticism can be incredibly damaging to...
by Dr. Paul Chappell | Jul 29, 2011 | Ministry Leadership
The United Methodist Church strayed many years ago from the fundamentals of the faith and has long been ecumenical in affiliations. But a recent tragedy (reported in the Los Angeles Times) is a $40 million gift designated and being used by a United Methodist seminary...
by Dr. Paul Chappell | Jul 19, 2011 | Christian Life, Ministry Leadership, Ministry News
Over the past few weeks, as we’ve celebrated our church’s 25th anniversary, a few people have asked me, “What will the next twenty-five years be like?” I think they understand our philosophy of ministry enough to know that the basics—biblical preaching, soulwinning,...
by Dr. Paul Chappell | Jul 14, 2011 | Christian Life, Ministry Leadership, Ministry News
Spiritual Leadership Conference has already held so many blessings. My heart has been stirred through the preaching, sharpened through the fellowship, and touched through the testimonies of others. But the watershed moment for me happened yesterday afternoon when I...