9 Things that Characterized the 1st Century Church

So if you didn't listen to this from Tim Keller you should. Just take 10 minutes. It will be worth your time. One of the things he talks about is how the 1st century church was characterized by a few very distinct views of culture. In that day, the church influenced culture. It was not influenced by it.

Here are 9 ways he says the church was radically different from the culture of its day.

-They empowered women in a patriarchal society
-They didn't attend gladiator fests. For this, they were considered anti-social
-Against abortion
-Against gay practices
-Against war. They did not fight for Caesar's army
-Against sex outside of marriage
-Racially diverse in a way that was shocking to culture
-Believed Jesus was the only way to salvation
-Advocated for the poor in a way no one else in society did.

Of course the church has been classified by the "against" items on this list but this is rapidly changing. One of the reasons I think this was the norm was that it was easy. It is easy to say what you believe. The others on the list require action (Save, Jesus is the only way to salvation. Although that requires action too). The church forgot about advocating for the poor, including all races, empowering women (still largely in a patriarchal dominated society), and supporting non-violence. Sometimes I think we still do. If you want to say, "We are trying to get back to the roots of the 1st century church", you should act like it.

The Tension is Good

It's been about a week since Catalyst and I think I am still processing some things that were said. With so much great content, it's extremely difficult to pick a favorite. Even the theme is provocative-The Tension is Good. When I heard the theme, the cynical side of me came out. "Have you experienced my tension? Exactly what kind of tension are talking about? Too much tension usually means things break-that's never fun." But as always, in perfect Catalyst fashion, they delivered. Generational tension, job and family tension, ministry tension, leadership tension, spiritual tension...you name it, they probably talked about it. I think the most valuable lesson I learned while there was this. Lean into the tension. Figure out why it's there (sometimes obvious, other times not), figure out what you can learn from it and know that tension always stretches you. Thanks Catalyst 2010. Through some difficult lessons, you made me a better Christian, leader, husband and person. Can't wait to drink from the fire hose again next year.

Comment

So, I realized something profound today (not really...just kinda fun to say). I love getting comments on my blog. I'm sure those of you who read mind and have a blog feel the same. There is something exciting about putting your thoughts out there and getting feedback (negative or positive). There are a few of you who comment pretty regularly, and it is much appreciated. Anyway, back to that profound thought. I realized that I don't comment on others blogs nearly enough. I know how much I enjoy it so I'm going to make it my goal to comment regularly on others blogs. So, if you read my blog, and have a blog as well (that I don't already read), let me know (i.e. leave a comment-ha!).

Life of the Mind

C.S. Lewis calls pride "The supreme vice". He goes on to explain that pride is there when we think we have whipped some other vice. And when we think we have "whipped" all of them, we begin to think better of ourselves which easily turns into pride. What's frustrating, is all of this takes place inside. Sure, some people are outwardly prideful (I know I am at times), but that just shows an insecurity which, ironically, says about them that they have the exact opposite view of themselves. Too often in the church do we neglect the life and sins of the mind. The reality is, if you have grown up in the church, or for that matter, live in the bible belt you probably don't struggle with the "major" sins. Which of course are drinking, watching "R" rated movies and sex outside of marriage (which I heard can lead to dancing). The point is, the majority of Christians struggle with pride, envy, jealousy, lust, anger, resentment, thinking we are better than others and so on. All of which can have no outward signs. Paul says, in Romans 12, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind." Paul knew this was extremely vital to our lives as Christians. We must guard and renew our minds daily through the word, prayer, the spirit and each other, as to not let that "supreme vice" take hold.

Real men engage

This is a post i was priveleged to write a couple weeks back for the Finding Manhood blog.

The best advice I have received in while, “Be more interested and less interesting”.

What a novel concept! Quick to listen, slow to speak…seems like I’ve heard this somewhere before.

For some reason, that little phrase stuck with me, and I immediately took it to heart. I think most men pride themselves in being interesting. Whether it’s my job, my hobbies, what my family does on the weekends or my knowledge about a particular subject, I find myself wanting to be the one who people say, “that’s interesting” to.

When I catch myself being reminded of this it often reveals in me a deeper truth about who I am as a person. Although, I know the world doesn’t actually revolved around me, I find myself having conversation like it does. However, when I converse and live by this rule, conversation and friendship becomes so much more freeing.

This small act of selflessness requires me to not bring up that “little known fact” just because the conversation is in a lull. It requires me to think of questions that probe and challenge and motivate. It requires me to view people as actually made in the image of God. It’s as if we all have this little piece of God inside of us — Christians or not. It becomes a much more interesting conversation when you ask yourself, “Which piece of God do they have and how can I get them to tell me about it?”

Maybe you don’t have a problem listening. That’s kind of what we do as husbands/men — listen. Sure being more interested is about listening, but it’s just as much about engaging.

Listening is easy. Engaging…now that sounds interesting.

Men and the Church

Did you know that women make up 61% of church attenders and men only 38%? If you put it into raw numbers, 13 million more women attend church than men on the average Sunday. This begs a few questions. Why is the church not engaging men? Maybe a better question is, "Is it easier for the church to engage women than men?" Have we really made the church effeminate asking men to get in touch with their "sensitive" side? All of these questions bother me as a minister. I'm sure I may have a bit of tainted view as I deal with some of the greatest Christian guys on a regular basis. However, I wonder about the average american man. In his book, "Why Men Hate Going to Church", David Murrow says "Men follow men-not programs". I think this typifies the men of America. Who do we aspire to-The CEO's, the NFL, NBA, and MLB stars and actors that "save the day." Men follow and connect with other men. We don't follow and connect with a bunch of other men watching one man talk about the issues of the day (Oprah for the ladies). So, I guess to get more men in the church, we need more men worth following-simple to understand, difficult in practice. Either way, if I was a single guy...13 million is looking like pretty good odds to me.

Preaching for Repentance

Not to long ago Caleb and I were blessed with the opportunity to preach a 10-week series on Sunday nights at Mayfair. It was a great time of growth and discipline for both of us, as well as extremely humbling. I didn't do alot of blogging during that time because it was consumed preparing sermons and doing the rest of my job. I had plenty of great thoughts and ideas for blogs, but my writing had an outlet elsewhere. This blog is one of those thoughts.

I think we have a distorted view of what preaching should be. It's gone through phases. The "Hellfire and brimstone" stage, the "3 points and a practical application" stage, the "Grace is all you need" stage, the "prosperity gospel" stage, and the ever popular "Coolest TV show rip-off" (this being the one with no biblical content and just a "relevant" feel good message). I'm all for being serious, practical and full of grace in our preaching, but if you take any these methods to far in one direction, I'm afraid we are loosing a biblical perspective on preaching. The best preachers I know or listen to, adhere to none of these. These preachers have a God given gift to let the text stand on it's own. Yes these preachers are relevant, practical, graceful and even a bit hellfirey, but I think most of them would tell you that those are the benefits and results of preaching the suffering, grace, death, victory and resurrection of the cross. After listening, one walks away challenged, convicted and wanting to repent. I think repentance is key. I challenge you to find a sermon preached in the New Testament where repentance was not the goal, outcome, or forethought. I've written on this before, but repentance is not a one time thing. We don't repent once and then become a Christian, we continue to repent because we are a Christian. Consequently, I believe the biblical model for preaching is to preach for repentance. This is the essence of the Christians walk-sanctification. Yes, God is ultimately the one who does the sanctifying, but repentance, total reliance on his unwavering love and a longing to always be better are essential as well. So the next time you see an octagon cage on the stage, with a sermon series entitled, "Ultimate Faith Fighting", just make sure repentance is the goal-not the cool graphic.

Seasons

One of the most revealing statements I have heard in a while was by John Piper. I don't have the exact phrase, but when paraphrased it goes something like, "I have had great seasons of draught and despair while reading God's word". The point he was making was that in reading the word of God he still has seasons of doubt, distress, anguish and confusion. It wasn't to long ago that I couldn't get enough of 1 Peter. God was revealing his heart and reading his word was all I wanted to do. It was a great season of clarity and discovery. Now, I find myself in some other season that is not that. I find myself being forced to read because I have to come up with curriculum or prepare for a class. Not that I don't enjoy those things in themselves, but it's the conviction and burden that I lack. Although I think that one of the main ways God reveals himself is through his word, it is obvious this isn't his only choice of revelation. Clearly I am not advocating to just stop reading as I think this is an extremely important part of a christians walk. But there are times when I feel I get nothing more out of the text than a neat story. I think it is in these times God forces us to look elsewhere to find him-in the simple things. Prayer, friends, family, good conversation, meditation on the blessings of life...I'm sure you can think of a few more. As simple as this sounds it has been difficult in practice. To rely on these nebulous intangibles, when I am so accustomed to doing something tangible (read), becomes a difficult task. My prayer is that God would reveal himself to us in whatever ways possible, in order that we may glorify him.

Why We Go to Church

I read a post from this guy this morning and it got me thinking about a few things. I think it is safe to say the church has a bad rap for a long line of things. I think most of you would agree that the current generation of church goers and post-modern thinkers are trying to change that. One of those "things" being church attendance. I'm all for getting people in the door to let them hear a message that might change their life. But, I believe, in the last few years, church attendance has become the point. As much as we say, "It's not about checking Sunday mornings off your list," deep down, people in my faith heritage say things like, "How can we get them to come on Sunday or Wednesday nights. I'm worried about them." Maybe you're not "worried" about them, but even as a minister, I look at the people that come consistently on Sunday nights as stronger christians and those that don't the "weaker brother." Maybe this paradigm is true in some sense. But, I believe, the reason this idea is still prevalent is because the church has failed at teaching people to seek God on their own. Here's what I'm not saying. I'm not saying that the church doesn't help people to grow spiritually. I'm not saying the church doesn't provide a place for the family of God to lift each other up. These are the questions you should ask yourself. Do I go to church to escape seeking God on my own? Do I go to church so I can feel good about my christian walk? Do I go to church solely relying on the experience I have there to change me? Ironically, I think it becomes really easy for the Sunday morning, Sunday night, Wednesday church goer to become stagnant in their faith. So, really, why do you go to church?

Friends

Court and I had a great time in New York. Even after being in such a big city I came back rejuvenated and refreshed. I don't think I would have come back feeling so, if it had not been for Mark and Kelly. Good friends have a way of doing that. No matter what situation you find yourself in, you can always find solace in those friendships. The Barneche's will be lifelong friends no matter where they live and they will always be a great encouragement to us. If you don't already have some you should find some friends like them. They are nice to have around.

A few of my favorites

Here is a few of my favorite pictures that I try and work into any kind of presentation I am doing. I don't do many, but when I do, these always get a laugh. I'm not sure who I feel like more often. The baby, G-daddy (that's right...I just called the president G-daddy), or the laughing ass (c'mon...it's biblical right).

1 Thessalonians Conclusion

So, last night I preached(still think it should be praught) a sermon on 1 Thessalonians and community. I was tired of trying to craft the perfect message so I threw out all of my notes. I wanted the spirit to work through me and convict us through the word and I'm pretty sure he did. What was really ironic about last night was a story that I told about not meeting my neighbor that just moved in. Well, I went home last night and Courtney and I were going to go for a walk. She was already outside waiting on me and when I came out, she was talking to our neighbor. Nice guy. His name is Phil and he has two daughters. I think God was trying to tell me something-love it when that happens.

1 Thessalonians Part 3

Here is a great passage to pray through for the church.
"Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you, and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints."
To often we pray for the growth of the church. We should pray that we grow in love for one another and for all. God will bring the increase if we are faithful to this calling.

1 Thessalonians Part 2

One reason I love this book is because Paul shows us his great love for the church. 2:8 "So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us." The imagery he provides in verse 7 is that of a nursing mother. Think of what an intimate bond Paul is conjuring up in our minds. I would argue this is one of the most tender, affectionate, passionate kinds love in the whole of human experience. Of course neither Paul nor I truly understand this, but ask any mother and I'm guessing they will tell you words cannot describe this bond. He continues with the parental illustration in 2:11. We, the church, should take this analogy and gain much wisdom from it. Some of us get annoyed with our parents. Some us wish we had different parents. Some of us had parents who didn't parent. Nevertheless, they continue to be our parents. The church is analogous to these facts. The church continues to be the church whether you are annoyed, wish it was different, or think it is not doing it's job-the gates of hell will not stop the church from being the bride of Christ. Paul, the most humble of pastors, loved the church to no end. He loved the church enough to be brutally honest and discipline it. He loved the church even with all of its annoying quirks and flaws. Let us take this great parental example from Paul and love the church even though we might have to deal with some annoying kids.

1 Thessalonians-A Book of Encouragement

Sure every church has its problems. The Thessalonian church had its problems too, but they were minor compared to others Paul had written to (Just read Galatians). Paul says of the Thessalonians in 4:9 "You have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another." 1:4-5 gives us another great insight into the Thessalonian church. "For we know brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction." That little phrase "loved by God" was only ascribed to the likes of Solomon and Moses in that day. Now, Paul uses it to describe the humble gentiles who have received the gospel with power, in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction of its truth and relevance. These few little verses tell me that weren't just studying what Paul had written them or what they had heard about the "Gospel" but actually carrying it out. They received the Gospel not only in word. This is a lesson my faith heritage would do well to learn. When we truly receive the gospel, we should be fully convicted of its truth. Meaning, that we ACT on our convictions. If you keep reading on to verses 7 and 8 you would find that the Thessalonians acted so much so on their convictions, that they "Became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia." Amazing! It wasn't their culturally relevant preacher, it wasn't their cool programs or engaging worship, it was their example and their faith! I pray that, as a church, it is our example of and faith in Christ that becomes known to all throughout the nations.

Emotional Labor

Yesterday I think I used up my emotional labor tank. Not a really long day at the office but after a full day of work, it's nice to come home and debrief a bit. As some of you know I give guitar lessons and on Tuesday's I have 3 after work. I love giving guitar lessons, don't get me wrong. I love seeing the small victories each student has and celebrating them, but these are hour long, emotional labor intensive sessions for me (Kate, if you read this, it has nothing to do with yesterday-ha! Really). After 3 lessons, I met Court to see some of our friends' new house they just bought. And then after stuffing my face with a calorie packed Carl's Jr. burger, I had a 3 hour long practice session for a gig I'm playing this weekend. This is not meant to be a sap story. Please don't hear that. I realize that many of you are just as busy or busier and this day is not a good representation of a normal day. However, my point is that emotional labor can be taxing. But, I believe, this is what holds our relationships together. The amount of energy you put into your relationships, and conversations, and interactions with people, will more than likely reflect what they give you back. I'm a bit of an extrovert so most of the time being around people infuses me with energy. But every once in a while, it's draining. I'm just glad I have a wife whom after I tell her that I had a draining day says, "We don't have to talk. I understand. Can I do anything for you?" Yeah, she's that awesome.

Love/Hate Blogs

I think that is how I would define my relationship with the blogs I read. I don't read that many, but the ones I do read are challenging and are constantly prodding me to be a better person and christian. Always prodding me to take the high road. I love the challenge, but at the same time its wearing. I have to say, Michael Mitchell's blog has tireless advice and wisdom on how to be a better man. That one has worn me out. About to make a decision...dangit...I should be a man and take the better road. If you want some other ones you can click here, or here (sometimes a bit crude, but great life advice, and awesome art). Any other ones you want to throw out, I would greatly appreciate it...I think.

Generational Differences

Last night Court and I had some really good honest conversation with some friends of ours (hadn't seen them in a while-it was great to catch up). I believe there is something God put in all of us to be authentic and have these refreshing and raw conversations. Now, I realize this statement may resonate with most of the readers here, but it's my parents and older generation who won't read that and think, "Yes, that's what the church is missing." I also realize that is an extremely large generalization (we all know people that age this rings true with). Much of the time I think or talk about generational differences in the church, I am often reminded of my generation's young idealism and border line naivety. However, this may be found to be true, in the back of my head I think, "Maybe we are actually right." Blasphemous I know. Honest, open, raw, authentic conversation is just one of the issues our generations may disagree on-there are countless others. I know, the post-modern thinker would probably say, "Why can't both be right?" I've often thought this myself, but I am reminded by a good friend of mine that our generation has ceased to "Draw lines in the sand." So back to my initial blasphemous thought. What if we are actually right? Then again, what if they are right about other issues? I hate being wrong. How is this reconciled? Some of these issues are causing our generation to leave the church. Unfortunately, this is a direct result of our no commitment, not brand loyal thinking. Think about some other generational issues you have come across. How have these issues played themselves out in your life/way of thinking?

Book Review and Giveaway-Switch!

Switch, by Dan and Chip Heath, is one of the most hopeful, informative books I have read in a while. The book is all about what goes into change-personal, corporate, national, and global. It is laced with stories about people that have inspired and carried out change to one level or another. If you are looking to change something, anything, in your personal life, family, business, or community, this is a great place to start. Of course this is not the end all on how to accomplish change, but it provides a great framework to get started and stay motivated. The stories in this book can't help but be retold. I found myself multiple times putting the book down, and asking Court to listen to a story I just read, almost every time receiving a genuine "Wow" in response. It is a must read. If you would like a free copy of the book, you can either retweet this blog post, e-mail me at waughbash15855@yahoo.com with "I want a book" in the title, or repost this link on your Facebook page (make sure and tag my name with the @ symbol). I will pick someone randomly by 4:00 tomorrow. Good luck!

Thoughts from the heart

I don't want this post to sound like a guilt trip. Just honest thoughts hoping to get you thinking about your own walk with Christ. I realized this morning that I don't really want to know Christ. I used to sing a song as a kid that was taken from Phil 3:10. Part of the lyrics went like this-"I want to know Christ and the power of his rising, share in his sufferings, conform to his death." The song is so happy and cheery that I honestly have never really thought about the words I was singing. "Share in his sufferings, conform to his death!" The actual scripture says, "Become like him in his death." When was the last time I thought, "I want to suffer the way Christ suffered. I'd like to die like he did." And the answer to that question scares me because it is a resounding "Never". But Paul is implying here, if we really want to know Christ, if we really want to know his heart, we must desire this. And I realized this morning, that I don't want that...really. I have never prayed to suffer as Christ suffered. That by any means possible, I want to know Christ. Listen to seriousness of those words, "By any means possible." I don't know if I truly believe that. As Paul wrote in Romans, "What a wretched man I am! Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!" Because it is only by his grace and mercy will I ever have a chance to truly know Christ.

Suffering Part 3

Here is one of the responses to yesterday's posting. This impacted me so much, I wanted to share it with you.

When we're suffering, we typically get on our knees and beg God to make it stop. In Acts 4, when the apostles were publically flogged for preaching the gospel, they went to church, got on their knees together, and prayed that God would make them even bolder and more courageous in their preaching. That blatant difference scares me for a variety of reasons.

But what if we tried something different? What if instead of praying for our sick to be healed, we prayed that God would help them be radiant exemplars of Christian hope and victory over death and dying? What if praying for the safety of our military, we prayed God would raise up missionaries to go into the most dangerous parts of the earth? What if instead of praying for God to end a particular struggle or suffering or persecution, we asked Him to help us to relate more to Christ and His sufferings (and maybe even asked Him not to turn down the heat until we do)? What if instead of asking God to make things easier for us to move around in the world, we asked Him to give us such courage that no obstacle, no matter how daunting, would stop us from going where He sends?

These are all such anti-cultural/anti-church (as in the modern church) ideas. This is so against everything that my flesh screams. And I think it is at the heart of what God wants for his people. God help us as we begin to suffer in a way that glorifies you.

Suffering Part 2

Most of my thoughts today come straight from 1 Peter. I think if it were a book today it might be named "How to Suffer Well-Always for the Sake of Doing Good". After reading this letter through, one could tell Peter has obviously experienced suffering. Peter also has an unwavering hope that all of his suffering was not in vain and ours won't be either...if done right. It is kind of funny writing on this subject because I haven't really suffered. I am so blessed to have a wife, a home, a great family, a job, food, clothing, and both sets of Grandparents still alive. Sure, I've experienced some difficult situations, but none as tough as the Christians Peter was writing to. I feel almost as if I am reviewing a movie that I haven't seen or a book I haven't read. But it is this fact scares/excites/motivates me. I would not by any means wish suffering upon myself or anyone else. I would much rather give God glory in preaching or in leading worship than through suffering. But, if that's what it takes for me to realize that I have nothing without God and cannot place my hope anywhere else, so be it. Peter goes so far to state that "We were called" to suffer for doing good. Put another way, it is God's will that we suffer for doing good. It is God's will that we suffer?! Furthermore, we must give glory to God when we do! I am scared for what God is going to call me to suffer through. I am scared it's going to be difficult. I am scared it is going to test my faith. So my prayer now is, when suffering does come, either for doing good or because creation is subjected to futility, I will give God all the glory for letting me be an instrument of his mercy.

Suffering

This week will begin a new series on suffering. As I wrote last week, I have been reading extensively through 1 Peter which is a letter all about suffering well for the sake of the Gospel. I recently read a blog by Tim Keller who stated the five things the local church needs to address and deal with in order to grow.

-Be in the business of Culture-making not culture following
-A renewal of apologetics
-A greater variety of church models
-Develop a far better theology of suffering
-A critical mass of churches in major cities around the world

I will attempt to tackle suffering this week and hope to get your thoughts on a few of the issues. Today I'll deal with the culture's thoughts on suffering.

Typically, Americans don't suffer well...here in the bible belt anyway (kind of ironic). Suffering of any kind is looked on not as a building of character or integrity, but as something no one in their life should ever experience. For most Americans, even after a natural disaster or terrorist attack, the idea of suffering angers us and causes Toby Keith to write lyrics like, "We'll put a boot in your a@# it's the American way". Suffering is viewed as unjust (more than likely it is), unfair, wrong and blameworthy. However, I don't disagree with any of those ideas, it is the way in which people react to the idea of suffering. People turn to the legal system and sue each other, they resort to irrational behavior and language and find anyway possible to blame whatever they are experiencing on someone or something else. The very definition of suffering has behind it the idea that one is undergoing something difficult. And to me, this screams the exact opposite of our microwavable, "Easy Button" culture. "Anything difficult...no thanks. I'll lie to my spouse, cheat on my taxes, and gossip about my so-called friends. That's easier. I'll avoid any chance that I might actually undergo something difficult." Suffering well is hard. It's not easy. It has caused countless Christians to lose their faith in God. What do you think? Has the church bought into the culture's idea that we should avoid suffering at all costs?

Bible Translations

I grew up reading the NIV. I really never knew anything different. However, the one thing I did know was that the KJV was outdated, sounded ridiculous, and was more difficult to read. Recently I have been listening to a few preachers that study and preach from the ESV (English Standard Version). So, I started reading it and the differences and nuances I found in it were so refreshing. The ESV is actually much closer to the actual Greek translation than the NIV. Let me give you an example. Caleb and Laura and I were reading through 1 John in preparation for LEGO groups this Sunday and the beginning of Chapter 3 reads like this in the NIV. "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" Here it is in the ESV. "See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God" The actual Greek reads this way, word for word. "See from what foreign origin the love has given to us the Father that children of God we should be called." The translation I just gave you would be considered the Interlinear-word for word in the Greek. The image at the bottom gives you most major translations and where they fall in relation to interlinear or thought for thought. What translation do you read?

Quiet Time 3

So many times I open the word of God and have no clue what to read or what I should read. I usually gauge what I am going to read by the number of times I have read a certain passage or by what I feel like I need to hear (so selfish). "Romans...nahh...don't really feel like reading about knowing what I should do and not doing it. James...don't really feel like reading about 'practical Christian living'. 1 John...I've been pretty loving lately...I feel like being encouraged. How about Philippians?" Even as selfish as I can be sometimes, God is always faithful and exposes in me something I really needed to hear, or builds up my spirit. Often times what I have found God is doing in me through his word is preparing for something to come. I'm a bit scared this week as I have been reading 1 Peter. If you haven't read through 1 Peter lately, it is all about suffering well for the sake of the gospel. I'm scared in that, God is shaping my thoughts, my emotions, and my heart for a time to come when this could be the case. I've read 1 Peter quite a few times, and as I am spending more and more time in silence with God, he continues to reveal his word to my heart in a new, exciting and scary way.

Quiet Time 2

As you might have guessed, I've already missed a couple of days-pretty pathetic. Why is that so difficult? What Christians consider the most important thing in life, the thing which we strive to give our life to, and I can't take 10 minutes out of my day to spend in thought about it! This morning I picked back up and spent my quiet time before I read-no commentaries, no podcasts, just me and the word of God. I was reminded of how precious this time is. I realized very quickly this morning that I have been so dependent on other people, commentaries, and others opinions to tell me about the words of God. This morning was so refreshing to let the Holy Spirit work in my heart and allow God to open my eyes to what he is doing in me.

Quiet Time

How often do you spend time in complete solace just listening? I think there is extreme value in this and it is something that I don't do nearly enough. This week I am going to make a much more concerted effort to turn off my cell phone, iPod, and computer and focus on listening to God this week. This is such a simple concept yet so difficult to do. One of the reasons I don't do it more often is that I am so accustomed to speaking to God and rely heavily on the words I have to say to Him. It's as if what I am going to say must be profound enough for Him to hear-as if he doesn't know what is on my heart anyway. I'm going to dedicate at least 15 minutes a day to trying this-I'll let you know how it goes.

The Big Red Tractor

What if the church actually did what we were charged with? We should stop being gaurds and start being gardeners. Let me know your thoughts on the video.

John 20

This may have been one of the most widely used passages yesterday at churches all over the world. I wanted to write a bit on it, because the story itself is so gripping. You can read it for yourself of course, but imagine the scene. Mary, sees the stone rolled away, goes to tell the others, Peter and John run to the tomb before Mary can go back, and by the time she gets back the others are gone. No matter how far away it is, she must have been exhausted from running, and overwhelmed with sorrow about what had happened. She looks into the tomb, sees and talks to two angels, and then she hears a voice. She must have looked back, and through her tears could not see who it was she was talking to, so she peers back into the tomb-hoping for some kind of answer, hoping there had been a mistake, hoping she could help the situation. And in-between her breaths of sobbing, she recognizes her savior's voice. The most comforting sound she had heard in over three days. The voice that provides the peace and comfort and safety we all long for. Wiping away her tears, her heart about to beat out of her chest, she turns with all joy and excitement and confusion and exclaims with the joy of a little child, "Teacher!". Hugging Jesus with all her might, never wanting to let go, Jesus pats her on the back and tells her she must go and tell the others-he is risen! One day, with joy of a child whose father is coming home from war, we will proclaim, "Teacher! Father!" How I long for the day when he wipes away the tears for eternity and says, "Well done faithful servant".

Confession

Fellowship with God, being closer to God, and knowing the nature of God is what we as Christians strive for. Sin is the one thing that keeps us from that. One of the only ways to deal with sin is to confess our sins to each other, sympathize with one another, and work out our salvation together with God’s help. But isn’t it ironic, that confessing our sins depends on us? In essence, the one thing that keeps us from fellowshipping with God is ourselves. However, this is one of the hardest things for us humans to do-to admit that we have something wrong. To admit, ultimately, that we are wrong. We like authority and control, and admitting that we sin and continue to struggle with sin, is admitting that we are not in control; that we cannot fix it ourselves. So, in the most basic form, sin is self-deception. We deceive ourselves into thinking that we can fix it or control it, when in reality the way in which God created us was for confession through others. If God created us for community and confession, why is this so difficult?

Wrapped Up

When I wrote those words, immediately the VBS song came to my head (If you don't know it, ask someone to demonstrate...in a very public place, I promise you it will be funny). I was studying Acts and realized they were wrapped up in something much bigger than you or I have ever experienced. That's what I long for the church to be wrapped up in again. A sense of urgency, of desperation, of absolute necessity to spread the gospel. Not only to spread the gospel, but to be sanctified through the blood of Jesus. However, we have come to a place in religion that says, "Just learn more about the Bible." Here's the deal-we have our mission, we know what to do, we know what God did, now we need to work on doing it. Like, really work on doing it. I want to be wrapped up in something so big, I actually would give my life for it. Cause if an opportunity came where I could, I'm not sure what my response would be. If the church really was "Wrapped up in Jesus", I wonder what it would like?

A note for worshipers

As I worship leader I hear a lot of requests, and compliments. I also hear a few complaints. I am blessed at Mayfair to not have many complaints at all. However, I was watching a video clip yesterday and was reminded of the true purpose of worship-to glorify God. I hope this isn't news to anyone but sometimes I feel like I need to remind people. People that say, "I didn't get anything out of that", or "I didn't like those songs/sermon". I want to reply, "I'm sorry, I didn't realize it was for you". So, the next time you feel the need to critique or complain, maybe you should critique your motives.

Acts 2

This is one of the most popular passages on what the 1st century church did, an amazing display of the Holy Spirit, and one of the most powerful gospel messages ever preached. One might think, Acts 2:38 is the crux of this chapter, but if that is so, I think we are missing the point. Acts 2:38 is the response or the result of Peter proclaiming the message of Christ in such a powerful way, people didn't know what to do! Bottom line-the Gospel doesn't need to be dressed up, dumbed down or messed with by culture. Here is the message Peter preached-"Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified." The rest of the book of Acts is a response to that message. How are we responding? Do our churches look like this? Our are people that crazy? I'm not quite sure we want it bad enough. Maybe some do, and aren't sure how to do it. Or, maybe it was just a good story to read.

Interesting facts about Acts

We are studying the book Acts in Ladies class and I did some background work on the book and here's some interesting stuff I didn't know.
1. The book is officially titled "Acts of the Apostles". However, there are only 3 apostles mentioned in the book and they are all out of the picture pretty early. Commentators suggest it should be called, "Acts of Apostolic People".
2. The book is split into two sections. The first section, 1-15:35, is a collection of stories that Luke compiled from a number of different sources (Silas, Timothy, Titus, Apollos, Lydia, Aquila, Barnabas, Philip, Peter, Mark and Paul. Obviously not an extensive list). The second section, 15:36-28, was written first hand by Luke. If you will notice, after 15:35 the "they" changes to "we".
3. The book was written to Theophilus. They are not sure who he was but here are some theories.
-Theophilus was not a real name. In the greek literally, Theos=God, and phileo=love. Maybe it was written to a "lover of God".
-Theophilus could have been a high-ranking government official whom Luke would have been a doctor for. It was rumored that Luke may have been his slave (it was common that doctors were slaves in the ancient world). Theophilus gave Luke his freedom for nursing him back to health and in return, the greatest gift Luke knew to give, was the gospel. Acts, was his gift.

A bit nerdy, but interesting.

2nd Peter

Here is your interesting bible fact for the week. 2 Peter made it into the New Testament only after much dispute and a few hundred years. No one even knew that Peter wrote a second letter until almost a century later! This may not sound like a big deal (and in the scheme of things, it's really not) but most of the 1st century churches never read this letter let alone didn't even know this letter existed. Generally, most of the 1st and 2nd century historians may have known about this letter but did not regard this as scripture. Finally, in the 4th century 2nd Peter was accepted into the New Testament. Just to throw another kink into the problem, Peter probably did not 2nd Peter. (Here's where you can check my research.) Someone else wrote it in the name of Peter thinking his name meant more at the time. Back then, this wasn't plagerism, it was an honor to have someone write in your name. Through all the chaos of deciding what got in to the bible and what didn't, I'm just glad God had a hand in all of it.

Letters

I was thinking the other day as I was rambling on to Court about something and had a new thought (this doesn't happen very often, I almost hurt myself). As I was thinking about the letters in the NT and all the different authors and all the different time periods, I realized that many of the 1st century churches may have never received or read any number of those letters. I wonder what implications that has for the church today? Don't crucify me just yet, let me clarify. For a long time we have looked at each of the NT letters as a comprehensive rule book, or a list of things not to do. And certainly there are some extremely important lessons to be learned from the mistakes they made. But if all the first century churches didn't get to see some of the letters written, what did they do? I have a feeling Acts 15 gives us a hint. It says, "It seemed good to us and the Holy Spirit". These people were arguing over some very serious doctrine and this was the answer they came up-"It seemed good". Not, "Here's what the Torah says". Not, "Here's what Jesus says, or what Moses did". They prayed about it, sought after the Holy Spirit and made a decision based on the information they already knew. I would be curious what our churches would look like if we did this more often; obviously not throwing out our core doctrine. However, we must be careful to discern what is tradition and what is doctrine. I wander what kind of letter Paul would write to our churches today? Whatever would be included in it, I hope we have better luck than the Galatians did.

What do you think Paul would include in his letter?

Opinions

Opinions are a tricky thing...or are they. Really, I am an expert on my own opinion. So are you. But, here's the tricky part. If I don't value your opinion, then it doesn't really matter what you think does it. If we are just a bunch of people spouting off our opinions and not really listening to anyone else, we have accomplished nothing. So, the next time you disagree with someone else's opinion, you should listen. They might actually be right.

A movement of God

"A movement of God can't be planned, but must be prepared for-Scott Hodge (Minister). I think way more often then not, I am not prepared for where God is leading me. This requires flexibility, a shift in thinking, constructive criticism, a change in actions...so many things that don't come easily. I know they are coming, eventually, cause they always do. However, I don't do anything to really prepare myself for them. I don't really have an answer for this difficult concept. Maybe it just requires us to listen closer. I don't really like that answer though because I feel like I'm trying. Sometimes I feel like I listen to long and to close and then I've missed where ever he's trying to lead me. Thoughts?

Courage

Courage is a difficult thing. It takes courage to do a lot of things. It takes courage to state your opinion when it isn't popular, it takes courage to stand up to your boss, it takes courage to speak in public and it takes courage to be a Christian. I read a great quote about courage from Michael Hyatt. "Courage is not the absence of fear, it is acting in spite of it." When was the last time you had to act in spite of your fears? When was the last time you knew what you had to do, didn't want to do it, and did anyway?

Isaiah

I am auditing a graduate class at OC on the book of Isaiah with Harold Shank. Our first class was last Tuesday but I can't wait til' tomorrow. The book of Isaiah is packed full of indications of the nature of God. This is why this book is so incredible. It is much of, God speaking through his prophet Isaiah to the people of Israel. The first 5 chapters are a little scary (you should read them). Listen to what Isaiah records in 5:25. Therefore the anger of the Lord was kindled against his people, and he stretched out his hand against them and struck them and the mountains quaked: and their corpses were as refuse in the midst of the streets. For all this his anger has not turned away, and his hand is stretched out still. And this is after the Israelites have been worshiping how God commanded them to worship! A bit scary when I think about my own tendencies to worship just because...that's what I've always done. These are extremely serious implications for God's people and what it means to really worship from the heart. I wonder what God would say about our meetings now?

Missional Renaissance-Shift 3

Here is the third and final shift-A shift from church-based leadership to kingdom-based leadership. This is what I am product of. My mind set recently has been to teach leaders how to lead small groups, get people involved in small groups, and make sure other ministries have enough people to function. All of those things are not bad but when I have neglected teaching them how to be real, spiritual, leaders, I have missed the point. Reggie uses the analogy of a movie director and producer. "Hollywood directors are project managers. They work with all phases and components of filmmaking to produce a movie. They are on the set during every scene. They are in the film lab during editing. They are everywhere. Producers play a different role. They find great stores, recruit talent, raise capital, negotiate with studios, and hire directors to bring ideas to life." You can clearly see the difference. This quote sums it up great. "Directors coach people into church roles to star in the movies the church leaders are making. Producers release missionaries into the movement by helping them create and star in their own movies." We have made church programs the point. Not all church programs are bad. But, when getting the most amount of people involved just to boost our involvement numbers is the point, we have missed the boat. The church needs to become more intentional in training spiritual leaders, not church people organizers. The way the current system functions, we are hoping that people become good spiritual leaders on their own. The church must be intentional about growing spiritual leaders for the kingdom. This requires being held accountable in a number of different ways, being honest about your own personal relationship with Christ and being open with other believers. I'm definitely not saying I have all the answers but I am excited to see where God takes the church in this next season. God bless us as we strive to be his bride.

Missional Renaissance-Shift 2

Shift number 2 is similar to the first one but a bit more specific-Program development to People Development. In my opinion, this may be the most important of the three. For a long time now the church has thought in this paradigm-"Get the largest amount of people we can to be involved with the most programs possible." Here is where this thought process breaks down...it doesn't work. A slew of research in the last few years is proving this is the case. Just because you are more involved than another member, does not mean...one, you are going to grow spiritually, and two, that you will develop relationships that facilitate said growth. Again, I'm not saying great things aren't happening or being accomplished in our programs and that people aren't growing spiritually. But I could almost bet the people that ARE growing spiritually or have deeper relationships are not doing it because of our programs. I also know, the people that ARE involved are BUSIER than the non-involved member. Most of the time church programs are focused on people inside the building organizing as a group and doing something. But you must remember this is outside of the set 3 hours a week we meet anyways. "Bible classes" are included in programs because, in most cases, a good bible class is based on how much information we can impart. The goal and intention is not spiritual growth. We might think it is, but don't most classes boil down to someone flexing their spiritual muscles for the rest of us? The church is in the business of developing spiritual nerds, not disciples.
Now, I don't want criticize without giving a solution. Here's how the scorecard changes.

-Less time "Bible classing" and more time mentoring.
-Less time using "spiritual" gifts we aren't sure we have, to spending time really finding out what those gifts are.
-Less time studying the word, and more time doing it...in the community, not in our building.
-Less time separating the family (youth group, adult bible classes, etc) and more time spent intentionally teaching the family to be a family.

Yes, this all seems so nebulous and intangible, but that in a nutshell is much of Christianity-intangible. Faith, love, trust, humility...you get the point. It is shocking to think we have kept score using everything tangible we can-attendance, involvement, money in the collection plate, all good things, but when they become the point, we have missed the point. Let's change people's hearts intentionally and stop hoping that a well put together Sunday morning will do it for them.

Missional Renaissance Series

Here is where my heart has been for the last few weeks. This book has changed my perspective on how we think about church. Indeed it has done what the subtitle reads-"Changing the Scorecard for the Church". Not that this book is the "end-all" on "how to do church", but the ideas and principles in this book are bigger than any church marketing or evangelism strategy. I firmly believe this is the direction the modern church must move for it survive. Yes...survive. So this week I would like to share with you a few of the principles in Missional Renaissance and offer some hope for the what church should and could look like in future generations.

There are 3 major "Missional Shifts" he talks about. The first one being a shift from internal to external ministry focus. Now, this sounds simple. And most of us would say, "Duh, that is the point of the church". I would wholeheartedly agree with that. But (and it's a big but), when you look at how the modern functions, more specifically, the way ministry is run inside of our churches, I think our actions show a bit differently.
Just to list a few
-3 hour long meetings a week to learn about the bible. We do this while hoping visitors come in and join our little clubs. Then, and only then, will we gladly welcome them with open arms.
-Most of our ministries and ministry leaders are trained to be focused internally. We have trained our leaders to be organizers OF the people in the church FOR the people in the church. (Baby shower ministry, Fellowship ministry, Men's and Women's ministry). All these are good things, but are they for internal or external purposes.
-Many of our Sunday morning worship times become "Which church has a better one, and who can present the gospel in the most creative way." Many times what happens, or doesn't happen, is dictated by the paying members in the pews (more often than not a few well paying club members at that).

I'm not saying that good isn't happening in our churches. I'm not saying that people aren't growing spiritually. But I am saying that present system that is "The church" is not working. With the time that we spend studying what to do, heaven forbid we carve some of that time out to go and do it! Let's stop worrying about how many people ARE in our pews and focus on how many people AREN'T in our pews. I have a lot more to say on this subject, but i think this post is long enough. More to come.

Reveal

Not sure if you guys heard about this or not, but there was a big study that Willow Creek did a few months ago called Reveal. Basically a few of the main conclusions were this.
-Church growth does not equal spiritual growth
-Member involvement does not equal spiritual growth
-The financial stability or healthiness of a church does not equal spiritual growth
(There was much more to the study but these were the main points)

Not terribly shocking to a lot of us, but terribly realistic. This is what our idea of church has become. How good our programs are, how many people we have in attendance, and how much money is accumulated every Sunday. If this is what we are concerned about (and our actions say that it is), then we simplified God's kingdom to a list of earthly standards. The current system that is church now, 3 hours a week at a building, only imparting knowledge about the bible in those 3 hours, and expecting to grow spiritually and become passionate about the message of the cross in 3 hours, will not sustain. Creating an open and honest community of believers is only part of what must happen. This community of believers must become the church to the people around them where those people are now. The church will not grow if we continue to be focused internally and not externally. Sure we all know we are supposed to be missionally minded, but what are the church's actions saying? "We meet 3 hours a week in a beautiful building, to learn about what we are supposed to be doing outside of these walls, and you need to come be a part of that." The first century church never once had a meeting on how to "market" the church, or be attractive to the community around them.
In your opinion, what direction does the church need be headed in? For the church to thrive as it once did, and as Christ's unadulterated bride, what does that look like?

Pulpit

I get a little nervous anytime I have the opportunity to speak in front of the church. I use to get nervous because I was afraid I was going to mess up or forget something I had written down. Now, I get nervous for what God is going to reveal to me in the text. The past few times I have spoken, I have gone in with some sort of preconception of what that specific scripture meant, and by the time I have finished praying and studying, God has torn down my preconceptions and said, "No, no, here's what I'm really telling you to do." So, broken and humbled, I pick back up the pieces and begin to look at scripture through the new lens He gave me-so refreshing. I'll finish with a question. What are the top 5 things you guys want to hear about from the pulpit? I would give you mine, but I don't want to be leading your answers.

New Year's Resolutions

I'm terrible at this. So, this year...I'm not going to fake myself out-I have none. Not saying they aren't great or that I have no ambition to be a better person, just don't like the letdown. Any for you? What's your take on resolutions?