Jonathan Leeman

Jamie Dunlop

Benjamin Merkle

Matt Schmucker

Phil Newton

John Ingold

Bobbie Jamieson

Ken Barbic

Jesus came to deacon (Mark 10:45; Rom. 15:8). So did Paul, Apollos, and Tychicus (1 Cor. 3:5, 6; Eph. 3:7; 6:21; Col. 4:7). And the greatest among us will be deacons (Mark 10:43). It's not a badlabel to wear, apparently.The New Testament only mentions this unassuming office two, maybe three times (Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:8-13; cf. Rom. 16:1). But pay attention. It also seems to direct the deacon's attention to the church's physical good, which in turn will serve the church's spiritual good. The deacon is a unity builder-and shock absorber! There should be nothing unspiritualabout a deacon.What about your church? Do you officially recognizeanyone as a deacon? Doing so publicly holds forth models of Christian love and service.We hope these articles will stimulate you to considerwhy and how to employ such individuals in your congregation.

Deacons Are Shock Absorbers - 9Marks Journal

Michael Lawrence

Mark Dever

John Starke

Walter Price

Jeramie Rinne

Geoff Chang

Dennis Newkirk

Stephen Dempster

Quick, before you make another move, pastor, read this Journal!If you're thinking of leaving your church for another, start with Michael Lawrence's article on leaving wisely. In fact, look at Matt Schmucker's even before you think about leaving. Have you looked yet? Okay, what about now? I've seen enough pastors come and go to know that Lawrence and Schmucker just might shift your paradigm.Or maybe the process of searching has begun. Mark De-ver, Bobby Jamieson, Walter Price, and Dennis Newkirk will help you to avoid common mis-takes and pursue the next pastor wisely.Then again, maybe you should not make a move at all. Jeramie Rinne and Mark Dever will tell you why. Pastor Rinne, in fact, would rather see you dead right where you are. What a pastor!

Pastoral Moves - 9Marks Journal

Matt Schmucker

Books

Your next favorite book is out there