iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 8h

Thinline Bibles are among my favorites. They are built to be carried. The ESV Large Print Thinline Reference Bible is excellent. It includes translator notes, cross-references, and more. A blog post on @patheosHQ and @PatheosEvang. www.patheos.com/blogs/leadaq...

patheos.com

ESV Large Print Thinline Reference Bible Review

A review of the ESV Large Print Thinline Reference Bible, exploring its readability, references, translation, and use in everyday life.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 06/10/2026

“The revival which many are longing and praying for must begin with this: the return of Christian ministers and workers to their true place before—in Christ and like Christ, one of complete dependence and continual waiting on God to work in them.” - Andrew Murray, Working for God

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

The Lord’s Prayer isn’t merely something we say it is also a way Jesus taught us to live. I reviewed Brad Gray & Brad Nelson’s The Lord’s Prayer. www.jeffmclain.com/the-lords-pr...

jeffmclain.com

The Lord’s Prayer: A Review of Bringing Heaven Here

A reflection on Brad Gray and Brad Nelson’s Bringing Heaven Here, exploring how context and practice make the Lord's Prayer a way of life.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

“Abundance can breed amnesia. Poverty can lead to desperation.” - Brad Gray & Brad Nelson, Bringing Heaven Here

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 27/09/2026

The Phillies. I was ready to fire them all with little to no remorse, but they have me believing again. Postseason for the 5th straight season.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

Maybe the question isn’t how we build a better church platform, but whether we’ve made the platform necessary in the first place.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

More than ever, I think we need to wrestle with Jesus’ words, “where two or three are gathered in my name” (Matthew 18:20), and his instruction, “Freely you have received; freely give” (Matthew 10:8).

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

The church has been used by God in my life, and I’ve served as a pastoral leader within it. However, I’m increasingly convinced we need to ask a deeper question: Are we actually becoming the church Jesus intended, or simply getting better at doing platform church?

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

I’m increasingly convinced the church needs more than a better strategy for “fixing” the church. Discipleship, missiology, APEST, and new models can still reproduce the business-driven, platformed church they’re trying to repair. These worlds are full of coaches, book deals, and paid programs.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

I’m convinced the danger of Evangelicalism today isn’t that we misunderstand Jesus. It’s that we refuse to understand him and then spend our mental energy finding ways to explain why we don’t have to do what he said.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 12/09/2026

Can a Bible be both free and trustworthy? I started researching that question after digging into the New English Translation—and I found more options than I expected. A blog post on @patheos.com www.patheos.com/blogs/leadaq...

patheos.com

Can A Bible Be Both Free And Trustworthy?

Can a Bible Be Both Free and Trustworthy? Exploring eight accessible, open, and less copyright-restricted English Bible translations.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

Our prayer begins with confessing and understanding God’s character. This is a prayerful confession to practice even in crisis. A blog post on @patheos.com. www.patheos.com/blogs/leadaq...

patheos.com

Learning To Confess And Understand Our Father Even In Crisis

Our Father. In the middle of fear, uncertainty, and unanswered questions, learning to trust the character of the God who holds us.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

“Praying “Holy be your name” is how we stay centered and recalibrated for this new way of being in the world.” - Brad Gray & Brad Nelson

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

We’re humbled by the kindness already shown to our family. Katie’s recovery will mean specialists bills and lost income for a season. If you feel led to help, some friends set up a GoFundMe. gofund.me/ba5bc9baa

gofund.me

Donate to Standing with the McLain Family, organized by Jenn Esbenshade

On August 27, Katie had a seizure at work and sustained numerous injuries in a resul… Jenn Esbenshade needs your support for Standing with the McLain Family

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

Some of you may know that my wife suffered a seizure while working. She fractured her skull and temporal bone, damaged her ear canal, and sustained other significant injuries. After days in the hospital, she’s home. We’re grateful for the care of many friends, and we’re asking for continued prayers.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

Perhaps the deeper question Jesus is asking isn’t simply, “If this is all that I have for you, are you okay with it?” Perhaps he is asking, “Am I enough for you?” A Lead a Quiet Life Blog post on @patheos.com www.patheos.com/blogs/leadaq...

patheos.com

If This Is All That I Have For You (Proverbs 14:30)

Proverbs 14:30 calls us toward a tranquil heart. What if learning contentment begins by trusting that God is enough?

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

Friend, I respect you. Nothing I’ve said is hateful. I won’t stop telling Jesus’ stories because they make you uncomfortable. I believe they offer abundant life, and I hope you find that too. If you don’t want to see my posts, feel free to unfollow.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

To suppose I’m perpetuating a narrative against all Pharisees is a mistake. I’m contextualizing a story. In fact, Jesus explicitly acknowledged the righteousness practiced by the scribes and Pharisees in Matthew 5:20. However, your posts don’t seem to want conversation.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

That’s only how you choose to see it.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

Sadly, the one that said I am the Bread of Life, has been ignored by the House of Bread.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

The Pharisees knew scripture but missed the Messiah standing right in front of them. It's a warning for us: knowing the Bible doesn't guarantee we see Jesus. We can be experts in God's ways, yet still resist the God who speaks to us. #faith #scripture

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

Jesus isn't just another figure; he's the singular path to the Father, offering ultimate meaning, purpose, and identity. His message draws a clear line. The exclusivity of his claims can't be dismissed simply because it's inconvenient. #faith #Jesus

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

This week in the Seven series, we look at John 8:12–20 and what it means to follow Jesus when the world feels dark, confusing, and uncertain. Watch the full sermon: youtu.be/SV_2wWC1FCk

youtu.be

Seven: I Am the Light of the World (John 8:12-20) | Jeff McLain

YouTube video by River Corner Church

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

Prayer is not about finding God in spectacle, performance, or formulaic ways we have been taught to pray. The posture of prayer that Jesus gives us teaches us to recognize the Father in the secret and ordinary places, confidently trusting that even there, when we feel alone, we are seen (Mt 6:6).

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 26/08/2026

The world sells a lot of success, but Jesus challenges us to look for the right prize. It’s about reorienting ourselves toward Him, not chasing worldly gains. Link to full video in bio.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

Focusing on our mission through prayer and scripture reminds us what eternal life is. Let's live out this commitment, not pursuing fleeting things.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

Two tables are set: one offers worldly success, comfort, and pleasure, promising satisfaction. The other, Jesus, offers himself – the bread of life. The choice shapes our appetites and sustains our lives. He declares, "I am that bread," where the gift and the giver are one. #faith #life

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 21/08/2026

A prayer that we are told 'Pray, then, in this way' is not a secret formula for manipulating God into giving us what we want, but I also do not believe it is optional nor just a suggestion for those of us who want to learn and stay rooted in the way of life that Jesus calls us to.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

"I am a work in prog-mess" - Ted Lasso

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 17/08/2026

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 15/08/2026

The day didn’t start great. A few issues with my diabetes and a repair that needs to be taken care of. But I’m not going to let any of that get in the way. It’s Daddy-Daughter Date Day. That’s what matters.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

A quiet life isn’t failure—it’s resistance.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 07/08/2026

I love when people say “yes” to Jesus. There is something otherworldly about sitting with someone as they confess with their mouth and believe in their heart. It is a holy moment. Today, I gratefully saw another life called by grace. I’m always here if you want to talk.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

“People first have to be made ready to do good works by being born anew. Only then, would they be capable of doing good works… doing good works doesn’t make anyone good.” - Martin Luther, (By Faith Alone)

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

There are passages of Scripture we return to again and again. Sometimes we read them. Sometimes, if we're paying attention, they begin reading us. A Lead a Quiet Life Blog on Patheos Evangelical. www.patheos.com/blogs/leadaq...

patheos.com

When Psalm 23 Began Reading Me

What if Psalm 23 isn't just meant to be read, but to read you? A reflection on discernment, surrender, and the Shepherd's gentle guidance.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

We got to pray just to make it today.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

“We are old fools. The more educated and intelligent we become, the less we know and understand. We must preach this message again and again so that all of us may be satisfied and filled with its teaching.” - Martin Luther, Faith Alone (John 8:36)

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 30/07/2026

Sometimes life starts piling up. There will always be another task waiting. But I’m learning that rediscovering a sense of play is just as important. After work we stopped for dinner, grabbed a coffee, and wandered through the park while the kids laughed and played. Take the scenic route.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 28/07/2026

The kingdom of this world is built on returns and roles. The Kingdom of God is built on giving as freely as we have received. (Matthew 10:8)

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 28/07/2026

The kingdom of this world is built on returns and roles. The Kingdom of God is built on giving as freely as we have received. (Matthew 10:8)

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 27/07/2026

The Lord’s Prayer is an ancient practice that is confessional, reorders our priorities, provides a theological trellis, roots us in the way of Jesus, and connects us to the global and historic Church. I write about the Lord’s Prayer and recovering a rooted Christian way of life at JeffMcLain.com.

jeffmclain.com

Jeff McLain

Exploring the Lord’s Prayer for Spiritual Formation and Simple Faith

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 18/07/2026

“Our sins are forgiven at the cross, yet we sometimes do not deal adequately with sin’s effects in our lives. We need to allow the reality of the cross and the truth of the scripture to expose the lies we believe.” - John Wimber (1993)

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 16/07/2026

God's invitation to Sabbath is more than a command—it's a harbor for weary souls. Sometimes we need longer seasons of stillness to be restored. A blog post on @patheos.com www.patheos.com/blogs/leadaq...

patheos.com

Port Of Call: Sometimes We Need More Than A Weekly Sabbath

God's invitation to Sabbath is more than a command—it's a harbor for souls. Sometimes we need longer seasons of stillness to be restored.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

“I’m all for the pulpit, but the real power of the gospel is released as ordinary, Spirit-filled people multiply the gospel wherever they go, into every part of their communities.” - J.D. Greear

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 03/07/2026

Psalm 23 is more than a funeral psalm. It is a poem for pilgrims, a portable theology meant to be carried in the heart. www.patheos.com/blogs/leadaq... A Blog Post on @patheos.com.

patheos.com

Psalm 23: A Poem For The Pilgrimage

Psalm 23 is more than a funeral psalm. Discover how this familiar passage becomes a poem for pilgrims and a reminder of God's faithful care.

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Jeff McLain @jeffmclain.bsky.social · 03/07/2026

“...the one whom you need to shepherd you neither needs you nor needs to be shepherded himself as he gives himself to shepherd you. He shepherds you from his eternally undiminishing fullness, and he is never the poorer for it.” The Lord is my shepherd. David Gibson, The Lord of Psalm 23

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