Opinion Archives - Page 8 of 57 - The Baptist Paper

First person: Developing a culture of invitation

November 5, 2025

Since we live in such a secular culture, it’s easy to think most nonbelievers are indifferent — even hostile — to the idea of attending church.

Opinion: Chuck Kelley’s take on SBC trends

October 31, 2025

“This is not a time for Southern Baptists to get mad. It is not a time to look for a person or persons to blame. Southern Baptist leaders need to know that we can handle disappointing news and face challenges with resolve, not rage. This is a time for Southern Baptists to buckle up and get ready for some tough news, some hard choices, and the necessity of working up hill for years,” said Chuck Kelley.

First person: The value of every day

October 26, 2025

In other words, the only certainties in life are its unpredictability and its brevity.

First person: Handling church trolls online

October 21, 2025

I’ve consulted with hundreds of churches over the years, and sadly, online trolls are a common enemy shared by some of the most effective churches in America.

First person: Deborah and unflinching leadership

October 17, 2025

“I recognize Deborah is not a friend you meet for coffee. She speaks sharply and pulls no punches,” writes Meredith Flynn.

First person: Faithfulness is a call to do hard things

October 11, 2025

On Monday afternoons, I often check in with our members who were out of worship on Sunday. As I spoke with an older woman in our congregation, we found ourselves talking about the generational differences between us.

First person: Is there a ‘best’ way to preach Scripture?

October 7, 2025

Recently, while walking verse-by-verse through 1 Corinthians, I found myself wrestling with texts that, frankly, I would have never chosen to preach if my only concern was what people wanted to hear.

First person: New Kids Edition offers faith-based, low-tech fun for readers

October 6, 2025

The Baptist Paper Kids Edition premieres this week. Scripture, science, jokes, art, baking, crafting, puzzling — there’s something to engage mind, body and spirit on each page.

First person: What do you do with these books?

October 2, 2025

There are two answers – one is for the organization, and the other is for private individuals.

First person: Forgiving the unforgivable

September 28, 2025

What makes that kind of forgiveness possible? One word: Jesus.

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