DEAR THEOPHILUS

I think ‘leadership’ became something of a buzz word at some stage during my 35 years of church-based ministry. It seemed that on one side you had accomplished managers bringing their insights (from secular publications and university courses) to the table enhanced with Bible proof-texts to enhance the Christian context. Then in the other corner, seasoned church pastors, modelling their ministry on Christ’s servant-leadership role as expressed and depicted in the Gospel narra

Where to start? Though I'm planning 12 monthly sessions across the coming year, where should I start? Can you place aspects of personal spirituality and ministry gifts into a logical order? Do you need LEVEL 5 Discipleship before sharing your faith? And what is LEVEL 5 Discipleship? Because I just made that term up! So, over the coming months there'll be a mix of handouts, covering ministry skills and personal spirituality. Remember, His gifts can only be sustained where His

Introducing the Finally…  Series for 2026 Perhaps this is what spiritual maturity is all about? Back to basics, but deliberately raising the bar! Church ministry is, wonderfully rich, beautifully complex, and—at times—overwhelming. Whether you are new to serving, stepping into leadership, or returning to areas of ministry after a season away, the landscape can feel vast. Even those who have walked with Christ for decades discover there is always more to learn, more to refine,

Mature – it’s how I like my English Cheddar. ‘Aged’ is not quite the same concept. Though wine can age well, people rarely do, and fresh...

Which old dilemma? Sovereignty, Freedom & the Incarnation   As I continue to assemble the manuscript to my School of Ministry book, I’m...