Third Quarter 2009
Equip to Disciple
 

Welcome to this edition of Equip to Disciple. We have recently returned from our annual General Assembly (GA) meeting. A number of common themes were heard, but one of the most prevalent was the downward turn in giving and the financial stress this has placed upon the committees and agencies. Another item was the lower number of commissioners participating than expected and the ramifications of this situation. Other issues included the election of ruling elder Brad Bradley of Park Cities PCA in Dallas, Texas, as moderator for 2009 and 2010 and the debate regarding the establishment of a committee to study the role of women, particularly as it relates to diaconal ministry. By Faith, the PCA’s denominational magazine, will contain more details on these highlights and the uplifting worship services.

One of the recommendations at GA from the Christian Education and Publications Committee followed a three year pattern of designating September 12, 2009 as Seniors’ Day. One question about this action was raised. Why just a day and not the entire year? As the lead article by Dr. George Fuller indicates, CEP’s plan is to continue to encourage churches to be aware of the need to minister to this fastest growing segment of our society and help seniors to be involved in ministering to others during this time in their lives. (CEP has resources and training for churches.)

In this issue you will find another strategic article by Dr. Dennis Bennett, CEP’s Resources Coordinator, on one of his specialty topics, “How We Teach and How They Learn.”

Regarding the book reviews, which Equip to Disciple takes very seriously in selecting, we have decided it is important to remember some of the “classics” that are still in print as well as new publications. From time to time we have, and will continue, to highlight some of them. For example, in this issue The Christian Mind by Henry Blaimires and Issues Facing Christians Today by John Stott are two such books. We recommend them as part of the curriculum for the ongoing process of making kingdom disciples. We have included other books, such as Prayer of the Lord by Dr. R. C. Sproul on the Lord’s Prayer and Learning Evangelism from Jesus by Jerram Barrs. When Kids Hurt: Help for Adults Navigating the Adolescence Maze by Chap Clark and Steve Rabey is also a strategic book in discipling the rising generation. 

One of the events associated with this PCA Assembly was the celebration of the 500^th anniversary of the birthday of John Calvin. In connection, we have included a book by Philip Ryken and the late James Boice, Doctrines of Grace: Rediscovering the Evangelical Gospel, which deals with the influence of Calvinism in our midst.

We trust you will find this issue helpful, informational, and part of our attempt to keep you aware of our challenge to make disciples and pass the faith on to the next generation.

Check out our website, www.pcacep.org, and bookstore for further resources and training opportunities available to your church. Our staff is always available to assist you in your training and resource needs.

Charles Dunahoo

CEP Coordinator