Last week I was broken in several ways from the Advance conference held here in Durham. One of the strongest came from Matt Chandler. Before he dove into his sermon, he was frightened by the thought of a conference without the work of God's Spirit. He stopped and asked us as a body to pray for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. This is huge.
I don't know about you, but it is very easy for me to chart out a plan in ministry, set some goals, spread the vision, but somehow bypass the Holy Spirit in the process. I don't think plans and goals and vision are bad things, but they are useless without the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Conferences are a waste of money if the Holy Spirit doesn't work. Churches are dead if the Holy Spirit doesn't show up. Ministries are lifeless without the work of his Spirit. Marriages are harsh and bitter without him. My life is cold and empty without him.
So, this is an urge and a reminder to beg for the Holy Spirit. I've said it before and I'll say it again, I want things to happen in my life and ministry that cannot be explained through human exertion. I want God to move in people when a sermon sucks. I want God to break us open when the song is off key. I want God to devastate my heart when I drive through my neighborhood. I want those far from God to become filled with life. I want my marriage to be beautiful and miraculous. Ultimately, I want God to have the glory in my life and ministry. I want to point back to him every time I'm asked why things are the way they are. I don't want to look back and see what my hands have done. Rather, I want to look back and see God working in and around and through these weak hands.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Sunday, May 31, 2009
"Religious" People
This morning my pastor spent some time going through a portion of Scripture from Matthew chapter 23. Basically, the chapter is a discourse Jesus has with the "religious" people of his day. If you don't know, Jesus and religious people didn't get along very well. Actually, they murdered him. Shortly after Jesus rebukes the religious people in chapter 23, they begin to organize their plot to have Jesus arrested and put to death. Here is a summary my pastor gave called "6 Timeless Characteristics of Religion." And just so you know, "religious" people are found in every religion, and they are characterized as follows.
1. Religious people are obsessed with recognition.
Religious people want to be praised by others, seen by others, and recognized by others. Their religious action is propelled by motives of self-glory.
2. Religious people substitute religious ritual for knowing God.
Rather than seeking a personal relationship with God, religious people are more concerned with their rituals. They mistakenly think the ritual is they're relationship with God.
3. Religious people elevate secondary traditions above love for God.
They become extremely unbalanced on what is important. They make minor issues central and neglect the weightier matters of justice, mercy and faithfulness. They care more about the outward appearance than the inward reality. They focus on buildings, clothes, music styles and order of services instead of life change.
4. Religious people elevate religious ritual over a love for others.
Unfortunately, in North Carolina, there are more churches than homeless people. I realize not all homeless people desire another lifestyle, but is Southern Christianity focused on the right things? I'm afraid not. It's unfortunate...and I am to blame.
5. Religious people are more aware of the sins of others than they are of their own sins.
6. Religious people think we're talking about someone else.
You probably have been thinking of all the religious people you would like to receive stoning, but before we throw the first stone, we're probably more religious than we think. It's true. I'm more religious than I think. You are more religious than you think. I thank God He allows me to see my religiosity, and doesn't let me walk blindly.
1. Religious people are obsessed with recognition.
Religious people want to be praised by others, seen by others, and recognized by others. Their religious action is propelled by motives of self-glory.
2. Religious people substitute religious ritual for knowing God.
Rather than seeking a personal relationship with God, religious people are more concerned with their rituals. They mistakenly think the ritual is they're relationship with God.
3. Religious people elevate secondary traditions above love for God.
They become extremely unbalanced on what is important. They make minor issues central and neglect the weightier matters of justice, mercy and faithfulness. They care more about the outward appearance than the inward reality. They focus on buildings, clothes, music styles and order of services instead of life change.
4. Religious people elevate religious ritual over a love for others.
Unfortunately, in North Carolina, there are more churches than homeless people. I realize not all homeless people desire another lifestyle, but is Southern Christianity focused on the right things? I'm afraid not. It's unfortunate...and I am to blame.
5. Religious people are more aware of the sins of others than they are of their own sins.
6. Religious people think we're talking about someone else.
You probably have been thinking of all the religious people you would like to receive stoning, but before we throw the first stone, we're probably more religious than we think. It's true. I'm more religious than I think. You are more religious than you think. I thank God He allows me to see my religiosity, and doesn't let me walk blindly.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
After I reasoned to never be a part of something called, "twitter," I must admit, I'm totally hooked to this new social networking phenomenon. Although it started in 2006, I just found out about this new networking tool. At first I was skeptical and considered it to be immensely egocentric (in which it can be), but I decided to use it rather to find links, books, blogs, and to stay connected with my community of peeps. Today, I'm actually sick at home, and my two small group leaders have used Twitter to encourage and pray for me. That's awesome!
Basically, Twitter is similar to Facebook status updates, telling people what your doing, think, reading, etc. You can only write up to 140 character per "tweet" to inform people, so that makes it concise and short. You choose who you would like to follow, and others choose whether or not they would like to follow you. It's a brilliant concept already used by our church, small group, staff, and other ministry networks. On the left side of my page, you can read my latest "tweets."
If you aren't on Twitter, jump on board. I'm sure you'll love it!
Basically, Twitter is similar to Facebook status updates, telling people what your doing, think, reading, etc. You can only write up to 140 character per "tweet" to inform people, so that makes it concise and short. You choose who you would like to follow, and others choose whether or not they would like to follow you. It's a brilliant concept already used by our church, small group, staff, and other ministry networks. On the left side of my page, you can read my latest "tweets."
If you aren't on Twitter, jump on board. I'm sure you'll love it!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Advance 09
I'm proud to tell you about an incredible conference coming to Durham, North Carolina, June 4-6, 2009. Advance 09 is designed to spark a resurgence of the local church, especially here in the South. It's all about God's gift to his people - the Church. Among the incredible line up of speakers includes my pastor, J.D. Greear, from the Summit Church. Then others include John Piper, Mark Driscoll, Matt Chandler, Ed Stetzer, Daniel Akin (my seminary president), Eric Mason, Brian Chapel and Tyler Jones. You definitely need to check out this short trailer and register at Advance 09. You can also follow Advance 09 on Twitter.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
TOMS Shoes on AT&T
Blake Mycoskie, Chief Shoe Giver of TOMS Shoes, was featured in an AT&T commercial as part of AT&T’s latest ad campaign. Blake, a Christian, developed TOMS Shoes to be a shoe company that exists to provide shoes for children across the globe who don't have shoes. For every pair of shoes they sell, they give one pair to a child in need, literally One for One. I personally own a pair myself (and have an iPhone through At&T!!). They also have a cool look to them. I didn't know AT&T was going to be featuring TOMS until I saw the first commercial whiling viewing the Masters Golf Tournament this past weekend. I was blown away.
Filming for the commercial began in early February 2009. Using a variety of locations, shooting stretched over several weeks and two continents. The result is a commercial that captures the essence of TOMS.
Since its beginning in 2006, TOMS Shoes has given 140,000 pairs of shoes to children in Argentina, Ethiopia, and South Africa. TOMS plans to give 300,000 pairs of shoes to children in need in 2009.
First aired during the Masters golf tournament, and slated to run over 12 weeks, the AT&T ad with Blake will allow TOMS Shoes to reach hundreds of millions of people. TOMS’ simple One for One movement should inspire viewers, which will allow TOMS to give even more shoes to children in need around the world.
Make your next shoe purchase be TOMS!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Lunch with a successful church planter
On Tuesday I met with David Cox, someone I would consider to be a successful church planter. After several years of ministry, David planted a church here in Raleigh at the age of 34. He remained at this church for 7 years and watched the church grow to 700 people. The church is still thriving and keeps a regular attendance upwards of 1,400 people 12 years later. While numbers aren't the main criteria for a healthy church, I do believe a healthy church should grow.
Here are some random insights I viciously scribbled in my journal from our time together. I hope you enjoy.
• “God is absolutely faithful and completely unpredictable”
• Say “no” to the sheep when you know what is best…they are sheep; don’t be a pushover
• The people who come to a church plant are often seeking control and power
• Wait at least 1 year before adding elders
• A church plant is less defined during the beginning, and as you define the church, you will loose people who don’t like where you are going
• Be balanced in all the purposes of the church and keep prayer as the vital foundation upon which all the purposes stand
• 1 pastor can only manage up to 100 people, so equip and empower others to do ministry; let go and let them run with it; meet with a gifted person 1 on 1, inspire them with a vision for a specific ministry, and let them go for it
• 3 vital roles of the pastor—Preach the Word, Pray, & Lead…only the pastor can do these things, and if he doesn’t, no one will
• Don’t target a particular demographic, but target the purposes of the church; if you are doing your purposes, they will attract all ages
• Don’t plant a church because you think it will be cool or interesting; only plant if you know God is leading you to do so
Here are some random insights I viciously scribbled in my journal from our time together. I hope you enjoy.
• “God is absolutely faithful and completely unpredictable”
• Say “no” to the sheep when you know what is best…they are sheep; don’t be a pushover
• The people who come to a church plant are often seeking control and power
• Wait at least 1 year before adding elders
• A church plant is less defined during the beginning, and as you define the church, you will loose people who don’t like where you are going
• Be balanced in all the purposes of the church and keep prayer as the vital foundation upon which all the purposes stand
• 1 pastor can only manage up to 100 people, so equip and empower others to do ministry; let go and let them run with it; meet with a gifted person 1 on 1, inspire them with a vision for a specific ministry, and let them go for it
• 3 vital roles of the pastor—Preach the Word, Pray, & Lead…only the pastor can do these things, and if he doesn’t, no one will
• Don’t target a particular demographic, but target the purposes of the church; if you are doing your purposes, they will attract all ages
• Don’t plant a church because you think it will be cool or interesting; only plant if you know God is leading you to do so
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
My Commitments in Marriage
I'm a list guy. I like to write things down, make notes and journal. So, I've made a list of my commitments in marriage to Ashley and to God. Here it is for what it's worth...I think it's pretty awesome. Let me know if you have ideas of things I should add.
1. Love Jesus
2. Have a job and keep it
3. Leave Mom & Dad—Genesis 2 & Ephesians 5
4. Become one with Ashley & never leave her—Genesis 2:18-25; Matthew 19:6; 1 Corinthians 7:10
5. Ashley is God’s daughter, so treat her as you should
6. Ashley is Bill’s daughter, so take care of her
7. Be a one-woman man—1 Timothy 3:2; 1 Corinthians 7:2
--a. Keep my eyes off other girls & pornography
--b. Keep my mind devoted to Ashley
8. Love Ashley as Jesus has loved me and the church and gave himself up for it—Ephesians 5:25-; Colossians 3:19
9. Disciple Ashley—Ephesians 5:26-27
10. Honor Ashley—1 Peter 3:7
--a. Physically
--b. Emotionally
--c. Verbally
--d. Financially
--e. Practically
--f. Parentally
--g. Spiritually
11. Serve Ashley as if I were serving Jesus—Colossians 3:23-24
--a. Practically with tasks
--b. Sexually—1 Corinthians 7:3-5
12. Lead Ashley
--a. God holds me accountable for my family—Genesis 3; 1 Timothy 3:4-5
--b. I am the head of Ashley—Ephesians 5:23
13. Provide for Ashley-1 Timothy 5:8
14. Protect Ashley
15. Follow Jesus example, not Adam’s
16. Don’t be a coward or a chauvinist, be a godly man
1. Love Jesus
2. Have a job and keep it
3. Leave Mom & Dad—Genesis 2 & Ephesians 5
4. Become one with Ashley & never leave her—Genesis 2:18-25; Matthew 19:6; 1 Corinthians 7:10
5. Ashley is God’s daughter, so treat her as you should
6. Ashley is Bill’s daughter, so take care of her
7. Be a one-woman man—1 Timothy 3:2; 1 Corinthians 7:2
--a. Keep my eyes off other girls & pornography
--b. Keep my mind devoted to Ashley
8. Love Ashley as Jesus has loved me and the church and gave himself up for it—Ephesians 5:25-; Colossians 3:19
9. Disciple Ashley—Ephesians 5:26-27
10. Honor Ashley—1 Peter 3:7
--a. Physically
--b. Emotionally
--c. Verbally
--d. Financially
--e. Practically
--f. Parentally
--g. Spiritually
11. Serve Ashley as if I were serving Jesus—Colossians 3:23-24
--a. Practically with tasks
--b. Sexually—1 Corinthians 7:3-5
12. Lead Ashley
--a. God holds me accountable for my family—Genesis 3; 1 Timothy 3:4-5
--b. I am the head of Ashley—Ephesians 5:23
13. Provide for Ashley-1 Timothy 5:8
14. Protect Ashley
15. Follow Jesus example, not Adam’s
16. Don’t be a coward or a chauvinist, be a godly man
Monday, March 23, 2009
Pitfalls in Church Planting
No, I'm not an expert on church planting, but I'm learning as much as I can so that I will be well prepared one day to be a church planter and hopefully spark a church planting movement. However, some say Ed Stetzer is an expert on church planting. Ed is a great friend to our pastor and our church, he is the president of Lifeway Research, he has been involved with church planting for years and years. At the Summit, we have a church planting training program called SendRDU. Our pastor, J.D., has a God-sized vision to plant 1,000 churches through the Summit before he retires (which he has already scheduled in 2038...or something like that). Stetzer spoke for SendRDU last Tuesday at our monthly Missional Church Forum about Pitfalls in Church Planting. Here are his main points and the take-aways.
1. Lack of Preparation
Guys who typically have the drive of a normal church planter aren't the most prepared. Preparation needs to happen most in the area of spiritual preparation. Church planting is not the greatest environment for the leader to be fed spiritually.
2. Stressful Family Relationships
Planting a church magnifies and creates family issues. You are not the only church planter. Because of the work, your family is also planting the church. Both spouses must be enthusiastic about the work. Disaster happens when one is enthusiastic and one is willing. Willing won't keep you in church planting.
3. Inadequate Training
Read at least 10 books on church planting before you start. Don't fall in love with a strategy or method. Fall in love with your city, and then develop the best strategy and method to reach that city.
4. Lack of Accountability
Planters normally have more skill than maturity. It is crucial to have several mature mentors to be your guides.
5. Unrealistic Expectations
The average North American successful church plant is averaging 100 people after 4 years. This is a realistic expectation. This doesn't mean you shouldn't dream big, but keep your dreams from turning into number goals. Sometime numbers goals may be helpful, but often they are detrimental.
6. Broken Partnerships
Unfortunately, "mother churches" pull back from the plant because of unmet expectations. Don't plant a church because you think there are no good churches. Plant through a healthy church who can partner with you. Don't do it alone.
1. Lack of Preparation
Guys who typically have the drive of a normal church planter aren't the most prepared. Preparation needs to happen most in the area of spiritual preparation. Church planting is not the greatest environment for the leader to be fed spiritually.
2. Stressful Family Relationships
Planting a church magnifies and creates family issues. You are not the only church planter. Because of the work, your family is also planting the church. Both spouses must be enthusiastic about the work. Disaster happens when one is enthusiastic and one is willing. Willing won't keep you in church planting.
3. Inadequate Training
Read at least 10 books on church planting before you start. Don't fall in love with a strategy or method. Fall in love with your city, and then develop the best strategy and method to reach that city.
4. Lack of Accountability
Planters normally have more skill than maturity. It is crucial to have several mature mentors to be your guides.
5. Unrealistic Expectations
The average North American successful church plant is averaging 100 people after 4 years. This is a realistic expectation. This doesn't mean you shouldn't dream big, but keep your dreams from turning into number goals. Sometime numbers goals may be helpful, but often they are detrimental.
6. Broken Partnerships
Unfortunately, "mother churches" pull back from the plant because of unmet expectations. Don't plant a church because you think there are no good churches. Plant through a healthy church who can partner with you. Don't do it alone.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Sex
If you're wondering, no, I'm not an expert when it comes to sex. I'm engaged and getting married on July 25th. So, ask me in a few months if you need advice. Yeh, I'm a Christian who practices chastity before marriage. Anyways, I heard a great talk a few weeks ago by Mark Driscoll to 800 UNC college students concerning 3 ways our culture views sex.
1. Sex is god.
This is the predominant view of sex in our culture. We spiritually bow down to sex and worship it. It is our highest value and treasure. We long for it and serve it, and we allow it to consume our mind. We present our bodies to it and make sacrifices for it. Ultimately, it is our god. Americans spend more money on the sex industry than Major League Baseball, Basketball and Football combined. This is quite unfortunate.
2. Sex is gross.
This is the predominant view of sex among most conservative Christians and others. We don't talk about it. We sweep it under the rug and hope nobody brings it up. When it is brought up, we are told it is wicked and ungodly. It is nasty and naughty. It is what the pagans practice. This is also unfortunate.
3. Sex is a gift.
This last view is the proper and right view of sex. It understands that sex is one of the greatest gifts God has given to his creation. It is to be enjoyed and practiced. It is God's design to fill the earth with his people. It is a beautiful thing, a good thing. However, like most things in life, we unfortunately take a "good" thing and turn it into a "god" thing. Sex is supposed to glorify God. We should marvel at the knowledge and goodness of God when we think of sex. Therefore, let's keep sex in it's proper place where God designed it. He designed sex to be practiced between one man and one woman for life in the confines in marriage. This isn't because God is a mean and restrictive God. He designed it this way because this is the way it brings most satisfaction and fulfillment. When we exchange God's design for our own, we always miss the mark and ruin a good thing. He cares for us. He loves us. He wants the best for us. He is wiser than we are, and we should follow his plan and creation. This is where satisfaction, joy and fulfillment come in life.
1. Sex is god.
This is the predominant view of sex in our culture. We spiritually bow down to sex and worship it. It is our highest value and treasure. We long for it and serve it, and we allow it to consume our mind. We present our bodies to it and make sacrifices for it. Ultimately, it is our god. Americans spend more money on the sex industry than Major League Baseball, Basketball and Football combined. This is quite unfortunate.
2. Sex is gross.
This is the predominant view of sex among most conservative Christians and others. We don't talk about it. We sweep it under the rug and hope nobody brings it up. When it is brought up, we are told it is wicked and ungodly. It is nasty and naughty. It is what the pagans practice. This is also unfortunate.
3. Sex is a gift.
This last view is the proper and right view of sex. It understands that sex is one of the greatest gifts God has given to his creation. It is to be enjoyed and practiced. It is God's design to fill the earth with his people. It is a beautiful thing, a good thing. However, like most things in life, we unfortunately take a "good" thing and turn it into a "god" thing. Sex is supposed to glorify God. We should marvel at the knowledge and goodness of God when we think of sex. Therefore, let's keep sex in it's proper place where God designed it. He designed sex to be practiced between one man and one woman for life in the confines in marriage. This isn't because God is a mean and restrictive God. He designed it this way because this is the way it brings most satisfaction and fulfillment. When we exchange God's design for our own, we always miss the mark and ruin a good thing. He cares for us. He loves us. He wants the best for us. He is wiser than we are, and we should follow his plan and creation. This is where satisfaction, joy and fulfillment come in life.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Believe, Part 2
I wanted to share with you a few statements or anthems our church is standing on during "Believe" (the Mission Expansion Project; you can find part 1 here). It has been awesome to see our church invigorated and inspired to be a part of the mission of God for our city. Here we go:
1. "I don't want to build a monument with my life...I want to birth a movement."
2. "All that is necessary to complete the mission of God in the world is already in the hands of his church."
3. "The value you place on something is shown by what you'll give up for it."
4. "Throughout the Bible and throughout history, God shows off his power when people believe."
5. "Buildings are tools. People are our mission."
6. "I don't know what God is going to do, but I'll tell you what he won't do: he won't get up in the morning and check the stock market to determine which of his marvelous works he can afford to accomplish."
7. "God's people act differently in a time of recession because they know they have Jesus today and tomorrow."
Thursday, February 26, 2009
It's official, I'm engaged!
As of last night, at 8:00pm, I am officially engaged! Wow! Here's how it went down...Ashley is ridiculously hard to surprise because she is most brilliant when it comes to gaining secret information. So, I pulled out all the stops...including a few lies (you have to do what you have to do). For the past several months, she knows I've been writing and composing a special song for her. Every few weeks I told her it is coming along little by little, trying to build some excitement. Since she has been expecting a proposal for the past few weeks, I told her I didn't have the ring, I haven't talked with her Dad, but I would play her the song to tide her over until the proposal (I talked to her Dad the previous day and picked up the ring yesterday). Well, yesterday I told her the song was ready, and since I was trying to surprise her, I couldn't have the ring on me because she feels my pockets often, hoping to find the ring box. Knowing I would sing her song to her downstairs, I previously hid the ring in the game drawer of her entertainment system. Well, the song moved her to tears (it was the bomb), and to make sure she was totally surprised, I asked, "Ok. Now can we watch 24?" She said, "What? Are you serious?" Then I said, "Or we can play a game," as I moved towards the game drawer. She recommended a game, but then I turned around and said, "I have something better." She was blown away and couldn't believe what was happening! I dropped to one knee and asked for her to marry me. She immediately said "Yes!"
It truly was the most incredible feeling ever. I'm not gonna lie...I was pretty nervous, not because I thought she would deny, but because you only get one chance to make it right, and I wanted to blow her away. Mission successful!
Monday, February 23, 2009
Believe
As of February, my church has just begun a 3 year Mission Expansion Project for current facilities development, new campuses in RDU, and a permanent broadcast campus. We're calling it BELIEVE based on Ephesians 3:20-21,
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Ultimately, our church is truly experiencing a movement of God. For some reason, God has decided to take our proverbial "five loaves and two fish" and multiply them into something miraculous. We are making a huge impact in our city, tons of people are experiencing Jesus, the gospel is advancing, the broken are being healed, the skeptics are becoming followers, the poor are being clothed and fed, and the church is being inspired to seek first the kingdom above all other things (additionally, in six years we have planted four churches, three new campuses, and currently have 40 members who are serving as international church planters). It is awesome! I love my church! If you want to hear what the media is saying, you can catch this story covered by NBC 17 here. They were at our main campus in Brier Creek two Sundays ago to see what our "Day of Hope" was all about.
The next blog post will include some of the major statements our church is rallying behind. They are powerful.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Hanging out with Mark Driscoll
Last Thursday I had the opportunity to spend some time with my pastor, who lined up a speaking engagement at UNC for Mark Driscoll. Driscoll was in town for the Acts 29 Boot Camp and the 20/20 Collegiate Conference at Southeastern Seminary. He is one of the best communicators and pastors I've ever heard. His church, Mars Hill Church, is thriving in the least churched city in America, Seattle. He has written several books, he speaks hundreds of times a year, he founded the Acts 29 Movement and The Resurgence, he has a great wife and five children.
Fortunately, I was able to hang out with Mark for a couple hours Thursday evening. He is wicked smart, hilarious, encouraging and humble. Here are a two insights I'll share with you from my time with him:
1. His church has grown from the size of a small group to 8,000 people in 12 years. There has been a 40% conversion growth, which is incredible for any church. When I asked him to elaborate on this he said, "Honestly, I know this may sound cliche, but it has all happened because of the grace of God." I also asked him if this only happened during the Sunday services, to which he immediately replied, "It happens all the time. Our people are great about building relationships with Non-Christians. They hang out, eat together, and follow up with people who visit our church."
2. Right before Mark went on stage to speak to 750 college students, I asked, "So, what goes on in your mind before you preach?" He said, "Nothing really. Right now I'm thinking about my kids. If you get nervous before you speak, you've already bummed out. Truthfully, you just have to have some balls and say what you know to say...especially to college kids."
You should get his podcast and visit his website. I would highly recommend every book Driscoll has authored. I've read most of them, and they have been transforming for my life and ministry. Seriously, you want to follow this guy!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
More Pics
Here are a few pics from the massive St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City. I cannot imagine the worth of this place. While Catholics fall under the umbrella of Christianity, there are some obvious differences in how Protestants read the Scriptures and implement them. The highlight of my pictures was from a statue of St. Jude. I'm not completely sure if this guy is identical with the Biblical author, but I had to take a picture and post it on the blog because this is where the blog name comes, Jude 25. It reads, "to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen."
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
New York City
Last week I spent three days in New York City on Manhattan Island with my lovely girlfriend. Fortunately, her Alma Mada, App State, has a cheap place for alumni to stay when visiting the city. It's a cool little pad on 24th Street and Park Avenue, and the layout is similar to a hostile. Thanks ASU!
If you've ever been to New York City, you relate when I say...I was completely blown away by the size of the buildings, the crowds of people, the fast pace society, and the cultural melting pot of endless nationalities. The city is incredible. We visited Times Square, the Empire State Building, Battery Park, Pier 17, Wall Street, Central Park (with a carriage ride), the Late Show with David Letterman (we were promoted to the 2nd row because of Ashley's enthusiasm!!), Rupert's Deli, the Broadway show "Wicked," the American Museum of Natural History, the Plaza Hotel, FAO Schwarz (Yes, we played on the big piano), Trump Towers, The Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick's Cathedral, China Town, Little Italy, Macy's, and much more. Ashley was awesome. From the moment I gave her the go-ahead for the trip, she already had our agenda planned for the entire three days, including meals. She's the bomb.
There was so much insight I learned from our visit. One, Ashley and I were in the minority most of the time, especially in the subway. It was quite humbling to be out of our comfort zone. Two, you have to make mad cash to live in Manhattan! Three, it is ridiculously cold in January. Four, always bring running shoes because you walk endlessly. Five, Jesus created and loves every single person in this city. He has made them to know him, to glorify him, and to live a joyful life of abundance through him. He is the God of this city. It was a great visit, and you should definitely check it out sometime while you are still in good shape.
(more pics in the future)
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Missional Networks
A huge goal for me is to be constantly engaged with the unchurched community around me. For years it seemed as if I only had relationships with people in a Christian bubble. It was not my plan to be this way, and I find it very unfortunate and sad that this was my reality. What is even more discouraging is the process of escaping this context. I was so far removed that it took approximately an entire year to feel like I had made a complete escape. When I look at Jesus’ life, he poured time into two main networks. First, he was constantly teaching and training his disciples, growing them and developing them to be leaders for his mission. And second, he was hanging out with the social misfits, prostitutes, and crooks of his day, namely, the unchurched crowd. So, here is a list of the networks I see for developing relationships with those who are unchurched. I have not mastered this list, and I don’t know most of my neighbors by name, but I’m constantly trying to engage people in these areas.
1. Family—often the first place to begin is your immediate and distant family. While this is sometimes a hard group to reach because of past experiences or fear of pushing family away, you likely already have a relationship with these people.
2. Neighborhood—unfortunately we live in an individualistic society, and this may be an obstacle for your area, but this is a huge place to develop relationships with the unchurched.
a. Meet your neighbors
b. Invite them over for dinner and parties
c. Participate in Neighborhood functions (block parties)
d. Use the holidays. Meet people at Halloween; give gifts (cookies and food) at Christmas
e. Volunteer with the HOA (Home Owners Association)
3. Workplace—this is probably your best network for reaching unchurched people. You spend upwards of 40-60 hours a week with these people month after month after month
a. Attend work parties
b. Bless your office with breakfast or lunch occasionally
c. Engage in conversations when people seem interested
d. Invite your co-workers over for dinner, parties, baby showers, wedding showers, ball games, etc…
e. Be intentional on business trips to spark conversations in the car or plane
4. School/Education—get to know your classmates and professors
a. Invite your classmates to parties and functions
b. Volunteer at your school
c. Bless your class in a creative way
5. Social Ministry—bless those in your city who are marginalized and in poverty; engage with rescue missions and programs who bless the poor
6. Community Programs—volunteer to serve when your city has a marathon or fundraiser
7. Sports Leagues—if you or your children are active in sports, use these opportunities to be a part of a city league; engage with others players and parents and invite them to hang out at parties and such
8. Recreation/Entertainment—wherever you find yourself every day in the community, be intentional about knowing people where you regularly go; try to visit the same places regularly so you get to know the people
a. Coffee shop
b. Restaurants
c. Movie theatre
d. Gas station
e. Grocery store
9. Online Relationships
a. Facebook
b. Twitter
c. Myspace
1. Family—often the first place to begin is your immediate and distant family. While this is sometimes a hard group to reach because of past experiences or fear of pushing family away, you likely already have a relationship with these people.
2. Neighborhood—unfortunately we live in an individualistic society, and this may be an obstacle for your area, but this is a huge place to develop relationships with the unchurched.
a. Meet your neighbors
b. Invite them over for dinner and parties
c. Participate in Neighborhood functions (block parties)
d. Use the holidays. Meet people at Halloween; give gifts (cookies and food) at Christmas
e. Volunteer with the HOA (Home Owners Association)
3. Workplace—this is probably your best network for reaching unchurched people. You spend upwards of 40-60 hours a week with these people month after month after month
a. Attend work parties
b. Bless your office with breakfast or lunch occasionally
c. Engage in conversations when people seem interested
d. Invite your co-workers over for dinner, parties, baby showers, wedding showers, ball games, etc…
e. Be intentional on business trips to spark conversations in the car or plane
4. School/Education—get to know your classmates and professors
a. Invite your classmates to parties and functions
b. Volunteer at your school
c. Bless your class in a creative way
5. Social Ministry—bless those in your city who are marginalized and in poverty; engage with rescue missions and programs who bless the poor
6. Community Programs—volunteer to serve when your city has a marathon or fundraiser
7. Sports Leagues—if you or your children are active in sports, use these opportunities to be a part of a city league; engage with others players and parents and invite them to hang out at parties and such
8. Recreation/Entertainment—wherever you find yourself every day in the community, be intentional about knowing people where you regularly go; try to visit the same places regularly so you get to know the people
a. Coffee shop
b. Restaurants
c. Movie theatre
d. Gas station
e. Grocery store
9. Online Relationships
a. Facebook
b. Twitter
c. Myspace
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Thoughts on Preaching
Here are some random cool thoughts that came into my head while I was listening to someone preach today. These thoughts are not directly correlated or in contrast with the person speaking, but my mind wondered while I was listening. Also, this is not an attempt to create an exhaustive philosophy of preaching.
1. Preach in a way that inspires people with a vision of what their lives could look like if they follow Jesus. Paint a picture of following Jesus for a college student leveraging his life for what matters most in this world. Paint a picture of following Jesus for a dad leading his suburban household, a single mom of three kids, a business owner, a grandparent, a high school student and a stay at home mom. Let them see what could be. While there is an important element of rebuke and revealing idolatry in preaching, don't forget the monumental value of inspiring people with vision.
2. Preach in a way that exposes American Christianity to global Christianity. Talk about what Christians face in Turkey, Afghanistan, China and India. Talk about what it means to take up your cross and suffer in a Muslim country. Talk about what it means to be a true church community in communist China. Talk about what it means to support other believers in the bush of Central Africa. Talk about what it means to be a Christian businessperson in London. Let's expose the local church to the universal church. Hopefully, this will breed humility, encourage thankfulness, and crucify apathy for our audience.
That's all I got for today.
1. Preach in a way that inspires people with a vision of what their lives could look like if they follow Jesus. Paint a picture of following Jesus for a college student leveraging his life for what matters most in this world. Paint a picture of following Jesus for a dad leading his suburban household, a single mom of three kids, a business owner, a grandparent, a high school student and a stay at home mom. Let them see what could be. While there is an important element of rebuke and revealing idolatry in preaching, don't forget the monumental value of inspiring people with vision.
2. Preach in a way that exposes American Christianity to global Christianity. Talk about what Christians face in Turkey, Afghanistan, China and India. Talk about what it means to take up your cross and suffer in a Muslim country. Talk about what it means to be a true church community in communist China. Talk about what it means to support other believers in the bush of Central Africa. Talk about what it means to be a Christian businessperson in London. Let's expose the local church to the universal church. Hopefully, this will breed humility, encourage thankfulness, and crucify apathy for our audience.
That's all I got for today.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Mastering Scripture...or being Mastered by Scripture
Right now I'm journeying through the Gospels, studying the life of Jesus and his ministry. My beginning premise/idea was to master the gospels. I wanted to have an acute knowledge and understanding of every piece and detail of these books. I wanted to be well versed about Jesus' mission and his teachings. Ultimately, I wanted to do this so others would recognize my knowledge of Scripture. Doesn't this seem like a great idea? Not really. Immediately after I set out on this ambitious journey, I listened to D.A. Carson. I was humbled. It was a God thing. He said our goal for Scripture shouldn't be to master it, but rather to let it master us. Wow. I was struck down in my motivation for studying Scripture. Fortunately I was humbled and God desired to restructure my approach to his revelation. So, I am no longer trying to master the Gospels, but rather let them master me. I want them to proceed from my mind and penetrate the core of my will, soul & heart. I don't just want to know a bunch of stuff about the Gospels, but rather I want the Gospels to know me and own me at the core of who I am. This, I believe, is a much better approach.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Lunch with Ed Stetzer
A few weeks ago I was privileged to have lunch with Ed Stetzer, a pastor, church planter, facts guru, and President of Lifeway Research. He spoke at my church and stayed for a luncheon with several of us who are ascribing to be a part of church planting. Here are a few church planting thoughts I walked away with.
1. 3 People you will invest time: the Leaders, the Lost, & the Leaners. If you are not intentional about your time, the Leaners (those who require counseling and those who require high maintenance because they are not happy about issues in the church) will take up all your time. While they are valuable people, Jesus spent the majority of his time with leaders and the lost.
2. Your wife has veto power to terminate ministry. She will speak truth into you that no one else will.
3. Have a weekly mentor to help steer and hold you accountable.
4. Church planters are normally very gifted and we usually over maximize our capacity to serve.
5. 3 Warning gages in ministry to let you know something is out of balance: your wife, your kids, and your health.
6. Keep your identity on the gospel, not your success or failure as a church planter.
7. The preaching gift is immensely valuable for a church planter.
8. Hold the mission strongly, hold the methods loosely.
9. Go with 20, not 200, so you will be more missional.
10. A team and more $ does not guarrantee success and survivability.
11. Everything rises and falls on leadership.
12. The typical church plant stays below an attendence of 100 for the first four years.
13. Most church planters are bivocational, which is a healthy model. It is easier and better, concerning momentum, to stop being bivocational rather than having to start being bivocational after the church has started.
1. 3 People you will invest time: the Leaders, the Lost, & the Leaners. If you are not intentional about your time, the Leaners (those who require counseling and those who require high maintenance because they are not happy about issues in the church) will take up all your time. While they are valuable people, Jesus spent the majority of his time with leaders and the lost.
2. Your wife has veto power to terminate ministry. She will speak truth into you that no one else will.
3. Have a weekly mentor to help steer and hold you accountable.
4. Church planters are normally very gifted and we usually over maximize our capacity to serve.
5. 3 Warning gages in ministry to let you know something is out of balance: your wife, your kids, and your health.
6. Keep your identity on the gospel, not your success or failure as a church planter.
7. The preaching gift is immensely valuable for a church planter.
8. Hold the mission strongly, hold the methods loosely.
9. Go with 20, not 200, so you will be more missional.
10. A team and more $ does not guarrantee success and survivability.
11. Everything rises and falls on leadership.
12. The typical church plant stays below an attendence of 100 for the first four years.
13. Most church planters are bivocational, which is a healthy model. It is easier and better, concerning momentum, to stop being bivocational rather than having to start being bivocational after the church has started.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
3 Daily Meditations to Center on the Gospel
My pastor, who I reference often on this blog, has a routine he practices every morning before he leaves the house (you can find his blog here). I find it remarkably powerful for my own life. While there could be numerous other things on which to meditate each day, these are his main three:
1. "God, because I am in Christ, I know there is nothing I can do today that would make you love me any more than you do right now, and there's nothing I can do to make you love me any less."
*This mindset flows from God's unconditional love of His children. If we are in Christ, our position in God's family is fixed. I don't have to spend my day impressing God, hoping He will see value in me and allow me into heaven. I don't have to perform for Him, hoping He accepts me. He already does.
2. "God, your presence and approval is all I need to have joy today."
*I don't have to spend my day, trying to obtain stuff that will make me happy. No job, no person, and no possession can add to the joy we find in knowing God. Also, if I suffer today and loose something or someone, my joy will be sustained because it rests in God, not my stuff.
3. "God, everything the Gospel tells me about your intentions for my life is TRUE."
*I can rest in the fact that God is on my side. The Scriptures say He is for us, not against us. God desires more for my life than even I do. He wants what is best for me, way more than I do. I can rest assured that today, God's intentions for me are completely good.
So, today is not a Survivor episode. I don't have to show everyone why I should not be thrown off the island...or, I don't have to prove myself to God or anyone else. My acceptance is already established in Christ. I can live my day, knowing that my value as person is secure in Christ.
1. "God, because I am in Christ, I know there is nothing I can do today that would make you love me any more than you do right now, and there's nothing I can do to make you love me any less."
*This mindset flows from God's unconditional love of His children. If we are in Christ, our position in God's family is fixed. I don't have to spend my day impressing God, hoping He will see value in me and allow me into heaven. I don't have to perform for Him, hoping He accepts me. He already does.
2. "God, your presence and approval is all I need to have joy today."
*I don't have to spend my day, trying to obtain stuff that will make me happy. No job, no person, and no possession can add to the joy we find in knowing God. Also, if I suffer today and loose something or someone, my joy will be sustained because it rests in God, not my stuff.
3. "God, everything the Gospel tells me about your intentions for my life is TRUE."
*I can rest in the fact that God is on my side. The Scriptures say He is for us, not against us. God desires more for my life than even I do. He wants what is best for me, way more than I do. I can rest assured that today, God's intentions for me are completely good.
So, today is not a Survivor episode. I don't have to show everyone why I should not be thrown off the island...or, I don't have to prove myself to God or anyone else. My acceptance is already established in Christ. I can live my day, knowing that my value as person is secure in Christ.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
My glory...or transforming the city?
I have a strong desire and dream to transform a city or people group with the gospel of Jesus for God's glory. I want to start a movement in a city by planting churches who live out the transforming power of the gospel through radical love, generosity, humility and excellence in every domain of culture. However, sometimes I think this desire, at its core, may be more for my glory than God's. Here is a taunting question posed by my pastor, J.D. Greear. Do I still want my city to be transformed with the gospel, even if God chooses to use someone other than me to lead the process? Do I still want the entire city to reach transformation even if I don't receive any of the glory, even if I don't have a large church because of it, even if I don't get to speak at conferences because of it, even if I don't get to write books about it, even if God chooses to spark the transformation through my death? Wow! I hope my desire and dream is more about God than me. This is very humbling and challenging to my American mind. Hopefully, my life is ultimately more about God's kingdom than my kingdom.
What about you?
What about you?
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Defeater Beliefs
Most cultures, especially post-modern people in America have defeater beliefs about Christianity. According to Tim Keller, a defeater belief holds to a set of 'common-sense' beliefs that automatically make Christianity seem implausible to people. Some of these include: "Christianity cannot be true because it claims there is only one way to God, and everyone knows there cannot only be one way to God;" another, "Christianity cannot be true because it claims there is a good God, but everyone knows that a good God wouldn't allow the suffering we see in the world;" another, "Christianity cannot be true because the church has been responsible for so much injustice;" another, "Christianity cannot be true because it teaches that a loving God sends people to hell;" another, "Christianity cannot be true because we all know that science has disproved the Bible;" another, "Christianity cannot be true because we all know you can't really trust the Bible. It is archaic and cruel."
It is very important to know the defeater beliefs in your own culture. Why? Not so that you can make more converts, but rather because you help people understand there own worldview and the presuppositions within that worldview don't really hold water. By showing the worldview of Christianity is plausible, you will knock down the walls that keep people from hearing the gospel. Once a person sees the value of a Christian worldview, they are more open to listen to the message of Christianity.
In all this, we are not called to be angry and arrogant debaters, but rather, we are called to be filled with two things. One, we should be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. Two, we should be filled with the message of the gospel. However, these should be joined with a responsible knowledge of our culture. Everywhere we see the apostle Paul going in Scripture, he takes the gospel and the power of the Holy Spirit accompanied with an exegesis of the people. As he approaches different cultures and worldviews, he adapts his message to confront each defeater belief.
It is very important to know the defeater beliefs in your own culture. Why? Not so that you can make more converts, but rather because you help people understand there own worldview and the presuppositions within that worldview don't really hold water. By showing the worldview of Christianity is plausible, you will knock down the walls that keep people from hearing the gospel. Once a person sees the value of a Christian worldview, they are more open to listen to the message of Christianity.
In all this, we are not called to be angry and arrogant debaters, but rather, we are called to be filled with two things. One, we should be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. Two, we should be filled with the message of the gospel. However, these should be joined with a responsible knowledge of our culture. Everywhere we see the apostle Paul going in Scripture, he takes the gospel and the power of the Holy Spirit accompanied with an exegesis of the people. As he approaches different cultures and worldviews, he adapts his message to confront each defeater belief.
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