Matthew Ruttan

Category: Blogs

  • Converting Again for the First Time

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    by

    Matthew Ruttan
    in

    The word “conversion” means change, transformation, crossing over from point A to point B.  Each conversion means something new.  Point A to B.  Then B to C.  Then C to D.   When you hear the word “conversion” it’s often about someone changing faiths.  Or at least from nothing to something. But I imagine conversion…

  • How Can I Support The Minister?

    How Can I Support The Minister?

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    by

    Matthew Ruttan
    in

    This is a short and simple blog. Most of you know I’m a minister (or ‘pastor.’)  The vocation involves a lot of things. Many joy-filled, many challenging, many exciting things.  I learn every day in the river of God’s mysteries.  I heard Herb Gale speak at a conference today and he said: “I encourage you…

  • Helping Our Kids Have Faith

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    Matthew Ruttan
    in

    Will our kids believe? Do they?  This is a big question.  Even before I had kids I was reading about our own homes being mission fields, especially in an age of scepticism. Faith is vital.  Many of us are passionate about cultivating faith in our children, especially in a faith-phobic time.  According to studies, religious experience/education…

  • Got Doubt? Doubt Faithfully

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    Matthew Ruttan
    in

    Ever feel like an outsider because you have had some doubts?  In your faith?  As if everyone else has seen Jesus personally and therefore exudes a thick confidence—an invisible wall that separates the ‘haves’ and the ‘have nots’? Will Ingram pointed out someone who said, “As the island of human knowledge expands, so too does…

  • How Do You Talk To Your Kids About Easter?

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    by

    Matthew Ruttan
    in

    I was chatting with a parent this week. She wanted to be thoughtful and faithful about it.  Yes, the Easter bunny is around.  But how do we go deeper?  How do we teach our children about this founding event of the empty tomb without belittling it with just chocolate and sugar highs? Christmas is easier.  It’s…

  • The 411 on Holy Week Words

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    by

    Matthew Ruttan
    in

    (Warning: The content about crucifixion is for mature audiences.) benedictus qui venit!  Huh? I was in an airport recently and overheard people talking in a different language. I couldn’t understand a single thing.  Then it struck me: Often faith language can seem like a foreign language to many people.  And during called Holy Week this can…