Thoughts from a Pauper

Is evil the absence of God?

2011-11-11T12:23:00.001-05:00

As much as I love this video, I have some problems with it. First, I'm not sure the event ever happened (http://www.snopes.com/religion/einstein.asp). Second, even if it is a convincing argument, I believe it is based on flawed theology:

Since God is omnipresent, his absence from anywhere is impossible. (King David was convinced of this - see Psalm 139)
Despite God's omnipresence, evil exists. It is not merely an adjective to describe something that is not good. It is an adjective that describes something that is intrinsically bad. God sent an evil spirit to Abimelech (Judg. 9:23). This wasn't an absence of himself. This was a truly wicked being who abhorred God and yet still submitted to our omnipresent and omnipotent God's command!
Evil is not the absence of God. Throughout Scripture, evil is a rejection of God. It is even worse that it is not an absence of God. When I choose to disobey and do evil, I do so in the very presence of my God and Savior.
Some say that God cannot be in the presence of evil, but this also is false. In Job 1, you have Satan (the very worst form of evil) appearing before God and conversing with Him - and the wording indicates this was a normal event. In our minds, Satan should melt in God's presence like most humans do. Instead, Satan has a conversation with God - giving him a report and even making a demand, which God accepts with some conditions.
The idea that God cannot dwell with evil comes from Habakkuk 1:13: "Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil, and canst not look on iniquity." (KJV) In NIV it says: "Your eyes are too pure to look on evil; you cannot tolerate wrongdoing." But looking at the context, you see that this is not a truth. It's a frustrated complaint. The prophet feels that God is ignoring and tolerating evil. He cannot understand how this is possible. God goes on to respond to the prophet and corrects his false assumptions. Justice will happen one day in the future. But today evil often wins...and God tolerates it. He is so patient, because He wants all to be saved! (2 Pet. 3:9)
In conclusion, please check my blog post about Hab. 1:13 here!

My Leftovers - Giving God and my Family my BEST

2011-11-10T11:23:00.001-05:00

Where did the RACES come from?

2011-10-18T14:33:00.001-04:00

Sneak Peak at Sunday's sermon - Essentials

2011-10-18T10:42:00.002-04:00

Government gives us 5 essential food categories:

God gives us 5 essential life categories:

the ROOTS of RACISM

2011-10-18T08:22:00.002-04:00

What about the OUTRAGEOUS life-spans in Genesis?

2011-10-11T08:30:00.001-04:00

Where did Cain get his wife?

2011-10-11T08:28:00.000-04:00

How are your American Ethics?

2011-10-01T14:09:00.002-04:00

Do you worship an idol?

2011-09-23T10:40:00.000-04:00

“Stand up and praise the LORD your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting. Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. You alone are the LORD. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you.” -Nehemiah 9:5-6 NIV

Do you worship an idol?

Have you ever asked this to someone? Probably not! But the reality is that people who create their own god are indeed worshipping an idol.

Evolution is a theory of the origins of the universe. It is also a belief that affects my view of God and His Word. The god of evolution did not create the earth in 6 days. He did not use His voice to speak and instantly create. If this god exists at all, he used processes of millions of years of change and death and decay to “create” our current world.

Here at Berean, we take God’s Word seriously, including Genesis! This puts us at odds with many modern scientists and the teaching of our public school system. Many churches, even in our community, believe and teach that evolution is fact and Genesis is fiction.

Reading the words from Nehemiah above, you’ll see worship rooted in the certainty of divine and literal creation. This is genuine worship! Until I admit that God is single-handedly responsible for the genesis of the universe, I am worshipping an idol…a god that I’ve created.

This weekend at our NOT ASHAMED conference, we hope you’ll be…

...challenged to dig deeper

...confident that your faith is rooted in facts

…and humbled by the mighty power of our Creator God!

Join us for this special two-day conference...details here!

Public OUTDOOR baptisms! 8-7-11

2011-09-02T11:35:00.000-04:00

Public baptisms! 8-28-11

2011-08-27T18:04:00.000-04:00

What is discipleship?

2011-08-16T14:51:00.000-04:00

I LOVE THIS VIDEO!

The illusion of PAST

2011-08-03T13:28:00.000-04:00

(sermon begins at 19 minute mark)

Who is your Saul?

2011-07-28T13:58:00.001-04:00

I’ve been struck this week by Saul’s conversion in Acts 9. Most of us know him as Paul. But Paul had a dark past by another name. He did things that he lived to regret.

One day Jesus showed up. And it was like someone flipped a switch. The old guy vanished. A new guy appeared.

His old hatred for Jesus was replaced by a passion for the Gospel. His disdain for courageous Christians like Stephen was replaced by a burning desire to be one. All it took was one meeting with Jesus. His life was forever changed.

Who’s the Saul in your life? You know what I mean…who is that person who will just “never change”? Maybe you used to pray often for their change of heart. But you’ve given up.

Never give up on a person before Jesus gives up on them! If they are breathing, there is still hope. That Saul may one day meet Jesus and become a Paul.

On our knees friend…it’s time for them to meet Jesus!

Exciting fall conference!

2011-07-28T12:56:00.000-04:00

Scan with your Smartphone

to view exciting details

of our controversial upcoming conference,

or click here!

The illusion of CHANCE

2011-07-26T05:12:00.001-04:00

(sermon begins at 29 minute mark)

The illusion of FAITH

2011-07-22T16:24:00.000-04:00

(sermon begins at 24 minute mark)

Secret #10 - Influencers are History-Makers MESSAGE

2011-07-05T09:03:00.000-04:00

(message begins at 27 minute mark)

Secret #9 - Influencers are Heaven-Reflectors MESSAGE

2011-06-28T09:06:00.000-04:00

(message begins at 25 minute mark)

Life-transformation...

2011-06-21T14:01:00.002-04:00

One man's story of life transformation...sure to bring tears to your eyes!

Secret #8 - Influencers are Priority-Keepers MESSAGE

2011-06-21T07:15:00.000-04:00

(Message begins at 16 minute mark)

Secret #7 - Influencers are Persecution-Bearers MESSAGE

2011-06-14T09:41:00.000-04:00

(Message begins at 22 minute mark)

Secret #6 - Influencers are Open-Handers MESSAGE

2011-06-14T09:34:00.000-04:00

(Message begins at 20 minute mark)

The church is filled with hypocrites!

2011-06-02T11:01:00.000-04:00

"The church is filled with hypocrites!"

Have you heard this before? It is a sad (but often true) criticism of church. But it didn’t used to be this way. In the first church in history, God had little patience with hypocrites. To be very blunt – He killed them!

The first church had some incredible qualities. They had deep bonds forged through generosity and sacrifice. If a person was in need, a Christian would sell something (before the days of Ebay!) and give the money to the church. The church would then distribute the money to those in need. The word got out, and the church exploded with growth.

Then a guy and his wife decided to join the generosity campaign. They sold some land and gave some of the proceeds to God. But there was a big problem. They pretended like it was a deep sacrifice, and it wasn’t. They pretended like they gave everything to God, but they hadn’t. God was not pleased. And quite unexpectedly, the early church had two funerals in one day!

What was the result? Two dead hypocrites. Lots of fear. And a permanent reminder to Christians everywhere that hypocrisy is not a healthy option!

I’m looking forward to diving into this Acts 5 event with you on Sunday...let's bite our nails together!

Secret #5 - Influencers are Power-Prayers MESSAGE

2011-06-01T13:56:00.001-04:00

(Message begins at 21 minute mark)

Secret #4 - Influencers are Courage-Wearers MESSAGE

2011-05-25T12:42:00.000-04:00

(Message begins at 26 minute mark)

Secret #3 - Influencers are Mercy-Sharers MESSAGE

2011-05-19T07:38:00.001-04:00

(Message begins at 18 minute mark)

Secret #2 - Influencers are Glory-Givers MESSAGE

2011-05-10T08:34:00.000-04:00

(Message begins at 20 minute mark)

Influencer Secret #2 - GLORY-GIVERS

2011-05-08T08:00:00.039-04:00

(to watch message video, click here and skip to 20 minute mark)

SCRIPTURE

The masses came running.

The spotlight was on.

The show had begun.

What will Peter and John say?

They just told a crippled to stand up

Now he is standing beside them jumping

All eyes are focused on them…

They respond quickly:

“Why does this surprise you?

Why do you stare at us,

as if by our own power or godliness we made this man walk?”

Now they switch dramatically from using personal pronouns.

Thirteen times in the next four verses they refer to God and Jesus

They implore the crowd to move the spotlight

Peter and John don’t deserve it in their eyes

It needs to be aimed UP!

Reasons believers might be tempted to be in the spotlight

We have been given supernatural abilities (gifts) by God

The indwelling Holy Spirit gives us incredible power

God blesses us unconditionally

Q&A

What is glory? Honor or distinction

Who deserves glory? Only God!

Why? If you ask this question, then you don’t understand God!

Look at the terms Peter uses to describe God:

God of Abraham

Read Genesis 11. Do you notice anything special about this family line? Nope. Now read Genesis 12. God plucks this nomadic man from an unremarkable family and chooses him to become the father of a chosen nation. The focus is on God, not Abraham.

God of Isaac

Isaac shouldn’t have been born. But God intervened and caused elderly woman to give birth to this miracle child. Isaac shouldn’t have survived. But God intervened and provided a sacrifice in his place. Isaac was a wimp and liar. But God was his rock and truth. The focus is on God, not Isaac.

God of Jacob

Jacob lied to his dying father, he stole the birthright of his older brother, he tricked his father-in-law, he had immoral relationships with women besides his wives, and the list goes on. He was not a saint. But his God was unconditionally honest and faithful. The focus is on God, not Jacob.

God of our Fathers

Israel’s forefathers were consistent in only one area – inconsistency. They often were disobedient towards God. And yet time and again, God stood by Israel. He loved her. He called her back to himself, even when they prostituted herself with other gods, philosophies, and lies. The focus is on God, not the Fathers.

Holy and Righteous One

Jesus was set apart by God as a sinless sacrifice for the sins of the world. He was innocent. He was perfect. No one compares to Him. If we don’t focus on Him, then we are clueless!

Author of life

Jesus is the great uncreated being. Through Him everything else came into existence (see John 1). He literally authored life, like a writer authors a novel, or a poet a poem, or a painter a painting. If there is any value in our life, the credit goes to the one who sewed us together in our mother’s womb, the one who breathed life into our souls, and the one who gifted us with abilities and talents and strengths. The painter gets the credit, not the canvas. The author gets the credit, not the ink. We have a divine signature on our life. All credit must go to our author.

SHOCKWAVES

What happened when the early church became glory-givers?

It appears over 17,000 men, women, and children joined the church that day! (Acts 4:4)

What will happen when I become a glory-giver?

I’ll become marked by...

...humility instead of ego

...worship instead of selfishness.

What will happen to our community when Berean is filled with glory-givers?

They will call our church gracious, humble, down-to-earth, real, and transparent. People will be amazed at how our growth and “success” does not go to our heads. Instead of talking about Berean Bible Church, we just keep talking about Jesus. We talk about what Jesus is doing. We talk about the lives Jesus is changing. We won’t be focused on a pastor or teacher or staff member or building or budget – we will be focused on Jesus: the author of life, the holy and righteous One!

What does secret #2 look like?

It looks like Mr. & Mrs. Hill.

Likely many of you don’t even know who they are…

But their gentle spirit brings warmth into this room. They are unassuming prayer warriors. Their consistent prayers bring a courage and power to our church that few understand. They pray specifically for our church, pastors, and leadership on a regular basis. Do you know how much confidence that gives me? This dear couple is very elderly. The style of worship music we sing is foreign to their generation. Most of their peers have fled to churches where the music is more familiar and the age group more comfortable. And yet here they are worshiping with us week after week. Their influence is real and consistent and powerful. They attract no attention to themselves. Instead their example is stoked by their desire to be glory-givers. I think of them and I think of Christ. I see them in church and I see Christ. I shake their hands and I feel like I’m shaking the hands of Christ. Their lives reflect Him. They are glory-givers. They find their influence in their prayer closet and not their public words. They find their influence in their faithfulness and not their outspoken complaining. Glory-givers attract attention to Jesus. They shine the light on the cross. We would do well to follow in their footsteps.

Influencer Secret #1 - JESUS-CARRIERS

2011-05-05T14:05:00.001-04:00

(to watch message video, click here and skip to 21 minute mark)

SCRIPTURE

The crippled was begging at the massive and ornate gate named “beautiful”

Today Jesus was about to do something “beautiful” for this poor beggar.

He was about to use influencers who had something priceless to give away!

"Walk!"

What a command!

There is no limping around.

There is no extended rehab or physical therapy.

Jesus and the apostles' healings were always instant.

A man who has never walked jumps to his feet…

I can picture him skipping like a giddy school kid.

He doesn’t immediately turn and thank Peter and John.

No, he goes with them into the temple.

He knows who to thank!

Their secret is not their own power.

Our only influence, power, and authority comes through Jesus…

nothing else.

It is a power that cannot be bought or sold.

You’ll become an influencer when you are ready to let go

of everything but Jesus!

Look at Matthew 19:16-30

You can’t follow Jesus with full hands.

They must be empty.

What are you holding onto?

What are you unable to give up?

Jesus was crystal clear when he said:

“You cannot serve both God and money.” (Matt. 6:19-24)

He was clear when He said:

"You cannot love the world." (1 John 2:15-17)

SHOCKWAVES

What happened when the early church became Jesus-carriers?

They claimed nothing as their own,

except for Jesus - See Acts 2:45 and 4:32-35!

Peter & John had nothing but Jesus.

The newly healed beggar had nothing but Jesus.

And they were the happiest people on earth!

Our society is mesmerized by fame & fortune.

Look at the huge hoopla over Prince William’s wedding over the weekend.

Over 2 billion people across the world were glued to their televisions Friday morning, nearly 1 of every 3 people on earth.

But who took notice of the family who sold their home and downsized,

so that they could become more generous?

Who noticed the child who broke his piggy bank

to send money to Japan for disaster relief?

Who noticed the grandma who died

and left behind nothing except old Bibles, journals, and a legacy?

What God notices and what we notice are two very different things.

God notices and blesses people who own nothing but His Son.

They have a power and authority and influence that our world only dreams about.

What will happen when I become a Jesus-carrier?

I’ll become marked by…

…generosity instead of materialism

…sacrifice instead of selfishness.

What will happen to our community when Berean is filled with glory-givers?

They will call our church generous and kind.

Our sacrifice and generosity will make our community much richer.

They will want our Jesus.

Debt-carriers have a hard time being Jesus-carriers.

We strongly recommend that you take Financial Peace University

to help you break your addiction to debt.

We offer FPU at Berean each spring and fall.

Consider joining and breaking free of debt and materialism.

Read Radical by David Platt.

He's a young pastor who has challenged his church to live radically,

and the results are causing global shockwaves.

What does secret #1 look like?

It looks like David C.

David has very little, but gives what he has away.

He is unselfish with his time, his skills, and his finances.

He sets a high standard when it comes to sacrificial living...

and when it comes to Jesus-carrying!

He shared his faith with almost everyone he comes across.

It looks like Marge M...

Marge is a giver.

Everyone that knows her has been on the receiving end of her generosity.

She was just diagnosed with untreatable bone cancer.

When she leaves us, she leaves a legacy.

I want to be more like Marge and David.

I want to become a Jesus-carrier!

Secret #1 - Influencers are Jesus-Carriers MESSAGE!

2011-05-05T13:35:00.001-04:00

(Message begins at 21 minute mark)

10 Secrets of Influencers

2011-04-26T11:08:00.000-04:00

Is your life making a splash???

Berean Bible Church is beginning a special 10-week series titled:

10 Secrets of Influencers

Come discover how ordinary people can become extraordinary!

We will explore one secret from the book of Acts every Sunday morning.

Each message will be realistic and helpful.

Worship services are at 8am, 9:30, and 11am

and streamed live via the website each Sunday at 9:25am.

Check out our website (www.bbcgreene.org)

to find service details, children's programs and more!

What is your prison?

2011-04-26T08:07:00.001-04:00

(To view brief message on video, click here and skip to 55 min mark)

If you were honest, maybe you would admit that you’re imprisoned by something. Looking at you, no one would know. But you know. Like Barabbas, your future is imprisoned by your past and your baggage. Like the Pharisee, your heart is imprisoned by a life of comparison. Like Zacchaeus, you are imprisoned by your habits and addictions.

What is your prison? What is holding you back?

Is it the prison of your past? Like Barabbas, do you find yourself thinking: “God can’t forgive me. He can’t handle what I’ve done.” Are you kidding? I promise you it won’t shock God. He knows exactly what it is, who you are, and when you did it. The nail that went through his hands said: “Paid in full.” Just ask, and Jesus takes it. He can’t wait to set you free from the prison of your past. He’s been waiting for a long time…

Is it the prison of your attitude? Like the Pharisee, do you find yourself thinking: “I’m a good person. At least I’m better than that person. Someday God will take my life, put it on a scale, and see that my good deeds outweigh my bad.” This is called the prison of your attitude. It is a life of comparison with others. It makes me feel good. But it gets me no closer to God. The gap is too big. I am too small. Jesus promised there was only one way to reach God – through Him. He said: “I am the way, truth, and the life…no one comes to the Father but through me.” He can’t wait to set you free from the prison of your attitude. He’s been waiting for a long time…

Is it the prison of your addiction? Like Zaccheaus, do you find yourself thinking: “I can’t overcome my addiction. I tell myself that I can stop whenever I want. But deep down, I know it wouldn’t last long. I’ll never get past this.” This is called the prison of addiction. It may be alcohol. This kills your body, divides your family, and ruins your relationships. If you are honest with yourself, you know this is true. It may be smoking or gambling or abuse or porn or sex. Something you wouldn’t call a habit, but you simply can’t stop. You’ve tried running from these problems, but no matter where you go, they follow you. Jesus can’t wait to set you free from the prison of addiction. He’s been waiting for a long time…

What is your prison? What is holding you back? Your past, your attitude, our addiction? Jesus came to set you free. The cross is where your chains fall off. Will you ask Jesus to set you free?

“The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
  because he has anointed me
   to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
   and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free,
   to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”

- Luke 4:18-19

Why don’t you take a minute now and ask Jesus to release you?

Perhaps you are thinking – Jesus can’t release me from this.

Are you kidding?

This is the same Jesus who rose from the dead!

He can do anything!

All of us struggle with a prison of our own. And all of us can experience that feeling of freedom. Zaccheaus, the Pharisee, Barabbas…ancient people with modern problems. You see, our struggles are not that unique. Generations of people have imprisoned by something. And generations of people have felt the forgiveness of God transform their lives.

Jerusalem obituaries, 33 A.D.

2011-04-20T15:46:00.000-04:00

JERUSALEM OBITUARIES, A.D. 33 – Jesus Christ

Jesus, 33, of Nazareth died unexpectedly in Jerusalem on April 22, surrounded by family, friends, and many enemies. He was betrayed by one of his own followers and crucified by the Roman government under the command of Pontius Pilate. The cause of death was severe torture, extreme exhaustion, and loss of blood due to crucifixion.

A descendant of Abraham, Jesus was a member of the house of David. He was the son of the late Joseph, a carpenter of Nazareth, and Mary, his devoted mother. Jesus was born in a stable in the city of Bethlehem, Judea. He is survived by his mother Mary, family, friends, and followers.

Jesus was self educated and spent most of his adult life working as a teacher. He also worked briefly in the medical field, and it is reported that he healed many patients. Up until the time of his death, Jesus was teaching and sharing good news, healing the sick, touching the lonely, feeding the hungry, and helping the poor. The day before his death he had supper with his followers and predicted his death.

His body was buried in a stone grave, donated by Joseph of Arimathea, a loyal friend of the family. By order of Pontius Pilate, a large stone has been rolled in front of the tomb, and Roman soldiers are on twenty-four hour patrol.

Tens of thousands of doves, bulls, rams, goats and sheep have been slaughtered for hundreds of generations over thousands of years. Today those sacrifices end. One died for all. The price has been paid.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that well wishers accept his sacrifice and remember his example.

My Trip to Israel

2011-04-07T14:25:00.000-04:00

It is great to be home! We missed our church family and I especially missed little Daisy Mae. The trip was life-changing.

If you get a chance to visit Israel, I highly recommend it! The political and religious tension is high. The shekels are hard to stretch with the high cost of food and lodging. The people tend to be rude. There is a lot of sinful activity. But in the middle of all the chaos and sin sits the land that Jesus walked. There is little natural beauty to the land, but there is something powerful about being there.

For me, the Sea of Galilee is the most stunning spot on earth. Sitting on the shore, I could picture Jesus walking across the water. I could see the disciples in their boats casting their nets, looking for that big net-busting catch. I could hear the Master speaking the Sermon on the Mount. I could watch the two fish and five loaves of bread being divided up to feed a stunned crowd.

The Bible suddenly has a new depth and color. I can hardly read it without being overcome with emotion. Yesterday I was reading the first few chapters of John and they seemed to come alive. I felt like a kid whose imagination was running wild. I was told a trip to Israel can do this to you, and now I believe!

Questioning the Pastor's sermon?

2011-02-24T14:07:00.001-05:00

Here’s an email I received last Monday:

Dear Justin,

I don’t want to sound critical, I truly mean this in the spirit of speaking the truth in love. I don’t understand where you’re coming from with yesterday’s sermon. I wouldn’t think that the disciples would have been suffering from any of the emotions you described yesterday after personally witnessing the resurrection of Christ, spending time with Him and having the promise of the coming Holy Spirit. I think if I had seen these things I would be awed, excited in anticipation of this promise…I can see the emotions you spoke of in your sermon if you were referencing the time between the crucifixion and the resurrection, but not during this time after the resurrection which would seem to be a time of joy, anticipation, strength. It seems you would have to take great creative license to fit them into Acts 1:12-2:1 and it seems a little dangerous to take that liberty unless there was scripture to support that point of view.

I’m sorry to be writing this, but I just don’t understand.

Why am I sharing this with you? Because I am so thrilled to get an email like this! This person had no idea how I would respond, and it took incredible courage for her to question my sermon. She didn’t realize that I would be recruiting her to give me weekly sermon advice and feedback!

Folks, don’t hesitate to be Bereans! When you read Acts 17:11, you see Paul praising Christians who didn’t rubber-stamp teaching, but compared it with God’s Word. Keep your antenna up as we strive for biblically accurate teaching. I’m grateful to be in a church where people are hungry for the Truth, the whole Truth, and nothing but the Truth! As they say in Latin—Sola Scriptura!!!

In Memory of Harold R. MacDonald

2011-02-08T10:54:00.000-05:00

Harold graduated to heaven on Jan 30, 2011.

He lives on with the One who changed his life from the inside out!

He taught me some lessons that I won't forget...

Don't take life too seriously!

The Apostle Peter had a knack for making statements that cut right through the tension of the moment (see John 13:1-9). How many solemn moods did Harold help to break? How often did he get others laughing? How many times did he speak up with such brazen humor, that we laughed nervously, wondering how on earth he could get away with saying that?! There was something about his ability to not take himself or life too seriously. He reminded us that it is okay to laugh. He showed us that life is too short to be angry or offended. Harold, like the Apostle Peter, will keep us laughing and not taking ourselves too seriously for a very long time! He had a gift for making us laugh.

Take the next life very seriously!

The Apostle Peter did not take this life too seriously, but he took the next life incredibly seriously (see Acts 3:11-19). He knew what really mattered, and he wasn’t afraid to verbalize his concern. He cared deeply for the souls of others. This attribute describes Harold perfectly. He loved people. When I spoke to him just two days before Christmas, he told me how much he loves sharing his faith with people. He didn’t need to tell me this. I already knew! I had been to his apartment building and watched him in action. He had a way with people. A way of making us laugh, yes. But also a way of making us think...about the destiny of our souls.

In my final conversation with him, he said: “I can’t wait to get to heaven.” For Harold, heaven wasn’t just something he read about in a book or learned about in Sunday School. Heaven was a place that he couldn’t wait to go. He knew for certain he was headed there. And he was bold in sharing this hope with others. Chances are, if you knew Harold – he too has shared this with you. He probably shared something like this with you:

"You are not an accident. God created you and has a plan for your life. But your sin separates you from God. Being a good person is not enough to get you to heaven. Just one small lie is all it takes to separate you and me from God. The Bible says that all have sinned (Rom. 3:23). The Bible also says that the penalty for any sin is death (Rom. 6:23). Hell is a real place, just as real as heaven. You need to accept Jesus!"

Harold (like the Apostle Peter) knew how not to take life too seriously.

He also (like Peter) knew how to take the next life very seriously.

I thank God for Harold, and for the lessons he taught me!

In Memory of Chance E. Howey

2011-02-04T10:51:00.000-05:00

He came into our world on September 27, 1979…

His Dad was hoping for a son. He already had two precious daughters. Since this was his last chance for a son, the name “Chance” was very appropriate when a little boy was born.

Chance Howey was not born by chance. The Bible says that God himself sews together the body of every unborn child in the womb (Psalm 139). Although the cruelty of our fallen world can cause birth defects, premature death, and many other ailments – not one child is born by accident. Unlike me and you, God never makes mistakes!

Thirty one years later, Chance’s family and friends mourn his loss. As a church family, we grieve alongside them. Chance visited us twice last year. He was struggling with life and searching for answers. His life was like many of ours – a rollercoaster of unplanned events and difficult situations.

When I met him and his young son, I sensed something special. In the months to follow, I tried to connect with him to no avail. My heart breaks that I couldn’t help. I have a sense of regret along with many of his friends and family who I’ve spoken with.

We cannot live our lives asking “what if?” We must remember that nothing is too big for God to forgive. He actually promises: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us…” (1 John 1:9).

Today, I commit to living each day like it is my last. I am overwhelmed that God is so crazy about me, and I want to love Him and others with this same unconditional love.

We will never have another Chance Howey. But thankfully, God gives each of us another chance.

Let it be

2011-01-28T08:42:00.001-05:00

This crazy band called the Beatles wrote a song titled: “Let it be”. They were not a Christian band. At least that’s what my parents told me! But this song, despite its lack of good theology, carries a deep biblical theme. Let me explain…

We often think God needs Christian dynamos. We aspire to be like Billy Graham or Mother Theresa. But the pressure of living up to their amazing examples overwhelms most of us.

And this is where Acts 1:8 comes in. Jesus didn’t tell his excited followers to go witness. He said: “…You will be my witnesses…” (Acts 1:8)

The mission is not about what I do. It’s about who I am.
It’s not a task to perform. It’s a way of life.

This Sunday we celebrate life change from the past, present, and future. And we remember this faith journey that many have walked in humility and quiet strength. We remember men like Don Phelps. Their deep faith challenges us. Their example inspires us. We stand on their shoulders. And we remember that Christianity is not always about doing. Sometimes it’s just about being.

Perhaps that song was one thing the Beatles got right.
Let it be my friends…let it be!

Wait...

2011-01-21T16:08:00.003-05:00

As a follower of Jesus, I was excited…

My hopes had died when he died. But then everything changed. Our leader came back from the dead! He has spent the last forty days with me and my friends. He has answered lots of our questions, and is teaching us so much. And then came the dinner that left us scratching our heads…

“Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait…” (Acts 1:4)

Wait? For how long? For what? He tried to answer our questions, but the answers made little sense. We are passionate followers. We have momentum. We feel equipped and trained. We want to spread the Good News to the thousands of people streaming into the city for the huge annual festival of Pentecost. Why would it be wrong to do this?

“Wait…” The command swirls in my head like a wild bird in a cage—fighting desperately to get out. I want to obey him. But this commands makes no sense!

Then another strange happening. He zooms into the sky, leaving us alone and confused. We walk back to the big city and gather in a room. We begin to pray. And we wait…

Do you know the rest of the story? After a few days of waiting someone arrived who changed our lives (and the course of history) forever. Good things do indeed come to those who wait.

What is success?

2011-01-14T08:14:00.001-05:00

What is success?

Most parents and businesses ask this question. But have we ever asked this about our church? How do we know if we are successful? What if we are just existing and taking up space on Route 12 and County Road 2?

Success for Berean is not bigger Sunday morning attendance—that is out of our control. It is not a larger offering or budget—that is a very fluctuating measure of success. Perhaps success is obeying 2 Tim. 2:2 and Training to Transform Lives.

If this is success, how can we measure it? How do we know when to celebrate a win or boo a loss? Success for Berean is very simple in 2011. We want to see 25 believers go through our new growth process. This powerful training has four stages:

101—Christianity 101

Success is obedience as you go from disciple to discipler

201—Sharing your Faith

Success is reproduction as you go from convert to soul-winner

301—Roll up your Sleeves

Success is service as you go from attendee to servant

401—Specialized Training

Success is sacrifice as you go from student to teacher

This year, celebrate with us as we Train to Transform Lives!!!

We can’t wait to be successful as a church!

Change of Plans - Christmas Eve message

2011-01-08T13:30:00.002-05:00

(Click here to watch video of this special Christmas Eve service)

We all have plans for our life...

Some of them we set as little kids, and we look back now and laugh. Others we set as we got older and graduated high school…filled with energy and optimism we were ready to conquer the world. Some of our plans are simply for Christmas with family & friends – and we hope and pray that nothing gets in the way of our plans.

Consider tonight a young girl named Little M. She lived with her family in a tight-knit community in the Middle East. She had great plans for herself, her family, and her nation.

For herself…

…she planned to be forever swept off her feet by her handsome prince, a man of God who would love her unconditionally, provide for her, and protect her. She felt God had brought this man into her life for a reason. Her family approved of their relationship, and planned for them to be married. So they entered an engagement period, a time of preparation before marriage considered sacred by her community.

For her family…

…she planned to make them proud by marrying this man and giving them a new son-in-law. She hoped that one day she would be able to provide grandchildren for them to entertain and serve them in their older age.

For her nation…

…she planned for freedom from high taxes and overbearing government. She lived under the weight of an unjust and cruel occupying empire, and couldn’t wait until her tiny nation was once again free. She knew that wouldn’t happen until a king was chosen by the people – a leader so strong that he would lead the military into battle and overthrow the unjust occupier. Her pulse quickened just to think about the great promises of her God, the promises she believed with all her heart. For Little M, it was never a matter of if, but only when!

Then one day something happened that threw Little M’s world upside down:

Read Luke 1:26-38

Some would call it an epiphany.

She would call it an unbelievable life-altering visit.

No matter what it was called, if the message was true,

it would both shatter her plans –

and fulfill them in ways she never thought possible.

It was a major change of plans...

For herself…

She would likely lose the man of her dreams. Once Joe found out, he would leave in a heartbeat, perhaps even taking her to court to face punishment. Her plans for herself began to shatter as reality set in.

For her family…

Her plans for her family would never be realized. Instead of making them proud by marrying and having children, she would instead become an outcast and unwed mother. If she avoided prosecution, she would certainly not avoid the lifelong stigma that was about to accompany her. Her plans for her family began to shatter as reality set in.

For her nation…

Her nation would never accept that their promised leader would be born into the world this way. Although she would give birth to God’s promised leader, she quickly realized that her people would reject him. If she hadn’t heard directly from God – she would have rejected the news too. She was always taught that the coming of this promised leader would be stunning, powerful, and captivating – fit for a king. But born to an unwed young girl living in humble conditions? Her plans for her nation began to shatter as reality set in.

Little M breathed a sigh…

“I am the Lord’s servant,

may it be to me as you have said.”

And with that, she gave up her own plans in exchange for God’s plans.

What plans are you looking forward to?

Are you open to God changing your plans?

Instead of asking God to join our plans,

Perhaps He’s asking us to join His!

Here is how it turned out for Little M:

For herself…

Although her life was not easy, it was filled with incredible significance. God fulfilled her plans in a way she never thought possible. Her son ended up dying to save her. Her child became her Savior.

For her family…

Mary’s parents couldn’t have known that their grandson would become their Savior. He was the Messiah they had been praying and waiting for. He would bring far more pain and rejoicing into their lives than they bargained for!

For all nations…

God was willing to exchange the comfort heaven for the cruelty of earth – so all who believe could one day we could exchange the cruelty of earth for the comfort of heaven!

The beauty of Christmas is that God’s plans are still alive today.

Jesus was born once so that we could be born twice.

My first birth was physical.

My second was spiritual.

My first birth brought a selfish soul into the world.

My second birth brought a Savior into my soul.

Are you open to a change of plans?

In Memory of Uncle Don Wagstaff

2010-12-22T11:10:00.000-05:00

Read Luke 19:1-10

Don reminds me of Zacchaeus, but not for the obvious reasons. Zack was rich, Don lived modestly. Zach was short; Don shopped at Big & Tall stores. Zach was a tax-collector hated by his fellow countrymen; Don was a Seabee in the US Navy who served his nation and was respected by us all. In many ways, Don and Zack were polar opposites. But in a few significant ways they were very similar.

Both Zack and Don had a deep desire to be close to Jesus. Zack went to great lengths to be close to Jesus. His friends thought he was crazy to climb that tree just to see Jesus. But he did it anyways, because he wanted so desperately to be close to the One who could change his life. Don went to great lengths to be close to Jesus. His friends thought he was crazy to be baptized at 85 years old. But he did it anyways, because he wanted so desperately to obey the One who changed his life. Makes me wonder, what would I do to be closer to Jesus? Don set the bar high!

Both Zack and Don developed the heart of a servant. Zack had everything he could ask for. But for him, waiting on Jesus and serving him a meal was perhaps the most significant event of his life. For Don, living at Riverview Manor meant having everything he needed. The staff took care to wait on him hand & foot. But for Don, serving others was incredibly important. From helping to fold the laundry, to assisting other residents with their exercises, to helping plant and weed a plot in the community garden – Don took great delight in serving others. When many of his peers had given up on life, Don found opportunities to help others. Makes me wonder, how much of a servant’s heart do I have?

Both Zack and Don were very familiar with loss. Zack gave up a huge amount of his personal wealth so that his fellow Jews could share his abundant financial freedom. In 1968, Don lost his only son Jimmy to tragedy during the Vietnam War. Don gave up his only son so that his fellow Americans could live in freedom. Reminds me of what God did. 2,000 years ago when he also gave up his only son, so that the people He loved so much would be able to live in freedom. It makes me wonder, what am I willing to give up for the good of others?

Both Zack and Don changed their priorities. Zack lived a life of ease and wealth until he met Jesus. Then he gave much of it away and rearranged his priorities, to the surprise of his peers. After Don met Jesus, his priorities shifted. He became a faithful student of God’s Word. Until his eyesight failed, he woke up at 6am each morning to read the Bible until 7am, giving the first hour of every morning to God. He read through the entire Bible at least three times. How many of us in this room can say that? Don also became a diligent man of prayer. His daughter Donna says that it was her Dad’s prayers that made the biggest difference in her life. Even before she accepted Don’s faith for herself, his faithful prayers for her got her through some very difficult times. By their actions, both Zack and Don proved that God was their number one priority. Makes me wonder, how are my priorities?

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, both Zack and Don left behind a rich legacy. It is not a legacy of personal wealth; it is one of personal devotion. It is not a legacy of incredible education; it is one of constant learning and growing. It is not a legacy of fame or fortune; it is one of obedience and spiritual depth. These attitudes form a legacy that we as his family and friends would do well to follow. Makes me wonder, how much of a legacy will I leave behind?

Don was not perfect. None of us are. But he had real spiritual hunger that seemed to increase tremendously the last few years of his life. A few months ago as Don’s health began to fail, some of his family gathered together for a special time with him. At the end of the day, a few of us prayed over him. He was not content to sit passively. After the final amen, Don asked if he too could pray. He then proceeded to pray a prayer with such deep conviction and passion…I thought I was listening to Billy Graham!

The Bible says: “What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?” (Matthew 16:26) Sometimes we think life is about how much stuff we own, how much popularity we attain, and how many friends we have. Perhaps life is not about what we take with us, but about what we leave behind. Thankfully for all of us, Don didn’t pursue the world. Instead he pursued Jesus and left behind a rich spiritual legacy. This year he is going to have the best Christmas he has ever experienced! Perhaps this afternoon, he is hoping from heaven that we will choose to walk in his footsteps…doing everything we can to get closer to Jesus. Zacchaeus climbed a tree. Don was baptized at 85. What about me?

My Hero

2010-12-20T13:04:00.000-05:00

(click here for sermon video - skip to 30min mark)

MY HERO

Genesis 3:7-15

In the middle of a tragic failure, hope sprung from a future superhero…my hero!

All hope was lost…

The world was desperately in need of a hero. Adam and Eve were fearfully hiding from the perfect presence of their Creator. Satan, sin, and self were three powerfully vicious and victorious enemies of humanity. The haunting promise “you will surely die” was swirling around in their heads as they hid in shame. This was uncharted territory. No one knew exactly what would happen next.

Perhaps in Adam & Eve’s imagination they dreamed of some superhero swooping down from above and rescuing them from the mess they had just made. As time continued to tick, they desperately wanted to avoid God. Then they heard a familiar voice: “Adam, where are you?” Adam recoiled in sheer terror and shame. Should he pretend he hadn’t heard? God was much too smart for that. How should he respond?

So with a little hesitation, Adam replied: “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” His response seemed simple and innocent, but to God – it was a dead giveaway. Without realizing it, Adam revealed that Creation was no longer perfect. Innocence had been destroyed. He felt shame, something that was not part of original creation.

“Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?” replied God, leaving little wiggle room for Adam. God was not trying to elicit information, for He knew that eating from this tree was the one act of rebellion possible in the Garden, and it was certain to bring the shame they now felt. God was trying to elicit confession. But confession was not on Adam’s mind…

The blame game begins…

As a newly fallen human, having just given into Satan, self, and sin for the first time, Adam quickly adds another notch to his belt: “The woman you put here with me –she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.” The blame game officially began, and it hasn’t stopped since. When trapped in our sin, we often deflect the blame and refuse the responsibility. From Adam to Justin, we are rarely broken by our sin. Human rebellion dies hard. We feel trapped, like there is no way out. So we shift the blame. After all, it’s not really our fault, is it?!

“What is this you have done?” says God, turning His attention to Eve. “The serpent deceived me, and I ate,” she replied, continuing the blame game and refusing to accept responsibility. God must have breathed a heavy sigh at this point, realizing that his relationship with humans would never be the same. Their sin would come easily, their selfishness and pride creating an instant wedge between him and them. He turned towards the serpent, and cursed him with a steady and firm voice: “Cursed are you…”

A promise was made…

Only a moment later God would turn back to Adam and Eve and curse them as well. The consequences of their sin would be devastating for all future men, women, children, families, and work. It was a dark day in Eden. But in the middle of the darkness was a tiny ray of light, packaged in a promise that was blunt, violent, and powerfully exciting: “He will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.”

Scholars have termed this “Protoevangelion”, meaning “the first Gospel” or “first Good News”. Many see it as the very first Messianic promise in history. When God wanted to tell us Good News and give us hope – he didn’t give it in language that would be hard to understand. It was as simple as possible. “I will crush his head”…who doesn’t understand that?

Speaking to a couple mired in the shame of their sin and failure, God gives them very plain hope: “He will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” One day a man would come from Eve’s family tree. Satan would strike his heel – meaning he would attempt to destroy him but only succeed in biting his heel – a poor attempt for any snake. However, even a bite on the heel by a poisonous snake equals death. And indeed for the Redeemer, Satan’s bite brought death. And then with one stomp, perhaps even with that bruised heel, the woman’s offspring would crush Satan’s head. This was a plain and graphic promise, one that would bring great hope to generations of people groaning under the weight of sin.

Who is your hero?

Put yourself in Adam & Eve’s shoes. They were filled with shame and were hiding from God. It’s a place I’ve found myself many times...

It’s a place of little hope

A place where I feel like an underdog

A place where I need someone much stronger than myself

….I need a superhero.

The greatest part about Jesus

is He’s not just a superhero…

He is MY hero!!!

When life overwhelms you – where do you turn? When Satan seems to be winning, do you have a superhero? When Self rears its ugly head and you feel filled with shame, do you have a hero who can lift you up? When sin defeats and discourages you, where do you turn?

Thousands of years ago, in the middle of a great tragedy, hope sprouted. Today, hope is alive and well. When we celebrate Christmas we celebrate the birth of a superhero…the one who came to crush Satan’s head…the One who came to set us free.

Is He YOUR hero?!!!

If YES, then give him 100% of yourself.

A hero never settles for less.

No Christianese for me!

2010-12-16T15:49:00.001-05:00

Do you ever feel like Christians speak a funny language? Do weird words like sanctification, holiness, righteousness, stewardship, and incarnation ever make you scratch your head? Me too! Sometimes Christian lingo makes me want to scream!

Perhaps that is why this verse fills me with such hope. It is simple, almost to a fault. It has strong overtones of violence and risk. It’s a promise that makes me want to stand and cheer:

“He will crush your head,

and you will strike his heel.”

- Genesis 3:15b

Sunday’s message deals with this plain promise. Adam and Eve had just failed miserably to their three enemies—Satan, self, and sin. They felt a deep sense of shame. God’s haunting warning was spinning in their heads: “For when you eat of it you will surely die.” Their perfect world was suddenly ruined.

Then God showed up. As he dished out the consequences, he also slipped in the above promise famously called “protoevangelion” meaning “the first good news”. In the middle of unspeakable tragedy, hope sprouted. A future superhero was promised.

Unlike Adam and Eve, we don’t need to use our imaginations to figure out this verse. The promise has been fulfilled. Hope has arrived, and Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of that promised superhero!

Forget the Christianese. Go Jesus!!!

Where's the line to see Jesus?

2010-12-14T12:44:00.002-05:00

Enemy #3 - Sin

2010-12-10T13:19:00.008-05:00

(click here for sermon video - skip to 33min mark)

Enemy #3 is confusing because we misunderstand what sin is.

What exactly is sin, and what is it not?

Genesis 3:6 tells us that the forbidden fruit was…

Good for food

Lust of the flesh: “I’m hungry – it’s just what I’m craving!”

Pleasing to the eye

Lust of the eyes: “It looks good!” Not everything that sparkles is gold!

Desirable for gaining wisdom

Pride of life: “It will make me feel, look, or be good, it’s all about me!”

(These three sins that lured Eve in Genesis 3 were the same three that Satan used to lure Jesus to sin in Luke 4:1-13)

Read 1 John 2:15-17

There is one love that God hates.

Love for sin.

This love cannot coexist with God’s love.

Are you comfortable with sin?

If it doesn’t keep you awake at night,

then you have some level of affection with it.

God’s love is completely incompatible with my sinful desires and pride.

God’s love and my sin cannot peacefully coexist.

One must win.

Let’s take a peek at what God says sin is NOT

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything… Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” - James 1:2-4, 12 NIV

Trials are wonderful opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations!

When I face a trial I should be happy?

Yes, because “the testing of your faith develops perseverance” and perseverance leads to me being “mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

Do I want maturity?

I can’t get there without going through trials.

There are no known shortcuts!

Eternal life is on the other side of trials.

We can’t skip this life and its difficulties.

He wants to mold us into his Son’s image now!

He wants us to walk towards maturity.

But we often avoid trials because we are scared of them.

Expect trials from outside!

Respond with joy, patience, and maturity.

Trials should produce excitement in me.

Trials are a chance to prove my love for God. Will I pass the test?

Trails are NOT our enemy.

We should not try to avoid them.

We should RSVP and say: “I am coming!”

We want a test, and we want to pass.

We want maturity!!!

What else sin is NOT

“When tempted, no one should say, ‘God is tempting me.’ For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.” - James 1:13-15 NIV

The verb form of the noun for “trials” is used here, to speak of inner trails! God is saying: “Man up and take responsibility for your temptation. It is not coming from outside of you. Temptation comes from within!”

Temptation is NOT our enemy

Just because the temptations are flooding my heart doesn’t mean I have failed. It is not until after I am dragged away and enticed that desire is conceived – and then this gives birth to sin! Sin, once it is full-grown, gives birth to death. Temptation is not sin, it’s an invitation to sin!

Fight or flight

When do I fight & when do I run? Some guys especially feel completely defeated in their minds because of lust. Just because we have the temptation doesn’t mean we have failed the test. Bad thoughts are not always sin – they can be temptations to sin. When Jesus was tempted, did the "bad" thoughts pass his mind? Of course! Don’t be discouraged by temptations. Let the invitations come.

Just RSVP that you won’t be attending!

RECAP

Trails happen TO me and are

“wonderful opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations”

Temptations happen BECAUSE of me and are

"invitations to sin”

Both trials (from outside) and temptations (from inside) are tests.

Will I pass or fail?

If I fail, I sin and must confess.

If I pass, I step towards maturity!

Sin is our enemy.

Don’t love it…learn to hate it.

But embrace trials and expect temptation.

They are merely tests on the road to maturity.

Fail and some heavy-duty confession will be needed.

Pass and become more like Christ!

My 3 enemies!

2010-12-08T14:50:00.000-05:00

Sneak peak at Sunday's message

2010-12-08T14:46:00.000-05:00

This is a sneak peak at Sunday's graph of SIN...

Perhaps we've misunderstood Enemy #3!!!

2010-12-07T14:13:00.001-05:00

Sunday's message in 30 seconds...

You and I are not broken enough about our sin.

You and I are too proud to receive God’s grace.

God says:

"I am near to the broken and I give grace to the humble."

(Psalm 34:18 & James 4:6)

The consequence of self-help and stubbornness is distance from God.

We need to tearfully surrender to God.

No other option can revive us.

(click here to see full version)

Civil War against SELF

2010-12-07T14:09:00.001-05:00

(click here for sermon video - skip to 30min mark)

“When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.” - Genesis 3:6

In one tragic moment,

Eve lost a battle she didn’t even realize she was engaged in…

…The Serpent whispered some enticing words, and she found herself reaching for the forbidden fruit, forever changing the course of human history. What vital mistake did she make that fateful day? And what can I do to avoid following in her footsteps?

(click here to see a 30 second summary of this message)

TEARS

…sin must devastate me

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18

I’ve walked the hallways of this heart and come to one stark conclusion – the only good in here is Jesus. How can I possibly win this ongoing battle against myself? I must first recognize that I am helpless. I bring nothing to the table. Depravity means complete reliance on God.

I must become deeply grieved by the depravity of my heart. Only when I am broken can God use me. Only when I confess my deep sinfulness can God forgive me. When I deny depravity, I continue living in sin. I pretend the problem is out there – and yet it is in here! I am my greatest enemy!!!

When Jonathan Edwards preached his stirring “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” message, there were reports of grown men clinging to trees out of pure terror of falling into hell. For the first time in their lives, they realized just how devastatingly dark and filthy their sins were to a holy God.

Do I hate sin? When is the last time I was so broken over a sin in my life that it kept me awake all night? Only when I am broken can true healing come. The Lord is close to the broken.

SURRENDER

…I must give up!

“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” – James 4:6

Stubbornness is ineffective in our unseen spiritual battle. Sin is much more powerful than self. I have fought it hand-to-hand often throughout my life –and I’ve lost every time. (So have you!) We do not have the necessary inner strength to control our lusts, passions, desires, or selfishness.

Depravity means complete inability to win a single battle against sin. Why else would Jesus leave behind the “Paraclete”? (Greek for “to come alongside; to help”) Only when I surrender to the Spirit can I win. Scripture offers no alternate path out of the swamp of our sin.

There once was this famous guy who had a terrible skin disease. He asked a healer for help, and the healer told him to wash in the river nearby. When he got to the river, he was disgusted by the filthy water and refused to wash. The healer told him that unless he humbled himself and went through the dirty water seven times, he would never be healed. That story is found in 2 Kings 5 and his name was Naaman. He humbled himself, went into the filthy Jordan River seven times as Elisha commanded, and his skin became like a baby’s skin! Only through surrender did he experience healing.

A Winning Strategy…

No matter how hard we try to conquer our sin, there is only one way out – tearful surrender. No matter how strong we feel, we have not truly waged civil war until we have given up. God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.

Can God give grace to you? Or is your ego in the way? Is your self-reliance blocking God’s grace? Are you forcing God to resist you? Be broken by your depravity. Give up. Let the grace flow!

A few weeks ago my one year old daughter Daisy Mae was acting overtired and grouchy. After a new diaper and kiss goodnight from Mommy, I took my little girl, sat down in the rocker in her bedroom, and held her closely in my arms. She resisted, squirmed, and cried. Finally her tiny body stopped resisting. Her breathing became slow and steady. I could feel her tense muscles relaxing as she slumped against my chest. For some very treasured moments, I sat in silence rocking. I wanted nothing more than to hold her tiny sleeping body in my arms. She had given up.

If dads like me just love when their little kids fall asleep in their arms, how much more does our Heavenly Father? Perhaps we need to learn to rest in His strength, and give up on ours!

The only way to win this civil war against self is to tearfully surrender.

Book Review: "Margins" by Richard Swenson, M.D.

2010-12-04T10:50:00.003-05:00

"Personally helpful, immensely practical, overtly realistic."

This perfectly describe my sentiments about "Margin" by Richard A. Swenson, M.D. I am a child of the times, and I tend to live life as overloaded as the next guy. I needed to take a long hard look at my energy and time output. This caused me to re-evaluate the margins in my life.

With a new ability to say "No", I have found increased margin with my time. With a new way to schedule less in my week (and even schedule times of solitude and meditation), I have found increased margin with my emotional health. With a fresh perspective on "interruptions", I have found increased margin with my responses to pressing needs.

Swenson's prognosis for a life in overdrive is simple and realistic: contentment, simplicity, balance, and rest. I admit to needing a little more of each in my life. I will continue reordering my life around these guiding values. I believe these are much more than good ideas - they are biblical mandates!

Thanks Dr. Swenson for teaching margins to me and many others. Now if you'll excuse me, I've got an interruption to tend to...and I'm okay with that, because I plan for those now!

Civil War message preview

2010-12-03T13:15:00.000-05:00

We are locked in a vicious war…

...our #1 enemy is Satan, the great serpent of old. He is cunning, deceitful, and bent on our destruction. But he is only as effective as we allow. His greatest ally is our inner nature named Self, enemy #2.

Unless we wage a holy civil war against our internal enemy, we can expect a life of spiritual, moral, and emotional defeat. But as our eyes begin to open to this internal war, we have the distinct possibility of being able to win victories that we never thought possible. We could perhaps even change our family tree.

This Sunday we discover the two greatest civil war strategies of all-time! Although they’re lousy for a military, they are powerful for a Christian. We will also examine the two most commonly used civil war strategies, and expose their fatal flaws.

I’d like to leave you with some encouraging words from Isaiah 40:31:

“But they who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Enemy #2 - Self

2010-12-03T13:05:00.001-05:00

(click here for sermon video - skip to 22min mark)

In one moment Eden’s perfection became Eve’s nightmare:

Eve had known nothing but peaceful innocence and relational harmony...until now. She felt filthy. The innocence left. She felt scared. The harmony vanished. Her entire world fell apart with one forbidden bite.

Has your world ever fallen apart? During those sleepless nights filled with tossing and turning - do you wonder who to blame? Do you point your finger at Satan and sin? Perhaps the enemy is much closer to home.

Today we discover our second greatest enemy. It is an enemy who is even more subtle than Satan, and often more effective. This enemy is to us what the Trojan horse was to the ancient Greeks. It slips into our inner circle without any warning. Then one day we wake up and realize we’ve been tricked. Enemy #2 has ruined our lives. If only we had known…

I pray today’s message challenges your thinking and your habits. I hope that you decide to defeat this cruel enemy before it defeats you. The enemy is closer than you think...and the same could be said about your victory!

3 Views on the Human Heart

It is Good!

This comes from the New Age movement, believing that God is inside me. Satan is the only true evil in the world. The only people going to hell are Hitler and Stalin – and really, really bad people like them. Most everyone else is good.

We enter marriage and often parenting with the idea that our spouse and children are perfect (or are supposed to be!). Our expectations are so unrealistic, it causes our marriages to be filled with disappointment and tension – since we are expecting our husband/wife to fulfill all our emotional and physical needs – and essentially be God! Our parenting is filled with challenges because we think our children are sweet little angels who don’t know any better.

Jesus wisely debunked this theory (see John 8:1-11). If Eve was good – she was a victim of the serpent and deserved compassion, not consequences! If this view was true, we could honestly say: “It’s Satan’s fault!”

A Blank Slate

Latin Term: Tabula Rasa – means humans are born with no built-in mental content. Many of our current raging debates are using this theory as their basis. For instance: it is not our children’s fault that they are being violent, falling into bad habits, and living an unhealthy lifestyle. It is the fault of advertisers, media, Hollywood, and bad businesses.

Jesus debunked this theory as well (see Mark 7:14-23). If Eve was a blank slate – she was a victim of temptation/environment and deserved compassion, not consequences! If this view was true, we could honestly say: “It’s Sin’s fault!”

Depraved

Do you really want to meet your deadliest enemy? Look in a mirror! Who is my worst enemy? Me!!! Have you ever said something and later asked yourself: “Where did that come from?” It came from inside!

God confirms this view of the human heart (see Jeremiah 17:9 and Romans 3:10-12). Depravity: to be void of anything good, completely corruption! If Eve was inherently good, her reaction to the serpent would have been: “No thanks, I don’t even want that fruit!" Sin is IN us!!

If Eve was bad – she was the perpetrator and deserved consequences – and this is exactly what God gave her! Sin is like a cancer that infects us from within! If this view is true, we can honestly say: “It’s My fault!"

Listening to the right voice: (see Ecc. 11:9)

Ø “Follow your heart”….no, Eve did this…follow your Bible!

Ø “Listen to your gut”…no, Eve did this…listen to your conscience!

Ø “Forgive yourself”…no, Eve tried to do this…forgive others and accept God’s forgiveness!!

Ø “Believe in yourself”…no, Eve did this…believe in Jesus!

The truth is that anything good in me is Jesus, not me! I've walked the hallways of this heart, and there is nothing good inside this man.

(listen to this stirring song here)

“I said to the Lord, “You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing.”
Psalm 16:1

ENEMY #1 - SATAN

2010-11-19T12:13:00.001-05:00

(click here for sermon video)

Adam & Eve were strolling around the beautiful garden – with no idea that enemies were in their midst. They had not one, not two, but three powerful enemies – all with one intent – the failure & destruction of humanity. None of their enemies were openly hostile to them. But all three worked secretly behind the scenes to destroy the crown jewel of God’s creation.

There is a very old battle raging around us. Although it may be new to us, our enemy has over 6,000 years of experience and story after story of success, some of which are recorded in the book we call the Bible. The irony is that this enemy often uses the same tactics he has used for millennia…because the same old tactics are still working very effectively on you and me!

Enemy #1 – Satan…

EMBEDS

(Satan is a teddy bear!)

Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. – Genesis 3:1a

This raises so many unanswered questions. Did the serpent have wings or legs? Was the serpent a snake? Did Satan inhabit the snake? Why?!!

We know from later Scripture that this was Satan (Rev. 20:2-3). The word for “crafty” is used a dozen times in the OT and carries the idea of being shrewd, discerning, and sensible. Our enemy is not dumb! He is cunning, sly, and smart. What he says will not often sound scary or scandalous. It will sound wise, sensible, and like common sense.

Perhaps he flies easily under our radar because we are expecting something so different. Perhaps like Eve, we are unprepared for his subtle ways and sensible advice. How else do you explain the vast popularity of Christianity across our nation as our morality declines catastrophically? Never in the history of the world has Christianity been both so pervasive and so ineffective.

Why is Christianity so morally weak when we are surrounded by so much good counsel? Is it possible that not all good advice is from God? Is it possible that Christian books and messages are filled with lies from a serpent? Would our enemy really be so cunning as to infiltrate our ranks, popularize our basic values, and strip us of our hallmark Christ-like obedience?

The serpent is not an enemy to underestimate. Infiltration & embedding are two of his most popular and effective weapons. He did not start using them recently. He began using them in a place called Eden.

Can you recognize Satan? He is more familiar than we expect! Satan disguises himself as “an angel of light!” (2 Cor. 11:14) Is my radar accurate? He is not who we expect!

EXPLOITS

(Satan hides the hook)

He said to the woman… – Genesis 3:1b

Hold on just a minute…doesn’t it seem strange to find a snake talking to a lady? I have a few questions for Eve:

1. Why don’t I hear any fear in your voice as you talk to the snake? Are you courageous, crazy, or clueless?!!!

2. Why isn’t there any awkwardness in your conversation? You seem very familiar with the serpent. Have you talked with him before?

3. When did you become friends with your most dangerous enemy?

Then I begin to ask myself some hard questions:

1. How scared am I of Satan? If he appeared to me in the form of lust or greed or anger or bitterness – would I run, fight, or be unafraid?

2. How familiar am I with Satan? Perhaps we become friends a long time ago. Maybe I unwittingly made a truce with my enemy…not knowing that he never raises a white flag. He is always on the offensive. Scripture says: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10)

Where in my life am I compromising? Is Satan exploiting me by hiding the hook? The bait looks so good.

When you look at the conversation between Eve and Satan – it appears that they had been co-existing for quite a while, with no problems. You know, we often think that we can avoid the consequences of our poor choices. “Not me!” we say to ourselves. Newsflash: Satan can out wait me – he is a thousand times more patient than me! Play with Satan long enough, and God promises you’ll get burned.

Folks, our enemy is incredibly patient. He can wait days, weeks, months, even years if necessary. Think about your greatest failures. Did they happen overnight? Or can you trace your failure back through a series of small compromises, often going all the way back to your childhood? Each time a small compromise is made, we become a little bit more comfortable with sin. Before we know it, our sins become stairs that lead us to the basement of defeat and failure.

We wonder how we could have stooped so low. Looking back, we find ourselves having tiptoed slowly in the wrong direction. The lies were so small and sensible. The arguments and rationalizations were so convincing. There was never a silver bullet. Perhaps my conscience didn’t even registered guilt. But the series of small compromises capsized my soul, my family, and my faith.

EXAGGERATES

(Satan makes God seem extreme!)

Did God really say: “You must not eat from any tree in the garden?” (Gen. 3:1c)

“Did God really say?” A simple and subtle question. Although it sounds like a plain vanilla innocent question, perhaps it is more profound than we realize. Satan is a master exaggerator. He will plant seeds of doubt by making God seem extreme. It’s more subtle than saying: “God didn’t say that!” Instead he questions what God said. We don’t usually need a good solid reason to disobey God. We just need a seed of doubt. Our hearts are so naturally bent away from obedience that a slight push is sufficient!

“You must not eat from any tree in the garden?” The Master Deceiver pulls off his most effective stunt. He makes God look extreme. Did God really say you can’t have sex? Did God really say you can’t enjoy life? Did God really say you can’t _____ (fill in the blank). Satan does a fantastic job of making God look like a “Thou Shalt Not” God!!! He paints this vivid contrast of a boring and drab Christian life on one hand or a fun and exciting life on the other.

Have you allowed Satan to trick you into believing that God is extreme? That God is unhappy and harsh? That God doesn’t want you to have fun? That God is a divine ogre whose sole purpose is to make your life miserable? Not only was this Satan’s first lie, but it is his oldest and most effective. What is funny is that he has molded most churches to fit this idea of God. Across America, many churches focus primarily on rules and clothing, music style and traditions.

I believe this is what makes churches like Berean so unique. Because our church is only four decades old, we don’t have a past steeped in traditions. We should never allow our past to hinder the future God has planned for us! We must never become legalistic or stuffy. Why? Because we serve a God who is filled with grace, enjoyment, and creativity! When we take on his characteristics, we reflect Him to our community and world.

Heaven forbid we ever get so bogged down in extreme tradition and legalism. God has set us free to enjoy the “garden”. Only certain trees are off limits. Let’s draw the boundaries where God does, and not allow Satan to succeed in making our God look extreme. Is God extreme? Not in some ways…but in others YES! He is extremely holy! He is extremely amazing! He is extremely loving! He is extremely creative! He is extremely powerful!

Listen, Satan not only exaggerates God, he also exaggerates himself. Don’t give Satan too much credit. He is not responsible for all your temptation and sins. (We are going to be looking at our two other greatest enemies in the weeks to come…Satan is just one of three!) Don’t let an unhealthy curiosity of Satan cause you to lose focus. He is a created being. He does not know all things, is not all-powerful, cannot read our thoughts or silent prayers, and cannot be in all places at one time. He is finite, created, and headed for complete destruction. Instead of exaggeration, here is Scriptural reality: “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)

EXPOSES

(Satan is a smart cookie!)

The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’” “You will not surely die,” the serpent said to the woman. (Gen. 3:2-4)

Clever replies don’t work on Satan. I can’t outsmart him, out think him, or outwit him. I am defenseless before him except for the Sword of God. Do I know how to use it? Or is it rusty?!!! Do I have biblical substance to rely on when times get tough and Satan attacks?

“and you must not touch it” Where did this command come from? We have no record that it came from God. Perhaps it came from Adam when he explained God’s boundary to his wife. Perhaps Eve simply misheard or misunderstood the boundary. Regardless, this one simple addition to God’s command made it seem just extreme enough to doubt. Why would God be so scared of that fruit? Why would He tell me not to touch it? Do you see how subtle changes to God’s boundaries can make God look bad?

God asks us to read his Word – so that its truth can guide our lives. I can’t recommend Christianity 101 strongly enough. Our youth & leaders are going through this on Sunday evenings. Some ladies are going through this at 9:30am on Sunday mornings. Men, women, couples, and families are going through it at home during the week. See me or Greg Whitacre and get plugged in!

Satan is no dummy. He plays with our ignorance of Scripture. Is my faith firmly rooted in truth? By not knowing his actual commands, we lose the heart of the law! We make it about externals rather than internals. We become outside Christians rather than inside Christians. Some people tell me: “If you could only see what happens inside that family’s home…” We have so many Christians who play Christian on the outside, but inside they don’t truly want to obey Jesus. The desire of their heart is finding pleasure, getting rich, and being entertained. Where is a deep love for God? Why have we exchanged it for cheap substitutes? Coming to church on Sunday mornings does not make you a Christian – anymore than being in the Garden of Eden made the Serpent a believer! What is inside of you? Are you the real deal?

“You will not surely die.” Satan says: “God is extreme. He doesn’t know what He’s talking about. Can you prove that He’s telling the truth? Then why believe Him? Believe science, believe your feelings, or believe your friends. Are you really so ignorant as to believe someone you can’t see and prove…as to believe something that sounds ridiculous?” See how powerfully cunning the serpent is?!

Jesus says this about the serpent: “He was a murdered from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” (John 8:44)

Perhaps I need a time of soul-searching. Am I really following Jesus? It is not enough to believe in Christianity. I must be a Christian. That means following a real Jesus – not a man-made warped version of him. Religion is man-made. Most Christianity is highly traditional and inaccurate. If I was shipwrecked on a deserted island with just me and God – what would my Christianity look like?

Satan knows God’s Word inside & out. This puts us at a severe disadvantage. Why else do you think we need to be reading and listening to this book? It is our compass. If we aren’t following it, we are relying on our gut (inner compass), and how often has that steered you wrong?! Jesus fought Satan by using Scripture accurately to his advantage. I need to know this Book just as good as Satan!

Watch out for that crafty serpent. He embeds, exploits, exaggerates, and exposes. He is a Teddy Bear who hides his hook and exaggerates God. He has come to seek, kill, and destroy. But Christ has come that we might have abundant life. Listen to a serpent…or listen to a Savior. Today the choice is ours.

Book Revew: "The Map" by David Murrow

2010-11-11T12:44:00.001-05:00

David’s first book “Why Men Hate Church” turned out to be a best-seller. With his fingers on the pulse of struggling American Christianity, David identified a stunning root cause: church has become geared towards women! That book resonated with people across the country, including this pastor. We looked for ways to de-feminize our churches and re-ignite the masculine flames that burned so brightly in the early church.

Now along comes his sequel “The Map”. The first half of the book is a fiction thriller. It traces David as he seeks a lost map from the first century A.D. After an enlightening series of harrowing events, he stumbles across the prize. It is a metaphoric map that traces “Three Journeys of Jesus”. The first journey is submission, the second is strength, and the final is sacrifice.

David admits that he stumbled across this “map” in a far less glamorous manner. He was sitting at home in his pajamas speed-reading the Gospel of Matthew. He believes that Matthew purposely arranged his Gospel by theme – leaving clues for future believers to guide them on their journey of discipleship.

I respect the conclusions of this intriguing book. However I am unwilling to accept them as a new pattern for ministry. Perhaps as I begin to mature my enthusiasm is jaded by a new skepticism. If this map of submission, strength, and sacrifice was truly meant to revolutionize the Church – why did Matthew find such success hiding it for two millennia?

Maybe my hesitation is not born of skepticism. Perhaps I am developing an appetite that is only satisfied by the plain truth of Scripture. I am just simple enough to believe that God did not hide revolutionary secrets between the lines of Scripture. Instead, perhaps life-changing truths are directly on each line – and aided by the Holy Spirit can be immediately applied to my life and my church.

Thanks to David for an intriguing and mind-provoking read. I will be mulling his thoughts for years to come. In the meantime, I intend to submit to Scripture instead of men, draw my strength from God’s Spirit instead of novel ideas, and sacrifice fame and fortune for the simplicity of the Living Word!

Politics & the Bible

2010-11-02T14:24:00.003-04:00

(click here for sermon video - skip to 11 min mark)

Some people immediately cringe when they hear this word “politics”, and I can hardly blame you. The definition of politics comes from the etymology of its word: poly=man and tics=blood sucking creatures. No wonder we cringe!

There is a tendency for churches to ignore current issues for fear of getting too political. However, if we are not dealing with the issues that people are facing today, we are not really using Scripture for its intended purpose. Our faith must impact every decision…or we are shallow at best and hypocrites at worse! As a church, we must be equipping you to face the decisions in your life in a biblically consistent way. Listen to this:

“If I profess with the loudest voice and clearest exposition every portion of the Word of God except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ, however boldly I may be professing Him. Where the battle rages there the loyalty of the solider is proved; and to be steady on all the battle front besides; is mere flight and disgrace if he flinches at that point.” - Martin Luther

Two days before major elections, our church is not going to flinch. Brace yourself as we dive head-first into the issues of today!

God & Government

Read Romans 13:1-7 and watch video to see my verse-by-verse explanation

A Brief History Lesson

America is a nation with a very unique system of government. The way our Founding Fathers wrote it, the government is not formed by an elite class of citizens. It is a government: “Of the people, by the people, and for the people.”

We are not a democracy, which becomes mob rule. 51% of people rule and nothing restrains the majority! John Adams wrote: "Remember, democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts and murders itself. There never was a democracy yet that did not commit suicide."

We are a Constitutional Republic in which our elected representatives, not us, vote on legislation (Constitution Art. 4 Sec. 4). As a constitutional republic – we are ruled by law and we elect people to represent us!

When Ben Franklin exited the Constitutional Convention, he was asked by a woman: “Sir, what have you given us?” His immediate response was: “A republic ma’am, if you can keep it!”

Constitution - the supreme law of our land!

3 Branches of Government

(See sermon video for complete explanation of below, and hear why it matters!)

Legislative Branch: Senate & House (Congress) creates laws. The Constitution very narrowly defines what laws they can create for the entire union. Their power is very limited. They throw many laws under the “commerce clause” – including the health care bill – which is being challenged in court and will likely reach the Supreme Court. Twenty state attorneys general are suing the federal government, saying they overstepped their constitutional roles by forcing every American to buy a product (health insurance).

Executive Branch: President & Vice-Presidential offices, plus cabinet positions, departments, and independent agencies. This branch ensures that the laws of the US are obeyed.

Judicial Branch: Judges are interpreters of the meaning & application of the law.

By the way, there is no perfect form of government! A government is only as good as the people within it. The theocracy of Israel was awesome...when the judges & people were good! But you get into the latter part of Judges and each person was doing what was right in their own eyes. The people were so corrupt that the theocracy was functioning like an anarchy!

(See my blog post: Thinking through the Issues)

Who do I vote for?

Ask three questions:

How is their character? Character does count. Can you trust this candidate to be honest, moral, and fair?
What are their convictions? Where does he/she stand on issues that Scripture is clear about & I care about?
Who is their captain? In Albany or Washington, what leadership will gain influence because of their election?

In 1934 the IRS restricted non-profits from using a substantial part of resources for lobbying and in 1954 prohibited non-profits from political endorsement or opposition. Since then only one church in the nation (near Binghamton) has lost its IRS letter ruling, but none have lost their tax exempt status. Churches are automatically exempt from applying for tax exemption. Thus the IRS cannot take away what it did not give!

One month ago across America, over one hundred pastors defied IRS regulations and recommended or opposed specific candidates for office based on biblical grounds. They sent their sermons to the IRS in advance, plus sent them a video afterward, challenging them to yank their tax-exempt status. It is a carefully orchestrated challenge to the current IRS tax code. They have done this since 2008, and the IRS hasn’t taken the bait. The Alliance Defense Fund is poised and ready to sue on behalf of any churches whose exempt status is removed. They want to take the case all the way to the US Supreme Court. Their argument is simple:

Since our nation’s founding, churches and pastors have spoken clearly for and against specific candidates for office.
Churches have been at the forefront of some of the most significant societal and governmental changes in our history, including the end of segregation, child labor, and the advancement of civil rights.
Since 1954, many pastors have self-censored their messages and ignored issues crucial to Christians.
The first amendment guarantees the right to free speech plus guarantees that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion.”
"For the last three years, we have clearly had dozens and dozens...of pastors intentionally step across the line and...turn themselves into the IRS and say, 'Ok -- we've stepped across your line; come after us…the IRS has refused to do that for three years, and that pretty much validates what we knew -- that this restriction is blatantly unconstitutional...the IRS doesn't have any interest in doing this because if they do, I believe they know they are going to lose. And if they lose, you have 370,000 pastors in America who suddenly find out that there's no restriction on them." - David Barton
ADF is not trying to get politics into the pulpit; they are trying to get government out!

I do not believe in being an outspoken pastor or church. But I do believe that we must be engaged. There is a big difference! One uses a bully-pulpit. The other uses Scripture to interpret reality!

As both Christians and American citizens, we need to be actively engaged in this government “of the people, by the people, and for the people.” If we are not, then we are abandoning our role in the government God has instituted for our nation! Churches across America were actively engaged in current issues two hundred years ago, and there is no reason for us to stand down today. When good people are silent, evil wins!

My challenge for you:

Engage, vote & pray – that’s a victory at the end of the day!

Thinking through the Abortion Issue

2010-11-02T14:17:00.002-04:00

(click here for sermon video dealing with this issue and skip to 11 min mark)

Is the terminology fair?

News organizations will skew the playing field on this issue by labeling candidates in an unfavorable light. Instead of a candidate being label “pro-life”, he is often considered “anti-abortion”. To further skew the issue, instead of the “pro-abortion” candidates being called this, they are called “pro-choice.” So you have the anti-abortionists versus the pro-choice. How unfair!

Is this procedure legal?

There is no law allowing abortion to be legal! Instead, there is a Supreme Court decision (Roe V. Wade) that gave a thumbs-up to abortion based on the supposed constitutional “right to privacy” that exists nowhere in our Constitution! Legal abortion is not the law of the land. This is simply a court decision. Court precedence has come to be known as “case law” – but this is invalid. It is the job of the legislature to make something legal or illegal. Only the legislature can create laws.

Note: Neither of the two women whose cases were cited in Roe v. Wade had abortions. In fact, Sandra Cano (Doe) had to flee her state to escape the abortion that her lawyers and family scheduled for her. Both women are now strongly pro-life! Unfortunately, this court decision has led to the deaths of over 50 million unborn boys and girls. If it weren’t for immigration, our nation’s population would be shrinking! U.S. fertility rates have been less than replacement level since 1972. We have decimated our next generation.

Should I only vote for pro-life candidates?

Some Christians are convicted about this issue, and they firmly believe that only pro-life candidates should have their vote. I respect this stand. However, we also need to be realistic. Some positions (such as town highway superintendent) will have no authority over changing this issue. Also, what if both options are pro-choice? Should I vote for the lesser of two evils? Should I refrain from voting?

In that instance, you would need to consider the leadership of the people you are voting for. If you voted for candidate A, what leadership would be empowered in Albany or Washington? Would it be leadership that is openly pro-life or pro-abortion? Sometimes we are left with lousy options for people in our local district, but we can vote for the one who would help empower state or federal pro-life leadership! And it is also ultimately that leadership that will approve future Supreme Court judges who could overturn Roe v. Wade. If Roe v. Wade was re-decided today – we have four out of nine justices who would vote to overturn! Justice Anthony Kennedy is the swing vote. We are so close to seeing abortion overturned in our nation!

A case study: A med school prof gave his students the following case study and asked what they would do: “The father had syphilis and the mother had tuberculosis. Of four previous children, the first was blind, the second died, the third was both deaf and dumb, and the fourth had tuberculosis. What would you advice the woman to do when she finds she is pregnant again?” A student immediately replied: “I would advise an abortion.” The professor replied: “Congratulations, you have just killed Beethoven!”

Is Scripture silent on abortion?

Far from it! Listen to this chillingly appropriate verse in various translations: Prov 31:8: NKJV: “Open your mouth for the speechless, in the cause of all who are appointed to die.” NET: “Open your mouth on behalf of those unable to speak, for the legal rights of all the dying.” GOOD NEWS: “Speak up for people who cannot speak for themselves. Protect the rights of all who are helpless.” Is an unborn fetus really a person? Psalm 139: “For you created my inmost being,; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” Psalm 127:3: “Children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is His reward.” Luke 1:41-44: “The baby leaped in Elizabeth’s womb.” Scripture does not consider an unborn child a fetus - but a baby!!!

If Christians do not speak out for the 1,370,000 unborn who are killed every year in the U.S. – who will? That is over 3,700 per day…over 156 during this service alone (per hour). The Catholic Church is very vocal about pro-life issues, but I’m ashamed to say that our evangelical churches are often silent. When it comes to some big choices on Tuesday, some candidates are openly pro-life and some are openly pro-choice! Please be informed!!!

What can I learn from history?

Unless we learn from history we are doomed to repeat it. We often repeat the same mistakes of previous generations. Years ago in Germany, cattle cars filled with Jews, even women and small children, would go through the back yards of Christian German families. Some of them knew what was going on. But they felt helpless to change anything. What does it take for evil to prevail? Simply for good people to remain silent! (Edmund Burke)

A Dad took his young daughter to visit a concentration camp memorial in Israel, and in stunned silence she penned a simple phrase into the guest book:

“Why didn’t somebody do something?”

God doesn't want people of great faith?

2010-09-16T10:23:00.003-04:00

Hearing missionaries share their stories can make me feel woefully human and inadequate.
My faith seems so small.

“God isn’t looking for people of great faith,
but for individuals ready to follow Him.”

- Hudson Taylor

When I read Hudson Taylor’s words, I scratch my head in confusion. I thought God does look for men and women and children of great faith. After all, you find men and women with extraordinary faith through Scripture like Abraham, Joseph, Ruth and Esther.

The more I think about their lives, the more I realize that their faith level was low initially. But they were willing to let God use them...so He did, and then their faith increased!!!

Listen to what God says:

“For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those who heart is loyal to Him.”- 2 Chronicles 16:9 (NKJV)

We have a God who looks not at our level of faith, but our level of willingness. Am I willing to sacrifice my dreams and ideals in exchange for His?

Am I open to being who He wants me to be,

doing what He wants me to do,

and going where He wants me to go?

The only answer for an obedient kid should be: “Yes!”

I’m not sure I’m there yet!

Are you?

When I grow up...

2010-09-04T16:54:00.008-04:00

“I can’t wait to get to work!”
Do you say this every morning when you wake up?

Have you ever asked:
“Am I living in my calling?”
Towards the end of high school is when most of us (including me)
really begin wrestling through this issue:

I searched Scripture.
I sought advice from my parents and pastor.
I prayed.
And I can say with deep gratitude that God crystallized my calling…

There is a deep level of satisfaction & meaning when you live in your calling.
After Rob preached last Sunday, I asked him how he felt.
He replied that he was a bit disappointed it was over –
because preaching was such a meaningful process for him.
I asked if he ever felt that level of satisfaction with his job.
His firm reply was “No!”

Here’s what it feels like to live outside of your calling:
I detest my work and dread going every morning
I could care less about work, just give me my friends and hobbies and I’ll be fine
I enjoy my work but have a nagging feeling that I was meant for so much more

Living outside of calling can produce deeply rooted angst.
Angst is passion unable to break free.
It feels like restlessness…a nagging burden.

But we feel too insecure, we value safety and familiarity, and we find it hard to move on.
So we slip into that TGIF mindset:
we hate Mondays and live for weekends, vacations, and retirement!

Some of you are in careers that you know God didn’t call you to –
but the pay is too good to quit.
The insecurity is too paralyzing to pursue something different.
Isn’t life too short to waste?!!!
Isn’t God’s calling too crucial to ignore??

Meanwhile his disciples urged him, "Rabbi, eat something."
But he said to them, "I have food to eat that you know nothing about."
Then his disciples said to each other, "Could someone have brought him food?"
"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.
Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest'?
I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.
John 4:31-35 (NIV)

I’m not asking you to quit your job and turn your life upside down.
Even if I was, you shouldn’t listen to me.
My question for you this morning is simple:
“Is God calling you to pursue a different path than the one you’ve chosen?”

Let’s describe what it’s like to live within your calling:
The satisfaction is deep.
I am able to sleep with myself at night.
When I am living in my calling, I know it!
Weekends, vacation, and retirement are boring compared to my calling!
I have the ability to say: “I would be proud to have my kids follow in my footsteps!”
This is not my career – so I don’t live off the praises of people.
This is my calling – I live off the praises of God.
My only job is to be obedient to His calling on my life.

Let me explain “calling” using the lives of a few people:

Moses the Outcast
(Exodus 3)

Preparation for calling: 40 years in desert tending sheep
When God called him from a burning bush, Moses had a simple reply: “I CAN’T”
God didn’t reply: “I’m sorry Moses, I picked the wrong guy. I came to the wrong bush. I meant to appear to the other guy in the middle of nowhere.”
God gave him Aaron – mixed blessing…both a help and a hindrance! This kept Moses very dependent on God!
Moses the Outcast became Moses the Deliverer, leading over two million Jewish people out of slavery in Egypt and to the edge of the Promised Land – changing the course of history.

Jonah the Preacher
(Jonah 1-4)

The calling came to Jonah and was not well received. He had only eight words to preach: “Forty more days and Ninevah will be overturned.” (3:4) His reply was basically: “Yeah, sounds good God. I’ll go give the Taliban a heads-up before you destroy them!”
His reply was simply: “I WON’T”
God gave him a big fish – mixed blessing…saved from drowning but with lots of gastric juices! Kept Jonah very dependent on God! Whenever he needed a reminder, I’m sure the memories came flooding back!
He became Jonah the Proclaimer – taking God’s message to a wicked and cruel city that deserved hell. Because of his calling, a city of over half a million people was spared God’s wrath…confessed their sin…and received God’s mercy.

Saul the Activist
(Acts 9)

Saul was walking towards Damascus to imprison Christians when God called him. His response was “I WILL”. This is the only appropriate response to God’s call. Not “I can’t” or “I won’t”…not even “I can” because I can’t – only God can!
Mixed blessing: Given thorn in the flesh –made Paul very dependent on God…it hurt & annoyed him! (See 2 Cor. 12:7-10) Paul’s weakness framed God’s strength!
He went from Saul to Activist to Paul the Evangelist…from persecutor to prophet. He took the Good News to the outer reaches of civilization…almost single-handedly took Jesus beyond Asia into Europe and consequently the rest of the world. He was a passionate believer whose re-guided activism became his calling – and resulted in our faith today!

The above men were all called by God,
all became Bible heroes,
and all had mixed blessings that kept them dependent on God.
But only one responded appropriately to God’s call.

How have I responded to God’s calling?
Have I listened?
Have I obeyed?
What’s holding me back?

What is God’s calling for my life?
What if I had two options for my life, and I could see down the annals of time:

Stay in my current job – reach 45 people for Christ
Become a waiter – reach 1 person for Christ

Which is God’s will?
Of course to reach more people, right?!
That’s pragmatic Christianity – “Ends justifies the means” theology

The correct answer is…
I don’t have enough information –
because I don’t know which God was calling me to!
What if he was calling me to be a waiter?
I cannot focus on the results – that’s God’s job.
I can only focus on being obedient to my calling!
A “Jeremiah” calling is one that produces no fruit but is obedient!

Do I realize I was made for a purpose?
When I become what God wants me to become,
I begin doing what God wants me to do!

Some are called to work overseas.
Some are called to work locally.
The bottom line is that all of us are called!
And every calling is significant.
What is your calling?
Are you living in it?

Missions = answering your call!
Each of us has a calling we must pursue!
What’s holding you back?

Character (vs. competence)
We were often asked as kids: “What do you want to do when you grow up?”
We gave all kinds of answers:
Firefighter, airline pilot, football player, engineer, astronaut

But perhaps we were asked the wrong question.
Perhaps we should have been asked:
“Who will you become when you grow up?”

Our focus should be on developing into a man or woman of God
so that I can accomplish the duty that God placed me on this earth to do.
A CALL TO MINISTRY IS A CALL TO PREPARE!!!

Steps to prepare for my calling…

Get a burden – look around and see reality with the eyes of Jesus
Get out of debt – free myself up to give to others, live on less, not be tied down, and give to others. Then when God calls, I’ll be ready!
Develop a deep devotional life – I can’t pursue a calling if I’m not pursing the Caller!
Serve in new areas – in ways that stretch me, forcing me to develop my strengths and identify my weaknesses
Invest in someone – if ministry means reproducing myself, I better get started!
Get advice – from people who know me and from people I respect

Once I am willing (calling) and useable (character),
God will make me able (competence)

When I grow up, who will I become?
I must pursue more than a career…
I must pursue my calling!

When I grow up (PREVIEW)

2010-09-03T08:04:00.002-04:00

“What are you going to be when you grow up?”

As kids we heard this question all the time. Our responses then make us chuckle now:

Astronaut
Firefighter
Policeman
Football player
Superhero
Your answer here_____________

My all-time favorite is what my brother used to say: A garbage man on a motorcycle. (Don’t even ask!)

Perhaps this question reveals more about the questioner than the answerer. It shows our focus on a career. This is exactly what most of us have prioritized. We went to school. We graduated with a degree. We got a job. Now we live for weekends and can’t wait for retirement. Somewhere along the way we lost that childhood spark to be or do something great.

Maybe we are asking the wrong question.
Perhaps we should be asking:
“Who will I become when I grow up?”
This question forces me to find my calling and develop my character.
This is the question we tackle on Sunday...

Book Review: "It" by Craig Groeschel

2010-08-19T14:52:00.001-04:00

Book Review

It: How Churches and Leaders Can Get It and Keep It

By Craig Groeschel

One of my closest friends told me to read this book. (Will Riechel, Pastor of Endicott Family Bible Church, Recruiter for Davis College, and Drummer for Scapegoat & Center Stage Ministries). I'm glad he did!

As I settled down to read, I was immediately distracted. For starters, if I was ever to publish a book, I would want it to look like "It". The cover, color, and size borders on perfection in my mind. But then I remembered my Mom's warning: "Don't judge a book by it's cover." My mind snapped back to attention, and I began to earnestly read the content.

This book has stimulated my mind and stirred my creative juices. It is now filled with doggy ears and highlighting. I should have had a notepad handy as I read...my notes are scribbled on everything nearby. Craig (Pastor of LifeChurch.tv) is an out-of-the box thinker. He is passionate about ministry. More importantly, he is passionate about God. He rightly prioritizes obedience over ministry success.

The stories, illustrations, and examples throughout the book paint a picture of this mystical "it". "It" is tough to define, but easy to notice. People and churches that have "it" are unmistakable. The momentum, excitement, and passion flows easily from their faces and doors. People and churches without it cannot fake it. Even the church janitor knows if his church is missing "it"!

Craig writes about failure, vision, divine focus, innovation, and kingdom-mindedness. His writing is often edgy, sometimes sarcastic, and consistently sincere. Chapter 6 on camaraderie borders on crass and lacks tact - so read carefully. His discussions on innovation and failing forward are a breath of fresh air for ministers - especially A-types and perfectionists!

The climax comes in the final two chapters. Craig knows it and calls them "the most important chapters in this book." (pg. 160) In them he talks about the failure of man-centered and man-powered ministry...regardless of the results. He shares candidly about his calloused and self-centered ministry past. He pleads with his readers to restore their first love.

Craig prays three prayers daily: "Stretch me, ruin me, heal me." I will begin praying something similar from now on. Don't ask me to explain these prayers - get a copy of the book and read for yourself. If you are a ministry leader, I guarantee you'll be stretched by what you read...answering the first part of the above prayer!

I read "It"...I liked it...I'm praying for it!