There are few things more disheartening in ministry than fractured relationships—especially when they come from within the very circle you trusted most. Like so many pastors and church leaders, I’ve often experienced the confusion that comes when someone you thought was a friend suddenly goes silent without any explanation. As much as that sort of … Continue reading Relationships Gone Cold
One of my favorite pastimes is working in the yard—especially the backyard. No matter where we’ve lived, I’ve always treated that space as a kind of sanctuary. I love the whole process: landscaping, planting gardens, and even the simple rhythm of mowing the grass. If you’ve ever visited my home, you already know—my backyard is … Continue reading Mud & Grace
In today’s culture, “tolerance” often means accepting all beliefs and behaviors as equally valid. The idea of calling something “wrong” has become almost taboo. Judging others is now seen as the worst possible offense. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses this issue with surprising clarity. In Matthew 7, He gives us two powerful … Continue reading Do Not Judge
Fall is upon us! The leaves are changing, and the air is getting cooler—it’s a beautiful time to be in Kentucky. As we get ready for pumpkin-spiced everything, let’s take a moment to recognize the goodness of God in this new season. Speaking of new seasons, the Kentucky District is experiencing a season of change. … Continue reading Pastoral Search Process
“I believe in God, but not religion.” This type of comment makes me think that our religious services aren’t offering God in a way that people can sit down at the spiritual table and feast. It means that God isn’t being presented, well, as God. Let’s be honest. We like to wrap God up in … Continue reading Jesus Uncensored
On Friday evening, December 3, 1999, my wife and I were on our way to the NC District Church of the Nazarene’s Christmas celebration. Before getting on the highway, we pulled into a gas station to fill up. The wind chill was below zero, which was unusually cool for North Carolina. Even though I wore … Continue reading Furnace Club
After many years of preaching, I’ve grown accustomed to the Holy Spirit prompting me to say things that make me uncomfortable. Usually, it’s something hard for me to hear myself or something that’ll likely offend some of my listeners or both. I can’t count how many times I’ve prayed over and prepared notes a week … Continue reading Standing In The Pulpit
If you’re easily offended, you’re carnal. Offense is nothing more than your flesh trying to live. The more you give in to it, the more susceptible you become to being offended. It is like an automatic firearm; it keeps blasting once you pull the trigger. If not dealt with, offense turns into resentment. When that … Continue reading Cancel Culture
Last year, I received an invitation to be one of the guest speakers at a conference in Kokomo, IN. The Holiness Partnership (tHP) was planning its first annual gathering, and I was honored to be asked to preach. I have known the majority of those involved in organizing tHP for many years. They are fruitful … Continue reading The Holiness Partnership
The Bible is the bestselling book of all time. Every year it sells more than 100 million copies. It has been translated into more than 700 languages. The Guinness Book of World Records estimates that the Bible has sold over five billion total copies. Many have tried to discredit it. All have failed. Followers of … Continue reading Biblical Worldview
Brian L Powell 