The following are extracts from a printed booklet that sampled sermons from the radio ministry of Pastor W. A. C. Rowe. W.A.C Rowe was also the author of one of the first Pentecostal (and Apostolic) Systematic Theologies: One Lord; One Faith. Yet despite fondly dipping into this book many times over the years, I confessContinue reading “The Ministry of W.A.C Rowe: (and a Tribute by Ian MacPherson)”
Author Archives: Rev John James
Have we become eschatologically agnostic? (Does what we believe about the End Times matter?)
The Apostolic Church, like most denominations, has a statement of faith. In our statement of faith we have a section that reads, we believe in: “The virgin birth, sinless life, atoning death, triumphant resurrection, ascension, and abiding intercession of our Lord Jesus Christ; His second coming, and millennial reign upon earth.” That’s a lot ofContinue reading “Have we become eschatologically agnostic? (Does what we believe about the End Times matter?)”
Cardinal Newman: The Church is like an Equestrian Statue
Following on from my “old books; Fresh Truths’ post and my quote from David Watson’s book Discipleship, I thought I’d share another extract, this time David is drawing from an image of the church spoken by Cardinal Newman. Cardinal Newman once said that the church is like an equestrian statue: the front legs are liftedContinue reading “Cardinal Newman: The Church is like an Equestrian Statue”
Can Old Books Give Us Fresh Truths? (David Watson warns about the danger of spiritual asthma)
I love a new book as much as the next person. We need fresh perspectives on today’s issues. That said, I love old books more. Older books have a way of speaking into contemporary situations without the presuppositions of contemporary authors (and readers). That’s not to say authors from previous generations don’t have their ownContinue reading “Can Old Books Give Us Fresh Truths? (David Watson warns about the danger of spiritual asthma)”
When was the last time we were overwhelmed by God’s love for us?
I was recently at a church prayer meeting and a brother in the Lord was sharing about how he had been reflecting on God’s faithfulness to him, even amidst various forms of trials he had gone through. As he recounted God’s goodness, he gently broke down in tears. It was a powerful moment. It gotContinue reading “When was the last time we were overwhelmed by God’s love for us?”
Where are the Preachers of the Word? A Challenge from two Church of Scotland Ministers to the Church in Scotland
This week I have come across two quotes, from two Church of Scotland Ministers (one living and one deceased) which are remarkably similar in spirit, despite being written more than 40 years apart. One is challenging the quality of preaching in contemporary ‘evangelicalism’ (a defining term that doesn’t really say much about anything anymore) andContinue reading “Where are the Preachers of the Word? A Challenge from two Church of Scotland Ministers to the Church in Scotland”
What happens when we lose confidence in God’s Word?
If we are not building our lives on the foundation of God’s Word, then something else will take its place. Pastor Colin Dye says: “Once confidence in the Word of God is lost, then the bedrock of revelation is removed. This means all that’s left to build upon are the sinking sands of human opinion.”Continue reading “What happens when we lose confidence in God’s Word?”
Does what we believe about the Bible really matter?
The Bible is (probably) read in every church. It’s (probably) read by almost every professing Christian (some will read it more than others). Most Christians (probably) have some idea of some of the things the Bible says. Yet how many Christians think biblically about the Bible? What do I mean? The Apostle Paul gives usContinue reading “Does what we believe about the Bible really matter?”
Transitions: Ministry Update re Kairos Church
On Sunday the 22nd February, I preached my last sermon at Kairos Church as the Lead pastor, having planted the church in 2020. It was a very moving service with a variety of emotions. There was a natural sadness that comes with the end of a season, but there was also joy and gratitude inContinue reading “Transitions: Ministry Update re Kairos Church”
“I love Jesus but I don’t need the church!”: Is this Biblical?
‘An Apostolic People: Foundations and Features of a Missional Church’ is the first book I’ve picked up in 2026, It’s a quick read. I started and finished on the 1st January. The book was a core text for the Baton course (a leadership development programme for ACUK). The course no longer runs, and has beenContinue reading ““I love Jesus but I don’t need the church!”: Is this Biblical?”
Rev John James 