things you've never heard a pastor say

stop the auto-formatting

2008-01-16T19:23:00.000-07:00

I cannot stand the auto-format function in Microsoft Word. I know that they created it with the intention of helping all of us compose better letters and create better presentation documents. It is supposed to anticipate what we "actually" want before we type it. It often seems to jump to conclusions with only a fraction of the information. I can type two lines and from that point forward my document is determined for me by the software. And undoing the auto-format can be as much of a pain as trying to utilize it.

So often in life, I believe that we jump into auto-format mode with God's plans. He starts one thing, and we often jump to the idea of "we know where He's going with this," and usually too soon. Our impatience sometimes pushes us to figure out what God is "really" trying to do, when He has only given us a fraction of the plan. Let me implore you, stop the auto-formatting. Don't make it more difficult for God to undo that which we did, jumping to a conclusion too soon. Let God compose your life with His beautiful style and flare and see what it becomes.

Grace & peace to you.
Tony

may you experience the JOY of being WINLESS!

2008-01-09T18:42:00.000-07:00

When I was in elementary school, I played little league. One year I was on the Braves! Our team colors were purple and I had two friends from school (twins in fact) who were on my team. Their dad was our coach and I was so excited about what promise the season held for us. As we finished our first game, with a loss, I still had fun playing with my friends in an "official" game. Next week's game arrived and departed without adding a point to our win column. Week three, another loss. Week four, five, and all but the last game, losses! We were winless. We couldn't win a game if our lives depended on it. Finally, the last week of games was upon us and we were playing the number one team in our division. They were undefeated. There was little hope of us squeaking out a win before we received our compulsory trophies. But the moon and stars were aligned, someone must have kissed the blarney stone for us, and God had mercy on the Braves. We won. We actually beat the undefeated team for our only win. We were so excited. But the amazing thing was, we didn't need that win to experience joy. Of course we loved ending the season beating the team that no one else could, but we just loved playing the game together (kinda like the Bad News Bears). The joy was in the playing. Now that's a novel thought. We need to remember that joy doesn't come from being victorious in our endeavors, but rather in the endeavors themselves. Getting there is really half the fun (actually more than half)!

NOTE: if you attend the RISING, this is similar to the preview that will appear on the RISING blog tomorrow. But go ahead and listen to it too, just because I took the time to make it. Or at least I'm going to. I'll try to give it a little something extra to make it more fun.

Tony

Are You Ready?

2007-12-31T10:44:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the first day of 2008, are you ready? It begins a new year that will be filled with new opportunities, are you ready? This year will bring some disappointments that you will have to overcome, are you ready? This could be the most difficult year of your life, or perhaps your best year ever, are you ready?

God is looking at this next year, and He wants to be a part of it. He sees what's coming around the corner, He knows what your spring is going to be like, He knows when the hurts will come and how excited you'll be when the blessings hit. And He longs to be a part of it all!

We have to position ourselves to receive God's blessing. We have to put forth effort and allow God to use that effort to open up new doors. The only effort God can't bless is the one you won't make! We have to position ourselves to withstand storms. We have to prepare for them and establish a foundation that cannot be moved. We need to be linked up with God for 2008. We Need Him!

So again I ask, are you ready?

Happy Holidays Eve!

2007-12-24T11:57:00.001-07:00

Sounds kinda dumb doesn't it. When I was a kid, everyone wished each other a Merry Christmas, just like the song says. Sometimes you'd hear "happy holidays" or "season's greetings" and they were not at all offensive. But I've found something different in today's society. As I went shopping a few days ago, not one store employee would wish me a Merry Christmas until I had said it first. They were all afraid of offending me, so they gave the generic "happy holidays" which actually is was offended me more. Why can't we speak what we believe without offending others? If I ran into a Jewish person who initially wishes me a happy Hanukkah, I have no reason to be offended. Just because I don't celebrate Hanukkah doesn't mean that I should be offended by kind words from someone who does. Shouldn't we all be allowed to bless one another according to our own beliefs and just accept the kindness?

So...MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!!

I WAS TOO BUSY YESTERDAY TO WRITE...

2007-12-18T10:13:00.000-07:00

my blog. We'll that's what I want to say so that you don't think I'm neglecting my commitment to write one every Monday. And if I go with that story, "I was too busy," then maybe you'll think that I'm just that important. Maybe you'll think that I'm so important that I have a day full of appointments and tasks that just have to be kept. 'Cause, if I'm busy, then I'm important. And the busier I am, the less available I am, then I must be that much more important. I mean, important people don't have time to just drop everything and get together with someone on the spur of the moment. Important people barely have time for others, right?

That's what our society tells us. That's what we are lead to believe. How busy you are is directly proportional to how important you are. Busy = important. Then, many of us interpret the opposite to be true that not busy, available = lazy or not important. Let me give you some truth that will hopefully set you free. Your schedule has nothing to do with how important you are. Your appointments don't determine your value. You are valued by God. You are worth His Son. Jesus didn't die for your schedule, but for you, and for those who know you and need you. Being available is exactly what Jesus was, and it is what we need to be. Clear out your schedule so that you have room to be available to others. Jesus didn't tell paralyzed man that he didn't have time to heal Him because He was preaching. Jesus didn't turn away the widow who's son just died, because he was on His way to His next appointment. And thank God He didn't turn down the cross because His weekend was too full.

MAKE YOURSELF AVAILABLE.

I WANNA SEE THE STOREHOUSES...

2007-12-10T21:45:00.000-07:00

Earlier today I was reading Job. The last few chapters are amazing. To hear God respond to Job with authority, with power, and with a bit of sarcasm, now that I can get on board with. In chapters 38-41, God's answer is awesome. I love the idea that he has a place where light lives and a place where darkness resides. To think of storehouse filled with snow, hail, or of places from where lightning or wind is dispersed. I know it's not literal, but is actually one of the most poetic sections of scripture. If you haven't read it recently, do so. Even without reading Job's complaint you will catch a glimpse of God's glory, and you'll most likely be a little humbled. Till next week...
Tony

BE WHERE YOU BELONG

2007-12-03T15:13:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt out of place? Like a new student in the middle of a semester who moved to a new school? Maybe at a party, where no one even knew you? Possibly at your own job? There are indeed places in our lives where we don't belong; places where we don't fit it. Yet all of us long for that feeling that we are in the right place, where we are supposed to be.

I just read the passage in Luke 2 when Jesus was found by his parents to be in the temple as a boy. After searching for him for quite a while, the discovered that he was with the religious leaders, in the temple. When questioned by Mary & Joseph about why he didn't stick with them, his response was simple. "Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house?" Or you could phrase it, "Didn't you know, this is where I belong?" Jesus knew that he belonged in God's house, with God's people. And I want to tell you, THAT'S WHERE YOU BELONG! God has designed us to need each other. We help each other through life. We celebrate with one another. We cry together. We teach each other and most of all, we love each other. That's what the church is for. That's why God gave us The Church. You may have a hard time finding a church in which you are comfortable. Sometimes, that's understandable, but sometimes it's just you being too picky. Find a church. Go to the temple. Connect with God's people.

TUNE OUT YOUR FAMILY...

2007-11-26T16:41:00.000-07:00

if they are the one's bringing you down. Today I read the story of Jephthah in Judges chapters 10 -12. He had some lousy siblings. Since he was a half-brother & the son of a prostitute, he was banished from the family. Sent away with the words, "You are not going to get any inheritance in our family." But as you read futher, you see that this very family comes to him and asks him to lead the Israelites against their enemy, the Ammonites. Jephthah takes some convincing because he took to heart the negativity. He received the insults and let the pain absorb into his spirit. But he was a mighty warrior and was born to lead, despite his heritage. Let me just encourage, if you feel like your heritage is less than glorious, you are not alone. You are the person God is looking for, to serve His Kingdom and to lead people to Him. Don't let the words of any man drag you down. Instead, hold tight to the words of God, "For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you; plans to give you a hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

until next week,
Tony

my apologies

2007-11-21T17:39:00.000-07:00

It is already Wednesday and I still haven't written a blog for this week. I'm sorry. Jen & I just moved over the weekend and are trying to get set-up for Thanksgiving with family here. That's my excuse. I'll have something new for you next Monday. Thanks for checking.
Tony

GET YOUR AX OUT OF THE WATER

2007-11-12T22:59:00.000-07:00

^{Do you think that God really cares about small things in our lives. Check out this story from 2 Kings6:1-7:}¹ The company of the prophets said to Elisha, "Look, the place where we meet with you is too small for us. ² Let us go to the Jordan, where each of us can get a pole; and let us build a place there for us to live." And he said, "Go."

³ Then one of them said, "Won't you please come with your servants?"
"I will," Elisha replied. ⁴ And he went with them. They went to the Jordan and began to cut down trees. ⁵ As one of them was cutting down a tree, the iron axhead fell into the water. "Oh, my lord," he cried out, "it was borrowed!"

⁶ The man of God asked, "Where did it fall?" When he showed him the place, Elisha cut a stick and threw it there, and made the iron float. ⁷ "Lift it out," he said. Then the man reached out his hand and took it.

The Prophet Elisha cared about the man's personal delima. He cared about the work getting done. But moreover, he cared about the reputation of God, which is built on the actions of His people. If we are flippant with our commitments to others, it reflects on God. If we fail to get the job done, it reflects on God. Remember that everywhere you go, in all you do, you are building His reputation!

AVOID "THE LOOK"

2007-11-05T16:10:00.000-07:00

Do you like to go look at model homes? How about walking around the dealership parking lot? I enjoy both. It's fun to look. And often times, that's all it is. We're "just looking" to see what's out there or to see the new model of our favorite car. But all to often, this looking stimulates an attitude of dissatisfaction. I've known people who buy a house, and within the first few months, go check out other homes and are soon anxious for a NEW house. I also know some people who buy a new car, financing it for 5 years, and in about 14 months, they'll start coming the dealerships and the car maker websites and soon get "the itch" to get something new. I've seen some trade in a car that is less then two years old, just because they couldn't tell themselves, "No," because they've began looking and have fueled their desires beyond their own control. I even just talked to a friend this week about someone he knows that is married, but is always looking at the women around him, looking for attractive women who might just "check him out." He's just asking for problems, because he's "looking."

If we could manage our "looking," our desires would become easier to control. Imagine if our desires were mild and we made decisions based on wisdom rather than on our immediate wants. We can actually nip temptation in the bud (or at least prevent it from running rampant) and help ourselves live better!

So join me in avoiding "the look!"

DON'T ASK JESUS TO HEAL YOU...

2007-10-29T13:57:00.000-07:00

In the book of Matthew, Jesus encounters two blind men. In chapter 9 verses 27-31 we have a record of the interaction. The two blind men follow Jesus, begging him to heal them. He asks them if they believe he is "able to" to it. They both say yes and Jesus says, "According to your faith, let it be done to you." And they were both healed immediately. There is indeed a big question as to how large a role does our faith play in Jesus ability to work miracles in our lives. But we'll save that for later (the month of November at the RISING).

Notice how after Jesus healed these men, he warns them to not tell anyone, but immediately they started spreading the news about Him. Now it's a difficult command that Jesus gives these two. They've been blind for who knows how long and of course they want to share their excitement of being healed with everyone. None the less, it was a direct command and they failed to follow it. One could say that these men were ready to embrace Jesus as their healer, but not yet as their LORD.

So I ask you, is Jesus only your healer? Are you ready to make him your master, whom you obey at all costs? That is what Jesus wants. He's not satisfied with just helping us through the hard times in life. He wants more than requests from us. He wants our hearts, humbled and ready to serve Him. If you're not ready for that, then I'd suggest that you don't ask Jesus to heal you.

DON'T LET JACK & THE BOX GET IN YOUR WAY!

2007-10-22T16:35:00.001-07:00

Today I was driving across town for an appointment. I was headed east, just south of the new Cardinal's Stadium ( I refuse to call it the University of Phoenix Stadium). As I'm driving across town, I often look for that GIGANTIC stadium to gauge how far I've traveled so far. At an intersection, I looked toward the north to see the stadium and I couldn't see it at all. It was nowhere to be found, almost like it had disappeared. As I started driving, I noticed it reappear out from behind the Jack & the Box that was right in front of me. I thought it was kinda funny that something as small as a fast food restaurant could actually block my view of such a large building.

It made me think. Sometimes in life, I believe we allow are immediate circumstances (which are temporary and small) to block our view of the GRAND things that lie ahead. When times are tough, don't loose faith and forget that great times lie ahead. Jesus came so that we can have life and have it to the full (John 10:10) and I believe that means that we'll experience lows and highs, hard times and times of plenty, days of pain and days of peace. So whatever you do, don't let the Jack & the Box get in your way!

WE DON'T NEED PEOPLE

2007-10-15T15:53:00.000-07:00

Today, I was reading John 2 where Jesus cleared the temple of those trying to make money by ripping off faithful believers. I've got the leadership Bible by John Maxwell with several insights into principles of leadership displayed in scripture. He noted that Jesus had courage to do the unpopular because He was serious about righteousness and pleasing God. "He could lead people, because he didn't need people." He was satisfied in pleasing His Father so He didn't have to worry about maintaining any popularity, instead He focused on doing what would please God.

As christians, we too can have the confidence that our calling is to please God. If at times that calling upsets men, we should make no apologies. May we live like we are called and experience the life God has planned for us!

CHURCH STICKERS vs. CHURCH PURPOSE

2007-10-08T22:30:00.000-07:00

Here in Arizona, there is a phenomenon of putting stickers on the rear window of your car that is a logo for the church you attend. I've talked with several people as to reasons why they put these stickers on their cars. I've heard three major reasons.

First, marketing. People want to increase the visibility of their church. They want people all around the valley to know that this church exists.

Second, a sense of belonging. People want to feel like a part of a group. They long to be a part of something bigger than themselves.

Third, they modify their behavior behind the wheel. With the sticker on their car, they carry the name of their church and want to give a positive representation of their church. I've heard many say that it actually helps them drive more friendly.

All of these reasons for stickers are actually the true purposes for the church's existence. The church should be marketing and increasing the visibility of Jesus in our modern world. We need to be the evidence for God's presence. The church is supposed to be a community of believers who share everything in common. Like the first church, we are all there for each other. And finally, the church should indeed be modifying the behavior of the people. We should feel inspired by the church to live a life worthy of the calling we have received. We are all children of the King (actually the King of Kings) and we should act like it. So go ahead and put that sticker on your car, but more importantly, be the actual church that God calls us to be.

OFFER YOUR RESIGNATION

2007-10-01T16:03:00.000-07:00

Do you know anyone who consistently plays the victim card? How about someone who's identity is wrapped up in how difficult their life is? Do you know "Debbie Downer" or "Bummer Bob?" If you do, be cautious. Cliches exist because they are generally true, and misery loves company. People who hold on to the victim card, will always need you to empathize. They will never stop expecting you to be their source of encouragement. They will time and again rely on you to keep their spirits up, while continuing to voice the "woe is me" attitude. They actually don't want life to be better, they want you to feel for them. Be careful, because as believers we are called by God to love and encourage one another, but we are not called to be enablers. We are not called to be spiritual medication to the chronically, intentionally ill. Don't be a part of that kind of company. And if you already are, the offer your resignation. Because there's a beautiful world out there that you're missing.

the RISING is coming

2007-09-25T06:41:00.001-07:00

the RISING is a new church that is focused on believers. We believe that the Church exists for the building up of believers. It is our goal to educate and inspire believers to live for Christ and to share their faith. If you don’t have a home church, if you’re looking to be challenged with “hard” truths from scripture, if you long for a deeper faith, join the RISING.

During the month of October we will be having foundational nights on Saturdays at 5 p.m. Then on November 4th, we will begin the RISING.

CARPOOL LANE OPENS AT 8:55?

2007-09-17T14:16:00.000-07:00

Living in Arizona, the carpool lanes are different than what I was used to in California. Here the lanes open to all drivers during certain times. A couple of weeks ago I was driving into town and it was 8:50. The signs say that the carpool lane opens to all at 9:00 a.m. Over the next 10 minutes the lane became progressively overcrowded with cars, most of which had only 1 occupant. I found it interesting that so many people thought "close enough" is OK. I guess they figured that the odds of being caught by a cop were slim.

But we are called to live at a higher standard. We are often tempted to live a life that is best described as "what can I get away with and still be saved?" We need to live above reproach. We need live as far away from the edge as possible and let our lives be filled with evidence of a relationship with Jesus. Let's stay out of the carpool lane until at least 5 minutes after 9:00. Let's raise the standard, and live up to it.

PUT ON THE COSTUME

2007-09-10T16:08:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen someone who is waiting for a job interview? Or maybe you can remember a time when you sat waiting to impress a potential employer. When you get ready for an interview, you want to dress to impress. Nice pants & shoes. A pressed button down shirt. A colorful tie. You look good. You look your best.

As you sit waiting to be called back, you notice that EVERYONE in the office is dressed much more casually. Its obvious to all who pass that you're the guy that hopes to work with them. You start to feel like you are sticking out like a sore thumb. You might as well be dressed in a clown costume with oversized shoes. You may start to feel kinda dumb.

The truth is, you shouldn't because you are giving it all you've got. It's not a sign of desperation, but a sign of commitment. When you are dressed better than everyone else, you're communicating the message of your willingness to do what it takes to accomplish your goals.

As Christians, we are often embarrassed to let others see us in our "faith costumes." We might shy away from praying in public. We might resist an opportunity to share about our church with a coworker. We don't want to be pegged as fanatical.

But the truth is, would shouldn't feel this way. We need to show everyone where our passion lies. We must tell others about the lengths we'll go to in order to share our faith and build God's Kingdom. So don't be shy...PUT ON THE COSTUME!

AM I STILL IN HIGH SCHOOL?

2007-09-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

Friday night I went to a local high school football game. It was the first game of the year at the school where my wife just started teaching. We got there in time for the first kickoff and took our seats about half way up in the stands.

For two hours we watched student after student strive and struggle to find a group to which they could belong. Clicks of friends were everywhere and there was a lot of socializing going on. We sat near the freshmen football team (wearing their white jerseys) and when a varsity player was injured, they all stood together in the stands. Then they went down onto the field. Groups of girls were running around socializing and many were concerned about being left behind from their specific group.

Then I remembered how in high school there is such a strong desire to belong. Kids want the security of being a part of group. They want the excitement of being a part of something bigger than they are. And I realized that I still want all of that.

Of course, I have more self-confidence than I did then. I better recognize people of good character with whom I then want to associate. But I still want the security of friends. I want the fun of being a part of something bigger than me. I want to belong. Don't you.

The good news is, we belong with God. "How great is the love the LORD has lavished on us that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!" I John 3:1

DUMB SPREADS

2007-08-27T11:25:00.000-07:00

Last week, I was talking with my wife about her job. She's a high school teacher and teaches mostly freshmen. She noticed an interesting phenomenon. When smart students sit next to "less smart" students, the smart ones seem to lose their smartness. Like a lack of intelligence is contagiuos. She decided to title the phenomenon - DUMB SPREADS.

This principle is true in our spiritual lives as well. We need to be careful with whom we most often associate. Of course, we need to reach out to the spiritually blind and love the lost, but give equal time to those who build you up. We need to work hard at increasing our time with those that increase our faith. Remember, as iron sharpens iron (Prov. 27:17). Let's do what we can to end the spiritual spreading of dumb.

IS THIS ALL THERE IS?

2007-08-20T14:45:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel like there should be more to this life? More of the good times? More of the days filled with purpose and value? More of those moments of euphoria? More seasons of success? More beauty? More joy? More peace? More love?

These are the days to which God has called us. Jesus told us that we will have trouble in this world, but he came so that we 'can have life, and have it to the FULL!" (John 10:10) Take that in for a moment. God wants nothing but good things for us. Sometimes, we have to go through the fire to appreciate the fun. Difficult days do provide an opportunity for us to become better people. And take heart, better days are coming.

Where ever you are, Jesus won't leave you there. He won't let you fumble through life like someone living in an infomercial that seems to accomplish nothing. He won't let you go. He just won't. And he wants the BEST LIFE for you. Not from you, but FOR you! Look to his Kingdom, and let Him take care of the rest. Chase after Jesus and He will lead you on to extraordinary times!

THE MAGNITUDE OF YOUR ATTITUDE

2007-08-13T07:11:00.000-07:00

We are all influenced by dozens of factors in our daily lives. Television and movies can impact our moral positions in life. Musicians and politicians vie for our attention to affect our perspective. But the greatest influencer in our lives is each other. People are most swayed by other people they know. We have the power to impact the choices another person makes. We can alter the path of someones life. We can change another person's world -- through our attitude.

We need to recognize the magnitude of our attitude. The daily conversations we have, the looks that we give one another, the the respect that we show each other. These things can all have a lasting impact on the lives of the people with whom you are living and doing life. So my question is: Do you truly want a better life for those you closest to you? If so, what are you doing to make that a reality?

WE NEED MORE MUSCLE SHIRTS

2007-08-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

Do you realize that the mood that you project has an impact on the world around you? No matter what your disposition is, it has an affect on others. So you need to evaluate, do you wear your feelings on your sleeve. We all want to be genuine with others. We want to be ourselves. But there are definitely some times to hold back.

We need to share the good. We need to increase the joy in the lives of those around us. When times are good, let's share it with others. So when you're having a great day. When the sun is brighter than normal, you slept like a baby, and you just got a bonus at work, share the joy. Don't flaunt it or brag, but actually share. If you got a bonus, take a couple of coworkers out to lunch. Actually SHARE the joy.

But on the flipside, when you are tired, frustrated or grumpy, don't dump that on those closest to you. Of course, if you're really discouraged, you should be able to count on some support from friends. But if you had a fight with your kids and then had a rough night sleep, keep that to yourself. There is no positive impact that comes from complaining. So if you are like me and tend to wear your emotions on your sleeves, choose the right times to do so. Or we'll need more muscle shirts.

YOU'VE GOT TO PULL THE PLUG.

2007-08-06T09:42:00.000-07:00

Why are we so afraid of letting things end. There are actually very proper times to let programs, minisries and even relationships die. But it's so hard for us to let go. Perhaps it's because we are attached to this specific ministry idea. Maybe we have a real sense of ownership for a program we championed. And of course, we all have a hard time writing someone of as a friend.

We need to pull the plug. The most common phrase heard in churches is, "We've always done it this way." Churches are great at starting ministries, groups and programs, but they are lousy at recognizing when they've lost their value. We should be looking for the best ways to use our energy for expanding the Kingdom of God.

Letting a relationship end is even harder. As Christians, we are taught to value everyone as worthy of Jesus' sacrifice. Everyone is created in God's image and loved the same by Him. But don't let that trap you in unhealthy friendships. We all know that we shouldn't remain in abusive relationships, but what about destructive relationships? What about relationships that just don't necessarily move our lives closer to God? We are called to love everyone and to recognize all people as God's beloved creation, but we are not called to foster relationships with those who do not edify us and bring us closer to our Creator. We must always act in love, but we must also not allow ourselves to be negatively impacted in our relationship with Christ by remaining unnecessarily connected with negative influencers. I guess I'd put it this way, love all men and women, but pursue Jesus with reckless abandon.

IT'S TIME TO GIVE UP

2007-07-30T16:57:00.000-07:00

God has put within us an intrinsic desire for Him. We have an instinctual understanding of what is good; what is beautiful; what is right. But throughout our lives, we struggle with allowing this spiritual nature to take control and lead our lives.

We often lack confidence, questioning if these natural desires are from God, or are they just our own ideas. The Spirit of God lives within us and therefore the voice of God is indeed "in our heads." We could actually boarder on being labeled psychotic because we hear the voice of God.

-- Now wait, I'm not a mystic and I understand living in a real world, but I also understand that the Spirit of God is more real than what you and I can see or touch. We have to trust that we are indeed created in the image of God, we do indeed have his Spirit living within us, and we do know what we ought to do. It's time to stop resisting God's promptings and let Him move us where He pleases. Then we will have some stories to tell!

HOW TO BE A BETTER QUITTER...

2007-07-23T07:47:00.000-07:00

As a pastor, I've heard dozens of reasons for why people want to quit. From why they want to quit a specific ministry to why they want to quit coming to my church (I know it's not "my" church, but you know what I mean). I know what creates a positive outcome and what doesn't. Here's some tips.

When quitting a certain ministry, evaluate how the ministry will be impacted without your efforts. If you're feeling "burnt out" talk to the ministry head about that. If you're going through difficult times in your personal life - don't quit. It is better to pour yourself out serving than to give yourself extra time to focus on your problems. When it is at all possible, continue to serve. I know I'm a pastor so you probably think I'm just bias about wanting help. But I understand that we are all called to serve God's people and it's my responsibility to remind you of that.

When quitting the church, if your reason is "I'm just not getting anything out of it," you have a warped perspective on church. It doesn't exist for you to get something out of it. It exists for you to be a part of a community of believers and for you to bring something to it. And no matter what your reason, be a quiet quitter. There is little to no good that comes from sharing your gripes about a community of believers with whom you don't want to build into. Of course, you want your opinions and "suggestions" to be considered, but when your quitting, you've made the statement that you are unwiling to work at a relationship, unwilling to put forth the effort to bring about change. It just comes across as complaints. So just leave quietly and with love. We are all called to love one another above all things. That's how the world will know that we are Christians, by loving one another.

my wife's birthday

2007-07-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

Today is my wife's birthday and I will be spending the day with her. I apologize for not having a regular post, but I'll put one up next Monday.

GOD DIDN'T FINISH THE JOB...

2007-07-09T18:08:00.000-07:00

so it's up to us.

Jesus did indeed complete the work of salvation through his death on the cross. But he didn't tell the whole world about that sacrifice. This job has been entrusted to a variety of people who are primarily untrained, inexperienced and passionate about Jesus' work in their lives. That's you and me. Now you may say that I've been trained, I went to a Christian college. But I've never sat directly under Jesus teaching. I've not had any special opportunity to experience an independent study under Jesus. I've been taught about the Bible & Jesus and I know Him in my life. That's enough. From that point, He is expecting me to do my part to complete the work that He started; that of saving all mankind. Are you with me?

FORGET ABOUT YOUR POTENTIAL...

2007-07-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

and start focusing on your capacity.

I know this could be a semantic issue, but I am more interested in reaching my capacity than I am in reaching my potential. I'm applying these ideas to my faith in and service to God. Here's how I define the two words. Potential is that which I could do or achieve if the conditions were right. Potential is not necessarily the best I could do at the moment, but the best I could do, if I stretched myself, and sought to move to a new level. Whereas capacity, is what I can do right now. Given my current conditions, what I can achieve right now is my capacity. Therefore to reach my potential, I'd have to increase my capacity.

I believe that many people think about a person's potential. "If given the opportunity, he could do some amazing things." -- But what if he isn't given this opportunity, what's the best he could do then? Too often we look to what someone else, or even ourselves could do if things were just a little bit different. It becomes an excuse for not doing something excellent. I think we would be better off to start thinking about how we can reach our capacity right now, today. Then when opportunities arise allowing us to move closer to our potential (our capacity has been increased) we are ready to move forward, and we are not excuse makers.

So don't think about if things were different. Given your current situation, are you reaching your full capacity? Is there more you can do before you hit your ceiling? Philippians 3:16 says, "Only let us live up to what we have already attained." Let us reach our capacity now, and anxiously await the change that will increase it.

WANT TO SEE SOMETHING AMAZING?

2007-06-25T12:48:00.000-07:00

This weekend I saw the move Evan Almighty. I found it to be very entertaining and I was pleased to see so much positive representation of God's involvement in our lives. But here's the strong idea I took from it.

Do I want God to do something amazing through me? If I do, what would I be willing to sacrifice for such an opportunity? It just makes me think.

COST OF DISCIPLESHIP: one

2007-06-18T14:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, at church, I was have a conversation with a friend about making plans. We both talked about how our plans are subject to God's plans and although we should plan for our future, God is still in control.

But the verses that came to my mind in the discussion were regarding a man who plans to build a house and is unable to finish due to poor planning. And then a king who trying to determine if he can win a war or should he make peace. Today I read the verses that discussed these ideas and they have nothing to do with planning. They have to do with counting costs. That is understanding what you'll have to pay in order to accomplish your goals. They refer to counting the cost of being a disciple of Jesus.

The idea expressed is that once you start something (even discipleship) you have to follow through to pay for everything in full. And when we evaluate the cost of discipleship, we come to the following number: one. In order to be a disciple of Jesus we have to give Him one life, our own. Not a fraction of our lives. Not a portion. But one, complete life. Then we can be His disciple.

BE AFRAID

2007-06-11T13:39:00.000-07:00

...of letting fear take a hold of your life. When fear becomes a central theme in our lives, we make poor choices.

Fear is the great inhibitor of leadership. If a person has allowed fear to become a stronghold in their life, they lose their ability to lead. They become second guessers and fall backwards believing that security lies in the past (or the familiar) and they fail to move ahead, and are in turn, unable to help others move ahead.

Fear is the great advocate of mediocrity. When someone lives with fear at the front of their decision making process, they will resist any decision that doesn't give them high odds for success. But great things are not accomplished because the odds were in their favor. Stories of greatness revolve around people overcoming horrible odds to achieve great things.

Fear is the "home" for the masses. Millions of people choose to live a life that is guided by fear of failure, fear of pain, & fear of humiliation. These people are comfortable in staying put. They don't venture out. They don't take chances. Honesty, they barely live.

We are called to live our lives with a spirit of strength and of power. God's very Spirit lives within us, so we should be leaders who direct others onto a path leading toward Christ. We should strive to live lives that accomplish extradordinary successes. And we should not shrink back into the comforts of safety, but stand out at the risk of total loss. We are God's children. We are not only called His, children, but that is what we are. We are children of a king; children of a God! Let's live like it!

I THINK JESUS IS RUNNING LATE

2007-06-04T14:09:00.000-07:00

I was thinking this morning about Jesus' timing. We always say that Jesus will act at just the right time. We believe that sometimes our prayers are answered "not now" or "not yet," as if there is a perfect time for Jesus to act. So it made me think, were there any times in the gospels where Jesus was late. I could find two.

First with Jairus' daughter. Jairus asked Jesus to come heal his daughter who was dying. While on the way, the bleeding woman touched Jesus' cloak and was healed and Jesus stopped to interact with her. Then someone from Jairus' home came and told him to not bother Jesus anymore, because the girl had died. Jesus told Jairus to believe and continued on to his house. He then raised the twelve year old girl from the dead.

Second, Jesus was intentionally late to help Lazarus, his good friend who was dying. In this example, Jesus chose to be late so as to exhibit God's glory in raising Lazarus from the dead, just days before Jesus was to face death himself. It was as if Jesus wanted to give another reason for the disciples to have faith when He was crucified, that he could indeed conquer death.

So the question is, "Is Jesus running late for you?" Do you feel as though time is about to run out and Jesus will have to work a miracle? Be assured, He can. Jesus knows what you are going through and he will always come through for you at just the right time.

CHECK YOUR REFLECTION

2007-05-28T12:33:00.000-07:00

Last week, while I was on a prayer walk, I came across a bird that was injured and couldn't fly. As an animal lover, I was saddened by the little guy's hopping around and I figured he probably would not survive long. I was bummed to think that the one thing that makes a bird special, the main thing that makes a bird a bird, is its ability to fly. And this little bird just didn't have it anymore. He had basically been reduced to a slow moving, two legged rodent.

A couple of days later, I was thinking about the bird again, and also considering what is it that makes us (mankind) special. What makes us different from anything else in creation? The answer: our capacity, or ability to reflect God's glory. That is something that only we can do. The earth is filled with God's creation. And there are many things that are beautiful. But nothing can reflect God's glory like you and I can. We are the beings that were created in God's image and we have the greatest capacity to reflect God's glory to this hurting world. We are the ones with the ability to make this earth a better place and share God's glory with it, but too often we voluntarily give up our ability "to fly." We let our own agendas, goals, and opinions get in the way. We allow sin to tarnish our surface preventing us from reflecting God's glory. How much more heartbreaking is this, that men and women choose to not reflect the glory of God, which is our greatest ability?

May you spread your wings and soar. May you brightly shine the glory of God to the dark world around you. May you reach your capacity.

happy birthday...

2007-05-21T12:47:00.000-07:00

to my good friend and spiritual stimulant - Cliff Neff.

to my sister-in-law and style consultant - Joanna Madison.

Both of you keep up the good work of making me look and sound better.

SHUT UP!

2007-05-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

Now please don't get too upset with me for this title. I mean to challenge you to sit quite before the LORD. Today I went on a prayer walk and decided that I'd listen to God (without me saying a word) for an hour. And I noticed somethings.

First of all, we are surrounded by a lot of noise. I was in this beautiful, serene place and there was still a great deal of noise. There was the sound of traffic, birds chirping, sprinklers, and planes coming in on final approach. I didn't here any people, but there was still plenty of noise. I noticed that it was VERY difficult to block it all out and focus on God.

Second, it felt very awkward to end my silence. After being quiet before God for an hour, nothing seemed appropriate or important enough to break that silence. Even in the car on my drive home, listening to Deliriuos?, I didn't feel right using my voice to sing along with the iPod. Once I got silent, I mean really silent in my soul, I wanted to stay there.

Third, the silence brought peace. When I didn't allow myself to share my thoughts with God or to put in my requests, I started to experience this peaceful sensation within my soul.

So I challenge you, stay quiet before the God for an hour. See what happens.

YOUR JOY IS IN YOUR WORK

2007-05-07T13:35:00.000-07:00

Of course, many people dread they're jobs. A lot of us don't like our work and wish we could just be independently wealthy and not have to work. But the truth is, we were designed to work. From the day we were created we were intended to be productive. Gen. 2:15 "The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it."

I believe it is important for us to remember that our value is determined by our being. That is, we are valuable, because we are God's most prized creation, created in His image, and purchased but the blood of Jesus. But our joy and satisfaction come from accomplishing good things. These things could be as simple as emptying the dishwasher to as complex as walking someone through the truths of scripture. We are called to "do" things, not only to "be" holy, children of God.

So get to work!

GOD DOESN'T WANT ORDINARY PEOPLE...

2007-04-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

to stay ordinary. You've heard it said, "God uses ordinary people." Moses was not good at public speaking. Abraham lied about his wife. David committed adultery. God used Rahab a prostitute. Jesus hung out with sinners. But often, too much empahsis is placed on these people being "ordinary." Yes, that's how they started. For many of them there wasn't anything really special about them, but they were available to God. Once He got involved, these people became extraordinary! The great leaders in our faith may have started out as ordinary men and women, but they did not stay that way. The rose up and accomplished great things for the Kingdom of God. So I guess I'd try to encourage you to understand that you don't have to be anyone special to be used by God. But if you let Him use you, you won't be ordinary. You'll be a child of THE KING!

HE'S A WAY BETTER PREACHER THAN ME...

2007-04-25T06:15:00.000-07:00

and his name is Rob Bell. I take comfort in the fact that he's a way better preacher than most of us. I just wanted to encourage you to check out his messages on iTunes. Search for Rob Bell and you'll find a podcast for Mars Hill Church from Grand Rapids, MI. He's a great orator and he beautifully expresses the truths of scripture. (NOTE: if you attend Valley Fellowship Church - you probably will hear some of his ideas being retold, because they are so good, they ought to be shared)

Also, I'm sorry for not posting this on Monday, but I had to make a rush trip to Sedalia, MO at the last minute. My grandma went to see Jesus this weekend and therefore, I got to see my entire family as we celebrated her new awakening!

DON’T BE THE NAKED GUY…

2007-04-16T11:03:00.000-07:00

I’m a member at the local fitness club and I’ve discovered something interesting. In the locker room I’m given the opportunity to witness other men’s hygiene and routine for getting showered and cleaned up for the day. But last week was the most interesting.

I walked into the locker room to immediately see a man, probably in his late thirties, standing in front of a mirror, near the entrance to the locker room, naked and combing his hair. I know that in a locker room, there will be other naked men, but generally there is a degree of modesty where you don’t expose yourself unnecessarily and not for a lengthy amount of time. But this guy showed no concern for this unwritten code and considered combing his hair to be of greater importance than covering himself.

Honestly, I immediately thought that this was a prime example of someone having their priorities out of line. He honestly thought it was more urgent that he fix his hair than that he cover his (out of shape) body. I think that this concept is so true for all of us in life, that at times we get our priorities out of line and waste time focused on relatively unimportant details, when our weaknesses are exposed for everyone to see.

So let me challenge you to take time this week to prioritize what is truly important, and don’t be the naked guy.

TODAY'S CHURCH HAS IT BACKWARDS

2007-04-09T13:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Easter. It's the one of the most highly attended serves each year for churches across America. It is one of the days with the most visitors, most seats filled with non-believers (or people who's faith is not evidenced in their local church involvement). It is a day that many churches target these visitors. There entire service can become about reaching those people. And this way of thinking has affected the way many church leaders function on all of the other Sundays of the year. Churches are often driven by the "seekers." Our weekly services have become "seeker sensitive," if not "seeker driven." Sunday's are all about those people who don't consider the church as a priority, nor their center for spiritual direction. It is about the "lost."

So what is there for the believers? What are these churches doing to empower and disciple believers? In some churches there is a separate "believers'" service. This one to me seems strange - that we would have a service to get you to join us, but once you're in, we show you what it's really like. This boarders on a "bait & switch." Plus, consider that when "seekers" come to visit a church, they are expecting to be out of their comfort zone. They come with expectations to engage in unfamiliar activities and to watch believers as they passionately worship their God.

In other churches, there are small groups. These are usually Bible studies that help to engage people on a deeper level and move them forward in their faith. But I think, THIS IS BACKWARDS, and on a number of levels.

First, the odds of having a lasting powerful impact on someone who is "lost" by making a Sunday service that is sensitive to their desires is slim. The number one issue that the "lost" have with The Church, is being told that they are going to Hell. But really, when we design our services to be about seekers, this is what the message becomes every week. We may not exactly mention "hell" but the point comes through.

Second, people don't change when they see the light, they change with they feel the heat. A person is not going to feel the heat in an unfamiliar environment listening to a stranger talk about a God that he doesn't believe in. But he will "feel the heat" when he sees, first hand, the evidence of a life impacted by God in his neighbor or co-worker.

Third, the number of people who will grace the doors of a church is minuscule to the number of people who will have a conversation with neighbor. And they are much more open to a friend talking about God, than a pastor/stranger.

Therefore, I am convinced that we should begin to move our services back to educating, inspiring, and empowering believers to "go and make disciples" while counting on the "small groups" of neighbors, or co-workers talking about what God is doing in their lives.

I think we need to quit worring about "seekers" because they are already seeking God. They may not have given their lives to Him yet, but they are on their way. We need to focus on those people who would never enter a church. We need to focus on those who are not seeking, and strive to change that. We need a change. I wonder how long until it happens?

STOP PLACING YOUR HOPE IN GOD

2007-04-02T07:54:00.000-07:00

What is it to "hope?" It is a wish that a desire in your heart would come true. It is a longing, that you believe might become reality. It is a combination of wanting and believing that something may actually happen. The Bible is clear about hope and also clear about faith. Hebrews says that faith is "being sure of what we hope for." So I say, stop placing your hope in God and start placing your faith in Him. In other words, don't believe that God might answer your prayers, believe that He will. It is OK to have expectations on God. He is faithful.

I have at times thought about something I longed for and believed that God wanted me to have it, and could bless me with it, but wondered if He actually would. My faith has been challenged and pushed to a new level to instead believe that he will. When the scriptures says, "trust in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart," there isn't a "maybe" factor involved.

Consider this, God has expectations on us. He wants us to be faithful, just as He is faithful. If we are both faithful, couldn't we both have expectations on one another? Isn't that what faithfulness is about? If a person is faithful, you know you can count on him. You know what to expect from him. Likewise, God is faithful, so we should know what we can expect from Him. He even tells us to trust in Him, and He will provide.

So if hope is good, faith is better. Let's move beyond hope to faith in God.

I LOST MY FAITH THIS WEEK...

2007-03-26T15:52:00.000-07:00

...thank goodness I found it Sunday, just before church.

This past week I had been thinking about God's involvment in my life. I came to realize that I was resolving to believe that God watches what is happening in my life and does care about it, but does little to involve Himself. I accepted that He hears my prayers and knows the desires of my heart, but He only acts when He feels like it. I almost started to feel like life in general was a crap-shoot as to whether God would work to bring about the desires I long for in life.

Just before church, I engaged in a conversation with a woman who I had used as an illustration just last week, for placing our faith in God and counting on Him to respond. She helped me remember that God indeed cares about every aspect of my life. She said that she expects that God is often looking at us an laughing at our anxiety, saying, "Don't worry, I'm taking care of everything."

Personally, I have to remember to balance my belief that God gives us choice and expects us to do the best we can in our lives, and that He is heavily involved in making our dreams come true.

COMPUTERS ARE OF THE DEVIL

2007-03-19T22:15:00.000-07:00

You know, sometimes, I believe that we use our God given abilities to create and engineer tools that make our lives easier. But I also believe that we become so reliant on such tools, we fall apart at small collapses in technology. It seems that when we become dependent on technology to accomplish specific goals, we are setting ourselves up for impending doom.

I know, I know, technology helps us a great deal and we are able to accomplish much more today than we could before some great technological advances. I agree. But we have to remember the value of people. It is people who make the technology work, and keep it working. We need to love people more that possibilities.

I'm sure this rant seems unnecessary, but I'm on hold (as I type this) with my webhosting company, hoping to find out why they took my site down after I just upgraded and paid more $$ two weeks ago for my site. Am I being subjective? Yes. But I'm trying to remind myself, before my customer service rep comes on the line, that he or she is more important than my website. Jesus died for him or her, and no one should die over failed webhosting.

HIDING YOUR SINS CAN BE THE FASTEST WAY TO BECOME A CHURCH LEADER

2007-03-12T12:23:00.000-07:00

This is a sad truth about churches today. Everyone would say that church is the place where you should feel the grace of God. You shouldn't be afraid to admit your struggles, because everyone there knows that we all struggle. But unfortnately, the people we thrust on a pedestal and put in leadership positions are those who are best at appearing like they have no struggles. If you really want to break it down, you could say that the those who are best at deceiving are given the microphone and expected to lead. We all need to be transparent. We all need to be honest about our struggles. Of course there is a need for some discretion, but not deception. When we admit we are weak, then God can be glorified through our victories over these areas of weakness.

I SURPRISED MYSELF

2007-03-05T11:35:00.000-07:00

Again, this post is not necessarily going to be my most inspiring. But I wanted to share a comment that I made last night at a small group we were hosting. -- "Yeah, let's all go around and share a story about a family member's colon." This was in a discussion about the movie, Amazing Grace. It just goes to show how in a discussion, you can move from one idea to another that seems completely unrelated in very little time. Have a great week!

QUESTION:

2007-02-26T14:25:00.000-07:00

Did Adam have a belly button?

JESUS DIDN'T WANT TO DIE FOR YOUR SINS

2007-02-20T08:24:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought about the prayer Jesus prayed while in the garden just before he was betrayed. He asked God to work out another way to save us. He wanted out. The truth is, he was human and new what was in store for him in the coming hours and he didn't want to have to endure it.

You might think that I'm bordering on heresy by saying that Jesus didn't want to die for our sins. But look at the scripture. He didn't want to die for our sins. But he wanted to save us more than he wanted out of dying for us. That is what I find amazing.

If Jesus didn't really concern himself with the logistics of dying for us, then really, it would mean less. But since he truly didn't want to have to face that much pain and shame, it more strongly proves his desire to save us.

Thank you Jesus, for doing that which you didn't want to do, in order to save me.

GOD CAN'T FORGIVE YOUR SINS

2007-02-14T12:46:00.000-07:00

Bad news, eh? Well, sort of. There are two main characteristics of God that make this statement true.

1. God is holy. His identity is wrapped up in his holiness. He is so holy (or perfect) that he cannot be in the presence of anything imperfect. The definition of holy is summed up in the phrase, "set apart." God is set apart. Because he is perfect he is separate.

2. God is just. This is closely tied to is holiness. God will always do the right thing. He will never error. Nor can he let someone else's mistake (or sin) go without punishment. If he did, he wouldn't be just and he would be God.

So therefore, God can't forgive your sins. I mean he can't just let them go unpunished and forget about them. There is a payment or sacrifice that must be made in order for us to be holy and therefore in God's presence. Answer: Jesus. It's almost incorrect to say that God forgives sins, based on our interpretation of forgiveness. We tend to think of forgiveness as accepting an apology and attempting to move on as if the infraction never happened. We would be more accurate to say that God punishes for every sin that we commit. But thankfully, Jesus took that punishment.

But did Jesus really want to die for our sins? (find out next week)

I don't care if non-Christians come to my church.

2007-02-05T07:55:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I know, that sounds harsh. But hear me out. When the first church was meeting back in the first century, they met together for the purpose of fellowship, edification through teaching, eating (most people agree - in remembrance of Christ's sacrifice), and to meet one another's needs. Evangelism is not one of the reasons they met as a church.

But today, churches have taken on the responsibility of evangelism, in essence, taking it away from God's people. Churches often refer to Matt. 28 (the great commission) as part of their purpose for existing. "God tells to 'Go and make disciples' so we are here to make disciples." But the verse doesn't say "Go and start churches that can make disciples," or "Go and invite your friends to Church so that a pastor can make them disciples."

It gives the imperative to command to the disciples, that is, the people! People are supposed to go and make disciples. We should indeed then try to get those disciples connected in community of believers for edification, fellowship, remembering Christ's sacrifice, and meeting one another's needs. But the responsibility of evangelism lies on you and me, not on our respective churches; not on our preachers, but on us.

We should also note that the verse says "Go." We cannot passively evangelize the world by preparing a great program, having insightful messages, and inviting the lost into our environment. We need to go to them. The church as an organization is so limited in what it can do to infiltrate the community. People who are lost and need Jesus live next door, work in the cubicle next to us, and wait on us at our local restaurants. Individuals need to be reaching these people, because we can. Otherwise, we are just waiting and hoping that these people will as some point choose to enter an unfamiliar environment and come to us at church.

Let's Go!!!

CHECK OUT THIS XXX SITE!

2007-01-29T13:42:00.000-07:00

www.xxxchurch.com

I know it's not new. But it is important and you should check it out.

GOD DOESN'T CARE ABOUT MOST OF THE DECISIONS YOU HAVE TO MAKE

2007-01-22T16:36:00.000-07:00

He just doesn't. I know, I know, "but God cares about every aspect of our lives, no matter how small. If they are important to us, they are important to him." This is true, but I'm saying that God doesn't want you to go to college rather than get a job. God doesn't care if you accept that offer in New York or if you stay in your current position. God doesn't have a preferrence about whether or not you put your kid in public or private school. He wants you to enjoy the true freedom to choose.

One of the most beautiful things about us being created in God's image is free will. God wants us to know the joy of liberation. We are not bound to do exactly what God wants on every level. The truth is, He just wants us to whole-heartedly love and chase after a close reationship with Him. Everything else is truly up to us.

Now don't get me wrong. God does in fact care about things that are important to us. He just isn't going to be disappointed or happier with either choice. What we ought to do is ask God to prompt us with His Spirit and through the wise counsel of others as to what is the best option. Then make our decision and strive to serve God in whatever the outcome.

There are some pastors who would challenge this idea in that they were "called" to ministry. I too experienced a "call" that was clear. I know that God wants me to be serving Him in ministry as a "shepherd" to His people. But that experience only happend once in my life. I suppose it may happen more than just once in a lifetime, but I doubt it. Such a clear and specific prompting from God is something special, not something that happens every week.

So I'll challenge you to chase after God with reckless abandon, and not worry about how He feels about every choice you face. He really only concerned about the one choice, whether or not you are going to chase after Him.

NEVER READ A BIBLE VERSE

2007-01-16T13:33:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I know it's Tuesday & I'm supposed to post every Monday. But yesterday was a holiday so...

Anyway, today my idea is to tell you to never read a Bible verse. The verses you see in the Bible were not written to be read individually. Each verse is part of a context that actually shapes it's meaning. The goal in studying scripture is to look for the author's intended meaning (AIM). You will have a difficult time interpreting the meaning with only one verse. If you are interested in a verse, read the verses and paragraphs before and after it. Look at the total context. Otherwise, I could manipulate specific individual verses to reach a conclusion that I want, not necessarily what God is trying to tell me. Read Matt. 27:5, then read Luke 10:37b, finally read John 13:27b. Put together, these verses could be interpreted to be telling the reader to hang himself, like Judas, right away. No verses are meant to be used individually.

Of course, pastors are most famous for hand picking a verse that fits their point, and often times they are correctly using a verse that if you read the context, you'd agree with it's usage and interpretation. But be aware that sometimes, us pastors will just pick a verse because it sounds the way we like for a specific point, and it really is a bad choice. The trick is for YOU to read the verse, AND the context surrounding it. So, I can justify saying that as a pastor, I think you should NEVER READ A BIBLE VERSE.

STOP GOING TO CHURCH!

2007-01-08T16:08:00.000-07:00

...that is if you are a regular attender at a church. Of if you don't go to church at all, then just don't go to church. Nowhere in the Bible does it say that God wants us to go to church. There are not commands telling us to go to church. There is no promises made to us if we would just go to church. Nothing.

All we know is that believers in Christ in the first days after he ascended into heaven began to meet together daily to listen to teachings and eat together. They would support each other financially as well as emotionally. What we refer to as the "early church" or the "first church" was a community of believers that tied their lives together with the common bond of acceptance of what Jesus had done for them. This is what we ought to do. This is being the church!

This is what we are commanded to do. We are to love God with all that we have and to love each other more than ourselves (Matt. 23:37-40).We are to continue to work out our faith with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12). We should be providing for one another in every way.

We must stop going to church. We must BE the church. That's what God wants for us.

get ready

2006-12-26T18:16:00.000-07:00

get ready to hear some interesting ideas that will make you think through and continue to work out your faith.

more to come soon...