Welcome to the second edition of Equip to Disciple in 2009. This issue is being produced at a time when many things are happening in the world that will bring huge consequences to us all economically and politically, but especially morally and spiritually. It appears that with each attempt to fix one part of the malfunctioning system, other areas are impacted adversely.

While it is our responsibility to work on the economic problem and the various political ideologies, it is not simplistic to say we must start with the moral and spiritual. If we do not start with God and a right knowledge of Him, we will never be able to see clearly enough to understand the real problems causing our woes.

Sadly, each church and each denomination have embraced the practice of everyman for himself. There is very little evidence that the church, which represents one faith, one hope, one baptism, etc., is seen as one in the eyes of our people. We see division, kingdom building, and strife among Christians; hence they do not seem to be impacting solutions to the bigger problems. Jesus asked His disciples on one occasion, “Do you not yet understand?” You have eyes and ears but you neither see nor hear, thus placing you in great danger.

Though according to the Christian world and life view history is following a sequential linear pattern and moving toward the end, there are circular patterns within history that should teach us vital lessons. Following the Dark Ages, there eventually arose what came to be known as the Protestant Reformation. Many attempts have been made to define and describe that movement. The one that seems to fit the best is connected with the French Reformer John Calvin. Calvin declared that we must return the church to the sovereign God who is over all things, as we learn about Him in His written word, the scriptures of the old and New Testament. This aim not only applies to the church but to all of life; as the apostle Paul said, “In all things, Christ preeminent.”

In this issue we remember part of the life and story of John Calvin. We talk about him as a preacher, teacher, educator, and a faithful builder of God’s kingdom. Two books are mentioned in review to encourage your reading on Calvin. Another book you will want to read has an intriguing subject matter, The Great Emergence, whose title is a reference to the “emergent movement.” We asked our friend from Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, John Muether, to review this book by Phyllis Tickle for us. Tickle’s book has an explanation of history. If her views have any validity, we definitely see things changing, and not necessarily for the better. Two other reviewed books on bioethics and the death penalty raise some interesting questions; and of course when things are chaotic, leaders are needed to take charge. The book Leadership Dynamic is a timely book for Christians to read and learn from.

In this issue, you will also read about training events such as the annual training conference for those in leadership roles in women’s ministry. The biennial Mercy Ministry Conference sponsored by CEP and MNA is highlighted as well, along with several youth training events and an important article on local church youth ministry. The teaching tips and learning styles mentioned in the Equip Tip will be helpful in your teaching roles, and In Case You’re Asked addresses a timely topic in the life of the PCA.

We trust you will find this edition of Equip to Disciple helpful, enjoyable, and challenging.

- Charles Dunahoo