TGC | Arts & Culture

We live in one of the most anxious times in recent history. In fact, the last time the United States had reason to be so concerned about the overall state of things was at the outset of World War II, maybe Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. But in spring 2020, every day feels a little like that—except the tentacles of anxiety reach across the globe.

In times of war, bad news comes virtually every day; so too in times of pandemic. But against this dark backdrop, the good news we celebrate worldwide this week shines with stunning luminosity: Jesus Christ, the unique God-man, died in the place of sinners and rose again on the third day. Holy Week in the midst of our current pandemic brings unprecedented opportunity to communicate Christ’s love for sinners to an anxiety-ridden populace.

Pastors and their churches may be quarantined, but the gospel is never quarantined. Jesus promised that he will build his church—a promise that stands in times of darkness and light, war and peace, sickness and health. From death came life. Especially now—as people are perhaps realizing death is real, our world is dangerous, and life is uncertain—let’s share this good news. Share it in every way possible, perhaps considering Paul Worcester’s suggestions in “10 Simple Ways to Evangelize During a Pandemic.”

JEFF ROBINSON
Senior Editor
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10 Simple Ways to Evangelize During a Pandemic
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Worth Your Time
1

Spurgeon famously admonished preachers to take a text and, as soon as possible, make a beeline for the cross. Was that sound advice? Usually. But what happens when so-called gospel-centered preaching goes to seed? The writers at 9Marks examine that question in significant detail in the latest issue of the 9Marks Journal, “What’s Wrong with Gospel-Centered Preaching Today?”

2

Most pastors have spent recent Sunday mornings preaching sermons in front of a video camera, maybe in the presence of a praise team member or two. Is it possible to summon the unction to preach effectively in such a weird setting? Steve Weaver encourages pastors to preach “as loudly and effectually” in isolation as they did in freedom with “On Pastoring, Coronavirus, and Self-Isolation” (Southern Equip).

3

Yes, pastor, you canceled services as a demonstration of cooperation with God-ordained authorities and as a display of love to neighbor. But did you feel perhaps a little guilty? Did you do the right thing? Receive some encouragement and affirmation from Ronnie Martin in his article “You’re Not a Bad Pastor If You Cancel Services Over COVID-19” (For the Church).

4

It’s helpful to learn from ministers who’ve gone before us, whose lights burned especially bright during stormy times. Brian Croft of Practical Shepherding shares one of these stories in “What Do I Love About Spurgeon’s Ministry That Is Largely Overlooked?”

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