Ed Stetzer
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Are the Younger Unchurched Still Spiritually Open?
There’s an idea that Christianity in America is dying. No serious researcher—not one—thinks that. However, I still am surprised that some people think this. (For a quick analysis, see this article). Facts are our friends—in this and in every situation—and what do the facts really show about the situation? The Unchurched Are Open A few …
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The Real Reasons Young Adults Drop Out of Church
Despite all the fear-driven presentations you’ve heard, not every young person is walking out of the church the moment they finish high school and never coming back. Here’s what you need to know. The young adults who do drop out of church often lack a firsthand faith—a faith of their own—and a relationship with Christ …
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Dumb and Dumber: How Biblical Illiteracy Is Killing Our Nation
America can be proud of many things: our innovation, generosity and entrepreneurial spirit are unsurpassed. Yet when it comes to our nation understanding one of the greatest gifts ever given to humanity—the Bible—we’re moving from dumb to dumber … and it’s no laughing matter. Both inside and outside the church, there is a problem. Non-Christians …
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Can Prayer and Bible Study Alone Cure Mental Illness?
Recently, a church member shared two stories on mental health that I thought were fascinating and worth considering. I have written frequently on mental illness (and medication) as of late. In addition, LifeWay Research is currently engaged in some significant research on the church and mental illness, which will be completely finished this fall. If …
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Christian: It’s More Than Just a Label
The latest issue of American Scholar magazine features on its cover a solitary man sitting in the front pew of a vast church, head in hands. About halfway back sits an older couple, while a lonely woman makes her way up the aisle. Empty pews fill the rest of the page. The headline reads “The …
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Ed Stetzer: Christians, Think Before You Tweet
You can’t blurt at people and reach people at the same time. This is true no matter how satisfying it feels to add your voice to the political rants on social media. In the current political climate, with shutdowns and blame, I have watched the volume grow and the civility shrink. I believe in the …
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Ed Stetzer Recalls ‘Legacy’ of Chuck Smith
Like many of you, I found out Thursday morning that Calvary Chapel founder and pastor Chuck Smith has died. He was 86. Charismanews.com has a helpful obituary. Chuck and Calvary Chapel have played an important role in the evangelical movement in the past century. Simply put, it is hard to overstate the significance of Calvary Chapel in remapping …
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10 Things I’ve Learned After 26 Years of Marriage
Recently, my wife, Donna, and I celebrated our 26th wedding anniversary. We’ve been together for 30 years, since our first date on Aug. 13, 1983. That’s a long time together by today’s standards. Here are 10 things I’ve learned about marriage and relationships along the way: 1. Marriage is worth the investment. Yes, it is an …
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When You Feel Betrayed by God
I just can’t seem to forgive God is a common phrase I’ve heard in ministry over the years. Whether experiencing personal grief or physical suffering, we all have a propensity to blame God for circumstances beyond our control—and as such find it hard to “forgive” Him. I’ve experienced it in my own life. I will …