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What is the eternal destination of a person who commits suicide? People contemplating suicide have asked this question as well as relatives and friends of those who killed themselves. Last year I was called to preach the funeral of a friend who committed suicide. After a few introductory remarks, I said, “Let’s discuss what people…
If a person kills himself, will he go to hell?” This was a phone call from a person I didn’t know. My question: “Why do you ask?”. The man answered, “If you can’t talk me out of it, that’s what I’m going to do when I hang up the phone.” What do you do when…
A question by email: I was involved in a discussion today while in the presence of three christian ladies, hardworking and dependable. A question was asked, and it was obvious that it was headed in the direction of gossip, at which time I ended the discussion. On the way home it occurred to me that…
As we were discussing prospective elders in one congregation, I suggested the names of two men. The present elders said, “Jerrie, why do you suggest them. Neither has any children.” My reply: “No. They don’t have children but they are both professional firemen. If they were appointed to put out the fires in this church,…
Where does an elder, shepherd, go to learn how to do his job well? There is no better teacher than a good example of someone who has done it well. There is no better example than Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Sheep in Jesus’ fold, sheep pen, have Jesus for a shepherd. Sheep in Jesus’ sheep…
“I don’t want to hear another preacher telling elders what to do. He hasn’t been an elder. He doesn’t know what he’s talking about.” I understand someone tiring of being instructed by a person who seems to have no reason to understand. However, most male doctors have never had a baby and yet they help…
Welcome to New Shepherds Orientation, a blog and website dedicated to providing information, inspiration, and appreciation for those men and their families who serve as shepherds (elders, bishops, overseers) of the Lord’s church. I have served with 64 shepherds in full-time and interim ministry in addition to scores of others in workshops, consultations, and gospel…