The spotlight was placed on Daniel many times in his life by those not of similar beliefs. Daniel was challenged with food in Chapter 1. In chapter 2 Daniel interprets the vision/dream of King Nebuchadnezzar when no one else could. Daniel is recognized as one with wisdom and insight not only in chapter 2 but also continually from chapter 2 on. How did Daniel rise in recognition. Di Daniel have a public relations strategy? Was there an agent promoting Daniel?
Today Christians live in and live out our narcissistic behavior. The promotion of self drives much of what we do. We have traded the protest lines and parades for our social media tools. Some are real good at self promotion. So good that in today's world a person with limited success or wisdom from experience can rise to a popular level quickly. Maybe personality plays into the factors involved. It is possible that we humans are simply gullible enough to pass over the scrutiny that was once found before our attention and affections were given. Make no doubt, we promote but we also see simultaneous loss of influence in our world. And this is an important connection to understand.
With the increase use of secular methods comes the increase message of secular thought. Daniel was known and respected for his beliefs. His being known was not due to his self promotion but simply the conduct of how his life was lived out in the real world - a world that did not worship the God of Daniel. Much like today, few in Daniels time listened to the things of God. Yet they sought Daniel to enlighten them. We should ask the question WHY?
A close look at Daniels life reveals a life of consistency to his determined purpose. He had purposed in his heart whom he would worship. He adjusted his life to live out that purpose. Daniel wanted all glory to go to God. He lived for nothing else. He respected those who disagreed with him. He sought to understand them while resisting the human tendency to take things personally. He was relational with his life. And Daniel avoided arrogance almost perfectly.
Daniel was a person who influenced while only promoting God. Daniel was anything but narcissistic. We should seek to understand the Daniel way of living in our American secular culture. We should pray that God would give us the opportunity to influence people in a manner similar to Daniel. To be sought out because of how we live bears greater fruit than our self promotion could ever produce.
The lesson from Daniels popularity is profound. When God blesses and grants his favor, the evil one's in this world will pay attention. promotion is cause for humility. Humility is the path to influence with people. Daniel loved people much like Nehemiah did. He cared about the pain and destruction that would occur in their lives without surrender to Jehovah God. He knew that only from building relationships with them could he ever hope to find them willing to listen to his thoughts. Daniel lived his life loving God, loving people, and dependent on God to promote and provide the opportunity for influence. And in Daniel we that God opened doors in God like fashion.
I guess we could say about Daniel that he did have a public relations agent after all. He had the one that you and I have today - he had God. The difference between us and Daniel is easy to see. We promote for our sakes. Daniel was promoted for his exaltation of and living for, God.
When our lives match our announced commitment, God will promote bigger than we dream!
Self promotion can never gain us the influence that God can. So why do we continue to live in a such selfish, narcissistic manner?
Part 3 will deal with our methods.
Blogging for the purpose of Spiritual Growth and Edification
Showing posts with label Vision. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Vision. Show all posts
Monday, July 1, 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?
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Mass Publicity and the Truth - Big Difference
In 1980's being a rock Star meant you figuratively owned the world. Stars were idolized based on a bands popularity. Flowing from their singing or screaming was also a sense of fashion and appearance. Athletes picked up on the whole star thing and they had a guy named Micheal Jordan who led the charge in creating the star mentality for sports figures that surpassed anything up till then. We forget that all along there have been stars - real stars! Some reading this will remember Roger Staubach. Others will go way back to a few coaches like Tom Landry or Vince Lombardi. Stars have been around in all facets of life. We all admire somebody for some reason.
We are drawn to these figures today as we were once drawn to cartoons. Batman, Superman, Spider Man, and even the Hulk were characters that we would emulate as youngsters. My life was confined to basically three stars: Roger Staubach, Nolan Ryan and The FBI! Leading a comeback, striking out the side, and cuffing and stuffing. I picked those three for a reason. Each of them stood and still stand for something of value. Yes each were good at what they did. But there was a character quality about each that drove me to respect and admire them. So strong was this quality that I would pretend as I young boy that was in certain situations and my reactions to such were just like these three. Granted, these were the days when the only video game was a white ball going back and forth across the screen.
Fast forward to 2013 and something interesting is taking place. Mass publicity for years has highlighted the rock stars, the athletes, and the movie stars. Since the 90's these have been the "heroes" of many. Social media and reality TV have escalated their popularity. These figures developed a growing influence of our culture as they spoke out in favor or opposition of their desired interest. Much of the crazy ideas of today stem from a group that makes millions off of publicity. Truth be known, their talents and brain power are limited. But there is a change in the air. This change seems to be gaining steam as we see the truth that publicity often hid in the past, being exposed by mere over exposure. I actually love the irony.
I can sense as I scan Facebook and Twitter this new air blowing. First responders are growing in admiration and appreciation. Our men and women in uniform are admired and cheered for. Those who buckle it up and get it done day in and day out are miraculously becoming heroes. They should have been all along. People see the difference between those who promote and those who actually care and do. The millions made and flaunted by punk type people who would have a difficult time qualifying for any other type of work is about to reach a point of push back. The inside realities of these narcissist cannot compete with people who put their lives on the line daily because they value more than money and fame. Today's growing heroes are people who value life and freedom. They value it enough to do something about it. Politicians cannot escape this new air that is blowing. The truth is slowly but surely being seen. And the reality is gripping every age group. Blowhards will always be there sucking our money and ideas. But heroes are real people who do amazing real things.
The remaining ingredient for this new air to become mature is simple. When we all step back and realize that money and fame are nothing and that life and family are everything, we will rediscover one of the most precious missing values over the past 20 years. The ugly world we live in today, that will be even more ugly tomorrow, requires this simple value of life and reality. For when money and fame cannot be found, values show us what has been important all along. They remind us that we are here for a reason - to reach people with the gospel. They motivate us to action when lives are threatened. Values when present, drive us in positive directions that grow and build. Values give life and create freedom for life.
I read today an article about Tim Tebow. Much is being said in reference to his love for ministry and sharing Jesus. Often Christians have chided those who have ridiculed his treatment in the NFL. But this article highlighted the real issues that Tebow must deal with in regard to skill and knowledge. Now that he has been released, his promotion is limited. And it is now that we will see if Tebow can stand up and do what must be done to maintain his NFL career or not. The reality of all of this slams into our faces - though Tebow accomplished some great things in college and has been faithful in ministry, is he the person who can learn and grow to become a real NFL QB? Or is Tebow like the many before him who through publicity and promotion have hid the truth about his skills/weaknesses only to become a media frenzy with limited accomplishment. Only time will tell.
And guess what? Each of us are in the same spot today. Only time will tell what is the real truth about our values and character. Publicity fades. Promotion lacks real perspective. Self promotion is seldom accurate and often purposefully done to prevent the truth from being shown.
Time reveals the truth in each of us.
And that is a BIG DIFFERENCE!
We are drawn to these figures today as we were once drawn to cartoons. Batman, Superman, Spider Man, and even the Hulk were characters that we would emulate as youngsters. My life was confined to basically three stars: Roger Staubach, Nolan Ryan and The FBI! Leading a comeback, striking out the side, and cuffing and stuffing. I picked those three for a reason. Each of them stood and still stand for something of value. Yes each were good at what they did. But there was a character quality about each that drove me to respect and admire them. So strong was this quality that I would pretend as I young boy that was in certain situations and my reactions to such were just like these three. Granted, these were the days when the only video game was a white ball going back and forth across the screen.
Fast forward to 2013 and something interesting is taking place. Mass publicity for years has highlighted the rock stars, the athletes, and the movie stars. Since the 90's these have been the "heroes" of many. Social media and reality TV have escalated their popularity. These figures developed a growing influence of our culture as they spoke out in favor or opposition of their desired interest. Much of the crazy ideas of today stem from a group that makes millions off of publicity. Truth be known, their talents and brain power are limited. But there is a change in the air. This change seems to be gaining steam as we see the truth that publicity often hid in the past, being exposed by mere over exposure. I actually love the irony.
I can sense as I scan Facebook and Twitter this new air blowing. First responders are growing in admiration and appreciation. Our men and women in uniform are admired and cheered for. Those who buckle it up and get it done day in and day out are miraculously becoming heroes. They should have been all along. People see the difference between those who promote and those who actually care and do. The millions made and flaunted by punk type people who would have a difficult time qualifying for any other type of work is about to reach a point of push back. The inside realities of these narcissist cannot compete with people who put their lives on the line daily because they value more than money and fame. Today's growing heroes are people who value life and freedom. They value it enough to do something about it. Politicians cannot escape this new air that is blowing. The truth is slowly but surely being seen. And the reality is gripping every age group. Blowhards will always be there sucking our money and ideas. But heroes are real people who do amazing real things.
The remaining ingredient for this new air to become mature is simple. When we all step back and realize that money and fame are nothing and that life and family are everything, we will rediscover one of the most precious missing values over the past 20 years. The ugly world we live in today, that will be even more ugly tomorrow, requires this simple value of life and reality. For when money and fame cannot be found, values show us what has been important all along. They remind us that we are here for a reason - to reach people with the gospel. They motivate us to action when lives are threatened. Values when present, drive us in positive directions that grow and build. Values give life and create freedom for life.
I read today an article about Tim Tebow. Much is being said in reference to his love for ministry and sharing Jesus. Often Christians have chided those who have ridiculed his treatment in the NFL. But this article highlighted the real issues that Tebow must deal with in regard to skill and knowledge. Now that he has been released, his promotion is limited. And it is now that we will see if Tebow can stand up and do what must be done to maintain his NFL career or not. The reality of all of this slams into our faces - though Tebow accomplished some great things in college and has been faithful in ministry, is he the person who can learn and grow to become a real NFL QB? Or is Tebow like the many before him who through publicity and promotion have hid the truth about his skills/weaknesses only to become a media frenzy with limited accomplishment. Only time will tell.
And guess what? Each of us are in the same spot today. Only time will tell what is the real truth about our values and character. Publicity fades. Promotion lacks real perspective. Self promotion is seldom accurate and often purposefully done to prevent the truth from being shown.
Time reveals the truth in each of us.
And that is a BIG DIFFERENCE!
Friday, April 26, 2013
The disconnect of knowledge and change!
I read. I read a lot. I read everything from my Bible, to books, to articles, to sports stats, to cartoons. I read a lot! So I got to thinking last night. Does one need to be careful to not read too much? Are there dangers in reading too much? This I thought on all night and most of today. Indeed there may be something to this thought. Allow me to show you.
#1 Reading can never be underestimated. Reading sharpens our thinking and keeps our brain learning. Reading is healthy. But this only occurs based on the content of what one reads. If I dive into a Louis L'Amour classic western, I am reading for entertainment. I may be thinking, but the thoughts are not requiring much analysis and reason. There is little to apply with this type of reading. And yet, reading for entertainment is good and fun. But too much defeats the purpose.
#2. Reading for information sake is also fun. This is why I read 20 to 30 articles a day. I try to stay informed and learn. But here is a trap. If I only use one type of source for this reading, my learning is not complete. One type of source never ever gets the whole picture. So for a guy as conservative as I am, I read even liberal stuff. Why? I want to see the big picture. I want to learn how and why people think the way they do. What makes a person tick. There is value in learning this. But caution must be used in applying this new found information. Just because I know something doesn't mean anything about me or my abilities. I just know. Big deal. Arrogance of knowledge is a dangerous trap! Knowledge without the understanding to apply is real dangerous. And don't forget, knowing what is good, right, bad, and evil, can be even more difficult.
#3 Reading to change. Now this hurts. When one reads to change, one reads with the idea of instant interaction. This is how we should approach our Bible reading. If, when reading the Bible, all we get is information, no change will occur for the good. But when we read and apply, asking God to change us through His Word, life change occurs in us. And this type of change is so needed.
Of the above three, #3 is the one most needed today. With all the resources available and the push for people to read more, we Pastors really need to highlight #3 in our promotion and encouragement. If we take the first 2 and miss #3 we miss God. If we use the approaches of the first 2 with the Bible and do not apply #3, we are missing God changing us. God is not impressed with how much we know about Him. God desires our transformation - change - in Him!
Technology has allowed me to read more books than I would have ever dreamed. I can read thoughts of people from all over the world instantaneously, but none of that will change me like God can through His Word. Nothing is life giving as the Word of God. And this is what we all need most.
So here is a simple challenge from me to you - take out your Bible. Put away all the other stuff. Ask God to change you via what you are about to read. And dive into the greatest book in all of history, past present and future! The Bible will reconnect knowledge and change in your life. And this connection will be worth more than you will ever dream!
#1 Reading can never be underestimated. Reading sharpens our thinking and keeps our brain learning. Reading is healthy. But this only occurs based on the content of what one reads. If I dive into a Louis L'Amour classic western, I am reading for entertainment. I may be thinking, but the thoughts are not requiring much analysis and reason. There is little to apply with this type of reading. And yet, reading for entertainment is good and fun. But too much defeats the purpose.
#2. Reading for information sake is also fun. This is why I read 20 to 30 articles a day. I try to stay informed and learn. But here is a trap. If I only use one type of source for this reading, my learning is not complete. One type of source never ever gets the whole picture. So for a guy as conservative as I am, I read even liberal stuff. Why? I want to see the big picture. I want to learn how and why people think the way they do. What makes a person tick. There is value in learning this. But caution must be used in applying this new found information. Just because I know something doesn't mean anything about me or my abilities. I just know. Big deal. Arrogance of knowledge is a dangerous trap! Knowledge without the understanding to apply is real dangerous. And don't forget, knowing what is good, right, bad, and evil, can be even more difficult.
#3 Reading to change. Now this hurts. When one reads to change, one reads with the idea of instant interaction. This is how we should approach our Bible reading. If, when reading the Bible, all we get is information, no change will occur for the good. But when we read and apply, asking God to change us through His Word, life change occurs in us. And this type of change is so needed.
Of the above three, #3 is the one most needed today. With all the resources available and the push for people to read more, we Pastors really need to highlight #3 in our promotion and encouragement. If we take the first 2 and miss #3 we miss God. If we use the approaches of the first 2 with the Bible and do not apply #3, we are missing God changing us. God is not impressed with how much we know about Him. God desires our transformation - change - in Him!
Technology has allowed me to read more books than I would have ever dreamed. I can read thoughts of people from all over the world instantaneously, but none of that will change me like God can through His Word. Nothing is life giving as the Word of God. And this is what we all need most.
So here is a simple challenge from me to you - take out your Bible. Put away all the other stuff. Ask God to change you via what you are about to read. And dive into the greatest book in all of history, past present and future! The Bible will reconnect knowledge and change in your life. And this connection will be worth more than you will ever dream!
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Are we awake?
Strange question to ask someone reading a post on a blog. Obviously if one is reading one is awake. The question actually applies to our awareness of just how quickly times are a changing. For those of us who have accepted Christ, this change should have us wide awake. Every aspect of our culture is experiencing radical redefining. Christians and churches are not exempt.
When I look at my two sons, I wonder what in the world will they have to deal with in the days ahead if Christs return is delayed? When I think of future grandchildren - wow the world will be different. I am not as much scared as I am concerned. I wonder if we realize the tools and grounding that will be needed to survive the coming turmoil. We know that in Christ we are over comers and more than victors. Yet our tool belts will need to be properly filled and we will need to be properly equipped to obtain the victory. What is your like?
As we approach a new day of worship and spiritual growth, ask yourself some tough questions: Are you prepared and are you equipping? This is were we need to wake up. The time is now. Time to apply and reach as many as possible. Time to prepare our children for their own children. Time to make huge strides in adjusting our ministries to meet the above needs. it is NOT time to live in fear and panic. It is time to make the most of what God has given us and rise to the occassion.
As we approach church tomorrow, or tonight, go awake! Go ready to celebrate. Go ready to grow! If you serve in a ministry role - give it your all! You are making a impact period! Make sure it is a good one!
Yours and my future grandchildren indeed are the one's who's futures we are impacting today!
Let's wake up! See you in church!
When I look at my two sons, I wonder what in the world will they have to deal with in the days ahead if Christs return is delayed? When I think of future grandchildren - wow the world will be different. I am not as much scared as I am concerned. I wonder if we realize the tools and grounding that will be needed to survive the coming turmoil. We know that in Christ we are over comers and more than victors. Yet our tool belts will need to be properly filled and we will need to be properly equipped to obtain the victory. What is your like?
As we approach a new day of worship and spiritual growth, ask yourself some tough questions: Are you prepared and are you equipping? This is were we need to wake up. The time is now. Time to apply and reach as many as possible. Time to prepare our children for their own children. Time to make huge strides in adjusting our ministries to meet the above needs. it is NOT time to live in fear and panic. It is time to make the most of what God has given us and rise to the occassion.
As we approach church tomorrow, or tonight, go awake! Go ready to celebrate. Go ready to grow! If you serve in a ministry role - give it your all! You are making a impact period! Make sure it is a good one!
Yours and my future grandchildren indeed are the one's who's futures we are impacting today!
Let's wake up! See you in church!
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, November 23, 2010
It takes the right vision - Church and Big Decisions
In what today seems like years ago I learned a lesson that I have never forgotten. Vision is easy. But the right vision is never easy! In leading a church this may be the most difficult lesson of all to apply. And I am still learning this lesson with every day that passes. Vision in itself is exciting and prioritizing. But Vision can also be the downfall of one's ministry; personally and corporately.
Getting the right vision and seeing the vision realized requires many smaller visions to complete. Beginning with implementation one's vision can can either shine or go bust. This has become one the BIG stumbling blocks in our day. When a leader and team begin to understand the vision that God gives, excitement often leads to a premature roll out and careless neglect of time for growth among the people. We force when we ought to grow. We forget that it took time for God to get His vision in our hearts and thus time for others to grasp from the Lord is equally required.
Odd to me is the growing and promoted idea that I often hear from Pastors that church members need to follow the vision of the leadership. Little emphasis is given to the sharing of the vision and the depth needed in the sharing process. A leader must lead. Forcing and pushing is NOT leadership. In our recent events, we actually were forced to go slow due to negotiations and availability of land. Yet when the time came, much effort was placed and time was further extended to allow for the sharing and grasping of the vision by the people. No one on our staff but me had ever been involved in this type of presentation and I will be the first to admit that I humanly struggled with the idea of taking more time. I was eager. My staff was eager. Three years of hunting and working had passed. The lay leaders where chomping at the bit. Two votes by the church had already occurred to allow the search and to spend the funds for due diligence. It was easy to jump to the conclusion that there had been enough time and enough talk. Just get it done was often the thought running through my head! But that approach could have (would have) killed what God desired.
I listened a few weeks ago to Dr. Ronnie Floyd share the story of how the name change occurred in Springdale to Cross Church. In his presentation to the church he stated the fact that he himself was the one to slow the change down. That was refreshing. Timing and roll out must never be over looked. Lay leaders may be on board (as ours were - all 54) but still the whole of the congregation needs time. The vision must be refined and often the laity are Gods tool for refinement.
Transparency and understanding require work and patience. I wonder why we in leadership so easily skip over the multiple verses in the Bible that explain these traits. Even Galatians makes it clear that long suffering is one quadrant of the Fruit of the Spirit. I learned during this latest process that patience just might be one of the biggest issues we Pastors face. The battle within me waged daily over moving quickly. Discussions with leaders and all laity were almost redundant to me. The pull of Satan to trip me up at this point was for me a major struggle. It helped to refresh my spirit in the area of spiritual warfare and it reminded me that as a leader, it really does rise and fall at the top.
We took the time to make sure all were included and had ample opportunity to hear, experience, pray and seek the Will of God. We knew we could accomplish what was needed. But more important to us as a staff and key lay leaders was the understanding that a church is all about God and His work in the lives of people. We had no choice but to give Him time to work. The result was an incredible move of God that no man could produce. Is that not what it is suppose to be like?
Our smaller visions in presentations, time to absorb, question and answer sessions, and most of all prayer times bore a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere that resulted in the big vision being overwhelming approved with little negative. No one has left the church mad. No one has been cut out. No one has been told to "trust us". God is working and as a result we are seeing people saved and joining His church during a time that many hide out in fear waiting for the implosion.
Remember, this church had built nothing, done upkeep on little, and had little hope of survival for over 57 years. There was history of "bad" meetings over smaller things. This church is what many young Pastors speak of in ultra negative tones and descriptions. I was even told NOT to take the position. Yet in the last 4 years it has now begun a new contemporary service, leased and shared the old facilities with another church of another denomination, over hauled the Children's Ministry and now voted to relocate - none of which were on the radar at all 4 1/2 years ago. Only God could do what has occurred here. And for that I more than thankful!
Next post: God's Vision is People!
Getting the right vision and seeing the vision realized requires many smaller visions to complete. Beginning with implementation one's vision can can either shine or go bust. This has become one the BIG stumbling blocks in our day. When a leader and team begin to understand the vision that God gives, excitement often leads to a premature roll out and careless neglect of time for growth among the people. We force when we ought to grow. We forget that it took time for God to get His vision in our hearts and thus time for others to grasp from the Lord is equally required.
Odd to me is the growing and promoted idea that I often hear from Pastors that church members need to follow the vision of the leadership. Little emphasis is given to the sharing of the vision and the depth needed in the sharing process. A leader must lead. Forcing and pushing is NOT leadership. In our recent events, we actually were forced to go slow due to negotiations and availability of land. Yet when the time came, much effort was placed and time was further extended to allow for the sharing and grasping of the vision by the people. No one on our staff but me had ever been involved in this type of presentation and I will be the first to admit that I humanly struggled with the idea of taking more time. I was eager. My staff was eager. Three years of hunting and working had passed. The lay leaders where chomping at the bit. Two votes by the church had already occurred to allow the search and to spend the funds for due diligence. It was easy to jump to the conclusion that there had been enough time and enough talk. Just get it done was often the thought running through my head! But that approach could have (would have) killed what God desired.
I listened a few weeks ago to Dr. Ronnie Floyd share the story of how the name change occurred in Springdale to Cross Church. In his presentation to the church he stated the fact that he himself was the one to slow the change down. That was refreshing. Timing and roll out must never be over looked. Lay leaders may be on board (as ours were - all 54) but still the whole of the congregation needs time. The vision must be refined and often the laity are Gods tool for refinement.
Transparency and understanding require work and patience. I wonder why we in leadership so easily skip over the multiple verses in the Bible that explain these traits. Even Galatians makes it clear that long suffering is one quadrant of the Fruit of the Spirit. I learned during this latest process that patience just might be one of the biggest issues we Pastors face. The battle within me waged daily over moving quickly. Discussions with leaders and all laity were almost redundant to me. The pull of Satan to trip me up at this point was for me a major struggle. It helped to refresh my spirit in the area of spiritual warfare and it reminded me that as a leader, it really does rise and fall at the top.
We took the time to make sure all were included and had ample opportunity to hear, experience, pray and seek the Will of God. We knew we could accomplish what was needed. But more important to us as a staff and key lay leaders was the understanding that a church is all about God and His work in the lives of people. We had no choice but to give Him time to work. The result was an incredible move of God that no man could produce. Is that not what it is suppose to be like?
Our smaller visions in presentations, time to absorb, question and answer sessions, and most of all prayer times bore a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere that resulted in the big vision being overwhelming approved with little negative. No one has left the church mad. No one has been cut out. No one has been told to "trust us". God is working and as a result we are seeing people saved and joining His church during a time that many hide out in fear waiting for the implosion.
Remember, this church had built nothing, done upkeep on little, and had little hope of survival for over 57 years. There was history of "bad" meetings over smaller things. This church is what many young Pastors speak of in ultra negative tones and descriptions. I was even told NOT to take the position. Yet in the last 4 years it has now begun a new contemporary service, leased and shared the old facilities with another church of another denomination, over hauled the Children's Ministry and now voted to relocate - none of which were on the radar at all 4 1/2 years ago. Only God could do what has occurred here. And for that I more than thankful!
Next post: God's Vision is People!
Monday, November 15, 2010
Transparency, Church, and Big Decisions
For over 20 years I have ministered in great churches with great people. From being a Pastor to serving as an adviser, I have witnessed many situations and many challenges in churches attempting to do major things in the kingdom. I have watched as some of these situations have been peaceful and some have been NOT so peaceful. I have read all I could find on "how to" and what to do". Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think that what I am about to share would occur.
Recently, our church finished a 6 year journey (that began before my arrival) dealing with a building issue. The church has not done anything building wise etc. for more than 57 years. Very few of the church family have ever been through a building program - much less a Capital Campaign. The whole idea was scary for most if not all. The possibilities of Satan creating a huge mess were very real and easy to see. At risk was the very fact that though buildings etc. had not occurred (nor much upkeep due to expense), missions and ministry had flowed freely and generously for years. Multiple nations have been touched by the church family with money and actual people on the ground. Nine have surrendered to ministry within the past 15 months. Indeed much was at stake with this journey. The reality that time was running out and no examples of similar situations succeeding made this journey an adventure.
The study and conclusions that were reached over the 6 years called for the purchase of property and relocation of the ministry. The task was not easy and the project is long from completion. But the first few steps have been one to write about. Over the course of the next few posts I plan to share some insight into common thought applied to this particular situation. Remember, for over 57 years this church has not built anything in regard to buildings. Important to note is that this church is currently in the inner city. Also revealing is that less than 10 couples can be found in the age bracket range of 40 to 60. This church should not be doing what it is indeed doing. This church should be closing down shop. It is not a church that many young Pastors would consider worthy of their interest. But what this church has accomplished to date and how it accomplished it speaks loud and clear in a day of perception oriented reality that is often very off base.
While many are writing these churches off, I believe this church is actually a pace setter for what can and should be occurring all over America with the right spirit, approach and patience. Maybe the greatest reality of this situation is that others will be inspired by it. Many of our churches today are identical to this one. Many of our churches today lack encouragement to do what this church found the courage to do even while others said "NO WAY!"
I pray this story will be an encouragement!
Next Post: It takes the right vision!
Recently, our church finished a 6 year journey (that began before my arrival) dealing with a building issue. The church has not done anything building wise etc. for more than 57 years. Very few of the church family have ever been through a building program - much less a Capital Campaign. The whole idea was scary for most if not all. The possibilities of Satan creating a huge mess were very real and easy to see. At risk was the very fact that though buildings etc. had not occurred (nor much upkeep due to expense), missions and ministry had flowed freely and generously for years. Multiple nations have been touched by the church family with money and actual people on the ground. Nine have surrendered to ministry within the past 15 months. Indeed much was at stake with this journey. The reality that time was running out and no examples of similar situations succeeding made this journey an adventure.
The study and conclusions that were reached over the 6 years called for the purchase of property and relocation of the ministry. The task was not easy and the project is long from completion. But the first few steps have been one to write about. Over the course of the next few posts I plan to share some insight into common thought applied to this particular situation. Remember, for over 57 years this church has not built anything in regard to buildings. Important to note is that this church is currently in the inner city. Also revealing is that less than 10 couples can be found in the age bracket range of 40 to 60. This church should not be doing what it is indeed doing. This church should be closing down shop. It is not a church that many young Pastors would consider worthy of their interest. But what this church has accomplished to date and how it accomplished it speaks loud and clear in a day of perception oriented reality that is often very off base.
While many are writing these churches off, I believe this church is actually a pace setter for what can and should be occurring all over America with the right spirit, approach and patience. Maybe the greatest reality of this situation is that others will be inspired by it. Many of our churches today are identical to this one. Many of our churches today lack encouragement to do what this church found the courage to do even while others said "NO WAY!"
I pray this story will be an encouragement!
Next Post: It takes the right vision!
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