James Macdonald Quotes

Small groups are the place to push past Bible knowledge and on to life application so that we can see people's lives transform more and more into the image of Christ.

~ James Macdonald

If our counseling is truly Christ-centered, then the topic of forgiveness will inevitably come up in the journey toward growth and change.

~ James Macdonald

If spiritual formation is the purpose of the church, then personal transformation should intentionally be the purpose of the small group ministry. Bible study is great. Fellowship is wonderful. Evangelism is essential. But changing and growing to be more like Christ should be the purpose of the small group ministry.

~ James Macdonald

Many pastors would rather preach God's Word and keep their distance than invest in a personal one-on-one counseling ministry. Most pastors counsel because they have to, not because they want to.

~ James Macdonald

Word-centered people who enter counseling will be more likely follow the guidance set out in Scripture. Because they know more of the depth of their sin, they are more willing to allow other church members to help them stay on that right path.

~ James Macdonald

Counseling is ultimately not about the counselee or the counselor, but about the Divine Counselor.

~ James Macdonald

We are less interested in the number of disciples and more interested in the quality of discipleship.

~ James Macdonald

Human sin is stubborn, but not as stubborn as the grace of God and not half as persistent, not half so ready to suffer to win its way

~ James Macdonald

The body of Christ is about doing life together, and by doing life together sin is revealed.

~ James Macdonald

I experience transcendence when something infinite reminds me I am finite.

~ James Macdonald

To disrespect a person made in the image and likeness of God is a lot worse than desecrating a flag. We should be offended and repulsed in the same way when God's image bearers are desecrated – abused, beaten, neglected, discriminated against, and not loved and taken care of as they should be.

~ James Macdonald