David Tarkington

Memorial Day - The Cost of Freedom

Remember. . .freedom is never free.

Making the Shift from Church-Focused to Kingdom-Focused

I readily admit that I really never have original ideas. I claim Ecclesiastes 1:9 for this reality.

Last week I was at a gathering of church planters and pastors of churches that are raising up church planters. The keynote speaker and leader of Vision 360 (and Pastor of NorthWood Church in Keller, Texas) Bob Roberts, Jr. shared about the necessity of moving away from the western "church-focused" model to the biblical "Kingdom-focused model." 

Though this is not a new concept, it was so refreshing to see it laid out in such an understandable way. It is exciting to be able to see or hear something and sit back and go "Wow! That's exactly what I've been thinking, but wasn't able to clarify in my mind." God does this. He uses the Word, situations and others to speak (and pretty much anything else He chooses. He is God, you know.)

So, what does this mean?

What's the big deal about shifting from being Church-Focused to being Kingdom-Focused?

The big deal is that remaining in a Church-Focused framework means death and missing what the Gospel leads us to do and be.

The problem is that I grew up in a Church-Based model. I was trained in this framework. That's what I learned in church, at seminary and in ministry meetings. We work and work at doing church better under this framework only to continue to see the Great Commission go unfulfilled.

I'll break down more of this in later posts, but let's start here. 

The Church-Based Framework . . .

Now, at first glance you may not find any problems with this framework. It has a number of church terms listed: disciple, gospel, etc. However, look closely and you'll discover that the Church is the center and the primary functions lead to growing the church (the organization, not the body and therefore, not the people.) 

This is a radical shift for me and maybe you as well. Of course we're supposed to make disciples, but all too often that looks like nothing more than a membership drive and increased participation in a program. Here's a newsflash - just because people show up at church does not mean they are disciples.

The membership strategy and participation numbers lead this framework and then an interesting view of the gospel comes. This view is all about self, rather than about God. It's about personal salvation and personal atonement for one's sins. I know, I know, you're saying "What's wrong with that?" Well, nothing except for the exclusion of God. Unfortunately, this is how Christianity has been sold, especially in the west. It's about "praying a prayer" rather than about the Lordship of Christ.

Of course, the desire is for personal salvation and Christ's death does atone for one's sins. The issue is the focus. The focus is not about "me" or "us" but Him.

In the church framework the society is basically ignored. This leads to isolationist Christianity. It's evidenced in a "hiding place" church and ministry that is designed to keep us safe from the evils of the world. It results in "Christian" versions of every societal domain and further removes us from being "in the world" while using the excuse of not being "of the world."

The church, therefore becomes the building and an institution. Regardless how many times we say that "the church is the people not a building" our culture is built on this framework, so it is difficult to really live otherwise.

So, that being said, what does the Kingdom-Focused framwork look like?

The Kingdom-Focused Framework. . .

It may seem subtle, but the differences are huge. In other words. . .THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING.

The Kingdom-focused Church begins with the Gospel. It's the gospel of the Kingdom of God and focuses on His sovereignty and kingship.

This leads to disciple-making. The Great Commission is a Kingdom-focused command. We are to make disciples. Disciples are those who hear and obey. They live under the lordship of the King. (

Society is not something to be disengaged from, but something to engage. Domains are engaged. Loving one's neighbor becomes real. We then do not love people for the sake of seeing them become Christians, but just because we love them. Yes, we want them to come to Christ, but love must be unconditional.

The church is then defined and living out as the "ecclesia" - the called out ones. The church is the people and we are the ambassadors of the King in this world. We represent Him.

What does this mean?

It means a shift must happen. Language must change. Motivation must adjust. It's about the Kingdom, not about "our" church.

The Church Modeling Stewardship & Generosity (or "Why We're Giving Away $36,000?")

Churches and pastors are good at promoting the message that people should tithe and give generously, cut up credit cards, eliminate debt and save accordingly. The only problem is that while the message is true and right, often the church doesn't actually model that very well.

That's why I am so excited to share once again that the financial leadership team of the church (made up of laypersons) continues to lead us to a place where ministry continues to be done and missions is supported, at increased levels, while saving, giving and eliminating debt is being modeled.

As the church models this as a whole, it is much easier for me and you to see how it should be done in our individual lives.

So, here we are once again. A surplus of funds from regular tithes and offerings from the past six months allows us to worship God through our actions. Like I said Sunday, talk is cheap. This is more than just talk.

We shared at our quarterly meeting last Sunday evening the details, but let me explain them here.

A net "income" has accumulated over the past six months. This was carried over from 2011 and now we are at a place to distribute funds accordingly.

The total amount to distribute is $143,504. From this, per the distribution scale developed last year, the following is happening now:

1. We are "paying" our accrual accounts a total of $23,673 to bring us up to where we should be as of 3/31/2012. The accrual accounts are new and designed to provide funds for replacement and upkeep of high cost items (i.e. A/C units, roofs, transportation).

2. This leaves us with $119,831. Of this, the distribution is as follows:

   1. 40% for capital improvements and/or debt reduction. The total amount is $47,933. Of this, $16,016 was spent in January for the purchase of our needed new sound system in the Worship Center. That amount will be applied to the Music Ministry Budget to put it back in order for the remaining ministry needs for the year. The remaining $31,917 is available for capital improvements and/or debt reduction. Most likely this amount will go towards new signage around campus and the stage rebuild in the Worship Center. These things will take place over time this year since they will cost more than $31,917 and we will not spend money we do not have.

   2. 30% will go in our Emergency/Opportunity Fund. The total is $35,949. This fund is being filled to provide us "rainy day" funds. These are for real emergencies such as fire, hurricane, etc. that may cause us to close for a number of weeks.

   3. 30% of the funds will be given away to Gospel-centered ministries. This is our church being generous and aiding in the spread of the Gospel throughout the world. The total amount is $35,949 (however, we have been told by one individual that they will give $51 to make it a nice round $36,000.) Here's who we are blessing this month:

      • $5,000 to Mercy Hill Church in Greensboro, North Carolina and church planter Andrew Hopper.

      • $5,000 to Caleb Crider, church planter in Portland, Oregon.

      • $5,000 to Sean Benesh, church planter in Portland, Oregon.

      • $5,000 to Matt Jolley, church planter in Portland, Oregon.

      • $5,000 to Anthony Harris, church planter in Vancouver, Washington.

      • $5,000 Clay Holcomb, church planter and pastor of Trinity Church in Happy Valley, Oregon.

      • $3,000 to the Clay County First Coast Women's Services.

      • $3,000 to Living Water International to provide clean water and the message of life through Jesus Christ in Guatemala.

It's an exciting time to be at First Baptist. I've never experienced anything like this. I pray that we remain faithful and focused and continue in this story.

When you see these numbers, in addition to what we were able to do last fall, it's astounding. Also, this is in addition to what we do regularly through our giving to the Cooperative Program, Associational Missions, the Orange Park Clothes Closet, the Florida Baptist Children's Homes, the benevolent gifts distributed regularly through our Deacons, and more. 

Some may not fully understand why we do this, especially the giving away of funds to ministries not in our own backyard and not seemingly benefiting us locally. It's the Acts 1:8 model. We aren't forgetting or ignoring the local mission. We are just living obediently to reach "Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and the uttermost parts of the world" at the same time.

Whether we all get it or not, I truly believe God is smiling on us.

We are blessing ministries that focus on women and children, orphans, the least of these, and church planters and missionaries. Sounds very biblical, doesn't it?

As we model what godly stewardship looks like, I pray that we (me included) will begin to make the changes necessary to get our own houses in order. Let's get out from under the debt that keeps us in bondage. Let's live unselfishly and generously.

Oh, by the way, for information on personal stewardship as well as helpful resources for you and your family, go to this page on our website (it's more than just the portal to online giving.)  - http://www.fbc-orangepark.org/giveonline.html.

God is Always Changing

OK, so God isn't changing. He's the same yesterday, today and tomorrow and for eternity. Yet, he is always changing. He's continually changing us, his children. When we became Christ-followers and surrendered to his call, we were immediately and forever transformed. We went from death and now have life. However, even now, as living children of God, we are still in a state of change. He is continually renewing and transforming and changing us into his likeness.

He's doing this to the church as well. (Well, that's redundant since we are the church, but you understand, right?)

We are constantly in a state of flux. That means things are always changing. As much as we'd like to hold on and stay the same, it's just not possible. This is true for individuals, families, communities and churches alike.

For years, we have heard the frustration of church-goers and Christ-followers about change. We've often talked about how much churches hate change. I guess it's true. Most of us resist change, yet it's continually happening.

Sometimes the change is immediate. At other times it's subtle.

Sometimes the change is damaging. At others it's healthy and needed.

Some things never change (i.e. the Gospel).

Some things need to change.

I have noticed that while I say I don't like change too much, the reality is that I love it. In fact, I thrive on it. Maybe I'm a little ADD and get bored too easily. Just look at our church's website. I design and maintain it and it has changed completely about twelve times in the past eight years. I'm not saying that's good, it's just been a good reminder to me about my need for newness.

God has wired me this way. I get  bored easily. I like to see new things. I love old things. I really love old things made new.

What I don't like is change just for the sake of change. There must be a bigger story and a good reason for change. Otherwise, it's a waste of time. You know, kind of like rearranging the chairs on the deck of the Titanic (that was my required 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic reference.)

So, here's what God is saying to me through His Word, prayers and the voices of others who are godly and have their finger on the pulse of this culture while standing solidly on the Gospel.

The way we have done church must change. 

That's a pretty bold statement and pretty open ended. It also opens me up for some pretty severe criticism from those who believe we need to go back to a previous age rather than move forward.

In truth, we are being called away from "doing" church to living out what it means to "be the church."

I'm not sure what all this entails, but I do know this. The way I was trained, and most other pastors my age and older, to do church, build staff, create ministries and "grow" a church may not only be wrong, it may be unbiblical.

I'm still working through this, so give me some time before you blast me. There's a good chance God will reveal that I misheard him as well.

Nonetheless, I believe we are moving to an age where the traditional pastors or ministers serving an age group or function will be redefined. Oh, we'll still be serving and leading children, students, single adults, married adults and focus on the function of education, music and administration, but the truth of the matter is that God is blurring the lines between heretofore "defined" pastoral roles.

No longer will the church claim to be culturally relevant and biblically solid just by gathering together in large rooms and stating so. We've talked for decades. James' words of faith and works are getting louder, all the while reminding us that works and good deeds do not save.

Years ago churches lauded the fact they were "mission-minded." That, my friends, is not enough. All around our nation and throughout our denomination we have "mission-minded" churches who give a love offering every Christmas and Easter and maybe do a missions study on Wednesday evenings (or Sunday evenings for those few churches still holding the flag for Sunday night services). I fear that these people will stand before God one day and say "But we were mission-minded," and God will say "Where in my commission did I say to think about being on mission?" 

What does this mean for our fellowship? Well, it's the next step in a journey that we have obviously been on for years. However, don't think that just because we send people on short-term mission trips every year we have arrived. I truly believe that each of us are to be on mission and missional in our own communities as well as supportive (and I mean really supportive) of our missionaries on the field. In addition to that, I believe God is going to call out an individual or family in our church (BTW - He's already at work in this area) that we as a church will send to the field. Yes, in addition to our Cooperative Program giving, which continues to increase, our Associational Missions giving, which also is increasing, God is moving us into a part of the story we have never been as a church. We will continue to support our IMB and NAMB missionaries, but we will also have FBCOP missionaries. 

The change is happening. It's exciting. It's Gospel driven. It's not about being a good church. It's about being an obedient family. What will it all look like? I have no idea, but it's becoming clearer every day.

Oh, here's the warning. We can resist the change. Other groups have. You may have seen them around. They're the ones in buildings they cannot afford, looking to close down or sell out. Others own their buildings, so that's not an issue, but there is no life within. They gather regularly, listen to sermons and studies they have heard for  years. They say "Amen" and then go home. They are inwardly focused and satisfied. They will remain for a few more decades until the last of the members pass away or move away. They will pay their bills regularly until the Social Security checks are no longer enough to keep the doors open. It sounds harsh, right? You know it's true, though. It's the lukewarm Christianity and churches that we read about in Revelation. 

Let's not slide into that trap.

Change is normal.

What's Next After "Four Zero"?

We have been systematically working through the last seven statements of Jesus on the cross. Through the ministry and resources provided by Worktalk and Geoff Shattock, we have been challenged and blessed to see how the final six hours of work Jesus did on the cross have become a template for us today. It is a model for how we are to "carry our crosses" daily into the workforce and world we live in, all for the glory of God.

But, what's next?

Many times when churches and Christ-followers embark on forty day studies, there is a sense of completion on Day 41. This is not all bad, in that it is good to complete a task. However, if what is learned is shelved on day 41, it truth is we miss the point of the journey.

In truth, FOUR ZERO is a beginning of a life-long journey. It is not just a program or a book to be completed. It is about living for Christ daily.

So, with that in mind, Geoff has put together this short video message of encouragement and challenge for us.

Also, be sure to check out www.worktalk.gs for more details.

Note that we still have Daily Guides available. Though our church-wide journey has come to an end, the forty day strategy can begin again, or for some the first time, at at any time. Perhaps you have some co-workers who would like to join you on a journey of the cross? Daily Guides are $10 each and available in the church office.

What the Church Can Learn From Steve Jobs

Some of you will find it difficult to admit that church leaders can learn from a man like Steve Jobs. In fact, just the title of this post is making some of you angry. I'm sure some are looking up verses of Scripture even now that affirm why I should never even attempt to make the claim this title boasts. 

As many of you know, from reading his biography and other reports, Steve Jobs was not a supporter or believer in the Christian church. He was a seeker who abandoned the teachings of the Bible when his Sunday School teacher could not answer a question regarding the suffering in the world. He engaged in the liberal lifestyle and drug culture of Reed College. He became a dabbler and follower of New Age mysticism and his eccentricities of the "all fruit diet" and not bathing for many days as a young entrepreneur are well known.

Even though he was known as a demanding boss and very difficult to work with, his entrepreneurial spirit and leadership at Apple Computers has become iconic. 

I was watching a video presentation by Guy Kawasaki today. Kawasaki worked for Apple during the 1980s and then again in the mid-1990s first as the Software Evangelist and later as the Chief Evangelist. (Nice titles, huh?) He claims to be one of the few people to have been able to work with Jobs twice and survive. He is now an author and speaker and developer of numerous websites. One of my go-to sites is Kawasaki's www.alltop.com. Kawasaki speaks globally in different settings. He has spoken to leaders in the corporate and education world as well as at Catalyst to church leaders. Kawasaki's faith is evident and his ability to keep his finger on the pulse of culture is helpful for the church.

It's obvious that he has much respect for Jobs. When Jobs died last year, Kawasaki developed a list of "12 Things I Have Learned from Steve Jobs." I watched his presentation of this at TEDx at the Harker School in San Jose.

While watching this presentation, even though focused on the tech industry and business, I discovered some things that can be helpful for church leaders.

Here are the 12 things. . .

1. "Experts" are clueless. That's a pretty harsh statement, but it's based on the fact that in industry, there are those who with past experience and age are elevated to the position of expert. Just because there is much wisdom in experience, there are times when the "experts" miss the point. He uses examples of Thomas Watson of IBM who declared in 1943 his view that the world would have a demand for a maximum of five computers. He also references Western Union's internal memo that declared the new device known as the telephone to be a loser and therefore not worth investing into. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE CHURCH: This is a stretch, but throughout church history, and especially in the past century or so, there have been some who have declared their "prophecies" of the future of the global church. Some have been dramatically proven incorrect. Sometimes it's a holding onto the past that leads to this, but mostly, it's a lack of discerning the Spirit's lead. There are far too few "men of Issachar" today who truly understand the times. However, there are some "experts" who seem to have their finger on the pulse of culture and without forsaking any of the message of the Gospel have been instrumental in leading the church to reach postmoderns and others to come. Lesson learned - just because someone has written a book and self-declared their "expertise" does not mean they are right. Trust the Spirit and the modern-day "men of Issachar."
2. Customers cannot tell you what they need. Kawasaki states that "Apple market research" was nothing more than the right side of Jobs' brain. Jobs made it clear that if you asked the customer what they wanted, the answer would be simply "better, faster and cheaper." The customer would only ask for better "sameness," not revolutionary change. Customers can only describe their desires in terms what they are already using. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE CHURCH: People know they have needs, but they don't always know what those needs are. Even good Christian people in the church. Often the perceived need is a better choir, an organ (seriously!), better ministry options for the kids, a more comfortable gathering place, a new pastor, etc. What people need is revolutionary change. This is deeper than church talk. This is referencing the transformational change that only comes from the Spirit of God. So, go ahead and do that "church member survey" but you will not discover what is truly needed. You'll likely see things that have absolutely nothing to do with the Gospel and tranformed lives. You will see things that hearken back to the "good ole days" or a ministry model perfect for the 1950s (or 1990s - by the way, even the 1990s are outdated now.)
3. Jump to the next curve. Big wins happen when you go beyond better sameness. Watch the attached video for a great illustration regarding ice (from harvesters to ice houses to refrigerators.) WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE CHURCH: I'm reminded of Reggie McNeal's book The Present Future. One of the statements in this book was that the church is answering the questions correctly. It's just that we're answering the wrong questions. It's time for a jump. We do not need "better sameness" but revolutionary change. The world is shrinking. The church must not run from the technology that enables us to communicate globally or support financially missionaries with the click of a button. It may seem honorable to discount the internet and hold tightly to that leather-bound King James Version Bible. I just wonder what we'll say when God asks why we didn't use the things He gave us fully so that more could know Him?
4. The biggest challenges beget the best work. The biggest challengers of Apple, this little startup company with a new type of device called the personal computer were giants known as IBM and then later Microsoft. The challenges were great and many other companies came and went in the 1980s and 1990s. Apple saw the challenges as a chance to be better. (This is very hard for me to admit, since I used to work and love IBM, but it's true.) WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE CHURCH: Well, there are the David and Goliath elements here, but when thinking about the local church, it's a good reminder that the Enemy and the world are against the Gospel. Some cower to this. Some resort to creating "holy huddles" that protest everything. These churches become known, not for the transformational love and grace of Jesus Christ, but for the fact (or at least the appearance) that they are against everything. Some churches worry about the future, forgetting that this is a sin. The odds may be against the local church, but the victory is secure. This must be remembered. Any church that loses this focus becomes little more than a club. 
5. Design counts. Kawasaki states that Jobs drove people nuts with his Type A design demands. He stated that "some shades of black weren't black enough" and other detail things that most would say "What's the big deal?" Jobs was a perfectionist. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE CHURCH: The church must remember that the work we do is not for ourselves, but for God. He is the focus. He is the audience. Therefore, why would we offer anything less than our very best? Some churches just offer crumbs at the altar. God deserves the entire meal. The little things matter. Just thinking practically, since our God is perfect and holy, we should care for all that He has blessed us with so that those who do not yet know Him are not distracted by incomplete stories, poor planned events and left-overs. Details matter. It's not about becoming obsessive. It's about offering the best.
6. You can't go wrong with big graphics and big fonts. For Apple, this was made clear during Jobs' regular presentations at Macworld and other gatherings. He would stand in front of a huge screen, usually with one large graphic image and few words presented. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE CHURCH: Fix your PowerPoint (or MediaShout, or other presentation programs for worship). Find some 16 year old that understands that clear and simple is best. Oh yeah, clean up the website while you're at it. No one wants to read paragraph after paragraph on your site (and, therefore, probably not on this blog either.)
7. Changing your mind is a sign of intelligence. Apple did a 180 on it's announcements about app development for the iPhone and iPad between 2007 and 2008. It was the right shift. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE CHURCH: Times change. Programs change. Communities change. Churches change. What doesn't change? The Gospel. The Message. Don't say "We're doing this program until Jesus comes" from the pulpit. I've heard that said. Guess what? We stopped doing the program in two years. Why? Because it was time to change. There was a shelf-life for the program. It had served it's purpose. Oh yeah, sometimes you change because you realize you were wrong. God's never wrong, but we do not always listen well.
8. "Value" is different from "price." Apple products have never been the cheapest on the market. Why then does market share increase? Because the products are quality and have value. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE CHURCH: Ministry is not easy. It will cost. It will cost time. It will cost money. It will cost friendships sometimes. It will cost some relationships (Luke 14:26). However, all of these are worth it. The Gospel is worth it. There is value in the Gospel. It is not cheap. Christ's sacrifice was not cheap.
9. A players hire A+ players. Jobs would say that A players should hire A players, but Kawasaki one-ups him here. If a leader only hires players who are not as gifted and effective as oneself, the organization suffers. If A players hire B players, then B players will hire C players, C players will hire D players, etc. What happens when you get to Z? WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE CHURCH: Staff well. Too often pastors and ministers are "hired" for reasons other than the call of God and the excellence of the ministry needed. Poor hires lead to weak ministries which lead to frustrated leadership teams and disgruntled church members. 
10. Real CEOs demo. Jobs always showed how to use the products on stage at the trade shows. He didn't have someone else do it for him, when he was able. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE CHURCH: Pastors must live out what they preach. Delegation is great, but many pastors do not fully understand what it is. Delegated leadership is not telling others on the staff or in the congregation to do something the pastor would not do. I have seen this and it's poor leadership. Pastors cannot tell others to share Christ if they do not model it first. Real pastors demo.
11. Real CEOs ship. Sometimes the product wasn't fully complete, but Jobs would ship it anyway. It was always ready, but in most cases not fully developed. That's why there continue to be new iterations of Apple devices. Do you know anyone who still has the original iPod? You know, the bulkier white one with the monochrome screen? It was good. It was ready, but not fully developed. That's why there are newer versions of these devices and others released each year. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE CHURCH: If you wait until everyone in your church has been trained in evangelism before you begin to share your faith, you will close your doors soon. If you wait until everyone is fully engaged missionally, you will miss the moment God has given you now. Understand the challenge. Prepare and continually refine, but "ship." Don't remain in the church building. The Great Commission is about action. Real pastors lead their churches to engage. . .to "ship." Refine and release new editions (new believers) as you go and grow, but go and grow!
12. Marketing boils down to providing unique value. Items need to be unique (not refined sameness) and valuable to impact the market. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE CHURCH: Our message is the most valuable one in the history of the world. It's a message of hope and life. It's the Gospel. It is never changing and cemented in Jesus Christ. The method for delivering the message. . .well, that's ever-changing. The challenge for the church is to follow God's lead into newer methods of delivering the never changing message. If the church does not embrace this, we are doomed to replicate what the church of Europe is now experiencing  - closed buildings, fewer believers and a culturally dying faith. (Oh, by the way, it's not hopeless even in Europe. I believe God is going to do a mighty work among the atheistic post-Christian culture there. It's never happened in the history of the world, but then again, our God has mastered the impossible.)

BONUS: Some things need to be believed to be seen. Here's Kawasaki's quote: "When you are jumping curves, defying/ignoring the experts, facing off against big challenges, obsessing about design, and focusing on unique value, you will need to convince people to believe in what you are doing in order to see your efforts come to fruition. People needed to believe in Macintosh to see it become real. Ditto for iPod, iPhone, and iPad. Not everyone will believe—that’s okay. But the starting point of changing the world is changing a few minds. This is the greatest lesson of all that I learned from Steve. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE CHURCH: I love this parallel. Faith is believing what we cannot see (Hebrews 11:1). A visionary pastor must believe that which God has revealed. There's no room for "Show Me" faith.

I recommend you follow Guy on Twitter at @GuyKawasaki 

Read more: http://blog.guykawasaki.com/2011/10/what-i-learned-from-steve-jobs.html#ixzz1qjfQtCkB

Rebranding Doesn't Always Work - Why "Great Commission Baptists" May Send The Wrong Message

First of all, I'm not against rebranding. In fact, I'm not against the new informal descriptor "Great Commission Baptists" for Southern Baptist Churches to use. If you're not aware of the proposal by the special task force to be presented at the Southern Baptist Convention this summer, you can read more about it here.

 

However, I do believe it is important when rebranding, especially in this age of acronyms and abbreviations, to explore all possible "other" messages a new name or logo may accidentally reference.

 

While I do not believe the task force could have seen this coming, it's now here. It's obvious to me. It's troubling and looks to be a punchline for comedians for a while. The brand "Great Commission Baptists" is inevitably going to be shortened to "GCB." 

In case you haven't noticed, the new ABC television comedy-drama titled "GCB" has recently begun airing. I kept seeing the advertisements for it and could not figure out what "GCB" stood for. Then, I read an article about the show. Apparently, it's based on a book titled "Good Christian B------" or "Good Christian Witches" with a replaced letter if you cannot figure out my cryptic blanks. The producers changed the name to "Good Christian Belles" but that didn't go over well either apparently, so now it's just "GCB." 

Hmmmm.

The show is being marketed as similar to "Desperate Housewives," but set in Texas and features "good" church-going women who fight with each other, embarrass each other, gossip and cheat, etc. and use the church as a venue to voice their issues. 

Is this reason enough to shelve the "Great Commission Baptist" tag? I'm not sure. However, in a world where media drives so much and pop culture often becomes the commonality between cultures, it may be more difficult to build bridges to people in other parts of the nation by calling ourselves "GCB Churches" rather than "SBC Churches." 

You think branding is not a big deal? Check out these stories. . .

• Wisconsin Tourism Federation rebranded as the Tourism Federation of Wisconsin. The acronym TFW avoids the negative press of the offensive acronym they previously used.
• The National Union of Teachers in the UK uses the acronym "NUT" on their website and promotional materials. There's even a link on their site to help teachers find employment that states "NUT Jobs." (No, I'm not making this up.)
• The Georgetown University Hospital's webpage has a link with information on Disability Benefits. Under the heading, there is a subheading titled "Short Term Disability (STD)" and throughout the page the acronym STD is used.
• The Boston Redevelopment Authority uses their acronym "BRA" throughout their advertising.
• Lighting Solutions and Design. . ."LSD"
• Bellingham, Washington has used a promotional piece advertising music in their area. The logo states "I Y BM's"
• From 1884 to 1912 the District of Alaska was known as "DOA"
• Progressive Management Systems. . ."PMS"
• The student organization developed by students in university called the Students of Women Studies goes by "SOWS"

These are funny, and all very real, but you can see what happens when you're not really, really careful with your acronym of choice.

Should we use the "Great Commission Baptists" moniker, we had better be ready to laugh at ourselves because of the likely connection with the show "GCB." Of course, the show probably won't last long, so this may be a moot point.

And, just to be fair, SBC has multiple meanings as well. . .

• Southern Baptist Convention
• Sweet Briar College
• Southport Brewing Company
• Somali Broadcasting Corporation
• Structural Biology Center

There are more. This is just the first page of the Google search.

Oh well, whatever title we have and use, may we truly be Great Commission Christians. It's in the personal relationships with others that the Gospel is shared and disciples are made.

Apparently Calling "Infanticide" "After-Birth Abortion" Makes It An Acceptable Practice. What?!?

Personally, I find the concept of abortion abhorrant. It has become a political issue, when in truth it should have nothing to do with politics. While some will challenge my beliefs, I truly cannot fathom the concept of murdering a baby and justifying it.

I was showing a clip connected with the upcoming film October Baby to my children last week that featured Gianna Jessen. Gianna's story as a failed abortion was inspiration for the new film. As we talked as a family, my children asked about Gianna and wondered how many people like here were out there. How many people were almost aborted? How does a person survive such a thing. Gianna's bio on her website states this . . .

Gianna is a Christian. Her life was given to her by the grace of God. She shouldn't be walking, but more miraculous still; she should not even be alive. Gianna's biological mother was 17 when she had a saline abortion in her third trimester. 

Many Americans don't realize it is legal to have an abortion throughout all nine months of pregnancy. After being burned alive for approximately 18 hours in the womb from the saline solution, Gianna was delivered alive in a Los Angeles County abortion clinic. Her medical records state, "born during saline abortion" ... this is what caused her Cerebral Palsy. 

Once "born" it was illegal to continue the abortion on Gianna. In other words, if Gianna had remained inside her mother for a little while longer, she could and would have been aborted. However, since she escaped (by the grace of God) the womb at this moment, the legal abortion turned into the illegal murder.

My personal beliefs, based on what I understand God's Word to say (Psalm 139:13, Jeremiah 1:5), is that life begins at conception, by God's design. Therefore, based upon this, I believe any abortion to be murder. That, apparently, is still up for debate in our culture. Somehow the right to live has been attacked by other "rights." But, I digress.

This morning I read a blog posting by Dr. Al Mohler about something I found to be even more appalling than abortion as we know it in our nation today. This even goes beyond the atrocity of partial-birth abortion. Doctors and those with a stake in the pro-abortion movement continue to debate the point where abortion should be allowed. Now, the reality of "after birth abortion" is being promoted. Dr. Mohler is clear that the moment of birth continues to be the debatable issue:

From the beginning of the controversy over abortion, this supposedly bright line of the moment of birth has been unstable. Abortion rights activists have even opposed efforts to restrict the gruesome reality known as partial-birth abortions. The moment of birth has never been the bright line of safety that the defenders of abortion have claimed.

Now, an even more chilling development comes in the form of an article just published in the Journal of Medical Ethics. Professors Alberto Giubilini of the University of Milan and Francesca Minerva of the University of Melbourne and Oxford University, now argue for the morality and legalization of “after-birth abortion.”

These authors do not hide their agenda. They are calling for the legal killing of newborn children.

The authors prefer the term "after birth abortion" to "infanticide" as if that makes it OK. Giublini and Minerva state that according to their research and beliefs. . .

“The moral status of an infant is equivalent to that of a fetus in the sense that both lack the properties that justify the attribution of a right to life to an individual.”

It's shocking. It's appalling. Rather than just repost all of Dr. Mohler's post, click here to read the full article.

God has called us as a church to delve deeper into His story, the Gospel. The Gospel is life.

As we live compelled by Christ, we then will be advocates of pure religion. I know religion has become a "bad term" among some Christ-followers today, but pure religion is what God seeks.

Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world. James 1:27 (ESV)

In this, we are called to advocate and fight for those who cannot, especially children (pre-born and out of the womb.) As the culture continues to redefine what constitutes a viable human being, may we not become like the people of the Old Testament who willingly sacrificed their children to the demon god Molech. Whether couched in political terms (which we hear often during this election cycle) or the verbage of "rights" may we, especially as Christ-followers, never allow the philosophies and acceptable behaviors of the culture determine what we deem as acceptable.

What Do We Do Now?

With the events of the last couple of days, Clay County has once again been in the news and unfortunately, our collective hearts are grieving.

On Thursday, February 16, Clay County Sheriff's Office deputies raided a suspected meth house in Middleburg. Shots were fired and Detective David White was fatally shot. Detective Matthew Hanlin was shot and seriously wounded (he is currently recovering at Orange Park Medical Center after surgery.) The alleged shooter was also fatally shot.

 

The death of Detective White has shaken our community. White was a "hometown boy," graduate of Middleburg High School (1995), veteran of the US Army (joined the Reserves and served in Bosnia, 1997-1998), nine year veteran of the Clay County Sheriff's Office, 35 year old devoted husband and father of two, and friend of many.

 

This is the first shooting death of a CCSO deputy in 99 years. 

What are we to make of this?

How are we to respond as believers?

Our first response is to pray. . .seriously pray. . .for Detective White's widow, children and other family members. Idon't pretend to know the range of emotions they are feeling right now, but they are off the chart. They need the prayers of all believers during this time. Only God can offer the "peace that passes understanding" and the healing needed.

The prayers do not need to stop once the flags currently flying at half mast are hoisted full again. When others seemingly get back "to business" this family will not. There is no "getting over this." They never will. However, through the grace of God, they can get through it, even if they do not see how. That's why our prayers are so vital. They need others standing in the gap for them.

Pray also for Detective Hanlin and family. He is recovering, but the memories of the day will linger. Emotions will run the gamut. 

Pray for all who serve with the Clay County Sheriff's Office as well as surrounding police departments & sheriff offices (Orange Park, Green Cove Springs, Jacksonville, etc.) An event such as this stays with the men and women who wear the badge for a very long time. Different emotions and feelings emerge and come seemingly from nowhere. Many of you have friends in law enforcement and some of you serve. Here's some insight from Police Chaplain David J. Fair. (Chaplain Fair is immediate past chair of the International Conference Police Chaplain’s Educational Committee and a former board member. Dr. Fair is Chaplain Emeritus of the Brownwood, Texas Police Department and a Chaplain for the Texas Department of Public Safety and a reserve officer/chaplain for the Brown County Sheriff’s Department.)

A line of duty death. There is no bigger crisis in law enforcement than an officer who has been killed in the line of duty. The death affects the officer’s family, the extended family of the agency and/or department, and the community at large.

When an officer dies it sends shockwaves throughout the department and causes major trauma. And, with this trauma comes the repercussions of traumatic stress.

Two of the most likely immediate reactions are shock and disbelief/denial. One might struggle with thoughts such as “This just couldn’t happen to him/her” and/or “I was just talking to them last night. He/she can’t be dead!”

Then the guilt. “I shouldn’t have taken the day off. If I had been working he wouldn’t have died”, and/or “If we wouldn’t have argued he/she would have been focused on his/her job”. The tormenting thoughts of guilt can be endless.

The ever present bargaining with God. “If you will only let him/her live, I’ll never touch another drink” and/or “I won’t ever complain about the paperwork again”.

The best thing an outsider can do is move patiently through the process. Listen, listen, and listen. When you are done listening, listen some more. Be a sounding board. The key thing is that you must be comfortable with silence, something many of us aren’t.

Chaplain Fair gives some more pointed advice on how to minister to the officers who serve. There really is no formula, so it's more than a "Do this. . . then this. . .and finally this, and everything will be OK." 

I know many of you have friends who serve and Chaplain Fair's advice as stated above is best. "Listen, listen. . .and listen." Sometimes just being the sounding board is best. God heals. God fixes. Let Him use you, but don't jump ahead of him.

Unfortunately, we often only think of police officers when we see the blue lights. At that moment, we hit the brakes, even if we're not speeding, and pray they're not pulling us over. Unfortunately, for many, that's the only interaction they have with those who serve.

I know during this time, many of our men and women wearing the badge are being told how much they are appreciated. Continue to do this, but do so regularly. . . not just as a response to tragedy.

There's more that can be done. Prayer is not only where we begin, but where we remain. The "Shield a Badge" prayer strategy has been used by some communities. It is a concerted effort to pray by officers by name on a regular basis for a period of time. I believe it's time to begin this strategy here - not as a program, but as an extension of the church for those who put their lives on the line every day.

Some may be led to give toward a fund for the Mrs. White and family. For those wishing to donate to White's family, the Clay County Sheriff's Office has set up an account. It's as follows:

• Clay County Sheriff's Office Deputies Humanitarian Fund at Heritage Bank in Orange Park.  The account number is 1520387212.

We must remember that no one is promised tomorrow. Live each day to the fullest. Live each day for the glory of God. 

May God bless our officers and public servants.

Details for Detective White's funeral service:

• Viewing: Sunday, February 19, 2012 from 1pm to 4pm at Russell Haven of Rest Funeral Home (2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043).
• Funeral: Monday, February 20, 2012 at 10am at First Baptist Church of Middleburg (2645 Blanding Boulevard, Middleburg, FL 32068)
• Burial: Immediately following funeral service at Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery.

Click here for the "Officer Down Memorial Page."

Orphans, Adoption, and Fostering. . . Not An Option for the Church

Over the past few months, God has been revealing to me and our leadership team His plans for our church to enter into a story already being written. This story involves something that for many has been reserved as a "private matter." It's something that some have a difficult time understanding why the church would be involved.

It has to do with children. Most churches are very positive toward children. We promote "family friendly" activities, events and ministries. Many have distinct children's ministries that feature camps, children's church and the mainstay of Baptist life - Vacation Bible School.

It's not that we do not love children. In fact, we do. It's just that there is a group of children in our community and throughout the world that we often do not talk about. These are the children living in orphanages and foster homes.

The question we are asking is "What is the church to do?"

 

I am convinced that God desires us not to simply give an offering a couple of times a year for orphan care (though we will continue to give financially.) I am saddened that many churches have left care for children in our society up to governmental agencies.

 

Why is it that we allow the Angelina Jolie's of the world to be the image of adoption? Isn't adoption and rescuing children a mandate for the church?

Many in our tribe are pro-life, as we are. We are adamently opposed to abortion, feeling that life begins at conception. However, beyond protesting abortion and advocating for the unborn, what do we do for those who have been born, but have no home? What about the child who is put up for adoption? What about the child that is in need of a safe home for a season, or a foster family?

Why does it seem that, for the most part, the church is satisfied with leaving orphan care and adoption up to others? 

I read this verse recently while studying. I had read it before, but this time it really struck a chord. God spoke through His Word to me when reading this verse and it was very clear. 

James 1:27(ESV)
Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world. 

Pure and undefiled religion. Now that's religion that God loves. Notice that the first item listed has to do with orphans. Visiting orphans. That is not all, there is also listed the ministry to widows and ultimately remaining unstained from the sin of the world (i.e. in the world, but not of it.)

If our commission as Christ-followers is to share the Gospel and make disciples, then wouldn't it make sense for Christians to be heavily involved in the ministry of adopting children who need homes. To rescue children and bring them to Christ is a worthy undertaking. 

I'm not sure how this will look for First Baptist Church, but I do know that we will be "all in." I see a day when there are no children in need of adoption in our county. Why? Because Christ-following families will rescue these children and bring them into their homes. Men and women will become "Mom and Dad" for children who have never known such a relationshiop. Some will experience the love of Christ through a family that heretofore they have never known.

In talking with our friends at the Florida Baptist Children's Homes, this step is vitally needed in our area.

So, the ball is rolling now. Steps are being taken. We will not rush in unprepared. . .but we will rush in. 

Why? Because we must.

Is it any different for believers in our culture to ignore the needs (phsyical, emotional, mental AND spiritual) of children and allow others to deal with it than what the Jewish people did in the Old Testament when they offered up children to false gods such as Molech? That may be an extreme comparison and will probably offend some, but in truth, there's not much difference. 

We, the called out ones, the rescued, the ransomed hearts, the children of God are to offer pure and undefiled worship to the Father. To ignore this aspect (and no, it's not the only one) eliminates our worship from being as pure as it could be.

What will this look like? I'm not sure, but here are some ideas:

• We will offer regularly scheduled MAPP classes here at the church (Apparently, these will soon be called PRIDE classes, but are the same thing. Required by the state in order to adopt.)
• We will offer connection groups for families wishing to adopt or foster children. This will enable couples to talk with and get answers about difficult questions from others who have previously gone through the process.
• We will upgrade and enhance our preschool and children's ministries to be more "user friendly" for families with foster children or children through the Safe Families program.
• We will offer training and information for any wishing to adopt or foster children. 
• We will educate church members about this mission and even those who cannot adopt of foster will be invited into the story. Every Christ-follower can be an advocate.
• Hopefully, through partnerships with other ministries, we will be able to offer scholarships or donations for families wishing to adopt. (This will be a huge faith step and maintained by an off site ministry.)
• International adoption will be an option and we want to help in the process. Whether this is through the China Nest of Hope or our mission in Haiti or some other location, we will offer step-by-step information on how, why, and what needs to be done.
• We will celebrate births of babies in our church family. We will celebrate the adoption of babies into families (regardless the age of the child.)
• We will be more involved in orphan care through the Children's Home here in Jacksonville as well as international orphanages.
• We will be an advocate for special needs adoptions.
• We will be an advocate for multi-racial adoptions.
• Etc. (This covers all the many things we haven't even thought of, but God already has in the works.)

We understand that adopting or fostering a child doesn't make a person a "super Christian." We do believe, however, that all believers can be involved in this mission. It's not a new mission. It's living the Gospel where God has placed us.