Notable Voices and the Week in Review: December 16, 2017

Earlier this week at ThomRainer.com:

10 Reasons the Christmas Season Can Be Hard for Pastors — Chuck Lawless

I love the Christmas season. I love decorating our house with my wife, giving gifts, and celebrating the birth of Christ. I must admit, though, that the work of being a pastor during the Christmas season was sometimes stressful. Here’s why:

Research and Thoughts on Billy Graham’s Legacy and Leadership — Eric Geiger

There will be a lot said about Billy Graham, and rightly so, in coming years as people reflect on his legacy and his leadership. I have never met Billy Graham, but I am very thankful for these three aspects of his leadership and legacy.

7 Sure Marks of a False Teacher — Tim Challies

False teachers have been a plague since the very beginning. They are a plague in our day. But what’s interesting to me is that while the times change and while the circumstances change, the methods of these false teachers really don’t change very much. Whether you’re looking at the first century or you’re looking at the 21st century, you’ll pretty quickly spot seven sure marks of a false teacher.

Nine Realities and Trends in Bivocational Ministry — Karl Vaters

Bivocational ministers (pastors who work outside the church to provide most or all of their household income) may be the most under-appreciated and overlooked leaders in the church. Here are 9 realities and trends I have picked up from my research, observations, and conversations with dozens of…