Ministry Matters: Videos

Prayer Service for Oklahoma Tornado Victims

Tue, 21 May 2013 17:51:00 GMT

By Robert Spain

Bishop Robert Spain spoke this morning at UMPH's prayer service for the Oklahoma tornado victims.

Naming Jacob: The Power of Words

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:23:00 GMT

By Jessica LaGrone

Words are powerful, and we should be mindful of that when we speak them over our friends, our family, and especially our children. This clip is from Jessica Lagrone's teaching session on Jacob from Namesake, an exciting new Bible study from Abingdon Women.

Who You Are in the Heavenly Realm (Converge Episode 4)

Thu, 16 May 2013 13:22:00 GMT

By Shane Raynor

Grace Biskie, David Dorn, and Matt O'Reilly join Shane Raynor to discuss Ephesians 2, grace, access to God, the blood of Christ and more.

Are You a Hypocrite?

Mon, 13 May 2013 15:50:00 GMT

By David Dorn

Are you what Jesus defines as a hypocrite? You may be surprised by the answer when you introspect. Now there is a difference between acts of hypocrisy and being a hypocrite. Neither are good, but one involves singular acts; the other involves a lifestyle.

Small Group Questions

What do you think about when you hear the word "hypocrite?"

Can you think of examples of the difference between hypocritical actions and being a hypocrite?

What do you think of hypocrites in the church?

Can you explain why Jesus puts such an emphasis on what one thinks about and meditates on?

Do you think you could incorporate this prayer into your daily life? "Lord Jesus, Son of the Living God, have mercy on me, a sinner."

Question of the Day

Check yourself before you wreck yourself. Are you a hypocrite?

WEBSITE - http://preposterousproject.org/
TWITTER - http://twitter.com/#!/iampreposterous
FACEBOOK - http://www.facebook.com/preposterousproject

Why Is Jackie Robinson Important?

Sun, 12 May 2013 15:40:00 GMT

By Clay Morgan

The movie 42 tells the story of Jackie Robinson and Branch Rickey of the Brooklyn Dodgers who teamed up to integrate Major League Baseball in 1947. Until that time only white ballplayers could play.

This video explains why an athlete like Jackie transcended a game to impact American society and help kick off the modern civil rights movement.

In my opinion, 42 is a very good movie, a well told story about a part of U.S. history that holds great significance.

Clay Morgan is the author of Undead by Abingdon Press. Buy a copy and be sure to check out his YouTube channel usahistoryguy.

John Wesley and Christian Orthodoxy

Wed, 08 May 2013 16:20:00 GMT

By Laurence Wood

Dr. Laurence Wood discusses whether or not orthodoxy was important to John Wesley and what this consisted of for him.

Source: Seedbed @ Asbury Theological Seminary

Mary Magdalene (Converge Episode 3)

Wed, 08 May 2013 02:43:00 GMT

By Shane Raynor

Was Mary Magdalene really a prostitute or does she owe her bad reputation to a 6th century Pope? Was she the first apostle? Jessica Kelley, Curtis Zackery, and Eric Van Meter join Shane Raynor to discuss these questions and more.

The Converge Podcast is also available at iTunes, or you can subscribe with any RSS reader or podcatcher.

Prototype

Wed, 01 May 2013 21:47:00 GMT

By Jonathan Martin

"Jonathan presents riveting truth about our identity in Christ in a way that honestly grapples with the intrinsic tensions and mind-boggling implications of the gospel. And he does it while maintaining a sensitive tone in a conversational atmosphere."
—Steven Furtick, pastor of Elevation Church (from the Forward)

“I cannot recommend this book highly enough.” —Stanley Hauerwas, Gilbert T. Rowe Professor of Theological Ethics, Duke University; named “America’s best theologian” by Time magazine

“Jonathan Martin brings a fresh, clear, honest, unbiased approach to ministry that propels you to a new dimension! He has the ability to take all that he has retained in his few years and give us Kingdom food for life. His teachings have encouraged me.” —John P. Kee, Pastor and gospel artist

“Every page showed me new and fresh perspectives on the love of the Father, the person of Jesus, and the world of the Spirit. When I turned the last page, I knew I loved Christ more than when I started.” —Clayton King, president, Crossroads Ministries; teaching pastor, NewSpring Church

Watch the book trailer, download and read the first chapter Identity, or purchase the book.

The Woman at the Well (Converge Episode 2)

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 15:16:00 GMT

By Shane Raynor

Grace Biskie, Adam Thomas, Joseph Yoo, and Clifton Stringer join Shane Raynor to discuss the account of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4.

The Converge Podcast is also available at iTunes, or you can subscribe with any RSS reader or podcatcher.

The Unforgivable Sin

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 14:08:00 GMT

By David Dorn

Jesus announces there is one unforgivable sin. What is it and how does one commit it? The people who know about it often think they've committed it, but the people who've committed it often know nothing about it. The unforgivable sin lies in rejecting the Holy Spirit moving you to accept Jesus as your Savior. But what about the people who never get a chance to accept or reject the Holy Spirit? Check out this free Bible Study on Matthew 12:31-32.

Small Group Questions

Have you ever heard of the "Unforgivable Sin" before? If so, explain what you heard.
God cannot forgive you if you don't accept the Holy Spirit moving you to accept Jesus as your Savior. Why?
The apple tree and the manchineel tree look very similar, but produce two different kinds of fruit. Explain the spiritual principle present here.
Exclusivism. Pluralism. Inclusivism. Which one of these ideas do you subscribe to?
"God doesn't look at things like humans do. Humans see only what is visible to the eyes, but the LORD sees into the heart." - 1 Samuel 16:7 What do you think this means for you?

Question of the Day

Your actions speak volumes about what you believe. What do your actions say about you? Do your actions reflect God's work in your life or do your actions scream out that you have rejected the Holy Spirit?

WEBSITE - http://preposterousproject.org/
TWITTER - http://twitter.com/#!/iampreposterous
FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/preposterous

Deborah (Converge Episode 1)

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 04:01:00 GMT

By Shane Raynor

David Dorn and Clay Morgan join Shane Raynor to discuss Judges 4, which tells the story of Deborah, Barak, and Jael. Also check out Chapter 1 in James A. Harnish's Women of the Bible, the first book in the Converge Bible Study series from Abingdon Press.

The Converge Podcast is also available at iTunes, or you can subscribe with any RSS reader or podcatcher.

Does Church Make You a Christian?

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 18:53:00 GMT

By David Dorn

Do you have to go to church to be a Christian? Yes and no. You don’t have to go to church to be saved, but to really become a disciple of Jesus, it necessitates being in community with other disciples of Jesus. You see, we are invited to become apart of a community, the Church. When we are baptized, we are welcomed into this Body of Christ, and the body of Christ is filled with people: broken people, prejudiced people, hypocritical people, backbiting people, all who are all being changed by Jesus just like you and me are. There are no perfect churches, just people through churches that God is making perfect. Won’t you be a part of one?

How to Love Like God

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 13:43:00 GMT

By David Dorn

We talk about loving people like Christ, but how do we actually go about doing this? For the full episode, click here.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6jCaV

Website - http://preposterousproject.com/
On Twitter - http://twitter.com/#!/iampreposterous
On Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/preposterous...
Music by http://opsound.org/artist/thehappymed...

The Jesus We Need

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 17:42:00 GMT

By David Dorn

Jesus isn't who they wanted, but Jesus is who they needed. When Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem, riding on a donkey, the Jewish people praised Him singing "Hosanna." "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord." "Hosanna in the highest." Yet days later, the crowds turned on Jesus. Why? Because Jesus didn't live up to their expectations. He isn't who they wanted. But he was just who they needed. Check out this free Bible Study centered on Holy Week from Matthew 21:1-17.

Small Group Questions

If you were an Israelite, what kind of a Savior would you expect? Which movie character would best describe who you were looking for in a Messiah?
Imagine you're in the crowd that has gathered for Jesus' entry into your city. Everyone is excited and chanting praises. You see Him riding in on a donkey. What would you think?
Consider this statement: "Jesus isn't who they wanted, but Jesus is who they needed." Jesus didn't come demanding Jewish freedom, rather He came demanding holiness from God's people. What do you think that means?
The religious and business leaders who felt guilty, ran from Jesus, while the lame and blind sought Jesus out. Consider the irony of that statement...
Have you ever discarded God because He wasn't acting or doing what you thought He should? Do you find yourself slipping away from God, or seeking Him out?

Not For Sale

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 15:17:00 GMT

By Christopher P. Momany

Did you know that 27 million people are enslaved today? More than were bartered during the years of the transatlantic slave trade of centuries past. Students of Adrian College in Michigan talk about why they got involved with the Not For Sale anti-trafficking campaign.

Jesus Ate with Sinners!

Sun, 10 Mar 2013 14:26:00 GMT

By David Dorn

Jesus is more concerned with the rejects who knew they needed change in their lives than those who thought they had life all figured out. Jesus goes where He is needed. Do we have the self-awareness to realize we need Him? And Jesus said, "I want mercy and not sacrifice." Do we show mercy towards other people or do we offer hollow actions to God? Do we show mercy towards other people or do we offer hollow actions to God? Check out this free Bible study on Matthew 9:9-13.

Website - http://preposterousproject.org/
On Twitter - http://twitter.com/#!/iampreposterous
On Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/preposterous...

Small Group Questions

Before watching this video, what did you think of this concept, that Jesus ate with sinners?

Jesus spent time with people who knew they needed Him, not the ones who felt like they had it all figured out. Which one would you say you are?

Why do you think the religious leaders were upset that Jesus spent time with tax collectors?

Do you think you could have dropped everything to follow Jesus like Matthew did? Do you think that was an example of extreme faith, extreme stupidity, or the Holy Spirit moving him?

In your life, what does it look like to show "mercy" more than "sacrifice"? What does sacrifice mean for you?

Question of the Day

What about God amazes you or confuses you?

Abraham Lincoln and Christianity

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 14:04:00 GMT

By Clay Morgan

Did Abraham Lincoln devote his life to Christ during his famous trip to Gettysburg? Clay talks about that and a letter he once read from private archives tucked away in the attic of Ford's Theater in Washington D.C.

To read more about Abe Lincoln's faith in Clay's book Undead check out http://claywrites.com/undead/

Jesus on Sin

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 14:19:00 GMT

By David Dorn

Sin is serious. Jesus treats it like a disease. We should too. When a group of friends brought a paralyzed man to Jesus to be healed, Jesus deemed the man’s sin condition as being the priority to fix. Is that how we treat sin in today’s world? Now we can go to extremes and be harder on ourselves than God is when it comes to sin. Martin Luther before he really understood God’s grace and forgiveness tried to beat the sin out of himself. He did not succeed. Check out this free Bible study on Matthew 9:2-7.

Music by http://opsound.org/artist/macroform/

Click here for the downloadable handout of the Small Group Questions. Episode-31-Small-Group-Questions-Handout

To download the video, click here!

Small Group Questions

How do you define “sin”?

Do you believe that this is serious, yes or no? Explain your answer.

Imagine yourself as the paralyzed man. How would you feel if Jesus had just forgave your sins and not healed your legs? Would you have been okay with it? Why?

Martin Luther went on to be a major figure in History, but for many years, he was trapped by his own misunderstanding God’s forgiveness and grace. Are you harder on yourself than God is?

Sin is a terminal disease we all have. Faith in Jesus is the only cure. Can you explain how that works?

Challenge

Acknowledge your sin. Repent of your sin. Allow God to give you the strength to be free from it. Accept God’s grace and forgiveness in your life.

Warm Bodies and the Meaning of Life

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 13:32:00 GMT

By Clay Morgan

Clay watched the awesome new movie Warm Bodies then got into character for a review. The filmmakers may not have intended to have so many strong spiritual parallels but makes some great observations about humanity, life, our longings, and what it all mean.

No actual human brains were consumed in the making of this video.

Jesus on Zombies

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 14:58:00 GMT

By David Dorn

I bet you didn't realize that Jesus talked about the living dead long before they were ever popular as zombies. With his statement, "let the dead bury their own dead" Jesus is declaring that those without faith in him are the living dead, they just don't know it. But in Jesus we can have life. Through Jesus we have a way of salvation, but he gives us a choice. Have you ever chosen him? Check out this Bible study on Matthew 18-22.

Website - http://preposterousproject.org/
On Twitter - http://twitter.com/#!/iampreposterous
On Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/preposterousproject
Music by http://opsound.org/artist/macroform/

The Undead Youth Ministry Interview

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 14:03:00 GMT

By Paul Turner

Youth ministry strategist Paul Turner interviews Abingdon Press author Clay Morgan about his book Undead.

Grace: The Means Through Which We Grow

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 16:29:29 GMT

By David Dorn

"Have you availed yourself to the means of grace this week?" John Wesley asked his followers this frequently. Why is it necessary? Because it is through the means which God has ordained, these means of grace that God imparts upon us grace in a real and tangible way. The only way we can grow in our relationship with Christ is for us to show up and allow God to show us grace.

Website - http://preposterousproject.org/
On Twitter - http://twitter.com/#!/iampreposterous
On Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/preposterousproject

Inaugural Prayer Service Sermon

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 18:20:49 GMT

By Adam Hamilton

Here's Adam Hamilton's full sermon from the Inaugural Prayer Service last Tuesday at the Washington National Cathedral.

The Way

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:05:17 GMT

By Adam Hamilton

Travel with Adam Hamilton as he retraces the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Using historical information, archaeological data, and stories of the faith, Hamilton follows in the footsteps of Jesus from his baptism to the temptations to the heart of his ministry, including the people he loved, the parables he taught, the enemies he made, and the healing he brought.

Jesus on Miracles

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 19:24:54 GMT

By David Dorn

There once was a man who was rejected by his family and outcast from society. He was doomed to never feel another person's touch again. But Jesus stepped and touched the man. After the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus came down from the mountain and began preforming miracles and healing people. Jesus healed the outcasts of society, including this man with leprosy. But Jesus didn't advertise his power, instead, he wanted people with faith to seek him out. Check out this Bible study on Matthew 8:1-17.

An Introduction to Chrysalis

Tue, 01 Jan 2013 17:47:00 GMT

By The Upper Room

Empowering youth and young adults to be the hands and feet of Christ.
For more information visit the Chrysalis website.

Lifetime Wish Fulfilled

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 21:17:09 GMT

By Ministry Matters

Emma Perrone, 97, fulfilled a dream by playing the organ at Hyde Park UMC in Tampa.

Responding to the Newtown Tragedy

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 14:24:58 GMT

By Adam Hamilton

In this message from Sunday December 16, 2012, Pastor Adam Hamilton discusses last week's tragedy in Newtown, CT, and considers how we can cope with and respond to the horrible events that happened there.

"Because of our God’s deep compassion, the dawn from heaven will break upon us, to give light to those who are sitting in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide us on the path of peace." Luke 1:78-79 CEB

Movement

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 16:04:27 GMT

By David Dorn

Movement: a Story of Obedience is about a man in Mark 10 who has to decide whether to follow Jesus to go his own way. Also hear from Gideo Achi, a pastor from Nigeria, who has had to really wrestle with being obedient to Christ in the face of severe persecution and death.
Website - http://preposterousproject.org/
On Twitter - http://twitter.com/#!/iampreposterous
On Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/preposterousproject

12 Ounce Interview with Clay Morgan

Tue, 04 Dec 2012 17:46:02 GMT

By Barry Hill

12 Ounce Interview with Clay Morgan (from The Ordained Barista)

Is God Generous?

Tue, 04 Dec 2012 15:18:19 GMT

By David Dorn

When we describe God, do we include the adjective "generous"? Has that been your experience with God? Jesus says that the Father is generous to His children, all we have to do is ask. Check out this Bible Study on Matthew 7:7-12.

Website - http://preposterousproject.org/
On Twitter - http://twitter.com/#!/iampreposterous
On Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/preposterousproject
Music by http://opsound.org/artist/macroform/

Wolves, Sharks, or Zombies?

Mon, 03 Dec 2012 20:55:19 GMT

By Clay Morgan

Taken from an episode of The StoryMen Podcast, Matt Mikalatos, JR. Forasteros and Clay Morgan are joined by guest Jason Boyett to discuss all things apocalypse including what would be the worst possible scenario.

Check out The StoryMen Podcast on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/storymen/id579081902 where we discuss stories at the intersection of pop culture, theology, and history.

Visit the StoryMen website at http://www.storymen.us/

Find us on Twitter:
Matt Mikalatos: https://twitter.com/mattmikalatos
JR. Forasteros: https://twitter.com/jrforasteros
Clay Morgan: https://twitter.com/MorganUndead

Spinnin' by Alex is licensed under Attribution (3.0): http://ccmixter.org/files/AlexBeroza/32423

What Is Your Favorite Apocalyptic Scenario?

Mon, 03 Dec 2012 20:48:17 GMT

By Clay Morgan

Taken from an episode of The StoryMen Podcast, Matt Mikalatos, JR. Forasteros and Clay Morgan are joined by guest Jason Boyett to discuss all things apocalypse including one of the most interesting theories we've ever heard.

Check out The StoryMen Podcast on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/storymen/id579081902 where we discuss stories at the intersection of pop culture, theology, and history.

Visit the StoryMen website at http://www.storymen.us/

Find us on Twitter:
Matt Mikalatos: https://twitter.com/mattmikalatos
JR. Forasteros: https://twitter.com/jrforasteros
Clay Morgan: https://twitter.com/MorganUndead

Spinnin' by Alex is licensed under Attribution (3.0): http://ccmixter.org/files/AlexBeroza/32423

Do Not Judge

Sat, 17 Nov 2012 17:44:42 GMT

By David Dorn

Christ followers are not to be the morality police, citing people for their wrongs, but instead be beckons of light for people caught in darkness. Jesus never condoned people's sin, but He never beat people up over it either. Do Not Judge, that is Jesus' charge to us. How are we doing with that command? Check out this Bible Study on Matthew 7: 1-2.

Website: http://preposterousproject.org/
On Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/iampreposterous
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/preposterousproject

How to Read the Bible

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 16:18:15 GMT

By David Dorn

One of the biggest reasons people don't read their Bible is because they don't how to go about doing it. So we wanted to take an episode and address how to read the Bible in a very practical way. A special thanks to Cokesbury and The Bara Initiative for working with us in this episode. No matter at what point you are in this series, take a look at this video for the week.

Website - http://preposterousproject.com/
On Twitter - http://twitter.com/#!/iampreposterous
On Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/preposterousproject
Music by - http://opsound.org/artist/alexanderboyes/

Live on Common Ground

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 14:51:16 GMT

By Common English Bible

Live on Common Ground from Common English Bible on Vimeo.

What Is Discipleship?

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 18:01:40 GMT

By David Dorn

What does it mean to follow Christ, to be a disciple of Jesus? Jesus said to take up your cross and follow me, which is what we consider the basis of discipleship, but what does that look like exactly? Join us for PREPOSTEROUS 2.0, a new study asking these questions about Discipleship. Look for a new episode coming out the first Monday of every month.

95 Theses but the Pope Ain't One

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 19:22:10 GMT

By Xander Dominitz

Tom's Story

Mon, 08 Oct 2012 15:12:21 GMT

By Alex Schwindt

Tom's Story from alex schwindt on Vimeo.

This is a short film telling the story of a pastor's lifelong battle with addiction and lust. This is a touchy subject that most of us would rather pretend didn't exist. Hopefully Tom's willingness to bravely share his own journey can open up some conversations about porn addiction in their own communities.

Read Tom's new book Ashamed No More: A Pastor's Journey Through Sex Addiction.

Christmas is Not Your Birthday

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 17:38:29 GMT

By Mike Slaughter

The Christian World of The Hobbit

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 14:31:35 GMT

By Devin Brown

Author Devin Brown has also written a five-part series, "Five Faith Lessons from The Hobbit" — Perfect for discussing with youth or adult small groups after seeing the new movie together!

Bar Church Serves All

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 18:49:11 GMT

By Jerry Herships

After Hours Church in Denver (www.afterhourschurch.com) offers worship services, AKA "Happy Hours," in two bars every month (with a third in the works). As a call to worship, participants make lunches for the homeless and distrubute them along with socks, water, and communion 7 days a week in Civic Center Park along with seven other churches, two corporations and one apartment complex.

Pastor Jerry Herships wrote about his call to and beginnings in bar ministry in a 2011 article, From Last Call to My Call.

A Different Kind of Christmas

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 18:01:24 GMT

By Mike Slaughter

This video is a preview of the DVD study sessions from Mike Slaughter's A Different Kind of Christmas, a five-session study for Advent based on the book, Christmas is Not Your Birthday.

Christmas is Not Your Birthday

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 17:46:32 GMT

By Mike Slaughter

Holy Nomad

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 13:00:34 GMT

By Matt Litton

Undead: Revived, Resuscitated, and Reborn

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 12:31:22 GMT

By Clay Morgan

What I Wish I'd Known Before Going Into Ministry

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 20:26:58 GMT

By Ministry Matters

What do you wish someone had told you before you went into ministry?

Pete Wilson, Greg Surratt, Martin Thielen, and Adam Thomas respond.

The Greatest Need in the Church Today

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 19:37:23 GMT

By Ministry Matters

What do you consider to be the greatest need in the church today? Discipleship? Relevance?

Pete Wilson, Greg Surratt, Mike Slaughter, and Jo Saxton respond.

With the Time They Save Using Ministry Matters (No. 2)

Tue, 22 May 2012 19:07:53 GMT

By Ministry Matters

What do you do with the time you save by using Ministry Matters? Take up snowboarding? Raise goats? Vacuum the sanctuary? (yeah, right!) Hear from Lori Wilhite, Adam Thomas, Jo Saxton, and others in this lighthearted video.

And catch more leaders in With the Time They Save Using Ministry Matters (No. 1)

With the Time They Save Using Ministry Matters (No. 1)

Tue, 22 May 2012 19:04:33 GMT

By Ministry Matters

What do you do with the time you save by using Ministry Matters? Plant a garden? Reupholster furniture? Write a Broadway musical? Hear from Pete Wilson, Will Willimon, Greg Surratt, and others in this lighthearted video.

And catch more leaders in With the Time They Save Using Ministry Matters (No. 2.)

Will Willimon on Making Changes as Bishop

Wed, 02 May 2012 20:40:48 GMT

By Ministry Matters

This is an excerpt from an interview with United Methodist Bishop William H. Willimon.

Question: What were some of the biggest changes you made as bishop when you arrived at the North Alabama Conference?

Watch the complete interview.

Will Willimon on Defending the Establishment

Tue, 01 May 2012 20:32:39 GMT

By Ministry Matters

This is an excerpt from an interview with United Methodist Bishop William H. Willimon.
Question: How did someone with a reputation for being against the establishment find himself in a position of often having to defend the establishment?

Watch the complete interview.

Will Willimon on Seminaries and Alternatives

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:56:00 GMT

By Ministry Matters

This is an excerpt from an interview with United Methodist Bishop William H. Willimon.
Question: You've called the seminary system a monopoly. How do we introduce "competition" and provide alternative track(s) for preparing pastors?

Watch the complete interview.

Will Willimon on Guaranteed Appointment for Pastors

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 10:22:52 GMT

By Ministry Matters

This is an excerpt from an interview with United Methodist Bishop William H. Willimon.
Question: Why don't you like the guaranteed appointment system for United Methodist elders?

Watch the complete interview.

Interview: Bishop Will Willimon

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 10:14:40 GMT

By Shane Raynor

This is my complete interview with William H. Willimon, United Methodist bishop and author of Bishop: The Art of Questioning Authority by an Authority in Question.

Credo Confirmation

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:11:54 GMT

By Abingdon Youth

www.credoconfirmation.com

Making Growth Sustainable

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:01:55 GMT

By General Board of Discipleship

What do you take for granted as you walk into your church each Sunday? How is it that the fastest growing areas of The United Methodist Church are those with the least resources? Will that ever change?

Watch "Making Growth Sustainable: Providing Needed Resources in the Central Conferences," about nurturing the church's growth around the world.

This fifth film in the five-part series, Dreaming of Vital Congregations, produced by the General Board of Discipleship (GBOD), is also available to download and a free study guide at: GBOD.org/Dreaming.

Immeasurable Fruits

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 17:03:01 GMT

By Robert Schnase

Who Does God Love?

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:57:17 GMT

By Common English Bible

Who does God love? from Common English Bible on Vimeo.

Ministry Matters 101

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 20:12:00 GMT

By Ministry Matters

Here are a few steps that will help you get started on Ministry Matters, sort of a tutorial. Download the "5 Ways to Make the Most of Ministry Matters" flyer below to keep as a reminder or share with your colleagues. Check out our FAQs for more info.

A New Generation of Church Leaders

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 17:49:56 GMT

By General Board of Discipleship

Have you ever felt like you didn't fit in at church? If so, how will our young people grow to be strong leaders in a church that often excludes them?

Watch "A New Generation of Church Leaders: Training & Nurturing Young People," and then have a discussion in your church about what it means to truly include young people.

This fourth film in the five-part series, Dreaming of Vital Congregations, produced by the General Board of Discipleship (GBOD), is also available to download and a free study guide at: GBOD.org/Dreaming.

Tebow Leads Easter Services

Sun, 08 Apr 2012 18:41:49 GMT

By ABC News (External Video)

Video Source: ABC News
Ministry Matters is not responsible for content or advertising on external sites.

Making Life Matter

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 20:37:40 GMT

By Shane Stanford

Hijacked

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 15:53:10 GMT

By Mike Slaughter

Getting It All Done

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 13:49:46 GMT

By William H. Willimon

This is the fourth of Ministry Matters' new video series featuring well-known pastors and ministry leaders across America.

William H. Willimon is Bishop of the North Alabama Conference of the United Methodist Church. He has been named as one of the Twelve Most Effective Preachers in the English-speaking world, and is author of numerous books, including the recent Why Jesus? and Will to Lead, Grace to Follow.

Here, he talks about priorities and getting the essential work of ministry done.

WATCH MORE:

Fighting Isolation with Social Media

Natural Church Development

The UMC’s Biggest Challenge

Our Over-Messaged Lives

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 15:07:20 GMT

By General Board of Discipleship

Do you sometimes feel like you live an over-messaged life? Texting, emailing, web-surfing, television watching…how do we find the space and time for God? What's available at our fingertips to make sure time for God happens in our lives? Download the Study Guide.

This video is part of a five-part film series, Dreaming of Vital Congregations, which celebrates and explores the issues we all hold dear. Use these films as discussion starters in your General Conference delegations and local church small groups.

The Bible Made Impossible

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 19:08:10 GMT

By Christian Smith

Video Source: Brazos Press/Baker Publishing Group

Church 2092

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:04:01 GMT

By General Board of Discipleship

What will The United Methodist Church look like in 80 years? Will it survive? If so, how will we transform our congregations to ensure they make it to 2092? Download the Study Guide.

Using the Internet for Ministry

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 21:45:29 GMT

By Pete Wilson

WATCH MORE FROM PETE:

How I Prepare My Weekly Message

Pastor, You NEED Close Friends

Transforming People

With the time he saves using Ministry Matters…

Creating New Memories

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 14:59:27 GMT

By General Board of Discipleship

Remember your first memory of church? Some say those who live in the United States are losing their memory of church. If so, how do we plant new memories? Think strategically with us about planting new churches in the US. Download the Study Guide.

The Crucifixion

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 18:12:39 GMT

By Adam Hamilton

Adam Hamilton, senior pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas shares his thoughts on the Crucifixion. Adam is the author of 24 Hours That Changed the World.

Wind, Waves, and Fish

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 17:36:04 GMT

By Ben Witherington III

New Testament scholar Ben Witherington explores the ministry of Jesus around the Sea of Galilee. This is a portion of a segment from Ben's latest DVD and book project: On the Road with Jesus: Teaching and Healing.

The Last Supper

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 16:00:24 GMT

By Adam Hamilton

Adam Hamilton, senior pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas shares his thoughts about the Last Supper. Adam is the author of 24 Hours That Changed the World.

Ministry Matters Impact

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 18:08:13 GMT

By Greg Surratt

WATCH MORE FROM GREG:

Success Out of Failure
Our Identity in Christ
Advice for Young Pastors

And on a more lighthearted note, Greg shares what he’ll do with the time he saves using Ministry Matters.

The Story of Esther

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:51:47 GMT

By James W. Moore

Invitation to Remember the Future

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:21:28 GMT

By Robert Schnase

This video introduces Robert Schnase's "30 Days of Preparation," a series of reflections as The United Methodist Church prepares for General Conference 2012. Sign up today to receive the first of Schnase's daily meditations on March 26!

And don't miss the rest of Ministry Matters' General Conference content. View the GC2012 page and sign up today to get the highlights in your inbox!

Leadership Summit Overview

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 18:54:56 GMT

By Larry M. Goodpaster

The UMC Leadership Summit to discuss the Call to Action proposals were held in Nashville, Tenn., on April 6, 2011. This video provides a summary of the three-hour event, which was simulcast around the world. For more information, visit http://umc.to/umcleadershipsummit.

Remember the Future: Call to Action

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 18:35:51 GMT

By Robert Schnase

Check out Robert Schnase's "Remember the Future: 30 Days of Preparation," a series of reflections as The United Methodist Church prepares for General Conference 2012. Sign up today to receive the first of Schnase's daily meditations on March 26!

And don't miss the rest of Ministry Matters' General Conference content. View the GC2012 page and sign up today to get the highlights in your inbox!

Discerning God's Presence in Our Midst

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:49:33 GMT

By Sue Anne Steffey Morrow

More Spending, Fewer People

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 20:54:45 GMT

By General Council on Finance and Administration

UMC Realities from GCFA Admin on Vimeo.

Married for Real

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 18:59:14 GMT

By Eddie & Tamara George

Video Source: Abingdon Press

Where Has Oprah Taken Us?

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 18:51:36 GMT

By Stephen Mansfield

Video Source: Thomas Nelson Publishers

Ministry Matters is not responsible for content or advertising on external sites.

Fire of the Word

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 18:40:40 GMT

By Chris Webb

Video Source: InterVarsity Press

Ministry Matters is not responsible for content or advertising on external sites.

Listening to the Right Voices

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 14:44:58 GMT

By Abingdon Press

Video Source: Living the Good Life Together: Attentiveness

Receiving Welcome

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 17:18:08 GMT

By David O. Jenkins

What does it mean to give and receive welcome? What can we learn from it? Why is it risky?

Relentlessly Outward Focused

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 15:46:34 GMT

By Debi Nixon

Debi Nixon—Church of the Resurrection—Leawood, KS

Little Drummer Boy

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 15:32:12 GMT

By Sean Quigley

A 16-year-old’s remake of the classic Christmas carol “Little Drummer Boy” is capturing the hearts of many this season, already nearing 200,000 hits on YouTube since its release last Wednesday. (Read more from The Christian Post.)

Preparing Messages

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 21:38:52 GMT

By Katie Z. Dawson

Katie Dawson talks about how she puts together her weekly message—and how the pieces of the puzzle come together.

WATCH MORE FROM KATIE:

Young Pastor in a Small Town

Who is Katie Dawson?

Creative Worship on Hope

With the time she saves using Ministry Matters…

After Christmas: A Reason to Return

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 20:32:05 GMT

By Maurilio Amorim

Maurilio Amorim shares why it's important to give visitors a reason to return after Christmas.

With the Time Willimon Saves Using Ministry Matters...

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 15:00:21 GMT

By William H. Willimon

WATCH MORE FROM WILL WILLIMON:

Getting It All Done

Fighting Isolation with Social Media

Natural Church Development

The UMC’s Biggest Challenge

Lori Wilhite's Advice for Pastors' Wives

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 02:36:18 GMT

By Lori Wilhite

Lori Wilhite is founder of leadingandlovingit.com for Pastors' Wives and Women in Ministry and the wife of Jud Wilhite, Senior Pastor of Central Christian Church in Las Vegas. Watch as she shares critical advice to pastors' wives who struggle with self-doubt and depression.

WATCH MORE FROM LORI:

Lori on striving for perfection and an unattainable ideal.

Lori on the support network ministry wives need.

How Mike Slaughter Prepares Messages

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 20:28:26 GMT

By Mike Slaughter

Learn how Mike Slaughter, acclaimed author and Senior Pastor of Ginghamsburg Church, prepares his Sunday message. Check out his Message Bin with the "Why Jesus?" series he mentions at http://www.ministrymatters.com/mikeslaughter.

WATCH MORE:

Bigger than the Small Church

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 19:10:54 GMT

By Katie Z. Dawson

Here, Katie explains how ministry in a small church is really ministry to the wider community, and how small church pastors can make connections far beyond their own circle of colleagues.

WATCH MORE FROM KATIE:

Young Pastor in a Small Town

Who is Katie Dawson?

Creative Worship on Hope

With the time she saves using Ministry Matters…

Our Greatest Challenge

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 16:30:53 GMT

By Jo Saxton

Jo Saxton is a director of 3DM, a movement/organization helping churches develop a discipling and missional way of being the church. Originally from the UK, Jo was a college pastor at St. Thomas Church, Sheffield, planting congregations amongst college students and young adults. Since moving to the U.S. six years ago, Jo has served on church teams discipling young leaders and planting missional communities ranging from the suburbs to the inner city. Jo is also the author of Real God, Real Life, exploring authentic spirituality in today’s world.

Here, Jo discusses the greatest challenge for the church today.

WATCH MORE FROM JO:

Preaching for a Response

Online Study Community

Natural Church Development

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 15:10:39 GMT

By William H. Willimon

Here, he talks about his conference's use of Natural Church Development.

WATCH MORE:

Getting it All Done

Fighting Isolation with Social Media

The UMC’s Biggest Challenge

BASIC series trailer

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 19:28:39 GMT

By Francis Chan

What is church? Who is it for? Is it broken? Can it be better? Check out the BASIC series—seven short films on being the church—by Francis Chan and the producers who brought us Nooma.

Creative Worship on Hope

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 18:25:24 GMT

By Katie Z. Dawson

Here, Katie describes the creative worship that followed Iowa's major flooding in 2010. Using the story of Noah and some participatory artwork, the worship brought hope and comfort to a community in crisis.

WATCH MORE FROM KATIE:

Young Pastor in a Small Town

Who is Katie Dawson?

Bigger than the Small Church

With the time she saves using Ministry Matters…

Online Community

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 16:32:21 GMT

By Jo Saxton

Here, Jo talks about how Ministry Matters' bins create a virtual, global study community for pastors.

WATCH MORE FROM JO:

Our Greatest Challenge

Preaching for a Response

Tech Sabbath

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:47:46 GMT

By Adam Thomas

Check out Adam's book Digital Disciple, available now.

The Journey

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 18:44:35 GMT

By Adam Hamilton

Ministry Matters: Videos

Prayer Service for Oklahoma Tornado Victims

Naming Jacob: The Power of Words

Who You Are in the Heavenly Realm (Converge Episode 4)

Related Links:

Are You a Hypocrite?

Small Group Questions

Question of the Day

Why Is Jackie Robinson Important?

John Wesley and Christian Orthodoxy

Mary Magdalene (Converge Episode 3)

Prototype

The Woman at the Well (Converge Episode 2)

The Unforgivable Sin

Small Group Questions

Question of the Day

Deborah (Converge Episode 1)

Does Church Make You a Christian?

How to Love Like God

The Jesus We Need

Small Group Questions

Not For Sale

Jesus Ate with Sinners!

Small Group Questions

Question of the Day

Abraham Lincoln and Christianity

Jesus on Sin

Warm Bodies and the Meaning of Life

Jesus on Zombies

The Undead Youth Ministry Interview

Grace: The Means Through Which We Grow

Inaugural Prayer Service Sermon

The Way

Jesus on Miracles

An Introduction to Chrysalis

Lifetime Wish Fulfilled

Responding to the Newtown Tragedy

Movement

12 Ounce Interview with Clay Morgan

Is God Generous?

Wolves, Sharks, or Zombies?

What Is Your Favorite Apocalyptic Scenario?

Do Not Judge

How to Read the Bible

Live on Common Ground

What Is Discipleship?

95 Theses but the Pope Ain't One

Tom's Story

Christmas is Not Your Birthday

The Christian World of The Hobbit

Bar Church Serves All

A Different Kind of Christmas

Christmas is Not Your Birthday

Holy Nomad

Undead: Revived, Resuscitated, and Reborn

What I Wish I'd Known Before Going Into Ministry

The Greatest Need in the Church Today

With the Time They Save Using Ministry Matters (No. 2)

With the Time They Save Using Ministry Matters (No. 1)

Will Willimon on Making Changes as Bishop

Will Willimon on Defending the Establishment

Will Willimon on Seminaries and Alternatives

Will Willimon on Guaranteed Appointment for Pastors

Interview: Bishop Will Willimon

Credo Confirmation

Making Growth Sustainable

Immeasurable Fruits

Who Does God Love?

Ministry Matters 101

A New Generation of Church Leaders

Tebow Leads Easter Services

Making Life Matter

Hijacked

Getting It All Done

Our Over-Messaged Lives

The Bible Made Impossible

Church 2092

Using the Internet for Ministry

Creating New Memories

The Crucifixion