I have been reading a fascinating, thought provoking book entitled, Missional Church:  A Vision for the Sending of the Church in North America.  In this book, the authors make the following observation about the church’s ministry and mission, “…the church … Continue reading →

Ecclesiology is what we believe about the church.  Ecclesiology answers such questions as: “What is the purpose of the church?”, “What is the most important task of the church?” and, “How should the church relate to the world?”  Whether we … Continue reading →

Grace Baptist Church came into being in 1893 and has been located on the same site since its inception.  I can’t imagine what this part of Portland looked like in 1893, but I know the Montavilla neighborhood has changed a … Continue reading →

With Easter behind us, there is often less emphasis placed on the resurrection.  The excitement of the empty tomb can fade into the background, if allowed.  Often Baptists are referred to as “People of the Book,” stressing our emphasis on … Continue reading →

It’s hard to believe April is here.  It seems only a few weeks ago we were observing Advent and the Christmas season.  Spring is a great time of year.  Everything around us in nature is experiencing a rebirth.  We already … Continue reading →

I have just returned home from the annual Ministers Council retreat.  It was held in Lincoln City where the ocean view from the motel was absolutely stunning. The theme of this year’s retreat was Sabbath Rest.  The speaker made a … Continue reading →

Paul closes chapter 3 of Ephesians with these words, “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in … Continue reading →