Gospel-Shaped Blog

By: Scott Thomas Nov 25, 2023

The command to love one's neighbor is a fundamental principle in the Bible. In the Old Testament, the command appears in Leviticus 19:18, where it says, "You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord." In the New Testament, Jesus reinforces this command and elevates its significance. In Matthew 22:37-40 (ESV), Jesus is quoted as saying, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind... [and] You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets." Additionally, in Mark 12:31 (ESV), Jesus explicitly commands, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." So, the principle of loving one's neighbor is foundational in the Bible, reiterated by Jesus, and emphasized as one of the essential commandments.

May 5, 2023

Every pastor must pursue holistic health to lead effectively and care for their congregation. Neglecting holistic health can lead to burnout, mental health issues, physical health issues, and a decreased ability to care for others. Pursuing holistic health can lead to increased energy, reduced stress, and an improved ability to connect with your congregation.

May 5, 2023

Every pastor must pursue holistic health to lead effectively and care for their congregation. Neglecting holistic health can lead to burnout, mental health issues, physical health issues, and a decreased ability to care for others. Pursuing holistic health can lead to increased energy, reduced stress, and an improved ability to connect with your congregation.

May 5, 2023

Every pastor must pursue holistic health to lead effectively and care for their congregation. Neglecting holistic health can lead to burnout, mental health issues, physical health issues, and a decreased ability to care for others. Pursuing holistic health can lead to increased energy, reduced stress, and an improved ability to connect with your congregation.

May 5, 2023

Every pastor must pursue holistic health to lead effectively and care for their congregation. Neglecting holistic health can lead to burnout, mental health issues, physical health issues, and a decreased ability to care for others. Pursuing holistic health can lead to increased energy, reduced stress, and an improved ability to connect with your congregation.

By: Scott Thomas Apr 1, 2023

JI Packer said, "The church . . . is a hospital in which nobody is entirely healthy, and anyone can relapse at any time." Spiritual abuse can occur in the church, and its victims can experience lasting effects. But the gospel is good news that produces the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.

By: Scott Thomas Feb 21, 2023

We all need encouragement. So, why is encouragement so challenging to give to others? God said to Jesus, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased” (Matthew 3:17). Do we prefer pointing out a minor deficiency to highlighting a major character quality?

By: Scott Thomas Feb 14, 2023

The Apostle Paul encouraged ministers to “not lose heart” (2 Cor. 4:1, 16). Scripture uses this Greek word, translated as “lose heart,” six times. In each case, it is associated with doing something good and yet becoming discouraged by the outcomes of our ministry. Discouragement is common in the ministry. Paul could not have humanly anticipated the "cynical saints" associated with the church in 2023, but the Spirit of God knew we would need encouragement. Paul points out that ministers will experience affliction and persecution but, with their focus on Christ, will not be crushed or driven to despair (4:7-9).

By: Scott Thomas Jan 4, 2023

You may be trying to force yourself into a position in the church that is not a fit for you. Not everyone is cut out to be a church planter. Great pastors can make average church planters. Your quest in life is to find your unique role in the church and fill it. Be content with how God has equipped you. There is no shame in that.

By: Scott Thomas Dec 2, 2022

Discover six principles to guide your ministry.