This past week, I completed my summer course, Foundational Counselling for Ministry Leaders, and to be honest, it has been one of the best courses I’ve taken during my doctoral studies. It highlighted some significant gaps in pastoral education—especially in contrast to traditional MDiv programs—and offered a powerful blend of biblical insight, psychological research, and practical tools for ministry leaders to support others. The course helped me think more critically about how we prepare leaders for the real-world challenges they’ll face in ministry.

That’s where the discipline of reframing has become a game-changer—not just mentally, but spiritually.

Not Stuart Smalley Stuff

If you’ve ever trained for a sport, you’ve probably heard about positive self-talk. Maybe you’ve even coached people through it. But let me be clear: I’m not talking about that cheesy Saturday Night Live vibe—“I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and gosh darn it, people like me.” – Stuart Smalley

Reframing is different. It’s not pretending things are better than they are. It’s about pausing in the middle of chaos or self-doubt and asking, What’s actually true here?

Identity > Achievement

For me, that question almost always brings me back to the issue of identity.

Even with all the achievements, I still wrestle with that inner critic—“Am I enough?” And honestly, no amount of medals, degrees, or platform success has been able to fully silence that voice. But Scripture and worship help me reframe it.

When I listen to the worship song No Longer Slaves and sing,

“I’m no longer a slave to fear, I am a child of God,”

or when the worship song Jireh reminds me,

“It doesn’t take a trophy to make You proud,”

I feel the shift. That’s reframing in action. My value isn’t in what I produce—it’s in whose I am.

God knew me before I ever stepped onto a platform, into a pulpit, or under a barbell. He chose me. Loved me. Adopted me. And His approval was already secured at the cross.

That kind of love? It re-centers everything.

Reframing as a Discipline

Like any other form of training, reframing gets stronger with practice. Here are four ways to work on it regularly:

1. Journaling.
Write down the lies you’re believing—those distorted thoughts that sneak in—and then next to them, write the truth. Scriptural, logical, grounded truth. Think of it like mental reps.

2. Truth anchors.
Just like athletes prep mantras for performance, I prep “truth anchors” to lean on in tough moments. One of my go-tos: “My worth is not in who I am, but whose I am.”

3. Scripture memory.
Verses like Romans 12:2 and Philippians 4:8 aren’t just theology—they’re tools. They help me retrain my mind like movement patterns, until this truth becomes automatic.

4. Real conversations.
I process things with mentors or close friends. Sometimes just saying the negative thought out loud helps me realize how off-base it is. And other times, someone asks open questions to help me reframe it.

Challenge

Reframing isn’t fluffy. It’s not a mental shortcut or a feel-good slogan. It’s hard, intentional, deeply spiritual work. And if you’re a coach, an athlete, a parent, or a ministry leader, you need this tool in your spiritual training plan.

So here’s my challenge to you:
This week, when your thoughts drift toward fear, defeat, pressure to perform, or other—stop. Breathe. Ask, what’s really true here? And remind yourself of your identity in Christ:
You are not your scoreboard.
You are not your productivity.
You are a child of God.

Have you practiced reframing as a spiritual discipline? I’d love to hear your go-to truth anchors or verses that ground you.

When I stood to preach that morning, I had recently entered the sacred, chaotic fraternity of fathers. I was a new dad then, trying to figure out how to lead a tiny human through a galaxy that rarely makes sense. Today, two boys later—and with a baby girl on the way—I still don’t have the map.

Link to video and audio of the original sermon:

Acts 9. Saul. The road to Damascus. The blinding light. The voice. The fall. The silence. The waiting. The calling. It’s not a quiet text. It thunders. It convicts. But it also whispers something softer beneath the dramatic scene: the quiet certainty that God calls people by name. That He has something for them. That His love is not general but personal. Direct. Relentless.

And that’s what I want to explore here—not just a sermon retold, but a journey re-entered. One where I believe you, like me, will hear your name spoken. And when you do, I want you to be ready to respond.

Star Wars, Saul, and the Myth of the “Bad Guy”

In Dutch, the word for father is Vader. My wife, whose first language is Dutch, used to chuckle when she’d hear someone mention Darth Vader. She knew what it meant: Darth Father. For years, that irony stuck with me. A father who is feared. Powerful. Misunderstood.

And so it fit to use the metaphor on Father’s Day. But I didn’t do it just to be clever. I did it because so many people think about God the same way they think about Darth Vader: cold, distant, powerful, but disinterested in the small details of our lives. A divine enforcer. A cosmic judge.

But that’s not the Father of Scripture.

Saul, as we meet him in Acts 9, is a feared man. He’s breathing threats, hunting down followers of “the Way”—the earliest name for Christians. He’s confident, commanding—dangerous. In our modern lens, we’d label him the villain. The heretic. The enemy.

But what we often forget is this: Saul wasn’t evil in his own eyes. He believed he was right. Zealous for God. He was Protective of the faith of his ancestors. He was, in a sense, trying to be a good son. A faithful son.

“Saul, Saul”—The Voice That Knows You

On the road to Damascus, Saul is stopped by a light so fierce it knocks him to the ground. And then he hears it:

“Saul, Saul. Why are you persecuting me?” (Acts 9:3–4)

It’s not shouted in condemnation. It’s spoken in recognition. Like when a parent says their child’s name twice—not to scold, but to hold their attention. The double naming happens again and again in Scripture: “Abraham, Abraham.” “Moses, Moses.” “Jacob, Jacob.” It’s personal. Intimate. A sign that the One speaking knows the one being addressed.

“Who are you, Lord?” Saul responds (Acts 9:5).

And with those words, the great reversal begins.

This was not a random encounter. This was a divine calling. It’s not just a “conversion,” as we so often say. That word has become clinical. Sanitized. But this wasn’t clean. It was messy. Blinding. Humbling. This was the voice of God stopping a man in his tracks—not to destroy him, but to redirect him.

And here’s what shakes me every time I read this passage: Saul was not looking for Jesus. He wasn’t crying out for the truth. He was on his way to commit violence against Christians. Yet God called him by name. He had a purpose for him. He interrupted his life because the mission was greater than the mistakes.

Ananias—The Forgotten Courage

There’s another man in this story, one we often skip over. Ananias. Just an ordinary believer in Damascus. Not an apostle. Not a teacher. Just a man trying to follow Jesus. And God speaks to him, too.

“Ananias.”

“Here I am, Lord.”
That response moves me. Because it’s the response of someone who knows the voice. Ananias doesn’t ask, “Who are you?” He already knows.

It’s the same response given by Abraham, standing on the mountain with knife in hand, moments before God called out and spared Isaac:
“But the angel of the Lord called to him from heaven and said, ‘Abraham, Abraham!’ And he said, ‘Here I am.'”
(Genesis 22:11)

It’s the same response Moses gave at the burning bush when the God of his ancestors called to him from within the flames:
“When the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, ‘Moses, Moses!’ And he said, ‘Here I am.'”
(Exodus 3:4)

It’s the same response Jacob gave in the stillness of the night when God affirmed His covenant promise:
“And God spoke to Israel in visions of the night and said, ‘Jacob, Jacob.’ And he said, ‘Here I am.'”
(Genesis 46:2)

“Here I am” is not a casual reply. It’s the posture of someone available. Someone attentive. Someone ready to be interrupted by the divine. It signals a heart that recognizes the voice of its Maker—not as a stranger, but as a Father.

And yet, Saul doesn’t say that. His answer on the Damascus road is different:
“Who are you, Lord?” (Acts 9:5).

He hears the voice, but he doesn’t know it yet. There is no familiarity—only fear and confusion. And in that moment, his eyes are not opened—they are shut. Blinded by the brilliance of God’s presence, Saul must now be led by the hand like a child.

It’s no accident. The man who was once so certain, so self-directed, is suddenly dependent. Disoriented. Humbled.

He hears the voice of Jesus, but he cannot yet see Him. He listens, but he doesn’t yet understand the mercy that undergirds the message. His world has gone dark so that his heart can begin to see.

Ananias, on the other hand, stands in the long line of those who knew the call of God was not always comfortable but always trustworthy. His “Here I am” places him in the great tradition of faithful response—of those willing to risk everything simply because the voice was familiar.

And maybe that’s the mark of a mature faith—not the absence of fear, but the ability to say, “Here I am,” even when the road ahead is uncertain.

The question is: will he[Ananias] obey?

God tells him to go find Saul—the same Saul who had been dragging men and women out of their homes for believing in Jesus. Ananias objects—not rebelliously, but honestly. He’s scared. And rightly so. But God doesn’t flinch.

“Go, for he[Saul] is my chosen instrument.” (Acts 9:15)

God had already gone ahead. He had already prepared Saul. And now He was inviting Ananias to be part of the story.

That’s what calling looks like. It’s not always dramatic. Sometimes, it’s just hearing God ask you to do something uncomfortable. To take a step toward someone who scares you. To forgive. To speak. To pray. To go.

And sometimes—maybe more often than not—calling shows up in the ordinary. In quiet obedience. In private courage. In small acts of faithfulness that no one else sees.

That’s where Ananias meets us—not on a stage, but in a house on Straight Street, laying hands on the most dangerous man in the city because God told him to. His story reminds us that calling often comes not in a shout but in a whisper—and obedience is proven not in the ease of the task but in the willingness to say yes.

Like Ananias, I’ve discovered that obedience isn’t always dramatic. Sometimes, it looks like this: walking through the front door and choosing to say yes to the little voices calling your name.

Fatherhood in the Tension

Being a dad has a way of bringing Scripture to life—especially the uncomfortable parts.

There are days I come home, and all I want is five minutes of silence. But my boys don’t see that. They see Dad. They see fun. They see safety. They see access.

And sometimes, my response has been: “Just give me a minute.”

But then I think of Jesus. On His way to the cross—carrying the emotional weight of the world—and still, He makes time for children. The disciples try to shoo them away, but Jesus stops them:

“Let the little children come to me.” (Matthew 19:14)

He wasn’t too busy. He wasn’t too tired. He wasn’t distracted by the magnitude of His mission. He was present. Compassionate. Attentive.

He was the kind of man I hope to be more often—the kind who sees children not as an interruption but as image-bearers worthy of time, attention, and love.

The truth is, I fall short. I know it. My kids will know it, too. But that’s not the end of the story.

Because while I am an imperfect father, God the Father is not. Where I am inconsistent, He is steady. Where I run out of patience, He is slow to anger and rich in love (Psalm 145:8). Where I sometimes say, “Not now,” He never turns His face away.

Psalm 139 reminds me that God saw me before anyone else did. That He knit me together. That He knows my thoughts, my ways, my fears. He knows the parts of me I haven’t said out loud. And still—He calls me by name.

“You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” —Psalm 139:13

That same Father sees my kids. He knows their steps before they take them. And where I fail, He remains. When I run out of energy or patience, He doesn’t. When I need forgiveness, He gives it. When I want to give up, He speaks again:

“Mark. Mark.”

This Is Your Call, Too

You might be Saul. Charging forward in life, thinking you’re doing everything right—but blind to the truth that God wants your heart, not your resume.

You might be Ananias. Hesitant. Tired. Afraid. But still listening. Still willing.

Or maybe you’re a father like me. Trying. Failing. Learning. Carrying both guilt and grace in your hands at the same time.

Wherever you are, this much is true:

God is calling. Not with coercion. Not with force. But with love. With intention. With your name.

Not because you’ve earned it. Not because you’ve figured everything out. But because He made you, He knows you, and He desires a relationship with you.

“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine.”
—Isaiah 43:1

He doesn’t call perfect people. He calls willing ones.

And when He calls, you’re not obligated—you’re invited. You get to choose. To say yes. To step forward. To trust that even if the road ahead is uncertain, the One who walks with you is faithful.

“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”
—Matthew 4:19

So what does He ask?

Not for a cleaned-up version of you. Not for religious performance. Not for hollow rituals. He asks for your presence. For your response.

“Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” —1 Samuel 3:10
“Here I am.” —Genesis 22:1, Exodus 3:4, Acts 9:10

Because God doesn’t want something from you—He offers something for you.
A path. A purpose. A name in His story that only you can carry.

“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” —Ephesians 2:10

This is the way.
And it’s open to all who are willing to walk it.

If you’ve ever found yourself sipping protein shakes instead of eating real meals—or binging podcasts and devotionals but rarely opening your Bible—this blog is for you. Drawing from the world of high-performance sport and theological study, Mark issues a bold (and slightly cheeky) challenge rooted in Hebrews 5, Get off the teat and eat the meat. It’s time to move beyond spiritual supplements and start feasting on the real, soul-nourishing Word of God.

In the world of sport performance, one of the biggest rookie mistakes is confusing supplements with sustenance. Walk into any gym and you’ll see people shaking up protein drinks, and downing pre-workout powders. However, the harsh reality is that supplements do not serve as meals. They’re not meant to replace real food. They are meant to supplement—to add to—a diet built on foundational, nutrient-dense fuel. Relying on them as the main thing is like trying to grow on baby formula when you were made to thrive on steak.

Hebrews 5:12–6:2 gives us a spiritual parallel so direct it’s almost uncomfortable. The author rebukes believers who, by this point, ought to be teaching others but still need someone to explain the ABCs of God’s truth. “You need milk, not solid food,” he writes. These are adults clinging to baby bottles. And in the Greek, the imagery is even more striking: it’s not just milk—it’s the teat. The passage is a wake-up call: get off the teat, and eat the meat.

Supplements vs. Sustenance in Faith

There’s nothing wrong with milk—for a season. Infants need it. New believers need foundational teaching, basic encouragement, and time to adjust. But one can’t stay there. At some point, one must grow. And that growth requires meat. Not just theologically, but relationally with Christ.

In the fitness world, real food builds muscle. Protein powders might help, but chicken, steak, eggs, and fish are what actually fuel hypertrophy and recovery. Likewise, in the faith journey, podcasts, blogs (even this one), YouTube devotionals, and daily verse apps are helpful—but they are not the meat. They are supplements. If they become your primary intake, your spiritual growth will stall, and your discernment will suffer.

What’s the meat? Hebrews defines it as training in righteousness. It’s a deep engagement with Scripture. Not just reading words, but being read by the Word. It’s chewing on passages until they chew on you. It’s growing in discernment—not just knowing what’s right, but training your senses to distinguish good from evil (Heb. 5:14). This comes not by casual listening but by constant practice.

What Are You Actually Feeding On?

Ask any elite coach: the athlete who lives on shakes and energy drinks is not the one who thrives long-term. Eventually, their lack of proper fuel will catch up to them—injuries, fatigue, or plateau. And the same is true in your walk with Christ.

If your faith is built primarily on second-hand spiritual content—sermons, reels, catchy quotes—you may feel full for a while, but it won’t sustain you in trial. Why? Because it wasn’t designed to. Only direct interaction with Jesus—the Word made flesh (John 1:1)—has the power to truly transform.

Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that the Word of God is living and active. It’s not a dead book or an old theology text. It cuts, it convicts, and it corrects. It shapes. And it feeds the soul in a way no supplement can.

A Call to Grow

Growing in faith is much like progressing in sport. At first, everything is exciting and novel. But growth demands more. You need discipline, structure, and yes, real food. Eventually, your faith must mature past Instagram devotionals and 10-minute prayers. Eventually, you must step into the gym of God’s Word, sweat through its challenges, and allow it to rebuild you.

Paul echoes this in 1 Corinthians 13:11—“When I was a child, I spoke like a child, thought like a child, reasoned like a child. But when I became a man, I gave up childish ways.” It’s time to grow up. Time to move on from milk. Time to dig in to the meat.

So, What Does “Eating the Meat” Look Like?

• Daily engagement with Scripture—not just reading, but study, meditation, and memorization.
• Seeking spiritual disciplines that challenge you—prayer, fasting, worship, solitude.
• Living out the Word—not being a hearer only but a doer (James 1:22).
• Finding a community that calls you higher and holds you accountable.
• Teaching others—as Hebrews says, you should be teaching by now. You grow as you give.

Get Off the Teat, Eat the Meat

Brother/Sister, the world is full of spiritual supplements. And they have their place. But they can’t replace the real thing. You were not designed to sip endlessly. You were made to feast. The Spirit is calling you to maturity—to strength—to depth.

Train your soul like you train your body—intentionally, daily, and with the real stuff. Step up. Grow deep. And feast on Christ.

Get off the teat. Eat the meat.

This piece started as a personal reflection on Good Friday—just me trying to make sense of some thoughts that had been rattling around in my head. I didn’t plan on sharing it publicly, but the more I sat with it, the more I realized it might resonate with others who, like me, are trying to live out their faith in the tension between tradition and authenticity. It’s a mix of story, theology, and real-life wrestling, with some hockey and church hunting thrown in for good measure. I hope this gives you something meaningful to think about.

I’m thrilled to share the third (and final) installment of my mini-series on biblical leadership. This blog post is actually a copy of the short handbook/ebook I created for a Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program assignment.

The Book of Judges documents Israel’s chaotic times from Joshua’s death to the establishment of its monarchy. This historical period experienced spiritual deterioration alongside moral ambiguity and repeated cycles of insurrection. Despite its depiction of tragedy and failure, the Book of Judges remains a key source of important leadership teachings. The handbook reinterprets the leadership framework narrative for current ministry leaders. Each chapter explores a distinct leadership principle derived from the J.U.D.G.E.S. acrostic—Justice, Unity, Dependence on God, Guidance, Everyone, and Strategy—emerging not from abstraction, but from the lived narratives of Israel’s leaders, both faithful and flawed.

If you’ve ever wanted an evaluation framework for judging leadership or simply need some encouragement in your ministry journey, this is for you!

Check it out, leave a comment, and stay tuned for another series. Together, let’s continue growing in faith, leadership, and the joy of serving others. Happy reading!

I’m thrilled to share the second installment of my mini-series on biblical leadership. This blog post is actually a copy of the short handbook/ebook I created for a Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program assignment.

First and Second Timothy, along with Titus, share a common purpose: to ensure the stability, integrity, and growth of emerging congregations through strong, spiritually grounded leadership. Within these epistles, we discover the C.O.S.T. of Biblical leadership:

C: Character and Moral Integrity – Living out the gospel message.
O: Organizational Health – Establishing robust and responsible structures.
S: Sound Doctrine – Upholding truth in teaching and preaching.
T: Transformation and Service – Leading others toward spiritual growth.

If you’ve ever wanted a blueprint for investing in leadership or simply need some encouragement in your ministry journey, this is for you!

Check it out, leave a comment, and stay tuned for the next parts of the series. Together, let’s continue growing in faith, leadership, and the joy of serving others. Happy reading!

The Doctor of Ministry program has led me to focus extensively on how sports coaching principles can enhance ministry leadership. This reflection examines my selected topic’s significance while evaluating its potential influence on broader ministry contexts. It identifies four reasons that support my belief in the substantial benefits my dissertation project will bring to the church and its ministries.

I introduce four foundational pillars of Spirit-led leadership—Anointing, Collaboration, Transformation, and Strategic Adaptability (A.C.T.S.). We’ll explore how early church leaders relied on the Holy Spirit to guide their decisions, foster unity, and spark real change in their communities. If you’ve ever wanted a blueprint for faith-driven leadership or simply need some encouragement in your ministry journey, this is for you!

Check it out, leave a comment, and stay tuned for the next parts of the series. Together, let’s continue growing in faith, leadership, and the joy of serving others. Happy reading!

In this episode of the podcast, Mark interviews Anna Fitch Courie about her newest book, Walking with God: The 40-Day Fitness Program and Biblical Journey. Anna explores forty biblical journeys and how they can help us improve our physical and spiritual well-being.

October 31st marks a day of historical significance, especially in the Protestant tradition, as the day Martin Luther is famously fabled to have nailed his 95 Theses to the door of Wittenberg’s Castle Church (more likely is that he sent out manuscripts). Luther’s stand against the moral and spiritual failings he saw within the church sparked a movement toward reformation, revival, and a return to scriptural truth.

Once a stronghold of the Protestant faith, the Netherlands has quietly drifted into secularism. Historically, the church here was so vibrant that wars were fought to establish the Netherlands as a Protestant nation. Yet today, the very faith that once shaped society has become nearly irrelevant. National holidays such as Good Friday, Easter, Ascension, Pentecost, and Christmas, rooted in Christian tradition, now pass with little mention of their spiritual significance. The church has failed to uphold these symbols of faith, allowing them to fade into secularized celebrations with no connection to the Gospel. As a result, we are witnessing the signs of a dead or dying church, both nationally and locally.

Reflecting on my experiences in the Netherlands over the past two years, I am moved to speak up about a similar need for renewal, though now the challenges look different. I do so out of genuine concern and love for the church. This is not a call to condemnation but a plea for revival—a return to the vine, abiding in Christ, and bearing fruit.

Are we “doing church” in ways that are faithful to the gospel, or have we, too, succumbed to modern-day indulgences, empty traditions, or misguided theology?

The Signs of a Dying Church

A church that has drifted from its foundation will inevitably show signs of spiritual decay. The following indicators, drawn from Scripture and observed reality, reveal some signs of a church losing its life and influence.

1. Loss of Cultural Influence

Throughout history, the church has been a force that has shaped societies, upheld moral standards, and impacted culture. Yet today, many churches across the Netherlands (and much of the West) hold little influence in public discourse. In Matthew 5:13, Jesus calls His followers to be “the salt of the earth,” preserving and enriching society. A church alive in Christ influences the culture around it, not vice versa. In John 17:15-18, Jesus prays for His followers, asking not that they be taken out of the world but that they be kept from evil—set apart as holy yet actively present within the world. When a church loses its voice, it’s often a sign that it is dying. In the Netherlands, secularism has risen not only because of societal shifts but also because the church has failed to be a relevant and transformative presence.

2. Financial Strain: The Result of Spiritual Death

A dying church is often marked by financial struggles. While financial strain can occur for various reasons, the Bible underscores that genuine believers contribute to the church’s needs out of love and commitment to God. Tithing and giving are acts of worship, reflecting a heart devoted to God’s mission. Malachi 3:10 challenges God’s people to “bring the full tithe into the storehouse,” with a promise of blessing in return. In my experience, I’ve seen churches with hundreds of congregants operating on remarkably small annual budgets. I’ve also encountered significant challenges in raising funds for ministry causes.

In the Netherlands, there’s a common saying that people “sit on their money,” a cultural tendency to hold tightly to financial resources rather than give freely. Yet, the church should stand in stark contrast to this mindset. As believers, we’re called to live with open hands, knowing “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). When churchgoers (specifically not using the word members) are alive in Christ, their giving flows naturally, allowing the church to support its ministries and fulfill its mission. In a spiritually vibrant church, financial health reflects the genuine devotion of its people, who recognize that all they have belongs to God.

3. Loss of Missionary and Outreach Focus

One of the most apparent indicators of a church’s spiritual health is its passion for evangelism, a vital expression of the Holy Spirit’s presence. Christ’s teachings, consistently upheld by the early church, establish evangelism as a natural outflow of spiritual rebirth. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 calls all believers—not merely those in official ministry positions—to “go and make disciples of all nations.” This mission depends on the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, who stirs believers to reach beyond the church walls to a world in need. In a dying church, however, this Spirit-driven compulsion to bear witness is often absent, leaving faith to turn inward, focused more on personal piety than on sharing the love of Christ with those who are spiritually hungry.

In Dutch culture, the emphasis on privacy and reserve has led many Christians to keep their faith contained within the boundaries of personal morality rather than proclaiming it openly. A dying church mirrors this compartmentalization, treating faith as a private possession rather than a transformative force meant to impact others. Yet Scripture reveals that the Holy Spirit’s role is to affirm believers in private faith and drive them outward, compelling bold proclamation. The absence of this evangelistic zeal marks a church whose engagement with the Spirit’s work is incomplete; a Spirit-led church does not grow stagnant but boldly bears witness (Acts 1:8).

I have witnessed many traditional churches physically enclosed by fences, some even bordered by a moat. While water management is indeed a priority here, from a theological and outreach perspective, a locked gate around a church seems inconsistent with the mission to be open and welcoming to the community. This unintentional barrier sends a message at odds with the church’s outreach goals, implying that the church is a sanctuary only for those who are already within its walls. In contrast, a living church will take Christ’s command to heart, actively seeking opportunities to be a light in the community, engaging the world rather than closing itself off from it.

4. Rigid or Irrelevant Traditions

The Bible warns against the dangers of clinging to human traditions over God’s Word. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees in Matthew 15:6 for making “void the word of God” through their traditions. Many churches in the Netherlands hold fast to practices that no longer resonate with contemporary culture. Traditions can have value but must be reevaluated when they hinder rather than help people encounter Christ. A living church is willing to adapt its methods to reach new generations, while a dying church clings to outdated forms that stifle growth.

5. Minimal Community Impact

A vibrant church leaves a lasting impact on its community, reaching out with compassion, support, and hope to those in need. James 1:27 reminds us that true religion involves caring for “orphans and widows” while remaining “unstained from the world.” In the Netherlands, I have seen churches invested in supporting vulnerable groups—clear evidence that compassion and a desire to serve are present within the church. However, with a greater commitment to giving and a renewed dedication to tithing, the church could do even more, furthering its mission to be a true beacon of hope and service.

Jesus’ warning to the Pharisees in Matthew 23:27-28 provides an insightful reminder for the church today: “For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people’s bones.” A church may look active and engaged on the outside but can risk becoming spiritually dead if focused more on works rather than embracing the fullness of a Spirit-filled life that flows from a genuine commitment to Christ. A church alive in Christ doesn’t merely appear active—it moves with power, impact, and purpose, touching the lives around it in a way that only the true Gospel can.

Abiding in the Vine: The Source of Life and Fruitfulness

The Bible speaks clearly about the condition of a spiritually dead church, contrasting it with the vitality that flows from abiding in Christ. In John 15:1-6, Jesus makes a powerful declaration: “I am the vine; you are the branches.” This image of the vine and branches captures the essence of the church’s purpose and strength, for a church must “abide” in Christ if it is to bear fruit. This connection to Jesus is not merely symbolic; it is the source of a church’s life, vitality, and impact, the very foundation upon which every aspect of ministry depends.

A church that places Christ at its center will demonstrate visible fruit in transformed lives, outreach, and a positive influence on the surrounding culture. Such a church is known for its passion for mission, commitment to giving generously, and concern for the community’s needs. When believers genuinely abide, they are equipped and empowered to fulfill the Great Commission, to love their neighbors.

However, the church begins to wither when this connection to the vine is neglected. Severed from the source of life, it loses its sense of purpose, power, and influence. Without the nourishing presence of Christ, the church becomes vulnerable to distraction, inward focus, and spiritual decay, quickly devolving into a mere institution that maintains its structure but lacks its Spirit. Such churches may hold services, keep traditions, and preserve appearances, but without a genuine connection to Christ, they cease to bear lasting fruit.

The call to abide is especially urgent in the Netherlands, a nation that once stood as a bastion of Protestant faith yet now drifts further into secularism. Now is the time for the church in the Netherlands to examine itself honestly and ask, “Are we withering on the vine?”

The Call to Repentance and Revival

The Bible repeatedly calls the church to repentance. In Revelation 3:1-3, Jesus rebukes the church in Sardis, which “has a reputation of being alive, but is dead.” His call to “wake up” and “strengthen what remains” applies to today’s church. Revival starts with honest self-examination, a willingness to repent, and a return to the foundational practices of faith. This includes a renewed commitment to prayer, worship, discipleship, and evangelism.

The Parable of the Talents offers a sobering illustration of what it means to steward the gifts and responsibilities entrusted to us by God. In this parable, the servants who wisely invest what they have been given are commended, while the servant who buries his talent out of fear and complacency is rebuked and cast out (Matthew 25:14-30). This parable speaks directly to the church, reminding us not to guard the Gospel passively but to share, grow, and invest in it. A church that is alive will actively steward its resources, people, and influence to bear fruit, while a dying church will shrink back, neglecting the very mission it has been given. Just as the servant’s failure led to judgment, so does a church’s unwillingness to live out its calling, placing it at risk of becoming irrelevant and spiritually barren.

Revival is not merely about filling pews but rekindling a passion for Jesus that impacts every aspect of life. Ephesians 4:1-4 reminds us to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling” we have received, emphasizing unity and love within the body of Christ. We are called to be “eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace,” working together for God’s purposes.

Navigating the Barriers to Change

A crucial challenge to revival in the Netherlands is the strong sense of “rightness” rooted not only in the church’s tradition but in the culture at large. Deeply embedded within Dutch society is a conviction that “our way is correct.” While not typically boastful, the Dutch take pride in their knowledge and history and can resist foreign perspectives, particularly when those touch on cultural or spiritual matters. There exists a subtle dual mindset: First, “Who are you, a foreigner, to tell the Dutch people, who are wise in their own way, that you know a better path?” Second, “This is the Netherlands, and while you are welcome here, it is not for you to reshape our way of life or values. This is our country.”

These sentiments have recently gained momentum in the political sphere, with the growing popularity of Geert Wilders, who has garnered the largest vote share in the recent Federal election. Wilders’ rhetoric often emphasizes Dutch identity over multiculturalism and advocates for policies that reflect a strong desire to “protect” Dutch culture. While these policies are divisive, they resonate with a significant portion of the population who feel compelled to declare, “We are Dutch; this is our country.” This sentiment, however, has far less to do with a revival of Protestant values than with a cultural assertion of identity.

This reluctance to embrace change or outside perspectives presents a significant challenge for the church. Genuine revival requires a willingness to question long-held theology and traditions, to set aside pride, and to examine whether theology and tradition align with Christ’s teachings or merely with cultural heritage. True reformation calls for humility—a quality essential if the church in the Netherlands is to rediscover the heart of the Gospel and bear fruit once again. Only by setting aside an inward-facing mindset and engaging humbly with the call to discipleship and service can the church hope to fulfill its mission.

A Vision for the Future

For the church in the Netherlands to experience revival, it must be passionately connected to the true source of life: Jesus Christ. This cannot be achieved by simply going through the motions, clinging to traditions, or preserving institutions for appearances. True revival demands a commitment to seek God earnestly, to pray fervently for renewal, and to embrace the calling to be the salt and light that this culture desperately needs.

The reformers, like Martin Luther, were not content to quietly watch the church lose its way. They were driven by a profound passion for Christ, and, much like the disciples, they embraced boldness even in the face of persecution. Their willingness to stand for truth, no matter the cost, sparked a reformation that changed the course of history. Today, the same spirit of courage and conviction is needed. We are called to pursue revival with this same passion, trusting that God’s power can transform our communities and reignite the flame of faith across this nation.

There is a generational cycle within the church—a pattern we have seen repeated throughout history. The builder generation, the builders, are those who risk, labor, and sacrifice to establish something lasting. The next generation steps in as maintainers, diligently working to preserve what the builders fought to establish, ensuring it endures for the future. The subsequent generation, however, often becomes the squanderers. Without having experienced the struggles of the past, they can easily lose sight of the value and purpose behind what they’ve inherited. Lacking proper guidance and grounding, they risk squandering the legacy handed down to them, leaving the church weakened. The cycle then begins anew, as the fourth generation must once again rise up, taking on the responsibility of rebuilding and reviving what has been lost.

In many ways, the church in the Netherlands is living like the squanderer generation, allowing the heritage of faith, sacrifice, and spiritual influence to fade. Yet, there is hope! The next generation of builders will rise up to restore what has been lost and bring revival to what has become spiritually barren.

This revival will only come through a renewed commitment to true discipleship. The call is not for shallow engagement or casual belief but for a deep, multiplying discipleship—disciples who make disciples, who make disciples who make disciples. As Jesus commanded, our mission is to “go and make disciples of all nations,” and this must be the bedrock of any vision for revival.

Just as Luther’s 95 Theses challenged a complacent church to return to its foundation, we, too, have an opportunity—and a responsibility—to pursue a revival that can transform our churches, communities, and nation. The time has come for the church to rise up, repent, and reclaim its role as a beacon of hope, truth, and love. May we return to the vine, abide in Christ, and allow Him to bring new life to His church for His glory.

About the Author

Mark Oxer holds a Bachelor’s degree in Youth Ministry and a Master’s in Christian Leadership, graduating magna cum laude. With a rich background in both church and parachurch leadership roles, he brings a seasoned perspective on discipleship, pastoral care, and church revitalization. Over his life, Mark has faithfully served as a ministry leader, developing and mentoring believers within diverse congregations and organizations. His dedication to equipping others extends to his role as a lecturer at faith-based institutions, where he teaches on leadership, spiritual formation, and biblical foundations, inspiring students to live out their faith with integrity and impact. Mark remains deeply committed to fostering spiritual renewal in the Church through his writing and teaching.

God’s grip on us is greater than our grip on Him.

Just like our grip in the gym, our spiritual grip can sometimes feel weak or uncertain. But the beauty of it all is that while we work on strengthening our grip, both physically and spiritually, God’s grip on us never falters. His hold is complete and unwavering, ensuring that even when we feel like letting go, we are still secure in His embrace.

REBOOT! The “Faith and Fitness” podcast is back and better than ever! After a little hiatus, Mark is rebooting the podcast with fresh energy, new insights, and even more passion for helping you crush your fitness goals while deepening your faith. Whether you’re into powerlifting, functional fitness, marathon running, or prayerful meditation, we’ve got something for you. Tune in as Mark will dive into topics like fasting for the soul and body, balancing Sabbath rest with recovery, and setting goals that honor God and your health. So dust off those earbuds and get ready to reignite your journey with us. Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you!

The reboot’s first episode will discuss the Will Durant quote misattributed to Aristotle: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.”

In this episode Mark talks about Covid19 and asks the question “what will be your new normal?”

In this episode Mark shares a chapter from the the book series The Singer Trilogy by Calvin Miller, and provides encouragement that “what looks like death can become your greatest victory”.

In this episode Mark talks about: weight loss, fat, muscle and gives tips on how to exercise most efficiently.

In this episode Mark interviews co-owner of Kornerstone Barbell, Kurt Kornelsen. For more information check out their website https://www.kornerstonebarbell.com/

In this episode Mark talks about: competitive powerlifting, going through a tough personal event, and stepping back to take perspective.

Episode 11: Fuelled by Purpose

In this episode Mark is at Crossroads Church in Selkirk, Manitoba and he shares from Joshua 24:1-15. He uses this text as a platform to ask the the what and more importantly the why of living out our lives.

In this episode Mark and Tim discuss the topic of people feeling ‘intimidated’ by the gym. They build on this by further discussing the concept that people try to get their physical health to a ‘level’ before joining a gym or a fitness class, and how people will try to get their spiritual health to a ‘place’ before going to a church or becoming a follower of Christ.

In this episode Mark and Tim discuss peaks and valleys in both fitness and faith journeys. Mark talks about his experiences hiking and the importance of having the right guide and trusting that guide, and the parallel this has to faith.

Photo credit: Shauna Marble

Episode 7: What’s the frequency Kenneth? – Rest and Recovery

In this episode Tim and Mark discuss rest and recovery. The topic of rest is emphasized with the subject of sleep and how the frequency emitted from our tv’s and smart devices is having a negative affect on us. Recovery is discussed in a practical way using a point system. Scripture for the episode; Matthew 11:28, Psalm 127:1-2

For college and university students in North America its exam time! In this episode Mark and Tim discuss being tested both physically and spiritually. They also ask the question who is your trainer preparing you to be tested?

Scripture: Malachi 3:10, Luke 4:12, Psalms 139:23-24, Hebrews 4:12-16

In this episode Mark and Tim discuss the importance of guarding your heart, both physically and spiritually, and how to monitor your heart appropriately both physically and spiritually.

Theme verse for the episode – Proverbs 4:23 “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

In this episode Tim and Mark talk about Ash Wednesday/Lent and the practice is giving something up. They also talk discuss this time of year is when gym attendance drops off, and and how people can press on towards their goals.

Scripture for this episode is Philippians 3:14 –  “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

In this special episode Pastor Tim invited Mark to give a sermon on the topic of faith and fitness. Mark presents the FITT principle and how we can apply it to both our physical and spiritual training.

Click on the text below to get the powerpoint slides to go along with the sermon:

Faith and FITTness

In episode 2, I mentioned that one of our lifters was competing in a powerlifting competition. Below is a link to the news article about her performance, needless to say I am very proud of her!

http://www.oldsalbertan.ca/article/20150203/OLD1101/302039955/-1/old

In this episode Mark and Tim build on last episodes discussion of New Year’s resolutions, encouragement to remove some of the clutter from our lives so that we can commit consistently to our goals. Scripture for this episode is Romans 12:2

Bass and Drums by Rick Dickert provided by freesoundtrackmusic.com

Episode 1: New Year, New You!

In this episode you meet host Mark Oxer, and co-host Tim Bowen. The theme verse for this episode is 1 Timothy 4:8

We talk about New Years Resolutions and the relationship between spiritual and physical training.

Bass and Drums by Rick Dickert provided by freesoundtrackmusic.com

Here is the link to the newspaper interview referenced in the podcast

http://www.oldsalbertan.ca/article/20150113/OLD1101/301139952/-1/old