In keeping with our efforts to reach the unchurched and not other Christians from other churches, we are throwing a "Halloween" Party on Sunday October 31st. We are actually moving our whole church service across the street and renting out Hayes Elementary gym for the morning.
Many Christians would bristle at the use of "Halloween" and not the more church-friendly "Harvest" word. Outside of the church arena, a "Harvest Party" sounds much more weird and spooky than a "Halloween Party." Often we expect the people we are inviting to "get it" before actually giving it to them. Mature Christians understand the need to be cognizant of deeper spiritual truths and respect the fact that most people are messing around with things much more powerful and dangerous than they know. (i.e. demons, death symbols, witches and magic, etc.) However, we must understand that this is knowledge that gets assimilated after a person's spirit is reborn in Christ.
Here's what I mean. This Sunday in our bulletin there was coupled with the announcement about our upcoming party a statement that read "No monster costumes." I stood up and told our people to ignore this. I explained that we are not invited our community to come only if they come on our terms or what we consider spiritually acceptable terms. Imagine a mom or dad who know nothing of Christ and they bought the spookiest costume they could find for their child. They receive our invitation, but feel they cannot come because they would either have to buy another costume or if they showed up with the one they have they would be afraid of being labeled "less than ok" in some way for doing so.
It would certainly be my hope that down the road after their spiritual eyes have been opened to the unseen realities of the spiritual world that they would choose a costume that was not demonic in nature.
As a parent, my wife and I had the discussion years ago about what we would do for Halloween when our kids came of age to either participate or not. We decided that it would be nonsense for us to refuse to allow our kids to participate at all. But we have set parameters. We do the pumpkin carving, and we let the kids pick out or create a costume to go "trick or treating" in. But the costumes are not to be demonic, not to be associated with magic, nor will they have anything to do with death or spirits. We know and respect the spiritual realities that exist and do not want to open any door or create any foothold for the enemy in their lives. However, we will not be governed by fear and create some sort of barricaded approach to life. Our approach allows the kids to fully participate and have fun, but in a way that does not dishonor the Lord.
Soooo.... we are throwing a Halloween party! People are free to dress up however they want. We are going to love them, love the kids and show every one of them that Jesus loves them to the fullest amount possible right now as they are.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Saturday, October 2, 2010
New Focus: "Why?"
I am going to start blogging more about the "why" of how I am doing things as I continue to lead a church through a turnaround effort. No need to reinvent the wheel if someone is going through a similar effort. Since there are so many churches that need to turn things around, this will either serve as a help for how to do things or else a "Manual of Things to Avoid!" :) So far, so good though. If in reality this serves more as a journaling tool for me to help organize my thoughts, that's good too.
So...
As I finish year three and look back, I see a difference in my preaching. The first two years I was preaching wonderful, rich theological sermons. (in my humble opinion) However, I realized that I was preaching more for the approval of my peers in ministry (who were not present and I'm pretty sure were not listening online either). This was not done intentionally. I only became aware of it through some prayer and introspection. The same things that speak to me, will not speak to the unchurched and those who are young in their faith. I have found that I am putting things more on the "bottom shelf" as one of my mentor's put it. For all my talk about relevance, it needs to be relevant to the real audience more than a perceived audience. Is it not the role of a pastor to meet people where they are at and draw them higher? Kind of sounds like what Jesus does too...
It is still my goal to have something relevant for people at every level of their spiritual journey with Christ. I know that I am constitutionally unable to stand up front and deliver weak moralisms and empty spiritual platitudes. I just can't do it. What I can do is be more intentional about delivering the uncompromising truth of God's Word in a means more easy to digest. We're called to be "fishers of men." I suck at actual fishing and have no interest in getting better...but even I know that fishermen use different lures and bait in different waters based on what the conditions are and what kind of fish they are trying to catch. The objective for every 'fisher of men' is to find the right bait for the right condition they find themselves in.
So...
As I finish year three and look back, I see a difference in my preaching. The first two years I was preaching wonderful, rich theological sermons. (in my humble opinion) However, I realized that I was preaching more for the approval of my peers in ministry (who were not present and I'm pretty sure were not listening online either). This was not done intentionally. I only became aware of it through some prayer and introspection. The same things that speak to me, will not speak to the unchurched and those who are young in their faith. I have found that I am putting things more on the "bottom shelf" as one of my mentor's put it. For all my talk about relevance, it needs to be relevant to the real audience more than a perceived audience. Is it not the role of a pastor to meet people where they are at and draw them higher? Kind of sounds like what Jesus does too...
It is still my goal to have something relevant for people at every level of their spiritual journey with Christ. I know that I am constitutionally unable to stand up front and deliver weak moralisms and empty spiritual platitudes. I just can't do it. What I can do is be more intentional about delivering the uncompromising truth of God's Word in a means more easy to digest. We're called to be "fishers of men." I suck at actual fishing and have no interest in getting better...but even I know that fishermen use different lures and bait in different waters based on what the conditions are and what kind of fish they are trying to catch. The objective for every 'fisher of men' is to find the right bait for the right condition they find themselves in.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
George Barna's Revolution
So I've been going over a book that came out a few years ago from George Barna (www.barna.org) who is the unofficial king of statisticians regarding things in the Christian world. His company and the research they do is an absolutely wonderful asset to doing relevant ministry in our time.
He put out a book a few years back (2005) offering his insights and interpretations of the data they had been collecting. Much of what was predicting is coming true. The basic thrust of the book is (SPOILER ALERT) that there is a revolution of people looking for living a Christian life apart from what is referred to as the "traditional congregational model." He is not referring to their worship style in saying "traditional," but rather what is commonly pictured when you say the word "church" whether it be a dated approach or a more contemporary approach. There is a definite excitement that comes from the pages as he is telling about people leaving the notion of "church" behind and pursuing their dreams for serving God in a unique way. You almost get the sense that Barna is like some nerdy kid with taped glasses looking out of the window at the cool kids who get to go out and play.
I have a couple of thoughts that I wanted to share (briefly!):
1. It is sad that people that are dreamers for God find it hard and sometimes impossible to find a welcoming church to see their God-given dreams realized. Sometimes churches become all about "what has been done before."
2. I definitely see a place and a role for ministries that exist outside of a direct tie to churches. Ministries like IHOP, Teen Challenge and others help to narrow the focus on a particular area to great effectiveness.
3. I find it a bit disconcerting that Barna is for the most part seeming to applaud these things as replacements of the church. (see below)
Even when the Church (not talking historical Catholic or even the later Protestant, but rather the general sense of the Body of Christ as it is organized into local bodies of believers) has screwed up in major ways, the Church is the chosen vehicle that God uses consistently. The subtext of Barna that I agree with is don't be LIMITED by the church. However, the message conveyed seems to be to do things in SPITE of the church, which causes me some issues. Whatever ministry endeavors a person sets themselves to needs to connect whoever they are reaching to a local body for the sake of health and longevity.
Perhaps it is semantics. But what I see happening today is the multitudes saying "I don't need a church to be a Christian." It is both wrong and unbiblical. It is true that a person doesn't need a church to be saved. But if you are a Christ-follower He will lead you into connection with other believers. Barna's book kind of feeds the people that say this and they wind up (not because of him) leaving their church and ultimately living weak and ineffective lives. AND the church is the lesser because they are not serving people with their God given gifts and calling. It is the extremely rare individual that Barna keeps highlighting that gather a group of like-minded people to accomplish something of worth for the Kingdom.
For more on the state of the Church in the West and what God is calling the Church to do about it, listen to this: "Why we need a 'Revolution'"
He put out a book a few years back (2005) offering his insights and interpretations of the data they had been collecting. Much of what was predicting is coming true. The basic thrust of the book is (SPOILER ALERT) that there is a revolution of people looking for living a Christian life apart from what is referred to as the "traditional congregational model." He is not referring to their worship style in saying "traditional," but rather what is commonly pictured when you say the word "church" whether it be a dated approach or a more contemporary approach. There is a definite excitement that comes from the pages as he is telling about people leaving the notion of "church" behind and pursuing their dreams for serving God in a unique way. You almost get the sense that Barna is like some nerdy kid with taped glasses looking out of the window at the cool kids who get to go out and play.
I have a couple of thoughts that I wanted to share (briefly!):
1. It is sad that people that are dreamers for God find it hard and sometimes impossible to find a welcoming church to see their God-given dreams realized. Sometimes churches become all about "what has been done before."
2. I definitely see a place and a role for ministries that exist outside of a direct tie to churches. Ministries like IHOP, Teen Challenge and others help to narrow the focus on a particular area to great effectiveness.
3. I find it a bit disconcerting that Barna is for the most part seeming to applaud these things as replacements of the church. (see below)
Even when the Church (not talking historical Catholic or even the later Protestant, but rather the general sense of the Body of Christ as it is organized into local bodies of believers) has screwed up in major ways, the Church is the chosen vehicle that God uses consistently. The subtext of Barna that I agree with is don't be LIMITED by the church. However, the message conveyed seems to be to do things in SPITE of the church, which causes me some issues. Whatever ministry endeavors a person sets themselves to needs to connect whoever they are reaching to a local body for the sake of health and longevity.
Perhaps it is semantics. But what I see happening today is the multitudes saying "I don't need a church to be a Christian." It is both wrong and unbiblical. It is true that a person doesn't need a church to be saved. But if you are a Christ-follower He will lead you into connection with other believers. Barna's book kind of feeds the people that say this and they wind up (not because of him) leaving their church and ultimately living weak and ineffective lives. AND the church is the lesser because they are not serving people with their God given gifts and calling. It is the extremely rare individual that Barna keeps highlighting that gather a group of like-minded people to accomplish something of worth for the Kingdom.
For more on the state of the Church in the West and what God is calling the Church to do about it, listen to this: "Why we need a 'Revolution'"
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Are you an "Almost Christian?"
Are you an "Almost Christian?" What's that you say? Glad you asked. You see I think there are many many people who are living deceived. Some perhaps are self-deceived but I think the majority are living under the new norm in our culture.
So what's an "Almost Christian?" Perhaps you can identify...err I mean, perhaps you know someone who this may apply to.
You may have had numerous church moments in life.
You may have even had some genuine encounters with God at some point in the past. Perhaps in a Christian camp setting?
You may know Christians
You may be a current church attender.
You may have an uncle on your mother's side who is a pastor.
You may believe in God.
You may believe that Jesus died for the world and was raised from the dead. (Satan knows and believes this)
You may be a "good person" and have "never killed anyone."
You may know what "WWJD" stands for.
You may have a fish (Ictus)on the back of your car.
You may throw some money in the bag during offering time at church
When people ask "what religion are you?" You may readily identify yourself as a "Christian."
You may say "my family and I are Catholic."
You may throw some prayers up for help in this area or that area.
But no where in that short list of possibilities is located the things that Jesus say matter. What makes a Christian a Christian and not just some 'one [particular brand of a religious person among many choices?
It's actually pretty simple. A Christian means "follower of Christ" or more biblically correct an "emulator of Christ."
It is someone who has had a genuine life altering encounter with the Living Christ. (Jn 3:3)
It is someone who is actively and continually choosing to trust Christ with their lives via their personal relationship with Him.
It is someone who, yes, believes that Christ died for the world including them, but also confesses the Lordship and Divinity of Jesus. (Ro 10:9-10).
Let me break it down. Basically there are a whole lot of 'Almost Christians' who hang around the cross rather than getting on the cross. (Gal 2:20)
God has no grandchildren, only children.
God does not recognize 'almost children', only his kids whom He adores.
God does not have acquaintances, only those who stand as enemies against Him and those who stand as loving recipients of the terrible but willingly paid purchase price of our salvation...the cross of Jesus.
By way of balance let me mention this, being a Christian does not mean:
You are perfect.
You never sin.
You are not continually in need of the grace of Jesus until we meet Him and become like Him.
Being Christian is a journey of becoming more like Jesus as you discover who you were created to truly be and what you were created to do. It is a journey filled with error and failures and struggle with sin all along the way. But all the while there is a reality of a surrendered life and a longing to know Jesus more. Sure, you do the stuff Christians do and can check off the right set of beliefs, but that alone doesn't make you a Christian. It's what's in your heart that truly makes you a follower of Jesus.
Don't be an "Almost Christian." It sucks. There's no joy there; no life. Nothing done half way is ever worth anything. Dive in and join the adventure of being Christian! the cross rather than climbing up and hanging
So what's an "Almost Christian?" Perhaps you can identify...err I mean, perhaps you know someone who this may apply to.
You may have had numerous church moments in life.
You may have even had some genuine encounters with God at some point in the past. Perhaps in a Christian camp setting?
You may know Christians
You may be a current church attender.
You may have an uncle on your mother's side who is a pastor.
You may believe in God.
You may believe that Jesus died for the world and was raised from the dead. (Satan knows and believes this)
You may be a "good person" and have "never killed anyone."
You may know what "WWJD" stands for.
You may have a fish (Ictus)on the back of your car.
You may throw some money in the bag during offering time at church
When people ask "what religion are you?" You may readily identify yourself as a "Christian."
You may say "my family and I are Catholic."
You may throw some prayers up for help in this area or that area.
But no where in that short list of possibilities is located the things that Jesus say matter. What makes a Christian a Christian and not just some 'one [particular brand of a religious person among many choices?
It's actually pretty simple. A Christian means "follower of Christ" or more biblically correct an "emulator of Christ."
It is someone who has had a genuine life altering encounter with the Living Christ. (Jn 3:3)
It is someone who is actively and continually choosing to trust Christ with their lives via their personal relationship with Him.
It is someone who, yes, believes that Christ died for the world including them, but also confesses the Lordship and Divinity of Jesus. (Ro 10:9-10).
Let me break it down. Basically there are a whole lot of 'Almost Christians' who hang around the cross rather than getting on the cross. (Gal 2:20)
God has no grandchildren, only children.
God does not recognize 'almost children', only his kids whom He adores.
God does not have acquaintances, only those who stand as enemies against Him and those who stand as loving recipients of the terrible but willingly paid purchase price of our salvation...the cross of Jesus.
By way of balance let me mention this, being a Christian does not mean:
You are perfect.
You never sin.
You are not continually in need of the grace of Jesus until we meet Him and become like Him.
Being Christian is a journey of becoming more like Jesus as you discover who you were created to truly be and what you were created to do. It is a journey filled with error and failures and struggle with sin all along the way. But all the while there is a reality of a surrendered life and a longing to know Jesus more. Sure, you do the stuff Christians do and can check off the right set of beliefs, but that alone doesn't make you a Christian. It's what's in your heart that truly makes you a follower of Jesus.
Don't be an "Almost Christian." It sucks. There's no joy there; no life. Nothing done half way is ever worth anything. Dive in and join the adventure of being Christian! the cross rather than climbing up and hanging
Monday, June 14, 2010
Theory on Perversion of Social Justice
I have been thinking a lot about the Social Justice movement going on in our culture. First, I must say that I LOVE it when Christians get their eyes off of themselves and onto serving others. It is not only healthy for them, but it is a matter of obedience and service to the Lord. (Matthew 25:31-46).
Over the past several years there has been a growing trend in the area of social justice in our culture. The up and coming generation is devoted and excited about the idea of impacting this world for good. Not since the wave of social consciousness of the 60's has there been this type of excitement and involvement. I think our young people are not only more aware of the needs in the world, but also see that there is a lack of fulfillment and a general frustration with living a life only for one's self. All of that is great, truly. However, the idea of justice itself is rooted in a Holy God and Creator of all things. The very notion of Justice flows from the idea of righteousness and judgment. The expression of that idea must therefore be rooted in God's definition and vision for its implementation. In other words, 'what does God say is right or wrong?'
You don't venture too far in this area before you start tripping over post-modernist relativity. the stuff of "your truth is fine for you," etc. ad nauseam. But there is some merit there. Those who just want to "help someone" might wind up hurting them. For example, in the West we tend to look at the problems in developing countries as a "lack of stuff" problem. Certainly that is part of the equation, but not even close to the real answer.
The diversion (and perversion) that I am concerned about is the idea of Justice apart from the Just One's direction. I often use the Cross as an example of a correct emphasis from the believer outward from themselves. The majority of the focus in a Believer's life should be vertical toward God in worship, prayer, adoration, study, fellowship, etc. As a result (not an addition to) there is an overflowing outward in service to the people, community and culture around you. Without the filling and refreshing that comes from "abiding in the Vine," the fruit and effectiveness that one desires from their acts of service soon dry up or become distorted. Perhaps part of the issue is that people feel so disconnected from God and are trying to prove that they are "good" and don't need God for that as the current atheist agenda is asserting. Jesus said that apart from Him we can do nothing.
Recently in our area there is a local center that has been helping people for decades with food, shelter, job counseling and other services. It was started by a group of local churches to pool their resources and be more effective together. It is called the Lakewood Christian Service Center. We have supported it faithfully since I arrived as pastor at West Shore Church. Now because of funding issues with the government they are renaming themselves and taking the word "Christian" out of it. No doubt from some misguided and perverted cultural sense of not wanting to offend anyone.
On the surface it sounds noble and sympathetic. It is in fact a travesty. To neglect (and even cut off!) the greatest need of humanity, namely salvation through the redeeming death of Jesus Christ for the whole world, is incredibly short-sighted and a betrayal of the One who formed the idea of Justice for all.
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:1–5, TNIV)
(http://www.youversion.com/bible/tniv/john/15/1-5)
Over the past several years there has been a growing trend in the area of social justice in our culture. The up and coming generation is devoted and excited about the idea of impacting this world for good. Not since the wave of social consciousness of the 60's has there been this type of excitement and involvement. I think our young people are not only more aware of the needs in the world, but also see that there is a lack of fulfillment and a general frustration with living a life only for one's self. All of that is great, truly. However, the idea of justice itself is rooted in a Holy God and Creator of all things. The very notion of Justice flows from the idea of righteousness and judgment. The expression of that idea must therefore be rooted in God's definition and vision for its implementation. In other words, 'what does God say is right or wrong?'
You don't venture too far in this area before you start tripping over post-modernist relativity. the stuff of "your truth is fine for you," etc. ad nauseam. But there is some merit there. Those who just want to "help someone" might wind up hurting them. For example, in the West we tend to look at the problems in developing countries as a "lack of stuff" problem. Certainly that is part of the equation, but not even close to the real answer.
The diversion (and perversion) that I am concerned about is the idea of Justice apart from the Just One's direction. I often use the Cross as an example of a correct emphasis from the believer outward from themselves. The majority of the focus in a Believer's life should be vertical toward God in worship, prayer, adoration, study, fellowship, etc. As a result (not an addition to) there is an overflowing outward in service to the people, community and culture around you. Without the filling and refreshing that comes from "abiding in the Vine," the fruit and effectiveness that one desires from their acts of service soon dry up or become distorted. Perhaps part of the issue is that people feel so disconnected from God and are trying to prove that they are "good" and don't need God for that as the current atheist agenda is asserting. Jesus said that apart from Him we can do nothing.
Recently in our area there is a local center that has been helping people for decades with food, shelter, job counseling and other services. It was started by a group of local churches to pool their resources and be more effective together. It is called the Lakewood Christian Service Center. We have supported it faithfully since I arrived as pastor at West Shore Church. Now because of funding issues with the government they are renaming themselves and taking the word "Christian" out of it. No doubt from some misguided and perverted cultural sense of not wanting to offend anyone.
On the surface it sounds noble and sympathetic. It is in fact a travesty. To neglect (and even cut off!) the greatest need of humanity, namely salvation through the redeeming death of Jesus Christ for the whole world, is incredibly short-sighted and a betrayal of the One who formed the idea of Justice for all.
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:1–5, TNIV)
(http://www.youversion.com/bible/tniv/john/15/1-5)
Thursday, June 10, 2010
In the Words of My Great Grandpa
In the Words of My Great Grandpa, Everett (Pa) Hunley. While organizing I ran across some papers that my great-grandpa had written. It was him recording the story of his life. He lived in the hills of Kentucky. He was born in 1902 and went to be with the Lord in 1998. He was married for over 75 years to the love of his life my Great-Grandma, Martha (Ma) Hunley.
In this story he goes on to tell about how there were no modern conveniences; water was retrieved from a spring; he awoke each morning to go chop wood for the day. "People did not look ahead like they do now."
Some tidbits: (retained some of the spelling and grammar errors to preserve effect)
Marriage and finances:
"Half the marriages today ends up in divorce. When I was young they married for love. They didn't marry for sex or money. You never heard of divorce. No body in debt ever body enjoyed their selves. I don't own any body anything and have got my home, but I worry about grand-kids and great grand-kids. It hurts me to see them worry. I had to work hard all my life, now I don't haft to work, but I have pains and troubles, but I still enjoy life."
Religion:
"I like the old fashion preacher better. They preached by the spirit. When they had a revival, then it would go on for two or three weeks when the Spirit got in two it. You would hear shouting and crying all over the church house. Now you go to church it is more like some kind of a play. Your kids wont agree with me but I like the old time religion that the Power above gets involved in. Homemade religion don't work. Going to church don't work. Paying the preacher don't work. All that works is the spirit of Jesus Christ and if the Spirit don't lead you, it is all fake. It tells you in the Bible if the Spirit quits dealing with you, you are doomed to Hell. When they prayed, ever body would get on there knees. Now they stand up, fraid they will get dirt on their knees. The Bible says ever knee shall bow so that is enough about religion."
Good stuff.
In this story he goes on to tell about how there were no modern conveniences; water was retrieved from a spring; he awoke each morning to go chop wood for the day. "People did not look ahead like they do now."
Some tidbits: (retained some of the spelling and grammar errors to preserve effect)
Marriage and finances:
"Half the marriages today ends up in divorce. When I was young they married for love. They didn't marry for sex or money. You never heard of divorce. No body in debt ever body enjoyed their selves. I don't own any body anything and have got my home, but I worry about grand-kids and great grand-kids. It hurts me to see them worry. I had to work hard all my life, now I don't haft to work, but I have pains and troubles, but I still enjoy life."
Religion:
"I like the old fashion preacher better. They preached by the spirit. When they had a revival, then it would go on for two or three weeks when the Spirit got in two it. You would hear shouting and crying all over the church house. Now you go to church it is more like some kind of a play. Your kids wont agree with me but I like the old time religion that the Power above gets involved in. Homemade religion don't work. Going to church don't work. Paying the preacher don't work. All that works is the spirit of Jesus Christ and if the Spirit don't lead you, it is all fake. It tells you in the Bible if the Spirit quits dealing with you, you are doomed to Hell. When they prayed, ever body would get on there knees. Now they stand up, fraid they will get dirt on their knees. The Bible says ever knee shall bow so that is enough about religion."
Good stuff.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
The Master of Everything
My son wrote a worship song this morning. As I was getting ready to take my son, Josiah, to school this morning, he was playing with his army guys. However, after being quiet for a few minutes he walked up to me with a paper in his hands and said, "I wrote a song, Dad." My son just turned 8 years old last weekend. Here's what was on the paper:
"The Master of Everything
Jesus, You're the master of everything
the master of everything
You are the only God
Oh, yeah! Oh, yes You are!
Ah ha! Oh, Yeah!
You are the master of everything, yeah!
Ohhhh, yeah!
Ohhhh, yeah!
You're the master of everything
Master of everything
written by: Josiah Hans Schall"
Love it! :)
"The Master of Everything
Jesus, You're the master of everything
the master of everything
You are the only God
Oh, yeah! Oh, yes You are!
Ah ha! Oh, Yeah!
You are the master of everything, yeah!
Ohhhh, yeah!
Ohhhh, yeah!
You're the master of everything
Master of everything
written by: Josiah Hans Schall"
Love it! :)
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Attack on the Personhood of God
There's a conspiracy afoot! :-) (always wanted to say that) However, it is true. One of the basic spiritual realities is that there is an Enemy working to destroy God's Kingdom and His people here on earth. That's just basic Christianity, yo. One of the latest things I have been noticing (maybe I'm slow at the pick up here) is that there is an all-out conspiracy to get people to treat God as if He is a 'thing' or an 'idea.' Why is that? Well let me offer a few reasons:
1. If God is not a person then we can recreate Him however we wish according to personal preferences or cultural trends.
2. If God is not a person then there is no accountability for our actions.
3. If God is not a person then the Ten Commandments and the Bible as a whole are merely suggestions.
4. If God is not a person then He never gets angry at injustice, He never experiences joy when we worship Him, He never grieves when we are hurt.
5. If God is not a person then ultimately He is unknowable and we are just on our own.
6. If God is not a person, but merely some amorphous blob, then Jesus was a fraud.
7. If God is not a person and Jesus a fraud, then we unable to be free from sin or experience true life change
However, if God is a Person:
1. He desires relationship
2. He wants to be known and loved
3. He has a specific Name that He has revealed and would expect to be addressed by that Name. (Imagine if someone completely disregarded your name after you have repeatedly told them your name)
4. He enjoys being in community
5. He is emotionally moved by interactions and experiences and therefore voluntarily vulnerable.
6. He communicates all the time.
7. He loves.
If the enemy can get us to deny the Personhood of God then God becomes "god" and just one of many abstract ideas about faith and spirituality. When you know a person you get a feel for who they are, how to interact with them, and what their expectations of relationship are. The deeper the relationship the more intimate it becomes. The biblical language (God revealing Himself to mankind through His Word) uses imagery to help give context to that relationship.
First, we are creations of the Creator. (Gen 1-3)
Second, we are invited into fellowship. (Gen 3)
Third, we become children of God through accepting and trusting in the atoning work of Jesus Christ. (Ro. 8:15)
Fourth, we are invited into friendship (John 15:14-15)
Fifth and finally, we are invited into the kind of oneness and intimacy that only the analogy of marriage can describe. (2 Cor. 11:2, Eph 5:27, Matt 25:1-12, Rev. 22:17)
Soooo. Do you live your life and faith as if God is both real AND a person? Much of modern biblical scholarship tries to take away the Personhood of God making Christianity about how much you know or how many works you do.
No relationship can survive a breakdown of communication and intimacy. How you doing with that? Are you speaking? Are you listening? Are you taking time for intimacy?
Are you approaching God according to how He has revealed Himself to us? Do you form your image of Who God is by informing yourself as to His character, His will and His love for you?
1. If God is not a person then we can recreate Him however we wish according to personal preferences or cultural trends.
2. If God is not a person then there is no accountability for our actions.
3. If God is not a person then the Ten Commandments and the Bible as a whole are merely suggestions.
4. If God is not a person then He never gets angry at injustice, He never experiences joy when we worship Him, He never grieves when we are hurt.
5. If God is not a person then ultimately He is unknowable and we are just on our own.
6. If God is not a person, but merely some amorphous blob, then Jesus was a fraud.
7. If God is not a person and Jesus a fraud, then we unable to be free from sin or experience true life change
However, if God is a Person:
1. He desires relationship
2. He wants to be known and loved
3. He has a specific Name that He has revealed and would expect to be addressed by that Name. (Imagine if someone completely disregarded your name after you have repeatedly told them your name)
4. He enjoys being in community
5. He is emotionally moved by interactions and experiences and therefore voluntarily vulnerable.
6. He communicates all the time.
7. He loves.
If the enemy can get us to deny the Personhood of God then God becomes "god" and just one of many abstract ideas about faith and spirituality. When you know a person you get a feel for who they are, how to interact with them, and what their expectations of relationship are. The deeper the relationship the more intimate it becomes. The biblical language (God revealing Himself to mankind through His Word) uses imagery to help give context to that relationship.
First, we are creations of the Creator. (Gen 1-3)
Second, we are invited into fellowship. (Gen 3)
Third, we become children of God through accepting and trusting in the atoning work of Jesus Christ. (Ro. 8:15)
Fourth, we are invited into friendship (John 15:14-15)
Fifth and finally, we are invited into the kind of oneness and intimacy that only the analogy of marriage can describe. (2 Cor. 11:2, Eph 5:27, Matt 25:1-12, Rev. 22:17)
Soooo. Do you live your life and faith as if God is both real AND a person? Much of modern biblical scholarship tries to take away the Personhood of God making Christianity about how much you know or how many works you do.
No relationship can survive a breakdown of communication and intimacy. How you doing with that? Are you speaking? Are you listening? Are you taking time for intimacy?
Are you approaching God according to how He has revealed Himself to us? Do you form your image of Who God is by informing yourself as to His character, His will and His love for you?
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Delivered vs. Overcoming
thinking about how the Lord delivered the people of Egypt with great evidence of his power and yet in Exodus 13:17 “When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, “If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” They weren't ready for battle. God had 'delivered' them, but they were not ready to be 'overcomers' which is always His goal for our lives. Thank God for His deliverance when needed, but are you moving towards living as an overcomer?
"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37, TNIV)
"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37, TNIV)
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Poll Question re: Fasting
Poll question: Christian, have you ever fasted? Why? What type of fast was it? What were the results?
Friday, April 23, 2010
Did We Just Lose the War on Terror?
So much fodder for ranting this morning! :)
From my twitter feed: RT @cnnbrk: Army pulls Graham invite for prayer event due to "The Army..feared... Islamic militants would.." http://is.gd/bEQJQ
I thought the whole point of the war was so that we would could have the freedom to make choices in our lives and our nation not out of fear but out of our liberties. And now here we have the leaders of our brave men and women of the armed forces making a choice regarding the National Day of Prayer out of fear that the bad guys might get offended?? This is not "military strategy" this is the effects of a culture that has lost sight of it's Christian heritage and roots, the very thing that made us great. This is a decision made from the quagmire of the modern concept of tolerance.
Franklin Graham is not some wild-eyed bigot from the fringes of culture. He is the respected son of Billy Graham and has taken up his father's evangelistic mantle after a long and difficult time of prodigal living.
Join me and many others, including Church leaders, community officials, and a ton of great people at the Cleveland celebration of the ("unconstitutional") 2010 National Day of Prayer on Thursday May 6th in Public Square in downtown CLE with events going on from 10am-1pm, with the central prayer for the nation happening at noon.
From my twitter feed: RT @cnnbrk: Army pulls Graham invite for prayer event due to "The Army..feared... Islamic militants would.." http://is.gd/bEQJQ
I thought the whole point of the war was so that we would could have the freedom to make choices in our lives and our nation not out of fear but out of our liberties. And now here we have the leaders of our brave men and women of the armed forces making a choice regarding the National Day of Prayer out of fear that the bad guys might get offended?? This is not "military strategy" this is the effects of a culture that has lost sight of it's Christian heritage and roots, the very thing that made us great. This is a decision made from the quagmire of the modern concept of tolerance.
Franklin Graham is not some wild-eyed bigot from the fringes of culture. He is the respected son of Billy Graham and has taken up his father's evangelistic mantle after a long and difficult time of prodigal living.
Join me and many others, including Church leaders, community officials, and a ton of great people at the Cleveland celebration of the ("unconstitutional") 2010 National Day of Prayer on Thursday May 6th in Public Square in downtown CLE with events going on from 10am-1pm, with the central prayer for the nation happening at noon.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Earth Day..
Today is Earth Day. (Actually I thought it was yesterday...oops! Will hug an extra tree for penance) I love the extra focus upon being "green" the last few years. I think it is fantastic that people are being mindful of conservation, recycling. I love that people who litter get nasty looks. :)
However, yesterday (again because I thought Earth Day was yesterday) I posted a snarky little comment that said "Forgive me in advance, but if someone comes up to me and mentions "Mother Earth" to me, I will flick them in the nose" Why so seemingly uncelebrative of this day? Well as I said, I love the new found emphasis on being green. The reason is that we are called to be good stewards of the earth that God created and gave to us to care for. Even as we rule over it, we are to be good stewards of His creation. Where I get snarky is this tendency to ascribe sentience or even deity to this world that we inhabit. This thing just won't go away. It even found a new thrust of emphasis in James Cameron's new blockbuster "Avatar."
Having said that, I do realize my growing trend towards ranting and I am trying to rein it in. It's just that I see God's truth continually being eroded in our culture to be replaced by things that have their basis either in paganism or atheism. I just have to say something. (wonder if anyone actually reads...or cares)
Blessings!
However, yesterday (again because I thought Earth Day was yesterday) I posted a snarky little comment that said "Forgive me in advance, but if someone comes up to me and mentions "Mother Earth" to me, I will flick them in the nose" Why so seemingly uncelebrative of this day? Well as I said, I love the new found emphasis on being green. The reason is that we are called to be good stewards of the earth that God created and gave to us to care for. Even as we rule over it, we are to be good stewards of His creation. Where I get snarky is this tendency to ascribe sentience or even deity to this world that we inhabit. This thing just won't go away. It even found a new thrust of emphasis in James Cameron's new blockbuster "Avatar."
Having said that, I do realize my growing trend towards ranting and I am trying to rein it in. It's just that I see God's truth continually being eroded in our culture to be replaced by things that have their basis either in paganism or atheism. I just have to say something. (wonder if anyone actually reads...or cares)
Blessings!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Building a Church That Doesn't Suck (update)
Building a Church That Doesn't Suck...the life out of you. About two years ago I posted a blog with that title and shared what was in my heart at the start of this Turnaround Church effort at West Shore. That blog title and entry has brought the more traffic to my blog than any other through people googling phrases such as "church doesn't suck" and "church sucks" etc. I wanted to briefly give an update to that post...
I have now been blessed to be at West Shore Church (A/G) for 2 1/2 years. As we enter this third year of ministry together, I look around and I am blessed. The Lord has been speaking to me from Hosea 6:1-3 regarding year one, year two and now as we enter year three. I don't want this to sound like a commercial, but rather a praise report.
Year one was extremely difficult as much change was needed to turn the ship around. Year two we laid down biblical foundations as we met and loved on new people that came. As we enter year three, I look around and see a diverse church. People from all types of backgrounds and ethnicity. We have placed the focus upon the person of Jesus and His ministry. We have thrown our focus outward by starting ministries like Angelfood Ministries through which we are feeding people all over the region. Missions giving is up. And there is a wonderful lack of politics and all the nastiness that can sometimes creep into church life. As momentum picks up we are looking to sell our building and move somewhere we can flourish and continue with what Jesus is doing. We are still at the front end of this thing that God is doing and there is a lot more that must happen, but...
Can a church that has had a steady 10 year pattern of decline, embrace change and turn around? Yes it can.
Can Jesus heal a church from deep wounds and also empower them to reach out and minister?
Oh yes He can!
Are people still turning to Christ for healing and salvation as the nation's culture grows increasingly hostile toward the things of God?
Yup!
Is the divide between the Church and the world too wide for the unchurched to cross?
Nope!
When the stuff of "religion" is kicked to the curb and people in the church embrace Jesus, then He is lifted up and draws all men to Himself.
Pray for us as we continue this journey. We are by no means in a place where we can afford to be comfortable (and God forbid we should ever be!), there is a fragility when things are new. But we are confident! (Phil. 1:6)
This is the Church...the Body of Christ...the Bride, meant to be clothed with the glory of His Presence! Turn Around Church...He is faithful!!
I have now been blessed to be at West Shore Church (A/G) for 2 1/2 years. As we enter this third year of ministry together, I look around and I am blessed. The Lord has been speaking to me from Hosea 6:1-3 regarding year one, year two and now as we enter year three. I don't want this to sound like a commercial, but rather a praise report.
Year one was extremely difficult as much change was needed to turn the ship around. Year two we laid down biblical foundations as we met and loved on new people that came. As we enter year three, I look around and see a diverse church. People from all types of backgrounds and ethnicity. We have placed the focus upon the person of Jesus and His ministry. We have thrown our focus outward by starting ministries like Angelfood Ministries through which we are feeding people all over the region. Missions giving is up. And there is a wonderful lack of politics and all the nastiness that can sometimes creep into church life. As momentum picks up we are looking to sell our building and move somewhere we can flourish and continue with what Jesus is doing. We are still at the front end of this thing that God is doing and there is a lot more that must happen, but...
Can a church that has had a steady 10 year pattern of decline, embrace change and turn around? Yes it can.
Can Jesus heal a church from deep wounds and also empower them to reach out and minister?
Oh yes He can!
Are people still turning to Christ for healing and salvation as the nation's culture grows increasingly hostile toward the things of God?
Yup!
Is the divide between the Church and the world too wide for the unchurched to cross?
Nope!
When the stuff of "religion" is kicked to the curb and people in the church embrace Jesus, then He is lifted up and draws all men to Himself.
Pray for us as we continue this journey. We are by no means in a place where we can afford to be comfortable (and God forbid we should ever be!), there is a fragility when things are new. But we are confident! (Phil. 1:6)
This is the Church...the Body of Christ...the Bride, meant to be clothed with the glory of His Presence! Turn Around Church...He is faithful!!
Friday, January 15, 2010
I love our country! #Haiti
I love our country! With the recent tragedy in Haiti due to the earthquake, the people of America have once again stepped up to the plate to give, serve and sacrifice for others. Though many people are hurting from loss of employment and a very difficult year, people are still giving. America continues to lead the way in compassion and love toward the world. But why? It goes to our roots. We were founded upon Christian principles. What that means at least in part is that we have learned to give. We have learned to treat others as we would like to be treated. The mature Christian grounded in Scripture also understands that when we give to those in need, it is as if we were giving aid to Jesus Himself. (Mt. 35:37-40) Though many have forgotten these roots, they are still a part of the fabric of our culture and I am grateful that in the midst of one of the greatest trials our country has ever know, that we do not turn a blind eye to the needs of others.
If you are looking for a safe way to contribute to the needs in Haiti, you can give at the following link. A/G has people and supplies on site right now through Convoy of Hope.
If you are looking for a safe way to contribute to the needs in Haiti, you can give at the following link. A/G has people and supplies on site right now through Convoy of Hope.
http://ag.org/top/haiti.cfm
Friday, January 1, 2010
Are New Year's Resolutions a thing of the past?
Are New Year's Resolutions a thing of the past? There are so many jokes about failed resolutions that they aren't even funny anymore. But is the answer to just forget about it? The idea of setting goals is actually essential to living a full and successful life. I think the New Year presents a great opportunity to engage in goal setting. The secret is to make attainable goals that will help propel you toward a better life.
Let me give you an idea for a start. This is something that is very doable and will enrich your life in ways that if you haven't done it before you cannot imagine. It will be fuel for every other area of your life. It will impact your joy level. It will enable you to have healthier relationships. It will help you to navigate life in a way that will not only be successful, but more importantly a success that is personally keyed to your life. Ready?
Commit to a Bible reading plan for this year!
Let me give you a few tools. Here is the one that I use:
http://www.youversion.com/reading-plans/all
There are several different plans for you from just reading through the Gospels to reading the entire Bible in a year.
You can go online each day and read from many different versions (I prefer the TNIV or NLT).
There is also a very handy iPhone app (youversion) check it out! I believe they have other options as well for phones with internet access.
Don't stop committing yourself to a better way of life just because you didn't hit the goals in the past. Reading God's Word everyday is like food for your entire being. It's like seed (Mt. 13) that bears fruit in your life over time...but without seed there can never be fruit.
Let me give you an idea for a start. This is something that is very doable and will enrich your life in ways that if you haven't done it before you cannot imagine. It will be fuel for every other area of your life. It will impact your joy level. It will enable you to have healthier relationships. It will help you to navigate life in a way that will not only be successful, but more importantly a success that is personally keyed to your life. Ready?
Commit to a Bible reading plan for this year!
Let me give you a few tools. Here is the one that I use:
http://www.youversion.com/reading-plans/all
There are several different plans for you from just reading through the Gospels to reading the entire Bible in a year.
You can go online each day and read from many different versions (I prefer the TNIV or NLT).
There is also a very handy iPhone app (youversion) check it out! I believe they have other options as well for phones with internet access.
Don't stop committing yourself to a better way of life just because you didn't hit the goals in the past. Reading God's Word everyday is like food for your entire being. It's like seed (Mt. 13) that bears fruit in your life over time...but without seed there can never be fruit.
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