What do you do when things don’t go as planned? All can recount times when we thought we were doing our best to move in God’s direction and life threw us a huge curve. We have been progressing in sincerity, prayer and earnest work and we meet with a dead-end. Either something has gone wrong with God’s leading or our expectations. What do you do? How do cope with the reality? Do you lose faith? Do you press forward harder into the wall? Or do you step back and try to revaluate the situation and learn something new that may be the reason God allowed the dead end. God has historically allowed His children to hit walls to teach lessons in faith, perseverance, growth and deliverance. Remember the descendants of Israel went from Egypt to the wall of the Red Sea before they were miraculously delivered.
Paul is another classic example in Philippians 1:12-18. He surrendered to preach, following God’s leadership, leaving a successful lifestyle and wound up in a Philippian jail. He had not committed a crime. His street preaching was stirring up problems for the locals who wanted to keep religion under their control. They had enough connections with the legal authorities to trump up charges to get him arrested. Not only was he taken off the streets where he was previously preaching but there were people who began preaching simply to keep things stirred to keep him in jail. The normal human response might be, “This is the thanks I get! Why try?” Paul was the same person who wrote that we know God’s will by having a renewed mind (Romans 12:2) so he was not used to thinking the same old way. When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change. Paul knew when God closes one door it is to lead you to open another. Remember who is in control of all eternity. God is working all things toward His purpose and that may not always be to your personal convenience at that moment. Paul knew it was not about him but God’s purpose. We become confused, defeated, discouraged if we look for what we think is best for us. In his human nature Paul could not be satisfied with being in chains (Not in his best interest). However, as a believer he had given over his interests to God’s purpose and that was to advance the Gospel. All believers are to deny self (ego) and follow Jesus (Luke 9:23). It is not about us!
With a changed way of looking at things, this became the ideal advancement. You see the most difficult task for street preacher is to keep people from walking away. Now as a prisoner Paul was surrounded by guards who could not leave. He had a captive audience. Immediately his situation had changed because his perspective had changed. He could preach long and hard and the guards had to stay and listen. When they were converted a shift change would bring a new audience. What a set up God had given him! God wanted revival among the Praetorian Guard so he had his best preacher arrested.
What about the work outside? God in control of that also, Paul’s preaching was an inspiration to other preachers so they began preaching and as far as those who preached from false motives? So what, Christ is still preached and that is what we wanted so they are actually helping the cause also. You can’t defeat God and His purpose. No matter the method, odds, or the motives God turns everything toward His eternal will. All through history He has turned Satan’s efforts into His victory. Herod tried to kill Jesus as a baby and God used that event to fulfill prophecy. Satan tried to tempt Jesus as an adult and this gave us insight to conquer temptation today. Satan thought he had Him on the cross but this gave salvation for whosoever places faith in Jesus.
If you want to turn things around get on God’s side. Change your way of looking at the situation. Stop thinking about how things affect you and your feelings. Turn your thinking around. Ask what can I do to accomplish His purpose here? When you change the way you look at things the things you look at change!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Sunday, August 24, 2008
What is God Teaching You?
God is always seeking to work in our lives to shape us more into the image of Christ. He seeks to teach us with relationships with other people, through His word and with situations and circumstances in our life.
Some situations and circumstances are out of our control and allowed by God to teach, shape, mold or mature us. In these situations and circumstances we can either:
- Learn and grow by adapting, changing and growing through those things that we cannot change.
- Deny, rebel and fight those things we cannot change insuring increasing unhappiness and despair.
Some situations and circumstances are the result of our own conscious or unconscious patterns of behavior. In those situations and circumstances we can either:
- Continue in those patterns that bring or enhance love, grace and joy to our lives and those we touch. Recognize and change behavior patterns that bring frustration, despair and discouragement. Behavior is learned. Therefore, behavior can be unlearned and changed. That is how we grow.
- Continue to repeat and recycle the same patterns and fail to learn and grow.
If you are not interested in learning, changing and growing you need not continue reading, however if you are interested in learning, changing and growing look ahead at the following questions and be honest with yourself. You may want to get a separate sheet of paper or two or even a trusted friend to help with the following:
- What do you think God is teaching you?
- Through recent events in your life?
- Through events of the past year?
- Through events of the past five years?
- What pattern(s) of behavior in your life do you see that bring fulfillment and joy?
- What pattern(s) of behavior in your life do you see that cause struggles, frustration and discouragement?
- Where do you see that you need to focus the most energy & effort on change?
- Where or to whom can you go to get help in these growth areas?
- When will you start?
Mission, Possible!
A frustrated pastor entered my office and said, “I don’t think my congregation respects my leadership.” I responded by asking him, “Where are you leading them?” There was a very long awkward silence as he gave me a ‘deer in the headlights look’ followed by, “What do you mean?” The rest of the visit was a delicate discussion where I tried to tactfully explain this truth; if you don’t know where you are going, you can’t lead and you certainly can’t expect people to respect or follow. Knowing where you are going is vital to everyone whether you are the lead dog or just one of the pack. Of course, as children of God there is no, “just one of the pack!” Each one of us is a unique creation of God. He tells us that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made” in Psalm 139. In the entire world and in all creation there has never been anyone like you. No matter what Shirley McLane tells us, we have not been here before, this is it and you are special!
Now that we have that established you need to realize that God created you with intention for a reason. He has a purpose for you. Rick Warren was not the first to realize this. Life is far too precious and brief to miss your purpose. Far too many people drift through life day after day hoping things will happen or wondering why they can never catch a break that others seem to catch. Others just seem to exist. What a tragic way to spend the precious fragile gift that only God can give us. So, how does one avoid the dilemma of the pastor I introduced to begin this article? It can be very helpful to write a personal mission statement. When we put something in writing it means we have given it thought and intention rather than just ‘wishing’ it so. Creating a written document gives direction, foundation and focus. The U.S. Constitution is our written foundation. We continually refer to that document to keep us focused and keep us on track as a nation.
A mission statement can be simple or it can have a beginning statement with other refinements giving clarity. They can evolve and be fluid as your life changes and matures. The point is to move through life with purpose rather than drifting and then looking back with regret. My personal mission statement is this: My mission is to know Christ and make Him known. This is a simple, yet to me, profound, way to express a way to give intention to all I do as a husband, father and child of God. All activities evolve out of these principles.
I accomplish my mission by:
- daily by learning, understanding and becoming acquainted with Him through prayer, reading and study of the Bible, as well as other books and occasions to better know Him,
- sharing Him in word and deed in all my actions first at home with my relationship with my wife and family, then with all I encounter
- and finally my mission is to make Him known by reflecting His truth and nature as I live abundantly in all I do.
This gives me a proper foundation, purpose, integrity and fullness on a daily basis. Give it some thought. You have a purpose. You have a mission. This is your life make the most of it!
Friday, August 15, 2008
"I tried as hard as I could"
I have always been a sports fan. In July of 2005 I witnessed retirement for two athletes, the likes of whom we may never see again. Lance Armstrong won his 7th consecutive Tour de France. Before Lance, the previous record was 5. It is mind-boggling to think of racing a bicycle up French mountains and country roads for over 2,200 miles, especially for a cancer survivor. Lance inspires us to ‘Live Strong and ‘Never give up’!
I think of believers in Christ, who should be people of eternal hope and joy, after all we are the resurrection people, but many become discouraged wanting to give up. I think of preachers become comfortable with less than their best effort. Then I see Lance pushing on. He won 7 tours by winning one at a time. He won by competing as hard as he could each day, one pedal at a time. Don’t get overwhelmed or lazy and let discouragement defeat you. The mountain is climbed one step at a time. Wasn’t it Jesus who said, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”?
Jack Nicklaus retired from competitive golf with a birdie on the 18th hole at St. Andrews, the home of Golf, in the British Open. Most fans expected him to make the putt. No it was not for the championship trophy as in days of his glory and youth but he tried as if it were. That was how he played and lived. He won more major tournaments than anyone in golf history. He influenced golf as much, if not more, than anyone in history. But that’s not why I watched that final putt.
Jack has long been known as a devout family man. In spite of demands from golf and business his family is his priority. Recently, upon receiving the ‘Sportsman of the Century’ award, he took the stage before an auditorium filled with successful celebrities and athletes, as well as a TV audience of millions, and said his greatest accomplishment was seated on the front row. He smiled at his first (and only) wife and five children. They smiled back as the greatest sportsman in 100 years acknowledged his family as his accomplishment.
In one of the numerous interviews given by Jack Nicklaus, I believe one quote sums up his life philosophy and offers inspiration. He said that he always “tried as hard as he could” no matter what he did. As a husband, father, in golf, business or whatever, he tried as hard as he could. He gave all his best effort.
I Corinthians 10:31 says it this way, “Whether you eat, drink or whatever, do it all to the glory of God”. I figure if Lance can put forth that kind of effort to ride a bike and Jack can do it to roll a ball into a hole in the ground, why can’t I give my best for a savior who gave it all for me? Give it your best. Eternity is worth it!
I think of believers in Christ, who should be people of eternal hope and joy, after all we are the resurrection people, but many become discouraged wanting to give up. I think of preachers become comfortable with less than their best effort. Then I see Lance pushing on. He won 7 tours by winning one at a time. He won by competing as hard as he could each day, one pedal at a time. Don’t get overwhelmed or lazy and let discouragement defeat you. The mountain is climbed one step at a time. Wasn’t it Jesus who said, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”?
Jack Nicklaus retired from competitive golf with a birdie on the 18th hole at St. Andrews, the home of Golf, in the British Open. Most fans expected him to make the putt. No it was not for the championship trophy as in days of his glory and youth but he tried as if it were. That was how he played and lived. He won more major tournaments than anyone in golf history. He influenced golf as much, if not more, than anyone in history. But that’s not why I watched that final putt.
Jack has long been known as a devout family man. In spite of demands from golf and business his family is his priority. Recently, upon receiving the ‘Sportsman of the Century’ award, he took the stage before an auditorium filled with successful celebrities and athletes, as well as a TV audience of millions, and said his greatest accomplishment was seated on the front row. He smiled at his first (and only) wife and five children. They smiled back as the greatest sportsman in 100 years acknowledged his family as his accomplishment.
In one of the numerous interviews given by Jack Nicklaus, I believe one quote sums up his life philosophy and offers inspiration. He said that he always “tried as hard as he could” no matter what he did. As a husband, father, in golf, business or whatever, he tried as hard as he could. He gave all his best effort.
I Corinthians 10:31 says it this way, “Whether you eat, drink or whatever, do it all to the glory of God”. I figure if Lance can put forth that kind of effort to ride a bike and Jack can do it to roll a ball into a hole in the ground, why can’t I give my best for a savior who gave it all for me? Give it your best. Eternity is worth it!
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Too Much Church?
I recently turned 56 (you don’t celebrate, you turn 56. Later I will hit 60, hopefully, and after that who knows, but that is another article.). I tell people I have been attending church for 56 years and 9 months. I have attended churches around the globe and have discovered that we (self included) church people can be quite strange at times. When we focus on Jesus, which is the point, we are at our best. When we focus too much on church we can have some problems. Years ago Stephen Covey shared some interesting thoughts in his popular book '7 Habits of Highly Effective People' about people who become too centered on church. He shares the following thoughts:
“I believe that almost anyone who is seriously involved in any church will recognize that churchgoing is not synonymous with personal spirituality. There are some people who get so busy in church worship and projects that they become insensitive to the pressing human needs that surround them, contradicting the very precepts they profess to believe deeply. There are others who attend church less frequently or not at all but whose attitudes and behavior reflect a more genuine centering in the principles of the basic Judeo-Christian ethic.
Having participated throughout my life in organized church and community service group, I have found that attending church does not necessarily mean living the principles taught in those meetings. You can be active in a church but inactive in its gospel.
In the church-centered life, image or appearance can become a person’s dominant consideration, leading to hypocrisy that undermines personal security and intrinsic worth. Guidance comes from a social conscience, and the church-centered person tends to label others artificially in terms of “active”, “inactive”, “liberal”, “orthodox” or “conservative”.
Because the church is a formal organization made up of policies, programs, practices, and people, it cannot by itself give a person any deep, permanent security or sense of intrinsic worth. Living the principles taught by the church can do this, but the organization alone cannot.
Nor can the church give a person a constant sense of guidance. Church-centered people often tend to live in compartments, acting and thinking and feeling in certain ways on the Sabbath and in totally different ways on weekdays. Such a lack of wholeness or unity or integrity is a further threat to security, creating the increased labeling and self-justifying.
Seeing the church as an end rather than as a means to an end undermines a person’s wisdom and sense of balance. Although the church claims to teach people about the source of power, it does not claim to be that power itself. It claims to be one vehicle through which divine power can be channeled into man’s nature.”
While you may not agree with all he says, I hope it will stir you thoughts but more than anything else I hope you will agree, as I stated in beginning; when we focus on Jesus, which is the point, we are at our best!
“I believe that almost anyone who is seriously involved in any church will recognize that churchgoing is not synonymous with personal spirituality. There are some people who get so busy in church worship and projects that they become insensitive to the pressing human needs that surround them, contradicting the very precepts they profess to believe deeply. There are others who attend church less frequently or not at all but whose attitudes and behavior reflect a more genuine centering in the principles of the basic Judeo-Christian ethic.
Having participated throughout my life in organized church and community service group, I have found that attending church does not necessarily mean living the principles taught in those meetings. You can be active in a church but inactive in its gospel.
In the church-centered life, image or appearance can become a person’s dominant consideration, leading to hypocrisy that undermines personal security and intrinsic worth. Guidance comes from a social conscience, and the church-centered person tends to label others artificially in terms of “active”, “inactive”, “liberal”, “orthodox” or “conservative”.
Because the church is a formal organization made up of policies, programs, practices, and people, it cannot by itself give a person any deep, permanent security or sense of intrinsic worth. Living the principles taught by the church can do this, but the organization alone cannot.
Nor can the church give a person a constant sense of guidance. Church-centered people often tend to live in compartments, acting and thinking and feeling in certain ways on the Sabbath and in totally different ways on weekdays. Such a lack of wholeness or unity or integrity is a further threat to security, creating the increased labeling and self-justifying.
Seeing the church as an end rather than as a means to an end undermines a person’s wisdom and sense of balance. Although the church claims to teach people about the source of power, it does not claim to be that power itself. It claims to be one vehicle through which divine power can be channeled into man’s nature.”
While you may not agree with all he says, I hope it will stir you thoughts but more than anything else I hope you will agree, as I stated in beginning; when we focus on Jesus, which is the point, we are at our best!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Did Jesus Gripe?
They seem to be everywhere. They gripe and complain about everything. They find fault at every turn in life. You see them on the news griping and complaining about having to wait in lines for food, water or gas after a hurricane. I am amazed at how easy they complain and never once consider those who died or lost loved ones just a few hours earlier in the same storm who would gladly stand in the line had not that same storm taken their lives. I realize that there are many more who do realize the grace bestowed on them and express gratitude whenever possible. Those are the ones whom unquestionably reflect the light of Christ. But, what about those complainers? They taste food (not their own cooking) and it is not flavored or seasoned to suit their palate. They watch sports but the athletes and coaches (who are playing and coaching a game at a level beyond their abilities) never perform at a level that pleases them. No one ever drives as well as he or she does. No one at the work place knows what to do as well as they do. However, they are rarely ever promoted to the area of responsibility to fix those things that they know more about than everyone else. So, they just gripe and complain at every turn. And they go to church! Goodness knows they go to church! That is where they ‘enjoy’ most of their griping and complaining. And make no mistake about it. This is a lifestyle that they choose and have developed a warped sense of enjoyment, which will be discussed in more detail later.
There is something that one needs to experience to know the full understanding of studying all week to prepare a Gospel message to deliver eternal truth that may effect the eternal destiny of a listener. Then internalizing the message to communicate it in a manner with few notes as to communicate it in a conversational manner to keep the attention of the listener so they will hear and understand eternal truth. After taking hours to do the former one then stands and delivers that message, live, in front of a large audience as well as they possibly can with every intention of making sure that eternity will matter for the listener. There are few experiences on this planet like having the first person rush up to you after such preparation and delivery and say (speaking the truth in love, in their mind); “Pastor, you had a double negative in your first sentence!” I guess we all get what we come for when we go to church.
Jesus was God in flesh. Being fully human he had the complete range of human emotion. Jesus wept. John 11:35 is everyone’s reminder of the shortest verse in the Bible. The second shortest verse is I Thessalonians 5:16, the command to, “Rejoice always” but that is another message. Jesus was angry, (all four gospels record anger when he saw people using the temple for personal gain) but he did not sin. Anger is a proper human emotion. We should be angry at such things as abortion, child and spousal abuse and any evil behavior. But our anger should always be channeled toward righteous redemptive reforming action and never sin. Jesus laughed. Although there is no single verse that points to Jesus laughing, I am certain He did. Children always were attracted to Jesus. Have you ever seen children running to play with a sourpuss? Jesus was (and still is) fun to be with!
Jesus showed us all the human emotion and behavior we should model and copy and those He never demonstrated should never be practiced by us. Jesus never worried. Jesus was never afraid. He always had complete trust in the Father. Again, these are all other messages. At this moment I want to address the fact that Jesus NEVER griped or complained. And believe me, if anyone had a platform for a complaint, Jesus with His transition from Heaven’s throne to the poverty stricken life of suffering that led to the cross He endured for our sin, could have an excuse for a note in the suggestion box of live but He bore it all and scorned the shame without complaining, making excuses or griping.
It is easier to find fault than to be positive. That is one reason so many choose that pathway. It is the way of least resistance.
There is something that one needs to experience to know the full understanding of studying all week to prepare a Gospel message to deliver eternal truth that may effect the eternal destiny of a listener. Then internalizing the message to communicate it in a manner with few notes as to communicate it in a conversational manner to keep the attention of the listener so they will hear and understand eternal truth. After taking hours to do the former one then stands and delivers that message, live, in front of a large audience as well as they possibly can with every intention of making sure that eternity will matter for the listener. There are few experiences on this planet like having the first person rush up to you after such preparation and delivery and say (speaking the truth in love, in their mind); “Pastor, you had a double negative in your first sentence!” I guess we all get what we come for when we go to church.
Jesus was God in flesh. Being fully human he had the complete range of human emotion. Jesus wept. John 11:35 is everyone’s reminder of the shortest verse in the Bible. The second shortest verse is I Thessalonians 5:16, the command to, “Rejoice always” but that is another message. Jesus was angry, (all four gospels record anger when he saw people using the temple for personal gain) but he did not sin. Anger is a proper human emotion. We should be angry at such things as abortion, child and spousal abuse and any evil behavior. But our anger should always be channeled toward righteous redemptive reforming action and never sin. Jesus laughed. Although there is no single verse that points to Jesus laughing, I am certain He did. Children always were attracted to Jesus. Have you ever seen children running to play with a sourpuss? Jesus was (and still is) fun to be with!
Jesus showed us all the human emotion and behavior we should model and copy and those He never demonstrated should never be practiced by us. Jesus never worried. Jesus was never afraid. He always had complete trust in the Father. Again, these are all other messages. At this moment I want to address the fact that Jesus NEVER griped or complained. And believe me, if anyone had a platform for a complaint, Jesus with His transition from Heaven’s throne to the poverty stricken life of suffering that led to the cross He endured for our sin, could have an excuse for a note in the suggestion box of live but He bore it all and scorned the shame without complaining, making excuses or griping.
It is easier to find fault than to be positive. That is one reason so many choose that pathway. It is the way of least resistance.
Who Speaks for God?
“God told me...” is a phrase that is frequently heard in the Christian community. “I feel led...” or “I have been praying and I have a peace about...” are also popular phrases. All too often they mean, “This is how I want to obtain MY mandate!” When I hear someone say “God told me…” I like to tease and ask “What did His voice sound like when He told you? I always thought he would sound like James Earl Jones or have an English accent was I correct? Or when they say they were “feeling led” I like to ask, “was that similar to the sensation you feel when you bite into a peppermint patty?” You can tell why I am not invited to a lot of parties.
I am also not too impressed when someone has a “sense of peace” about doing something even if it is a result of prayer. Even a two-year old has peace when they get their own way. Leaders of cults pray and gain peace from the lack of a conscience more than real direction from God. The peace of God, from prayer, is affirmed by scripture, prayer, circumstances and the church, not simply the whim or feeling of a single individual.
I don’t diminish the fact that God speaks and leads. He does! Nor do I discount the importance of prayer in seeking God’s direction. It is essential, when done properly. However, I am incredulous when those or similar phrases are used for the advancement of a personal agenda, idea or desire. Call me a skeptic but when anyone claims a direct word from God as if they just got off the phone with Him, I worry. Claiming a word from God or wrapping God around personal desires should always stir caution.
Declaring a word from God is serious business. The famous preacher of England, C. H. Spurgeon, said he “trembled” lest he should misinterpret the Word. Our Biblical forefathers also had a high view of God’s holy voice. It should never be used lightly or to promote a political or personal agenda, idea or desire.
So, how does one know what God is saying or to whom God is speaking or leading? Who does speak for God? You see, God still speaks quite nicely and clearly for Himself through His Word, the Bible. Henry Blackaby said it well in Experiencing God; “God speaks by the Holy Spirit through the Bible, prayer, circumstances, and the church to reveal Himself, His purposes, and His ways.” It is our task to be in a church, to pray, read, study and obey what He has already said rather than claim or look for a new word. Don’t be fooled. Get into God’s Word and into a fellowship of Bible teaching believers. That is where He still speaks and leads most clearly! So, who Speaks for God? He does quite well for Himself!
I am also not too impressed when someone has a “sense of peace” about doing something even if it is a result of prayer. Even a two-year old has peace when they get their own way. Leaders of cults pray and gain peace from the lack of a conscience more than real direction from God. The peace of God, from prayer, is affirmed by scripture, prayer, circumstances and the church, not simply the whim or feeling of a single individual.
I don’t diminish the fact that God speaks and leads. He does! Nor do I discount the importance of prayer in seeking God’s direction. It is essential, when done properly. However, I am incredulous when those or similar phrases are used for the advancement of a personal agenda, idea or desire. Call me a skeptic but when anyone claims a direct word from God as if they just got off the phone with Him, I worry. Claiming a word from God or wrapping God around personal desires should always stir caution.
Declaring a word from God is serious business. The famous preacher of England, C. H. Spurgeon, said he “trembled” lest he should misinterpret the Word. Our Biblical forefathers also had a high view of God’s holy voice. It should never be used lightly or to promote a political or personal agenda, idea or desire.
So, how does one know what God is saying or to whom God is speaking or leading? Who does speak for God? You see, God still speaks quite nicely and clearly for Himself through His Word, the Bible. Henry Blackaby said it well in Experiencing God; “God speaks by the Holy Spirit through the Bible, prayer, circumstances, and the church to reveal Himself, His purposes, and His ways.” It is our task to be in a church, to pray, read, study and obey what He has already said rather than claim or look for a new word. Don’t be fooled. Get into God’s Word and into a fellowship of Bible teaching believers. That is where He still speaks and leads most clearly! So, who Speaks for God? He does quite well for Himself!
What Does China Know?
The recent Olympics saw President Bush make a public visit and statement to a church in China. This was, like all Chinese events, very controlled as this was a church that was registered with the Chinese government. The real spiritual movement in China is flourishing with the house churches that the government is aware of but does not control. Even the paranoid Chinese government cannot control the Holy Spirit. This event reminded me of an old article I penned when our president visited China in 2005.
I am again reminded of the way God desires us to unite beyond all the restrictions that governments, prejudice and even religion seeks to separate us. When we seek that which we have in common, which can be found in the love of Christ, rather than that which we have that can divide us we can do so much to better the world in which we live and reflect that love of the God in whose image we are created. The article was written to encourage churches to come together but it makes the point that all of us should find reasons to unite in love.
What Does China Know That Can Help Us?
Dr. Bill Drees
It was a typical Sunday evening in November, 2005; I was recently making my way to one of the fifty churches that make up the Kershaw Baptist Association which I have the privilege to serve. I was listening to PBS on the radio when the story suddenly caught my attention. They were discussing matters brought to attention by the President’s recent trip to a government-sanctioned church in China. The discussion turned to the underground church that is flourishing in China. The Chinese government is one of the most oppressive governments in the world yet they are aware of the growth of the underground church. The next remark by the reporter got the attention of this old DoM. “As long as the underground churches remain independent and do not form associations, the government does not fear their power”. I couldn’t turn my radio up fast enough! What? Could it be that the Chinese government better understands what we have been trying to get our own pastors and churches to grasp? There is power when churches come together and form associations!
To those who ask; “Do we need associations today?” If China does not fear our military or economic power yet fears churches coming together to form associations, that should tell you something about the power of associations. When the body of Christ comes together in a community, county, state and nation …well, isn’t that what we preach about? Yet, too often we try to do it as ‘lone ranger’ congregations and pastors. I meet with and talk with DoM’s from our state and all over the nation and find similar situations. Pastors and churches are so busy doing individual ministry that they often fail to know and see the advantages of coming together as a local association, state convention or denomination.
It is frightening how often I encounter church members and pastors who do not realize the resources that they already have at their disposal as a member of the association. I wish more of our pastors and churches knew more about who we are as Southern Baptists and how we really function with associations and denominations. It will make them proud. It is also amazing how much more we could all do if we would take full advantage of the very thing that the Chinese government fears. We have the freedom to come together; pool resources (as Paul did with churches in the New Testament, we didn’t invent this idea) to reach out in ministry and evangelism in a way that none of us can do individually. Yet, while we have this freedom we rarely take full advantage of the opportunity to get together and truly marshal our forces in Kingdom ministry.
We have good participation from most of our churches, but I could not help hearing that radio broadcast proclaiming the threat and fear that churches forming into associations caused the Chinese government and I wondered, “How much more could we threaten and strike fear into the heart of the enemy if we really came together as fifty churches with one heart and mind?” Isn’t that what Jesus prayed in Gethsemane so the world would know God sent Him (John 17:21)? Do we still need a local association of churches today? I still think our heavenly Father likes to distribute power through us coming together in that fashion. I don’t think the Chinese government fears the power of an association of churches for nothing. Think we can learn from them? We still have that freedom to come together in a powerful way, wouldn’t it be a shame not to take full advantage of what we already have?
I am again reminded of the way God desires us to unite beyond all the restrictions that governments, prejudice and even religion seeks to separate us. When we seek that which we have in common, which can be found in the love of Christ, rather than that which we have that can divide us we can do so much to better the world in which we live and reflect that love of the God in whose image we are created. The article was written to encourage churches to come together but it makes the point that all of us should find reasons to unite in love.
What Does China Know That Can Help Us?
Dr. Bill Drees
It was a typical Sunday evening in November, 2005; I was recently making my way to one of the fifty churches that make up the Kershaw Baptist Association which I have the privilege to serve. I was listening to PBS on the radio when the story suddenly caught my attention. They were discussing matters brought to attention by the President’s recent trip to a government-sanctioned church in China. The discussion turned to the underground church that is flourishing in China. The Chinese government is one of the most oppressive governments in the world yet they are aware of the growth of the underground church. The next remark by the reporter got the attention of this old DoM. “As long as the underground churches remain independent and do not form associations, the government does not fear their power”. I couldn’t turn my radio up fast enough! What? Could it be that the Chinese government better understands what we have been trying to get our own pastors and churches to grasp? There is power when churches come together and form associations!
To those who ask; “Do we need associations today?” If China does not fear our military or economic power yet fears churches coming together to form associations, that should tell you something about the power of associations. When the body of Christ comes together in a community, county, state and nation …well, isn’t that what we preach about? Yet, too often we try to do it as ‘lone ranger’ congregations and pastors. I meet with and talk with DoM’s from our state and all over the nation and find similar situations. Pastors and churches are so busy doing individual ministry that they often fail to know and see the advantages of coming together as a local association, state convention or denomination.
It is frightening how often I encounter church members and pastors who do not realize the resources that they already have at their disposal as a member of the association. I wish more of our pastors and churches knew more about who we are as Southern Baptists and how we really function with associations and denominations. It will make them proud. It is also amazing how much more we could all do if we would take full advantage of the very thing that the Chinese government fears. We have the freedom to come together; pool resources (as Paul did with churches in the New Testament, we didn’t invent this idea) to reach out in ministry and evangelism in a way that none of us can do individually. Yet, while we have this freedom we rarely take full advantage of the opportunity to get together and truly marshal our forces in Kingdom ministry.
We have good participation from most of our churches, but I could not help hearing that radio broadcast proclaiming the threat and fear that churches forming into associations caused the Chinese government and I wondered, “How much more could we threaten and strike fear into the heart of the enemy if we really came together as fifty churches with one heart and mind?” Isn’t that what Jesus prayed in Gethsemane so the world would know God sent Him (John 17:21)? Do we still need a local association of churches today? I still think our heavenly Father likes to distribute power through us coming together in that fashion. I don’t think the Chinese government fears the power of an association of churches for nothing. Think we can learn from them? We still have that freedom to come together in a powerful way, wouldn’t it be a shame not to take full advantage of what we already have?
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Discuss, Decide then Support
Religious people can be a strange bunch. I can say that from experience attending churches since I was conceived. I turned 56 in June. I tell people I have been attending church since I was 56 plus nine months. In other words I grew up in church. I have served as a pastor for 20 years with ministry experience in four different states. I am in my 10th year as a Director of Missions serving 50 different congregations and I have preached on 5 different continents. I have been in so many churches I am surprised a steeple is not growing out of my bald spot. However, I am still often dumfounded at the way we do our business.
We seem to specialize on reasons to disagree. Jesus prayed (John 17:20-26) for us to be “one so the world would know the Father sent Him.” But, we stay so divided that they stay away as if we had rabies rather than the message of eternal life. We are often so afraid of change and fear new thoughts or ideas as if the truth could be threatened by something new. Our culture or surrounding world (which is our mission field) changes regularly however, two things never change; the Gospel and mankind’s need for that Gospel. Our task is to get into the changing culture with that timeless Gospel that meets the needs of today’s culture, like sprinkling salt onto food to change the flavor, to borrow an old teaching from a wise man.
Traditions and ways of the past are often guarded as if they were sacred or military secrets. Once a deacon asked me, “If I disagree with you, as my pastor, do you think I am led by Satan?” I responded, “Heavens no! I welcome civil disagreement. Anyone seeking truth seeks other opinions and if they point to truth, he leaves his old ideas and follows truth.” My way or the highway people with personal ego and agenda become threatened when challenged.
Jerry Porras writes in Success Built to Last: Creating a Life That Matters of successful businesses having “naked conversations” where things are openly discussed in such a manner that outsiders would think they are fighting. Even the CEO will allow employees to freely disagree with him because they know they all have the same goal; the best product. They discuss, decide, then unite and support a decision that helps the company because it mutually benefits all. This is valuable for moral and the bottom line as all work together for the common good.
Too often we see personal ego get in the way in church to the point that we discuss, argue and if I don’t get my way I won’t go along. We divide, hide, isolate when we should come together more than anyone else. After all we really do have the best ‘product’, salvation. When we unite and are open with our discussion and work all receive the rewards, which are eternal.
We seem to specialize on reasons to disagree. Jesus prayed (John 17:20-26) for us to be “one so the world would know the Father sent Him.” But, we stay so divided that they stay away as if we had rabies rather than the message of eternal life. We are often so afraid of change and fear new thoughts or ideas as if the truth could be threatened by something new. Our culture or surrounding world (which is our mission field) changes regularly however, two things never change; the Gospel and mankind’s need for that Gospel. Our task is to get into the changing culture with that timeless Gospel that meets the needs of today’s culture, like sprinkling salt onto food to change the flavor, to borrow an old teaching from a wise man.
Traditions and ways of the past are often guarded as if they were sacred or military secrets. Once a deacon asked me, “If I disagree with you, as my pastor, do you think I am led by Satan?” I responded, “Heavens no! I welcome civil disagreement. Anyone seeking truth seeks other opinions and if they point to truth, he leaves his old ideas and follows truth.” My way or the highway people with personal ego and agenda become threatened when challenged.
Jerry Porras writes in Success Built to Last: Creating a Life That Matters of successful businesses having “naked conversations” where things are openly discussed in such a manner that outsiders would think they are fighting. Even the CEO will allow employees to freely disagree with him because they know they all have the same goal; the best product. They discuss, decide, then unite and support a decision that helps the company because it mutually benefits all. This is valuable for moral and the bottom line as all work together for the common good.
Too often we see personal ego get in the way in church to the point that we discuss, argue and if I don’t get my way I won’t go along. We divide, hide, isolate when we should come together more than anyone else. After all we really do have the best ‘product’, salvation. When we unite and are open with our discussion and work all receive the rewards, which are eternal.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Listen Carefully
“You can hear a lot by just listening.” I think Yogi Berra said that, if not it sounds like one of his but the problem I wish to discuss comes from the fact that lately not too many of us really seem to be listening. As a professional speaker, well I have been paid for it, I am careful to listen to myself and others. I am often amazed by what I hear and how others seem unaffected by what I think should get us riled up.
Some of it is the stuff that causes my wife to wish I would go in the other room when I critique the TV announcers. Why do they have to say “First-ever”? Isn’t that redundant? Sportscasters speak of “good speed”. Then is bad speed’ better than slow? Now I admit that these are just things that irritate a perfectionist but there are better examples that have more lasting and serious consequences.
In this political season we should listen carefully to what is said and what is not said as our countries’ future is at stake. Politicians are masters at avoiding the question and making one think they gave an answer. Just because they are smooth talkers does not mean they will be the best for the job. TV personalities sound impressive and even spiritual as they speak of “following one’s own truth” or finding “your inner truth” however, none of this is Biblically based. In fact the Bible speaks of following Jesus as truth and your inner truth is sinful. So be careful.
More importantly are those who speak from pulpits. As one who will be judged for what he says I am very careful and invite the audience to listen and correct me when I am in error. That is why I took no shortcuts in education and study and continue to do so. Eternity hangs in the balance. I am constantly amazed at what I hear and people sit and nod approvingly.
Just because they have a great delivery, an impressive church, large following, deep voice, TV studio, great hair (that lets me out) or any or all of the above does not necessarily mean they are sharing the truth. Remember Jesus did not have an impressive production from a stadium or mega-church but when he spoke “the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not at their teachers of the law. (Matthew 7:28-29). We still do well to listen to him.
Some of it is the stuff that causes my wife to wish I would go in the other room when I critique the TV announcers. Why do they have to say “First-ever”? Isn’t that redundant? Sportscasters speak of “good speed”. Then is bad speed’ better than slow? Now I admit that these are just things that irritate a perfectionist but there are better examples that have more lasting and serious consequences.
In this political season we should listen carefully to what is said and what is not said as our countries’ future is at stake. Politicians are masters at avoiding the question and making one think they gave an answer. Just because they are smooth talkers does not mean they will be the best for the job. TV personalities sound impressive and even spiritual as they speak of “following one’s own truth” or finding “your inner truth” however, none of this is Biblically based. In fact the Bible speaks of following Jesus as truth and your inner truth is sinful. So be careful.
More importantly are those who speak from pulpits. As one who will be judged for what he says I am very careful and invite the audience to listen and correct me when I am in error. That is why I took no shortcuts in education and study and continue to do so. Eternity hangs in the balance. I am constantly amazed at what I hear and people sit and nod approvingly.
Just because they have a great delivery, an impressive church, large following, deep voice, TV studio, great hair (that lets me out) or any or all of the above does not necessarily mean they are sharing the truth. Remember Jesus did not have an impressive production from a stadium or mega-church but when he spoke “the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not at their teachers of the law. (Matthew 7:28-29). We still do well to listen to him.
Labels are Best on Soup Cans
I couldn’t believe my ears. I was accused of labeling a pastor with one of those popular names that describes a certain theological viewpoint. For those who really know me and my views the accusation was so ridiculous that it was laughable were it not harmful to anyone who might hear and believe it. All gossip and slander is harmful and evil. That is why I long ago memorized Proverbs 26:20 and share it as often as possible; “Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a quarrel dies down.
Since the early 80’s I have written articles against labeling people. In fact, when the trend to use certain labels almost as a weapon to describe people in our denomination seemed to reach a frightening peak, some may not remember or have served in some states where that once happened; I wrote an article telling everyone clearly how to label me. I said that I was a “Fundamentalist, Conservative, Moderate, Liberal, catholic Christian.” You see, I studied the root meaning of the words and I believed in the fundamental truths of the scriptures, I was cautious and discrete at times so meant acting conservative. The Bible taught moderation and I believed the scriptures. I believe in being liberal with grace and love and I am a member of the universal church (Catholic with a little c). So there, now you know what to call me, or at least something to call me in public.
Seriously, I guess I have such an aversion to labels because I grew up in racially divided Mississippi in the 60’s. Labels were used to make people seem less than the creation of God that they were. Labels often were used to allow people to demean, disrespect, belittle and even kill their fellowman and think nothing of it. When I was 12 years old three young men were murdered 90 miles from my home. The group that committed the horrible crime was made up of some of the cities’ leading citizens, law officers and led by an ordained Baptist preacher. The last words two of these young men heard before their brutal murder were the labels that were used demean them before their illegal execution. Their crime was simply trying to help obtain the right for American citizens to vote.
As you can tell, I strongly oppose labeling people. Noted Psychiatrist, Dr. David Burns writes in 'Feeling Good', “Labeling is a distorted thinking process that causes you to feel inappropriately indignant and morally superior. It’s destructive to build your self-image that way. In reality, every human being is a complex mix of positive, negative and neutral attributes.” I do realize that there are descriptive terms that often have to do with political or theological viewpoints. It is sometimes helpful to properly use those terms to make a point or describe a viewpoint.
Some choose willingly to call or describe themselves by a certain viewpoint and it is their choice and right to do so to attempt to describe their viewpoint, theology or political philosophy. There is nothing wrong with that, if THEY are the ones who use a label as a matter of self-description. However, a label, even self-imposed, can still give the wrong impression as they are then often open to different interpretation and as Dr. Burns stated we are too complex for such a simple label. As for me I would much rather be described as one who always seeks to discern the complete truth of the Bible and especially enjoy the label as a follower of the author of the book.
Since the early 80’s I have written articles against labeling people. In fact, when the trend to use certain labels almost as a weapon to describe people in our denomination seemed to reach a frightening peak, some may not remember or have served in some states where that once happened; I wrote an article telling everyone clearly how to label me. I said that I was a “Fundamentalist, Conservative, Moderate, Liberal, catholic Christian.” You see, I studied the root meaning of the words and I believed in the fundamental truths of the scriptures, I was cautious and discrete at times so meant acting conservative. The Bible taught moderation and I believed the scriptures. I believe in being liberal with grace and love and I am a member of the universal church (Catholic with a little c). So there, now you know what to call me, or at least something to call me in public.
Seriously, I guess I have such an aversion to labels because I grew up in racially divided Mississippi in the 60’s. Labels were used to make people seem less than the creation of God that they were. Labels often were used to allow people to demean, disrespect, belittle and even kill their fellowman and think nothing of it. When I was 12 years old three young men were murdered 90 miles from my home. The group that committed the horrible crime was made up of some of the cities’ leading citizens, law officers and led by an ordained Baptist preacher. The last words two of these young men heard before their brutal murder were the labels that were used demean them before their illegal execution. Their crime was simply trying to help obtain the right for American citizens to vote.
As you can tell, I strongly oppose labeling people. Noted Psychiatrist, Dr. David Burns writes in 'Feeling Good', “Labeling is a distorted thinking process that causes you to feel inappropriately indignant and morally superior. It’s destructive to build your self-image that way. In reality, every human being is a complex mix of positive, negative and neutral attributes.” I do realize that there are descriptive terms that often have to do with political or theological viewpoints. It is sometimes helpful to properly use those terms to make a point or describe a viewpoint.
Some choose willingly to call or describe themselves by a certain viewpoint and it is their choice and right to do so to attempt to describe their viewpoint, theology or political philosophy. There is nothing wrong with that, if THEY are the ones who use a label as a matter of self-description. However, a label, even self-imposed, can still give the wrong impression as they are then often open to different interpretation and as Dr. Burns stated we are too complex for such a simple label. As for me I would much rather be described as one who always seeks to discern the complete truth of the Bible and especially enjoy the label as a follower of the author of the book.
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