We live in a time when – more than ever before – political differences are creating deep divisions even among close family and friends. Conversations quickly turn heated, relationships feel strained, and it can be tempting to cut people off altogether to avoid the tension. But followers of Jesus are called to something higher. How do you protect a relationship – or repair one that has been damaged by a disagreement related to opposing political views or convictions?
If you’ve ever read through the Old Testament, you’ve likely wrestled with the stories of war, judgment, and divine wrath. How do we reconcile the God of love revealed in Jesus with the God who commanded the destruction of entire nations? Is He a different God? Did He change?
Church hurt is one of the deepest wounds a person can experience. When the place that was supposed to be a refuge becomes a source of pain, it can shake your faith to its core. You might find yourself questioning everything - God, the church, even yourself. But if...
In his book, Hope for the Troubled Heart, Billy Graham tells the story of a man who was the only survivor of a shipwreck. He washed up on the shore of a remote island, completely alone. He managed to build a hut on the island for shelter, and he put everything he had...
DISCLAIMER: If you're a Christian who is easily offended or triggered, I love you but please stop reading here and go watch this video of baby bunnies. For everyone else, here is a quick summary of where Jesus stands going into this election cycle: Jesus loves people...
You ever have something you want to say, but you know you probably shouldn't? I know the feeling. Truth be told, I've written this blog post a dozen times, and never hit "Publish." Why? Well, it's pretty simple. See, right or wrong, when you spend enough time around...
Jimmy McLoud is the Lead Pastor of First Christian Church in Canton, Ohio. His passion – and the vision of First Christian – is to share the good news that Jesus is for all people by helping them find hope, purpose, and a place to belong. He serves on the Board of Directors for The Solomon Foundation and on the Advisory Team for The Unstuck Group. Jimmy and his wife, Ashley, live in North Canton with their four kids: Braylon, Carter, Ellie, and Grace.