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Jon is married to Vanessa and is father of Lillian, Eleanor, Henry, Marion and Katherine. He is a graduate of Michigan State University and Calvin Theological Seminary. He formerly served at University Reformed Church in East Lansing, Mich., as the pastor of campus ministry, before moving to Detroit to help with the planting of Redeemer.
Hands preparing soil in a pot with a green plant nearby, symbolizing church planting.
Faith & Evangelism

Church Planting as a Means of Cultural Renewal

We don’t need to overthink strategy with cutting edge cultural insights. We just need to be the doing the hard but simple work of planting.
Jon Saunders
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landscape shot from the shore overlooking the ocean sunset at the end of summer
Faith & Evangelism

3 Ways from Paul to Maximize the End of Summer

The middle of summer is typically a nice slowdown. During this season, be ready for whatever God providentially brings your way, but also be wise to rest during a slow
Jon Saunders
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Young man standing on a mountain overlook at sunrise, symbolizing the hopeful journey of a new pastor.
Faith & Evangelism

10 Things I Wish That I Knew as a New Pastor

Fresh out of seminary I was chomping at the bit; no more Greek flashcards or preparation for ordination exams. I was ready to be an ordained servant of God, trusting
Jon Saunders
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Progress Pride flag with vibrant colors symbolizing LGBTQ+ that is flown during Pride Month.
Engaging the Culture

A Pastoral Reflection on Pride Month

How should a local pastor think about Pride Month? The gay agenda is an issue, but it is not the only issue. The church needs to speak into the issue
Jon Saunders
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The deer pants after water
Faith & Evangelism

To the Cast Down Pastor: Pant For God

“Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me?” This repeated theme of Psalm 42 is the common struggle of many faithful pastors. The constant pressure
Jon Saunders
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Mother in front of church on Mother's Day, holding flowers
Parenting

Mothering and The Mission of the Church

It is difficult for a mom to feel like she is playing a role in this grand mission. How do changing diapers, folding laundry, and running teenagers around town serve
Jon Saunders
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Man considering the theology of money
Faith & Evangelism

Pastor, Don’t Assume a Good Theology of Money

Good news and bad news First for the good news; according to studies through Lifeway Research only 8% of Protestant pastors in the U.S. believe in the prosperity gospel, the
Jon Saunders
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fallen leaves on rainy pavement forming a heart
Faith & Evangelism

Maintaining a Soft Heart Toward Critical People

How do we resist the temptation to grow hard in our hearts toward fellow Christians who are especially difficult to pastor?
Jon Saunders
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People of different colors standing in a circle and putting their hands in the middle
Advocacy for Children

There is Dignity for All of God’s Images Bearers

In the church, we can provide clarity for our people as they shift through the competing voices of culture. The imago dei, or image of God, is the issue of
Jon Saunders
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A shooting star flies above pine trees, reminiscent of the night of the incarnation.
Faith & Evangelism

Christmas Theology: Four Benefits of the Incarnation

The incarnation is God coming near us in love, not pulling away in judgement.
Jon Saunders
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A pastor walks down the aisle of his church to preach.
Faith & Evangelism

On The Need for Pastoral Role Models

Pastor, you need faithful examples to emulate. Look to men who have finished their races well, and find a pastor nearby to walk with you.
Jon Saunders
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A pastor and his wife walk their dog on the beach beneath a cloudy, dusky sky.
Faith & Evangelism

The Sobering Stakes of a Pastor's Life

"Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8).
Jon Saunders
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