My TOP3 is a way to share with all ya’ll what I’ve been reading and enjoying from around the Web. These are my favorites from this week! – Mark Navey
CHURCH PLANTING IN SATURATED AREAS
From the guys at Midwestern Seminary, this podcast is 40 minutes of encouraging and Christ-orienting conversation aimed almost directly at us. 40 minutes may seem long, but it goes by quickly. This is absolutely worth listening to during a car ride or two. Some of the most helpful stuff is aimed at thinking of churches as partners and guarding against the mentality that “we get it right and no one else does,” and making our main goal loving and serving Jesus.
Favorite Quote: “What if the church became a multicultural explosion of joy?”
Bonus: “You’re not going to walk into most churches in the South and think, ‘they’re just too joyful.'”
EVANGELISM AND SOCIAL ACTION ARE CLOSE FRIENDS
Cynthia Ruble, who is a missionary to Japan, wrote this article for TGC. It’s almost always helpful to consider how people in other cultures are working through the how and what of sharing the Gospel. Cynthia helpfully balances temporary blessing with the eternal blessing of conversion. I love how she frames our work now in context of Christ’s return and glory!
Favorite Quote: “We’re soldiers of the cross, not mere social activists who happen to be Christians.”
4 WAYS MARTIN LUTHER ENCOURAGES PASTORS TO PRAY
This has “Pastors” in the title, but it’s true and useful for everyone. Not only does this article give practical advice for how to pray better, but it also gives solid help about how we should position ourselves in prayer.
Favorite Quote: “I learn more and more that prayer is my most essential work.”