As a Pastor I see the weekly struggle our sluggish economy is feeding. As a Pastor I see the daily lives of Christians moving far away from living as a Christian Steward. I also work with Pastors and churches of all types across the country, and I see the same issues in every brand of church. It is tough in the trenches!
There are three key points in understanding today and tomorrow in church and ministry economics. These three points are currently at "critical mass" and little relief is seen - or is it?
Key #1
Stewardship is more than generosity. Stewardship is a state of being and a way of living. God says we are stewards. I Corinthians Chapter 4 drives this point home. We may run from it or try to re-define it, but God says HE has entrusted to us the Gospel and the resources. And in this trust we are to be found faithful! Until we return to a Biblical view of personal stewardship, our ministries and churches will be hurting to a point of debilitating proportion. As theological structures weaken the clear teaching of tithing and grace giving, we are presented with a huge dilemma - how will we fund that which God has called us to?
Key #2
Leadership is everything! I was slapped in the face with this a few years ago. I always give my tithes and offerings during the giving time in our services. I give as I ask others to also be obedient and give. But we had added a second service. God showed me that one of the services was missing out on seeing this modeled before them. So I now write two checks each week, and give in both. It was simple. It was no trouble. But it was noticed! Leaders are seen more than they are heard. Leaders must embrace the discipline of steward living and giving just as they do prayer and other dsciplines.
And leaders must also realize that teaching on stewardship is NOT the end of the world. I know that this is a scary subject for many Pastors. Why? So what if others have abused it. So what if others are not biblical. Lead by teaching the whole of the Bible and your people will be blessed by it. The promises of God toward faithful stewards are needed by every person in your services. Live it and teach it! As one church I know of does, celebrate the giving time in your services instead of hiding it. You and your people will find freedom and blessings!
Key#3
We are in trouble with our structures. By structures I mean buildings, denominational, and educational. Allow me to break these down:
Buildings - many have old and worn out buildings. Trying to address this deferred maintenance is a nightmare. Our churches and our educational institutions are all seeing this problem swell before their eyes. Courage and change will be required to maneuver this mountain. Add to this, many churches have built too much and too costly. Banks are no longer allowing this. But debt will have to be eliminated. Many secular approaches to debt reduction are leading churches down a dangerous path while ignoring the Biblical teachings and promoting an approach that will leave Pastors in trouble for the long haul. Pastors be careful! We must lay the groundwork for many years to come. Only strong Biblical Stewardship will accomplish this.
And remember these two important things:
1. You must maintain what you build!
2. Having an empty building 6 days a week does NOT bring honor to God! Build smart and flexible!
Structure - There is much dissatisfaction with the bloated structures that are found in our religious circles. People in the chairs and pews today are NOT sold on much of what denominations, conventions, and fellowships do. Networking is easier today than ever. This presents a major issue for our current structures. Add deferred maintenance issues, lack of interest, and poor stewardship together and you will see what I am talking about. It is NOT going to be pretty. But remember, change is more often good than bad. We need major change in our structures. Follow the money and you will see this clearly.
Educational - Maintenance alone puts our religious institutions in jeopardy. Add to that a poor economy, student loan debt from under grad schools, online and alternative sources of education, and one discovers that we are in the middle of a major shift. We cannot sustain the current model for long. Change is coming and change must come.
But all is NOT over.
It is a great time to return to Biblical Stewardship and cast a new more effective model of how we do what we do, and prepare for it. We have the ability to shape a younger generation that is living in the struggles of material sin from their elders. Their mindset is different and we must make sure we provide the resources and vision to capture and lead them to a Biblical model of steward living. It is possible because God is still God! It is doable because the Word of God says so.
What will we do?
Blogging for the purpose of Spiritual Growth and Edification
Showing posts with label Calvinist. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Calvinist. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Monday, June 24, 2013
Sharing Your Faith - Simple and Profound
Today's America reveals that Christians seldom share their faith in Jesus Christ outside of church circles. In fact, the truth is that often in the functions and activities of the church, little is shared by anyone except key figures. We hear of preaching to the nations but we hear little of sharing to the individuals we meet and interact with on a daily basis.
We have retreated as Christians into our safe cocoons. In ministry and life we only want the "Christian" brand and scene. We have Christian schools, sports teams, hangouts, etc.. I asked a question in our Bible Study group yesterday that gets to the heart of this - how many non believers do you know and interact with in your life? I remember growing up and attending public school that I was around many. In public school I had teachers who were Christians. They shared and cared and taught. Yes there were a few that were not believers. Yet there was a respect present. During pewee football, we would load the guys up after practice and go to our church Revival meetings. Most of the team was happy to go.
Today, we discover the shelter approach being implemented by parents. We talk about protecting. We emphasis fear from evil influences. We have withdrawn from the public and thus, rarely except within family do we find anyone that we have close relationships with that provide opportunity for sharing the Gospel. We talk about events at church that we hope will attract people. But we do not share Jesus with those we do not want to be involved in our lives. One could rightly say that we have adopted a "cult like" attitude towards our faith and lives. But not totally! For in our version, we are NOT as faithful to our beliefs and to God as the cults are to theirs. We miss worship and Bible Study for any reason. We put things before God that cult members would never put before their beliefs.
We have forgotten the role that God placed us in here on earth - we are missionaries. We have a calling to reach people! Yes, we have a calling to preach to the nations also. But our simple beginning starts with GO and share Jesus with all people! We can send money for special projects and do offerings to support missionaries serving around the world but we are to also BE missionaries. We are to care that people who die without Jesus go to Hell. it should disturb us that our lack of sharing has led to such an increase in people who have not seen a Bible nor have heard that Jesus died for them. Why is there no remorse and sadness?
We are quick to tell people how to live and yet we are selective in whom we desire to attend church with. It is easier for us to promote our soapboxes and feel good projects than it is to reach a world that needs Jesus. Lives all around are falling apart. People are experiencing things that many of us have never had to deal with. Children are growing up in homes where the normal roles of parents are corrupted and the lack of love and interest from parents to their children screams from every direction. And we as Christians just sit in our cocoons safe and feeling good. We point out the evil. We are good at that. We attack politicians as if they really could or would do anything that could fix our issues. But we keep Jesus to ourselves. As Christians we only seek to practice the parts of the Bible that we like. We are as selective with our faith as we are with sharing Jesus. We create man made systems of theology that excuse our sharing and we seek churches that only emphasis the certain things we like to attend.
Sharing our faith is simple! The only requirement needed is obedience to God. He promises that if we will be faithful, He will save! The Gospel is profound! The fact that someone loves us - period! The fact that someone died for us! The fact that we can avoid Hell! The fact that God has given us a guide book that fits our lives no matter where we come from and answers our most difficult questions! The fact that anyone can receive Jesus! Profound may be to small of a word! The Gospel goes beyond our understanding. The Gospel is freeing! The Gospel is life giving! The Gospel is AWESOME!
So can we answer why do we not share it and live it?
We have retreated as Christians into our safe cocoons. In ministry and life we only want the "Christian" brand and scene. We have Christian schools, sports teams, hangouts, etc.. I asked a question in our Bible Study group yesterday that gets to the heart of this - how many non believers do you know and interact with in your life? I remember growing up and attending public school that I was around many. In public school I had teachers who were Christians. They shared and cared and taught. Yes there were a few that were not believers. Yet there was a respect present. During pewee football, we would load the guys up after practice and go to our church Revival meetings. Most of the team was happy to go.
Today, we discover the shelter approach being implemented by parents. We talk about protecting. We emphasis fear from evil influences. We have withdrawn from the public and thus, rarely except within family do we find anyone that we have close relationships with that provide opportunity for sharing the Gospel. We talk about events at church that we hope will attract people. But we do not share Jesus with those we do not want to be involved in our lives. One could rightly say that we have adopted a "cult like" attitude towards our faith and lives. But not totally! For in our version, we are NOT as faithful to our beliefs and to God as the cults are to theirs. We miss worship and Bible Study for any reason. We put things before God that cult members would never put before their beliefs.
We have forgotten the role that God placed us in here on earth - we are missionaries. We have a calling to reach people! Yes, we have a calling to preach to the nations also. But our simple beginning starts with GO and share Jesus with all people! We can send money for special projects and do offerings to support missionaries serving around the world but we are to also BE missionaries. We are to care that people who die without Jesus go to Hell. it should disturb us that our lack of sharing has led to such an increase in people who have not seen a Bible nor have heard that Jesus died for them. Why is there no remorse and sadness?
We are quick to tell people how to live and yet we are selective in whom we desire to attend church with. It is easier for us to promote our soapboxes and feel good projects than it is to reach a world that needs Jesus. Lives all around are falling apart. People are experiencing things that many of us have never had to deal with. Children are growing up in homes where the normal roles of parents are corrupted and the lack of love and interest from parents to their children screams from every direction. And we as Christians just sit in our cocoons safe and feeling good. We point out the evil. We are good at that. We attack politicians as if they really could or would do anything that could fix our issues. But we keep Jesus to ourselves. As Christians we only seek to practice the parts of the Bible that we like. We are as selective with our faith as we are with sharing Jesus. We create man made systems of theology that excuse our sharing and we seek churches that only emphasis the certain things we like to attend.
Sharing our faith is simple! The only requirement needed is obedience to God. He promises that if we will be faithful, He will save! The Gospel is profound! The fact that someone loves us - period! The fact that someone died for us! The fact that we can avoid Hell! The fact that God has given us a guide book that fits our lives no matter where we come from and answers our most difficult questions! The fact that anyone can receive Jesus! Profound may be to small of a word! The Gospel goes beyond our understanding. The Gospel is freeing! The Gospel is life giving! The Gospel is AWESOME!
So can we answer why do we not share it and live it?
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
The Great American Christian Question
The history of America is without honest question. This nation was founded on Biblical principles. From those principles God blessed and America grew beyond anyone's dreams. The power of such growth resulted in an incredible world protector for liberty and religious freedom. That was then!
What about now!
Christians in America need to answer this question quickly. We must also pray and be determined to get the right answer. For the right answer is our path from now forward. We will find the right answer by looking at our past failures. Yes, our past failures highlight the answer needed today.
We begin by admitting that we as American Christians have failed to understand that our primary purpose was and is to lead people to Jesus Christ. Without Jesus, people are simply sinful people with NO hope for changing. We have fought hard the culture war. We have lost. We lost because we were not focused on leading people to the one true God who could and will save them through Jesus Christ. Our biggest failure as American Christians is found in that we did not reach the multitudes of people that God allowed to come to America. We had it all set up to reach world! We failed. Without a changed heart, people will not adopt an ideology that is Christian based. Our worldview will not make sense to them at all! We tried via many methods while avoiding the one and only method that works - leading people to Jesus! We begin to find our answer when we admit to this failure!
The absence of the power of the Holy Spirit evidenced in our lives is also a big failure! American Christians learned to play at church. We learned that real well. We developed many of our systems and programs in our churches by copying the world. The greatest one being Sunday School. We copied the American education system. We set up directors, had roll books, and some churches even use to ring the bell! We established programs, and I do mean many programs. We built our church schedules around the work culture of the 50's and 60's and we grew children's ministries/missions ministries for children right out of boy/girl scouts. The club mentality anchored our approach. For adults the same was true. In all of this, the programs became the focus in place of the power of the Holy Spirit living in and working through our lives. We taught for education sake. We learned many facts but we failed to experience the power God via the Holy Spirit in our lives. We were so focused on knowing about that we never realized we were not living in. Again, we failed.
This led to neglect of some key Biblical disciplines. In particular, fasting! There are those few types of churches that practice this and have for years. But many American Christians in our older age groups never were taught or led to develop fasting in their lives. Without fasting there can be no power of the Holy Spirit. Our lives were simply being lived through a mental ideology. An ideology that requires the power of the Holy Spirit.
So caught up in our programs and structure we embraced a salesman approach to sharing the gospel. We tweaked our services in some cases and in others demanded that we NOT change a thing. Time was always our focus and comfort and familiarity followed in our priorities. We began trying to attract people instead of sharing Jesus by living in Him. It worked for a while - maybe, maybe not. But soon we could not do enough to up what had already been done. People caught on to our sales pitch and began tuning us out. Again we failed.
People without Jesus began to see that those who professed to have him were not that much different. In fact, often times Christians were worse. We were mean, lacked compassion, ugly, holier than thou, and were more focused on we wanted and bragging about what we claimed to have, that people failed to see in us a compassion for them. We were anything but passionate for people. Love was not found for anyone, just for those we liked. And the slide continued. Only now, other religions and ideologies were being embraced. And we could go on and on...!
So what is the answer?
1. Know our purpose is to live obedient to the command of our Lord to lead people to Jesus!
2. Know that we must fucus on living in the power of the Holy Spirit daily! Without this power lives will not be changed.
3. Know that following Biblical disciplines must become a priority. Seek to learn these and apply them daily. The power of the Holy Spirit depends upon it.
4. Know that we love and thus show this love of people daily! People come in all shapes and backgrounds. We are to love them! Period!
We begin with these four! Until these four are evident, nothing else will matter! It is only through these four that Revival will come! And our greatest need right now is not political nor ideological.
What about now!
Christians in America need to answer this question quickly. We must also pray and be determined to get the right answer. For the right answer is our path from now forward. We will find the right answer by looking at our past failures. Yes, our past failures highlight the answer needed today.
We begin by admitting that we as American Christians have failed to understand that our primary purpose was and is to lead people to Jesus Christ. Without Jesus, people are simply sinful people with NO hope for changing. We have fought hard the culture war. We have lost. We lost because we were not focused on leading people to the one true God who could and will save them through Jesus Christ. Our biggest failure as American Christians is found in that we did not reach the multitudes of people that God allowed to come to America. We had it all set up to reach world! We failed. Without a changed heart, people will not adopt an ideology that is Christian based. Our worldview will not make sense to them at all! We tried via many methods while avoiding the one and only method that works - leading people to Jesus! We begin to find our answer when we admit to this failure!
The absence of the power of the Holy Spirit evidenced in our lives is also a big failure! American Christians learned to play at church. We learned that real well. We developed many of our systems and programs in our churches by copying the world. The greatest one being Sunday School. We copied the American education system. We set up directors, had roll books, and some churches even use to ring the bell! We established programs, and I do mean many programs. We built our church schedules around the work culture of the 50's and 60's and we grew children's ministries/missions ministries for children right out of boy/girl scouts. The club mentality anchored our approach. For adults the same was true. In all of this, the programs became the focus in place of the power of the Holy Spirit living in and working through our lives. We taught for education sake. We learned many facts but we failed to experience the power God via the Holy Spirit in our lives. We were so focused on knowing about that we never realized we were not living in. Again, we failed.
This led to neglect of some key Biblical disciplines. In particular, fasting! There are those few types of churches that practice this and have for years. But many American Christians in our older age groups never were taught or led to develop fasting in their lives. Without fasting there can be no power of the Holy Spirit. Our lives were simply being lived through a mental ideology. An ideology that requires the power of the Holy Spirit.
So caught up in our programs and structure we embraced a salesman approach to sharing the gospel. We tweaked our services in some cases and in others demanded that we NOT change a thing. Time was always our focus and comfort and familiarity followed in our priorities. We began trying to attract people instead of sharing Jesus by living in Him. It worked for a while - maybe, maybe not. But soon we could not do enough to up what had already been done. People caught on to our sales pitch and began tuning us out. Again we failed.
People without Jesus began to see that those who professed to have him were not that much different. In fact, often times Christians were worse. We were mean, lacked compassion, ugly, holier than thou, and were more focused on we wanted and bragging about what we claimed to have, that people failed to see in us a compassion for them. We were anything but passionate for people. Love was not found for anyone, just for those we liked. And the slide continued. Only now, other religions and ideologies were being embraced. And we could go on and on...!
So what is the answer?
1. Know our purpose is to live obedient to the command of our Lord to lead people to Jesus!
2. Know that we must fucus on living in the power of the Holy Spirit daily! Without this power lives will not be changed.
3. Know that following Biblical disciplines must become a priority. Seek to learn these and apply them daily. The power of the Holy Spirit depends upon it.
4. Know that we love and thus show this love of people daily! People come in all shapes and backgrounds. We are to love them! Period!
We begin with these four! Until these four are evident, nothing else will matter! It is only through these four that Revival will come! And our greatest need right now is not political nor ideological.
Our greatest need is REVIVAL!
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Speaking the TRUTH in todays America (Series)
Part 1
Over the past week I have made clear my perception of today's America - it is not pretty. In noting this, the simple fact that the change we are seeing did not occur overnight was also front and center. So now we must ask the question as Christians trying to reach people in this new era of "neo-anything can be truth" culture, HOW?
American Christians have perfected the speech approach to teaching. Even in our social media use can be found the clear and often blunt ugly use of this method in telling people what is wrong with their ideology and where they will go because of it. We make our points well yet we are failing to impress or influence even a few. It is time we seek to understand the needed approach required if we are to really make a difference today.
And for many Christians, this is going to be a tough road to travel!
Our learning begins with some simple facts. People without Jesus, do not have a foundation that we can build upon. People without Jesus, need Jesus first! Never should we compromise the truth with anyone. But understanding that only in a relationship with Jesus is the foundation upon which truth is built can we expect any glimmer of accomplishing lasting life change. This is Biblical truth. Hard to realize that we Christians must first accept a truth before we expect others to do the same. But this is a must. The journey begins with this hurdle at the starting line.
Many American churches are facilitating this hurdle by abandoning Evangelistic outreach endeavors. We talk much about reaching the nations. Preaching to the nations is the new modern day battle cry! A simple analysis of our current trends in methods and thoughts on evangelism reveal that we are doing little to reach individual people regardless of the intent of the battle cry. The popular growth of Reformed Theology and the New Calvinism of our day are not helping either. The more this spreads the fewer people that will be reached. Sharing Jesus is the beginning. It is more than preaching/teaching. Sharing Jesus is more than telling someone to turn or burn. Sharing Jesus is sharing Jesus story and what He did for all of us. It is making it clear that Jesus offers a free gift called salvation to all who will receive. The gift is offered, but we each must chose to accept or reject.
Rom 6:23
Rom 5:8
8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
(NKJ)
Over the past week I have made clear my perception of today's America - it is not pretty. In noting this, the simple fact that the change we are seeing did not occur overnight was also front and center. So now we must ask the question as Christians trying to reach people in this new era of "neo-anything can be truth" culture, HOW?
American Christians have perfected the speech approach to teaching. Even in our social media use can be found the clear and often blunt ugly use of this method in telling people what is wrong with their ideology and where they will go because of it. We make our points well yet we are failing to impress or influence even a few. It is time we seek to understand the needed approach required if we are to really make a difference today.
And for many Christians, this is going to be a tough road to travel!
Our learning begins with some simple facts. People without Jesus, do not have a foundation that we can build upon. People without Jesus, need Jesus first! Never should we compromise the truth with anyone. But understanding that only in a relationship with Jesus is the foundation upon which truth is built can we expect any glimmer of accomplishing lasting life change. This is Biblical truth. Hard to realize that we Christians must first accept a truth before we expect others to do the same. But this is a must. The journey begins with this hurdle at the starting line.
Many American churches are facilitating this hurdle by abandoning Evangelistic outreach endeavors. We talk much about reaching the nations. Preaching to the nations is the new modern day battle cry! A simple analysis of our current trends in methods and thoughts on evangelism reveal that we are doing little to reach individual people regardless of the intent of the battle cry. The popular growth of Reformed Theology and the New Calvinism of our day are not helping either. The more this spreads the fewer people that will be reached. Sharing Jesus is the beginning. It is more than preaching/teaching. Sharing Jesus is more than telling someone to turn or burn. Sharing Jesus is sharing Jesus story and what He did for all of us. It is making it clear that Jesus offers a free gift called salvation to all who will receive. The gift is offered, but we each must chose to accept or reject.
Rom 6:23
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
(NKJ)
(NKJ)
Rom 5:8
8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
(NKJ)
Sharing truth requires each of us who know Christ to begin sharing His truth. It is not turn or burn. It is begging and pleading with people to see what God did for them in His Son Jesus. It is sharing the love of God for all people regardless of where they have been or what they have done! It is leaving the judging to God while living as one changed so as not to cause anyone to stumble so that the message of Gods love in Christ, can be seen and thus received.
This is the starting point! No moral or political change is possible of lasting value without Jesus first!
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Dont Ask, Trust Us! We are in trouble!
In the convention "vetting" of the Presidential pick by the Search Team of MWBTS we have an email sent out in response to a question asking the Theological leanings of the proposed candidate. The response simply says trust us, we got this, wait until the man is voted on to learn his Theology. Was it not the Democrats in congress who said when asked what was in the health care bill to trust us, let us vote it in and then we will see what we actually have in the bill? Just a thought!
The heart of my concern over such a response goes to the heart of the SBC - Cooperative Program giving. We are hearing that giving is down due to the economy. What we are not hearing is that churches are lowering their percentages due to SBC power plays as the email mentioned above reveals. The people in the pews are losing faith in the SBC leaders at an alarming rate.
Why?
Little occurs from the SBC anymore that really meets the needs of local churches. The only clear voice I hear week in and out is "send more money to the IMB and forget the rest!" This voice is from the pews of the our churches. Even retired missionaries are sounding this call at a shocking level. Could it be that our institutions have lost the trust and faith of the people in the pew?
When one sits back and simply lists the events, the people placed into lead roles, the sealing of documents, the don't ask - trust us approach, one sees why few care anymore. And if someone raises a question, that person is labeled as a trouble maker and quickly attacked in an attempt to silence their voice. Last time I checked the above did not fit the definition of accountability.
No doubt this type of maneuvering has been around for some time. It is almost human nature when one looks at large groups that must somehow find a way to work together. Yet no excuse should be allowed to triumph such a conduct. The people in the pew are tired of the junk. The people in the pew are fed up with their churches being forced into battles over theology they do not hold to. The people in the pew will respond to missions and ministry. They will reject political plays every time.
It might be a more prudent decision for the search team to answer the questions now, not later. Dr. Allen and his family deserve better than this. We live in the age of instant information and communication. I thought our leaders knew this. To role this selection out in a manner that does not reinforce the selection is institutional abuse at its finest. If the search team truly believes this is their man, then they should be out front promoting and highlighting why they believe this. We have seen and heard little. Sad!
Instead, we are told NO ANSWERS, TRUST US.
I have one question: Please tell me how we can trust when you handle the process in this manner.
I think more than MWBTS is at stake in this decision. We are seeing in a vivid way why CP giving is dropping. The real clue is not in the total dollars but rather in the percentage that a church gives. The percentage is the key issue and it is speaking loud and clear!
Will someone wake up and realize the damage being done? When only Pastors care about this stuff the problem is already bigger than we realize!
The heart of my concern over such a response goes to the heart of the SBC - Cooperative Program giving. We are hearing that giving is down due to the economy. What we are not hearing is that churches are lowering their percentages due to SBC power plays as the email mentioned above reveals. The people in the pews are losing faith in the SBC leaders at an alarming rate.
Why?
Little occurs from the SBC anymore that really meets the needs of local churches. The only clear voice I hear week in and out is "send more money to the IMB and forget the rest!" This voice is from the pews of the our churches. Even retired missionaries are sounding this call at a shocking level. Could it be that our institutions have lost the trust and faith of the people in the pew?
When one sits back and simply lists the events, the people placed into lead roles, the sealing of documents, the don't ask - trust us approach, one sees why few care anymore. And if someone raises a question, that person is labeled as a trouble maker and quickly attacked in an attempt to silence their voice. Last time I checked the above did not fit the definition of accountability.
No doubt this type of maneuvering has been around for some time. It is almost human nature when one looks at large groups that must somehow find a way to work together. Yet no excuse should be allowed to triumph such a conduct. The people in the pew are tired of the junk. The people in the pew are fed up with their churches being forced into battles over theology they do not hold to. The people in the pew will respond to missions and ministry. They will reject political plays every time.
It might be a more prudent decision for the search team to answer the questions now, not later. Dr. Allen and his family deserve better than this. We live in the age of instant information and communication. I thought our leaders knew this. To role this selection out in a manner that does not reinforce the selection is institutional abuse at its finest. If the search team truly believes this is their man, then they should be out front promoting and highlighting why they believe this. We have seen and heard little. Sad!
Instead, we are told NO ANSWERS, TRUST US.
I have one question: Please tell me how we can trust when you handle the process in this manner.
I think more than MWBTS is at stake in this decision. We are seeing in a vivid way why CP giving is dropping. The real clue is not in the total dollars but rather in the percentage that a church gives. The percentage is the key issue and it is speaking loud and clear!
Will someone wake up and realize the damage being done? When only Pastors care about this stuff the problem is already bigger than we realize!
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Missing from the Calvinism Advisory Team
This post is more about an observation than it is a gripe. Yes I am going to highlight something I think is missing in the formation of the Advisory Team but not as a fuss to or about Dr. Page. Rather the reality of what I see missing is due to the current climate in SBC life and Evangelical churches as a whole.
The team that will study the issue of how Traditionalists and Calvinists will move forward together in the SBC may be more challenging than the Name Change or even the GCR report. The list presented in Baptist Press shows some balance. There are people representing Educators, Entity Heads, Pastors, Ethnic groups, and Denominational people. There are mid size church Pastors and Large church Pastors. Southern Seminary is covered with the largest group (those with close ties to Southern) and representatives from New Orleans and Southwestern. We have Northern representation and even the East Coast (and Beltway at that).
But who do we NOT have?
As I looked at the list and discussed the breakdown on a call last night while driving, something jumped out at me and screamed loud and clear. In the whole of the debate/discussion/elephant one group has been missing all along. This group finds itself on the front lines of this issue right along with the turmoil in churches. For over ten plus years now this group has been being left out of the Convention conversation on most issues simply because they are being left out of most church life.
In Ephesians we find this group given a clear Biblical role and place in New Testament churches. Read the following verses:
The team that will study the issue of how Traditionalists and Calvinists will move forward together in the SBC may be more challenging than the Name Change or even the GCR report. The list presented in Baptist Press shows some balance. There are people representing Educators, Entity Heads, Pastors, Ethnic groups, and Denominational people. There are mid size church Pastors and Large church Pastors. Southern Seminary is covered with the largest group (those with close ties to Southern) and representatives from New Orleans and Southwestern. We have Northern representation and even the East Coast (and Beltway at that).
But who do we NOT have?
As I looked at the list and discussed the breakdown on a call last night while driving, something jumped out at me and screamed loud and clear. In the whole of the debate/discussion/elephant one group has been missing all along. This group finds itself on the front lines of this issue right along with the turmoil in churches. For over ten plus years now this group has been being left out of the Convention conversation on most issues simply because they are being left out of most church life.
In Ephesians we find this group given a clear Biblical role and place in New Testament churches. Read the following verses:
Eph 4:11-16
11 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers,
12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ,
13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;
14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting,
15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head-- Christ--
16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
(NKJ)
11 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers,
12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ,
13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;
14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting,
15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head-- Christ--
16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
(NKJ)
So who is missing?
Where is the voice of the Evangelists?
I think this missing voice speaks volumes to where we are today more than we may be willing to admit.
Monday, August 13, 2012
Is "to the Nations" really missions?
There I was last week on a lake and in a boat listening to my old (according to my two sons) music and driving the family crazy with it while doing some reflection of ministry and missions. You see, I have this problem of not being able to shut the mind off just because I am on vacation. I like to use that time to sfocus on key thoughts etc.. And this year it was missions and ministry.
In particular, what are we really doing and can we do more.
In this thought process the whole terminology thing came kept coming up. Having been in SBC churches all of my life, missions strategy is all too familiar. GO, REACH, and now The Nations are terms used to motivate and remind us that there is something BIG we are suppose to be doing. But lets really look at the current lingo.
Reach the nations!
What does that mean?
Do we know what it really means?
Is the meaning the same from one person to the next?
Tough questions that produce answers describing a major issue in our mission efforts. Is it possible that the term we are currently hearing over and over again is ushering in an actual opposite effect of little real missions?
Now grant it that I may be accused of being picky or crazy. But think with me for just a moment.
What does it mean? Are we to reach whole countries? Sure! But how? If we do a humanitarian effort in a country, have we taken the Gospel to the Nations? If we hold a few worship services in this country, does that fulfill the mandate?
What does it really mean? Have we been told by those who coined the phrase? Are we told by those who use it in sermons and lectures on missions?
When I hear the term, I think I know what it means but I am not sure. Where is this term defined?
A clear missions strategy must have a clear common understanding. Every Pastor and staff member must be in sync with every entity leader in knowing what the term means. But then it dawned on me, we live in a time when taking up an offering for xyz material need in some country is praised as reaching the nations. Is it?
But today, I will allow for contemplation on this initial post about this subject while praising the members of our church for raising over $3,500 with just two weeks notice to send my traditional worship leader to India for two weeks to train Pastors in evangelism and the teaching of the Word of God so they can reach their home country residents.
We will continue this thought later this week...
In particular, what are we really doing and can we do more.
In this thought process the whole terminology thing came kept coming up. Having been in SBC churches all of my life, missions strategy is all too familiar. GO, REACH, and now The Nations are terms used to motivate and remind us that there is something BIG we are suppose to be doing. But lets really look at the current lingo.
Reach the nations!
What does that mean?
Do we know what it really means?
Is the meaning the same from one person to the next?
Tough questions that produce answers describing a major issue in our mission efforts. Is it possible that the term we are currently hearing over and over again is ushering in an actual opposite effect of little real missions?
Now grant it that I may be accused of being picky or crazy. But think with me for just a moment.
What does it mean? Are we to reach whole countries? Sure! But how? If we do a humanitarian effort in a country, have we taken the Gospel to the Nations? If we hold a few worship services in this country, does that fulfill the mandate?
What does it really mean? Have we been told by those who coined the phrase? Are we told by those who use it in sermons and lectures on missions?
When I hear the term, I think I know what it means but I am not sure. Where is this term defined?
A clear missions strategy must have a clear common understanding. Every Pastor and staff member must be in sync with every entity leader in knowing what the term means. But then it dawned on me, we live in a time when taking up an offering for xyz material need in some country is praised as reaching the nations. Is it?
But today, I will allow for contemplation on this initial post about this subject while praising the members of our church for raising over $3,500 with just two weeks notice to send my traditional worship leader to India for two weeks to train Pastors in evangelism and the teaching of the Word of God so they can reach their home country residents.
We will continue this thought later this week...
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Ask, Don't Ask, Accept, Don't Accept, Repent or ?
If the title caught your attention then it will definitely confuse you as it is applied to varying ideas of how one enters into salvation with Jesus. The increase in articles, books, and sermons covering the whole idea (good and bad) about how a person actually enters into a relationship with Jesus Christ can give one a migraine headache of epic size.
Does a person need to ask Jesus into their life and accept Him as Lord?
There is a big difference between the yes answer and the no answer. Those who hold to the traditional view of salvation would answer yes. They would acknowledge that a person must make the decision to turn from their sin (repent) and accept Jesus through faith. The traditionalist people have believed this for years. You will find this belief in most Evangelical churches and denominations/Associations/Conventions.
I agree with this understanding of the Biblical teaching about salvation and hold that this is the Gospel. I believe that God gives every person the opportunity to make the above choice/decision. He knows that many will not. He knows that many will. My key reason for being convinced in my spirit and mind comes straight from the Word of God.
Does a person need to ask Jesus into their life and accept Him as Lord?
There is a big difference between the yes answer and the no answer. Those who hold to the traditional view of salvation would answer yes. They would acknowledge that a person must make the decision to turn from their sin (repent) and accept Jesus through faith. The traditionalist people have believed this for years. You will find this belief in most Evangelical churches and denominations/Associations/Conventions.
I agree with this understanding of the Biblical teaching about salvation and hold that this is the Gospel. I believe that God gives every person the opportunity to make the above choice/decision. He knows that many will not. He knows that many will. My key reason for being convinced in my spirit and mind comes straight from the Word of God.
Notice how clearly salvation is explained in the "how" with the words of Paul in writing to Corinth:
2 Cor 7:10
10 For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.
(NKJ)
Phil 2:12-13
12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;
13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
(NKJ)
2 Cor 7:10
10 For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.
(NKJ)
In this passage, Paul is discussing his letter written to them and how it affected them. He chooses to use the analogy of their sorrow to highlight with the gift of salvation just how a person realizes they are a sinner against God, sees they cannot fix the effect of their sin, and through this Godly sorrow are brought into salvation via the act of repentance. God's Holy Spirit calls, teaches, and convicts. Each person must make a choice as to what they will do in response to God and His work offered as a gift.
This process should be taken very seriously. In fact, the Bible is clear on this when when Paul writes to the people at Philipi and says:
Phil 2:12-13
12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;
13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
(NKJ)
Clearly Paul acknowledges in this verse that salvation is God's gift. It is God who works in the calling, conviction, and giving the ability to respond. Yet Paul also acknowledges that each person must "work out" or make sure they have made the choice and live out the reality of that choice. One does not realize that they are saved. One is not born as a chosen one while others are born damned for Hell. One must respond to the work of God and then allow God to work. Salvation is all of and about the work of God in and through Jesus. Yet God does not force Himself on anyone. It is beyond religion and systems of thoughts. It requires faith in the Grace of God. It requires one to repent. It is more than just a simple mental decision.
I am the first to admit that too many people in all walks of Christianity make salvation more about saying yes to heaven and no to hell. They want to see their children and grandchildren baptized. I have seen in over 23 years of ministry that repentance can be somewhat downplayed - which I think is totally wrong. Without repentance, one cannot be saved. Salvation is serious. Salvation is the most important thing in life! We cannot get this wrong! Salvation does not precede repentance. It is impossible with the above verse out of 2 Corinthians.
And I do not think it is lowering or weakening the sovereignty of God to say and believe what I have written for the process is clearly described in God's Word.
Have you accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior of your life? Did you repent and acknowledge that you needed the death of Christ as payment for your sins?
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Learned from my perspective and concerns w/New Calvinism!
Yesterday I wrote a post that was an attempt to get dialogue started on what it is that Calvinists and New Calvinists believe. The result was much to my surprise. The folks over at sbctoday.com carried the post and the comments can be viewed their also. Add to the comments the phone calls of yesterday and today and boy did I learn a great deal. I just finished a phone call with someone who, along with family, have come out of a Calvinist takeover church. The story is the same and the 9Marks path of reforming a church is being followed to the letter (as with many, it hit major resistance and left a church totally splintered). Here is more of what I learned from this part of the journey:
1. The old form of Calvinism is still alive and well and as friendly and cooperative as ever. I knew it was but was not seeing it much on the internet. The Soteriology of the old form balances with the Traditional Statement where it counts the most.
2. The Founders version grouped with younger learning theologs are not the mainstream but they sure think they are! I pray these guys learn quickly that God has not taught them so that can call out other Pastors based on their knowledge to enlighten them and clean up other churches. They will one day soon learn that ministry; real ministry, is more than arguing some point and claiming superiority.
3. The limit of blogging and the influence there of is growing weaker by the day. I think I am thankful for this. Social media may not be as strong as we think in ministry matters other than informing our people of events and ministry needs etc. We need to acknowledge this and NOT over react.
4. You can burn an afternoon quickly if one is not careful. And when the burn is complete, thre is not much to show for it.
5. I believe there is a way for cooperation in the SBC with the mainstream older Calvinists as there has been for years. They are not fully aware of the New Calvinists and refute their assertions at every turn. This is encouraging. I am not sure how to cooperate with the New Calvinists. I keep thinking that the way is out there, but I have yet to see it.
6. New Calvinism would make a great study of pollsters and PhD students.
7. How quickly we forget or neglect some of the simple admonitions in scripture when we want to prove our point or set the world straight!
8. Bearing False Witness is still a sin. New Calvinists might need remedial training.
9. I am more convinced than ever that the Calvinists need a mega meeting of their own to figure out how they will deal with this new breed. Maybe we have approached this wrong. The old Calvinists need to listen the New Calvinists and seek to learn what makes them tick. From that learning it may be possible for them to lead them in today's ministry and churches.
10. If you do not live within the influence of certain geographic areas, you might not be aware of New Calvinism at all.
11. I sure do miss Dr. Adrian Rogers. I wonder if he would have blogged and tweeted?
12. Leaders in the SBC have their hands full! Dr. Page and his task force/committee will need our prayers.
13. We need statesmen in a bad way these days!
14. There sure seems to be a problem with taking people at their word!
15. The elephant in the room is whether or not Founders and New Calvinists will back off their goal of transforming the SBC? This is the biggie! I cannot get an answer from anyone on this one. Why is that?
And there is much more!
1. The old form of Calvinism is still alive and well and as friendly and cooperative as ever. I knew it was but was not seeing it much on the internet. The Soteriology of the old form balances with the Traditional Statement where it counts the most.
2. The Founders version grouped with younger learning theologs are not the mainstream but they sure think they are! I pray these guys learn quickly that God has not taught them so that can call out other Pastors based on their knowledge to enlighten them and clean up other churches. They will one day soon learn that ministry; real ministry, is more than arguing some point and claiming superiority.
3. The limit of blogging and the influence there of is growing weaker by the day. I think I am thankful for this. Social media may not be as strong as we think in ministry matters other than informing our people of events and ministry needs etc. We need to acknowledge this and NOT over react.
4. You can burn an afternoon quickly if one is not careful. And when the burn is complete, thre is not much to show for it.
5. I believe there is a way for cooperation in the SBC with the mainstream older Calvinists as there has been for years. They are not fully aware of the New Calvinists and refute their assertions at every turn. This is encouraging. I am not sure how to cooperate with the New Calvinists. I keep thinking that the way is out there, but I have yet to see it.
6. New Calvinism would make a great study of pollsters and PhD students.
7. How quickly we forget or neglect some of the simple admonitions in scripture when we want to prove our point or set the world straight!
8. Bearing False Witness is still a sin. New Calvinists might need remedial training.
9. I am more convinced than ever that the Calvinists need a mega meeting of their own to figure out how they will deal with this new breed. Maybe we have approached this wrong. The old Calvinists need to listen the New Calvinists and seek to learn what makes them tick. From that learning it may be possible for them to lead them in today's ministry and churches.
10. If you do not live within the influence of certain geographic areas, you might not be aware of New Calvinism at all.
11. I sure do miss Dr. Adrian Rogers. I wonder if he would have blogged and tweeted?
12. Leaders in the SBC have their hands full! Dr. Page and his task force/committee will need our prayers.
13. We need statesmen in a bad way these days!
14. There sure seems to be a problem with taking people at their word!
15. The elephant in the room is whether or not Founders and New Calvinists will back off their goal of transforming the SBC? This is the biggie! I cannot get an answer from anyone on this one. Why is that?
And there is much more!
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
My perspective on why todays Calvinism is a concern.
Comments for this post will be allowed @ sbctoday.com as they plan on posting it on their site with my permission.
I have debated writing this post for some time. The reality that anything written can be misconstrued is enough by itself to cause hesitation. The last thing I want to do is leave the wrong impression with anyone. I love Calvinists and I love Traditionalists. I work with both and even some in other groups. So I write the following to voice concerns that I am seeing and hearing. I write to add clarification as to why I signed the traditional statement. I write to reveal why this issue is a growing problem. And since I write best by making lists, I will list out my concerns while making it clear that NO priority is given other than the first one on the list.The list will include specifics and generic issues tied to people and promotion. Again, these are my concerns and are questions that I have yet to get consistent answers from (new)Calvinists of today. The older SBC Calvinists that I have known and respected were totally different.
My Concerns:
1. Ask 10 different Calvinists what they believe must occur for a person to be saved and you will get at least 5 different answers.
2. Do Calvinists really believe that John 3:16 shows that only the elect are the ones God loves.
3. Do Calvinists believe that some people are born with NO hope of salvation?
4. At what point do Calvinist believe salvation occurs?
5. How can Calvinists call Traditionalists divisive when it is the Calvinists that have web sites and blogs that specifically state their desire to change the SBC and beyond?
Here is an example from the Founders blog (knowing their website clearly states their desire to change the SBC): "It is indisputable that we are in the midst of a reformation and recovery of the doctrines of grace, or what has historically been called, "Calvinism." Both statistical and anecdotal evidence of this fact continues to mount. I believe that this is a movement of God and that it is even more widespread than recent studies indicate. As is true with any of work of God, the devil always keeps pace and seeks to steal, kill and destroy. If he cannot keep us from truth then he will do what he can to cause us to hold the truth in imbalanced and ungodly ways."
6. Young Pastors and staff members are speaking and writing articles that it is dangerous to lead a child to pray to accept Christ? If this is true, what then should a child do and how should a child be lead by their parents and other influences?
7. Why is Lifeway sponsoring The Gospel Coalition conferences?
8. Why is Lifeway promoting more Calvinists and their material?
9. Why are Calvinists leaders NOT doing more to instill that Pastors must be upfront with their Soteriology? There are even manuals on how to transition a church from Traditional to Calvinist doctrine. If there is no move to change the SBC, why are there manuals by 9Marks and others?
10. Why the aggression from Calvinists because many in the SBC do NOT agree with them?
11. If the BF&M is enough, why do we have two Seminaries requiring faculty to sign other statements that are Calvinists/Reformed documents?
12. Since when did Baptist and Reform go together? The day to day operations of the church do not even match!
13. If there is no takeover plan, why was there a SBC Professor giving the benefits of the takover (even using a racial slur) at one of the meetings during the SBC?
14. Why did Lifeway do a survey that gave the participants no option other than saying they were either Calvinists or Arminion?
15. With the exception of Infant Baptism, since when were Baptist and Presbyterians so much alike? Dr. James Kennedy was my kind of Presbyterian but today's New Calvinists are nothing close in belief and practice. Just think back to Evangelism Explosion materials (I was certified as a trainer in an SBC church). Today's New Calvinists would reject Dr. Kennedy's material. How and why?
These are the questions I have. They are simple and I think need to be answered. We are told that we need to cooperate. I am fine with that. I am concerned though that the answers to the above may highlight the difficult journey that cooperation will reveal. Some Traditionalists are even saying they will sit this discussion out. I wonder if they would maintain that position when the real truth of the answers are shown.
I find this issue extremely important simply by the answers to point number one. If we cannot agree on that one, then we have two different Gospels. Cooperation will not occur at that point.
And speaking of the Gospel, is it not odd that Calvinists/Reformed call their Soteriology the true Gospel and thus label much of their work and conferences with the word Gospel in it?
These are my concerns.
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Entering into a relationship with Jesus - Part 2
As we continue this series on the "how" a person enters into a relationship with Jesus, we will pick up with the real reason this article was written and the 9 points the author of the article makes pertaining to sharing the Gospel with children and why another way is bad/wrong.
The author states:
Point 1 - This type of figurative language is NOT appropriate for children.
Question: Since when? The Bible uses this same type of language. Are we really at a point where we are going to question the very Words of Jesus?
My thoughts: This is a straw man if ever there was one. David Platt has made the same statement. The real motivation of this statement is to attack the idea that the Gospel/Salvation is available for all/who so ever. If a person is born elect and has no choice, then their will not be a decision nor a asking into the heart moment in their life. There will be a moment of "realization".
Point 2 - Salvation does not come from our asking, but from what Jesus has done.
Question: Do we have to accept it or is it automatic?
My thoughts: I will add to what I stated above in Point 1 this: The Reformed/Calvinist thought actually believes that the Gospel is limited and thus some people are born with NO hope of salvation. People do not need to ask Jesus into their hearts for they were elect from the beginning. They just need to realize it. Those who do NOT realize, were not elect, and thus destined for hell with NO hope ever.
Point 3 - The gospel is NOT primarily about Jesus’ work in our hearts, but about Jesus’ work in history.
Question: Does our heart matter?
My thoughts: I fully grasp the statement if it were to stand alone, absent an agenda. However, this statement is another way of restating Point 2.
Point 4 - The Gospel Appeals to more than emotion.
Question: Who said that emotion is all that the Gospel appeals to?
My thoughts: The attack here is on Revivalism. Simply put, Reformed/Calvinist actually think that people over the years who accepted Christ during revival meetings or during an invitation call made a preacher to accept Christ, really did not have it right. Again, the assumptions made are startling. Yes there were those who used emotion to get people to walk the isles. Yes it was wrong. But the majority did not rely on emotions and to make such an implication is absurd. The author then states in this point that accepting Christ is "finally resting in Christ". Again, accept that it is a reality of the elect and NOT a decision that needs to be made.
Point 5 - Over emphasizing a change of heart can actually discourage a child.
Question: Do you realize that this appears to negate the role of brokenness?
My thoughts: A heart change is what is needed! Brokenness allows one to see this need and leads to confession and repentance. The thought expressed by the author is one derived from the secular counseling side of theological thought. It is bad theology and the fear does not exist. It preys on the parents sensitivity which when applied, would lead parents down a path of NOT calling their own children to repent. This is SAD!
The author states:
I have come to believe that the phrase “ask Jesus into your heart” can be a dangerous way of calling someone to faith.
Point 1 - This type of figurative language is NOT appropriate for children.
Question: Since when? The Bible uses this same type of language. Are we really at a point where we are going to question the very Words of Jesus?
My thoughts: This is a straw man if ever there was one. David Platt has made the same statement. The real motivation of this statement is to attack the idea that the Gospel/Salvation is available for all/who so ever. If a person is born elect and has no choice, then their will not be a decision nor a asking into the heart moment in their life. There will be a moment of "realization".
Point 2 - Salvation does not come from our asking, but from what Jesus has done.
Question: Do we have to accept it or is it automatic?
My thoughts: I will add to what I stated above in Point 1 this: The Reformed/Calvinist thought actually believes that the Gospel is limited and thus some people are born with NO hope of salvation. People do not need to ask Jesus into their hearts for they were elect from the beginning. They just need to realize it. Those who do NOT realize, were not elect, and thus destined for hell with NO hope ever.
Point 3 - The gospel is NOT primarily about Jesus’ work in our hearts, but about Jesus’ work in history.
Question: Does our heart matter?
My thoughts: I fully grasp the statement if it were to stand alone, absent an agenda. However, this statement is another way of restating Point 2.
Point 4 - The Gospel Appeals to more than emotion.
Question: Who said that emotion is all that the Gospel appeals to?
My thoughts: The attack here is on Revivalism. Simply put, Reformed/Calvinist actually think that people over the years who accepted Christ during revival meetings or during an invitation call made a preacher to accept Christ, really did not have it right. Again, the assumptions made are startling. Yes there were those who used emotion to get people to walk the isles. Yes it was wrong. But the majority did not rely on emotions and to make such an implication is absurd. The author then states in this point that accepting Christ is "finally resting in Christ". Again, accept that it is a reality of the elect and NOT a decision that needs to be made.
Point 5 - Over emphasizing a change of heart can actually discourage a child.
Question: Do you realize that this appears to negate the role of brokenness?
My thoughts: A heart change is what is needed! Brokenness allows one to see this need and leads to confession and repentance. The thought expressed by the author is one derived from the secular counseling side of theological thought. It is bad theology and the fear does not exist. It preys on the parents sensitivity which when applied, would lead parents down a path of NOT calling their own children to repent. This is SAD!
The next post will continue with points 6 - 9.
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