Soaking It All In
As I suffer through my sinus issues this weekend (okay, that was just a cheap play for sympathy), I'm soaking God in and watching in awe how He's moving in my family and my church.
We're already healing. We're already moving through the situation we found ourselves in and praising Him because of it. The light is shining brightly at the end of the tunnel. Amen.
Some questions running through my mind: If I say I'm open to discussion, does that mean both sides of an issue? If someone has an opinion different from my own, does that mean they're judging me?
I'm just wondering. And if anyone reads into that, don't. I'm not judging you. That job belongs to someone much greater than me.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Thursday, July 13, 2006
UNITY
[DISCLAIMER: As you’re reading this, do not take the word church to mean FBC, as I’m referring to the body of Christ at large (unless I specifically mention FBC – which I might). And, when I mention (and I might) theology theorists and methodology rhetoric, do not take that to mean any group or person that may have splintered from FBC. My focus is much broader. I’m not sayin’ I’m right – this is just my opinion. Feel free to have and share yours as well. Just keep it clean, as I’ve given my 12-year old son permission to read from this site. Keep your 4-letter words to yourself.]
The current movement that espouses Christians needing radically transformational lives is interesting to me. I’m not saying we shouldn’t have radically transformational lives, I just don’t agree with the assertion that we don’t already and can’t within the confines of institutional religion.
And it’s those constant references to institutional religion by new wave (radical?) thinkers I find particularly intriguing. The logic is lost on me.
The Institution of Religion
When does religion become an institution? Is it the size of the church that matters? Rules? Bylaws? Leadership? Traditions? What exactly are the determining factors? And is an institution really such a bad thing?
Institution: 1: an organization founded and united for a specific purpose 2: a custom that for a long time has been an important feature of some group or society 3: the act of starting something for the first time; introducing something new (Websters Online)
It’s fascinating that in the definition of institution we find references to both perpetuating the old and beginning the new. That should make it a scorned word to both the radical and the traditionalist. And yet it’s typically the radical that breathes the word with disdain and contempt.
So, the radical starts something new because he doesn’t agree with the institution (rage against the machine! down with the man! and all that). And before he knows it, he’s created a new institution – a place for a different radical to rally against in years to come. The cycle is vicious and counterproductive, and it’s really nothing new.
Take the Baptists for example. Did you know that the first known Baptist congregation was formed by a number of fleeing separatists in Amsterdam, Holland, in 1608? As they saw it at that time, it was important to 'reconstitute' and not just 'reform' the Church. What a bunch of radicals!
Some like to point to Jesus and call him a radical revolutionary. It’s really not that far of a stretch when you think about it. Closer to the truth, however, He was very much the traditionalist. When He turned over the tables at the temple and drove out the buyers and sellers, he wasn’t trying to institute a radical new set of ideas or laws. On the contrary, He was pointing the people back to scripture – BACK to where they should have been in the first place. Here is the Word of God:
12 Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. 13 "It is written," he said to them, "'My house will be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it a 'den of robbers.'" – Matthew 21:12-13 (NIV)
Revolutionary? Hardly. Unless you believe guiding the church back to its roots is revolutionary (making a full circle back to a point of origin is, by definition, revolutionary, so I’ll concede the point). The fact is the Bible is rife with instances of Jesus pointing us BACK to scripture and BACK to our roots.
In verse 14 of Matthew 21 we clearly see God’s view of the church: The blind and the lame came to him at the temple, and he healed them.
They came, and He healed them! Do you see it? People come and meet Christ in the church and are healed! My family and I did. Can I get an Amen?
New ideas? New methodologies? Do they have their place in the modern church? Yes! But, both the radical and the traditional are better served when they work together in unity (assuming the new idea does not go against the Word of God). Working against each other not only perpetuates our counterproductive cycle of one institution replacing another, it also goes against the Word of God.
1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. – Ephesians 4:1-6
We are one body. To have a faction of the body working against the body is a bit like kicking ourselves repeatedly in the shin. Number one, it hurts; and number two, it will eventually cripple us.
This is not to say that every new thought or idea will fit neatly inside the box that is traditional church. Many will be called out of the traditional church to begin a new venture designed to reach the lost. And when this happens, the traditional church should remain supportive of its brothers in Christ as they set out for His glory (assuming what they’re advocating lines up with the Word of God).
At the same time, those who are called to go should remain supportive of the traditional church. Their very survival depends on it. In numbers we find strength through physical and spiritual resources (logistic, strategic, and tactical support for the Army of God). When the body functions in unity, the strength of the larger body can be shared with the smaller parts who are following God’s will – through things like missionary support, financial support, material support, prayers, etc.
Ode to My Radically Transformational Life
The assertion mainstream Christians don’t have radically transformational lives doesn’t make sense to me. When I walk with Christ in my daily life, it’s near impossible not to affect those around me. Sometimes I know it and can bear witness to it. More often, I will never even know how my life affects others. And that’s radical. That’s God.
If I’m on my way to church, should I feel guilty that my neighbor doesn’t have a relationship with Christ? I don’t think so. Should I demonstrate a life with Christ in my daily walk and in my relationships with the unsaved? You bet! God will choose the time and place my neighbor will accept Him into his heart, not me. I am merely a facilitator.
My heart is for missions and aches for the lost. I believe it’s our responsibility to reach out in any manner possible short of sin to save those who don’t yet believe. This concept is not lost on me. But, I don’t believe that my desire to save the lost somehow overrides God’s work in the church. One does not cancel out the other.
In the Air Force, I led people to Christ right in my office. We established small-group Bible studies and fellowship before the duty day began. We exampled to others a life with Christ and sought to change the hearts of unbelievers around us. And many of those who were saved would not have come to church in the traditional sense. They needed something different, so we provided it.
Even in my new professional life, there are none who I work with that don’t know I’m a Christian. I speak with boldness and seek the opportunities God presents to witness throughout my day. And He’s allowed me to make steady inroads to the unsaved people I work with.
I say this not to brag, but to demonstrate that the idea of a radically transformational life can coexist with a healthy church life. It’s not one way or the other. Yes, we can hang out at the mall or with unsaved friends on Sunday in an effort to establish relationships that might lead someone to Christ.
But, who would teach my Bible study class? Who would feed the people who come looking for spiritual food? Who would lead others in worship or preach the Word of God to them? Who would provide the financial resources to missionaries around the world?
There has to be somewhere a person can just walk to off of the street to find Christ. That’s the role of the traditional church that’s irreplaceable. In addition to feeding believers en mass and glorifying the Father through worship and praise, the church provides refuge for those who are seeking and don’t know where to turn.
Oh, Woes Me
I reread the Seven Woes (Matthew 23:1-39) over and over looking for Christ to say institutional religion in itself was bad. He didn’t. It was the people (leaders) and their hypocritical ways He was berating. In fact, throughout the scriptures, I couldn’t find one verse where Christ advocated closing the temples.
To be sure, there are many in churches today who should take serious heed of Christ’s warnings (well…all of us should). We must constantly examine ourselves to ensure we don’t become the hypocrites Christ spoke of. Traditional church should not become a haven for the saved to protect them from the world. Instead, I believe it should be the training ground for sending Christ’s soldiers back into the world.
The traditional church should breathe in on Sunday, sucking in the lost and those who are seeking. And it should breathe out the rest of the week, sending its trained and prepared messengers back into the streets to find and help save the non-believers.
It’s important to recognize Christ’s mandate in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). He makes it clear we are to go. Likewise, our local church should reflect this command. Go into the community (or farther if need be) to establish life changing relationships. This should be our adopted church culture.
The newly saved will then need somewhere to go in order to learn more about the Word and to develop their relationship with Christ. For many, that will mean traditional church. For others, that will look completely different. And that’s okay, as long as the hungry are being fed.
The Bottom Line
If we’re truly about reaching out to save an entire planet, it will mean a unified effort to accomplish the mission at hand. Our traditional churches must adopt a go versus come mentality while the radical (visionary?) thinkers should stop fighting against the church. Instead, they should join forces with traditional believers and recognize the importance of an institution that will stand the test of time.
Here’s how Jesus prayed for all believers:
22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: 23 I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. – John 17:22-23
A penny for your thoughts? Well, I’m not actually going to pay you for your thoughts. But, I do like to hear the different viewpoints and welcome your comments.
[DISCLAIMER: As you’re reading this, do not take the word church to mean FBC, as I’m referring to the body of Christ at large (unless I specifically mention FBC – which I might). And, when I mention (and I might) theology theorists and methodology rhetoric, do not take that to mean any group or person that may have splintered from FBC. My focus is much broader. I’m not sayin’ I’m right – this is just my opinion. Feel free to have and share yours as well. Just keep it clean, as I’ve given my 12-year old son permission to read from this site. Keep your 4-letter words to yourself.]
The current movement that espouses Christians needing radically transformational lives is interesting to me. I’m not saying we shouldn’t have radically transformational lives, I just don’t agree with the assertion that we don’t already and can’t within the confines of institutional religion.
And it’s those constant references to institutional religion by new wave (radical?) thinkers I find particularly intriguing. The logic is lost on me.
The Institution of Religion
When does religion become an institution? Is it the size of the church that matters? Rules? Bylaws? Leadership? Traditions? What exactly are the determining factors? And is an institution really such a bad thing?
Institution: 1: an organization founded and united for a specific purpose 2: a custom that for a long time has been an important feature of some group or society 3: the act of starting something for the first time; introducing something new (Websters Online)
It’s fascinating that in the definition of institution we find references to both perpetuating the old and beginning the new. That should make it a scorned word to both the radical and the traditionalist. And yet it’s typically the radical that breathes the word with disdain and contempt.
So, the radical starts something new because he doesn’t agree with the institution (rage against the machine! down with the man! and all that). And before he knows it, he’s created a new institution – a place for a different radical to rally against in years to come. The cycle is vicious and counterproductive, and it’s really nothing new.
Take the Baptists for example. Did you know that the first known Baptist congregation was formed by a number of fleeing separatists in Amsterdam, Holland, in 1608? As they saw it at that time, it was important to 'reconstitute' and not just 'reform' the Church. What a bunch of radicals!
Some like to point to Jesus and call him a radical revolutionary. It’s really not that far of a stretch when you think about it. Closer to the truth, however, He was very much the traditionalist. When He turned over the tables at the temple and drove out the buyers and sellers, he wasn’t trying to institute a radical new set of ideas or laws. On the contrary, He was pointing the people back to scripture – BACK to where they should have been in the first place. Here is the Word of God:
12 Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. 13 "It is written," he said to them, "'My house will be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it a 'den of robbers.'" – Matthew 21:12-13 (NIV)
Revolutionary? Hardly. Unless you believe guiding the church back to its roots is revolutionary (making a full circle back to a point of origin is, by definition, revolutionary, so I’ll concede the point). The fact is the Bible is rife with instances of Jesus pointing us BACK to scripture and BACK to our roots.
In verse 14 of Matthew 21 we clearly see God’s view of the church: The blind and the lame came to him at the temple, and he healed them.
They came, and He healed them! Do you see it? People come and meet Christ in the church and are healed! My family and I did. Can I get an Amen?
New ideas? New methodologies? Do they have their place in the modern church? Yes! But, both the radical and the traditional are better served when they work together in unity (assuming the new idea does not go against the Word of God). Working against each other not only perpetuates our counterproductive cycle of one institution replacing another, it also goes against the Word of God.
1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. – Ephesians 4:1-6
We are one body. To have a faction of the body working against the body is a bit like kicking ourselves repeatedly in the shin. Number one, it hurts; and number two, it will eventually cripple us.
This is not to say that every new thought or idea will fit neatly inside the box that is traditional church. Many will be called out of the traditional church to begin a new venture designed to reach the lost. And when this happens, the traditional church should remain supportive of its brothers in Christ as they set out for His glory (assuming what they’re advocating lines up with the Word of God).
At the same time, those who are called to go should remain supportive of the traditional church. Their very survival depends on it. In numbers we find strength through physical and spiritual resources (logistic, strategic, and tactical support for the Army of God). When the body functions in unity, the strength of the larger body can be shared with the smaller parts who are following God’s will – through things like missionary support, financial support, material support, prayers, etc.
Ode to My Radically Transformational Life
The assertion mainstream Christians don’t have radically transformational lives doesn’t make sense to me. When I walk with Christ in my daily life, it’s near impossible not to affect those around me. Sometimes I know it and can bear witness to it. More often, I will never even know how my life affects others. And that’s radical. That’s God.
If I’m on my way to church, should I feel guilty that my neighbor doesn’t have a relationship with Christ? I don’t think so. Should I demonstrate a life with Christ in my daily walk and in my relationships with the unsaved? You bet! God will choose the time and place my neighbor will accept Him into his heart, not me. I am merely a facilitator.
My heart is for missions and aches for the lost. I believe it’s our responsibility to reach out in any manner possible short of sin to save those who don’t yet believe. This concept is not lost on me. But, I don’t believe that my desire to save the lost somehow overrides God’s work in the church. One does not cancel out the other.
In the Air Force, I led people to Christ right in my office. We established small-group Bible studies and fellowship before the duty day began. We exampled to others a life with Christ and sought to change the hearts of unbelievers around us. And many of those who were saved would not have come to church in the traditional sense. They needed something different, so we provided it.
Even in my new professional life, there are none who I work with that don’t know I’m a Christian. I speak with boldness and seek the opportunities God presents to witness throughout my day. And He’s allowed me to make steady inroads to the unsaved people I work with.
I say this not to brag, but to demonstrate that the idea of a radically transformational life can coexist with a healthy church life. It’s not one way or the other. Yes, we can hang out at the mall or with unsaved friends on Sunday in an effort to establish relationships that might lead someone to Christ.
But, who would teach my Bible study class? Who would feed the people who come looking for spiritual food? Who would lead others in worship or preach the Word of God to them? Who would provide the financial resources to missionaries around the world?
There has to be somewhere a person can just walk to off of the street to find Christ. That’s the role of the traditional church that’s irreplaceable. In addition to feeding believers en mass and glorifying the Father through worship and praise, the church provides refuge for those who are seeking and don’t know where to turn.
Oh, Woes Me
I reread the Seven Woes (Matthew 23:1-39) over and over looking for Christ to say institutional religion in itself was bad. He didn’t. It was the people (leaders) and their hypocritical ways He was berating. In fact, throughout the scriptures, I couldn’t find one verse where Christ advocated closing the temples.
To be sure, there are many in churches today who should take serious heed of Christ’s warnings (well…all of us should). We must constantly examine ourselves to ensure we don’t become the hypocrites Christ spoke of. Traditional church should not become a haven for the saved to protect them from the world. Instead, I believe it should be the training ground for sending Christ’s soldiers back into the world.
The traditional church should breathe in on Sunday, sucking in the lost and those who are seeking. And it should breathe out the rest of the week, sending its trained and prepared messengers back into the streets to find and help save the non-believers.
It’s important to recognize Christ’s mandate in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). He makes it clear we are to go. Likewise, our local church should reflect this command. Go into the community (or farther if need be) to establish life changing relationships. This should be our adopted church culture.
The newly saved will then need somewhere to go in order to learn more about the Word and to develop their relationship with Christ. For many, that will mean traditional church. For others, that will look completely different. And that’s okay, as long as the hungry are being fed.
The Bottom Line
If we’re truly about reaching out to save an entire planet, it will mean a unified effort to accomplish the mission at hand. Our traditional churches must adopt a go versus come mentality while the radical (visionary?) thinkers should stop fighting against the church. Instead, they should join forces with traditional believers and recognize the importance of an institution that will stand the test of time.
Here’s how Jesus prayed for all believers:
22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: 23 I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. – John 17:22-23
A penny for your thoughts? Well, I’m not actually going to pay you for your thoughts. But, I do like to hear the different viewpoints and welcome your comments.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
What an Awesome Day!
Quite a few people approached me with some truly edifying words today. It appears the revolution is gaining momentum and I'm far from alone in my feelings. Thank you to those who took the time to say a kind word.
I was highly encouraged during today’s service. Pastor’s message was right on time – absolutely brilliant! And to see him once again singing praises with his daughter was awesome! I’m happy for him, as I’m sure he needed that. I think we all did.
I have the sense our church is on a journey back to our roots, a place where Bible study (real wisdom), bare naked worship and praise (without the distractions), and passionate preaching will replace the theology theorists and methodology rhetoric that has so fractured our congregation.
It’s not to say God doesn’t have a place and a purpose for those who espouse change. But I feel we have the responsibility to adapt our approach in facilitating change to match the environment around us. It’s the way we as human beings push our agenda that’s problematic. You can’t be a rhino in a china shop and then wonder why people hold you accountable for the collateral damage.
2 Timothy 4:2-4
2Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 3For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.
Our revolution requires increased knowledge of the Word. These verses from Pastor’s sermon really struck me. How can we recognize those who espouse ideas that don’t line up with the Word of God if we don’t know the Word of God? Bible study – real meaningful study of the Word – is where our protection will come from.
Knowing the Word will also help us in our interaction with each other. One of the best tools God has given us to introduce Him into the lives of others is….well….our own lives. When we live according to the Word, we eliminate the hypocrisy that runs the risk of keeping the lost from seeking Him. It’s the beauty of living with Christ as our Savior that will attract the lost.
Colossians 3:12-14
12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Living according to the Word also means improving relationships within the body. Compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience – these are the virtues to demonstrate in our revolution.
We must truly learn to forgive. Jesus taught us this in the Lords prayer, “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” (Matthew 6:12) According to His Word, we shouldn’t ask for forgiveness until we have forgiven.
And then there’s love. With Christ driven love, whole and pure, we cannot fail. Demonstrating love to each other requires living by the fruits of the Spirit and will bind us together in unity.
Colossians 3:15-17
15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Enough said. Goodnight, my brothers and sisters in Christ. I pray blessing for all of you.
Quite a few people approached me with some truly edifying words today. It appears the revolution is gaining momentum and I'm far from alone in my feelings. Thank you to those who took the time to say a kind word.
I was highly encouraged during today’s service. Pastor’s message was right on time – absolutely brilliant! And to see him once again singing praises with his daughter was awesome! I’m happy for him, as I’m sure he needed that. I think we all did.
I have the sense our church is on a journey back to our roots, a place where Bible study (real wisdom), bare naked worship and praise (without the distractions), and passionate preaching will replace the theology theorists and methodology rhetoric that has so fractured our congregation.
It’s not to say God doesn’t have a place and a purpose for those who espouse change. But I feel we have the responsibility to adapt our approach in facilitating change to match the environment around us. It’s the way we as human beings push our agenda that’s problematic. You can’t be a rhino in a china shop and then wonder why people hold you accountable for the collateral damage.
2 Timothy 4:2-4
2Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 3For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.
Our revolution requires increased knowledge of the Word. These verses from Pastor’s sermon really struck me. How can we recognize those who espouse ideas that don’t line up with the Word of God if we don’t know the Word of God? Bible study – real meaningful study of the Word – is where our protection will come from.
Knowing the Word will also help us in our interaction with each other. One of the best tools God has given us to introduce Him into the lives of others is….well….our own lives. When we live according to the Word, we eliminate the hypocrisy that runs the risk of keeping the lost from seeking Him. It’s the beauty of living with Christ as our Savior that will attract the lost.
Colossians 3:12-14
12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Living according to the Word also means improving relationships within the body. Compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience – these are the virtues to demonstrate in our revolution.
We must truly learn to forgive. Jesus taught us this in the Lords prayer, “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” (Matthew 6:12) According to His Word, we shouldn’t ask for forgiveness until we have forgiven.
And then there’s love. With Christ driven love, whole and pure, we cannot fail. Demonstrating love to each other requires living by the fruits of the Spirit and will bind us together in unity.
Colossians 3:15-17
15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Enough said. Goodnight, my brothers and sisters in Christ. I pray blessing for all of you.
Friday, July 07, 2006
Ah...It seems like just yesterday I retired from the Air Force. It all came back to me today as I watched my friend and brother in Christ Mark hang up his uniform after 23 years of service to his country. Congratulations to you Mark and your entire family! You've done your country proud. I think the thing I was most moved by at your ceremony was how successful you truly are in your profession of arms, your family, and in serving God. Thank you for being such an awesome example to all of us. Now, get some well deserved rest. And then get a job!
Thursday, July 06, 2006
My Butterflies Just Don’t Matter
Ephesians 4:11-13
11 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12 to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Unity. It seems like a distant word these days. Dissention and discord have permeated the body and fractured our focus. But, it’s not the end. On the contrary, it’s a new beginning.
Does it really matter who’s to blame? Do we need to dissect, debate, and analyze the situation until it consumes us? I can’t count the conversations and e-mails I’ve shared with my brothers and sisters over this topic in the last few days.
I have my opinions and have, perhaps, been too quick to share them. I’m guilty of perpetuating the very beast I purport to despise. Are you doing the same?
How many of the lost were not saved this week because our focus was not on them? How many came to our church last Sunday and left disgusted and will never return? Was it just one? It breaks my heart to think about. I don’t speak for God, but I can’t imagine He was well pleased with us on Sunday. I can’t even say he was well pleased with me on the days that followed.
Revolution: A drastic and far-reaching change in ways of thinking and behaving.
Revolution: A single complete turn; an orbit, if you will, whereby we end up right back where we started.
Our revolution is this: We must return to being a church body where the lost become found. Our focus has to be on God, worshipping Him in all we do and demonstrating His love in our daily walk. Our mission must stand up to the scrutiny of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). We must become a “go” church versus a “come” church. This will take leadership and teaching.
To be sure, God has a place and a purpose for each of us. It’s not for us to impose our will on others and it’s definitely not for us to impose our will on God. He calls the shots. Our responsibility is to answer His calling. For some, that will mean leaving. For others, that will mean staying. But we must be sure of what our own personal part is.
Ephesians 4:14-16
14 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Imagine each part of the body working in unison towards the same goal. Imagine studying the Word of God, living the Word of God, and through our example bringing others to do the same. Imagine a place where the body may join in unison to worship the Living God. Imagine a place where true freedom of worshipful expression reins and where the only limits are scriptural and not man’s opinion. There in lies the revolution.
I’ve come to realize worship is not for me. The butterflies I feel in my stomach when the worship grows deeper and the music gets louder just don’t matter. None of it is for me.
I wonder; does God get butterflies when His children worship Him? Does He get emotional when we love and adore Him? Because it’s for Him we worship. It’s for Him we raise our hands and sing out praises.
The worship style is even less important than my butterflies. If a particular song can capture the heart of someone who is not saved, does it really matter the musical genre? I’m not a dancer; God didn’t create me that way. I don’t even particularly care to watch others doing it. It’s distracting. But, if God can use dance to bring others to Him, then why would we want to stop it?
The body moves in unison towards a single goal. Amazing.
Ephesians 4:25-28
25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 "In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.
In my anger, I’ve sinned this week. I’ve hurt people I consider my closest friends with my harsh words and rhetoric. For that I’m truly sorry.
But, I can’t be sorry about the message. God has put it in my heart to rally his people. There is work to be done and people in need. I can’t ignore the calling.
I’ll say it over and over again. If you’ve been called to go, then you must go and get to work where God would have you work. If you’ve been called to stay, then you must stay and get to work right here – in unity with all your brothers and sisters.
But whether we’re going or staying, let’s quit being like the thief, hijacking our brothers’ grace by perpetuating the rift. We must work, doing something useful with our hands; that we might share with those in need. And there are plenty who are in need.
Ephesians 4:29-32
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Unity. It’s not an impossible dream. We must edify and build each other up. We must set our personal differences aside and work together for God’s glory. Kindness and compassion must rule our hearts.
Something I witnessed while on missions in Mexico was how well we worked together as a team. Our purpose was singular and our focus was where it should be. When people on our team were dropping from the heat, there were always more than enough volunteers to help carry them. I heard such great words of encouragement and love. This must be the key.
At dinner last night, a friend said (I’m paraphrasing), “I don’t know why all the fuss. Churches go through situations like this all the time. God will shake out those He wants to move on. In the end, He will be glorified.” Amen.
My butterflies just don’t matter.
NOTE: The idea for the title of this post came from my wife. She's the most precious gift God has blessed me with. I can't imagine going through life without her! Te quiero mi preciosa.
Ephesians 4:11-13
11 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12 to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Unity. It seems like a distant word these days. Dissention and discord have permeated the body and fractured our focus. But, it’s not the end. On the contrary, it’s a new beginning.
Does it really matter who’s to blame? Do we need to dissect, debate, and analyze the situation until it consumes us? I can’t count the conversations and e-mails I’ve shared with my brothers and sisters over this topic in the last few days.
I have my opinions and have, perhaps, been too quick to share them. I’m guilty of perpetuating the very beast I purport to despise. Are you doing the same?
How many of the lost were not saved this week because our focus was not on them? How many came to our church last Sunday and left disgusted and will never return? Was it just one? It breaks my heart to think about. I don’t speak for God, but I can’t imagine He was well pleased with us on Sunday. I can’t even say he was well pleased with me on the days that followed.
Revolution: A drastic and far-reaching change in ways of thinking and behaving.
Revolution: A single complete turn; an orbit, if you will, whereby we end up right back where we started.
Our revolution is this: We must return to being a church body where the lost become found. Our focus has to be on God, worshipping Him in all we do and demonstrating His love in our daily walk. Our mission must stand up to the scrutiny of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). We must become a “go” church versus a “come” church. This will take leadership and teaching.
To be sure, God has a place and a purpose for each of us. It’s not for us to impose our will on others and it’s definitely not for us to impose our will on God. He calls the shots. Our responsibility is to answer His calling. For some, that will mean leaving. For others, that will mean staying. But we must be sure of what our own personal part is.
Ephesians 4:14-16
14 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Imagine each part of the body working in unison towards the same goal. Imagine studying the Word of God, living the Word of God, and through our example bringing others to do the same. Imagine a place where the body may join in unison to worship the Living God. Imagine a place where true freedom of worshipful expression reins and where the only limits are scriptural and not man’s opinion. There in lies the revolution.
I’ve come to realize worship is not for me. The butterflies I feel in my stomach when the worship grows deeper and the music gets louder just don’t matter. None of it is for me.
I wonder; does God get butterflies when His children worship Him? Does He get emotional when we love and adore Him? Because it’s for Him we worship. It’s for Him we raise our hands and sing out praises.
The worship style is even less important than my butterflies. If a particular song can capture the heart of someone who is not saved, does it really matter the musical genre? I’m not a dancer; God didn’t create me that way. I don’t even particularly care to watch others doing it. It’s distracting. But, if God can use dance to bring others to Him, then why would we want to stop it?
The body moves in unison towards a single goal. Amazing.
Ephesians 4:25-28
25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 "In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.
In my anger, I’ve sinned this week. I’ve hurt people I consider my closest friends with my harsh words and rhetoric. For that I’m truly sorry.
But, I can’t be sorry about the message. God has put it in my heart to rally his people. There is work to be done and people in need. I can’t ignore the calling.
I’ll say it over and over again. If you’ve been called to go, then you must go and get to work where God would have you work. If you’ve been called to stay, then you must stay and get to work right here – in unity with all your brothers and sisters.
But whether we’re going or staying, let’s quit being like the thief, hijacking our brothers’ grace by perpetuating the rift. We must work, doing something useful with our hands; that we might share with those in need. And there are plenty who are in need.
Ephesians 4:29-32
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Unity. It’s not an impossible dream. We must edify and build each other up. We must set our personal differences aside and work together for God’s glory. Kindness and compassion must rule our hearts.
Something I witnessed while on missions in Mexico was how well we worked together as a team. Our purpose was singular and our focus was where it should be. When people on our team were dropping from the heat, there were always more than enough volunteers to help carry them. I heard such great words of encouragement and love. This must be the key.
At dinner last night, a friend said (I’m paraphrasing), “I don’t know why all the fuss. Churches go through situations like this all the time. God will shake out those He wants to move on. In the end, He will be glorified.” Amen.
My butterflies just don’t matter.
NOTE: The idea for the title of this post came from my wife. She's the most precious gift God has blessed me with. I can't imagine going through life without her! Te quiero mi preciosa.
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