panta ta ethne

What does my caricature look like?

2012-01-12T11:54:00.000-05:00

I am reading W. Oscar Thompson's (very convicting) book "Concentric Circles of Concern." A revised edition is in print, however I am reading the original work. It is possibly the most important book on the actual practice of evangelism/witnessing I have read. Over the next several posts I will include excerpts from the book that have really made an impression on me in some form; whether encouraging, exhorting, rebuking, or convicting. I pray they have the same impact on you!

"I maintain that most people have not rejected Jesus Christ. They merely reject a caricature of him. They have rejected "churchianity." But they have not basically rejected Jesus Christ because they have never really heard about him. That is the tragedy." ~ page 17.

The picture to the left is from the SNL sketch about Tim Tebow's public expression/confession of Jesus. It was a caricature/parody viewed by countless millions. While offensive to many, we must understand that in some way we have also caricatured Jesus. Maybe our personal caricature of Jesus is not as offensive or contemporary, but we have one nonetheless. Is it possible that those around us 'have not basically rejected Jesus' but just our caricature of him? Is is possible we need to spend some time reviewing the biblical picture of Jesus rather than our own ideas of him? Is it possible we need to repent of our improper depiction/descriptions of Jesus and once we have recovered the biblical picture begin sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with others? Is it possible.... you can add your own reflection questions from here. But it might be best to begin with one important question.

Ask yourself, "What does my caricature look like?"

NLT Giveaway

2011-12-08T13:41:00.001-05:00

Let me first state I do not personally use the NLT. However, I know many who do, and greatly enjoy their time in in Bible reading/study using the NLT. With that stated, I include the following for those people in mind:

Dear Bloggers,
We wanted to let you know about a great giveaway happening over at the New Living Translation Facebook page, and also give you a chance to enter a Tyndale Blog Network exclusive giveaway.
Here are the NLT Facebook page giveaway details:
Starting on November 29^th until December 24^th at the New Living Translation Facebook page we're giving away lots of great prizes and something free for you just for singing up.
By visiting the giveaway entry page (located on the NLT Facebook page, the link is under the profile picture) and entering your name and e-mail address you'll be entered to win the following prizes:

One random person each day will win a Life Application Study Bible Family Pack (Guys Life Application Study Bible hc, Girls Life Application Study Bible hc, Student's Life Application Study Bible hc, Life Application Study Bible hc, Life Application Study Bible Large Print hc).
One Random person each week will win an Apple iPad 2!

Everyone that signs up gets a free download copy of the Life Application Bible Study – Book of Luke!

Encountering Bach

2011-12-07T10:33:00.001-05:00

Rick Marschall adds his voice to the Christian Encounters series with his brief biography, Johann Sebastian Bach.

This biography provides the reader with a glimpse into the life of one of the most well-known composers the world has known. His compositions are well recognized by many, however few know the impact of his Lutheran background on his music and life.

Marschall gives the reader some insight into the faith of Bach and how this shaped his life and practice. It is a brief overview, not intended to be exhaustive. Anyone interested in gaining an elementary understanding of Bach and his faith will find the book worth reading. If you are desiring to go deeper, this book can serve well as a diving board into other tomes in the deep end!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Booksneeze.com as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Timing of God

2011-09-02T12:54:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to give an update to those who are following along as we go through the missionary application process. It has been 5 months (April 4th) since my wife shared with me she had the same sense of urgency, desire, passion and call for missions. In that time our lives have been turned upside down!

I had enrolled at Liberty University online the Friday before. During the summer term I took 15 hours (5 courses) which about did me in! I managed to make it with 3 'A's' and 2 'B's'. I am taking another 15 hours for fall term. I am working towards completing 30 hours as part of the requirement for our missions agency, but enrolled in the MDiv in Missional Studies program. My wife will soon be taking 9 hours in order to meet a similar education requirement.

We knew we needed to sell our house, so we prepared it and decided to do a 'For Sale By Owner' (FSBO) strategy before using a realtor to keep costs down. We decided to wait until the end of August and if we didn't have any luck with the fsbo strategy we would seek a realtor. The house has been on craig's list, on facebook, and we put up a few signs and had some interest. The last week or so we have experienced more interest than the previous months. At the time of this post, it looks like we have an offer and continue to pray it all works out.

This will allow us to focus on a few other areas as we deal with the process of purging and mourning the loss of 'stuff'. Some of this 'stuff' is exactly what it is, 'stuff'; other things are more sentimental yet we still recognize we have to purge. It will be an adjustment for us, and our girls.

We also received confirmation that we would be moving along in our process with the International Mission Board (IMB). There are still many steps to go, but it is one step closer than we were last week. We continue to pray about an area of service and are working towards that end in several ways. There are two restaurants we are frequenting in order to develop and learn cross-culturally. We are also working with a Nepalese fellowship about once a month and have tremendously enjoyed worshiping with them.

There is such an urgency, such need, and we are thankful God has called us to this journey. It seems like there is so much to do that at times we feel overwhelmed, discouraged, and impatient. Wednesday night my wife shared an amazing testimony about our journey so far. She received great encouragement from our church family and the next day we received confirmation of the next step with the IMB and also had an offer on our house. While I am not one to read into events 'signs and wonders', I do believe in a Sovereign God! Looking back over the past 4 months we see a clear picture developing ~ at the moments of our complete surrender and total dependence on God the movement of God is seen. However, at the end of each day we know it is all in the timing of God.

We ask for your prayers as we step out by faith on this journey! There will be more change in our lives, but our desire is to be obedient and follow.

Let the Nations be Glad: A Hymn for Missions

2011-09-01T00:39:00.001-04:00

Psalm 67 (ESV)

To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments. A Psalm. A Song.

¹ May God be gracious to us and bless us

and make his face to shine upon us, Selah

² that your way may be known on earth,

your saving power among all nations.

³ Let the peoples praise you, O God;

let all the peoples praise you!

⁴ Let the nations be glad and sing for joy,

for you judge the peoples with equity

and guide the nations upon earth. Selah

⁵ Let the peoples praise you, O God;

let all the peoples praise you!

⁶ The earth has yielded its increase;

God, our God, shall bless us.

⁷ God shall bless us;

let all the ends of the earth fear him!

Psalm 67 is a hymn that was sung to God’s praise. It speaks of His mercy, blessing, righteous judgment and sovereign rule. In response, the people, all nations, are called to respond to God in praise. How beautiful for the people of God to have a hymn that celebrates God’s desire for salvation among all the nations.

Worshiping with Refugees

2011-08-26T10:31:00.000-04:00

Cathy and I have been worshiping with a group of Nepali (Bhutanese) refugees. Home to Mount Everest, Nepal is situated between China and India and is divided into 14 zones with 75 districts. These are third country refugees, having been exiled from Bhutan since the early 1990's and living in one of six refugee camps in the eastern part of Nepal.

Over the years, several countries have allowed large numbers of them to enter their country. From 2009 to 2011 the number of Nepali/Bhutanese refugees has nearly doubled. The map to the right lists the countries where many have been relocated. The total number in the United States in 2011 was nearly 35,000. Scattered throughout the United States, we are gathering with a group in Columbus OH.

Many of these refugees have lived the majority of their lives in refugee camps. Coming to America, or another country, is a dream come true for many of them. They go through a lengthy process of exams, basic English language instruction, and other 'steps' in order to leave Nepal. The ones we are getting to know in Columbus are extremely grateful to be here, work hard, care for one another, and have a desire to grow in their faith.

We gather on Saturdays for worship, since that is the day that works with their work schedules. About 25 or so meet for a time of singing, praying, and teaching. Then on Saturday evening they meet in an apartment and have a time of Bible study and fellowship. We will be worshiping with them tomorrow, in fact, I will be bringing the teaching. Last month I shared the creation to Christ story, while a young man named Suk interpreted for me. It was an experience! When he was just a few months old he was relocated to a refugee camp in Nepal. His entire life was spent living in a bamboo hut, similar to the ones pictured above. It has been a great privilege of getting to know him and the others. It is even greater that we are able to worship our Savior together, crossing language, social, ethnic, and cultural barriers!

Please remember us as we gather with the Nepali's tomorrow!

For more information on the refugee crisis, check out the following links:

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees - Bhutan
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees - Nepal
Overview of the Bhutanese Refugee Crisis
Video of one family's journey from Bhutan to Nepal to Seattle WA

Die Heretic! Those things that divide us...

2011-08-25T13:10:00.000-04:00

I subscribe to several blogs, one of which is Nathan Bingham's. He has a great post you can read here which includes the following story:

A man was walking along San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge when he saw a woman about to jump off. He ran up to her, trying to dissuade her from committing suicide. He told her simply that God loved her. A tear came to her eye.

He then asked her, “Are you a Christian, a Jew, a Hindu, or what?”

“I’m a Christian,” she replied.

He said, “Me, too! Small world! Protestant or Catholic?”

“Protestant.”

“Me, too! What denomination?”

“Baptist.”

“Me, too! Northern Baptist or Southern Baptist?”

“Northern Baptist.”

He remarked, “Well, ME TOO! Northern Conservative Baptist or Northern Liberal Baptist?”

She answered, “Northern Conservative Baptist.”

He said, “Well, that’s amazing! Northern Conservative Fundamentalist Baptist or Northern Conservative Reformed Baptist?”

“Northern Conservative Fundamentalist Baptist.”

“Remarkable! Northern Conservative Fundamentalist Baptist Great Lakes Region or Northern Conservative Fundamentalist Baptist Eastern Region?”

She told him, “Northern Conservative Fundamentalist Baptist Great Lakes Region.”

“A miracle!” he cried. “Northern Conservative Fundamentalist Baptist Great Lakes Region Council of 1879, or Northern Conservative Fundamentalist Baptist Great Lakes Region Council of 1912?”

She said, “Northern Conservative Fundamentalist Baptist Great Lakes Region Council of 1912.”

He then said, “Die, heretic!”, and pushed her over the rail.

I have to admit, I laughed uncontrollably when I read this. I think there are many times in our lives we feel like the woman on the bridge, pushed over the edge because of some small insignificant preference. But then I began thinking, how many times have I been the one yelling, "Die, heretic!" and doing the pushing? May we not allow the small stuff to keep us from the bigger stuff. By choosing our preferences over the essentials we watch a lost and dying world fall over the bridge to an eternal death.

Just think about that... pray... repent...

Am I Really a Christian?

2011-08-15T14:22:00.000-04:00

Throughout my ministry has developed a growing frustration. I have a feeling that many other pastors share the same frustration, but it is rarely discussed. Too often our churches have fewer 'members' attending actively than is recorded (and reported) on the church roll. Where are all these 'ghost members'?

As I think about this I get frustrated. Are they now attending other churches? Did they simply move away, forever to be forgotten? Have they died? Were they even saved to begin with? Why are they still on the roll?

Enter Mike McKinley's excellent book Am I Really a Christian?. This book looks at seven areas for individuals to being the process of reviewing their lives. Each chapter begins with "You are not a Christian" and then has a different topic it covers. For example, "You are not a Christian just because you say that you are" and You are not a Christian if you enjoy sin". Two other personal favorites of mine include, "You are not a Christian if you don't love other people" and "You are not a Christian if you love your stuff".

This is a very thought provoking book and clearly presents a biblical understanding of salvation. These chapters allow the reader to evaluate whether they are indeed a follower of Christ or not. Maybe every person who joins a church should be required to read this book first? Or better yet, maybe every person on a church's roll, whether active or a 'ghost member' should read the book. This book is a call to understand the biblical meaning of salvation and will serve the church well! It might not relieve all the frustration pastors experience, but it will shed light on an important issue facing the church today.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Jesus is God: The Deity of Christ

2011-08-15T12:44:00.000-04:00

The Deity of Christ, a Theology in Community book edited by Christopher Morgan and Robert Peterson brings together fresh insight into the discussion of the deity of Christ. Nine contributors cover the biblical, historical, theological, and contemporary issues for today's reader.

There are many books that deal with the deity of Christ. Some are very scholarly and can be intimidating for the average reader. Typically these books deal with the biblical veracity of the deity of Christ or the historical debates that have taken place in ages past. Occasionally one can read of the influence that false teaching in church history has had on groups like Mormon's and Jehovah's Witnesses. This book covers these topics from a vantage point that the average reader will appreciate and understand.

What sets this work apart from the others is the chapters that deal specifically with cults and mission work. In fact, these were my two favorite chapters. Alan Gomes writes on The Deity of Christ and the Cults and J. Nelson Jennings writes the chapter titled The Deity of Christ for Missions, World Religions, and Pluralism. These two chapters make combine the biblical truth regarding the deity of Christ and the historical debates within early church history together to lay a foundation explaining cults (Mormonism, Jehovah's Witnesses, and the United Pentecostal Church). Understanding this foundation serves well when examining the deity of Christ with missions and how it relates to world religions and the rise in religious pluralism.

Understanding the truth that Jesus is God is not some dry doctrinal maxim for theologians to debate. The chapters gathered together for the Theology in Community series remind us of the rich, undeniable, necessary reality of contending for the faith and the urgency of doing so in our world today.

What about Adam and Eve?

2011-08-10T09:09:00.000-04:00

There is renewed interest and debate in an age old question: did Adam and Eve really exist? From the interaction between Al Mohler and those of Biologos, everything related to Genesis 1-3 is being reexamined and reevaluated from all sides of the issue.

Enter C. John Collins book, Did Adam and Eve Really Exist? Who They Were and Why You Should Care. His approach, thoroughly grounded in historical, biblical truth, examines current scholarship, extra-biblical literature, and critical analysis of from the critics.

If one denies the historical account of Adam and Eve, then it inevitably leads to issues in understanding and explaining sin, the sovereignty of God, the authority of the Bible as it relates to the meta-narrative of the Bible ultimately pointing to a crucified, buried and risen Savior, and impacts our view of humanity in general. To sum up his own book,Collins states, "The alternatives are less satisfactory, and possibly even disastrous, on all these counts (p 133)." 'Counts' referring to those things previously mentioned.

Whether one who has doubts about the historical reliability of creation or even denies the account as recorded in Genesis reads Collins work and is compelled by the evidence to change their view is unclear. However, Collins addresses these issues from a scholarly point of view (with extensive footnotes and a substantial bibliography) but written so pastors, teachers, and students alike can understand. In light of the current issues being discussed, this would be a great resource for any pastor, teacher or student. So, did Adam and Eve really exist? My answer is a resounding yes, and Collins book adds to the biblical foundation that belief is established on. Hopefully, prayerfully, this book will add to your own defense of the historical accuracy and reliability of the biblical account of creation.

Parenting with Grace

2011-08-09T12:37:00.000-04:00

In Give them Grace, Elyse and her daughter share lessons learned in parenting with grace. Too often, we parents set rules for our children and give rewards for obedience and discipline for obedience. Then, as Christian parents, we teach biblical stories that come across as good lessons on obedience versus disobedience. While parents need to set boundaries for their children, and Christian parents need to teach biblical stories regarding obedience and disobedience, we are only reinforcing moralism in our children, teaching them to be good because God will be upset if they don't rather than teaching them about grace.

What is needed more than ever is a shift in parenting emphasis from 'goodness' to grace. The emphasis in parenting needs to center on Jesus Christ and his completed work on Calvary, not on our own behavior and goodness. Combining solid biblical references with personal examples this mother daughter duo bring a much needed 'call of grace' to the parenting table. Throughout the book parents will no doubt reflect on their failures as a parent, but be drawn to rest fully in the grace of Christ. When this happens, it equips them to parent by grace, instilling in their children the life-changing gospel of Christ rather than the failed system of moralism. A great reminder for all parents of the high call of parenting. I would also encourage anyone who works with children to read this book, for no doubt they will be reminded of the great importance of teaching children the gospel of grace!

I'm back...

2011-08-09T08:54:00.001-04:00

My last post was May 17th. It has been nearly three months since I have posted anything. Quite a bit has taken place over the summer and blogging took a back seat. Here is a brief rundown:

Cathy and I are in the initial process of pursuing career missionary service
I began work on my MDiv through Liberty University online, taking 15hrs now and 15 in the fall
We have been working with a Nepalese group of believers in Columbus OH
Over the course of a month we prepared our house in order to put it on the market, if you are looking for a great 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom house check it out here
Cathy's employer was bought by our local hospital and she has had several major changes
She is preparing to enroll in ACTC to acquire several more credits to meet the requirement by the missions agency

Needless to say we have been a bit busy, and this with several weddings, funerals, and other church related responsibilities that are greater in importance than blogging. I have several books that I have reviewed and will begin posting them along with updates on our journey through the missions process. Please keep us in your prayers! I will post soon about the beginning steps that lead us to our decision to pursue missions, what we are exploring, where we feel God leading us to serve, and everything in between. But for now,

I'm back...

Rediscovering the Church Fathers

2011-05-17T11:51:00.001-04:00

Many young, reformed, evangelical types today tend to follow a select number of 'modern' or 'current' church fathers. You know who they are, MacArthur, Piper, Keller, Mahaney, Driscoll, Chan, and even Platt. Don't get me wrong, these are excellent teachers and preachers and they are definitely shaping us young leaders and I have personally benefited from their teaching and practice.

What is missing in our understanding of church polity, orthodoxy and orthopraxy is some guidance from our church fathers from ages past. You know who they are (well, actually we don't, but just go with it), Ignatius, Origen, Ambrose, Basil and Patrick. There is a wealth of guidance that should be gleaned from these early church fathers, and it is to this end that Haykin has written Rediscovering the Church Fathers. Many evangelicals are unfamiliar with any church father outside of the apostles in the New Testament canon, this book is perfect to introduce these fathers to a new generation of believers. This volume provides an overview of the early church fathers and the insights they contributed to Christendom in apologetics, worship, suffering, evangelism/mission, and God's Word.

At times it seems there are questions I am struggling with and no one else has ever had to figure out how to answer them. Then, I turn to the early church fathers and see they not only had similar questions, but they have profound and deeply biblical answers. It is in turning to those who have gone before us, that great cloud of witnesses, that I can find encouragement, strength and the realization that I am not the first to have these struggles.

This book is only the tip of the iceberg as it relates to the writings of the church fathers. Included is an appendix that helps the reader go further in their study of the church fathers, recommending a few helpful books and a few places to start exploring. For some who read this book, they will find themselves 'rediscovering' the church fathers, but I believe a greater majority of those who read this book just might find they are 'discovering' the church fathers for the first time.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Whole Bible Story

2011-05-17T11:05:00.000-04:00

A Bible story book for grown-ups. So declares the back cover of The Whole Bible Story: Everything that Happens in the Bible in Plain English.

"I just can't understand the Bible."
"The Bible doesn't make sense to me."
"Where should I start reading the Bible?"
"There are too many verses I don't understand."
"How can I ever get through all those names?"
"Those rules?"

These are just a sampling of the questions I have heard over the years from Christians who don't read their Bibles. Often I direct them to a translation they might understand easier, or a book of the Bible that might be good to read, or I give them a booklet on a certain topic to begin getting them engaged in Bible reading. Over the years we utilized different 'read the Bible in a year' programs as a church. These have all been helpful resources and methods, but some still don't ever read their Bibles.

Dr. William Marty brings together many of the Bibles most memorable accounts and presents them in a helpful and readable overview of God's story. This is not meant to be a 'new' translation, nor is it intended to replace the Bible. Rather this book is written to encourage the reader to see God's story afresh and motivate them to pick up the Bible and read it.

Divided into 19 chapters (plus an epilogue) this book moves from Genesis to Revelation and presents God's story of grace and His pursuit of man. Each chapter begins with a list of primary characters in that particular story, the setting of that story, shares the story, and then has a summary. Written without chapter and verse numbers (they are referenced in the table of contents), it is a simple, clear and readable summary of the Bible. However, I am not quite sure how many people will read this book and then jump to the closest Bible to read further.

For me, I think this book is a ready resource for those involved in storying the Bible. Missionaries, children's workers, church planter's, lay leaders, and pastor's will benefit greatly from reading the stories of the Bible and retelling them to others. With a greater emphasis on oral learning and illiteracy around the world and in the United States, this will be an invaluable resource in telling God's story to others. That is what makes this 'a Bible story book for grown-ups!'

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Bringing the Gospel Home

2011-05-17T10:34:00.000-04:00

Just hearing the word evangelism scares most people. Add to that the notion of bringing the gospel home might cause knuckles to turn white and eyes to bulge in fear! There is something about Bringing the Gospel Home that freaks us out. We feel uncomfortable, a sense of despair, guilt, shame and hopeless. While there are those 'few' who talk as if sharing the gospel is as easy as breathing, for the rest it takes all we have to just bring up the gospel with our family and close friends. In his own words, author Randy Newman states, 'My purpose in this book is to offer hope (pg. 14).' This book is for the majority of believers who struggle with sharing the gospel.

Randy Newman shares personal testimonies from others as well has his journey (he is a Messianic Jew who has lead several family members to faith) to provide a backdrop that allows us to learn from a wide range of experiences of evangelism. Weaving this together with scripture and closing each chapter with practical steps to take makes this a solid resource for equipping believers to bring the gospel to those they love.

This is not a 'how to guide' or a '3-step method' to evangelism. It is so much more than that. Newman begins by sharing God's plan for the family and Satan's attempt to thwart that plan. Moving next to how the gospel redeems the family, the book transitions to the topics of grace, truth, love, humility, time and eternity. Focusing on these areas centers evangelism on the gospel, not the audience (parents, siblings, neighbors, best friends, etc). There is not a separate chapter for each audience because the gospel transcends subsets of people. As each topic is addressed, numerous examples are shared that 'flesh out' each of the topics.

Bringing the Gospel Home encourages us to have hope in the gospel message as we share it with our family and friends. Evangelism is more than a method, it is the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Note to Self:The Discipline of Preaching to Yourself

2011-05-17T09:11:00.000-04:00

Joe Thorn's book, Note to Self: The Discipline of Preaching to Yourself, brings clarity, focus, and practicality to the daily discipline of living in light of the gospel. While the gospel is the power of God displayed in bringing salvation to the lost, it is also the power of God in the believer's life as we grow in grace. In three sections (The Gospel and God; The Gospel and Others; and The Gospel and You) Thorn shares brief, devotional insights that bring to light how the gospel is our life. Thorn provides excellent examples, bringing together scripture, the gospel, and all aspects of life together in a way that will challenge, convict, and correct!

I have been preaching/pastoring for nearly 13 years. Any pastor who has preached any length of time understands how we can focus so intently on preaching the gospel to others that we fail to preach the gospel to ourselves. Or, we preach the gospel (the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus) to the lost that we miss connecting the gospel to our daily lives. As a pastor it was a great reminder that I need to continually preach to myself, but don't think this is only for pastor's!

This book will speak to every believer, whether we stand behind the pulpit or we sit in front of the pulpit. Throughout our churches many believers have grown accustomed to seeing the gospel as a message for the lost, or something we hear about on Sunday. Too few understand the reality that the gospel undergirds all of life. If one takes the time to read through this book prayerfully, they will no doubt be awakened to the discipline of preaching to themselves.

I would highly encourage every pastor to read this book and will recommend it to others. Of the countless books I have read in the past year, this is by far of the best! And it is one I will read more than once!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Greener Grass Conspiracy

2011-05-02T09:34:00.000-04:00

I was thankful to have the opportunity to review this book from Crossway. While it is a quick read, I found myself re-reading sentences, paragraphs and even chapters. It is written well, scripture focused, and gospel saturated. As I read this book, I found myself examining my life and through that process discovering idols in my life that needed to be shattered. It confronts the mindset that too many of us live with, if only (I could get that perfect wife, job, car, body, etc) then I would be (happy, content, satisfied, have purpose, have identity). It is time we break out of the bondage we are under, being bound to a life of discontentment, a life looking at what appears to be the greener grass on the other side of the fence.

Altrogge does a great job of pointing one back to the gospel message and our identity in Christ. There is something liberating when a believer comes to not just know but experience fully their identity in Christ rather than their identity in 'things.' As we pursue 'things' we find after some time that the 'things' look greener, better, more satisfying on the other side.

There is nothing better than knowing my identity is not in what I do, what I have, or how much I have; rather my identity is in Christ! You can take away what i do, what i have and how much i have but you can't take away my identity in Christ!

It is time to expose the conspiracy, repent, and pursue Christ. One will never be content with things. God used Stephen Altrogge and The Greener Grass Conspiracy to bring me back to that stream of living water refreshing my soul. Be prepared not only to have your idols exposed, but to tear them down! Watch the video trailer below:

"Greener Grass Conspiracy" Trailer - Stephen Altrogge from Crossway on Vimeo.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

What should we do with Easter?

2011-04-20T09:39:00.001-04:00

I recently linked an article from the Resurgence on my facebook page on how the resurrection of Jesus Christ has become associated with bunnies and eggs. There were a couple of comments, but I chose not to address them on facebook (it is difficult to fully speak to an issue in a brief comment thread). Today I read another great article from the Resurgence responding to an article from the Washington Post's On Faith page by guest writer Erik Reece. His post, titled 'Save Jesus, Ignore Easter', explores his view of following Jesus' moral teachings rather than focusing on His death and resurrection. It also briefly (very briefly) describes how he left the church and her teachings (while promoing his new book, I might add).

This week I have been reflecting on the last week of Jesus' life. I believe Jesus willingly, sacrificially, and obediently suffered, died, and was buried. I believe the power of God raised Him from the dead. I believe this is one of the most important truths in all of scripture. I believe this based on the truth of God's word.

[3] For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, [4] that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, [5] and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. [6] Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. [7] Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. [8] Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.
(1 Corinthians 15:3-8 ESV)

So what should we do with Easter? In the words of Reece 'American Christianity has historically been focused so obsessively on the Nicene Creed -- which says Jesus was the son of God, who was crucified for our sins and rose from the grave three days later -- that it never made much room for the actual teachings of this radical Jewish street preacher.'

I am not quite sure how 'focused' American Christianity is on the Nicene Creed. I have attended Baptist, Methodist, Nazarene, Pentecostal, and Independent churches before, and never once did any of them recite the Nicene Creed. In fact, I wonder if the churches that Reece describes his father and grandfather preaching in ever recited the Nicene Creed? The Nicene Creed was written primarily to affirm the doctrine of the deity of Jesus and refute a false teaching by Arius. It is not meant to summarize 'the actual teachings of this radical Jewish street preacher.'

Regardless, looking at the Nicene Creed, or any creed for that matter, rather than going directly to the gospel narratives (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) and the New Testament letters for an understanding of the resurrection is erroneous at best. When one reads those accounts, the teachings of Jesus do stand in stark contrast to the religious leaders of the day. His teachings are radical. The call to love our enemies, to pray for those who persecute you, to live in submission and obedience to the Father are revolutionary.

I agree there has been a large gulf between the Kingdom of God/heaven as future and the Kingdom of God/heaven as now. Many live only for heaven, never living the gospel each day. But that does not negate the reality of the resurrection, nor the call for submission and obedience now. Rather than looking at those who have failed to live up to our perceived expectations of faith, we should be '[2] looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2 ESV)'

Reece states 'This is why I'm against Easter. It celebrates the death of Jesus nearly to the exclusion of his life.' There is a reason that many believers observe Good Friday services, reflecting on the death of Jesus. But when Sunday comes, there is joyous celebration and exultation of Jesus the Resurrected King! The observance of Jesus' resurrection on Easter Sunday is not celebrating the death of Jesus to the exclusion of His life. In fact, it is the celebration of resurrection life! This is why the Apostle Paul states it is 'of first importance.'

What about eggs, bunnies and baskets? I have two daughters, and they will get an Easter basket with candy and such in it. Is this evil, wrong, morally apprehensive? I don't think so, I am not convicted of it. My girls are not reading the tales of the Easter Bunny and placing their faith in such stories. They read about the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus! As a believer, if you are not teaching your children the truth of Resurrection Sunday (Easter) then shame on you! We don't need to save Jesus from Easter, for Jesus is the one who saves us, from the penalty of sin. We don't need to ignore Easter and become staunch legalists instituting rules and regulations on others.

What should we do with Easter? As believers, we must be bold in our proclamation that our celebration is focused on the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. This is of first importance! Everything else is just fluffy bunnies...

Are you tempted? Be honest and say 'YES'

2011-04-19T10:25:00.003-04:00

Let's be honest. You are being tempted to do something you know you shouldn't do. Don't lie. I know you are! How do I know this? Because I battle temptation myself. It is something every person faces. For the believer, it is something we all deal with, but rarely talk about, and never admit!

In Tempted and Tried: Temptation and the Triumph of Christ Dr. Russell Moore explores the intricacies of temptation in the believer's life. Realizing temptation is something every person has in their life, Moore focus' attention on Jesus' temptation and provides the reader with solid biblical truths to honestly address them.

Focusing on the believer's identity in Christ, Moore honestly shares how vulnerable we can be and ways in which the adversary works. Too often temptation is an 'undiscussed' topic among believers and this book not only explores temptation, it also enables the believer to better overcome temptation.

This is not simply a 'how-to' manual where you check off a few things from a list or quote a few scriptures to make everything better. This book lays open the reality of temptation and makes a straight line for the cross of Jesus, focusing on His completed work on the cross and His triumph over temptation and sin.

In this life we will continue to struggle with temptation (and sin). Growing in Christ likeness, staying grounded in God's word and having a consistent prayer life enable us to be better equipped to deal with temptation. I would recommend this book as a great tool alongside the previous patterns of growing in Christ likeness. There are not many books that deal effectively with this topic and since it is not a common dinner table subject Tempted and Tried fills a needed void and deserves a wide readership.

"Tempted and Tried" Trailer - Russell Moore from Crossway on Vimeo.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Max on Life

2011-04-18T12:47:00.000-04:00


Buy		Read

Max on Life is a collection of 172 answers to questions that Max has been asked through the years. Topics cover such topics as spiritual issues to work issues to marriage issues to death to prayer and everything in between. The answers are brief and to the point, written from a pastoral perspective and tone. It is one of those books that can be used as a quick reference when facing issues personally or when looking for encouraging words to share with others.

Since this book is written in a question/answer format and arranged in 172 'chapters' it doesn't read like a typical Max Lucado book. More devotional, it is a book that can be referenced many times and provide a springboard to explore answers to life. Easy to read, biblically sound, and covering a broad range of issues, Max on Life is a great resource for personal reading and for those who are gifted with encouraging and helping others.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Booksneeze.com as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Glimpse of Galileo

2011-04-13T15:17:00.000-04:00

Mitch Stokes as written a great book providing an sweeping look at the life of Galileo. As the reader explores Galileo's childhood, understands how his mind was shaped, and reads about his dying days, this book in the Christian Encounters series gives a glimpse of Galileo that many do not know.

Aside from the mathematical and scientific core that many are familiar with, Galileo held deeply to his faith and it was through his faith that Galileo explored these other areas of interest.

Stokes delves into the controversy between the church and science on heliocentricity, Galileo's calculations of the hell in Dante's Inferno, and other aspects of his genius.

This is a well-written book and gives an excellent overview of Galileo's life. With the exploration of Galileo's faith it brings a different perspective to this great man of science and math.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Booksneeze.com as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Life of Andrew Jackson

2011-04-05T10:24:00.001-04:00

The Life of Andrew Jackson is one in a series of 'Life of" books (Luther, Knox, Washington) from New Leaf Publishing and Attic Books. It is the telling of his life about 13 years after his death. Providing great insight and exploring his life from the time of his youth up to the last words before his death, it is a great history of our 7th president.

Nicknamed "Old Hickory" because of his tough demeanor and aggressiveness, he is at best a conflicted individual and at worst very controversial. On one hand Jackson aided in moving Native American Indians to the West and supported slavery, on the other, his last words on his death bed expressed his great hope in Jesus as his Savior and his deep religious affections.

A successful frontiersman in the early days of our nations history, a governor, senator, supreme court justice and President of the United States, The Life of Andrew Jackson is a great overview of this president.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from New Leaf Publishing Group as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

iShine Bible for tween girls

2011-04-05T09:12:00.000-04:00

One of the blog review programs I participate in, Tyndale, had this Bible as one of the selections. Having a daughter who is 10, I thought it would be a great Bible for her.

There are a few things I really enjoy about the iShine Bible. Designed for tween girls, the lip sync pink and rockin' ruby leatherlike cover is not only visually appealing, it is crafted well (for the use by a tween!). While I am not a personal reader of the NLT, it is a translation that my daughter can read and understand, so for her it works well. There are three sections inserted throughout the Bible that focus on areas of great importance for any young girl: she has value, a unique identity in Christ, and a purpose to fulfill. With the addition of qr code boxes for those who have the technology linking to videos and music, it is a perfect Bible for the target audience.

In addition, there is an index included that references Scripture based on certain topics or life situations a tween might encounter. Three additional lists of great chapters from the Bible, great stories from the Bible and great verses to memorize round out the additional helps. All in all I think it is a great Bible, and most importantly, so does my 10 year old!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A time of recharging

2011-04-04T14:13:00.000-04:00

The last couple of weeks I have not been blogging. However, I have been reading, studying and praying. Our church was preparing for revival services and there were a couple of opportunities I had to gather with local pastors and receive some much needed encouragement. Sometimes my battery gets low and I need them recharged. These past couple of weeks have been a much need time of recharging.

Since January, many in our church have been in a spirit of revival, examining ourselves and repenting of sin where we fall short. There has been a great spirit of renewal as individuals have been repenting of sin, growing in Christ-likeness, seeking forgiveness and reconciliation, seeking God's guidance and call for their lives and most importantly, growing deeper in their relationship with Christ and each other. The revival services were refreshing, and our guest preacher, Duane Floro, did an outstanding job.

A local church sponsored a Saturday brunch and facilitated a time of encouragement and prayer. With around 20 area pastors present, there was a sweet spirit of prayer, confession and encouragement. I knew a few of the pastors, but I don't believe there was any one person who knew everyone. It was refreshing to gather with other pastors and share with each other, confessing our sins and failings, and encouraging each other to remain faithful!

During this time I have read many books, one of which was Rob Bell's book, Love Wins. Others have written excellent reviews of this book, so I will pass. If you are a pastor or church leader, I would encourage you to get a copy, read it, then file the book on your shelf for future reference. While there are a few areas that I would agree with Bell on in regards to 'church culture', I do not believe in any form of inclusivism or universalism. Pastors need to be aware of what many are turning to and reading. This book has the potential to reach those who are disgruntled with 'church' as an institutional entity and are seeking something more 'tolerant' and 'open'.

Hopefully I will be back on a roll reviewing some books, posting sermon notes, and plan to post some thoughts on church planting, missions, and reaching the unreached.

Evangelism. Storying. Gospel. Sex-Offenders.

2011-03-11T11:50:00.002-05:00

Our church has recently been studying/exploring evangelism as we prepare for an upcoming revival and Easter weekend. I am modifying material from several sources and approaching evangelism as something more than the Romans Road or the rote memorization and sharing of a few particular verses. I am also challenging our church to have a greater understanding of God's overarching story of the Bible, so we have covered God, creation, man, fall, Christ, and consummation as well as OT promises made and NT promises kept.

Part of our learning is utilizing Bible storying and incorporating biblical stories with our personal testimonies, thus giving the Word of God, which has authority and power, greater emphasis and our testimonies a secondary emphasis. This is pushing me and others to present the gospel in ways that truly connect with others where they are at, rather than recite a few verses to them, or what is more common, telling our story with out really telling His story.

For example, I had the opportunity this week to share the gospel in a rather unique setting. I am a 'partner' for a registered sex offender in a sex offender treatment program. I attend meetings with him and provide encouragement, support, and accountability with him. One thing led to another and the Holy Spirit opened a door and I was allowed to go through it.

To make a long story short, a spiritual issue was being addressed and when the opportunity presented itself I began sharing the gospel and began with the story of David and Bathsheba. I explained that David is called a man after God's own heart, and he loved and worship God in such a way that he wrote many songs to God called Psalms. I then storied the account of David not serving on the battlefield, his lust, his sin with Bathsheba, the conspiracy to commit murder and the consequences of his sin. This led to his discussion with Nathan and David's conviction and confession of sin before God (Psalm 51). I then moved to sharing how David's guilt and shame were removed by the forgiveness of God, and likewise we see this demonstrated through the sacrificial death of Jesus. In His death He bore the wrath of God against sin and removes the guilt and shame of sin for those who receive Him.

That is the summary, and I am sure there was more that I shared, but honestly can't remember everything. The Holy Spirit just took over and I shared as succinctly as I could in a way that spoke to the context of the group. I might have just used the Roman Road presentation, or something similar, but storying David and his sexual sin with this group resonated with them. The particular gentleman I was sharing with connected with the story which connected to the gospel.

I don't know where that will lead him, I didn't 'close the deal' and lead him (or any others) in a sinner's prayer (in fact I didn't begin nor end my presentation with a prayer), and I didn't ask him to personally receive Jesus Christ as His personal Lord and Savior. What I did was allow the Holy Spirit to lead and share a biblical story that connected not only to his context but built a bridge to the gospel and presented to him (and the group) the gospel of Jesus Christ. Obedience and honoring God was most important, not 'closing a deal'. I pray the Holy Spirit continues to speak to this man and that he will respond to God's offer of salvation.

As we share the gospel, may we remember that while our personal testimonies might be real, personal, and meaningful, they are not the Word of God. By having an understanding of the overall biblical storyline, we find there is a wealth of stories that can be used to speak to a person where they are and if we use the Word of God (more than just a tract or a particular tool) as the Holy Spirit leads to make much of Jesus we will find sharing the gospel brings such joy to our lives.

I would love to hear your experiences sharing the gospel. Share away!

We Be BIG

2011-03-11T08:32:00.000-05:00

We Be BIG is not the typical book I would normally pick up, much less read. However, I will periodically read something out of the norm from theology, doctrine, commentary, etc. and this was one of those books.

My wife is much more well versed in radio personalities and country music (in fact, country music is probably near the bottom of my list, don't hate on me!) so reading this book was new in many ways to me.

Their story of Rick Burgess and Bill "Bubba" Bussey is told through alternating autobiographical chapters describing their initial discovery and interest in radio and provides a glimpse into how they become the personalities they are today. With over 3.5 million listeners, their on-air presence has provided them with a powerful platform where they are able to express the view of current events from the perspective of two of 'the sexiest fat men alive'.

While addressing comedy, politics, tragedy, and life in general, they are also able to speak to the issue of their faith in God. This book is an honest look describing how this duo experienced ups and downs in the syndicated radio business all while holding fast to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Booksneeze as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

If God, Why Evil?

2011-03-04T13:30:00.000-05:00

An answer to this question, or any number of variations of this question, has been sought for ages. In Norman L. Geisler's, If God, Why Evil?, the author seeks to provide answers for believers and equip them with the necessary tools and knowledge to help skeptics, athiests, and others find answers as well.

In the introduction, the author states he desires to be 'clear, concise, and comprehensive (page 10).' Beginning with three views on evil, the author then explores such topics as 'the nature of evil, the origin of evil, the purpose of evil, and miracles and evil.' The book is a quick read and is clear, yet at times I found myself re-reading paragraphs and sections to be sure I followed the author's line of thought.

Each chapter begins with a series of statements relevant to the particular chapter and then explores each point. As the author addresses those particular points (objections) a clear case is established to present a biblical response to the question 'if God, why evil?' While I didn't walk away with a general statement that provides a simple and clean answer to the question, the approach taken throughout the book did help form a better framework to address the issue of God and evil with others. As I was reading this book and researching the topic of evil, I found an excellent presentation by Geisler at Saddleback Church that covered the material in the book. It will be a great overview before reading the book. You can watch it here.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Don't Waste Your Cancer

2011-03-03T07:04:00.000-05:00

For years John Piper has called and challenged believers to 'desire God', 'don't waste our lives', and to 'hunger for God'. It only makes sense that Piper would also challenge believers not to waste their cancer, to use it to glorify God.

Don't Waste Your Cancer, is a 16 page booklet of 11 'chapters' that are brief exhortations calling us not waste our cancer were written the night before John Piper's own cancer surgery. Weaving together Scripture and his personal insight, the chapters are brief, devotion like readings that speak to the heart.

Here are a few headings: 2) We waste our cancer if we do not believe it is designed for us by God. 4) We waste our cancer if we seek comfort from our odds rather than from God. 7) We waste our cancer if we spend too much time reading about cancer and not enough time reading about God.

This booklet is sensitive, compassionate, biblical, and encouraging. Not only will it be an excellent resource for pastors, but I will also share copies with doctors, nurses, and other caregivers. While cancer is in the title, the truth and encouragement can be used for those suffering from other serious/critical diagnoses. Born out of Piper's personal experience with cancer, it is a booklet that has the ability to help many believers suffer well for the glory of God. In the words of Piper, "Until we see him, may God help us not waste our health or our cancer."
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

God is Great: A Toddler's Bible Storybook

2011-03-02T15:26:00.000-05:00

God is Great by Carolyn Larsen is a perfect book for a 4 year old girl! At least my 4 year old girl thinks so.

This Bible storybook will begin teaching toddlers about God by telling 17 stories from Creation to the Resurrection in age appropriate language. The illustrations are colorful, fun and 'child like' which provides an added element that will help engage your toddler as you read the stories to them.

I read the storybook and thought it was well-written and the summaries are storied for kids while maintaining key biblical concepts. After reading it myself, I called my 4 year old over and told her I had a book just for her. She crawled up next to me on the couch and I began reading it to her. She found the book to be great as well!

Let me share two comments from her. I read the story called 'God Starts Over' about Noah and the ark. The 4th and last sentence are the same: God hates sin. I finished reading this page and with a smile across her face and a serious look in her eye, she tells me, "Daddy, I love sin." Out of the mouth of babes! After we talked for a bit and laughed together, I continued to read. We came to the story of Samson and my 4 year old looked at the illustration and said, "Daddy, that is a girl, she has on makeup." Needless to say, reading the rest of the book was interesting!

It is my prayer that reading, talking, and laughing together about these stories will begin to build into my daughter a love for God's Word and a desire to read it. This is a wonderful book for any daddy to read to his daughter (or son)!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

MissionSHIFT: A blog conversation, pt. 3

2011-02-23T15:15:00.000-05:00

This is the final post in a series around MissionSHIFT: Global Mission Issues in the Third Millenium edited by David Hesselgrave and Ed Stetzer. Over the past 6 weeks or so, there has been an online blog conversation among many bloggers (50 were invited, but it doesn't seem as if 50 were responding, just saying) centered on 3 essays in the book. You can read my response to the first essay here and the second essay here. You can read part 3 of the Ed Stetzer's blog here.

The final essay was written by Ralph Winter and titled: The Future of Evangelicals in Mission. As I read the essay, I found myself wanting more discussion and exploration regarding the future of mission, but felt like the substance of his essay was on the past. Winter writes to 'demonstrate the difference between earlier Evangelicalism, which was characterized by both spiritual and social concern, and the latter Evangelicalism, which emphasized evangelism predominately (page 164).'

Winter's calls the former Evangelicals 'First-Inheritance Evangelicals (FIE)' and the latter 'Second-Inheritance Evangelicals (SIE)'. This categorization is helpful to understand where Winter desires to take the reader. Spending more time explaining the FIE than the SIE allows the author to form a foundation to contrast how evangelicals in both categories communicated the gospel.

Reading the essay helped to understand better the past, but Winter doesn't explore the future of evangelicalism with as much clarity as he explains the past. I would summarize the essay in this way: there exists within the history of evangelicalism (and missions) a gulf between ministry of word and ministry of deed.

In previous generations, the ministry of the word and ministry of deeds went hand in hand as Christ-followers sought to proclaim the gospel. During the last century, an over-emphasis focusing on the ministry of the word developed, leading a majority of Christ-followers to negate, and even deplore, engaging with the 'secular' world. Proclamation of the word became the priority over social engagement, in many ways because social engagement pushed to the extreme lead to a social gospel rather than the biblical gospel. This over-correction has left a generation going to the other side, now desiring greater emphasis on social issues, and if not balanced well, there exists the potential for reverting back to a social gospel.

So what is the future of mission? A healthy balance of ministry of word and deed are critical. Contextualizing the gospel for maximum effective communication balanced with an appropriate level of social concern builds bridges to those being reached. As the next generation of Christ-followers seeks to engage our world, we need to have an understanding of the past to guide how we approach the future. I believe this will have to be a conversation that will have to include a wide range of issues; from advances in technology, the fight against AIDS and malaria, those living in extreme poverty and the lives impacted through human trafficking, contextualizing the gospel in appropriate ways to effectively communicate the gospel with oral learners, non-theistic people groups, as well as other worldviews. While these are complex issues, we have been given the task to take the gospel to the nations!

One last observation. Today's churches tend to be filled with believers who have divided ministry of word and ministry of deed. There is reluctance on the part of many believers to move in a direction that even hints at being connected to a 'social gospel'. This becomes a barrier to those Christ-followers who desire to have a balanced approach. I am not sure what this means for the future of the church as a recognized entity in society today. The church has been given the mission of taking the gospel to the nations. I am encouraged by those churches that see the long range impact that can result when ministry of word and deed are in balance. It is my prayer that by their example, the church will be known not for what she is against, but what she is for; the church will be a respected and vital voice at the table in addressing social issues, and the gospel will be taken to the nations!

I want to thank Ed Stetzer (and his assistant, Amy) for the opportunity to be part of this conversation. I have enjoyed reading, thinking and discussing these issues. Please keep me on your list for future conversations!

Reading Roundup

2011-02-15T10:01:00.000-05:00

Over the past month (or longer for some books) I have finished reading several books. Rather than post individual reviews for each, they are here in one post.

No Other Gospel by Josh Moody (Crossway)
Moody sums up this book in the subtitle: 31 Reasons from Galatians Why Justification by Faith Alone is the Only Gospel. These 'reasons' provide a refreshing combination of solid exegesis, theological faithfulness, clear application, and personal illustration in one source. Based on a series of sermons Moody preached to his congregation, this resource reads more like an extended devotional than a verse-by-verse commentary. In fact, 'No Other Gospel' was a great resource for me as our church participated in the January Bible Study on Galatians used across many Southern Baptist Churches. Knowing we would have a brief study on Galatians led me to plan a sermon series on Galatians later in the year. Since Moody has arranged his book in 31 reasons, it will be a book that I read devotionally as I prepare the sermons. I will read this book side by side with Luther's Commentary on Galatians, and no doubt will grow in my knowledge, understanding, and application of God's Word as it reveals 'no other gospel'.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Legacy of the King James Bible by Leland Ryken (Crossway)
This year marks the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible. Not only is it one of the most important translations within Christian history, it also has contributed greatly to language, culture, and literature. Ryken brings solid research, a background in literature, and his love for God's Word together in this well-written summary of the history and legacy of the King James Bible. Beginning with earlier English translations that contributed to the King James, Ryken explores how that particular translation became the predominant translation in its day, even though it wasn't necessarily the preferred by particular groups of believers. From here, Ryken details the influence the King James had in future Bible translations, language, culture and literature. While their exists a plethora of translations today, the King James has (some would argue until recently) been at the top of the mountain in preferred translations. While its use might be waning, its influence will continue to impact future generations. While scholarly, researched, and footnoted, 'The Legacy of the King James Bible' is a book that any who loves the KJV of the Bible would enjoy, whether scholar, pastor, or the church member who just wants to understand more about the most influential Bible in English history.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Life of Luther by Barnas Sears (Attic Books [New Leaf Publishing])
The Life of Luther is a reprint of the book by Sears originally published in 1850. If you are book lover, you will no doubt love the look of this book (with its weathered looking cover, rough edged pages, and old-world typeset). Many students of Reformation history are familiar with the works of Luther, and a few read biographies about him as well. This is one biography that will provide a greater understanding of the events in Luther's life that shaped his religious views, which ultimately led him to be excommunicated by the Pope in 1520. In the words of Sears, 'It will, I trust, appear that the author has had no theory to establish, no secret to purpose to answer, but has studiously laboured to set forth Luther in his real character. His faults have not been concealed, nor his virtues wittingly overdrawn (page 9).' The author does this well and the end result is a great biography for any person who is interested in the life of Martin Luther.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from New Leaf Publisher Group as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Pujols: More than the Game by Scott Lamb and Tim Ellsworth (Thomas Nelson)
Having recently read NFL Saints QB Drew Brees autobiography, I now move to MLB Cardinals 1stB Albert Pujols biography. Having played his entire career for the Cardinals, Pujols is no-doubt a future hall of famer. Hailing from the Dominican Republic, playing high-school baseball in Kansas City, a very brief stint in the minor leagues and now reaching hall of fame standards, this book traces his life and how he became the player he is today. Compared to the likes of Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron and Willie Mays, Pujols might be one of the greatest living players of his era today. ESPN.com named him the greatest player of the decade for 2000-2009. While highlighting his early years, his baseball stardom, and his family life, the book also highlights the faith of Pujols. More than just wearing a cross and thanking God when a home run is hit, Pujols lives and expresses his deep faith in Jesus Christ. It is a key component of his life. Speaking to a life controlled by God rather than the flesh Pujols states, 'It would be easy to go out and do whatever I want, but those things only satisfy the flesh for a moment. Jesus satisfies my soul forever (page 181).' Even when asked about PED's, he simply responded, 'I fear God too much to do any stupid thing like that (page 181).' Any fan of baseball, any fan of the Cardinals, anyone wanting to see how faith intersects with life will be inspired and even encouraged to read it is possible to live in this world as a believer in Jesus Christ.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Booksneeze as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Soul Print

2011-02-03T15:29:00.000-05:00

Pastor and Author Mark Batterson (In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day) challenges the reader to discover their divine destiny. In order to make this discovery, God must be at the center rather than self. With so many voices screaming out their thoughts on becoming a better you, how to find your best life now, and starting your new life today, Batterson's call brings a much needed to call to quit looking to our self and turn to God.

Everyone knows they have a unique fingerprint, and Batterson uses this truth to lay out an understanding of each person's unique 'soul print.' So, how do we find out how 'unique' we are? In his own words he states, "There has never been and never will be anyone else like you. But that isn't a testament to you. It's a testament to the God who created you... The fact that there never has been and never will be anyone like you simply means that no on can worship God like you or for you. (page 2)"

Following the life of David, from his darkest and deepest moments of sin to his repentance and transformation of becoming a man after God's own heart, Batterson hits home the truth that no matter where we have been or where we are now, God hasn't given up on us. Just like David, we have defining moments in our lives that give us our soul print. Complete with personal examples from his own life and a discussion guide at the end of the book to help with small group discussions, Soulprint will help you begin to discover your divine destiny, without all the 'self-help, look within yourself' stuff being peddled today. Excellent book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

What is the gospel?

2011-02-02T16:25:00.000-05:00

Much is being written today in an effort to answer that question. It is worth spending time reflecting on. In the months to come I will be reading several books, listening to many sermons, and reflecting on how the Bible answers that question.

One of the 'go to' passages I reference to define the gospel is 1 Cor 15:3-5. Yet, there are multiple facets to the way in which the Bible answers that question. Below are several other resources/links that seek to answer the question of what the gospel is:

Mars Hill Church has a great summary and video here.

Greg Gilbert wrote an excellent book that seeks to define the gospel. I will post a review of it in the future. You can find the book here.

Monergism has a great explanation of the gospel here.

No list of resources would be complete without hearing from John Piper. You can find a video of his answer here.

R.C. Sproul provides his answer to that question here.

It is always beneficial for believers to continually explore and explain what the gospel is and isn't. Again, there are many books, sermons and other resources continually being released addressing that question. I hope these links will give you ample reasons to read, listen and learn as you seek to answer for yourself what the gospel is. In fact, I would be interested to see how you define the gospel. Feel free to comment with your how you would define it (this includes you Shawn!).

Solemn Assembly of Prayer and Fasting

2011-02-01T14:21:00.000-05:00

Our church joined with sister Southern Baptist Churches across the nation in a Day of Solemn Assembly on Sunday January 30th. During the month of Jan I preached through the book of Joel, speaking to the topic of spiritual renewal, repentance, prayer and fasting. The two weeks prior to the Day of Solemn Assembly prayer guides for self-examination, prayer, confession of sin and repentance were included in the bulletin.

During those two weeks I heard amazing testimonies from church members of conviction, confession of sin, repentance and renewal. These testimonies greatly encouraged me and humbled me. I was encouraged to hear how God was working in the lives of our members. I was humbled to be a part of the process of renewal for myself and our church. Many pastors strive for greater attendance, increased offerings, and bigger fame. My prayer is for gospel transformation in the people I am called to serve, and prayerfully out of that God will move within us to be a people that connects with those around us, sharing the gospel with them, and living what we believe.

The Sunday service was an amazing time for many in our church. The worship guided us, as did several times of Scripture reading. There were times of personal prayer and corporate prayer. The service moved from honoring and praising God and His greatness, confessing sin, and ended with a focus on Christ's victory over sin and death. During the invitation/time of response, a few came forward for prayer and renewal.

Even today I continue to hear from church members who are allowing God to deal with the sin in their lives. It is amazing to see so many have such a strong desire to honor Him and deal with sin honestly. My prayer and challenge to our church was not to let the time of prayer and fasting, a time of spiritual renewal to end with the service. Rather, it should be part of an ongoing process where we allow God's Word to reveal to us our sin, and as the Holy Spirit convicts us, we confess that sin and trust in the completed work of Jesus Christ to forgive us our sin. I will be the first to admit times of self-examination, pruning, and conviction of sin are not the most pleasant of experiences, yet it is out of those times that we are more able to become like Christ, having set aside the sin that so easily ensnares us. May the people of God continually seek after Him!

MissionSHIFT: A blog conversation, pt. 2

2011-01-31T19:08:00.001-05:00


Yes, this picture is swiped from Resurgence. Read article here.

This is the second in a series of posts for an online blog discussion of MissionShift. You can read the initial post by Ed Stetzer here, and my response here. The following response will speak to the issue of contextualization in Paul Hiebert's essay: The Gospel in Human Contexts. His essay had responses from Michael Pocock, Darrell Whiteman, Norman Geisler, Avery Willis Jr., and Ed Stetzer.

After stating Hiebert's thesis I will weave together my thoughts from his essay and the listed author's responses. With a limited knowledge of the history of missiology (and likewise contextualization), I confess upfront my thoughts might not fully speak to the history nor the depth of knowledge available today.

Thesis (first sentence): The purpose of this essay is to offer some discussion of the state of "contextualization" as a critical aspect of missions, and of the changing perceptions of contextualization among missionaries and missions scholars (pg 82).

Hiebert's thesis is supported through four views of understanding how contextualization has been (and currently is) being engaged. Without sounding philosophical or academic, my understanding of contextualization is the process used whereby the biblical gospel is presented to a culture outside my own with as little of my cultural bias as possible. I need to present the biblical gospel in a way that speaks to the 'other' culture in ways they can understand in their 'context' (language, customs, attitudes, heritage, etc.) that is faithful to the biblical gospel. Hiebert categorizes four views that provide a framework to understand how this process has been implemented. These views provide a lens to understand how Westerners and Europeans took the gospel to the ends of the earth (in the past). View 1: Minimal Contextualization; View 2: Uncritical Contextualization; View 3: Critical Contextualization; and View 4: Divine Revelation Given in Human Contexts.

View 1 missionaries translated the Bible into the language of a people group, but no other cultural accommodations were made. Worship practices, church order, and even church architecture reflected the culture of the missionary, not the people group.

View 2 missionaries went the other direction, accommodating too freely. The process had as an outcome a strong cultural relativism rather than gospel transformation. In making efforts to relate to the people group and their culture, practices were adopted that lead to syncretism.

View 3 missionaries reacted to both of the previous views and sought to remain biblically faithful and sensitive to the culture they were immersed in. This would avoid 'westernerizing' the culture and 'syncretizing' unbiblical practices and beliefs to the gospel.

View 4 missionaries seek to answer two questions: What did the biblical text mean originally? And what does this text mean for us today (page101)? Jesus becomes the example, being incarnated in a cultural context (leaving heaven and entering flesh as a Jew).

This is a very simplistic summary of Hiebert's four views but provides a general overview of how missionaries have 'engaged' the culture they were sent too. And before the word 'contextualization' became part of our vernacular, A. Willis points out the use of the term 'indigenization' was used. I would even point further back than the middle of the last century, beyond the days of pioneer missions, beyond William Carey, back to the days of the NT church and her first 'missionaries'; the apostles and those first and second generation believers.

The book of Acts records the spread of the gospel throughout Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria to the ends of the earth. I find it very encouraging the gospel is presented to individuals, villages, and even ethnic groups in a way that speaks to their spiritual need while being sensitive to cultural elements as well. Acts 17 is one of my favorite chapters for this very reason. Why is this significant? If the NT apostles and those first/second generation believers followed the process according to View 1 as described by Hiebert, Christian men would be circumcised and various other Jewish distinctives would be a normal part of our current tradition (Acts 15).

While I believe the gospel should always be proclaimed in a way that transcends cultural distinctives, there is no escaping those distinctives exist either. A gospel presentation to a group of 5th graders will be different than one before a group of PhD's which will be different than one to those with no thiestic background. The question then becomes: To what extent does the missionary push orthodox boundaries (in doctrine and practice) to present the gospel to a people group? This is where I believe the debate will continue to be expressed. What cultural elements are adopted without crossing biblical boundaries to present the gospel to 5th graders, PhD's, or those with no theistic background? What is permissable? What crosses the line? How do you establish those boundaries?

In my church I reference a missionary named Lottie Moon. She was an amazing woman who literally gave her food away to those she served so they could eat, leaving her to die of starvation. As a missionary to China, she adopted several Chinese cultural characteristics in order to reach the people she was called to serve. She adopted the language, dress and aspects of the culture as her own. I don't ever recall reading where she entered a Buddhist temple and wrote prayers on pieces of paper, then sacrificially burned them so they reached God. I haven't read of her going to Buddhist temples and joining the locals in prayer as a means to build a bridge. What she did was make tea cookies and give them away, worked to end the practice of foot binding, opium smoking and hunger. And as the picture to the left displays, she dressed and even fixed her hair in a similar way to the Chinese.

Serving in the late 1800's, she didn't have the opportunity to be part of the discussion of my denomination's international mission agency's (IMB) policy on contextualization (particularly in the Muslim world). Speaking to the C1-C6 spectrum, the IMB draws the line at C4. The fear with any form of contextualization is moving towards syncretism, so the policy seeks to address that boundary.

After reading through this section of MissionSHIFT, it is encouraging to know there are some well qualified leaders across denominational lines that are seeking to understand and clarify the need for contextualization and also sound clear warnings when the line is pushed beyond orthodox belief's towards syncretism. Reading what they have to say is helping me shape my understanding and practices as well. Whether the context is cross-cultural from Southern Ohio to a Muslim nation or from rural Appalachia to an urban center on the West Coast, contextualization needs to spring from some core elements.

The Bible is my guide, it is inerrant and infallible. It provides specific examples of contextualization as models to reach the nations (Acts). It provides the perfect example of leaving one 'culture' to engage another 'culture' through Jesus' incarnation. Contextualization needs to be approached with limited personal cultural bias (recognizing it will be present), being sensitive to the particular culture being reached (without adopting every aspect of that culture leading to syncretism). After all, if I truly believe the biblical gospel, I should always be reminded that it is Jesus Christ who will transform culture, not my particular culture that will change culture.

When I think of contextualization, I can't help but think of these words from the Apostle Paul:

For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them. To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law. To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings. (1 Corinthians 9:19-23 ESV)

Paul did this in order that he would have the opportunity to share the gospel and 'some' might be saved. He did it all for the sake of the gospel. Not for his cultural background, preferences, or distinctives. That is an example worth following!

Defiant Joy

2011-01-27T14:41:00.000-05:00

Kevin Belmonte's biography of G.K. Chesterton is part biography and part literary anthology. Defiant Joy: The Remarkable Life & Impact of G.K. Chesterton is an excellent overview of the literary genius of Chesterton and provides insight into his personal life.

Chesterton had an ability with words that combined wit, humor, keen insight and knowledge together enabling him to write literary criticisms, poetry, novels, and journalistic work. Exploring such topics of religion, culture, politics, and literature, Chesterton was a master of the written word.

Belmonte adds to a growing collection of biographies, anthologies, and other works exploring the life of Chesterton. Defiant Joy is a great primer on Chesterton and provides enough information to give not only an introduction to those unfamiliar with Chesterton, but pull together background from a wide range of sources for those more familiar with Chesterton. Well documented and with a brief bibliography, Belmonte's work will no doubt serve as a spring board to further discovery of the life and impact of G.K. Chesterton.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Booksneeze.com (Thomas Nelson Publishers) as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Perfect Pastor

2011-01-24T20:10:00.000-05:00

I have been in pastoral ministry a long time. As I carefully discerned my call, sought out counsel from trusted pastors and friends, and spent much time in prayer, I surrendered to pastoral ministry. Licensed in 1998 and subsequently ordained in 1999, I have served two previous churches in Kentucky (Calvary Baptist Church in Berea KY and First Baptist Church, Worthington, in Worthington KY) and currently serve First Southern Baptist Church in South Point OH. In March I will celebrate 5 years pastoring my current congregation.

Throughout these years God has revealed many areas of weakness, sinful attitudes, and areas of immaturity. While I have matured and grown, I recognize there is so much more that needs to be chipped away, and I am continually grateful for the grace of God. I am not perfect by any means. I will fail. I will sin. But He is faithful and just, He will forgive my sin, He will never leave me nor forsake me!

It can be easy for pastors today to take their focus off Christ and begin to be men pleasers, attempting to make everyone happy, striving for perfection. Between meeting expectations of church members, attempting to manage church issues, spending quality time with family, preparing adequately for sermons, and on and on, there can be an unhealthy desire build within the pastor to please others, striving to be perfect. How do I know? There have been times when I have been guilty of trying to please man, not Christ.

I ran across this poem below (on this blog) that describes the perfect pastor. Take it tongue-in-cheek. Watch placing unhealthy and unrealistic expectations on your pastor, he already struggles with placing them on himself. Love him. Pray for him. Encourage him. Don't expect him to be perfect. Take him to Starbuck's, buy him a cup of coffee, read this poem together, and laugh with him.

I thank my God upon every remembrance of First Southern Baptist Church. I love the members deeply, and continue to grow in that love. They know I am not perfect (and I know they are not perfect) but together we know we serve a Perfect Savior!

The perfect pastor preaches exactly 10 minutes. He condemns sin roundly but never hurts anyone’s feelings. He works from 8 AM until midnight and is also the church janitor. The perfect pastor makes $40 a week, wears good clothes, drives a good car, buys good books, and donates $30 a week to the church. He is 29 years old and has 40 years experience. He never forgets a name and spends most of his time praying to God. Above all, he is handsome.

He also knows when somebody is sick and needs visitation even without anyone telling him about it. He loves to spend time with his family and the perfect pastor has no problem with you dropping in unexpectedly. And he also spends most of his time in preparation to speak God’s Word. He remembers everyone’s birthdate and of course, their anniversary dates as well. Before and after services, he never fails to speak to each person present and will also take the time to listen to you for 15 minutes and pray for each person no less than 10 minutes after listening to them.

The perfect pastor always smiles and tells you what you want to hear. He also goes out to eat after church with each individual family, spreading his time evenly between all, and he also pays for all their meals. The perfect pastor eats nutritiously, gets his rest, exercises daily, and is always there to listen to you night or day. The perfect pastor has a burning desire to work with teenagers, and he spends most of his time with the senior citizens. He smiles all the time with a straight face because he has a sense of humor that keeps him seriously dedicated to his church. He makes 15 home visits a day and is always in his office to be handy when needed.

The perfect pastor always has time for church council and all of its committees. He never misses the meeting of any church organization and is always busy evangelizing the unchurched. He meets with the all the other pastors in town because they all have so much time on their hands. He also stays focused on the vision of the house. And he attends all the town meetings for PR’s sake. He takes family vacations and attends all the latest church and ministers conferences and listens to your favorite TV preachers and is completely up to date on each prominent TV preacher’s messages. He spends all day each Saturday preparing the Sunday sermon, and he focuses on his family too. He also doesn’t overburden the church finances, so he holds down a full time secular job as well. He never spends your tithes on his children’s Baskin Robins Ice Cream cones. (Author unkown)

Check out this blog

2011-01-21T09:57:00.000-05:00

Moody Press unveiled a blog this week called Inside Pages. This week they have had some great posts and even better give-a-aways. It is defintinely worth checking out...

Review Roundup

2011-01-18T10:35:00.000-05:00

I have read several books over the last month or so and rather than posting an individual review for each one, I am going to post some mini-reviews in one post. Enjoy!

The Jesus Inquest by Charles Foster

Before Easter each year I like to read at least one new book dealing with the Resurrection. This book is one I hope to read again this year. In some ways it is similar to Lee Strobel (The Case for the Resurrection) and Mike Licona (The Case for the Resurrection of Jesus) in that it seeks to present objective fact to build a case for the Resurrection. The difference, Foster presents the Resurrection event from both sides of the debate: believer and skeptic.

As a trial lawyer, Foster wrestled with the issue of the Resurrection and set out to find reassurance for what he believed. Through the process of research and study, Foster finds himself with more questions than he had before, and through extensive study and research, and being compelled by the gospel accounts themselves, the end result is The Jesus Inquest. The book unfolds as both sides of the debate are well-written, documented and presented (would you expect anything less from a trial lawyer).

The book follows the debate from two individuals (both written by Foster) as X and Y. The skeptic, X, speaks first with the believer, Y presenting their side of the issue. This book does an excellent job of presenting both sides of the issue and would be a great resource for pastor's, teachers, and anyone interested in apologetics. After exploring medical evidence, ancient myths, the biblical record, and gaining insight from both sides of the issue preparing one to thoroughly defend the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Booksneeze.com (Thomas Nelson Publishers) as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Decision Points by George W. Bush

I was very thankful to get this as a Christmas gift. While I didn't agree with every decision President Bush made during his time in office, his presidency was one I respected and continue to learn from. Part biographical, part presidential memoir, this work focuses on the 10 most important decisions faced by President Bush and reveals the though processes involved in making them. Beginning with his decision to quit drinking and covering such topics as 9/11, the war on terrorism, Hurricane Katrina, and some legislative highs and lows, it presents a side of the President not reflected through the media.

Very raw, honest, and transparent, this memoir is one that will no doubt lead to greater discussion of President Bush's time in office. The impact of a presidency must be viewed through the lens of time and history, and whether one agrees at this moment or not, I believe the presidency of George W. Bush will counted as one of the top in our nations history. But don't try to argue this point with me, again only time and history will tell, and by then we both will be gone!

Coming Back STRONGER by Drew Brees with Chris Fabry

This is not a book I would typically read, but thought I would take a break from my normal genres. Brees begins his memoir describing his near career-ending injury while playing for the Chargers. He then moves further back in his story and shares some family history and recounts how his sports life and faith converged. From this point the memoir explores the chance the Saints took on Brees, the impact of Hurricane Katrina on the city of New Orleans, and the Saints rise to become Superbowl Champions. While some would say the city of New Orleans and the Saints needed Drew Brees, he would say he needed them.

I admire Drew Brees and appreciate his willingness to be open about his faith, his love for his family, and his love for football and found myself paying closer attention to him this past season. After my team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was out of the wild card position I was pulling for New Orleans. Unfortunately the Seahawks brought that to an end this season. Nonetheless, I will in all likelihood follow Drew Brees closer in future seasons. Brees is a great role model, based on his life up to this point, and I hope he remains the type of person and player that he is throughout the rest of his career and life.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The NEXT Christians by Gabe Lyons

If the church in America today is examined honestly, it would reveal areas of great concern and pessimism. What Gabe Lyons has done in this book is share with great passion their is reason to have great optimism today. A generation of young Christians from diverse denominational backgrounds are bringing a fresh view of not on the term 'Christian' but also what the Christian life looks like when it is lived out.

Lyons presents six characteristics that the next generation of Christians are living out:

they are provoked to action, not offended
they are creative, not critical
they are called to jobs, not employed in vocational work
they are grounded (in Scripture, fasting, prayer, etc), not distracted
they are living in community, not isolated and alone
they are countercultural, not relevant

As this next generation of Christians live out the faith once for all delivered to the saints, it will renew and ignite a much needed transformation. While issues of faith will continually be discussed, debated, and defended, it is encouraging to read of the resurgence of faith in the next generation. At times provocative and challenging, at times encouraging and uplifting, The NEXT Christians will leave you looking forward to the things in store for the future.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

MissionSHIFT: A blog conversation

2011-01-17T16:32:00.000-05:00

I am participating in an on-line blog discussion of MissionSHIFT over the next several weeks. This discussion will be facilitated by Ed Stetzer and is open to anyone who wants to read the book. About 50 bloggers initially 'signed up' to participate and were provided the book by Ed Stetzer. Today's discussion covers the first 1/3 of the book, an essay by Charles Van Engen and five responses to his essay by Enoch Wan, Darrell Guder, Andreas Kostenberger, Keith Eitel and Ed Stetzer.

The thesis of Van Engen's essay, "Mission" Defined and Described, seeks to address the 'PAST' of what has been called "missions" (p7). Van Engen provides a brief, and at times generalized, overview of how the word 'missions' has been defined from the time of Constantine through the loosely networked emergent movement.

Before delving into how 'mission' has been defined through history, Van Engen acknowledges the multiple uses and definitions of the word today and proceeds to gives a concise explanation of the biblical usage and meaning of 'mission'. After explaining two Greek words used in the NT, the majority of the essay examines the historical context of the definition of 'mission' and how that definition influenced the way in which 'mission' was acted upon by the church. Before closing out his essay Van Engen suggests seven characteristics of a missional church: contextual, intentional, proclaiming, reconciling, sanctifying, unifying, and transforming (p24, 25). In his conclusion, we finally hear his definition of 'mission', a 101 word, single sentence (tentative) definition.

Following his essay are the responses of those mentioned above. A couple of the responses deal directly with Van Engen's essay while a couple tend to voice thoughts/concerns about 'mission' without directly dialoguing the with essay. If you are interested in each of those responses, I would encourage you to get a copy of the book and spend some time reading them personally. I will share some of what I gained from the initial essay.

I found it helpful to get an overview of the PAST, as Van Engen's thesis posited to explore. I am a pastor, not a theology professor nor a missiologist, so this provided a bit of historical context to the discussion around the word 'mission'. Too often pastor's can't see the forest from the trees, and in some cases, cant' see the trees from the leaves (that illustration is from Danny Akin). Stepping back and getting an overview of the forest, although generalized and brief, brings to light the ongoing desire of the church to engage culture. While those attempts had both positive and negative outcomes, and certain 'models' might have become entrenched within the faith community through denominational institutionalization, it is apparent the burden to engage in mission has been a high priority component of the church (universally, maybe not always locally) throughout history.

Van Engen's approach at presenting his tentative, working definition is also helpful. It lays a foundation that is reflected in the responses to his essay that there isn't one concise definition. Pastor's have a tendency to put forth THE definition of a word; one that is firm, exact, complete. Defining 'mission' is a difficult process and describing it can be just as frustrating. No doubt my definition will differ greatly from others based on my history, my geographical location, my church background, my community, my experiences, etc. Ask Ed Stetzer to put forth a definition, and it no doubt would make mine pale in comparison. That is not saying his is right, and mine would be wrong. It highlights the challenge in bringing believers from various backgrounds together to define a biblical concept.

For me, the essence of mission is expressed in the following way: it is being sent by the commission of Christ, in the power of the Holy Spirit, to make the name of God known among men. It involves presenting the gospel (there is another term that can yield a multitude of definitions) to man explaining that through repentance of sin and faith in the completed work of Jesus Christ at Calvary man can be reconciled to God, forgiven of sin, and subsequently they become sent as well. In the same way that Van Engen presents a 'tentative' definition, I do the same. How that 'mission' is described and acted upon today very well may be something different tomorrow. Using the very cliched phrase, the message doesn't change, but the method may.

I look forward to the ensuing discussion from a wide range of bloggers and want to thank Ed Stetzer for engaging others in this way. Reading from a cross-section of missiologists, theology professors, pastors and others, and then discussing these concepts, will be an invaluable way to push my own understanding and bring clarity in those areas that are cloudy. Feel free to leave any questions or comments on my blog or you can post them here.

Preparing for Spiritual Renewal, Part 1

2011-01-02T22:12:00.000-05:00

During this month our church will be joining with thousands of our sister Southern Baptist Church’s in a time of preparation for a Day of Prayer: A Solemn Assembly for Prayer, Fasting and Repentance.

Let me share with you the ‘why’ and the ‘objective’ behind this special day.

Why: We have forgotten our first love (Revelation 2:4) and need revival in SBC. We need God's direction.

Objective: The goal is for all of us to “Be still and know that God is God,” as a sign of our humility and desire to wholeheartedly return to Him. By our being still before Him (see Psalm 46:10), we exalt our God and position ourselves to obey the Great Commandment found in Mark 12:29-31 and the Great Commission our Lord gave in Matthew 28:18-20.[1]

This is not something new to SB, in fact, more than 20 years ago a call to hold a solemn assembly was issued by the prayer leaders for the convention, including Henry Blackaby, Avery Willis and T. W. Hunt. In fact, these are not something new to the people of God. Throughout the OT numerous solemn assemblies were given by various prophets, priests or kings to the people of Israel.

· Rehoboam ~ 2 Chronicles 12:1-8

· Asa ~ 2 Chronicles 15:1-19

· Jehoshaphat ~ 2 Chronicles 20:1-29

· Hezekiah ~ 2 Chronicles 29-31

· Josiah ~ 2 Chronicles 34

· Ezra ~ Ezra 10:7-9

· Nehemiah ~ Nehemiah 8-9

· Joel ~ Joel 1-2

The “day of the Lord” is the dominant theme of the book of Joel. Both the nations (3:2–3) and Israel (1:15; 2:1–2) experience this judgment. However, for the repentant community, the “day” also holds out the hope of restoration (2:12–14). This is evidenced by God’s care for the people, His desire for hearts that are torn, not just their clothes, and that the people would have a deep and whole-hearted love for God.

We must HEAR the Lord

Joel 1:1, 2 (NKJV) ¹The word of the Lord that came to Joel the son of Pethuel. ²Hear this, you elders, And give ear, all you inhabitants of the land! Has anything like this happened in your days, Or even in the days of your fathers?

We don’t know very much about Joel, other than the name of his father and that he was a prophet. The focus isn’t Joel, rather it is the Lord.

The word is directed first to the elders, in this case those who are older and mature. Then, to all the inhabitants of the land. Everyone is called to listen and hear. They are asked to consider their present circumstances and recognize how severe things had become.

TELL the next generation you lived through it

Joel 1:3, 4 (NKJV) ³Tell your children about it, Let your children tell their children, And their children another generation. ⁴What the chewing locust left, the swarming locust has eaten; What the swarming locust left, the crawling locust has eaten; And what the crawling locust left, the consuming locust has eaten.

The people are to tell the next generation of these things. It would serve as a reminder of how far they had gotten from God, and how merciful and gracious He is when repentance takes place. They needed to tell their children they lived through the plague of locusts and the devastation it caused.

Chewing locust, swarming locust, crawling locust, consuming locust (KJV ~ Joel 1:4 That which the palmerworm hath left hath the locust eaten; and that which the locust hath left hath the cankerworm eaten; and that which the cankerworm hath left hath the caterpiller eaten.): This was an overwhelming infestation of locusts that devastated the crops, in turn devastating the economy and finances of the people, the brining of offerings before the Lord, and brought a physical famine and a spiritual famine. The four different words in the Hebrew describe the actions of the locusts, not four different types of insect.

In 1915 a devastating plague of locusts covered what is modern-day Israel and Syria. The first swarms came in March, in clouds so thick they blocked out the sun. The female locusts immediately began to lay eggs, 100 at a time. Witnesses say that in one square yard, there were as many as 65,000 to 75,000 eggs. In a few weeks they hatched, and the young locusts resembled large ants. They couldn’t fly yet, and got along by hopping. They marched along 400 to 600 feet a day, devouring every speck of vegetation along the way. After two more stages of molting they became adults who could fly - and the devastation continued. – David Guzik

The wine is cut off from the drunkards

Joel 1:5 (NKJV) ⁵Awake, you drunkards, and weep; And wail, all you drinkers of wine, Because of the new wine, For it has been cut off from your mouth. Verse 5: all the wine is cut off from the drunkard's mouth.

An enemy has destroyed the vine and the fig tree

Joel 1:7 (NKJV) ⁷He has laid waste My vine, And ruined My fig tree; He has stripped it bare and thrown it away; Its branches are made white.

The offerings can’t be brought to the house of the Lord

Joel 1:9 (NKJV) ⁹The grain offering and the drink offering Have been cut off from the house of the Lord; The priests mourn, who minister to the Lord.

The farmers and vinedressers are filled with shame

Joel 1:11, 12a (NKJV) ¹¹Be ashamed, you farmers, Wail, you vinedressers, For the wheat and the barley; Because the harvest of the field has perished. ¹²The vine has dried up, And the fig tree has withered; The pomegranate tree, The palm tree also, And the apple tree— All the trees of the field are withered…

Because of this complete and utter devastation, the impact on everything around the people, and the way it affected the worship of God, the people have no joy.

Joel 1:12b (NKJV) Surely joy has withered away from the sons of men.

As a result, the Lord calls the priests to mourn over the devastation.

Joel 1:8, 13 (NKJV) ⁸Lament like a virgin girded with sackcloth For the husband of her youth. ¹³Gird yourselves and lament, you priests; Wail, you who minister before the altar; Come, lie all night in sackcloth, You who minister to my God; For the grain offering and the drink offering Are withheld from the house of your God.

Jesus says in Matthew 5:4 (NKJV) Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted.

After they mourn, a call to repent, fast and pray is given to the people ~ from the drunkards to the farmers to the priests to all the people.

Joel 1:14 (NKJV) ¹⁴Consecrate a fast, Call a sacred assembly; Gather the elders And all the inhabitants of the land Into the house of the Lord your God, And cry out to the Lord.

Joel also tells them how to do the work of repentance. (David Guzik)

· Consecrate a fast: Make getting right with God so important that even eating isn’t important

· Call a sacred assembly: Call for God’s people to come together and repent

· Gather the elders: The leaders of the people should make a special point to be part of the work of repentance

· Into the house of the Lord your God: Come to the place where you should meet together with God

· And cry out unto the Lord: Finally, simply cry out to God and trust that He will respond in mercy

¹⁵Alas for the day! For the day of the Lord is at hand; It shall come as destruction from the Almighty.

At this point, the crops were destroyed, there was nothing in the way of food for the animals or humans (v 16-20) and final judgment is met with utter desperation. Joel is describing the current situation for the people at the time, and yet, as we will see through the remainder of Joel, the Day of the Lord also speaks to those things that will happen at the end of the world. There is coming a day of the Lord like we have never imagined. For many, it shall come as destruction from the Almighty.

If final judgment is approaching, where do we turn?

Joel 1:19a (NKJV) ¹⁹O Lord, to You I cry out…

It is here that we see the call of Joel before God. It is the example each of us must have as well. O Lord, to you I cry out…

In repentance for sin; receiving forgiveness of our sin through the sacrificial death of Jesus at Calvary.

In fasting; displaying our utter dependence on God for our very life.

In prayer; understanding God is the true and living God, and there is no other like Him.

As a church, we will continue to seek God through repentance, fasting and prayer throughout this month, and on Sunday Jan 30^th we will take the morning worship time and have solemn assembly. Spend this month in prayer, asking God to reveal sin in your life. Spend this month in His Word, allowing it to reveal our sin and other blindspots, and then hide it our hearts that we might sin against Him. Spend this month preparing for the solemn assembly, where we, as a church, will spend the morning in repentance and prayer.

[1] http://www.namb.net/sbcdayofprayer/

A snapshot of the 'to read in 2011' pile

2010-12-30T15:25:00.000-05:00

This is a brief snapshot of what I am going to be reading in the new year. A couple of these are re-reads, but most will be first time reads. These are the books on my bookshelf, but I have several on my ereader and in Kindle format, and several on my desk at home ( including President Bush's book 'Decision Points', Charles Foster's 'Jesus Inquest', Drew Brees' 'Coming Back Stronger, and 'The Life of Martin Luther') to read as well. In addition to these, I will be reading many books throughout the year for sermon research/prep and also books through the blog review programs I participate with. It's going to be a fun year! What are you planning to read in 2011?

God's Glory in Salvation Through Judgment

2010-12-27T12:05:00.000-05:00

James M. Hamilton JR.'s biblical theology centers on God's glory in salvation through judgment. Hamilton views each book of the Bible through a lens of judgment, revealing man's sinfulness and need of a Savior. It is through understanding judgment that man is able to see and understand salvation. When salvation is received, God's glory is evident.

This biblical theology will provide the reader with great insight into each book of the Bible, as well as connecting the dots between each book, and the OT/NT in general. Apart from bringing a different perspective on the big picture of God's unfolding story, it is a solid biblical theology text and will aid the pastor in his studies. The final chapter, applying Hamilton's thesis to ministry today, was particularly helpful.

Even if one doesn't agree with each point that is made, there is no doubt the reader will sense anew God's glory and holiness. Through that lens one will understand God's righteous judgment leading to a deeper appreciation of salvation. For bible expositor's, this will be a very helpful book, one that I will reach for often.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A brief look into

2010-12-27T10:50:00.000-05:00

At the end of each year I share a 'state of the church' sermon. It is here that I share some of the preaching plan for the next year, a couple of passages that God has challenged me with, and share a vision of where God is leading me, and prayerfully, the church. The challenge given yesterday had three areas of focus: 1) renew what church membership is and isn't (looking to reconnect inactive members); 2) grow together towards greater maturity, balancing opposing tendencies of legalism and liberty; and 3) cooperating more as a body of believers, not competing. As we focus on these three areas, we commit to love God, love others, and share Jesus throughout the year.

As I reflect on the past year, I see God's sovereign guidance everywhere. He has taught me a wide range of things: incorporating biblical theology into preaching/counseling, deepening a desire for gospel-centered evangelism, church planting, missions, listening better to criticism, dealing with difficult situations and issue. God has also revealed some blindspots and areas of sin in my life that will be an area of focus personally.

I posted a tentative preaching schedule earlier, you can read it here, and 2011 looks to be a great year. I am not sure how everything will develop, but see ahead where we need to be. One area I am particularly excited about is emphasizing church membership. Together the with the deacons and church body, we have committed to review our membership roll, reach out and minister to those called 'inactive' and make efforts to reclaim and reconnect them to the membership of our church. Again, I am not sure how this will happen or what it will look like, but I will share updates throughout the year for other pastors interested in helping their church do the same.

Throughout the year I will continue Professor Grant Horner's Bible Reading System, use Tim Brister's Partnering to Remember (memorizing the book of Philippians, and then develop a plan for Galatians), and read a slew of books. In addition, I am going to be a part of the Tim Keller Reading Group through PLNTD and a January reading group/blog with Ed Stetzer.

I will celebrate 5 years of ministry at First Southern Baptist Church, South Point in 2011. I am truly blessed to pastor such a great faith family. Together we have grown towards maturity, with a long way to go, but pressing on to that goal that is before us. It is exciting and refreshing to be around such a great believers, to witness the spiritual growth and maturity through their lives, hear how they are sharing the gospel with friends and praying with strangers. Again, I am truly blessed!

This is just a brief look at 2011 and I look forward to see what unfolds!

Can a Christian be a Christian and ...?

2010-12-20T20:06:00.001-05:00

Drink socially? Watch R-rated movies? Have a social conscience? Too often Christians struggle with these 'gray' area issues, primarily due to a lack of understanding of the Bible's stance on some issues, confusion over freedom in Christ and legalism, and a divide between biblical thinking and biblical living.

Brent Crowe puts forth an excellent and timely approach to the believer's freedom in Christ and how that freedom is applied to some issues that are not addressed specifically in the Bible. Chasing Elephants examines liberty and freedom in Christ against responsibility and love of God and others. Brent Crowe provides a thorough examination of freedom in Christ and provides a list of questions to view these gray areas through. He then looks at several areas, using those questions, sharing how he reached his decisions in those areas.

Believers will benefit greatly from this book, enabling them to approach gray areas with a biblical lens of wisdom and discernment. We would be well served to develop an ability to explain clearly and biblically how we have reached the convictions we have, even when we might reach different convictions.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Why are there 4 gospels?

2010-12-20T09:13:00.000-05:00

Why are Matthew, Mark and Luke called the synoptic gospels? Which gospel was written first? Why are there differences between them? Why is the gospel of John so different? What is Q?

If you have ever wondered about these or other questions, then T. D. Alexander's book, Discovering Jesus: Why Four Gospels to Portray One Person?, provides an excellent overview that will begin to answer those questions. After providing an brief overview and then highlighting the common themes between the four gospels, Alexander covers each gospel with two chapters. It is here that the unique aspects of each gospel is explained, covering such areas as audience, authorship, date, and the portrait of Jesus that is being recorded.

The book is a well-written, simple to understand, and a much needed overview of the gospels. While providing a solid overview, it doesn't use academic and theological words, making it easy for the person in the pew to read. I will reference this work in my teaching of New Testament survey to my church when we cover the gospels, and will recommend it to anyone wanting to gain a greater understanding of Jesus through the gospels.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

slave

2010-12-16T11:24:00.001-05:00

This is MacArthur at his best! While I am a long time reader of MacArthur this book was like reading him for the first time. Exploring the Greek word duolos, slave, MacArthur details how he started down the path to understand this oft mistranslated and neglected word and it's connection with being a disciple of Christ.

MacArthur-esque, slave: The Hidden Truth About Your Identity in Christ, is thoroughly supported with scripture, containing references to other scholars, writers, and voices throughout Christian history, and connecting the OT understanding of slave with the NT concept of slave.

MacArthur draws out the biblical understanding of this word, clearly establishing a case for using slave rather than servant (as most translations do). In addition, the doctrines of grace are explored as MacArthur examines deep and rich biblical truths of bondage to sin, redemption, and adoption. Continuing to issue a call against today's 'easy believism', the last words of MacArthur's book says it all, "To be a Christian is to be a slave to Christ."

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Booksneeze.com (Thomas Nelson Publishers) as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Preaching Plan for 2011

2010-12-14T13:13:00.000-05:00

The last couple of years I have tried to spend some time developing a preaching schedule for the upcoming year. While some might not think a pastor should plan for a years worth (or more) of sermons, there are several reasons for doing this:

1. It provides adequate time to spend in prayer and study.
2. It prevents last minute, 'Saturday night' special prayer and fasting sessions for something to preach.
3. It pushes me to preach through books of the Bible, covering difficult passages.
4. It keeps me from preaching my 'pet passages' or topics that I like.
5. It allows the congregation to develop a deeper love for the Word of God, how the OT and NT are connected, and builds a stronger biblical worldview.

There are many more but this gives an idea why I plan out my preaching. To begin, I spend much time in prayer and fasting to seek direction/guidance for me and our church. I review the books I have preached, what I am preaching through currently and begin to look at a couple of books to preach through. I try to have a balance of OT and NT books each year. This year, there were four books I was praying about: Romans, 1 Corinthians, Nehemiah, and Galatians. There are also a couple of topical areas that come to the front of my planning as I look at what is going on in the SBC, our state, association and our church. After praying about these areas, they are narrowed down to the one or two we will cover.

After spending several weeks going through books, topics, and the like, I begin to put it together in an excel database I developed. It covers Sunday AM and PM services, as well as Wednesday night services. Each series is blocked in, some with an exact number of sessions, some with a general time-frame, and on rare occasions sermon titles already in place.

This next year the tentative plan will be as follows (I say tentative because even with a plan, I strive to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and my plan is always flexible to His!):

Sunday AM
Jan ~ Focus on personal renewal/revival (in conjunction with the SBC National Call to Spiritual Renewal)
Feb ~ begin series on 9 marks of a healthy church
Apr ~ Palm Sunday/Easter Sunday services, leading into a series on living in light of the Resurrection
June (through Dec) ~ Begin a series on 1 Corinthians
Dec 25th ~ Christmas Day

Sunday PM
Jan (through May) ~ complete series on Job
May (through July) ~ 7 Sermons on the Psalms (Psalm 15-21)
July (through Oct) ~ Series on Galatians
Oct (through end of year) ~ 7 Sermons on the Psalms (Psalm 22-25, with 26-28 in Jan)

Wednesday Evening Bible Study
Jan ~ begin Lifeway JBS series on Galatians
Feb (through Aug) ~ The Story of Jesus, Part II (Survey of NT)
Sep (through Dec) ~ Series on Evangelism

Again, these are all tentative, and there are days worked in for flexibility. I thank God for the call He has placed on my life and desire to honor that call. Planning my schedule allows me to be a good steward of my time (in planning and sermon preparation) as well as gathering the needed resources for each series.

I am looking forward to another great year of ministry!

Jesus' Family Tree: John 1

2010-12-13T16:10:00.000-05:00

Matthew ~ Jesus is King of the Jews Luke ~ Jesus is Savior of all men

John ~ Jesus is the Divine Word, Jesus is the “I Am” (equal with God). He writes in such a way to present Jesus as God to the Jews and to the Greeks. In fact, this gospel record is the only one with a clear purpose stated.

John 20:31 (NKJV) ³¹but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.

So John clearly states that Jesus is the Son of God, and that what has been written is so those who hear/read it will believe and have life in His name.

John 1:1-3 (NKJV) ¹In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ²He was in the beginning with God. ³All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.

In the opening words of his account of the gospel of Jesus, John addresses the deity of Jesus and the Incarnation of Jesus. The Incarnation is the word used to describe the birth of Jesus, God in flesh.

Mark Johnson writes, “Without apology or qualification, John goes back in time beyond Bethlehem where Jesus was born, and Nazareth where he was conceived, indeed back beyond the beginning of time itself, and allows us a glimpse of a glorious person who has an eternal existence.”[1]

John 1:1 is one of the most profound verses in all of Scripture which explains why it is a verse that is constantly under attack. In this verse we have a clear and definitive statement regarding Jesus as the second person of the Trinity, that He always existed, that He was with God, and that He was God.

From the earliest days of Christendom the doctrine of the Deity and Incarnation of Jesus Christ has been under attack.

Martin Luther stated, “This text is a strong and valid attestation of the divinity of Christ… Everything depends on this doctrine. It serves to maintain and support all other doctrines of our Christian faith. Therefore the devil assailed it very early in the history of Christendom, and he continues to do so in our day.”[2]

On this verse historic, biblical Christianity divides from all other world religions and cults. Judaism, Islam, Mormonism, and Jehovah’s Witnesses are among some of the more prominent beliefs who deny these truths. Judaism rejects Jesus, Islam believes in Allah, not Jesus. Mormons believe Jesus was a created son, along with Lucifer, and therefore man can become a god. JW’s believe Jesus is a created being, not the eternal Son of God.

In the beginning was the Word. John uses the Greek word, ‘logos’ that had a philosophic connection, in which the term was essentially impersonal, signifying the rational principle of "divine reason," "mind," or even "wisdom."^{^[3]}

This particular Greek word was used to build a bridge to Gentiles and present the truth of Jesus as the Word. John’s intent is not to get philosophical with the Gentiles, but to get theological. He unpacks his use of this Greek word in this chapter, revealing the Word as the divine, pre-existent, incarnate Son of God.

Those with a Jewish background would have picked up on something else in John’s testimony. A little phrase, ‘in the beginning.’

Doesn’t that sound familiar? Where do we here a similar verse.

It is not an oversight that John 1:1 sounds familiar to Genesis 1:1. In the beginning. John is establishing the truth that Jesus has always been.

The Bible tells us that Jesus was in the beginning, was with God in the beginning, and is God! Now, listen to John 1:3 again.

John 1:3 (NKJV) ³All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.

When Genesis 1:26 tells us God said, ‘Let Us make man in our image’ the Us is the Trinity, God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.

Jesus was not created by God as were the angels, the earth, the trees, the animals and man. Jesus created all those things in concert with God. Colossians 1:15-18 tells us that in Jesus all things are held together.

So, in the beginning was the Word. The Word was with God. The Word was God. Not a god as the JW’s erroneously teach. Not created as the Mormons would erroneously teach. Jesus is in fact God.

Apart from Jesus Christ being divine, he becomes a mere man. If Jesus is a mere man, then He can’t be the promised redeemer of mankind because no man has the ability to be the atonement for the sin of all man. No man can be the mediator between God and man because we are totally sinful, totally depraved.

John 1:14-18 (NKJV) ¹⁴And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. ¹⁵John bore witness of Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me.’ ” ¹⁶And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. ¹⁷For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. ¹⁸No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.

So the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.

Here we reach John’s testimony of the Christmas story. No angelic announcements, no shepherds in a field, no wise men, no ancestral genealogy. John’s account focus’ on the deity of Jesus Christ rather than the lineage of Joseph of Mary.

The idea of God dwelling with the people was extremely important to the Jews throughout the OT. The tabernacle was the epicenter of worship, for that is where God’s Spirit dwelt. Now John introduces the faith-shaking truth that God stepped out of heaven in the Person of Christ and dwelt among us. The Word is now flesh. This is the thrust behind the Incarnation. God dwelt with man as the Man Christ Jesus.

We know this is Jesus because of what John wrote in verse 17. Jesus is the Word. The Word is Jesus. Jesus is God. God is Jesus.

So Jesus came in flesh, in the likeness of man, in flesh, but did not have a sin nature. Because Jesus is fully God and fully man He alone fulfills OT prophecy to be our Redeemer, our Mediator.

1 Timothy 2:5 (NKJV) For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus.

So we know that the Word is Jesus and Jesus is the Word. We know that Jesus is God and God is Jesus. We know that Jesus is our Mediator and the Mediator is Jesus.

Unfortunately, we also know the world did not know Him.

John 1:9, 10 (NKJV) ⁹That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world. ¹⁰He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. ¹¹He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him.

Jesus came into the world He made, but the world did not know Him. Jesus’ ministry was first for the Jew, He came to His own, but they rejected Him, they did not receive Him.

The OT promises point to a coming Messiah, a Redeemer, a Mediator. For centuries the Jews were anticipating a Messiah yet they failed to receive Jesus.

Today, many people are looking for a Savior. Their lives are filled with functional saviors. Those things they place their hope in to make things better, to give some sense of security, something to hold on too. The reality is no functional savior can do what Jesus has already done. It is only through the completed work of Jesus Christ as the virgin born Son of God, who lived the life we cannot live to die the death we deserved to give us the life we can’t earn. That is why John speaks of the new birth in the next few verses.

John 1:12, 13 (NKJV) ¹²But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: ¹³who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Those who are born of God. Born a second time, as Jesus discusses with Nicodemus in John 3. This morning a gift is offered to everyone. Some will reject it, others will receive it. When you receive it, you become a child of God. This is the result of the Christmas story. The Christmas Story is revealed only through the Incarnation, that God dwelt among us in flesh as God the Son, Jesus Christ.

The Maker of the universe
As Man, for man was made a curse.
The claims of Law which He had made
Unto the uttermost He paid.

His holy fingers made the bough
Which grew the thorns that crowned His brow.
The nails that pierced His hands were mined
In secret places He designed.
He made the forest whence there sprung
The tree on which His body hung.
He died upon a cross of wood
Yet made the hill on which it stood.
The sky that darkened o’er His head
By Him above the earth was spread.
The sun that hid from Him its face
By His decree was poised in space.
The spear which spilled His precious blood
Was tempered in the fires of God.
The grave in which His form was laid
Was hewn in rocks His hands had made,
The throne on which He now appears
Was His from everlasting years.
But a new glory crowns His brow
And every knee to Him shall bow. (Author Unknown)

Because of God’s great love for mankind, He sent His only begotten Son, born of a virgin, to redeem sinful lost man. Immanuel, God in flesh, Jesus, the One who would save us from or sins, was born a tiny baby. He grew in wisdom and stature before God and man. He lived the perfect life that you and I can’t live. At the right time, Jesus endured the wrath of God against sin, being crucified and receiving the penalty for sin. He died the death you and I deserve. The, three days later, Jesus rose victoriously from the grave. Because He lives, those who have repented of their sin, received Jesus as Lord and Savior, now have the hope and promise that we too will be raised from the grave, and bow before our King in a celebration of praise and adoration like nothing we have ever seen. That, friends, is the end result of the Christmas story.

[1] Mark Johnson, Let’s Study John (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2003), 1.

[2] Martin Luther, Sermons on the Gospel of St. John, Chapters 1-4, Luther’s Works, v. 22 (St. Louis: CPH, 1957), 19, 25.

^{^[3]}MacArthur, John Jr: The MacArthur Study Bible. electronic ed. Nashville : Word Pub., 1997, c1997, S. Jn 1:1

Funniest book I have read in a long long time

2010-12-09T10:54:00.000-05:00

Matthew Turner's autobiographical book is one of the best books I have read in a long time. It was a page-turning, laugh-out-loud, well-written account of his personal experiences as a child adjusting from attending a Methodist church to being a member of an independent fundamental Baptist church.

Turner shares snippets of how his family's desire to follow God led them on this journey. Anyone who has been involved with church, no matter the denomination, will be reminded up how the perception of 5 year olds, 7 year olds, and teens regarding church are innocent, impressionable, and change over time. I neither grew up nor attended an independent fundamental Baptist church, but I know many who have. And yet, there are stories Turner includes that many children, no matter the denomination, experience.

Covering experiences that range from 'the right hair cut' to 'Jesus cookies' to 'KJV-onlyism' to 'finding words in the KJV of the Bible that are 'cuss' words', there will be some story that resonates with the reader.I found myself laughing at certain situations as I recalled the stories of my friends, or laughing at myself. And as a pastor, it is good to laugh at myself on occasion.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Apologetics for the 21st Century

2010-12-07T08:51:00.001-05:00

I believe every believer should be prepared to give a defense for the hope that is in us, with meekness and fear (1 Peter 3:15). Unfortunately, a majority never do this. While reasons vary from person to person, the bottom line really boils down to disobedience. So what should a believer do? I think the power of the Holy Spirit in us will guide us and lead us in our discussions when those opportunities arise, and we will be equipped with an ability to share our hope.

There are some individuals that seem to be particularly gifted in this area, and spend their lives dedicated to the field called 'apologetics'. Many believers (at best) aren't familiar with that term , or what is involved in giving a defense of the faith, once for all delievered to the saints. A few (at worst) take it the extreme and defend the faith (or their brand/version of it) with venomous defensive attacks against others.

Louis Markos' work, Apologetics for the 21st Century, is an excellent primer for those who know very little about apologetics but will also prove to be a great read for those very familiar with 'evidentialist' and 'presuppositional' apologetics (if you don't know there terms, don't worry about it for now!)

About half of the book provides an overview of apologists from the late 19th and 20th centuries. It is a great overview of individuals I was familiar with, such as C. S. Lewis and G. K. Chesterton, and those I wasn't as familiar with, such as Francis Shaeffer and Dorothy Sayers. A final chapter on Josh McDowell closes out the first section of the book.

The last section of the book examines multiple areas of apologetics being defended today, ie. the existence of God, the authority of Scripture, the resurrection and exclusivity of Jesus, neo-gnostics, the new atheism, post-moderns and intelligent design. As these topics are addressed, Markos pulls together a wide range of current apologists and develops clear and well articulated defenses.

I would recommend this book to those interested in the field of apologetics whether they knew nothing or thought they knew everything. Again, I believe every believer should be ready to give a defense for the hope in them, and this work does well at helping put together biblical truths in a way to communicate those truths.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Jesus' Family Tree: Luke 3:21-38

2010-12-06T10:46:00.000-05:00

Attributed to Jan Mostaert - The Tree of Jesse (c. 1520)

Luke 3:21-38

As we enter this Christmas season, my prayer for us is twofold: 1) that we would have a greater understanding of how Jesus is the fulfillment of OT promises and 2) our understanding would lead us into a greater love and deeper passion for Jesus in our personal lives and in our testimonies to a lost and dying world.

Matthew’s account of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is addressed to a primarily Jewish audience and he writes with a particular focus on Jesus as King.

Luke’s account of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is addressed primarily to Gentiles and he writes with a particular focus on Jesus as Savior of all men. Luke writes in such a way that we see Jesus’ compassion for those who are regarded as outcasts. This included Samaritans, women, children, tax collectors and Gentiles in general. We see this expressed throughout Luke’s Christmas story account.

By the angel to Mary

Luke 1:30, 31 (NKJV) ³⁰Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. ³¹And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus.

By the angel to the Shepherds

Luke 2:11 (NKJV) ¹¹For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

Through Simeon’s prophecy

Luke 2:32 (NKJV) ³²A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”

So, Jesus is the light that brings revelation to us as Gentiles, and our Savior.

To point to these truths, Luke places the genealogical record of Jesus, through the line of Mary, in a very interesting location in his gospel account, between the baptism and temptation of Jesus.

In the account of Jesus’ baptism, we hear God Himself speak in regards to Jesus, “You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased.” Then, as Luke moves to the genealogy we are again told that Jesus is God’s Son, He is not the Son of Joseph. At this point, Luke lays out the genealogy, showing that Jesus is indeed the Son of God.

This truth establishes again the veracity of the virgin birth, that Jesus, while fully human was also divinely conceived and therefore is fully God. It pointed out that Jesus did not have an earthly father.

As the genealogy progresses, Luke goes clear back to Adam, who was the first man created by God. In doing this, we begin to see amazing connections between Jesus, Adam, God, and man and how these connections all unite in the person and work of Jesus Christ, our Savior.

Why? What are we to learn from this? I’m glad you asked. We learn that in Adam, all man dies. We gain an understanding that while Jesus was God in flesh, He was fully human as well as fully God (next week we will examine the deity of Jesus). We see that Jesus was fully human but without sin. Because of this truth, He alone is the fulfillment of Gen 3:15 as the Promised Seed of the woman. Rather than look at the names in Luke’s genealogy, it will serve us well to read Luke 3:38 and then turn to two other passages and look closer at why and how Jesus is connected to Adam.

Luke 3:38 (NKJV) ³⁸the son of Enosh, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God.

Romans 5:12; 18, 19 (NKJV) ¹²Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned— ¹⁸Therefore, as through one man’s offense judgment came to all men, resulting in condemnation, even so through one Man’s righteous act the free gift came to all men, resulting in justification of life. ¹⁹For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.

Because of Adam’s sin, his rule over the earth was devastated. Jesus Christ, as the last Adam, came to reign over God’s creation as Lord and Savior of all man.

Because of Adam’s offense, all man will be judged, and stands condemned. In Christ, the last Adam, through His righteous act, which was His death, burial, resurrection and ascension, we are presented with the free gift of salvation. This gift of salvation, when received, justifies us. This justification is not based on anything we have done, but solely on what Jesus has done.

Because of Adam, all men are disobedient, born sinful. In Christ, the last Adam, we are imputed with the righteousness of Christ. This happens because He was obedient, to the point of death on the cross as the propitiation for our sin.

1 Corinthians 15:21, 45 (NKJV) ²¹For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead. ²²For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. ⁴⁵And so it is written, “The first man Adam became a living being.” The last Adam became a life-giving spirit.

Because of Adam, all men will die. In Christ, the second Adam, who was raised from the dead, we too will be raised from the dead.

When God created Adam out of the dust of the earth, God breathed his life, his soul into him. In Christ, called the last Adam, we receive eternal life, and are sealed by the Holy Spirit.

So Luke, through his genealogical record, establishes Jesus as the promised Seed from Gen 3:15, the Seed of the woman. This establishes Jesus’ full humanity.

Genesis 3:15 (NKJV) ¹⁵And I will put enmity Between you and the woman, And between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, And you shall bruise His heel.”

This also communicates that salvation is a gift to all man, not just the Jews. Again, this is reflected in the account of Luke’s story of Jesus, and His compassion for those who were considered outcasts, whether Jew or Gentile.

Living In God's Two Kingdoms

2010-12-02T14:50:00.000-05:00

What is a believer's role/responsibility in culture? Are we to work towards redeeming culture, engaging different aspects of society or retreat and live separate from culture? Should a believer engage in the political process to enact change or live paranoid of government, living in fear and isolation? What does it mean when the Bible says our citizenship is not of this world? Or that we are 'sojourners' on earth?

In Living In God's Two Kingdoms: A Biblical Vision for Christianity and Culture, VanDrunen examines these issues and brings to light what the Bible teaches about the believers role in both the culture as earthly citizens with those around us (including the lost) and how believers live as a 'chosen people' and live a life that is different because of our faith. In other words the book addresses how believers are to be in the world but not of the world.

The book explains well VanDrunen's view of the two kingdoms, one he calls the common kingdom (based on the Noahic covenant) and the other called the redemptive kingdom (based on the Abrahamic covenant). He then moves into a very detailed and clear discussion of the first Adam and the Last Adam. Following this is an examination of the OT and NT view of being a 'sojourner'. The final chapters address address how we live in the two kingdoms, through the church (earthly representation of the kingdom of heaven) and through three specific areas of culture (education, vocation and politics).

VanDrunen provides clear biblical support for his views and clears some of the confusion surrounding the debate regarding the believer's role in culture. Having personally dealt with those who feel Christians should be in all levels of government/administration/levels of societal influence in order to effectively change culture to those who are paranoid of any involvement by Christians in those areas, I found this book to be very helpful and would highly recommend it to both sides of the debate.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."