As I look and notice that I haven't posted since last December a slew of thoughts flood my mind. So much I could write about. So many life lessons, moments in church transitioning, ups and downs in leading people. Where to start? How to keep it simple?
Let me begin with one of my passions: involvement in community. I think too many Christians are missing a bigger picture when it comes to community. We have two mainstream extremes: one that says, "it's all about church" and the other that says, "it's all about being out of corporate church." How I wish we could see the "both" and "more" in this issue instead of focusing on the "either/or" mindset.
If you know anything about me then you know most of my ministry training came from Taco Bell. Yep, restaurant management! Development of systems, training, labor structure, food cost, scheduling, hiring, firing, customer satisfaction, community involvement and on and on. My store was the first to introduce a "Police Office" in the store. An idea to provide a off-site location for cops to stop in and do work in-between calls. My store was also ranked 153 in the company. Granted we were not in the top 100, but 153 out of 1500 worldwide, is not bad.
The reason I bring this up is when I go into a restaurant, I look for the signs. A trained eye will tell you a lot about a place before you take a bite. One time when I was a youth pastor I was traveling with three college students and we stopped at a Taco Bell for lunch. I'm looking around at the place and ask them, "how long do you think this store has been open?" (It was clearly a new store but some things were jumping out at me.) They all said between two and three years old, I guessed 6 months. We asked the manager on duty and he informed us next week will be their 6th month next week.
When we moved to Hopkinsville one of the fast food places caught my attention. Always friendly service, fast and good food and clean! One day after eating there I asked to talk to the general manager. I told her how impressed I was with her store and commended her for her hard work. I told her I was a new pastor in town but just wanted her to know her hard work doesn't go unnoticed. She started crying and gave me a hug. That was the start of our friendship and, I'll be honest, I really wanted to see her and her family start coming to our church. So, faithfully I'd go and eat and invite her to our service or special event. One day driving over for lunch I felt God just gently say to me, "don't worry about her coming to church, just be there for the sake of friendship."
So, I laid-off the invites. Instead, I just focus on being a friend. There have been the occasional "counselling session" where she has needed advice on some issues and faith and I've been happy to help. Just a few weeks ago one of the assistant managers began attending our church and it's been cool to see God work in all of our lives.
Today, I received a devastating phone call from a church member informing me of the news that just came out. An employee from that restaurant was found murdered and the man that did it was found dead in his car. I rushed to the store just as my manager friend called to ask if I could come by. As I walk in I saw the manager and her assistant (the one who just started attending the church) crying with other employees over the horrific news and loss of their friend and fellow manager. I spent the next 30 minutes just listening to their hearts and letting them know I'll do whatever I can. I talked to a few employees having a hard time then was asked if I'd pray for them. I said I would. She then calls all the employees from the back to come up front and for five minutes in the lobby of the store, with customers in the background, I was able to lead them in prayer for peace and understanding and share with them that this was not God's plan. Each employee, many I'd never seen before, thanked me and either hugged me or shook my hand with appreciation.
What you don't know this happened because of a couple of factors working together. One: being connected to people outside myself--the church member who called me. I wouldn't have known about the situation if I were not plugged in to a local body of believers who live and work in the same town I'm trying to pastor. This is one reason why not withdrawing from a bigger group than just you and your family is so important. And two: seeing the bigger picture when it comes to community. If all we tried to do was to get people to come to "our church" then we could miss building a relationship outside the walls of the church.
It's all about the AND. Doing life inside a large church community AND inside a small group.
Hi, I'm Vince Farrell and I'm the pastor of a church. I never thought I'd be welcomed as a pastor of a restaurant, too.
Showing posts with label church. Show all posts
Showing posts with label church. Show all posts
Monday, May 7, 2012
Monday, July 11, 2011
Asking The Wrong Question
As I pray and search for creative ways to infuse vision into the church, I've done a lot of research on the question, "what is the church?"
I think that is a good question.
If you go on youtube or blogs or any social network you can find quite a bit of different views to the question, what is the church? Everything from: street interviews with public opinion, pastors explanation, creative animations of explanation and so on.
There are a lot of thoughts around this topic. Rightfully so, I mean both sides of the issue have plenty of scripture to back up their views, so much so, that it can quickly become a debate.
And that's where a good question quickly becomes bad.
It's bad to create division, strife, debate over what the church is, who the church is for, what the church should look like, and who it's not for. (like I said, a lot of views out there)
Perhaps we have these strong feelings about church because on one side non-believers (as well as some believers) have a very negative view of the church. Then on the other side there are very strong and positive views of the church. Thus the debate.
See if you ask most people, "what is the church?' They will respond correctly, "it's the people who follow Christ." True? Then if you point at a building and ask, "what is that?" They will answer, "a church."
Very confusing eh? The church is the people not the building, yet we meet in a building and call it a church. Back and forth we go! (sorry, forgive me for being factitious....but I think you see what I'm getting at.) Which by the way let me add. I believe Christians should faithfully gather together in large venues as the church in a church. ;)
So, here is my thought. Maybe we have all these different feelings about the church because we've spent so much time asking the wrong question. Perhaps instead of asking "what is the church?" we should ask "what is our life about?"
Did you get that? As believers (who are the church) when we come together in a church (place where we gather) we should ask the question, "what are our lives all about?
The answer?
Life is about God and His Kingdom.
If we truly understood that concept then we lose the tags of a church being seeker sensitive, traditional, transformational, emergent, modern, and countless others. We would not argue about the programs, strategies, and order of service line up. We would not leave the church because of personal preference dislikes or offense and hurt. Instead we'd exercise the very things that makes us a church without spot or wrinkle, things like unity, love, long-suffering, patience, kindness, perseverance and so on.
When I read what Christ says the Kingdom of God is like, then I see what God is like. When I pay attention to what God is like, I learn what He likes.
The church is us and in that we tend to bring a very US mindset in how we think it should be done. But if we live with a mindset that we are about His Kingdom then church will be different because we will be different.
It's not about asking "what is the church?" It's about asking "what is His Kingdom all about?"
I think that is a good question.
If you go on youtube or blogs or any social network you can find quite a bit of different views to the question, what is the church? Everything from: street interviews with public opinion, pastors explanation, creative animations of explanation and so on.
There are a lot of thoughts around this topic. Rightfully so, I mean both sides of the issue have plenty of scripture to back up their views, so much so, that it can quickly become a debate.
And that's where a good question quickly becomes bad.
It's bad to create division, strife, debate over what the church is, who the church is for, what the church should look like, and who it's not for. (like I said, a lot of views out there)
Perhaps we have these strong feelings about church because on one side non-believers (as well as some believers) have a very negative view of the church. Then on the other side there are very strong and positive views of the church. Thus the debate.
See if you ask most people, "what is the church?' They will respond correctly, "it's the people who follow Christ." True? Then if you point at a building and ask, "what is that?" They will answer, "a church."
Very confusing eh? The church is the people not the building, yet we meet in a building and call it a church. Back and forth we go! (sorry, forgive me for being factitious....but I think you see what I'm getting at.) Which by the way let me add. I believe Christians should faithfully gather together in large venues as the church in a church. ;)
So, here is my thought. Maybe we have all these different feelings about the church because we've spent so much time asking the wrong question. Perhaps instead of asking "what is the church?" we should ask "what is our life about?"
Did you get that? As believers (who are the church) when we come together in a church (place where we gather) we should ask the question, "what are our lives all about?
The answer?
Life is about God and His Kingdom.
If we truly understood that concept then we lose the tags of a church being seeker sensitive, traditional, transformational, emergent, modern, and countless others. We would not argue about the programs, strategies, and order of service line up. We would not leave the church because of personal preference dislikes or offense and hurt. Instead we'd exercise the very things that makes us a church without spot or wrinkle, things like unity, love, long-suffering, patience, kindness, perseverance and so on.
When I read what Christ says the Kingdom of God is like, then I see what God is like. When I pay attention to what God is like, I learn what He likes.
The church is us and in that we tend to bring a very US mindset in how we think it should be done. But if we live with a mindset that we are about His Kingdom then church will be different because we will be different.
It's not about asking "what is the church?" It's about asking "what is His Kingdom all about?"
Friday, July 1, 2011
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Release of the Sling Shot
In August of 08 I started traveling full-time ministering and encouraging churches, stateside and abroad. This new start in ministry came because of some other new beginning's end.
I've known our end result would be to Pastor a church and during these last three years I've felt very much like a rock in a sling shot. I see the target, but no matter how much I aim to hit it, it would appear instead of moving forward I'm being pulled back, pulled back, and pulled back.
See during this time of traveling and speaking, I've also been doing quite a bit of learning; gleaning from pastors who've been in ministry and have been around the block. I've attended church-planting meetings and conferences to try to learn and grow as much as I can. What I've learned has helped me develop and formulate some ideas concerning church planting and church revitalization. I've posted previously on here about those thoughts.
As I've traveled I've discovered my passion is to see the church grow and excel in what God has called it to do. I find myself coming alive when getting to speak to leadership about church growth principles and strategies, all the while I've explored every possible door when it comes to pastoring. Please understand when I say every door, I mean every door! I won't go into every detail, but I will add this.....while exploring every door that has appeared to open I have not felt it was ever an option to "go and do my own thing." I have a high conviction when it comes to authority and have listened and taken the advice of those over me even to the point when it's caused heartache. In fact, that's the true test to see if one is in submission---submitting when you disagree. (okay, off my soapbox)
Back at the first of February we were contacted by an pastor in KY who was wanting to retire toward the end of the year and he wanted to transition the church to a young minister. He's an old friend of my wife's dad's and had contacted him, which Dale in turn put him in touch with me. At the time we were in the midst of a (long) process with a church in Joplin (one of the many doors I mentioned above) and told the pastor that we felt like we should see that process through, but expressed our desire to come and speak for the church in KY and meet the leadership. So we scheduled a date in April and at the same time the church in Joplin didn't work out. (Keep in mind, this was BEFORE any tornado touched-down in Joplin....something to think about!).
The KY pastor had said that he would like to retire at the end of the year, with the transition happening right around then as well. We confirmed those date before renting this current house, because we had to sign a 1-year lease on it and didn't want to lose a lot of money.
So we went on Palm Sunday to Hopkinsville, KY. It's a small church. They went through a rough time about 11-12 years ago and this current pastor has been there for 11 years now and has really focused on healing up the people. And he's done a wonderful job of that, he's a very good man! They have a wonderful, debt-free facility located in a great neighborhood right beside an elementary school. Hopkinsville is just 20 minutes from Clarksville, TN where Fort Campbell is also. So you can see there are many great out-reach and ministry opportunities there.
That Palm Sunday weekend we met with their elders and wives and the pastor and his wife to just get to know each other a bit and let them ask us some questions and we asked them some as well. It was a great meeting and neither of us saw any red flags. That Sunday morning service went very well and the people were very welcoming.
Oh~and did I mention that the pastor would actually like to retire at the end of August?! So that meant we needed to talk with our landlords about our contract and just let them know that we may be moving soon. Well, what happened was nothing short of a miracle! We'd had a lawyer friend look at our contract to see if there were any loop holes, but he said there were none and we would just be at their mercy, meaning we may still owe them all the rent from the time we move until our contract is up at the end of next March. Which wasn't good news. But when we talked with the owner, she was totally understanding. It turns out her dad had also been in ministry and she understood the need to move quickly sometimes and they completely released us from our contract, just asking that we give them a 30-day notice and allow them to show the house should they put it back on the market while we're still in it. Talk about relief! To be released from that contract was SUCH a blessing! This is where I truly believe God is taking care of things behind the scenes.
After that I began to talk regularly on the phone with the pastor, who is just incredibly excited and really believes we are the young couple to transition the church.
The first weekend in June I went back and met with the elders and deacon and wives and also the pastor and his wife again for some more getting-to-know-each-other type talk. I spoke on Sunday morning and then that evening the church held a special Q&A session with me. Lora wasn't able to go that weekend, but it went very well and I came away very excited. All that to say....
WE JUST HEARD FROM THE PASTOR AFTER LUNCH TODAY THAT IT HAS BEEN
CONFIRMED! WE ARE GOING TO BE THE NEXT PASTORS OFCHRIST COMMUNITY CHURCH IN HOPKINSVILLE, KY!!
Also last week we made a quick overnight trip to Hopkinsville to look at homes. There is a young realtor in the church who is helping us. We did find one that we REALLY like and we went ahead (in faith!) and made an offer on it this weekend. We shot a bit low, but hoped to negotiate a good price. Well, we just got their counter offer back this past hour and it right at the amount we were willing to go up to! So we are accepting their counter offer~can't wait to be homeowners again!!
And that's the Big News! After feeling like a rock in a sling being pulled back, we are now being released!!!
I've known our end result would be to Pastor a church and during these last three years I've felt very much like a rock in a sling shot. I see the target, but no matter how much I aim to hit it, it would appear instead of moving forward I'm being pulled back, pulled back, and pulled back.
See during this time of traveling and speaking, I've also been doing quite a bit of learning; gleaning from pastors who've been in ministry and have been around the block. I've attended church-planting meetings and conferences to try to learn and grow as much as I can. What I've learned has helped me develop and formulate some ideas concerning church planting and church revitalization. I've posted previously on here about those thoughts.
As I've traveled I've discovered my passion is to see the church grow and excel in what God has called it to do. I find myself coming alive when getting to speak to leadership about church growth principles and strategies, all the while I've explored every possible door when it comes to pastoring. Please understand when I say every door, I mean every door! I won't go into every detail, but I will add this.....while exploring every door that has appeared to open I have not felt it was ever an option to "go and do my own thing." I have a high conviction when it comes to authority and have listened and taken the advice of those over me even to the point when it's caused heartache. In fact, that's the true test to see if one is in submission---submitting when you disagree. (okay, off my soapbox)
Back at the first of February we were contacted by an pastor in KY who was wanting to retire toward the end of the year and he wanted to transition the church to a young minister. He's an old friend of my wife's dad's and had contacted him, which Dale in turn put him in touch with me. At the time we were in the midst of a (long) process with a church in Joplin (one of the many doors I mentioned above) and told the pastor that we felt like we should see that process through, but expressed our desire to come and speak for the church in KY and meet the leadership. So we scheduled a date in April and at the same time the church in Joplin didn't work out. (Keep in mind, this was BEFORE any tornado touched-down in Joplin....something to think about!).
The KY pastor had said that he would like to retire at the end of the year, with the transition happening right around then as well. We confirmed those date before renting this current house, because we had to sign a 1-year lease on it and didn't want to lose a lot of money.
So we went on Palm Sunday to Hopkinsville, KY. It's a small church. They went through a rough time about 11-12 years ago and this current pastor has been there for 11 years now and has really focused on healing up the people. And he's done a wonderful job of that, he's a very good man! They have a wonderful, debt-free facility located in a great neighborhood right beside an elementary school. Hopkinsville is just 20 minutes from Clarksville, TN where Fort Campbell is also. So you can see there are many great out-reach and ministry opportunities there.
That Palm Sunday weekend we met with their elders and wives and the pastor and his wife to just get to know each other a bit and let them ask us some questions and we asked them some as well. It was a great meeting and neither of us saw any red flags. That Sunday morning service went very well and the people were very welcoming.
Oh~and did I mention that the pastor would actually like to retire at the end of August?! So that meant we needed to talk with our landlords about our contract and just let them know that we may be moving soon. Well, what happened was nothing short of a miracle! We'd had a lawyer friend look at our contract to see if there were any loop holes, but he said there were none and we would just be at their mercy, meaning we may still owe them all the rent from the time we move until our contract is up at the end of next March. Which wasn't good news. But when we talked with the owner, she was totally understanding. It turns out her dad had also been in ministry and she understood the need to move quickly sometimes and they completely released us from our contract, just asking that we give them a 30-day notice and allow them to show the house should they put it back on the market while we're still in it. Talk about relief! To be released from that contract was SUCH a blessing! This is where I truly believe God is taking care of things behind the scenes.
After that I began to talk regularly on the phone with the pastor, who is just incredibly excited and really believes we are the young couple to transition the church.
The first weekend in June I went back and met with the elders and deacon and wives and also the pastor and his wife again for some more getting-to-know-each-other type talk. I spoke on Sunday morning and then that evening the church held a special Q&A session with me. Lora wasn't able to go that weekend, but it went very well and I came away very excited. All that to say....
WE JUST HEARD FROM THE PASTOR AFTER LUNCH TODAY THAT IT HAS BEEN
CONFIRMED! WE ARE GOING TO BE THE NEXT PASTORS OFCHRIST COMMUNITY CHURCH IN HOPKINSVILLE, KY!!
Also last week we made a quick overnight trip to Hopkinsville to look at homes. There is a young realtor in the church who is helping us. We did find one that we REALLY like and we went ahead (in faith!) and made an offer on it this weekend. We shot a bit low, but hoped to negotiate a good price. Well, we just got their counter offer back this past hour and it right at the amount we were willing to go up to! So we are accepting their counter offer~can't wait to be homeowners again!!
And that's the Big News! After feeling like a rock in a sling being pulled back, we are now being released!!!
Monday, May 30, 2011
The Communications of Jesus
Technology is great, especially when it works. One of the great things we have at our disposal is the ability to pass information from books, sermons, or quotes to hundreds; if not thousands of people in an instant.
One subject I've noticed that can cause quite a stir in the Twitter, Facebook and Blogger circuit is when postings are made about the church.
Honestly, to me the subject of The Church can be one of the most confusing topics out there. I've heard pastors spend 30 minutes in their message talking about how the church is not a building but a people united for Jesus then spend the other 30 minutes encouraging people to be faithful to the building. (haha)
Let me say, I LOVE the Church and it's certainly a topic that can push my buttons. I've grown up in church, I've been hurt by the church, I've been loved by the church, I've attended church planting meetings and met with countless pastors on the subject of "The Church." With that said, allow me to set a little bit of context; I know it's human nature to quickly run to either side of the ditch when it comes to any subject. Righteousness and grace, legalism and freedom, Jesus and church, rebellion and religious and so on. But what we need to remember, regardless of what side of the ditch we end up on concerning an issue... it's still a ditch.
When it comes to statements like, "I love Jesus just not the church" or "Jesus would spend more time chasing after the one rather than the other ninety-nine" or even "Jesus wouldn't be in the church today" is my concern to what audience in which these statements are made. The truth is some people hear these statements and lock on to them as the "gospel" when they are nothing more than simple statements made to "relate" or "sympathize" with a generation who doesn't understand the church.
One subject I've noticed that can cause quite a stir in the Twitter, Facebook and Blogger circuit is when postings are made about the church.
Honestly, to me the subject of The Church can be one of the most confusing topics out there. I've heard pastors spend 30 minutes in their message talking about how the church is not a building but a people united for Jesus then spend the other 30 minutes encouraging people to be faithful to the building. (haha)
Let me say, I LOVE the Church and it's certainly a topic that can push my buttons. I've grown up in church, I've been hurt by the church, I've been loved by the church, I've attended church planting meetings and met with countless pastors on the subject of "The Church." With that said, allow me to set a little bit of context; I know it's human nature to quickly run to either side of the ditch when it comes to any subject. Righteousness and grace, legalism and freedom, Jesus and church, rebellion and religious and so on. But what we need to remember, regardless of what side of the ditch we end up on concerning an issue... it's still a ditch.
When it comes to statements like, "I love Jesus just not the church" or "Jesus would spend more time chasing after the one rather than the other ninety-nine" or even "Jesus wouldn't be in the church today" is my concern to what audience in which these statements are made. The truth is some people hear these statements and lock on to them as the "gospel" when they are nothing more than simple statements made to "relate" or "sympathize" with a generation who doesn't understand the church.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
How It Looks Is Not The Issue
When it comes to change, that's one area we all have a hard time coping with. No matter how much we say we like change, the truth is, when change affects us then we don't like it.
King David wanted to build God a Temple. God said David couldn't but would allow his son, Solomon, to do so. So David made all the preparations and plans for the place where people would gather to worship God.
Years later, Solomon, constructs the Temple. It was awesome to say the least, but it was different from previous ways "church" was done.
Up to that point, the only "church" they had experienced was the portable tent design given by God to Moses for the original tabernacle, however it was clear that Solomon's temple was approved by the Lord. The Lord Himself had given David the new plans, and David passed these plans on to Solomon. (1 Chronicles 28:11-19)
How much more must we remember that it's not what the church does and doesn't look like; lots of lights, smoke, coffee, loud music, organ, candles, video projector or hymnals is not the issue. The main question should always be, "Is God's presence there?"
Where His presence is, there is fullness of joy;* joy even with the changes.
*Psalms 16:11
King David wanted to build God a Temple. God said David couldn't but would allow his son, Solomon, to do so. So David made all the preparations and plans for the place where people would gather to worship God.
Years later, Solomon, constructs the Temple. It was awesome to say the least, but it was different from previous ways "church" was done.
Up to that point, the only "church" they had experienced was the portable tent design given by God to Moses for the original tabernacle, however it was clear that Solomon's temple was approved by the Lord. The Lord Himself had given David the new plans, and David passed these plans on to Solomon. (1 Chronicles 28:11-19)
How much more must we remember that it's not what the church does and doesn't look like; lots of lights, smoke, coffee, loud music, organ, candles, video projector or hymnals is not the issue. The main question should always be, "Is God's presence there?"
Where His presence is, there is fullness of joy;* joy even with the changes.
*Psalms 16:11
Monday, September 13, 2010
Small Groups --Part 3
7) Don't confuse natural by-product as the purpose.
Oil is one of those natural resources that would be almost impossible to live without. Not only does it lubricate our gears and provide gas but it also makes a total slew of other things. Plastic bottles, diapers, fishing line, nylon, cosmetics, pills, candles, the list goes on and on.
Here's my point. You never hear an oil worker say, "Time to go drill for some golf balls" or any other "by-product" made from oil. The purpose for drilling is oil, so that's what they drill for.
I believe the same can be applied for small groups. When I ask, "what is the purpose of the small group" I get the same answers; fellowship, accountability, care, community, friendships, bible study, etc.
Let me interject and say, there is nothing wrong with any of those answers; here me, what I am saying is that those things should be a natural by-product of Christians meeting together. Right?
Sure you should promote those things and live out those things, but they shouldn't be the purpose. (at least in my opinion. My vote for small group purpose is Kingdom; which means making disciples and multiplying)
It's kind of like when a company or church makes a list of "core values" and hang them on the wall. You've seen them; "We are a company that values, Integrity, Honesty, Character, Teamwork, etc"
The problem is not the values, it's just their kind of......well....they're......just there.
Typically those values are gathered by looking around at the group and saying, "yes that's who we are."
I love how Patrick Lencioni put it in his book, "The 3 Big Questions for a Frantic Family." He states, "The key about core values is not to have too many of them. Organizations tend to compile a list of things they think sound nice....because they want to cover all their bases. Many times those things are simply a permission to play value, not the core"
He's right! What company or church wants a dishonest employee or church member? How about lacks character? Doesn't play well with others? See, those are givens or like he says, "permission to play.'
Here are 6 questions that will help as you develop and launch or even relaunch your small group ministry.
1.) What is the ultimate reason you have small groups? (core purpose)
2.) What are the essential characteristics that your small group must never violate? (core values)
3.) What are the fruits you want to see displayed in the small group? (by-products)
4.) When your group meets, what is it's biggest priority and what needs to be done to achieve it? (goals)
5.) What steps are in place to help you achieve your core purpose as a group? (strategy)
6.) Who has to do what to achieve your goals? (roles and responsibilities)
I hope you enjoyed these last three posts on Small Groups. Be blessed and be fruitful and multiply!
Oil is one of those natural resources that would be almost impossible to live without. Not only does it lubricate our gears and provide gas but it also makes a total slew of other things. Plastic bottles, diapers, fishing line, nylon, cosmetics, pills, candles, the list goes on and on.
Here's my point. You never hear an oil worker say, "Time to go drill for some golf balls" or any other "by-product" made from oil. The purpose for drilling is oil, so that's what they drill for.
I believe the same can be applied for small groups. When I ask, "what is the purpose of the small group" I get the same answers; fellowship, accountability, care, community, friendships, bible study, etc.
Let me interject and say, there is nothing wrong with any of those answers; here me, what I am saying is that those things should be a natural by-product of Christians meeting together. Right?
Sure you should promote those things and live out those things, but they shouldn't be the purpose. (at least in my opinion. My vote for small group purpose is Kingdom; which means making disciples and multiplying)
It's kind of like when a company or church makes a list of "core values" and hang them on the wall. You've seen them; "We are a company that values, Integrity, Honesty, Character, Teamwork, etc"
The problem is not the values, it's just their kind of......well....they're......just there.
Typically those values are gathered by looking around at the group and saying, "yes that's who we are."
I love how Patrick Lencioni put it in his book, "The 3 Big Questions for a Frantic Family." He states, "The key about core values is not to have too many of them. Organizations tend to compile a list of things they think sound nice....because they want to cover all their bases. Many times those things are simply a permission to play value, not the core"
He's right! What company or church wants a dishonest employee or church member? How about lacks character? Doesn't play well with others? See, those are givens or like he says, "permission to play.'
Here are 6 questions that will help as you develop and launch or even relaunch your small group ministry.
1.) What is the ultimate reason you have small groups? (core purpose)
2.) What are the essential characteristics that your small group must never violate? (core values)
3.) What are the fruits you want to see displayed in the small group? (by-products)
4.) When your group meets, what is it's biggest priority and what needs to be done to achieve it? (goals)
5.) What steps are in place to help you achieve your core purpose as a group? (strategy)
6.) Who has to do what to achieve your goals? (roles and responsibilities)
I hope you enjoyed these last three posts on Small Groups. Be blessed and be fruitful and multiply!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Learning from a Master
Sports legend John Wooden died at age 99 this week.
To be honest, he was more than just a sports legend, he was really a life legend.
Character.
Honesty.
Fortitude
Truth.
Poise.
Loyalty.
Enthusiasm, just to name a few.
"John Wooden was a very religious man and in some ways he treated the game religiously."--William Nack
Of all the wonderful things that have been said about this great man, there was one thing in particular that stood out to me that I think we all in life, especially those of in ministry, can glean and learn from.
In an article, one of Coach Wooden's former assistant coaches made this statement, "Coach Wooden never talked about winning. Instead he told us (coaching staff) "we must master three things: 1. Get them in shape 2. Teach them the basics 3. Teach them to play together."
I find this amazing, especially when so much strife in the church world has to do with "winning."
Get them in shape.
Teach the basics.
Teach how to play well together.
So many of life's issues, both good and bad, have to do with faith. Can we trust God to get us through? What if He doesn't? Why do bad things happen to good people? Or for that matter, why do good things happen to bad people? You can tell if a person is in spiritual shape not by how much they worship or attend church, but how they handle life when things don't work out the way they thought they should.
Is your faith in shape?
As I watched game two in the Laker's VS Celtics NBA Playoffs I witnessed a classic rebound and point conversion because of knowing the basics. It was so inspiring that the announcers kept going back to it during breaks in the game.
If Jesus was a basketball coach I'm pretty sure He would teach the basics over and over. He would be saying to the team, "take care of the basics and you'll achieve the national championship." Or in KJV, "take care of the small things and you'll be ruler over much".
In youth ministry we tried to teach our teens the simple HABITS: Hang time with God, Accountability, Bible memorization, Involvement in church, Tithe, and Service.
The basics are what keep you healthy and produce unwavering hope.
Is your hope grounded?
Teach them how to play well together. Wow! Need I say more?
I will say this: I, like many others, have experienced a "church breakup" (to use polite terms). And one of the biggest questions that arises in that time of healing is, "did I miss God?" After all I pretty sure every minister--including myself--believes the same thing when they go on staff or start attending a church. And that is "God called me here". I won't dispute that.
So what do you do when man calls you away from there?
My vote: leave. I know that sounds harsh and ungodly, but hear me out. Because if you argue from the standpoint of "God called me to this area and we're staying" then what you might as well be saying is, "God thinks the greatest way to reproduce churches is by the way of dysfunction and church splitting."
It would be as if God is up in heaven saying, "you know we could use more churches in that area, I'm going to send Vince to that church because one day they will kick him out and he'll church plant in that same area and then we'll have more churches there!" God then leans over and gives Jesus a high five.
Here is what I've found out during my short time on planet Earth. God gave us all brains to be able to figure some things out on our own. Some things are just highly probable. It's highly probable that a church split is going to do more lasting damage for many years than it will start to do good. If there is a chance that you two can't play well together, go to a different sandbox. Jesus said "if at all possible live peaceable with everyone." Which tells me for some that just won't be possible.
Now I know that sounds really rough and I've probably offended some, if I haven't offended you, just wait your turn I'll get to you; I'm an equally opportunity offender. *wink and smile*
I in no way am questioning what God did or did not tell you, but I've been around the block enough to know sometimes it can be good and people can play well together and sometimes it's just us wanting our way and using whatever scripture and justification to get it. Because the two are sometimes hard to tell apart, that is where accountability comes into play. Because if you submit to someone and they tell you "no" when you feel God told you "yes" then you are not held accountable, they are. Honestly there are too many scripture references to put in this one because the Bible says it from start to finish.
It's a basic in life that will help you love others and play well.
Oh, and how do you know if you're accountable and doing what you should? A timeless key is, "How do you respond when those over you tell you something you don't want to hear? Defensive or offended or quick to respond with a list of why they are wrong? Or do you do what they say with humility and with honor towards them?
How's your love level?
When I hear Coach Wooden say, "Get them in shape, teach them the basics and train them to play well together", I hear the Apostle Paul echo the heartbeat of God by saying, "Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:13
To be honest, he was more than just a sports legend, he was really a life legend.
Character.
Honesty.
Fortitude
Truth.
Poise.
Loyalty.
Enthusiasm, just to name a few.
"John Wooden was a very religious man and in some ways he treated the game religiously."--William Nack
Of all the wonderful things that have been said about this great man, there was one thing in particular that stood out to me that I think we all in life, especially those of in ministry, can glean and learn from.
In an article, one of Coach Wooden's former assistant coaches made this statement, "Coach Wooden never talked about winning. Instead he told us (coaching staff) "we must master three things: 1. Get them in shape 2. Teach them the basics 3. Teach them to play together."
I find this amazing, especially when so much strife in the church world has to do with "winning."
Get them in shape.
Teach the basics.
Teach how to play well together.
So many of life's issues, both good and bad, have to do with faith. Can we trust God to get us through? What if He doesn't? Why do bad things happen to good people? Or for that matter, why do good things happen to bad people? You can tell if a person is in spiritual shape not by how much they worship or attend church, but how they handle life when things don't work out the way they thought they should.
Is your faith in shape?
As I watched game two in the Laker's VS Celtics NBA Playoffs I witnessed a classic rebound and point conversion because of knowing the basics. It was so inspiring that the announcers kept going back to it during breaks in the game.
If Jesus was a basketball coach I'm pretty sure He would teach the basics over and over. He would be saying to the team, "take care of the basics and you'll achieve the national championship." Or in KJV, "take care of the small things and you'll be ruler over much".
In youth ministry we tried to teach our teens the simple HABITS: Hang time with God, Accountability, Bible memorization, Involvement in church, Tithe, and Service.
The basics are what keep you healthy and produce unwavering hope.
Is your hope grounded?
Teach them how to play well together. Wow! Need I say more?
I will say this: I, like many others, have experienced a "church breakup" (to use polite terms). And one of the biggest questions that arises in that time of healing is, "did I miss God?" After all I pretty sure every minister--including myself--believes the same thing when they go on staff or start attending a church. And that is "God called me here". I won't dispute that.
So what do you do when man calls you away from there?
My vote: leave. I know that sounds harsh and ungodly, but hear me out. Because if you argue from the standpoint of "God called me to this area and we're staying" then what you might as well be saying is, "God thinks the greatest way to reproduce churches is by the way of dysfunction and church splitting."
It would be as if God is up in heaven saying, "you know we could use more churches in that area, I'm going to send Vince to that church because one day they will kick him out and he'll church plant in that same area and then we'll have more churches there!" God then leans over and gives Jesus a high five.
Here is what I've found out during my short time on planet Earth. God gave us all brains to be able to figure some things out on our own. Some things are just highly probable. It's highly probable that a church split is going to do more lasting damage for many years than it will start to do good. If there is a chance that you two can't play well together, go to a different sandbox. Jesus said "if at all possible live peaceable with everyone." Which tells me for some that just won't be possible.
Now I know that sounds really rough and I've probably offended some, if I haven't offended you, just wait your turn I'll get to you; I'm an equally opportunity offender. *wink and smile*
I in no way am questioning what God did or did not tell you, but I've been around the block enough to know sometimes it can be good and people can play well together and sometimes it's just us wanting our way and using whatever scripture and justification to get it. Because the two are sometimes hard to tell apart, that is where accountability comes into play. Because if you submit to someone and they tell you "no" when you feel God told you "yes" then you are not held accountable, they are. Honestly there are too many scripture references to put in this one because the Bible says it from start to finish.
It's a basic in life that will help you love others and play well.
Oh, and how do you know if you're accountable and doing what you should? A timeless key is, "How do you respond when those over you tell you something you don't want to hear? Defensive or offended or quick to respond with a list of why they are wrong? Or do you do what they say with humility and with honor towards them?
How's your love level?
When I hear Coach Wooden say, "Get them in shape, teach them the basics and train them to play well together", I hear the Apostle Paul echo the heartbeat of God by saying, "Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:13
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Covenant Communities
Creating community in a church is a much greater challenge than running programs, and most of the problems we face in the church are the result of broken relationships and lack of community.
As we see a new type of church leader emerging; authentic community will become one of the primary standards by which church health will be measured, rather than church size or the number of quality of specific ministry programs.
So the question quickly comes up, "what is authentic community?"
Someone best described it as "real people, in real relationships being real, all the time."
I simply call it, entering into covenant.
Rick Warren has said there are four levels of relationships that people engage into.
The first and most shallowest is Studying together, then
Sharing together, then
Serving together and finally
Suffering together.
This type of community is difficult, messy and sometimes impossible. But it starts with a willingness to engage in time frames that don't fall into the normal "meeting time."
Those that are living at a deeper level of community constantly find themselves with each other in homes, coffee shops or anywhere on almost a daily basis; it's deeper than a "Tweet" or "Facebook" wall post.
Are you engaging into authentic relationships and creating covenant communities?
Am I?
As we see a new type of church leader emerging; authentic community will become one of the primary standards by which church health will be measured, rather than church size or the number of quality of specific ministry programs.
So the question quickly comes up, "what is authentic community?"
Someone best described it as "real people, in real relationships being real, all the time."
I simply call it, entering into covenant.
Rick Warren has said there are four levels of relationships that people engage into.
The first and most shallowest is Studying together, then
Sharing together, then
Serving together and finally
Suffering together.
This type of community is difficult, messy and sometimes impossible. But it starts with a willingness to engage in time frames that don't fall into the normal "meeting time."
Those that are living at a deeper level of community constantly find themselves with each other in homes, coffee shops or anywhere on almost a daily basis; it's deeper than a "Tweet" or "Facebook" wall post.
Are you engaging into authentic relationships and creating covenant communities?
Am I?
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Outside the Apple Box Thinkers
Today my family and I enjoyed a wonderful time at the "Apple Festival" in Lincoln, AR. It was about an hour away from where we live; and with clear skies and the weather resting at 68, it was perfect.
There's a question I had pop into my head over and over again as we passed the many display tables. Here it is.
"As a Pastor of a church, what would I do here to stand out from the rest of the booths, to be a blessing to people?"
I say this because I saw two, maybe three church booths that were there. They were selling things. One even had a little basketball hoop set up for kids to play.
So if you would, send my your thoughts on what would be a blessing to people in this type of setting while helping to set a positive image for the church and it's members.
I'm asking for "out of the box" suggestions because I do not consider selling items as a way of accomplishing the goal. (My opinion, not saying it's right or wrong; just not my way of thinking)
*Please note, I am not a Pastor of a church-----not yet ;)
There's a question I had pop into my head over and over again as we passed the many display tables. Here it is.
"As a Pastor of a church, what would I do here to stand out from the rest of the booths, to be a blessing to people?"
I say this because I saw two, maybe three church booths that were there. They were selling things. One even had a little basketball hoop set up for kids to play.
So if you would, send my your thoughts on what would be a blessing to people in this type of setting while helping to set a positive image for the church and it's members.
I'm asking for "out of the box" suggestions because I do not consider selling items as a way of accomplishing the goal. (My opinion, not saying it's right or wrong; just not my way of thinking)
*Please note, I am not a Pastor of a church-----not yet ;)
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Props to Brad
So here I am looking at my blog thinking of what to type when my friend, Brad Post, just posted his blog thoughts.
Several weeks ago I wrote about the difference between "membership and partnership"; Brad's post particularly caught my attention because it reflects some great thoughts concerning the heart of honor.
I met Brad online through blogging and got to meet him and his family in person a couple of months ago when they were traveling from Atlanta to Oklahoma. They were kind enough to make a pit stop in Alma, AR so we could connect.
Check him out on Facebook, his blog, or follow him on Twitter.
Below is his post. I hope you enjoy his blog as much as I do.
Welcome VS Honor
I shared this with our Welcome Team this morning from Turning Point Church at our VIP meeting which was inspired from a conversation I had earlier this week with Larry Brey from Elevation Church from a blog he posted. It covers the difference between welcoming someone and honoring them. This would relate to anyone in church, in business and at the house.
There is a huge difference when we welcome someone into our house, church or business and honor them. Welcoming is great and people feel a sense of security but honoring someone is totally different.
The difference in our Welcome Team:
• For our Greeters: is not just handing them a bulletin and saying welcome but if it is their first time and they have children walk them to the children’s check in, talk with them during the process.
• For our Parking Team: it is a difference from just waving at them and actually opening the door with them.
• For our Ushers and Sanctuary Greeters: it is a difference in saying showing them where the coffee is and making it for them or showing them an open seat and actually taking them to it.
Try this phrase when you see a client, friend or co-worker this week, “It is an honor to see you today.” There is such a greater impact than saying anything else. I used this a few times this Sunday and had a few people look at me like “wow” or they were just looking at me like I was crazy..one of the two.
Several weeks ago I wrote about the difference between "membership and partnership"; Brad's post particularly caught my attention because it reflects some great thoughts concerning the heart of honor.
I met Brad online through blogging and got to meet him and his family in person a couple of months ago when they were traveling from Atlanta to Oklahoma. They were kind enough to make a pit stop in Alma, AR so we could connect.
Check him out on Facebook, his blog, or follow him on Twitter.
Below is his post. I hope you enjoy his blog as much as I do.
Welcome VS Honor
I shared this with our Welcome Team this morning from Turning Point Church at our VIP meeting which was inspired from a conversation I had earlier this week with Larry Brey from Elevation Church from a blog he posted. It covers the difference between welcoming someone and honoring them. This would relate to anyone in church, in business and at the house.
There is a huge difference when we welcome someone into our house, church or business and honor them. Welcoming is great and people feel a sense of security but honoring someone is totally different.
The difference in our Welcome Team:
• For our Greeters: is not just handing them a bulletin and saying welcome but if it is their first time and they have children walk them to the children’s check in, talk with them during the process.
• For our Parking Team: it is a difference from just waving at them and actually opening the door with them.
• For our Ushers and Sanctuary Greeters: it is a difference in saying showing them where the coffee is and making it for them or showing them an open seat and actually taking them to it.
Try this phrase when you see a client, friend or co-worker this week, “It is an honor to see you today.” There is such a greater impact than saying anything else. I used this a few times this Sunday and had a few people look at me like “wow” or they were just looking at me like I was crazy..one of the two.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Membership VS. Partnership
I was at Starbucks with my wife and while we sat and sipped away; I picked up a "Starbucks Gold" card application form. Starbucks has a "membership" program. Pay them a yearly fee and get certain perks. It's nothing new, tons of stores offer this type of program to already paying customers.
Some business, in fact however, won't even let you be a customer without a membership.
Blockbuster video,
Sam's Club,
Anytime Fitness gym are a few I've had in my life
Membership seems to be defined as, "pay a fee and receive benefits from our services."
I dare to say this mentality has spilled over into most churches; after all, every church has a membership.
Membership is referred to when answering the famous "how many" question.
It usually goes something like this: So, how many do you have in the church?" "Well we have about 600 members."
But the actual attendance is around 250.
Membership invites a mental understanding that because "I pay, I should get."
I say all this not to poke fun or degrade churches.
I say all this to encourage a change in our view of church attendees.
I'm not interested in doing things because that's how we always did them. So I throw out this simple thought.
Instead of offering "Church Membership" how about "Church Partnership"
Partnership says, "no matter the cost, I'm committed to the vision of this organization."
Partnership goes way beyond dropping your dues into a plate or clocking in your time at the front door.
Partnership is an understanding that it's not about me and it's not about you; it's about them. Those who don't know Christ.
Now if you're reading this and say, "hey, Vince! What you said about partnership is the exact same thing we have as our membership at church."
Great! I say. But remember that's not what our culture and people in our church understand for the most part.
Think about creating a "Church Partnership" mentality in your ministry and watch what happens.
Some business, in fact however, won't even let you be a customer without a membership.
Blockbuster video,
Sam's Club,
Anytime Fitness gym are a few I've had in my life
Membership seems to be defined as, "pay a fee and receive benefits from our services."
I dare to say this mentality has spilled over into most churches; after all, every church has a membership.
Membership is referred to when answering the famous "how many" question.
It usually goes something like this: So, how many do you have in the church?" "Well we have about 600 members."
But the actual attendance is around 250.
Membership invites a mental understanding that because "I pay, I should get."
I say all this not to poke fun or degrade churches.
I say all this to encourage a change in our view of church attendees.
I'm not interested in doing things because that's how we always did them. So I throw out this simple thought.
Instead of offering "Church Membership" how about "Church Partnership"
Partnership says, "no matter the cost, I'm committed to the vision of this organization."
Partnership goes way beyond dropping your dues into a plate or clocking in your time at the front door.
Partnership is an understanding that it's not about me and it's not about you; it's about them. Those who don't know Christ.
Now if you're reading this and say, "hey, Vince! What you said about partnership is the exact same thing we have as our membership at church."
Great! I say. But remember that's not what our culture and people in our church understand for the most part.
Think about creating a "Church Partnership" mentality in your ministry and watch what happens.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Thoughts from the Week
I just got back from the Indiana area where I spent a great week in ministry.
Friday I spent some one on one time with leaders from XENOX Industries and taught some sessions on youth leadership. Saturday night I spoke to the entire youth ministry and had an awesome time in the presence of God.
Sunday morning was an experience in it's self. It was one of those moments in time when God gives a direct word and confirms it in different ways.
I particular enjoyed my time with Pastor Gibson. There was an instant connection I felt in my spirit with him and the members of Charity Tabernacle.
I could feel months worth of "crud" flake off and a new brokenness as I ministered Sunday morning.
This trip was more than just getting to minister, but it was a week getting to connect with Pastors and pick their brain concerning pastoring.
As I sift through the feelings, information and desires in my heart; I know one thing is a must---
get input from others!
At this point in my life, I don't know if I'm to start a new work, or take over an existing work....but I do know this; it will be pastoring. So, I continue my journey.
Here are some thoughts that I picked up from a couple of pastors, as well as my own thoughts, while traveling last week. Thank you pastors David Gibson and Dehner Maurer for your time.
"I don't ever believe it's God's will to start a church by proselyting other church members."--Vince
"Whatever you do; there will always be a price to pay." --Pastor David Gibson
"The best staff is the one you enjoy doing life together with."--Pastor Dehner Maurer
"Commitment and vision is key, and commitment to the vision is a must"--Vince
"When I think of churches doing plays, I often think, who left it up to the church to handle the entertainment department?!?"--Pastor David Gibson
"You can talk about being a multi-culture church, but if you are----it will show up first in your congregation, be evident in your leadership teams, and in plain sight on your staff." --Dehner Maurer
Friday I spent some one on one time with leaders from XENOX Industries and taught some sessions on youth leadership. Saturday night I spoke to the entire youth ministry and had an awesome time in the presence of God.
Sunday morning was an experience in it's self. It was one of those moments in time when God gives a direct word and confirms it in different ways.
I particular enjoyed my time with Pastor Gibson. There was an instant connection I felt in my spirit with him and the members of Charity Tabernacle.
I could feel months worth of "crud" flake off and a new brokenness as I ministered Sunday morning.
This trip was more than just getting to minister, but it was a week getting to connect with Pastors and pick their brain concerning pastoring.
As I sift through the feelings, information and desires in my heart; I know one thing is a must---
get input from others!
At this point in my life, I don't know if I'm to start a new work, or take over an existing work....but I do know this; it will be pastoring. So, I continue my journey.
Here are some thoughts that I picked up from a couple of pastors, as well as my own thoughts, while traveling last week. Thank you pastors David Gibson and Dehner Maurer for your time.
"I don't ever believe it's God's will to start a church by proselyting other church members."--Vince
"Whatever you do; there will always be a price to pay." --Pastor David Gibson
"The best staff is the one you enjoy doing life together with."--Pastor Dehner Maurer
"Commitment and vision is key, and commitment to the vision is a must"--Vince
"When I think of churches doing plays, I often think, who left it up to the church to handle the entertainment department?!?"--Pastor David Gibson
"You can talk about being a multi-culture church, but if you are----it will show up first in your congregation, be evident in your leadership teams, and in plain sight on your staff." --Dehner Maurer
Friday, July 31, 2009
Connecting the Dots
My son, who just turned four, loves the activity--connect the dots.
When he was younger the game was simple, with only ten dots for him to draw a line to one another to connect.
Now he's on the pages that have up to thirty dots for him to draw a line to connect.
And because he is our son, he has a double dose of "perfectionism." He get's real upset when he realizes that he went the wrong way and connected the wrong dot.
But you should see him when he connects them all properly.
He comes running to me to show off his work of art.
That's awesome! As I take the wonderful picture from his hands to admire.
He beams with pride.
Our life should be a beautiful picture that we can run to God with and say, "look Dad!"
The devil knows this; it's why he tries so many times to get us to miss the dot moment.
What is a dot?
A dot, for us, is a moment in life when you or I have to make a choice or decision.
We choose wisely---a successful connection of the dot to another in our lives.
We choose poorly---we can get off track, make a bad testimony for ourselves; even do some serious damage to our lives, and more than likely we have to go back and retake that "dot moment"---because our heavenly Father loves us that much, He lets us "re-draw."
2 Peter 1:5-9 (NKJV)
But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, 7 to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. 8 For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins.
Before I share what I believe are some great "connecting the dot" helpers, please note that the end of verse 9 echoes what is mentioned in the beginning of verse 5.
In a nutshell it tells us, "if you have been saved by grace because of Jesus Christ, then you should be growing in your faith. The elements that are listed, pay attention to and use them in partnership with the power of the Holy Spirit, already in work in you."
Here are three quick thoughts from this scripture that I believe will help us, "add to our faith" and successfully connect the dots in our Christian walk.
1. Practical Biblical Teaching: "But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge... " We need to be diligent to learn the Word of God. But not just so we can be a spiritual "know it all." But because it's a key to growing our faith. It's a compass to give direction when we're "on the dot" and need to know which way to go. Biblical knowledge works hand in hand with the Holy Spirit to help us make the proper decision.
2. Private Disciplines: "to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance," This is not my strongest area. However, I've noticed when I give special attention to the "things I don't want to do--but do them anyway" then it becomes easier and easier for me to do them and for me to do a better job at connecting the dots. There seems to be less mess and more beauty.
3. Providential Relationships: "to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. Upon doing some study into this verse, there seems to be some distinction between just "brotherly kindness" and "brother kindness love." In short, the latter is what Christ said the "second greatest commandment is like the first." This is the real rubber meets the road Christian living, but before you can get there you first have to have practiced a lifestyle of showing some "brotherly kindness" to those of like faith.
If you have siblings then you know the fighting is. It's probably why it hurts so much when it happens in the Church. But the point here is that you and I need fellow brothers and sisters that we love enough to be real, honest, loving, truthful, respectful, and compassionate towards; especially if we're to take that love to a word that does not know Him. Providential relationship is one that will always bring you closer to Christ; helps you connect the next dot, even if it hurts. Which means not every Christian friendship will be on that level, and that's okay, but you and I need the people in our life that know how to live "brotherly kindness."
Hope you enjoyed these thoughts and hope they help you when you find yourself on a dot and needing direction to make the next line a successful one. If you have any Biblical revelation on this subject, drop me a line, I'd love to here it.
I'm sharing this message in a couple of weeks to a wonderful youth ministry called, Ignited. God is doing amazing things in the church. Their youth are running around five hundred in weekly attendance and is filled with young men and women who love God and are making difference in their town.
Make beautiful pictures, connect the dots.
When he was younger the game was simple, with only ten dots for him to draw a line to one another to connect.
Now he's on the pages that have up to thirty dots for him to draw a line to connect.
And because he is our son, he has a double dose of "perfectionism." He get's real upset when he realizes that he went the wrong way and connected the wrong dot.
But you should see him when he connects them all properly.
He comes running to me to show off his work of art.
That's awesome! As I take the wonderful picture from his hands to admire.
He beams with pride.
Our life should be a beautiful picture that we can run to God with and say, "look Dad!"
The devil knows this; it's why he tries so many times to get us to miss the dot moment.
What is a dot?
A dot, for us, is a moment in life when you or I have to make a choice or decision.
We choose wisely---a successful connection of the dot to another in our lives.
We choose poorly---we can get off track, make a bad testimony for ourselves; even do some serious damage to our lives, and more than likely we have to go back and retake that "dot moment"---because our heavenly Father loves us that much, He lets us "re-draw."
2 Peter 1:5-9 (NKJV)
But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, 7 to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. 8 For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins.
Before I share what I believe are some great "connecting the dot" helpers, please note that the end of verse 9 echoes what is mentioned in the beginning of verse 5.
In a nutshell it tells us, "if you have been saved by grace because of Jesus Christ, then you should be growing in your faith. The elements that are listed, pay attention to and use them in partnership with the power of the Holy Spirit, already in work in you."
Here are three quick thoughts from this scripture that I believe will help us, "add to our faith" and successfully connect the dots in our Christian walk.
1. Practical Biblical Teaching: "But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge... " We need to be diligent to learn the Word of God. But not just so we can be a spiritual "know it all." But because it's a key to growing our faith. It's a compass to give direction when we're "on the dot" and need to know which way to go. Biblical knowledge works hand in hand with the Holy Spirit to help us make the proper decision.
2. Private Disciplines: "to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance," This is not my strongest area. However, I've noticed when I give special attention to the "things I don't want to do--but do them anyway" then it becomes easier and easier for me to do them and for me to do a better job at connecting the dots. There seems to be less mess and more beauty.
3. Providential Relationships: "to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. Upon doing some study into this verse, there seems to be some distinction between just "brotherly kindness" and "brother kindness love." In short, the latter is what Christ said the "second greatest commandment is like the first." This is the real rubber meets the road Christian living, but before you can get there you first have to have practiced a lifestyle of showing some "brotherly kindness" to those of like faith.
If you have siblings then you know the fighting is. It's probably why it hurts so much when it happens in the Church. But the point here is that you and I need fellow brothers and sisters that we love enough to be real, honest, loving, truthful, respectful, and compassionate towards; especially if we're to take that love to a word that does not know Him. Providential relationship is one that will always bring you closer to Christ; helps you connect the next dot, even if it hurts. Which means not every Christian friendship will be on that level, and that's okay, but you and I need the people in our life that know how to live "brotherly kindness."
Hope you enjoyed these thoughts and hope they help you when you find yourself on a dot and needing direction to make the next line a successful one. If you have any Biblical revelation on this subject, drop me a line, I'd love to here it.
I'm sharing this message in a couple of weeks to a wonderful youth ministry called, Ignited. God is doing amazing things in the church. Their youth are running around five hundred in weekly attendance and is filled with young men and women who love God and are making difference in their town.
Make beautiful pictures, connect the dots.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
The Difference
I'm here in Mexico, and tomorrow I get the honor to speak to hundreds of Pastors in the morning service.
The theme of the conference is called, "Making History." While at the same time there is a special service to honor my father-n-law, Dale Yerton, for his 40 years of ministry to Mexico.
Here is what I feel in my heart to share.
The Difference
I've always looked at my relationship with Dale as a Paul/Timothy relationship. He truly is more than just a spiritual father; however, it was when we were ministering in Peru together that the Pastor introduced us as "Moses and Joshua."
That phrase has echoed in my ears.
What could I say to a group of pastors who many have served for years in their churches, some just starting out?
What words do I pen to drive home the theme, "Making History"?
I've chosen to look at two major time frames in the life of Moses. When it comes to making history, Moses sure does take the top of the list. But the thing that I want to point is when he was first "called into ministry" and when he "exits the ministry."
Think about this: Moses was the first person ever called into full-time vocational ministry.
Many people up to this point loved God, lived for God, did great things for God; however Moses was the first who had the responsibility to "pastor" people.
Question: What will be the difference between you making history and watching history being made?
The Beginning
When called by God Moses gives five excuses or reasons why he can't be the one. We all do this. Each time God gives Moses the answer. I'll paraphrase, you can find this in Exodus 3 and 4.
1. Moses, Who am I?
God, You're the one I'm with.
2. Moses, Who are you?
God, I AM, so don't worry about it.
3. Moses, What if they don't believe.
God, I turn dead things alive, I'm not worried about unbelief.
4. Moses, I'm not adequate for the job.
God, are you saying I make poor choices?
5. Moses, Is there anyone else you could send?
God, I know the value of relationships, I'll give you a helper.
In the midst of all this, God asks Moses a question, "What is in your hand?" Moses responds, "a rod." After this God does a miracle.
Two things about this. 1. When God asks a question its not because He doesn't know the answer, and 2. God never does a miracle to "show off."
The rod represented 3 things about Moses: his identity, his income and his influence. It's as if God is saying, "Moses as long as you hold on to that which is in your hand it will remain dead, but if you give me your identity, your influence, your income, I'll make that thing that is dead, become alive."
It was after this Moses's staff is forever called, "The Rod of God."
The Difference? Will you hold on or will you give over?
The End
There is so much I write about this but I want to keep it short, so here I try. This happens in Numbers 27:12.
God tells Moses, "your purpose in live will be completed, even though you won't get to go into the promise land, your people will. You're going to die here, they will enter the land."
Point---When a man of God dies, the plans of God do not.
We all leave some day. It may be by death, resignation, firing, etc. The plans of God will continue after we're gone. So who (to pastors) are you going to hand the torch to?
Moses only has two requests, (found in verse 16-17) 1. God you decide who it should be. It's amazing that Moses didn't bring a list and say, "here are some that I've been looking at, what do you think?" He simply says, "God whoever you want, I want." 2. "Let him be a person with the people." Someone who is a people person, good with people, someone who doesn't shy away from being there in the midst of the people." It's not to say that administration skills or teaching, preaching skills aren't needed but it's not the main thing.
God tells him it will be, Joshua.
Why Joshua? What's the difference between Joshua and anyone else. Up to this point only two were qualified, Caleb and Joshua. (ten spy ordeal) But we see that it was Joshua that served Moses from his youth. Joshua knew the heart of Moses and had been with Moses as an armor bearer. I think this has great significance in the Kingdom.
I think it's the difference worth paying attention to.
Footnote: This is in my heart, I see it in scripture, I think it's one of the greatest mistakes we as leaders/pastors and young leaders make. There is a difference between success and significance. Pastors you must think beyond your years. I thank God for Willy George in waking up a church in the 90's with the understanding of "turning the hearts of the father to the children" youth movement. But it must not end there. We need some spiritual fathers turning their heart to some spiritual sons and let God pick who its going to be after you're gone.
For those of you who know me, you know I enter a lot of "youtube" video contest. I got a rude awakening with one of the contest. In the detail entry it said, "if you're old, you can't enter." I laughed and clicked on it, to discover no one over the age of 25 was allowed to enter. Now I'm 33 and not old, but you know what? Yea! Probably some truth in there.
If you're a Pastor in your 30's, now is the time to start fathering as many as you can.
If you're a Pastor in your 40's, it's not to late, but you do have one day less than you did yesterday!
If you're in your 50's, and your not fathering, shame on you because you're not seeing the big picture. You think you're in your prime, and you're not. (don't confuse prime with relevant)
If you're in your 60's and your just starting the process----you're probably just looking for someone to keep doing what you did. Keep everyone happy, don't rock the boat, after all you've been successful---keep the success going, right? Nope, here's a truth, your predecessor will most always be different than you. (and that's good)
Past this, you should be enjoying watching your sons and grandsons in the church lead.
(ok, think I've offended everyone with the above, so I'm done now)
The theme of the conference is called, "Making History." While at the same time there is a special service to honor my father-n-law, Dale Yerton, for his 40 years of ministry to Mexico.
Here is what I feel in my heart to share.
The Difference
I've always looked at my relationship with Dale as a Paul/Timothy relationship. He truly is more than just a spiritual father; however, it was when we were ministering in Peru together that the Pastor introduced us as "Moses and Joshua."
That phrase has echoed in my ears.
What could I say to a group of pastors who many have served for years in their churches, some just starting out?
What words do I pen to drive home the theme, "Making History"?
I've chosen to look at two major time frames in the life of Moses. When it comes to making history, Moses sure does take the top of the list. But the thing that I want to point is when he was first "called into ministry" and when he "exits the ministry."
Think about this: Moses was the first person ever called into full-time vocational ministry.
Many people up to this point loved God, lived for God, did great things for God; however Moses was the first who had the responsibility to "pastor" people.
Question: What will be the difference between you making history and watching history being made?
The Beginning
When called by God Moses gives five excuses or reasons why he can't be the one. We all do this. Each time God gives Moses the answer. I'll paraphrase, you can find this in Exodus 3 and 4.
1. Moses, Who am I?
God, You're the one I'm with.
2. Moses, Who are you?
God, I AM, so don't worry about it.
3. Moses, What if they don't believe.
God, I turn dead things alive, I'm not worried about unbelief.
4. Moses, I'm not adequate for the job.
God, are you saying I make poor choices?
5. Moses, Is there anyone else you could send?
God, I know the value of relationships, I'll give you a helper.
In the midst of all this, God asks Moses a question, "What is in your hand?" Moses responds, "a rod." After this God does a miracle.
Two things about this. 1. When God asks a question its not because He doesn't know the answer, and 2. God never does a miracle to "show off."
The rod represented 3 things about Moses: his identity, his income and his influence. It's as if God is saying, "Moses as long as you hold on to that which is in your hand it will remain dead, but if you give me your identity, your influence, your income, I'll make that thing that is dead, become alive."
It was after this Moses's staff is forever called, "The Rod of God."
The Difference? Will you hold on or will you give over?
The End
There is so much I write about this but I want to keep it short, so here I try. This happens in Numbers 27:12.
God tells Moses, "your purpose in live will be completed, even though you won't get to go into the promise land, your people will. You're going to die here, they will enter the land."
Point---When a man of God dies, the plans of God do not.
We all leave some day. It may be by death, resignation, firing, etc. The plans of God will continue after we're gone. So who (to pastors) are you going to hand the torch to?
Moses only has two requests, (found in verse 16-17) 1. God you decide who it should be. It's amazing that Moses didn't bring a list and say, "here are some that I've been looking at, what do you think?" He simply says, "God whoever you want, I want." 2. "Let him be a person with the people." Someone who is a people person, good with people, someone who doesn't shy away from being there in the midst of the people." It's not to say that administration skills or teaching, preaching skills aren't needed but it's not the main thing.
God tells him it will be, Joshua.
Why Joshua? What's the difference between Joshua and anyone else. Up to this point only two were qualified, Caleb and Joshua. (ten spy ordeal) But we see that it was Joshua that served Moses from his youth. Joshua knew the heart of Moses and had been with Moses as an armor bearer. I think this has great significance in the Kingdom.
I think it's the difference worth paying attention to.
Footnote: This is in my heart, I see it in scripture, I think it's one of the greatest mistakes we as leaders/pastors and young leaders make. There is a difference between success and significance. Pastors you must think beyond your years. I thank God for Willy George in waking up a church in the 90's with the understanding of "turning the hearts of the father to the children" youth movement. But it must not end there. We need some spiritual fathers turning their heart to some spiritual sons and let God pick who its going to be after you're gone.
For those of you who know me, you know I enter a lot of "youtube" video contest. I got a rude awakening with one of the contest. In the detail entry it said, "if you're old, you can't enter." I laughed and clicked on it, to discover no one over the age of 25 was allowed to enter. Now I'm 33 and not old, but you know what? Yea! Probably some truth in there.
If you're a Pastor in your 30's, now is the time to start fathering as many as you can.
If you're a Pastor in your 40's, it's not to late, but you do have one day less than you did yesterday!
If you're in your 50's, and your not fathering, shame on you because you're not seeing the big picture. You think you're in your prime, and you're not. (don't confuse prime with relevant)
If you're in your 60's and your just starting the process----you're probably just looking for someone to keep doing what you did. Keep everyone happy, don't rock the boat, after all you've been successful---keep the success going, right? Nope, here's a truth, your predecessor will most always be different than you. (and that's good)
Past this, you should be enjoying watching your sons and grandsons in the church lead.
(ok, think I've offended everyone with the above, so I'm done now)
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Ummmm.....
I admit it.
I'm terrible at blogging.
My wife Lora, is awesome at blogging. She works hard at it. Reads and leaves comments on most of the ones she follows.
It's almost a full time job.
I keep up with several blogs, and try to be faithful in reading them. Commenting is another thing.
Some of the blogs I follow post every other day or so.
Some post daily!
I admire them all.
Me? I just post when I've got something worth saying.
And to be honest that's the scary thing about wanting to plant a church.
There's a part of me that thinks; "how in the world am I gonna come up with a message every week?" Clearly there are thousands of Pastors who do it and have done it for many, many years. I've spent eight years in ministry preaching weekly. Five of those eighty speaking about three times a week.
And there is my concern. I've been guilty of information overload.
I've often said, "the way pews got their name in church is by people sitting in them and soaking and then souring----pew!"
I look at things in life and think, "what things did you hear about the first time and got it, and started doing it right then?"--Honestly, not too many.
There's got to be a different way to "do" church in a way that reflects the personality of the leader. Right? Does every church have to be the same four song line up, shake hands, offering, preach, go home, repeat a few more times schedule?
I'm not calling for a church revolution....I'm simply asking, does a person have to fit that mold to become a pastor?
Discipleship is a process. One that I personally think can be done in a different way than what has been patterned for years. One I hope to be able to articulate the closer I get to launching a new church.
When? I don't know.
Where? I don't know.
But as God gives clear direction to His will, I do know this, it will be worth blogging about.
I'm terrible at blogging.
My wife Lora, is awesome at blogging. She works hard at it. Reads and leaves comments on most of the ones she follows.
It's almost a full time job.
I keep up with several blogs, and try to be faithful in reading them. Commenting is another thing.
Some of the blogs I follow post every other day or so.
Some post daily!
I admire them all.
Me? I just post when I've got something worth saying.
And to be honest that's the scary thing about wanting to plant a church.
There's a part of me that thinks; "how in the world am I gonna come up with a message every week?" Clearly there are thousands of Pastors who do it and have done it for many, many years. I've spent eight years in ministry preaching weekly. Five of those eighty speaking about three times a week.
And there is my concern. I've been guilty of information overload.
I've often said, "the way pews got their name in church is by people sitting in them and soaking and then souring----pew!"
I look at things in life and think, "what things did you hear about the first time and got it, and started doing it right then?"--Honestly, not too many.
There's got to be a different way to "do" church in a way that reflects the personality of the leader. Right? Does every church have to be the same four song line up, shake hands, offering, preach, go home, repeat a few more times schedule?
I'm not calling for a church revolution....I'm simply asking, does a person have to fit that mold to become a pastor?
Discipleship is a process. One that I personally think can be done in a different way than what has been patterned for years. One I hope to be able to articulate the closer I get to launching a new church.
When? I don't know.
Where? I don't know.
But as God gives clear direction to His will, I do know this, it will be worth blogging about.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Friday, July 3, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
The Power of One
When I was in the ninth grade, I heard a message called "The Power of One."
It focused on the contrast between two men. Adam and Jesus; found in Romans 5:12-17
The phrase "by one man" has stuck with me to this day.
By one man, sin entered the world.
By one man, salvation has come.
The power of one.
I had a most wonderful experience brought to me through the use of Facebook.
A young lady who was a year behind me in school took the time to find me on Facebook and send me a message. I'm deeply honored that she would do this, and I want to share it to encourage you in the same power that it encouraged me. The Power of One.
I have changed the name out of respect, it reads:
Hey, my name is Meg and we were at Southside together. You are a year above my graduating year...anyway. I just wanted to let you know that you made a huge impact in my life your Sr year. I accepted Christ at a See You At The Pole meeting that you were leading. Anyway, I just wanted to say thank you for being so on fire for God back then. I have now been faithfully serving God for about 14 years. Thanks for making a difference in the lives of those around you. God Bless.
To those who wonder is it worth it, to those who can't see past today. For those of you that were in one of the two youth ministries I had the privilege of pastoring, to those who heard me say time and time again, "if you fall, get back up and dust the dirt off and keep going. It's true.
Don't give up.
See past today.
Display grace in your actions.
Don't hold grudges.
Forgive.
Reach out.
Don't gossip.
Help others.
Encourage those who need it.
Love without expecting anything in return.
The power of one.
By one man sin entered the world.
By one man salvation came.
What type of person will you be?
You be the type of person who makes a difference.
To make a difference, you have to do things differently. Christianity today needs to look different than it does right now. For me, I'm going to be known for "what things I'm for" rather than "what things I'm against."
The power of one.
Will you join me?
It focused on the contrast between two men. Adam and Jesus; found in Romans 5:12-17
The phrase "by one man" has stuck with me to this day.
By one man, sin entered the world.
By one man, salvation has come.
The power of one.
I had a most wonderful experience brought to me through the use of Facebook.
A young lady who was a year behind me in school took the time to find me on Facebook and send me a message. I'm deeply honored that she would do this, and I want to share it to encourage you in the same power that it encouraged me. The Power of One.
I have changed the name out of respect, it reads:
Hey, my name is Meg and we were at Southside together. You are a year above my graduating year...anyway. I just wanted to let you know that you made a huge impact in my life your Sr year. I accepted Christ at a See You At The Pole meeting that you were leading. Anyway, I just wanted to say thank you for being so on fire for God back then. I have now been faithfully serving God for about 14 years. Thanks for making a difference in the lives of those around you. God Bless.
To those who wonder is it worth it, to those who can't see past today. For those of you that were in one of the two youth ministries I had the privilege of pastoring, to those who heard me say time and time again, "if you fall, get back up and dust the dirt off and keep going. It's true.
Don't give up.
See past today.
Display grace in your actions.
Don't hold grudges.
Forgive.
Reach out.
Don't gossip.
Help others.
Encourage those who need it.
Love without expecting anything in return.
The power of one.
By one man sin entered the world.
By one man salvation came.
What type of person will you be?
You be the type of person who makes a difference.
To make a difference, you have to do things differently. Christianity today needs to look different than it does right now. For me, I'm going to be known for "what things I'm for" rather than "what things I'm against."
The power of one.
Will you join me?
Monday, April 27, 2009
Inside Out
The Church.
It meets every week in a building.
It's encouraged to happen outside a building every week.
A few weeks ago, on the side of the road was a car in need of some jumper cables. I paused for a moment thinking like we all do, “I’ll be late for my meeting.” I texted my contact and decided to be late for the meeting, moments later the car was back on its way.
The Church happens everywhere.
I had the wonderful opportunity to speak at a church about a month ago where I gave an invitation for people to follow Christ. In the altar were people whose lives were being changed and hearts connected with God.
The Church happens everywhere.
Lately, a fantastic young man has opened his life to me and we’ve been having some great heart to heart talks. The openness and transparency he has displayed to me is quite an honor. I’ve had the opportunity to speak into his life and share some Biblical insight and help connect the dots between everyday living and biblical application.
The Church happens everywhere.
After speaking at a youth gathering, a parent came up to me afterwards and shared some struggles she and her husband have been going through in this rough economic time. She has been wrestling with some profound issues. Being able to speak life and encouragement and pray with her was one of the highlights of the evening. I could see the peace of God come into her life and her situation.
The Church happens everywhere.
My wife and I lead a small group of believers that is composed of people from several churches. When a couple in the group showed up with an important need, the group answered the call. When almost half of our group was affected with job loss, we all chipped in to make car payments, buy groceries, and do whatever we could for each other. A loving, passionate, giving community of believers.
The Church happens everywhere.
A few days ago, I received an email from a Youth Pastor in Dallas. I've never met the man and honestly have no idea how he got my contact information. In the email his heart called out for guidiance and a deep desire to connect with someone who could help him fulfill the call that God has put in his life. He is one of several I've had the awesome privilege of connecting with and getting to step into a new type of relationship with fellow members of the body.
The Church happens everywhere.
In the everyday experiences of life, if you look for it, church happens everywhere.
Many times the issue is we only see church in one location: a building; the reality is Jesus spent more time outside of the building and more time building the Church.
I encourage you to live your life with soul saving love.
Outside of the building and in the place where opportunities are everywhere.
It meets every week in a building.
It's encouraged to happen outside a building every week.
A few weeks ago, on the side of the road was a car in need of some jumper cables. I paused for a moment thinking like we all do, “I’ll be late for my meeting.” I texted my contact and decided to be late for the meeting, moments later the car was back on its way.
The Church happens everywhere.
I had the wonderful opportunity to speak at a church about a month ago where I gave an invitation for people to follow Christ. In the altar were people whose lives were being changed and hearts connected with God.
The Church happens everywhere.
Lately, a fantastic young man has opened his life to me and we’ve been having some great heart to heart talks. The openness and transparency he has displayed to me is quite an honor. I’ve had the opportunity to speak into his life and share some Biblical insight and help connect the dots between everyday living and biblical application.
The Church happens everywhere.
After speaking at a youth gathering, a parent came up to me afterwards and shared some struggles she and her husband have been going through in this rough economic time. She has been wrestling with some profound issues. Being able to speak life and encouragement and pray with her was one of the highlights of the evening. I could see the peace of God come into her life and her situation.
The Church happens everywhere.
My wife and I lead a small group of believers that is composed of people from several churches. When a couple in the group showed up with an important need, the group answered the call. When almost half of our group was affected with job loss, we all chipped in to make car payments, buy groceries, and do whatever we could for each other. A loving, passionate, giving community of believers.
The Church happens everywhere.
A few days ago, I received an email from a Youth Pastor in Dallas. I've never met the man and honestly have no idea how he got my contact information. In the email his heart called out for guidiance and a deep desire to connect with someone who could help him fulfill the call that God has put in his life. He is one of several I've had the awesome privilege of connecting with and getting to step into a new type of relationship with fellow members of the body.
The Church happens everywhere.
In the everyday experiences of life, if you look for it, church happens everywhere.
Many times the issue is we only see church in one location: a building; the reality is Jesus spent more time outside of the building and more time building the Church.
I encourage you to live your life with soul saving love.
Outside of the building and in the place where opportunities are everywhere.
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