David Tarkington

Is Vacation Bible School Still Effective?

Simple answer: NO - when it's just an event. YES - when it's a strategic tool for Kingdom growth.

Every year we look to the summer calendar and begin filling it with events an activities for individuals and families. As the school year grows and the "summer" shrinks, the available weeks for special activities become harder and harder to find.

As with any established church, there are expected events that hit every season of the year. Sometimes, the "prayerful" calendaring of the next year is little more than placing the expected events on the calendar once again. Yeah, I admit, sometimes it happens - we just put things on the calendar. That is why we are facing a serious and strategic moment of evaluation for all ministries and events. Is it truly the role of the church to provide events to keep church members and attenders busy? Just because "we've always done something" doesn't mean we need to continue doing it.

Now, before you open your email and begin writing me an angry message about cancelling Vacation Bible School or your other "favorite" event, read the rest of this post.

I'm NOT proposing we cancel Vacation Bible School (or VBS or Summer Jam or whatever you want to call it.)

I am just asking the question that must be asked for every calendared event, whether it be a senior adult trip to New Orleans, a youth camp, a men's retreat, a trip to the local skating rink or ball game or Disney on Ice. . .or whatever. The questions must be asked or we (the church) will be nothing more than travel agents and event planners for church attenders. It seems that at times the church actually adds to the consumerism among members while preaching against it.

Somehow, I don't think God desires that we spend time, energy, finances and resources on things that do nothing to expand the Kingdom of God.

The things listed above can all expand the Kingdom, if they are strategic and intentional. Otherwise, they become events on a calendar to help us feel good about ourselves, or at best to "keep us busy" which would be best left to the local YMCA or other clubs.

So, let's get back to the question at hand - "Is Vacation Bible School (VBS) Still Effective?"

I have been in church my entire life. I have participated in, worked in, taught in and led Vacation Bible Schools. These week-long morning "day camps" for children held at the church campus are designed to teach children the truths of the Word of God. The week includes activities, games, snacks, music, and evangelistic teaching.

We know that children attend local Vacation Bible School weeks at numerous churches throughout the summer. Some just hop from one VBS to the next. I have no problem with that, as long as when they land at ours, they receive the very best experience and a clear teaching of the message of the Gospel.

Yet, is this the most effective way to connect with children and families in our culture?

In my opinion, it is still a very effective week, especially where our church is located. However, as is often the case, we (the church) tend to shift the week of VBS into the "children's ministry" area of church and leave it to the Children's Pastor, VBS Director and volunteer leaders to "pull off" the event.

That, my friends, is when Vacation Bible School becomes uneffective.

When VBS is just another children's event, it becomes a waste of time, resources, and effort.

VBS, in our community, still has the potential of reaching numerous "unchurched" and "pre-Christian" children and families. However, just like in athletics, "potential" is useless unless met.

Each year, LifeWay tracks VBS statistics. VBS has been touted for years as the "most effective evangelism strategy in the Southern Baptist Convention." Millions are enrolled each year and tens of thousands profess Christ as Savior each year.

Each year the "ABCs" of salvation are presented to children. However, it should be noted that the ABC (Admit, Believe and Confess) is NOT the Gospel, but simply a response to the Gospel. This is vital. Otherwise, we are teaching children to "repeat after me" a prayer. Check out this post on Jared's Blog titled "The ABCs of VBS: Is It Biblical?"

Our desire is to see God work through VBS so that lives may be transformed. We will share how to know Christ. We will walk through this process with children. We will teach those who are Christ followers how to live as disciples. Yes, even as children, they can and should learn this. Follow-up is essential as well.

Our Vacation Bible School is scheduled for June 17-21. Volunteers are working to prepare for the week. The theme this year is "Colossal Coaster World" and even though the themes are always fun, we must remember that. . .God doesn't really care about the theme or the decorations. He cares about the hearts and souls of people and He has strategically placed us here with the mandate to be the light of the world.

May we recognize the value of this week as a church. May we expand the Kingdom of God through all we do as Christ-followers.

God Interrupted Our Worship Service

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It was incredible. A moment I have prayed about for years. Not a disruption, really, but an acknowledgement that when we say we are here for Him, and mean it, God moves greatly.

Yesterday's message was one of pointed realization. As Paul reminded the church in 1 Corinthians 15, so too did God remind us yesterday that as followers of Christ, we often forget that which we used to be. We have forgotten the rescue and thereby live our lives as if God's love and grace and mercy is deserved.

Paul speaks clearly here in the chapter, reminding the ancient Corinthians, as well as believers for centuries, that Christ died, was buried, rose again, appeared to many and called out the church, all in accordance with the Scriptures.

This was God's plan.

About five minutes into the sermon yesterday, I stated that there were two groups of people in the building. One group had taken a small step of curious faith by attending, but have never stepped into the Story God has for them. In other words, they are still lost, separated from God because of their lack of surrender to Him.

I felt led to address this and describe how the Enemy would do everything he could to keep them from taking that step. Then (to be honest - I don't believe I really expected an answer) I said, "Is there anyone here ready to step into this Story and surrender to Christ?"

I looked up to the balcony and a young man named Chris stood up.

It took just a moment for me to realize he wasn't getting up to go to the restroom. He was responding to the call. I asked "Are you ready?" He replied "Yes!"

I encouraged him to come down right then and he did. The congregation sat in awe-filled silence. I saw many whose eyes were open widely, just as wide as their mouths as their jaws dropped. It was apparent - many members of this church had never experienced anything quite like this. God was in the room and He was moving.

Chris came down. I prayed with him as hundreds watched. I introduced him to Marshall Walker, one of our deacons and Marshall and he went to our counseling area for prayer and affirmation.

I looked to the congregation and said, "Most of you didn't know someone could respond to an invitation to come to Christ unless it was at the end of the service and soft piano music was being played." There was a chuckle, partnered with the realization that the statement was true.

God interruped our service yesterday.

Well, maybe more accurately, we actually decided to follow His lead yesterday. He had an order of worship already planned. It was good. It was right. It was holy.

The message continued to the church members and those who have previously come to Christ. The reality was clear - many of us have forgotten about the Gospel. We have forgotten about our rescue. It's evident in the silence we have when engaging others in our family, workplace, neighborhood and community that we have forgotten. How is this so? There's no logical reason for keeping the rescue plan (God's plan for our salvation through Christ's death, burial and resurrection) to ourselves.

We have spiritual dementia.

The sad reality is that a side effect of this spiritual dementia is our apparent lack of love for others who are still enslaved. Are we basically saying "Just go to hell?

May we remember.

It's that important.

May we share.

It's that vital.

Rescue is available. We don't have to remain enslaved.

Yesterday, Chris was rescued. We were invited to see it happen.

 

REAL Manhood: Don't Let Anyone Despise You Because of Your Youth

Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12(ESV)

Carson Andrew is a ten year old boy living in Aynor, South Carolina. During the summer he is not sleeping late, watching TV, playing video games or playing all day in the pool like some of his friends. Rather, he is manning a sharp looking lemonade stand on a busy corner of Aynor near a popular grocery store.  He is selling ice-cold pink lemonade.

He sells pink because that was his cousin, Mary-Kate’s, favorite color.

He sells lemonade because he is trying to raise as much money as possible for the American Heart Association.

Carson’s cousin, Mary-Kate, died a few years earlier at the age of six from heart disease.

“We went to the pool, we went a lot of places,” said Carson. When she died, he made a vow to his mother to raise as much money as possible to help get the word out about heart disease and about how many children die from it each year. Heart disease is the second-biggest killer of children in the United States, behind accidents.

Many elementary school students across the nation ask family for donations during the first couple of months of school for the American Heart Association’s “Jump Rope For Heart” event. For the past two years Carson has raised more money than anyone in his state, and in 2011, he raised more money – over $10,000 – than any one individual in the nation.

“It feels really good,” he said. “The most important thing is that I’m helping people.”[i]

The money raised creates awareness and hopefully, can help fund research for treatment for heart disease. Carson may never know in this life how many he has impacted and helped.

Most people rely on large corporations or adults to lead the way regarding issues such as this. Carson stepped into the story of real manhood, even at age ten, by deciding not to sit idly by and let others do the work. With his creativity and his heart for the cause, Carson has led others to step up.

There are physical needs, such as heart disease, that affect many. There are spiritual needs, you may call it spiritual heart disease, that affects every human being. Real men understand the value of leading out. Many will convince themselves that the role of helping, praying, speaking spiritual truth into the lives of others is simple someone else’s job. The real man realizes that it is his responsibility.  There’s no place for sitting on the sideline in God’s story.

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[i] Ray, Rusty. "Aynor Boy Leads the Way in Support, Awareness of Heart Disease." WBTW. N.p., 28 June 2012. Web. 26 Oct. 2012. <http://www2.wbtw.com/news/2012/jun/28/aynor-boy-leads-way-supportawareness-heart-disease-ar-4055647/>.

Generous Gifting to Church Planters & Ministries - Spring 2013

God has truly been working through His people at First Baptist Church. Over the past few years, He has led us to strategically focus on three primary Kingdom expanding emphases: Church Planting, Orphan Care and Global Missions.

As you may know, for the past two years, God has allowed us to model proper stewardship for members of the church by how we handle the financial gifts He has provided. We desire to model good stewardship through the tithe (yes, we know the local church is not instructed to "tithe" but we choose to model this by giving a tenth - actually more than a tenth - of every dollar to Cooperative Program Missions,) debt reduction, repair and upkeep of property, savings and generous giving.

Every six months (in October and in May) we evaluate our giving and spending. For the past couple of years, our giving has exceeded spending. Money in the "overage" has been distributed in three specific areas. One-third goes to debt retirement/facility upkeep, one-third to savings in an "Emergency Fund" (in case a hurricane or other real emergency were to hit) and one-third is given to Gospel-centric ministries focused on expanding God's kingdom.

Our giving generously has been to ministries in the three areas of focus: church planting, orphan care and global missions.

This week we are pleased to share that we have been able to put money into a fund for debt retirement/upkeep with the focus on repairs in the Student Center, Worship Center and yes, painting the steeple. We have been able to place funds in our emergency fund, working toward a total of $300,000 in this fund and are able to generously give $18,000 away to ministries expanding God's Kingdom.

We are able to bless three church planters and one ministry focused on compassionate care to those in great need with gifts at this time.

MIKE HAUSER - Church Planter/Pastor of Starting Point Church in Burlington, Ontario

First Baptist Church is strategically partnered with Starting Point for the next three years. This church plant launched earlier this year. I will be leading a group of pastors from Jacksonville to Ontario this September and while there will meet with Mike and others. We have already tentatively planned a student ministry mission trip over next Spring Break to this area to work with Mike. Mike is a former youth pastor in Toronto and followed God's lead to plant Starting Point.

 

Fire it Up from Starting Point Church on Vimeo.

CALEB CRIDER - Church Planter/Missionary in Portland, Oregon

 

We have known Caleb for a couple of years and our most recent mission team to Portland met with him and numerous other church planters in the city. Caleb is serving in a hard-to-impact area of Portland, but is seeing breakthrough. This city is #11 on the most "post-Christian" cities in America. Caleb's understanding of missional living is inspiring. He is co-author of the book Tradecraft which we require our mission teams to read and work through before launching out. He is an active leader of the Portland Church Planting Network. First Baptist Church is committed to working alongside Caleb for the next three years as a partner in planting.

 

CHASE DELPERDANG - Church Planter/Pastor of Legacy Church in Tucson, Arizona

We have partnered with Chase for almost three years. His leadership at Legacy Church has led to many God-stories. He and his wife, Jennie, have an expanding family and as with all our church planters, there are financial needs that seemingly come from nowhere. Our continued partnership with Chase enables us to have an impact in another of our nation's most "post-Christian" cities.

 

This Is Tucson & We Are Legacy - The Launch Network from Legacy Community Church on Vimeo.

MERCY SUPPORT SERVICES - Rescue Ministry in Clay County

This ministry is local, but we must remember "global missions" begins right outside our front door. This ministry is focused on helping those in need who cannot seem to get a break. Through this network, churches and organizations throughout our community are able to minister to and help those in need in the name of Jesus Christ.

 

 

Some may never understand the value in giving generously to such ministries. Yet, we know this is God's desire, not just for the church, but for each Christ-follower.

We are truly blessed and understand that God blesses us so that we may be a blessing. May His Kingdom increase in Ontario, Portland, Tucson, Orange Park and throughout the world. May we remain faithful to His calling.

What the Boy Scout Vote in May Means for Our Troop

It has been widely reported in the media, though in my opinion strongly skewed by most media outlets. It is the story that has moved to the back burner, but soon will be front page headlines once again. On May 22, the national meeting of Boy Scout leaders will be presented with a proposal to change the long accepted membership and participation requirements for local chartered troops.

The policy currently reads that the Boy Scouts do "not proactively inquire about the sexual orientation of employees, volunteers or members, but does not grant membership to individuals who are open or avowed homosexuals or who engage in behavior that would become a distraction to the mission of the Boy Scouts of America."

The National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of America has proposed a new resolution, which includes the statement that "No youth may be denied membership in the Boy Scouts of America on the basis of sexual orientation or preference alone."

While the majority of parents and Scout leaders nationally have voiced opposition to this change in the policy, it appears very likely that the new policy will be adopted. The three largest "faith-based" groups that charter BSA troops are the Mormon Church, Catholic Church and Southern Baptist Churches. Unfortunately, the Mormon Church has stated their approval of the proposed "compromise" that allows gay boys, but still bars gay leaders. There has been no word from the Catholic Church as far as I know. Southern Baptist Churches, with our autonomy, will most likely have some who oppose and others who affirm the compromise.

As stated in a previous blog entry, our church strongly opposes the proposal.

I met with a great group of Scout leaders this evening. It was a difficult, but needed meeting. These volunteers serve our boys and Scouts and have done so for years. Boy Scout Troop 20 has been chartered by First Baptist Church of Orange Park for 35 years. Cub Scout Pack 20 has been here for 13. We have experienced a wonderful relationship with the Scouts for years. Numerous Eagle Scouts have emerged from our Troop. Many church members have participated as well. That being said, I want it to be clear that we love Scouting and have wholeheartedly enjoyed our partnership for years.

However, this resolution leads us to some difficult choices.

The bottom line is that if BSA approves the proposed policy change, based on our understanding of the Scriptures and the Truth of God's Word, we will no longer be able to charter Pack 20 and Troop 20 at First Baptist Church.

I met with our Deacon body last night and this issue was discussed at length. The affirmation by this body was clear - we cannot continue as a charter organization if the policy moves forward.

I echo what some Scout leaders have told me personally "We feel like we've been kicked in the gut." I have yet to find a vocal Scout leader or parent in our group that approves of the change. These families placed their boys in Scouting based on the history, heritage and purpose of Boy Scouts. Now, it appears everything is being changed. Scouting may never be the same, regardless what happens at the national vote.

Troop 20s leadership is appalled at the potential policy change. The North Florida Council (BSA) is opposed to it as well, from what I hear. Word is that regardless the vote later this month, there will be local charter organizations (mostly churches of different flavors and faiths) who will discontinue their relationship with BSA. 

I fully understand that many will see this move of discontinuing our charter as nothing more than another "Baptist church hating on gays." While there are some groups that wear the name "Baptist" and do little more than shout all that they are against in the world, this is not the case. This is not about discrimination or being hateful. 

I have stated from the pulpit numerous times that we are a church for all people. That means all are welcome to come. That means we are open to LGBT people attending our church. However, welcoming those seeking Truth, regardless of lifestyle choice does not mean we affirm the LGBT lifestyle or any other lifestyle opposed to the nature of God. Why? Because we believe the Word of God and the pointed verses speaking of the lifestyle. Now, I understand there are those who view the Scriptures differently and would love to debate the veracity of these verses. Nevertheless, we are a body of believers who see the Word of God as infallible, immutable and inerrant. The Gospel is God's love letter to us and His desire is that all of us be rescued from our lives of sin and despair. Yes, we believe openly gay lifestyles are sinful, but no more sinful than any other lifestyle choice that is opposed to God and His Word. That is why we all need a Savior. Therefore, we do not affirm anyone's openly sinful lifestyle. Yet, we love them (you) any way. At least that is our desire.

You may not agree with us on this. You have that right. I wouldn't begin to assert you do not.

However, for our church to continue to charter Troop and Pack 20 with a national BSA policy in place that clearly opposes our biblical mores, would be hypocritical at best.

Some questions about how this fits with a missional theology have arisen. These are questions I have had to wrestle with as well. We own a building (well, almost - the bank owns most of it still.) We have been placed in a community strategically by God to impact it for the sake of the Gospel. We open our facilities for numerous groups at times. Whether a local school band, sixth grade graduation, baccalaureate services, sports team practices, narcotic recovery groups, community gatherings,  music lessons, etc. we still see the use of our facilities as nothing more than a stewardship of God's facilities for the sake of reaching our local world for Christ.

What's the difference in just handing the keys to the rooms to our Troop/Pack and letting them continue? The difference here is that, in a very real sense, we "own" these groups. The name of our church is printed on every Boy Scout's neckerchief. T-shirts for Pack 20 have "First Baptist Church of Orange Park" emblazoned on them. We have been proud to allow and have even encouraged this. Yet, if the policy (which in our view is opposed to biblical teaching) is adopted, we cannot allow this. Oh, and even if the groups remove our name, we would still be the charter organization, so this is deeper than a name silk screened or embroidered on an item of clothing. 

An initial option proposed by the national board as they attempted to push through an agenda affirming openly gay lifestyles,  was to allow the local charter organization the right to choose to allow or disallow openly gay boys and leaders in the Troops. Had that option been moved forward, it would have done nothing but set us up, as well as other charter groups who oppose admitting gay participants, for a lawsuit. There is no doubt in my mind that groups such as the ACLU would be bringing numerous churches to court over the issue. This would be nothing more than a distraction and even if the suit were won, a loss of funding for the mission of God.

That proposal was shelved by the Board after much opposition was experienced.

This new proposal supersedes this and eliminates the option for local Troops/Packs and charter organizations to disallow openly gay boys. It does state that openly gay Scout leaders are prohibited, which, to me and even to gay rights activists seems ridiculous. In other words, it's OK for a boy to be gay up to age 18 and then not.

If this proposal is approved, it is widely known that it is nothing more than a first step. Openly gay scout leaders will be next on the agenda. I would not doubt if, down the line, a situation much like the Girl Scouts were facing a couple of years ago would be next. Boy Scouts would eventually be positioned to allow transgendered participants. 

As one mother stated in tonight's meeting, "It's a slippery slope."

The most frustrating thing about the entire issue is that it pulls Scout leaders, charter groups and Scout parents away from that which Scouting is all about. The meeting tonight should never have had to happen. The BSA is creating a problem and the collateral damage will be the boys, regardless the outcome later this month. I feel the greatest empathy for those close to earning their Eagle Scout.

While I truly hate this, I must stand on the Word of God. In fact, we, the church must stand on the Word of God. If the BSA approves the proposed change on May 22, it ultimately means that Boy Scouts of America has nullified the agreement with First Baptist Church of Orange Park. Sadly, that means that come August 2013, Troop 20 and Pack 20 will no longer be meeting at our church, nor proudly wearing our name. In other words, we are NOT kicking the Scouts out. The BSA has chosen to enact a policy that eliminates our ability to partner with them. So, we wait.

But. . .

The vote hasn't happened, yet. 

Join me in praying for the national leaders of BSA as well as our local Troop, Pack, leaders, parents and boys. My prayer is that come May 23, we will breathe a sigh of relief and continue on in our healthy relationship as charter organization and Scout troop. Regardless what happens, pray for the boys and their families. 

Will Boy Scouts of America die over this? I doubt it, but it will be harmed greatly and may never recover fully.

We, however, must stand firm on God's Word. That is not up for a vote.

 

Related articles

Boy Scouts, the Gay Agenda and the Local Church

Boy Scouts of America Survey: 61% Support Current Policy of Excluding Homosexuals

Jesus Christ - God's "Amen" to the Gospel

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Sunday's message is attached. The primary passage is 1 Corinthians 14. Some highlight points:

• I rather speak five words you can understand than thousands in a tongue that you cannot. (1 Corinthians 14:19)
• Most believers have the wrong idea of what the gift of prophecy is.
• Spirituality is increasing in our culture. . .just not Christian spirituality.
• Spirituality apart from Christ is empty.
• Jacksonville is the #77 Post-Christian city in America. If we really work at it and continue doing what we're doing, we can move up to #50, I'm sure. (sarcasm)
• The Word is to proclaimed, preached, taught and prophesied.
• Worship can be quiet, loud, exciting, reverent, but must always be orderly and holy.
• "Amen" is not an "attaboy" for the preacher.
• Jesus is God's "Amen" to the Gospel.
• Some people are members of the church, but never engage and haven't been in years.
• These "members" keep their names on the roll just to get a free venue for funerals and weddings.
• "Amen" is "Yes!"
• You need an "Amen" in your life.

Related articles

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If One Suffers, We All Suffer. If One Is Honored, We All Rejoice Together

REAL Manhood: General Ted

Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13(ESV)

It was D-Day. Ted was the only general to land with the first wave of troops. In fact, his presence in the Higgins boat was by his own design.  He had volunteered to go in with his “boys.”

The only problem was now that he was on the shore, he was confused. Something was wrong. The maps didn’t match the terrain. Nothing was where it was supposed to be. They were in the wrong place and he was frustrated.

Ted stumbled in the sand. His arthritis was acting up worse than usual. He was in constant pain and had to use a cane. He was fifty-seven years old and leading a group of soldiers one third his age into the greatest battle of modern warfare.

The general was angry, in pain, frustrated and not where he was supposed to be. Not only that, the men were looking to him for direction. Mortar shells were exploding all around him and his men. One exploded close by and the force almost tripped him headlong over his cane. The shells came closer and with more regularity. He sensed that maybe he was the target.

He was trying to hold a frontline conference with his officers. He couldn’t be heard over the explosions and that was truly annoying him. In spite of his limp and arthritis, his men stated that he appeared to be hopping all over the beach like a young man. Some said he looked like he was surveying a piece of real estate as he stooped down from place to place with cane in one hand and map in the other.

This general, Brigadier General Theodore Roosevelt, was a man of strong character. He was the proud son of the former President and a true leader of men. In fact, one of the men to soon land on Omaha Beach was his son Quentin. The Roosevelts would not sit out this war.

However, they were still in the wrong place. The choppy waters had placed them at Utah Beach, in a place that didn’t match their maps. Now, he had to make a decision. Roosevelt was crouched in a crater created by an exploded mortar round. His officers were with him. Over 1000 men were lying on their stomachs I the sand and all eyes were directed toward the crater awaiting orders. His orders would determine if this beachhead could be held and would lead those soldiers on their way to either join them or land elsewhere.

What General Roosevelt said next surprised his officers. “I’m going ahead with the landings men. Call the Navy and tell them to bring the rest and follow us. Wherever we are, the war starts here!”

Roosevelt was a loyal leader of men. He led courageously when the story had changed. He knew the battle ahead was necessary and that he had to make the decision to move forward. He was a true leader not due to his rank, his name, or his position, but due to his character. He stepped up and led courageously.

When Sanballat Shows Up

Sanballat may not be a biblical character easy to place at first. However, I know many pastors who bristle when the name Sanballat is brought up, as well as his frient Tobiah. These two men were adversaries to Nehemiah in the book that bears his name. In the Old Testament, Nehemiah heard the voice of God, put his life on the line, gained the permission of the pagan king he served and traveled to Jeruslaem, the city of his heritage, for the purpose of rebuilding the city wall.

There have been many sermons and studies presented on Nehemiah and his great building project. Often the Nehemiah series is tied to a church's building program initiation. 

However, there is such depth in this little book, that is shouldn't be relegated to building program messages alone. 

Every pastor, at some point in service, will discover a Sanballat in his midst. Sanballat is often a member of the church. Sometimes he (and he may be a "she") is a member who has been instrumental in the church for years. He may have served as a leader on committees, the deacon body, a small group leader, usher, or any number of roles in the church. 

Sometimes Sanballat is a new member or attender. He may not have a long history in the congregation, but he does bring influence, albeit not positive influence.

Sanballat in Scripture was a Horonite. He opposed the rebuilding of the wall. He opposed Nehemiah.

Tobiah was his buddy. He was an Ammonite. He too opposed the Jews and Nehemiah's plan. He was a follower. He did whatever Sanballat said. 

Sanballat always has a Tobiah. They find each other. They feed off each other. They do nothing but oppose that which God has ordained. They are tools of the Enemy, the author of confusion, and I believe often unknowningly do more to move the Kingdom of God backward than they realize. I've discovered Sanballat often thinks he is doing the work of God. Yet, and it's not just my opinion, but the observation of many others, he is truly a bitter,angry person and eventually finds himself alone. Even Tobiah fades away.

At least this is my experience.

So, what do you do when Sanballat arrives?

Chalk it up to "when" not "if." The Enemy has his tactics. He's not creative. He does the same thing over and over. It's a foolish strategy, but it works because we often forget and fall for the same traps.

In Nehemiah's case, these two heard of the rebuild. Their anger grew and they began to work on strategy.

Now when Sanballat heard that we were building the wall, he was angry and greatly enraged, and he jeered at the Jews. And he said in the presence of his brothers and of the army of Samaria, "What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore it for themselves? Will they sacrifice? Will they finish up in a day? Will they revive the stones out of the heaps of rubbish, and burned ones at that?" Tobiah the Ammonite was beside him, and he said, "Yes, what they are building-- if a fox goes up on it he will break down their stone wall!" Nehemiah 4:1-3 (ESV)

Nehemiah's response is key. He prays. He asks God for strength to move forward with the task at hand. The work he was doing was God's work. Therefore, he knew he must continue. He also knew in his own power, he could not succeed, so he talked to the Father. Continually.

The problem in a church is negative influence. Sanballat often has influence. He may not be loud, but he's a communicator. It may be through emails, phone calls, conversations by the coffee pot on Sundays, maybe even in the restroom or while handing out bulletins. Rest assured, the talk is happening. The tendency of many pastors is to do just the opposite - to clam up.

You may have a vision for the church. You may have a strategy for growth and discipleship and missional involvement. The question is "How much are you communicating to the church about this?" Just because you've stated it, blogged it, emailed about it and said it once does not mean it's heard. Clear, concise communication of the vision, the strategy and the missional theology of the church must continue. Then, when Sanballat is offering his questions, which sound much like a question offered in the first few chapters of Genesis by a serpent. . ."Did he really say. . .?" your people will have an answer. They will know the truth.

Sanballat and Tobiah mocked the building of the wall. The people heard them. Yet, they heard Nehemiah as well and his clear, concise, God-focused words of the task at hand kept the workers on task. 

There will always be distractions. Be ready.

Perhaps the greatest response to Sanballat in the Nehemiah's story happens in chapter 6. Sanballat and Tobiah and others are at work. Look here. . .

Now when Sanballat and Tobiah and Geshem the Arab and the rest of our enemies heard that I had built the wall and that there was no breach left in it ( although up to that time I had not set up the doors in the gates), Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, "Come and let us meet together at Hakkephirim in the plain of Ono." But they intended to do me harm. And I sent messengers to them, saying, "I am doing a great work and I cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and come down to you?" Nehemiah 6:1-3 (ESV)

The distractors say "Come, let's have a meeting." Sounds innocent enough, but Nehemiah knows better. Nowadays, it's "Can we meet for lunch?" or something like that. (Now, don't get me wrong - lunch meetings are great, just not with Sanballat.)

Nehemiah's response is classic "I am doing a great work and I cannot come down."

I love this.

This is the key. 

This is the answer we as pastors and leaders must give to the Sanballats in our lives. A paraphrase would be "I am doing something that matters in a really big story - God's story. I cannot stop this to join you in your small story." He confronted them with truth.

Sounds rude at first, but remember, it's Sanballat. There's an agenda and it's not Kingdom growth.

So, what do you do?

1. Pray
2. Recognize Sanballat for who he is
3. Communicate vision clearly with the church
4. Confront the issue
5. Avoid the distractions (you cannot come down)

I know, it's much easier said than done, but it's doable and over time. . .Sanballat loses his voice. Oh, another with arise. Remember, the Enemy isn't creative. 

So, stay focused and remember "I am doing a great work and I cannot come down."

What Does Jason Collins "Coming Out" Mean?

On Monday, April 29, journeyman NBA center Jason Collins released a statement of his coming out as gay. My first reaction to hearing of this "landmark" announcement by an active player in one of our four major professional sports leagues was, "Who is Jason Collins?"

Suddenly a player who averaged 3.6 points per game, 3.8 rebounds per game and 0.9 assists per game in an 11 year NBA career is the most talked about player in the nation. During the season of the NBA Playoffs featuring LeBron, Durant, Wade and a host of other superstars, this story moves to the front page. Jason Collins now makes on the cover of Sports Illustrated. Unfortunately, it's not because of his skill on the court. Nevertheless, the nation knows who Jason Collins is.

The story truly isn't about basketball. In fact, I expect our next headline will be an active NFL player or MLB player stepping out in this way. Based on the reaction publicized in the media, it's a given.

What does Collins' coming out mean for me? Not much, honestly. However, it does once more reveal that we are now in the season where to be LBGT is not only accepted, but celebrated.

In Albert Mohler's Tuesday Briefing, he shares of the "overwhelming celebration of homosexuality and the marginalization of all who disagree." He's right. According to media reports, the adulation placed on Collins is huge. Tweets and quotes from current and former players, coaches, Presidents, and others who have come out as LBGT is immense.

Statements of affirmation get top billing in reports:

However, those, who dare to say anything somewhat critical or concerning about Collins's statement or the homosexual lifestyle are being, predictably, labeled as close-minded, hate-filled, and uninformed. We are living in the day that was predicted by Josh McDowell years ago in his book Right From Wrong, where tolerance is the norm, but only tolerance of things outside biblical mores and long-held Judeao-Christian ethics.

This is evidenced in the response to comments made by ESPN analyst Chris Broussard on Outside the Lines. I applaud Broussard's consistency in his statements and am not surprised that he is being demonized by many. His statement is as follows:

"I'm a Christian. I don't agree with homosexuality. I think it's a sin, as I think all sex outside of marriage between a man and a woman is. [ESPN's] L.Z. [Granderson] knows that. He and I have played on basketball teams together for several years. We've gone out, had lunch together, we've had good conversations, good laughs together. He knows where I stand and I know where he stands. I don't criticize him, he doesn't criticize me, and call me a bigot, call me ignorant, call me intolerant.

"In talking to some people around the league, there's a lot Christians in the NBA and just because they disagree with that lifestyle, they don't want to be called bigoted and intolerant and things like that. That's what LZ was getting at. Just like I may tolerate someone whose lifestyle I disagree with, he can tolerate my beliefs. He disagrees with my beliefs and my lifestyle but true tolerance and acceptance is being able to handle that as mature adults and not criticize each other and call each other names.

"... Personally, I don't believe that you can live an openly homosexual lifestyle or an openly premarital sex between heterosexuals, if you're openly living that type of lifestyle, then the Bible says you know them by their fruits, it says that's a sin. If you're openly living in unrepentant sin, whatever it may be, not just homosexuality, adultery, fornication, premarital sex between heterosexuals, whatever it may be, I believe that's walking in open rebellion to God and to Jesus Christ. I would not characterize that person as a Christian because I do not think the Bible would characterize them as a Christian."

The above statement was actually a clarification of what was said earlier and it is apparent that he has thought through this and is not being swayed. While some have seen and will see it as hateful words, the reality is that a proper reading (if an unbiased one is even possible) shows nothing more than an individual stating what he believes based on his faith and personal mores.

I know there are many who see the LGBT lifestyle as wrong. For some, it's based on their faith. For others, it is based on personal feelings. Regardless of the reason, it is true that those who dare speak out against the lifestyle, especially in our current culture, will find themselves marginalized and considered uncaring, unloving and wrong, in addition to many other labels.

No, homosexuality is not the biggest sin out there. It's not the only sin. It's not the worst sin. But, it is sin.

I don't know Jason Collins, but from all that's been said about him from former teammates, coaches, friends and current players, he is a great guy. He is the kind of friend anyone would want. He is now more than a journeyman basketball player. He is the face of the gay athlete in America (sorry, Martina and Greg Louganis) and will be touted as an inspiration for high school, college and other pro athletes to declare their LGBT affinity publicly.

I don't think he should be demonized by those who disagree. That will happen and it's unfortunate.

What should be the response of Christ followers to Collins and others who struggle with same-sex attraction? (Yes, I used the term "struggle with same-sex attraction" rather than "who are LGBT" and that was intentional.) We should respond as Jesus stated when asked what the greatest commandment was. . .

And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” - Luke 10:27 (ESV)

We must remember that love does not mean affirm. Jesus loved sinners (that would be all of us, by the way) but did not say "Just stay the way you are." Sin is a cancer that spreads quickly. We are all infected and all sin is equal (that's hard to fathom) and we all need a Savior.

Oh, I understand there's an agenda. I know there's a concerted movement at work. Still, in the midst of all of that are individuals in need of life, a life that is full and free and clean.

That's what Jesus offers.

That's why we're here.

Related articles

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The One Thing That Is Killing Churches

Earlier today in staff meeting, we continued our ongoing conversation about the journey of living missionally. Of course, we preface any discussion regarding missional by acknowledging that the term has been misused, if not overused in the current church culture.

“The word ‘missional’ over the years has tended to become very fluid and as it was quickly co-opted by those wishing to find new and trendy tags for what they themselves were doing, be they missional or not. It is often used as a substitute for seeker-sensitive, cell-group church, or other church growth concepts, thus obscuring its original meaning.”  – Alan Hirsch

For a pretty good and concise definition of "missional" click here for the Missional Church Network's take on it.

I like what Reggie McNeal said years about about the "missional church" being a redundant term. In fact, there's no such thing as a New Testament church that isn't missional. However, there are numerous gropus gathering around our nation and community weekly claiming to be the church, but are little more than clubs.

But. . .you've heard me talk about this before, no doubt.

The challenge of living missionally as a Christ-follower and being a church that never forfeits the missional DNA is the ever-present push of those who claim to know Christ, enjoy fellowship with others and allow, although most often unwittingly, for the emphasis of ministry to turn inward, rather than outword.

Jen Hatmaker, a writer, blogger, church planter/pastor's wife, and speaker shared about "How to Kill a Missional Community" at the Verge Network Conference in 2012. I led training for area church planters last Saturday and shared the clip below. We also watched it today in our staff meeting. These are wise words and there's value in hearing what is said.

 

Some good points to ponder:

• Consumerism is a cancer to missional community.
• Attempting to build an outward-facing faith community with believers who are intent on just getting their owns needs met is simply unsustainable.
• If we develop a church bent on serving the saved, then the already blessed people will come wanting more blessings.
• You will draw the type of people who crave what you're offering.
• Only Christians want forty Christian programs to choose from.
• If we're positioned to reach Christians, then Christians we will reach.
• The (local) church has a very limited amount of resources. If we consume them all for programs for saved people, then we cannot expect our folks to live on mission elsewhere.
• If we're drowning in a sea of Christian consumers, we'd better take a hard look at the scaffolding we have built.

I asked the staff to respond. The resounding answer was "OUCH!"

Yep, it hurts, because we know it to be true. Yet, this is a continual shift for many. This disavows the default in our lifestyles and our belief systems. The reality is that we (humanity) easily default to self-centeredness and wanting things how we want them. That's why the Great Commandment to love the Lord our God with all we have and our neighbors as ourselves is so radical. It pushes against the default setting in our hearts.

What does this mean? Where do we go from here?

We know what is broken. We often just don't know how to fix it.

I've come to the realization that we cannot fix it. Definitely not on our own. What would do? Create a program to lead people away from reliance on programs?

As was stated in the clip and affirmed by many others - programs, in and of themselves, are not bad. They're tools of ministry. They are avenues of service. It's just that our consumeristic defaults crave more "stuff" and many churches, since we're full of self-centric human beings (not throwing stones, including myself here,) do the best they can and still, in their own power, create more inwardly focused programs and events.

Thus, missional doesn't happen.

That is called sin.

The truly "missional movement" of churches and believers today is a reclamation of deep doctrine, heretofore left on the back burner. Which means, with this movement, these are indeed incredible times for the Kingdom of God.

To grow as fully-devoted followers of Christ (i.e. disciples) means more than adding the adjective "missional" to programs, tasks, events, etc. Yes, we're called to live missionally, but to do so means we must be surrendered to Christ at such a deep level that we're living incarnationally in a world that needs the Gospel!

We are His ambassadors. This is not "new news."

Even here in the "buckle of the Bible belt" our city, Jacksonville, is increasingly becoming more and more "post-Christian." Hey, we're number 77 on Barna's latest list. What this means, practically, is that to continue doing church with an inward focus will result in nothing but higher and higher numbers of those in our communities who see the church as irrelevant and unneeded.

This is much to consider. There is much to do and yet, we have come far. At least we are recognizing the issues more clearly now.

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They Will Know We Are Christians By Our Love (But What Does That Look Like?)

042813_915_Keep Calm 23

In 1 Corinthians, chapter 13 is perhaps the most widely known section. These words are read at weddings often and carry a sense of awe and honor due to the subject matter - love.

The subject, however, is not randomly floating alone in the book waiting for the next wedding to come around so it can be read aloud once more. This “love chapter” falls on the heels of an affirmation by God that as a church, unity is to be the norm. Unity among Christ followers is impossible apart from love. Therefore, an accurate definition of the word is essential.

Christianity apart from love, isn’t true Christianity.

Christianity without love is a contradiction.

There are many, many verses in Scripture that touch on this concept of love. Love – that which we all know and seek, but sometimes have a hard time describing and fully understanding.

Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. John 12:24-25 (ESV)

Then there’s this most famous verse that relates to love.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (ESV)

Love seems to be connected to death at some level. We don’t like to think about this, but it’s here in black (or red) and white.

“Whoever loves his life loses it. . .”

“For God so loved the world, that He gave. . .”

Then we see Paul’s listing of what love looks like.

• Love is patient - The word used here “makrothymia” means having the capacity to be wronged and not retaliate. According to all we have read in the previous chapters, there were many members who had been wronged (lawsuits, fights, etc.) How one responds when wronged is a picture of a person’s heart and walk with Christ.
• Love is kind
• Love does not envy
• Love does not boast - Envy and boasting speak of our tendency to be prideful. There’s no room in a Christ-followers life for pride and love. The word for pride appears seven times in the New Testament and six of those are in this letter to the Corinthian church. However, they did not have a monopoly on pride.
• Love is not arrogant
• Love is not rude
• Love doesn’t insist on having one’s own way
• Love is not irritable - The Greek word here means more than just having a poor disposition. It also refers to the keeping of a list of wrongdoing.
• Love is not resentful
• Love does not rejoice when wrongs are done
• Love rejoices in truth
• Love bears all things
• Love believes all things
• Love hopes all things
• Love endures all things
• Love never ends

The four beginning with "love bears all things" are challenging. Bears, believes, hopes and endures all things. What does this mean? Does this mean that we are to believe everything we hear because we love? No. It can’t. We live in a world where lies abound. The Father of Lies is at work all around us. What then?

Look at these statements as bookends – Bears and Endures speaks of our relationship with other people. The inner two – Believes and Hopes – speaks of our responsibility to the Lord. They echo the triad of faith, hope and love stated at the close of the passage.

With the pairing of bears/endures and believes/hopes defined, check out this paraphrase of the passage to perhaps better explain it:

Love is not for the faint of heart. It is a hard road. Whenever you hear the call to patience (v.4) you know it will be hard—but love is a very good road. So let me say it again: you will bear with and endure relationships in which you feel unloved. Expect this to happen in the church. Expect this to happen even in the home! And when it does you will be tempted to be angry and resentful. But the way of Christ and him crucified is best. He bore with us and endured with us when he was rejected, and his good plan is that we be given the same opportunity. How will you bear and endure? You will do so by believing and hoping—in Jesus alone. If you are believing and hoping in the other person, love will fall flat, but if your trust is sequestered in Jesus Christ, you will have power to love that you never anticipated was possible.

Love ultimately is selfless. Self must die to truly love. So, y0u see, love is connected to death in this way.

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Boy Scouts, the Gay Agenda and the Local Church

I knew this document would come. It arrived last week. As the charter representative, I filled it out, signed it and signified that it is our organization's (First Baptist Church) opinion that we are STRONGLY OPPOSED to the proposed national resolution.

This has to do with the Boy Scouts of America.

For decades, First Baptist Church has proudly been the charter organization for Troop 20 of the Boys Scouts of America and the North Florida Council. Over recent months, leadership at the BSA executive board (national level, not North Florida) has promoted and pushed an agenda that many thought was dealt with years ago.

In 2000, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Boy Scouts of America v. Dale, by a vote of 5 to 4 that the BSAs policy of not allowing openly gay Scouts or Scout Leaders was legal and within the rights of the organization based upon its core values. By reading reviews and stories of this case even now, the terminology of the result shows that many in the media and blogosphere differ with the Court's opinion. The phrase "Scouts could legally discriminate against gays" as stated in one such blog on the New Yorker's website is an example. It's a common position, yet still not a majority one.

The shift in proposed policy, as led by the executive board has caught many by surprise.

Initially, the news media reported that the executive board desired to allow openly gay Scout leaders and boys to participate in troops. When that met with pushback, the group adusted its position to state that it would leave the decision to the local charter organizations. While that sounds like a compromise, it basically leaves the local charter organizations open for civil rights (i.e. gay rights) lawsuits. Oh, by the way, we are a local charter organization. Yeah, this news caught my attention.

In private conversations with Scout leaders and parents, the consensus is one of frustration and concern. I have yet to encounter a sense of "hate" or "anger" when it comes to those who publicly profess to be homosexual. There is, however, a sense of frustration with the executive board in having an openly gay agenda pushed upon them, or at least the perception of such. Rather, I have discovered that many involved in the organization deem the previously held positions (as affirmed in the 2000 Supreme Court victory) as sufficient.

What may have seemed like an easy win for gay rights advocates and those on the executive board soon was realized as a difficult mountain to climb. Rather than vote on the resolution as a board, a wise decision was made to push the decision to the voting members of the national convention, held next month. I am a propoent of allowing the full organization vote on such an issue. I believe that those who strongly support as well as those who strongly oppose such a resolution should be given the opportunity to vote on the issue. I applaud the board in making this decision.

Now, the latest turn has been an adjustment in the proposal. The executive board is now proposing that boys in Scouting can "come out" and be openly gay without fear of being removed from the troop. Openly gay boys will be allowed to join Scouts as well. However, gay leaders will not be allowed to participate and serve.

This is the most confusing stance. Those on both sides of the issue are confounded.

New Yorker writer, attorney, political strategist, writer and long-time gay rights advocate Richard Socarides writes of this on his blog. He calls it a mixed message where one type of "discrimination" is allowed while another is forbidden. You can read his full post here.

Tony Perkins, president of the Washington D.C.-based lobbying organization Family Research Council, has also stated the mixed message is confusing. He called the new proposal "incoherent." Perkins stated, "The proposal says, in essence, that homosexuality is morally acceptable until a boy turns 18 - then, when he comes of age, he's removed from the Scouts."

Consequently, while some see the BSAs move to "inclusion" as progress, the vast majority of members and charter organizations apparently do not.

It's a confusing move on numerous levels. The BSA has been surveying its scouting family recently and on Friday, April 19, released its findings. "Current Policy" refers to not allowing openly gay leaders or Scouts.

Among the findings as shared in a Baptist Press article dated April 19 are:

• 61 percent of adult Scout members favor the current policy, while 34 percent oppose it.
• 61 percent of Boy Scout parents support the current policy, while 50 percent of Cub Scout parents back it (45 percent of Cub Scout parents oppose it.)
• 51 percent of major donors support the current policy while 33 percent oppose it. However, a majority of Fortune 500 companies want to see the policy changed.
• A majority of teens age 16-18 in the Boy Scouts program oppose the current policy. A percentage was not given, but in my opinion, this is no surprise based on cultural shifts among the millenial generation related to this issue.
• BSA stated that parents, teens and the Scouting community "a local option" as proposed in February. The "local option" is what I mentioned earlier regarding the local charter organization deciding.

Click here to read the BSAs Membership Standards Resolution proposal.

A vote will take place in May at the national convention. Regardless the result of that vote, the issue will not die. Scouting will be affected. It is my contention that the effect will not be positive. If the convention votes "no" on the new proposal, the anti-gay rhetoric will intensify as the organization and charter groups will be demonized at an even deeper level. In truth, I'm okay with that. It's a stand on a biblical and moral truth that is not to be compromised. However, the collateral damage (i.e. the boys in Scouting) may be deep.

If the convention votes "yes" on the proposal, then many charter organizations will have to revisit their partnership with the BSA. This is, in my opinion, a tragedy.

My opposition to the new resolution will immediately categorize me, in some people's view, as a discriminator, a hater, and a fulfillment of a negative stereotype. However, I deem that my opposition to the new resolution affirms my support for the Gospel and the definition of biblical manhood and womanhood, not to mention the right of an organization such as the Boy Scouts of America to remain committed to the mores agreed upon at its founding and affirmed over the decades.

I know God is not surprised by this situation. Therefore, I'm praying for His guidance, peace and will be done. I'm praying that those who deeply love Scouting and all that it stands for will "be prepared" regardless the outcome of the vote.

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Would Jesus Go to Youth Camp?

Summer is upon us. Yes, I know that's hard to believe. The older I get the faster the days are. In the world of the American church and our varied ministries, summer typically means two months of camps, mission trips, Vacation Bible School, beach trips, abbreviated schedules and hit or miss attendance of church members due to vacations.

One of the staples of most American evangelical churches is youth camp. Every summer teenagers gather in camp grounds, beach locations and resorts for camp. Camps have evolved over the years.

Most camps work off a similar schedule and concept. There are variations, but in most cases, this is the schedule:

• On the first day (most often Monday) students arrive to much fanfare. Following a long bus ride, or in some cases, a convoy of rented vans, students who have been traveling in their pajamas, with luggage in tow and their pillow from home, disembark the vehicle at the camp location. 
• Rooms are assigned. Students complain about the fact the student pastor has assigned roommates. 
• The week of camp officially begins.
• Most often there is an evening worship service featuring the camp band/worship leader and camp pastor. In addition to venue, these individuals are key for the student pastor in determining which camp to attend.
• Each day (Tuesday - Thursday) is pretty similar. Each camp utilizes this time differently. The most effective camps do their best to eliminate any semblance of "free time." To the parent and student pastor, "free time" is code for "get into trouble time." Therefore, tight schedules are sought.
• Most often, depending on camp location and weather patterns, the day begins with breakfast, small group teaching times, lunch, outdoor recreation, other group activities and then the evening worship time. 
• Since most camps work with a weekly theme or topic, the messages are pointed and intentional. 
• Often, and I've been privy to many such events, the Holy Spirit of God, who has been working on the hearts and souls of students throughout the week leads to a point of decision and devotion.

It can be formulaic, but then, so can Sunday morning worship and Bible study. The great thing about a camp situation is the strategic disconnect from the "real" world. In truth, the disconnect from all the noise of everyday life is often essential to hear the still, small voice of God.

It is my contention that when a camp is prayed over and surrendered to the Lordship of Christ, great things happen. I have experienced numerous God-moments at such camps. Oh, the games are fun, the cheers are uniting, the event is cool, but that's just the surface. It's what happens in the open heart of a student that is transformational.

When a student meets with God, intentionally and honestly, great things happen. This doesn't have to happen at camp. . .but it does often. 

Our prayer has always been that the group we return home with would be different than the group that began the week of camp. Different from the inside out. God stories written upon their hearts. 

No, it's not the only place God works, but He does mighty works at such places.

So, would Jesus go to youth camp? Yes. He modeled getting away from it all in order to hear from the Father. In fact, He goes to youth camp each year. I pray we have students who will meet Him this summer and be transformed forever.

Due to what we know about youth camp and about the spirituality of teenagers in our culture, our church and others should do everything possible to enable all teenagers in the community to attend. Yes, it's that big of a deal. I'm praying through how to do this with our Associate Pastors and leaders.

Our students will be attending StudentLife Camp at Covenant College in the mountains of north Georgia. The dates are June 10-14. Cost is $319 per person (due by May 15.) Click here to register.

 

If One Suffers, We All Suffer. If One Is Honored, We All Rejoice Together

 

042113_1045_Keep Calm 22

 

Unity in the church is not only desired by God, but expected. In Jesus' High Priestly prayer, he speaks of this:

John 17:11(ESV)
And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. 

Paul then speaks specifically, to the local church (thereby affirming membership within a local body of believers) regarding the role and value of each member within the body. This speaks to unity, function and value.

1 Corinthians 12:12(ESV)
For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 

As I was reading through chapter 12, this verse stood out for me. This, once again, is affirmation why God desires His people to do life together in community, as the church, for His glory.

1 Corinthians 12:26(ESV)
If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.

The clip below from the film "Coach Carter" gives a great illustration of how this looks.

 

Click the audio link above to hear the full message from yesterday.

What a Difference a Day Makes

Yesterday morning we woke up to some amazing news regarding the Boston Marathon bombers. As the day unfolded, more and more details and parts of the story became known:

• The bombers had been identified.
• There was a carjacking.
• An MIT police officer named Sean Collier was killed.
• A Mass Transit police officer, Richard Donahue was shot.
• There was a car chase.
• There was a shootout.
• Pipe bombs were thrown out of the car toward police.
• The older bomber was killed.
• The younger bomber escaped on foot.
• Watertown, Massachusetts was put on lock down.
• Federal, state and local police, as well as National Guard units worked in tandem to find the whereabouts of the second bomber.

Even though everyone outside the Boston area attempted to go about life as normal, the news of the day was magnetic. It was virtually impossible to peel oneself away from the news. All the media outlets were sharing the same information, but I found myself switching channels and looking online just in case there was something new. 

Prayers for those in the city and those tasked with finding the remaining bomber were being said.

Then, the news broke. They found him.

In less than twenty-four hours, the emotional pendulum swung from fear to relief. 

Of course, the story is not fully known. There are lingering questions. Questions about a potential terrorism cell. Questions that lead with "Why?" and "How?" and "When?" regarding the Chechnyan bombers, their family, friends and possible connections. We pray for answers to these questions, but in the midst of uncertainty, we can celebrate.

Terrorism is here. We live in a Post-9/11 America and world. We (meaning typical Americans) may have slid into a false sense of safety in an unsafe world. Things have changed. The days of innocence seem to be gone. Perhaps they were never here. We live in a fallen world and the "Father of Terror" continues to run rampant.

Nevertheless, as followers of Christ, we have been given the supernatural capacity for peace. It is a peace that passes understanding. It is a peace and joy of knowing that God is still in control.

Much has transpired in the last 24 hours.

We can celebrate. It is good to do so. Seeing the citizens of Watertown and Boston spontaneously celebrating in the streets last night was good. Hearing the fans at the Boston Bruins game sing the national anthem loudly as a statement of unity and freedom was exciting. Even watching Neil Diamond lead the Red Sox fans in their traditional anthem of "Sweet Caroline" made me smile. 

What a difference a day makes.

We should still be praying for those in the Boston area and especially those recovering from injuries and the ones grieving the loss of loved ones.  Pray for those tasked with protecting, serving and rescuing the hurt and endangered.

Remember God is good. . .all the time. All the time. . . God is good. (It's more than a reigious cliche'.)

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REAL Manhood: Chesty Puller. . .a Marine's Marine

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9(ESV)

Lewis Burwell Puller was born in West Point, Virginia. He grew up listening to stories by local Civil War veterans sharing of their exploits. While just a young man, his father died. His childhood hero was Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson and he wanted to be a soldier just like him. His desire was to serve in the Army. The modest beginnings of this young man deny the greatness of his heroism and leadership.

In 1916 when battles were taking place in Mexico, he wanted to join the Army, but he was too young and his mother refused to sign consent for him. Nevertheless, he ended up at Virginia Military Institute and just one year later enlisted in the Marine Corps. Through the years and numerous wars to come, Puller, known as “Chesty” (because of his bull chest) became a leader of men. Puller is the most decorated US Marine in history and the only Marine to be awarded five Navy Crosses.

He served in World War II and the Korean War as well as numerous other conflicts globally.

The Battle of Chosin Reservoir was one of the bloodiest and most difficult conflicts of the Korean War. It was also a decisive battle in the war. Shortly after China entered the conflict, the Chinese army infiltrated the northeastern part of Korea and surprised the Americans there. Soldiers and Marines were surrounded. The battle would last seventeen days during the freezing weather. The 30,000 UN troops under American command were surrounded by 67,000 Chinese troops. Things did not look good.

Forced into these circumstances was Lieutenant General Lewis Burwell “Chesty” Puller.

Chesty was a leader of men and they were looking for inspiration and guidance. As he calmly surveyed the situation, he said “They’re on our right. They’re on our left. They’re in front of us. They’re behind us. They can’t get away from us this time.”

When outnumbered and totally surrounded, Chesty just smiled was so appreciative that his enemies had the decency to come straight at him, since he was apparently tired of walking over to them to attack.

The American and UN forces broke through the Chinese blockade that day. They not only freed themselves from the siege defeated the enemy.

Chesty was a leader of men. Young soldiers and marines flocked to him because of his leadership. He was a fireball. One of his most famous quotes was after he was shown a flamethrower for the first time. He looked it over and asked, “Where do you put the bayonet.” 

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Orphan Care Initiative: Step One for Foster Care & Adoption Complete

Last week our first series of PRIDE Classes (no - it has nothing to do with gay rights) here at First Baptist Church. PRIDE is a state required class by the state of Florida for those wishing to foster or adopt a child. PRIDE is an acronym that stands for "Parent Resources for Information, Development, and Education."

Our partners at the Florida Baptist Children's Homes led these classes on Wednesday evening. We are so blessed to have such a ministry in our state. 

Kaytee Jimenez, our Orphan Care Coordinator worked with the FBCH to secure these classes here on our campus and our desire is to offer them regularly for our church and the Christian community here in Clay County.

I was so very encouraged to see the number of people attending the classes, and especially sticking with them through completion.

What does this mean for these families as it relates to our Orphan Care Initiative?

For some, fostering children in the home will occur. For others (or perhaps the same people) adopting a child into their family is the next step.

Orphan Care is one of our "Big Three" here at First Baptist Church. It is more than a fad or a passing emphasis. Click here for more on this initiative and how we view it as a church. Whether adoption or foster care is God's desire for you, we believe it is God's calling for every Christ-follower to be an advocate.

Pray for these families as they seek God's lead for the next steps.

The Florida Baptist Children's Homes are wonderful partners in this ministry. On Mother's Day (May 12) we will be collecting a special offering for the Florida Baptist Children's Homes. Plan to give that day (or now, if you choose to give online) to this special offering. Click here to give online TODAY!

Killing Church Programs

I was looking at our church calendar for the year today. Even though we have tried to simplify and focus this year, the calendar is still full of "stuff." Some of this stuff is good. All if it is connected, at least loosely, to a ministry.

Yet, the majority of it is still just stuff.

Without strategic leadership and defined parameters, stuff happens. And. . .it appears on the calendar. 

It's a problem in  every church, especially churches that are multi-faceted and growing (or at least were growing in the past.) A full calendar of events and activities at the church may look like success, but many times these activities devolve into busy activities for the Christian community and do nothing to expand the Kingdom. In fact, they often do more to shrink the Kingdom of God (unintentionally.)

Programs and ministries are often seasonal. Unfortunately, many churches have great difficulty killing once useful programs. Apparently, we are one of those "many churches." 

As we work to simplify the ministry, grow disciples, give handles for service and engage the world for the sake of the Gospel, the reality is that some of our programming and calendar stuffers must die. 

You may be facing the same issues in your church. Most are.

Recently, church leaders from around the world spoke into the challenge of killing church programs that either detract from the primary mission of the church or have outlived their usefulness. Here are some of highlights from this online conference called "The Nines" sponsored by Leadership Network.

Eric Geiger - LIfeWay Christian Resources

• Once a church grows large in the number of programs, it is difficult to simplify.
• Things that matter most must not be at the mercy of those things which matter least.
• The mission determines the allotment of funds and resources.
• Redirect the energy of the leaders into the future.

Mark Driscoll - Pastor, Mars Hills Church, Seattle, WA

• A dysfunctional church can become individuals just pursuing their own agendas.
• Ministries, like trees, can have seasons of fruitfulness which run their course. Then, they must change or end.
• Sometimes ministries grow, but fruit is not produced. They become an end to themselves.
• Nostalgia is not a reason to keep a program around.

Scott Lehr - Pastor, Southbridge Fellowship, Raleigh, NC

• Weak leaders are more interested in success of numbers rather than depth of the sanctification process.
• Weak leaders struggle with killing programs because attendance equates to success to them.

Scott Hodge - Pastor, The Orchard Community, Aurora, IL

• Incremental growth is when a caterpillar becomes a bigger caterpillar.
• Transformational growth is when a caterpillar becomes a butterfly.
• Transformational growth is always accompanied by grief.

Will Mancini - Auxano, Visionroom.com, Houston, TX

• Persistent modification will course correct programs as they grow so they don't eventually date themselves.

Brian Bloye - Pastor, West Ridge Church, Dallas, GA

• Sometimes good things steal resources away from the great things of God.
• Sometimes programs are hard to kill because they're associated with persons of influence.
• Someone is always upset when you kill a program.
• Discipleship must be the end goal of every program.

Bruse Wesley - Pastor, Clear Creek Community, League City, TX

• Just because someone volunteers to lead does not mean the program is valid.
• The mission of the church must be served by each and every program.
• Programs can be "religious" without serving the mission.
• God has called you to be courageous in pruning.

Carey Nieuwhof - Pastor, Connexus Community, Barrie, ON

• Churches that don't change, die.
• Find the courage to make change, because so much is at stake.

Amy Hanson - Speaker, Omaha, NE

• Older adults are able to change because they are connected to the same Holy Spirit.
• Older adults are capable to learn new things. We need to motivate them.
• Do not devalue those in the second-half of life. Every part of the Body of Christ is valuable.
• Eliminate programs, not people.

Waiting On the World to Change

As the news unfolded Monday about the bombing in Boston, I could feel the collective fear and uncertainty grow. While not the scope of September 11, 2001, many were experiencing the same emotions on Monday afternoon and evening as they did on that fateful Tuesday twelve years ago.

There are many unanswered questions as the FBI and other law enforcement and Homeland Security work diligently to discover the individual or group responsibile. 

As more stories come out regarding deaths, injuries and personal stories, the emotional response grows. Fear. Anger. Frustration. Relief.

John Mayer sings "Waiting on the World to Change" and it's been the prayer (or hope) of many for years.

The reality is the world is not going change, at least not as most desire. We lived in a depraved, lost, "sin-sick-Satan-serving-society" (I remember that from youth camp - thanks David Burton.)

In this lost, uncertain, fearful world, there is One who is still in control, never surprised and is the change agent. 

The world will not change, or evolve, to be better on its own.

Yet, we have a hope. His name is Jesus Christ.

May the events of yesterday in Boston be a reminder that we all need a Savior. May we who know this Savior, be encouraged and motivated to make Him known.

Continue praying for those affected.

Serve as You're Shaped

041413_1045_Keep Calm 21

Every Christ follower has been gifted by the Holy Spirit for service. Many believers tend to rely on online testing and profiles to determine their spiritual gifts. While these are useful tools, I doubt the early church used such devices. So, how did they determine their giftedness?

As they served, their giftedness was revealed.

I have known many who tend to "discover their gifts" only to continue doing (or not doing) the exact same things within the Body. Since spiritual giftedness is a given for a Christ-follower, and the Holy Spirit comes upon a person at the moment of rescue (i.e. salvation, not at a later "second blessing" event) we know that God has gifted His people for a reason.

The reason? To glorify God through serving in and as the church.

As you serve, your giftedness is revealed.

It's unique.

It's how you're shaped for service.

(SHAPE - spiritual gifts, heart, abilities, personality & experiences)

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When Your God Is Too Small

It seems that some days go by swimmingly, with no worries whatsoever. Then, there are others where worry, concern, and fear arrive en force. These days of worry - we have begun to call them days of attack - can be debilitating. What's strange is that the fear often comes out of nowhere. 

Last fall, I shared with the church, and through this blog, the spiritual attacks my family was battling. Just because a teaching series ended did not mean the attacks ended. However, we have found solace in the battle through Scripture and believing the God who saves.

Yet. . .there are days.

Days when we forget.

Days when we think too hard.

Days when things just don't seem right.

Days when the lies and accusations scream loudly.

It is these days that it becomes very difficult to hear God.

"What? You're a pastor!"

Yeah. . .I know, but apparently I'm human, too.

Remembering that each day is a spiritual battle is challenging. Knowing the enemy does not rest is not a comforting thought. Battles manifest in the family - the place where taking out the people of God is most common.

Yet, I'm reminded in these days of doubt and fear, God has this.

He's not resting.

He is simply saying "Trust Me."

I do. Then. . .I often bulldoze forward in "fix it" mode. And. . .well, you know. I don't fix it.

Again He says, in the most creative ways, "Trust Me."

Do you realize how difficult it is to trust a God you cannot see? Do you know how hard it is to trust a God who seems to be going r-e-a-l-l-y slow? Can you relate to praying for rescue only to open your eyes and see nothing has changed?

Oh, you do? 

Yeah, you do. Apparently, many do.

Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer. Psalm 61:1 (ESV)

I cry aloud to God, aloud to God, and he will hear me. In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord; in the night my hand is stretched out without wearying; my soul refuses to be comforted. When I remember God, I moan; when I meditate, my spirit faints. Selah. Psalm 77:1-3 (ESV)

David cried out to God. This man, known as a "man after God's own heart," found himself in dire straits at numerous junctures. Some were placed upon him. Others were consequences of his own poor choices. Nevertheless, a man after God's own heart would definitely be in the cross-hairs of the Enemy. This is clear throughout Scripture. 

At times, David is crying out for rescue, for clarity, for help. 

Though the cries sound desperate, there is hope there. There is focus. God is God and does not need to prove Himself, yet the biblical account shows over and again that God is faithful. He is true. He loves His children and while from our perspective it may not always seem to be the case, His timing is impeccable. He is in control.

I confess, as J.B. Phillips said many years ago, that my "God is too small." He is not surprised by the attack. He is not surprised by my reaction. He is not surprised that I was taken by surprise. That's comforting in some strange way.

And, still at times, I worry.

I know, I know. Worry is a sin. It shows lack of trust. That's why I need these verses.

But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Matthew 6:30 (ESV)

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV)

The battle rages, but as the God's people in the Old Testament discovered, God fights these battles for us. Oh sure, we are to put our armor on, but we don't have to fight alone.

You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem.' Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, and the Lord will be with you." 2 Chronicles 20:17 (ESV)

In truth, He has already won.

Just trust Him.

 

 

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The Lasting Legacy of William Wilberforce

For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1(ESV) 

In the late 1700s, when William Wilberforce was a teenager, English traders raided the African coast on the Gulf of Guinea, captured between 35,000 and 50,000 Africans a year, shipped them across the Atlantic, and sold them into slavery. This was a very profitable business of the day. Many wealthy and powerful people became dependent upon the slave trade. One publicist for the West Indies trade wrote, “The impossibility of doing without slaves in the West Indies will always prevent this traffic from being dropped. The necessity, the absolute necessity, then, of carrying it on, must, since there is no other, be its excuse.”[i]

By the late 1700s, very few people thought that anything could be done about the issue of slavery and the slave trade. William Wilberforce was one of those people.

It seems odd that Wilberforce would become such a symbol of the abolition movement. He was a privileged young man with wealth and a great education. With his connections, he managed to be elected to the British Parliament in 1780. Though, by his own admission, he did little during his first years in office, he soon began to reflect on his life and humanity. He found himself in a miserable place emotionally and spiritually.

God began to work within him and William began to see his life’s purpose: “My walk is a public one,” he wrote in his diary. “My business is in the world, and I must mix in the assemblies of men or quit the post Providence seems to have assigned me.”[ii]

Two causes immediately caught his attention. First, he became absorbed with the issue of slavery. The second was what he called the “reformation of manners” which in our day would be a calling back to biblical morality.

His stand against slavery immediately brought conflict for him.

Initially, he was very optimistic. Perhaps naively so. The pathway to abolition was opposed on all fronts. Wilberforce brought resolutions to Parliament designed to abolish slavery and the slave trade and was shortly outmaneuvered on fine legal points. The battle he faced was fought with parliamentary filibustering, bigotry, international politics, slave unrest, personal sickness and political fear.

He brought bills in 1789, 1791, 1792, 1793, 1797, 1798, 1799, 1804, and 1805.

Wilberforce continued to fight the battle even while fighting grave personal illness. At time, due to his poor health, he would be bedridden for weeks.  He survived the illnesses using a new medication available at the time – opium. Little did he know, nor did doctors at the time, that this medication was a narcotic that would become addictive resulting in hallucinations and deep depression. Even his medication began to cripple him.

When healthy, Wilberforce was a persistent and effective politician. He fought for life, freedom and biblical truth. While others didn’t see a conflict in Scripture’s teachings and the slave trade, Wilberforce did. His persistent leadership eventually paid off.

In 1807, Parliament abolished the slave trade in the British Empire. Wilberforce then worked to ensure that slave trade laws were enforced and finally, that slavery was abolished throughout the British Empire. While his health prevented him from leading the final charge, on his deathbed, he heard just three days before taking his last breath that the final passage of the emancipation bill ensured.

Historian G.M. Trevelyan says that while others such as Thomas Clarkson worked tirelessly to abolish slavery, Wilberforce was a key leader in what became “one of the turning events in the history of the world.”

---

[i] "William Wilberforce | Christian History." William Wilberforce | Christian History. Christianity Today, 8 Aug. 2008. Web. 26 Oct. 2012. <http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/131christians/activists/wilberforce.html>.

[ii] “William Wilberforce”

Now What?

For the three weeks prior to Easter, we were challenged to invite friends, co-workers, neighbors, baristas, etc. to worship with us on Easter Sunday. The statistics we have found state that 8 out of 10 people invited to attend an Easter service will.

So, we invited.

And they came.

Sure, it was Easter and attendance is normally higher on this day (for just about all chruches in the west,) but this Easter was incredible.

Our 9:15am service doubled in attendance.

We were well over 85% full in the worship center for 10:45am. 

Now what?

Here's a novel idea - "Invite them again." Engage in real conversation with those you talked with prior (and others.) If they attended on Easter, you have a conversation starter built in - "Thanks for coming on Easter. What did you think?" Be ready for some honest responses.

While the statistics tell us that 8 out of 10 come on Easter if invited, the reality is that 5 out of 10 come on any other Sunday.

The personal invite is key.

There's no program, no pastor, no ministry, post card, Facebook advertisement, e-mail, etc. that is more effective than the personal invite.

So, invite again. And again.

It's a timeless principle. People inviting other people to worship and do life together. . .works. It's not about growing your small group or even growing the church. It's about making disciples.

Some things to remember. . .

• If you invite someone to worship with you, make sure you show up, too.
• Guests tend to arrive early. Make sure you're here to greet them. They'll be looking for you.
• Tell your friends where to meet you. Be clear. I would say the best place to meet a guest is in the front of the Worship Center. Even if you're worshipping in the Family Ministry Center or going to small group, the glass doors in front of the Worship Center are easiest to find and where most guests go first. So. . .meet them there, then take them (don't send them) to where you will be.
• Be clear with your friends regarding dress. Many think that they have to dress formally to come to church. If they come in the front glass doors and you're not there, they will meet our ushers first and most of them are in suits and ties. The reality is that about 1 percent of the men who attend our church wear suits and ties (most of them are serving as ushers at the time) and if your guest is not dressed in like manner, he may leave before meeting you. "Come just as you are" is more than a song, it's the truth. If your friend only has jeans and tennis shoes, tell him/her to wear them and then. . .and this will be a stretch for some of you. . .wear your jeans and tennis shoes, too. 
• Stay with your guest throughout the morning as best you can. If you sing in the choir, explain this to her. Help her find a seat and let her know that once you finish singing, you will join her in the congregation. Don't leave them unless they are comfortable and perhaps have met others they know. Being alone in a crowd is a frightening thing.
• Lunch after church is a good idea as well. Since most people eat, ask your friend to join you. The conversation over lunch is a great place to dissect the services and to perhaps discover if your friend has any questions. Even if you do not have the answers, listen and tell your friend you will discover the answers and get back with him/her. This leads to continued spiritual talk.
• Remember, you are the church so don't sound like a salesperson trying to sell a membership to a club. Focus on Christ. Be intentional.

 

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Spiritual Giftedness - Don't Be Uninformed

040713_1045_Keep Calm 20

Preaching three services on Sunday morning is interesting. The message is the same but the response is unique based upon the people in the congregation. Based on comments following yesterday's services, many are still wrestling with the truth of God's Word as revealed.

Per a request, I am putting the full transcript of yesterday's message on this post. The audio file attached is from the 10:45am service.

We are getting into a portion of 1 Corinthians today that often causes people to either perk up or become fearful. The Corinthian believers were new in their faith. They were working through some things to better understand what it meant to be a Christ-follower.

Some of you here today are in the same boat.

Your questions may not have to do with what we would consider doctrinal matters. You most likely did not wake up this morning wondering about the doctrine of man, the immutability of God, the triune presence of God or the different takes on millennialism that identifies end-times theology.

Most likely, you were considering things such as “What do I wear today?” or “Do I have time to get a doughnut before church.

We go with God’s Word and begin in 1 Corinthians 12 today. Paul’s letter is systematic in how it deals with questions, problems, corrections and focus.

Paul loves this church, even though they frustrate him with their actions at times. His love prompts this letter. The Spirit of God inspires him to write and that’s why 2000 years later, the relevance of this letter is solid. It’s more than a letter to a bunch of now dead Christ-followers in a foreign culture many centuries ago. It’s God message to you and me today.

God doesn’t want us to be ignorant nor uniformed.

So, he gives us answers. He spells it out.

Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. 1 Corinthians 12:1 (ESV)

We live in an age of information overload. We now have more data at our fingertips than any generation in the history of the world. In just a moment, if you could get cell coverage in here, you could Google any topic and have an answer immediately. It may or may not be true, even if on the internet it may not be true – seriously! But, you can have an answer.

Having an answer and being informed are two different things.

How many of you when in school studied for a test only to be able to remember the data or answers until the test time. Then, thirty minutes, or maybe thirty seconds after taking the test, you did what one of my seminary professors used to call a cognitive dump and pretty much forgot the data?

Paul writes so that we may be informed. So that we may have answers to real questions that matter. So that we may be able to take the data of the answer and use it in real life. So that we may not waste time on things that do not matter. So that we could live our lives in a way that glorifies the Father.

In this case – his topic is that of spiritual gifts.

When you talk of spiritual gifts in the church, immediately you have factions and groupings develop within the church. Some teach that a number of spiritual gifts as listed in Scripture are no longer available, others teach that all are available, but some are more important, then there are some that believe unless you have one specific gift, you’re not truly a Christian.

Then, there are the many who are Christ-followers, not sure what is meant by spiritual gifts and wonder if they have one, what it is and finally what to do with it. Some misidentify things as spiritual gifts and all the sudden everything is a spiritual gift.

It’s a conundrum.

So, as Paul says “I do not want you to be uninformed.”

There are classes, surveys, and intense studies on spiritual giftedness. I’m not going to get into that much detail today, but I am going to lay a foundation that covers the essentials of what is meant by the term and what the purpose is for these gifts.

To speak of spiritual gifts, we must speak of the Holy Spirit. I shared in the past that the doctrine of Trinity – the tri-une God who is One who is also Three is essential to the Christian faith. We have One God who is Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

The tendency is to try to comprehend this.

You cannot.

Your brain is not wired to fully comprehend it. Your brain has two lobes – a right and a left. Some of you are left-brain people. You’re more logical and analytical. You want a map. You want a list. You need bullet points.

Others are right-brain. You’re more artistic. You are creative. Intuitive. Thoughtful. Subjective.

In high school, my art teacher was always trying to get us into the “right brain” mode. We had just come from our math, history or science classes which were very left-brain and she had about an hour to “right brain” us. Often she’d tell stories, play some music and leave us to create. Great class.

Nevertheless, you have a two lobes in your brain by God’s design. Right brainers and left brainers are both good, created by God, but think of it this way – how can a two-lobe brain comprehend a triune God?

You can acknowledge it, but comprehend fully? No.

It’s a mystery and the reality is we do not like mysteries. . .at least mysteries that we cannot figure out.

It requires faith to understand.

God – One God! Three persons – Father, Son and Spirit.

Get it?

Me neither, but I believe it.

God sent His Son Jesus (Son of God, God the Son) to live and to die. He did. He came back to life. Jesus did nothing out of sorts or random. His entire life, everything he did and said and thought was focused on the task at hand – to glorify the Father. He did everything under the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Gospel of Luke is a great place to see this connection of the Trinity in action. Unfortunately, many times today when churches and believers speak of the spiritual gifts, they tend to land on the Holy Spirit so much they miss Jesus and seem to push him to the back burner. This is a huge mistake. You’ll notice in the Bible that the Holy Spirit always points to Christ and His story of life, death and resurrection.

When Jesus came back to life after the cross, he stayed around for a while and then made a promise to his followers, to us. He said he was leaving and when he left, the Comforter would come. This Comforter had already existed, for the Comforter is the Holy Spirit, (God’s spirit, the spirit of God) but his role would be preeminent in these days.

We need to remember that the Holy Spirit is a “he” not an “it.” He is God and God is Spirit.

The Holy Spirit gifts Christ-followers - every Christ-follower.

To define what spiritual gifts are it may be best to identify what they are not.

•  
  • Spiritual gifts are not personality traits
  • Spiritual gifts are not the same as natural talents. Leslie B. Flynn (a now deceased pastor and author) states it this way “Talents have to do with techniques and methods; gifts have to do with spiritual abilities. Talents depend on natural power, gifts on spiritual endowment.”
  • Spiritual gifts are not the same as the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control). The Fruit of the Spirit reveal Christ’s contribution to our character while our spiritual gifts reveal the contribution we make to God’s kingdom.

So, what is a spiritual gift?

Here’s a working definition by Pastor Erik Rees I think is pretty solid “A spiritual gift is a God-given special ability, given to every believer at conversion by the Holy Spirit, to share His love and strengthen the body of Christ.”

Os Guiness states it this way “The purpose of giftedness is stewardship and service, not selfishness.”

The first time we see spiritual gifts in the Bible--

For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you-- that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine. Romans 1:11-12 (ESV)

Paul uses the word “impart” and some may misconstrue that meaning. It is not that Paul is going to give them a spiritual gift, but that Paul will give them the benefits of his spiritual gifts.

According to this passage and others to believers in different cities, one of the purposes is to strengthen other believers. To strengthen someone by a spiritual gift means to help their faith not give way as easily when trouble enters their life.

We have spiritual gifts in order to help other people keep the faith and maintain an even keel in life's storms.

If there is anybody around you whose faith is being threatened in any way at all, take stock whether you may have a spiritual gift peculiarly suited to strengthen that person.

WATCH THIS VIDEO FROM MERCY HILL CHURCH, ONE OF THE CHURCH PLANTS WE SPONSOR IN GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA. WATCH IT WITH EYES TO SEE HOW GOD’S CHURCH USES ITS GIFTEDNESS TO SERVE THE COUPLE SHARING THEIR STORY.

redemption stories - nate and heather 1280x720 from Andrew Hopper on Vimeo.

Some wonder why we are so bent on small groups and expanding them throughout the community. This is why? This is a picture of Christ-followers living out their faith, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, utilizing the gifts He has given them for the sake of the fellowship, the encouragement of others, the salvation of others and the growth of the Kingdom.

We have stories here in our fellowship as well – maybe not on video yet, but they’re everywhere.

Often church folks want to know their spiritual gift so they can figure out what to do, or maybe get an excuse for what not to do in the area of service within the body.

We do believe that God has shaped every Christ follower and every Christ follower is given a gift – a spiritual gift at the point of new life. This gift wasn’t earned (it wouldn’t be a gift.)

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies--in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV)

Serve the fellowship through your giftedness so that GOD MAY BE GLORIFIED THROUGH JESUS CHRIST.

He is the point. This means that God's aim in giving us gifts, and in giving us the faith to exercise them, is that his glory might be displayed.

“He wants us and the world to marvel at him and to think he is fantastic. The stupendous reality of God is all encompassing.” – John Piper

YOUR RESPONSE:

• Come to Christ
• Acknowledge your giftedness
• Recognize the purpose of your gift
• Life is to lead others to marvel at his greatness
• Others first
• Selfless living

You Are God Alone!

I just made it home after this morning's worship gatherings. Wow! I'm still thinking about it. Amazed. Sometimes, I'll be honest, I don't expect God to do what He does. This is about redemption. It's about life change. It's about the church glorifying God. 

The song "You Are God Alone!" was sung at our 8am and 10:45am services. It was evident that God was moving through the words of this song, the Scripture and the stories (i.e. testimonies) shared today.

This song speaks to me deeply. Maybe you need a reminder, too.

 

Leadership Is Overglorified

If you want to write a book that sells, either position it as a "self-help" book or one on "leadership." Other than teen fiction about vampires, these two genres consistently sell well.

In pastoral circles, there are constant talks about leadership and team building.

Derek Sivers, entrepreneur, blogger and regular speaker at TED shared this back in 2010. His title was "How to Start a Movement." The full transcript of this talk is available here.

Here are some of the highlights:

• A leader needs the guts to stand alone and look ridiculous.
• The first follower transforms a lone nut into a leader.
• A movement must be public.
• Leadership is over-glorified.
• There is no movement without the first follower.
• We're told we all need to be leaders, but that would be really ineffective.
• The best way to make a movement, if you really care, is to courageously follow and show others how to follow.

Watch the talk below:

 

The Dirty Steeple

In case you haven't noticed, the steeple on our church is filthy. If you haven't noticed, you will now. You're welcome.

Some facts about the steeple:

• I remember in 1994 when the truck arrived with the steeple on the back. It was quite the spectacle. People came to the church parking lot to take pictures of a giant steeple on the back of a truck. Seriously! Apparently, the excitement level of people's lives in Orange Park back in 1994 was at an all time low.
• The steeple is mostly fiberglass.
• It does not house a church bell, though that would be great. Then, people who have no idea where our church building is could at least hear an annoying bell each morning.
• The steeple has never really fit well on the top of our Worship Center. Apparently, it's a design flaw. (That's why we have leaks when a big rain hits.)
• It's a ridiculously challenging effort to clean. It's been cleaned once since 1994. At that time a guy with a rope climbed upon the Worship Center with a pressure washer and sprayed the mildew off.
• The steeple serves no practical purpose.

Apparently, our dirty steeple concerns people in our community. We had one gentleman come by the church office a few months ago to complain about the dirty steeple. He is not a member, nor an attender here, but he was irate. I'm not sure he attends church anywhere. If so, pray for that church.

Nevertheless, he ranted for a while and then threatened to call the governor. Hmmm, I'm no political pundit, but I'm pretty sure Governor Scott has other things to worry about other than a dirty steeple on a Baptist church building in Orange Park.

We then had a phone call from a private pilot who ventured over our building. He wanted to let us know that from above the steeple was dirty. Uh. . .thanks, I guess.

So, this leads to the big question, "Why don't we get that steeple cleaned?"

We will, but first we have to find someone crazy enough to climb on top of that roof with a pressure washer. Then, we need to secure the funds for the cleaning.

I've tried to convince the Orange Park Fire Department to bring their ladder truck over on a "training excercise" to see if they could clean it. Apparently, that's not allowed. If they did that, then every church in the town limits would be calling them over for steeple cleaning.

The cleaning will happen. . .eventually. Hopefully, this year.

Is this a Kingdom issue? I don't think so, but apparently, there are quite a few people talking about it, perhaps even the governor, so I thought I'd better address it.

Now for something totally different:

• Easter services here and at the sunrise event at Moosehaven were incredible.
• Thanks to Shelvin Lamb and the worship leaders for serving at the sunrise service, 8am and 10:45am.
• Thanks to Jordan O'Brien and the 9|15 Band for leading us in worship at 9:15am. 
• Thanks to all our preschool & children's small group leaders. You folks are wonderful!
• Thanks to our parking crew (we need more on this team, so let us know if you're willing) for helping ensure everyone had a place to park and could get to the buildings easily.
• Thanks Von Swiger for making sure our 9|15 baptistery was full and warm. 
• Attendance was an all-time high - counting the crowd at Moosehaven, we had over 1,900 in attendance (630+ at Moosehaven, 160+ at 8am, 285+ at 9:15am, 900+ at 10:45am.)
• We are already working on next year's services. We're considering adding a Saturday evening service - contemporary style featuring the 9|15 Band, additional signage, greeters and asking regular 10:45am attenders to move to 8am to provide room for more guests.

 

 

 

He's Still Alive!

033113_1045_EASTER

Yesterday was Resurrection Sunday, or Easter as most people know it. Like most churches in the west, the services are more crowded that normal, families gather together, children hunt eggs and eat chocolate and wear new clothes. . .and then everyone takes a long nap in the afternoon.

It's a tradition.

We had four services yesterday - one was the community-wide Sunrise service at Moosehaven (largest attendance in their history with over 630.) The other three were at our church campus. Just as anticipated, the attendance was up. The energy and excitement in our 9:15am service was contagious as we had to find more chairs. While the worship team is leading the congregation in singing, a group of our men are carrying chairs through the room to add to the back. It was a good problem to have, and apparently proof that I didn't really have enough faith that people would come.

In the midst of the fun, family time and incredible worship experiences, the reality that many still do not fully understand the deeper meaning of the day becomes clear.

Easter is a day of celebration, not of bunnies or eggs or other fertility items, but of the risen Lord. Jesus Christ (the Son of God, God the Son, second person of the Trinity) really died and on that first "Easter" came back to life.

His resurrection gives us a chance at life.

If you can, take the time to listen to yesterday's sermon audio linked above.

Remember, even on the day after Easter. . . He is still alive!

You can be, too!

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Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

The Paschal greeting has been used by various Christian groups for centuries on Easter morning. Rather than saying "hello," one greets another believer with "Christ is Risen!" The response is "He is Risen Indeed!"

For my brothers and sisters celebrating throughout the world:

ICELANDIC: Kristur er upprisinn! Hann er sannarlega upprisinn!

FRENCH: Christ est ressuscité! Il est vraiment ressuscité!

SPANISH: ¡Cristo ha resucitado! ¡En verdad ha resucitado!

OLD IRISH: Asréracht Críst! Asréracht Hé-som co dearb!

IRISH: Tá Críost éirithe! Go deimhin, tá sé éirithe!

MANX: Taw Creest Ereen! Taw Shay Ereen Guhdyne!

SCOTTISH: Tha Crìosd air èiridh! Gu dearbh, tha e air èiridh!

BRETON: Dassoret eo Krist! E wirionez dassoret eo!

CORNISH: Thew Creest dassorez! En weer thewa dassorez!

WELSH: Atgyfododd Crist! Yn wir atgyfododd!

HAWAIIAN: Ua ala aʻe nei ʻo Kristo! Ua ala ʻiʻo nō ʻo Ia!

KOREAN: 그리스도께서 부활하셨네! 참으로 부활하셨네!

HEBREW: המשיח קם! באמת קם!

MANDARIN: 基督復活了 他確實復活了

KLINGON: Hu'ta' QISt! Hu'bejta'!

 

Waking Up in a World Without Jesus

I've been thinking about today - in the liturgical world, it's called "Holy Saturday." Simply put, it is the day wedged between "Good Friday" and "Resurrection Day" (or Easter.) Many Catholic churches go quiet on this day. Following the mass on Maundy Thursday, the chancel is totally bare with the administration of the sacraments being very limited.

The American Episcopal church and other Anglican churches often have a solemn reading of the Liturgy of the Word.

Other churches hold simple gatherings as a close to Holy Week.

Many evangelical churches do nothing official. Some, due to expanded crowds and in attempts to reach more in the community will add additional Easter services on Saturday evening.

I'm not saying any of these things are necessarily bad. In fact, what churches do with this day is really not the point of this posting.

As I sit here this morning, reading my Bible, drinking my coffee and thinking about the day, a question crosses my mind, "What was it like to wake up in in a world without Jesus?" That is what the group of disciples and followers of Christ were experiencing in Jerusalem almost two-thousand years ago.

Hindsight is 20/20 and we know that as we celebrate Easter tomorrow, Jesus was rising again. For the disciples in Jerusalem, the resurrection was less that 24 hours away and would become the greatest celebration in Christendom for centuries to come.

But, for them. . .it's still Saturday.

While we know what was to come, the disciples who huddled together in hiding do not. Oh, they were told by Jesus that he would rise again, but it wasn't until after the fact those parables and direct statements were fully understood.

So, on this day, almost two-thousand years ago a group of frightened followers of Christ, men and women who had walked away from their jobs, families, religious legalism, and comfort zones gathered in a quiet room, feeling hopeless.

Jesus was dead. He was crucified yesterday. They saw (well, those who didn't run away) his body, beaten, bruised and bloody, hanging from the Roman cross over a garbage dump in an area known as "the Skull." Some were there when his lifeless body was removed and placed in the borrowed tomb of a wealthy disciple from Arimathea.

Now what?

The previous three years of their lives were running through their minds like a movie on rewind. Some were wondering if they could get their previous jobs back. Would they be able to go back home?

Good Friday may have been the darkest day in the history of the world, but I wonder what the disciples gathered together on Saturday would say? I'm just speculating, but I would say that some, if not all may affirm that after the crucifixion was almost unbearable - perhaps even worse?

They woke up (in their understanding) in a world without Jesus.

I'll be speaking on this subject tomorrow morning. I fear that by choice, too many people are living their lives today like it's the Saturday before Easter.

Just remember, we have an advantage over those disciples in hiding. We have turned the page and we see what the next day holds.

From the lowest of lows to the highest of highs in less that 24 hours. The next day is the day where it all becomes clear. Death was defeated. Jesus lives.

You just have to get through Saturday.

Remember. . .Sunday's coming!

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