Disciple Road

Working on a New Blog & Website

2011-10-16T11:51:00.002-06:00

I am in the process of developing a new website and blog for New Life Community. Stay tuned for more details as they become available.

Song: The Old Rugged Cross

2011-08-31T10:25:00.024-06:00

I was at a funeral recently where a baritone soloist sang the dusty old hymn "The Old Rugged Cross." This song is full of contrasts - mainly the lyrics that focus on a cruel instrument of torture and death married to a sweeping melody that stirs the emotions as if we were singing about a long lost loved one.

The soloist sang the fourth verse as these words washed over us: "To the old rugged cross I will ever be true; its shame and reproach gladly bear..." As I listened to these words I wondered how many of us at the funeral understand what it means to "gladly bear" the old rugged cross. After all, how does one swear allegiance to an instrument of torture and death?

In Matthew 10:38, Jesus made a similar statement. He said, "Anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me." This harsh sounding statement is hard pressed to find its way into an inspiring and uplifting song any better than "The Old Rugged Cross." But what does it mean? How do we take up our cross, or 'ever be true' to the cross?

Some have concluded that the way to be 'true' to the Old Rugged Cross is to remember Jesus' death, and to hold it as special. And while these are commendable ideas, Jesus' call for his disciples to be cross carrying people is about something much more important than simply remembering fondly the instrument of Jesus' death. It is a call to die so that we might come to new life in the Kingdom of God!

This way of life that 'gladly bears' the old rugged cross is the way in which our self-oriented Self is put to death, and it must be put to death if our God-oriented Self is to become the reality of our existence. In Colossians 3 the Apostle Paul describes well this 'putting to death' and 'clothing' of one's self in our new identity in Christ. The way this happens is by taking up our cross.

Here is the rub, however, our self-oriented Self doesn't want to die! In fact it would rather kill you than be killed by the power of the Spirit working in/through you. It wants your destruction, and it accomplishes this best when our self-oriented Self is built up rather than being torn down.

This is why an old dusty song like "The Old Rugged Cross" points us towards a serious and life-ending struggle that must be undertaken by every person who chooses to follow Jesus. And when we do, when we choose to take up our instrument of death, we are also taking up our tree of life.

What do your books say about you?

2011-08-04T09:27:00.006-06:00

Recently I had the opportunity to go through the 'library' of a friend who died for the purpose of relocating her books to good homes. If you have ever had this kind of experience you will know that carrying heavy boxes of books to the car is the easiest part of the process. Sorting through years worth of reading is the challenge.
How do you evaluate a person's library? How do you determine what book is worth passing along to a new generation of readers that will lift them into the heights of heaven, and what books should burn in the pit of publishing hell for all eternity? Okay, maybe that is slightly overstated.

Well as I was going through her books I felt like an intellectual voyeur. I was getting the chance to see what my friend had been thinking about, and what interested her the most. After all, she paid good money on a meager income to acquire these books. They told me a lot about her.

Then I started wondering what my books say about me. Certainly they tell a story, but what story do they tell? What book am I spending my hard earned money buying so that I can fill my mind with their juicy morsels? Would I be embarrassed for you to see my collection?

What do your books say about you?

"I Pledge Allegiance"

2011-07-01T09:10:00.014-06:00

From time to time I get in trouble for what is perceived as a lack of gratitude and respect for the country in which I was born and choose to live in. I understand that I have a tremendous privilege to live in a country that still affords a large measure of freedom to its citizens. I am free to worship the God of my choosing. I am free to work, to travel, to buy and sell, to speak, to gather, and more. The freedoms that we celebrate on the weekend of July 4th (Independence Day) are not to be taken lightly because these are not freedoms enjoyed by many around the world. As a citizen of the United States I vote, honor my leaders, and pray for the president. So let me say, "I'm thankful to be an American."

However, being an American citizen is not my primary allegiance. I am a citizen of a different kingdom - a heavenly kingdom - which demands my supreme allegiance and affection. I have joined with countless voices over the past 2,011 years who claim Jesus as Lord. This is no mere religious commitment, nor is it simply a private devotion. Declaring "Jesus is Lord" is a political statement. It is a declaration that my allegiance and loyalty has been sworn to a King who rules over a different kingdom than the one I currently live in.

At times this puts me at odds with the kingdom of this world in which I reside, particularly as I long for the the Day when "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign for ever and ever." (Rev. 11:15) On that Day "Jesus is Lord" will resound from the lips of every person because "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Phil. 2:11-12)

No more government shut downs because the political parties can't agree on a budget.

No more wars motivated by selfish desires and political expediency.

No more wasted resources.

Only the just and righteous rule of our King Jesus!

So as we celebrate our freedom from the grasp of the evil British Empire on the 4th of July perhaps as followers of Jesus we might consider where our ultimate allegiance lies. Is Jesus Lord, or is the American Dream Lord? Do we live in a way that reflects that we're citizens of a heavenly kingdom, or do our lives reflect the values and norms of the kingdom of this world in which we reside?

I leave you with these thoughts from the Apostle Paul:

"As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath.

But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

Happy Independence Day!

Jesus is Lord!

"Free to live and love as they see fit."

2011-06-24T09:43:00.011-06:00

Yesterday President Obama attended a fundraiser for his re-election campaign that was hosted by a GLBT organization. Like all politicians, the speech was intended to express support for whatever that particular group champions. It just happened to be in this case that the cause being supported is the current legislation in the NY Assembly to endorse "gay marriage."

I'm thankful that every person in the United States is free to pursue 'happiness' as the Preamble to the Constitution states, within the boundaries of the law. I am not interested in trying to deny that right to the GLBT community. As far as I know, it is not illegal to be homosexual in the United States; although there have been laws regarding the sexual expression of homosexuality in a number of states in the past.

What caught my attention in the Yahoo news article about the President's speech was his statement that "he was confident that there will be a day when every single American, gay or straight or lesbian or bisexual or transgender, is free to live and love as they see fit." I thought that they were free to live and love as they see fit in the United States...aren't they?

The President's words "as they see fit" sounded awfully familiar. His speech writer may or may not be familiar with the Bible, but there is statement in the book of Judges that sounds quite similar to the President's dream. In Judges 17:6 we read, "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit." Sounds great doesn't it? Sounds like real freedom! But this freedom that the President looks forward too with confidence doesn't apply to everyone in our country. "It doesn't?" you ask. No it doesn't.

Let me offer a few examples:

Rep. Anthony Wiener is free to live and love as he sees fit, right? No?

Lindsey Lohan is free to live and party as she sees fit, right? No?

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger certainly can live and procreate as he sees fit? No?

Bernard Madhoff? Can he live and spend as he sees fit? No?

Rev. Fred Phelps got approval from the U.S. Supreme Court to live and protest as he sees fit?

Osama Bin Laden? Can he live and fight as he sees fit? No?

Why not? Why can't these human beings live as they see fit? Not all of them are even breaking the laws of this country? The reason, of course, is because they are violating our societal laws and norms. We've decided formally and/or informally that the way that they want to live is most definitely NOT okay.

So, the President's dream is not for everyone. It is only for those who have gained the approval of our society. What about those who are outside of the societal norms? I guess they have to keep dreaming.

What happens if one day you are found to be outside of societies norms? Will you continue to live and love as you see fit? And really, isn't there a basis for drawing the boundary lines that is not left up to the whims of culture or the political fundraising of a president? I sure hope so!

Ecclesia Church Planter Training - Audio

2011-06-22T11:44:00.001-06:00

Repost: 8 Ways to Easily Be Missional

2011-06-21T07:31:00.000-06:00

8 Ways to Easily Be Missional

Article by: Jonathan Dodson

Missional is not an event we tack onto our already busy lives. It is our life. Mission should be the way we live, not something we add onto life: “As you go, make disciples….”; “Walk wisely towards outsiders”; “Let your speech always be seasoned with salt”; “be prepared to give a defense for your hope”. We can be missional in everyday ways without overloading our schedules. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Eat with Non-Christians. We all eat three meals a day. Why not make a habit of sharing one of those meals with a non-Christian or with a family of non-Christians? Go to lunch with a co-worker, not by yourself. Invite the neighbors over for family dinner. If it’s too much work to cook a big dinner, just order pizza and put the focus on conversation. When you go out for a meal invite others. Or take your family to family-style restaurants where you can sit at the table with strangers and strike up conversation. Cookout and invite Christians and non-Christians. Flee the Christian subculture.

2. Walk, Don’t Drive. If you live in a walkable area, make a practice of getting out and walking around your neighborhood, apartment complex, or campus. Instead of driving to the mailbox, convenience store, or apartment office, walk to get mail, groceries, and stuff. Be deliberate in your walk. Say hello to people you don’t know. Strike up conversations. Attract attention by walking the dog, taking a 6-pack (and share), bringing the kids. Make friends. Get out of your house! Take interest in your neighbors. Ask questions. Pray as you go. Save some gas, the planet, and some people.

3. Be a Regular. Instead of hopping all over the city for gas, groceries, haircuts, eating out, and coffee, go to the same places. Get to know the staff. Go to the same places at the same times. Smile. Ask questions. Be a regular. I have friends at coffee shops all over the city. My friends at Starbucks donate a ton of left over pastries to our church 2-3 times a week. We use them for church gatherings and occasionally give to the homeless. Build relationships. Be a Regular.

4. Hobby with Non-Christians. Pick a hobby that you can share. Get out and do something you enjoy with others. Try City League sports. Local rowing and cycling teams. Share your hobby by teaching lessons. Teach sewing lessons, piano lessons, violin, guitar, knitting, tennis lessons. Be prayerful. Be intentional. Be winsome. Have fun. Be yourself.

5. Talk to Your Co-workers. How hard is that? Take your breaks with intentionality. Go out with your team or task force after work. Show interest in your co-workers. Pick four and pray for them. Form mom groups in your neighborhood and don’t make them exclusively Christian. Schedule play dates with the neighbors’ kids. Work on mission.

6. Volunteer with Non-Profits. Find a non-profit in your part of the city and take Saturday a month to serve your city. Bring your neighbors, your friends, or your small group. Spend time with your church serving your city. Once a month. You can do it!

7. Participate in City Events. Instead of playing X-Box, watching TV, or surfing the net, participate in city events. Go to fundraisers, festivals, clean-ups, summer shows, and concerts. Participate missionally. Strike up conversation. Study the culture. Reflect on what you see and hear. Pray for the city. Love the city. Participate with the city.

8. Serve your Neighbors. Help a neighbor by weeding, mowing, building a cabinet, fixing a car. Stop by the neighborhood association or apartment office and ask if there is anything you can do to help improve things. Ask your local Police and Fire Stations if there is anything you can do to help them. Get creative. Just serve!

Don’t make the mistake of making “missional” another thing to add to your schedule. Instead, make your existing schedule missional.

=====================================

Jonathan Dodson is one of the pastors of Austin City Life in Austin, Texas and also helps lead The GCM Collective, Acts 29 Texas, and PlantR.

This article was originally posted at the GCM Collective site, here.

Find more resources from Jonathan at his website, here.

Have any stories of your missional community putting any of these into practice? Share those stories with us, and let us know how these easy practices have challenged you. Join the conversation in the comment box below!

JR Woodward: Missional Communities

2011-06-17T09:06:00.001-06:00

JR Woodward: What is a missional community? from Verge Network on Vimeo.

Mike Breen: Missional Communities

2011-06-17T08:49:00.001-06:00

Mike Breen: What is a missional community? from Verge Network on Vimeo.

Missional Community: Austin

2011-06-17T08:36:00.001-06:00

The Austin Stone Community Church - Austin, TX from Verge Network on Vimeo.

Alan Hirsch: Disciple-Making

2011-06-17T08:14:00.000-06:00

Alan Hirsch: Disciple-Making [VERGE video] from Verge Network on Vimeo.

2011-06-07T11:01:00.002-06:00

Cape Town Commitment

Discussion of the Cape Town Commitment

John Piper & Rick Warren Discussion

2011-05-27T15:45:00.001-06:00

Francis Chan - Hell: We can't afford to get it wrong.

2011-05-23T08:03:00.000-06:00

"The End of the World"

2011-05-20T16:50:00.001-06:00

Most of you have heard of the prediction by Harold Camping that the rapture and ensuing 'end of the world' will happen tomorrow starting at 7am in the UK. This is the not his first prediction, nor is it the first prediction of 'doomsday' or the 'end of the world.' As you are probably aware, many people (including Christians) are making great fun of this prediction with their prediction that the world will most certainly not end tomorrow.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to respond in two ways that appear to be a contradiction. First, we are to be eagerly longing for and looking for the return of Jesus! (Matthew 25, Revelation 22:17) It is with great hope that we look forward to the return of Christ, not so that we will be 'raptured' away and the rest of the world will be burned up, but because when Jesus returns the Kingdom will be made manifest in all of its glory! "Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever." That is worth getting excited about!!!

At the same time, we also say with humility that no one knows when that time will come except for God. Jesus said, "But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man." (Matthew 24:36-37) Not only are Camping's predictions on shaky ground, but all those who seek to predict days and hours, seasons and time lines with certainty are missing the point. Most of these predictions come out of a miss understanding of what Jesus taught about the Kingdom.

The Kingdom of God is here, it is all around us, it is breaking in upon us in both startling and comforting ways. And you and are to be a sign of that Kingdom, a foretaste of that Kingdom, and an agent of that Kingdom in the world around us! We are not looking to be 'raptured' off to an alternate universe, but instead we pray the prayer that Jesus taught his disciples: "May Your kingdom come, and Your will be done on earth as it is in the heavens." (Matthew 6:9) While we pray we also live in such a way that we build for that Kingdom in the confident hope that Jesus will indeed return in all his glory and consummate the Kingdom of God on earth. “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” (Revelation 21:3-5) That is worth telling someone about!

So let me encourage you this day to look for opportunities to share the real message of God's Kingdom with those around you. As the topic of the 'end of the world' comes up...and it will...don't just make fun of Harold Camping, but instead take the opportunity to share about the Good News of the redemption, reconciliation, restoration, and renewal of all things through the death and resurrection of Jesus! Share with this person about how they can enter into that kind of life here and now, and in the afterlife.

Are you with me? Let's take this opportunity to share real hope...this open door won't last long!!

Dan Kimball on Heaven, Hell and Evangelism

2011-05-19T10:07:00.000-06:00

Steven Hawking and the Impossible God

2011-05-17T08:14:00.017-06:00

In an article titled "Stephen Hawking says afterlife is a fairy story" by Liz Goodwin, we are once again reminded that Hawking is truly a brilliant man. Despite the physical challenges that he has endured in his life, this man has accomplished tremendous intellectual feats. And when he describes his brain as a computer, one can certainly understand how his experience has led him to relate to his Self in this way.

In the above noted article Goodwin wrote, "What could define God [is a conception of divinity] as the embodiment of the laws of nature. However, this is not what most people would think of that God," Hawking told Sawyer. "They made a human-like being with whom one can have a personal relationship. When you look at the vast size of the universe and how insignificant an accidental human life is in it, that seems most impossible." "

I agree with Hawking that it "seems most impossible" that a personal God would be interested in a relationship with an 'insignificant' human life given the enormity of the universe. On a purely intellectual level it does seem hard to believe!

Hawking, as brilliant as he is, is not the first person who display intellectual or artistic brilliance in human history. One of those brilliant human beings was a man of humble beginnings, but despite his farm-boy upbringing he shared this same perspective as Hawking. He (David) wrote, "When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—the moon and the stars you set in place—what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?" (Ps. 8:3-4)

Perhaps you can relate to these words from Hawking and David. When you look around at your corner of the universe it seems impossible that a God who relates to 'insignificants' even exists. You are not alone if this is how you feel.

Yet in the face of this impossibility men and women throughout history have attested to their intuition that such a God does exist. They have shared their experiences of personal encounter with this God who is infinitely beyond us and who comes to us in the ordinary means of human existence. Some of them even recorded their encounters so that future-humanity would have a divinely-breathed description of this impossible God.

One of these writings records this statement, "The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’ As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’ " (Acts 17:24-28)

I marvel at those rare gems of humanity, like Steven Hawking, whose minds have been unlocked with the potential to comprehend the mysteries of the universe. I am also astonished at our human ability to miss the beauty that is hidden in plain sight. I believe that one day Hawking will see and comprehend the One who is hidden to him in his brilliant theories of the universe. And one day I too, like Hawking, will see the One who has been hidden behind my theories of life, fears of the eternal, and assumptions of 'the-way-things-are.'

So I pray for Hawking and myself - and all those who read these words - that "...the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you..." (Eph. 1:15-18)

May you find the impossible God who is hidden in plain sight...

Conversation about 'Missional'

2011-03-27T08:52:00.001-06:00

Ed Stetzer & David Fitch - a missional conversation from Missional Tribe on Vimeo.

Dr. Bob Rakestraw

2011-03-11T13:28:00.003-06:00

I had the privilege of studying theology under Dr. Bob Rakestraw at Bethel Seminary. He is a humble man with an astute mind and caring heart. However, his physical heart has given him much trouble through his life. He writes an insightful blog titled The Benediction Project. May you be blessed through his observations on suffering and faith.

Cost of Discipleship

2011-01-01T10:28:00.003-06:00

The year started off with a bang in Egypt as Coptic Christians were killed leaving a New Year's Mass. 21 dead, around 80 wounded. The cost of discipleship to Jesus remains very high in many countries around the world. In the United States, it costs very little to follow Jesus. Not that I am wishing for car bombs outside of church buildings, but if they were would the majority of church attendees in the U.S. still choose to worship?

Jesus said, "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:10) No one wants to be persecuted. No one likes having their lives put in jeopardy, or having property seized by the government. But what if it was like this in the U.S., would we still choose to be disciples of Jesus?

This said news of the death of the coptic Christians in Egypt on New Years 2011 causes me to consider for myself, what price am I willing to pay to follow Jesus? Many might say that they will die for Christ, but will I live for him? Will I live as his hands and feet in the world when it inconveniences me or cost more of my time and money than I would prefer? In short, will I choose to take up MY cross daily and follow him?

Jesus calls everyone to come and follow him, but it's not cheap. The cost...my entire life.

Advent 2010

2010-12-04T10:57:00.003-06:00

The Transforming Center

2010-07-21T15:19:00.005-06:00

Over the past year and a half I have been participating in the Transforming Community program hosted by the Transforming Center. Once a quarter I travel down to the Chicago area to spend two and a half days on retreat. Our time is equally divided between large group teaching session, small group spiritual direction, and solitude. This has been a much needed and very beneficial process for me.

If you are interested in reading some of the teaching that we have been receiving, then check out either Sacred Rhythms or Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership - both by Ruth Haley Barton. They are very much worth the money!

Church and State

2010-07-01T14:46:00.002-06:00

This Sunday is the 4th of July which marks the acceptance of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress in 1776. It was the formal declaration that the 13 American colonies were no longer under the ownership of the British Empire. Many of us will enjoy this weekend by watching spectacular fireworks displays with family and friends.

National celebrations like Independence Day provide an opportunity for those of us who are followers of Jesus to consider what our relationship with any 'state' should be like? To what extent is it permisable to nationalize our faith in Jesus? If your church removed the U.S. flag from the sanctuary would you be upset? Why? To whom do we swear our allegiance as followers of Jesus?

Krista Tippet, of NPR, hosted a panel discussion with Chuck Colson, Greg Boyd, and Shane Claiborne regarding this very discussion. You can find the sound file here.

The New Cool Church

2010-05-08T18:26:00.001-06:00

"Sunday's Coming" Movie Trailer from North Point Media on Vimeo.

Circles of Support

2010-04-22T13:00:00.003-06:00

Circles of Support are not a way for the community to “take care of” the poor. Instead, they link community members from all classes, races, ages, genders and walks of life together to support individuals or families who want to make a positive change in their life.

Circles of Support strives to bring Duluth citizens together in a safe and supportive way in order to:
· Support and encourage citizens to befriend each other across class and race lines
· Break down the isolation that keeps us separated from one another
· Increase the community’s awareness of available resources and limitations
· Build community solutions to barriers that marginalized families face while living in poverty and developing an organized local commitment to improve the quality of life for all citizens
· Empower people to self-organize in order to interrupt the cycle of poverty

The emphasis of each Circle of Support is to build strong relationships, break down the misinformation people have about one another and make it possible for people having a difficult time to gather enough money, meaning and friends around them to thrive.

We all deserve:

Financial solvency - “Money”Having enough money to live without having to choose one necessity over the other; like health coverage over utilities or utilities over food.

Educational development - “Meaning”Having a good sense purpose in our lives of self and the ability to incorporate that sense of self into the many roles we play like husband, wife, mother, father, employer, employee.

Community involvement - “Friends”Building friendships and relationships that offer both encouragement and support.

Xavier Bell, Circles of Support Program Manager, will be joining us in our worship service at Bethany Baptist Church on Sundays May 16th and June 6th. You can find more information on their web site at www.communityactionduluth.org.

What is the Significance of the Resurrection

2010-04-02T14:03:00.002-06:00

The following recording is of Dr. N.T. Wright speaking to the relevance of the resurrection. This is about 1 hour long, but is well worth the time. Have a blessed Easter!!

Why Does Jesus' Resurrection Matter? Considering Its Relevance for Today Part 1 of 2 from The Veritas Forum on Vimeo.

Songs of Pain and Trouble

2010-03-25T13:36:00.003-06:00

As a pastor and worship leader, I have been noticing a glaring hole in the choices of music that I have to use in the church. Whether songs from centuries ago or more modern selections, songs that deal with the reality of pain and trouble in this life are noticably missing. At times there are a few phrases that reference a "Job" like experience, but then the lyrics quickly run to the happier side of life. But that is not how life works, does it? Pain, tragedy, suffering of all sorts rarely appears for a moment and then disappears behind shimering skies. Those I know who are dealing with the painful realities of life have been trudging through for months and years with no answers in sight. Are their songs that connect with their experiences in life?

Now there are! With some expections, JJ Heller is one of those rare artists who deal with life as it is. The following video is of her song "Your Hands." It is worth a listen.

Tim Keller on the Missional Church

2010-03-01T10:59:00.000-06:00

Christmas is Changing the World

2009-12-24T19:04:00.003-06:00

What's the best Christmas present that you have ever given? One that I remember was the Christmas when I gave my wife a bag of cat food. Really...it was good because that meant that I was giving in on getting a kitty. She was thrilled!

But cats aside, how many of the Christmas presents that you have given changed another person's life? I'm not sure any of mine have, that is until this year. This year my wife and I gave money to Living Water International in honor of several family members. Living Water Internataional works to provide clean water access to people in over 25 countries around the world. I've never been with out access to clean water, so it is hard for me to imagine living in these kinds of situations. But the reality is that over 1 billion people on this planet do not have access to clean, safe water. So a gift to Living Water International actually changes people's lives. So even though it is Christmas Eve, it's not too late to give a gift that will really make a difference. Check out their ministry at www.water.cc and consider donating any amount. Who knows, it just might change your life as well!

Living Water International

2009-11-19T09:49:00.002-06:00

During this Advent season, our church will be collecting a special offering that will go to Living Water International who works to provide clean water for those without this basic necessity of life. The following video explains more:

Advent Conspiracy 2009

2009-11-15T16:25:00.002-06:00

This year our church is participating in the Advent Conspiracy. Join us!

Video - Be My Everything

2009-10-06T09:45:00.003-06:00

I used the following music video in our service on Sunday. Enjoy!

Comedian Tim Hawkins

2009-09-24T19:40:00.002-06:00

Hey...thought this song was funny. Maybe a good marriage counseling tool?

Weddings and Funerals

2009-09-19T12:49:00.003-06:00

I have had a string of weddings and funerals in the past month and a half. In fact, this week I had the privilege of celebrating a marriage and grieving a death just three days apart. The contrast is quite stark between these two human events. Weddings, typically, are much like a birth. They are the beginning of a new thing that the Bible refers to as "one flesh," and they come with much anticipation and hope as this couple looks forward to their future together. The ups and downs that are sure to come don't carry much weight in the presence of marital bliss. There will be time enough to deal with conflict and crisis. But in this moment, celebration is the only thought.

And then there are funerals which too is a normal human event. And while we sometimes call them a "celebration of life," they are still times of grieving our loss. We all will be eulogized one day, and yet the arrival of death still feels like an assault on life. Rather than the future, it is the past that occupies our thoughts in these moments. "What if" is a more common train of thought as we pour through the pages of our history with our dearly departed. Just like a marriage, death goes with us into our future. It marks us for the rest of our lives as we hold on to the love we had for our friend, all the while stumbling towards our own last good bye.

In both of these human events we find ourselves. We find our greatest hopes and ambitions for the days that are yet to come, and we find our fears and doubts about what lies on the other side. We experience our own beauty in the face of our beloved, and we acknowledge our own brokenness as we pay our respects for another who has gone on before us.

And so we live, somewhere between celebration and grief.

Desire

2009-08-04T05:55:00.004-06:00

I have been invited as of late to consider what it is that I truly desire. The quick answer would be things like a month long vacation in the Colorado mountains, or new siding on my house. But the answer to this question lies much deeper, buried beneath the rubble of my life.

As I have been reflecting on my desire, I have come to realize that much of my Christian experience has been largely Buddhist in this arena. If I may, as an outsider, condense Buddhist teaching - the elimination of desire is the primary aim. Desire is responsible for the corruption in the world and in self, so says Buddhism. And much of my Christian experience has embraced this approach to desire. I am instructed that "all desire is sinful," according to James 1. I am told that the heart is full of sin, and so the desires that come from it cannot be trusted. And so, I have been taught that to consider my desire, as anything more than a case in point of my brokenness, is dangerous.

I recall the first time I read a little book by C.S. Lewis titled "The Weight of Glory" in which he challenges this Buddhist/Christian approach to desire. If I may paraphrase, he argues that God finds our desires NOT to big, but to small. He wrote that we are much like a small child who is content to play in a mud puddle because we cannot fathom the idea of a vacation at the beach. And so we desire much less than what God would have us to desire. And perhaps as we "grow up" in the faith, we learn to supress our desires for something more because we can't imagine that something better than what we are experiencing might be available to us.

Perhaps one of the reasons that the idea of desire has been missing in my life of faith is that the answers are to be found at such a deep place that I have tended to go about my life without even noticing them. And when they have errupted through the surface of my life, I have quickly supressed them and labeled them as momentary lapses in an otherwise desire-free Christian life. As I have in recent months spent some time considering my desires with God, I have come to realize both holy and broken aspects of myself. Desires that both surprise me and frighten me. Desires that sound very much like the image of God in me, and desires that resonate with my own sinfulness. Only in the presence of the Spirit have I felt free to consider such desires.

So Jesus comes to me and asks me, "What do you want?" "What do you want me to do for you?" And only now am I beginning to realize the answer to that question.

"Unfaithfully Yours"

2009-07-11T07:28:00.006-06:00

In the June 13, 2009 edition of TIME magazine, the cover story was titled "Unfaithfully Yours." Caitlin Flanagan wrote a wonderful essay on the state of marriage in the U.S. and how it is effecting our children and society. I was very surprised to see an article with this perspective on the cover of TIME, but it is worth a read. You can find it here.

For the less squeamish, Joel Stein wrote a humorous article on the growing trend of preserving the placenta after birth for the purpose of eating it as pill form later in life. If you dare, you can find it here.

Cell Phone Karma

2009-07-01T10:55:00.003-06:00

If you've ever had cell phones going off in a church service, you'll appreciate this commerical titled "Cell Phone Karma."

99 Ballons

2009-06-17T17:06:00.003-06:00

This is a must watch video celebrating the short life of a little boy named Eliot Hartman Mooney.

Release: What Birds Dream

2009-06-03T16:16:00.002-06:00

My good friend, Jeff Caylor, just released his second recording of all original music. Check him out here, and support his music!

There's Crying Coming From This House

2009-06-01T15:53:00.006-06:00

If you walked by our house at any given moment in the day, you might hear crying. There are different kinds of tears that are shed in this place - tears of hunger, tears of disappointment, tears of hurt, and tears of loss. Most of these tears come from my three boys as they learn to navigate life in what can be a disappointing, hurtful, and empty world. My newborn cries because he needs more calories, or because he is finished with the previous amount given to him (poop). My next youngest cries because he doesn't get what he wants, or because his older brother finished his sentence for him. My oldest cries because he has a tender heart, or because one of his special creations breaks. There's definitely crying coming from this house.

I'm thinking today, however, about other kinds of tears. There are men and women around our community who shed tears of hunger, disappointment, hurt and loss - just like my boys, yet for different reasons. And as I see the tears fall, I wonder who cares?

Both major political parties use these tears for the acquisition of more power. The social system, although it is staffed by well intended people, have all they can do to just put bandaids onto the wounds. And the Church, well I think the jury is still out on that one.

I have the privilege of pastoring a number of women and men who care deeply about these tears. They take active and practical steps to address the issues that cause them to flow. And yet, like most churches, I also have men and women whom I pastor who seem more interested in maintaining a comfortable tear-free environment. Today, Matthew 25 has come to mind where Jesus is recorded as saying that when we care for the tear stained faces (my interpretation) we are caring for Him. That sounds almost romantic, but that is really hard because it cuts against the grain of our self-focused attitudes. Time and again, Jesus calls us away from an approach to life (and Church) that asks "what are you going to do for me?" Or, "I want things done my way," to an other-focused life of love that genuinely cares about the tears that fall around our community and world.

There's crying coming from this house...but who cares?

Global Day of Prayer

2009-05-28T09:43:00.003-06:00

On Sunday, May 31st, followers of Jesus from around the globe will be gathering together to lift our hearts and voices in prayer. We will be looking to organize a gathering in the city of Duluth for the 2010 GDoP. If you are interested in being a part of this event next year, please send me an email at pstrjeff@bbcduluth.org.

Here is a video about last year's GDoP.

More Pics: Lucas & Family

2009-05-20T20:05:00.007-06:00

Our boys, Noah and Caleb, got to meet their new baby brother this morning. They were very excited to see him, and to see mom again. Caleb (5 yrs) was concerned about mom being in the hospital.

Caleb & Lucas are going to be good buddies!

Noah & Lucas clicked right away!

Introducing Lucas Glenn Hyatt

2009-05-19T20:33:00.006-06:00

Not every day contains opportunities to share in the birth of a new life into this world, but today was one of those days for me. My third son, Lucas Glenn Hyatt, was born Tuesday evening. (8 lbs, 3 0z - 22 inches) He and mom are healthy and tired! Thank you to all of you who have prayed for us. We are blessed beyond what we deserve. He will be a great addition to the two rock stars we already have (Noah, Caleb). They are very excited to both be big brothers!

"No, Mr. President" by John Piper

2009-05-13T16:45:00.005-06:00

The following link leads to a powerful video from John Piper titled "No, Mr. President." Take time to watch it and share your thoughts here!

Miss California and Gay Marriage

2009-04-22T11:38:00.008-06:00

The world is now fully aware that 2009 Miss California, Carrie Prejean, does not support gay marriage. So what exactly is the big deal? This is it: Carrie Prejean shocked the gay-marriage-supporting-community by nearly winning the 2009 Miss America Padgent. It wouldn't have mattered what Carrie's views were as long as she stayed out of the spot light. But now that she has the opportunity to say outloud what the majority of Americans think - chiefly that marriage should only be between one man and one woman - she is a threat. And the way that you deal with threats is to try to eliminate it. And so today, the many loud voices of Hollywood have launched an all out attack on Carrie's lack of intelligence, homophobia, backwards Christian beliefs, and value as a human being. Why? Because she said outloud something that Perez Hilton didn't want to hear. This, apprently, is what tolerance looks like.

So what success will this approach of attacking your opponents bring the Gay Marriage lobby? None...that is unless their attempts to silence those who disagree with them, by intimidation, works. I find it quite ironic that during a week when the President has come out strongly against the practice of defeating your enemies through torture that we have a high profile example of doing the same thing in the name of tolerance and equal rights. So look out world, hate in the name of love has found a new cause.

Vision with Charles "Mask" Lewis, Jr.

2009-04-15T11:50:00.002-06:00

I'm guessing that most of you who read this blog are not familiar with the sport of Mixed Martial Arts. It is a lot of blood and guts, and I'm not necessarily recommending it as a new hobby. However, one of the early dreamers behind the development of MMA as a self-sustaining industry was Charles "Mask" Lewis, Jr. He was well known for his face paint and all-out-there personality. And he co-founded a product line called TapouT with a few friends in those early years. "Mask" died in a car accident this week, and his memoiral service was held at the Crystal Cathedral in southern California.

I came across this video of the last interview that "Mask"gave before his death. And in it he talks about what it means to believe in the vision that you have. I think that "Mask" well articulates the needed commitment to see a vision become a reality.

Quote: The Fellowship of the Rings

2009-04-15T09:02:00.009-06:00

Okay...I am hooked on Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" triliogy as portrayed by Peter Jackson's recent movies. I was watching the first, The Fellowship of the Rings, and was struck again by this interaction between the unlikely hero - Frodo Baggins - and the wise Gandolph the Grey.

(Frodo) "I wish the ring had never come to me. I wish none of this had happened."

(Gandolph) "So do all who live to see such times, but that is not for them to decide. All you have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to you."

The pain and suffering that Frodo had to endure, which was of no fault of his own, was very real and scarry! There was nothing 'happy' to say that would retranslate his situation into an 'acceptable' scenario. And yet, Frodo (representing all of us) still had a choice of what do with the time that he had.

Even in the face of suffering, I have a choice. It is still difficult, but choices still face us. Frodo chose his path voluntarily at the council in Rivendale to take the ring of power to Mount Doom. What a freightening choice, and yet what a courageous one. As I think about Gandolph's sage advice, I wonder if I too will make such a courageous choice when faced with such daunting odds.

Sleep Running Dog

2009-04-08T10:00:00.002-06:00

Occasionally I enjoy posting a fun story or video. My wife sent me this one of a dog sleep running. Poor guy!

Faith ~ a Gift or a Response?

2009-04-01T16:44:00.007-06:00

I have been thinking quite a bit as of late regarding the nature of that thing that we call "faith." It is widely used to describe a person's 'beliefs' about all things spiritual or supernatural. Those things which we believe that surpass the realm of the natural which science can measure and probe, are relegated to the category of 'faith.'

Within the evangelical Christian community (if I may be so bold as to assume that this group actually is a 'community') there is a debate that continues to broil over this issue of faith. The fault line of this disagreement is often located in Ephesians 2:8-9 where the Apostle Paul wrote "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--not by works, so that no one can boast."

The question that is raised is in regards to the 'gift' that is mentioned. Is grace the gift? Is faith the gift? Or are both grace and faith the gift? The issue that is debated is based upon the understanding that faith is the gift that Paul references "...so that no one can boast" of their faith. This leads many then to say that a person is given faith by God and consequently it is not something that can be lost or walked away from.

As I have been studying faith, as revealed in the letter James wrote, faith appears quite strongly to be a response from a person to the saving grace of God revealed in Jesus. Rather than being a gift that is given from God to a person, faith appears to be the response of the person to God. And consequently, it is something that we are to continue to respond in (persevere) as we choose to following Jesus throughout our life.

Where does this leave us then in regards to loosing or walking away from this faith? It appears to me that since faith is a way of responding to God, then it would be possible for a person to stop responding in this way. Does that mean that they have "lost their salvation?" Thankfully I'm not the one that has to decide that for myself or anyone else. However, the call is to follow God in confidence, having faith that he really does know what he is talking about. That is a response of a living faith as revealed in the Scriptures. And that leads me into a relationship with the God who holds my future.

Confident of Not Knowing

2009-03-29T19:30:00.004-06:00

I came across the website for the Cathedral at Chapel Hill in Decatur, Georgia where D.E. Paulk is the senior pastor. They describe their church as radically inclusive in regards to all faiths. Paulk's newest book is titled "I Don't Know...The Way of Knowing." The following is the promotional material for the book from their website:

"'I Don't Know...The Way of Knowing' by D.E. Paulk. I Don't Know is the required confession needed to be granted admission to the path of enlightenment and to The Way of Knowing. I Know is conclusive, ending, finite and therefore devastating. I Know is an enemy of immortality and nemesis to The Way of Knowing. We are all infinite spirits and the offspring of the Infinite Creator. When we discover the I Don't Know within we unleash our Infinite nature and unearth the Endless Us! Are you ready to put on immortality?All Truth flows to us from One Divine River . From that One River many wells form and are fed. We might call these wells religions, cultures or philosophies. All wells sustained by the One River contain beauty and truth. However, we make a grave mistake when we declare any particular well as being the One River. I Don't Know dissolves religious division, bridges cultural chasms and dodges philosophical divorce originating from the I Know. I Don't Know is the Repairer of the Breach. In a day when the I Know is to be charged with so much human suffering - I Don't Know shines brightly as an ancient idea whose time has come of age. $20."

I find it interesting that a book is written to asert what one doesn't know. Certainly "I know" has been used to abuse many, both flowing from religion as well as in society at large. But why spend many pages encouraging people to not know something? And how confident can I be that this approch to knowing is best? Can I really know what I don't know? Humm...

"Shack Chat" at Bethel University

2009-03-27T09:09:00.003-06:00

Bethel University recently hosted a "Shack Chat" with Dr. David Clark and Dr. Steve Sandage discussing the book. I think that they have some good observations about the merits and down sides to this phenomenom of a book. The audio is here.

TIME on the New Calvinism

2009-03-24T14:03:00.006-06:00

David Van Biema wrote an article in TIME magazine regarding the New Calvinism which he sees as the most passionate group within evangelicalism. In many ways I agree with his evaluation. In part this is to the credit of new calvanism which has found a theology that stirs the imagination towards the granduer of God as the Creator and Sustainer of the Universe.

What bothers me, both for my neo-calvanistic brothers and sisters as well as for myself, is Van Biema's final paragraph. He wrote, "It will be interesting to see whether Calvin's latest legacy will be classic Protestant backbiting or whether, during these hard times, more Christians searching for security will submit their wills to the austerely demanding God of their country's infancy."

Are these really the only options? And for my neo-calvanisitc friends, is this what is bringing converts into this theology - a desire for security in the midst of difficult financial times? If so, will these new converts then re-convert to the Prosperity theology when money picks up?

And for all of us as protest-ants, how much does the historical "backbiting" that we have been identified as having engaged in now shape our thelogies and relationships with one another and the world? How are we to expect that the world will indeed find security in a real and vital relationship with God if He is represented by backbiters and naval gazers?

Are You Really Seeing What Is Going On?

2009-03-18T09:43:00.004-06:00

I was sent this video clip from a friend of a presentation on 'perception.' It is worth a viewing. How did you do?

N.T. Wright in Response

2009-03-14T08:24:00.002-06:00

On the side bar of this blog is a listing of blogs I follow. One is by Dr. Ben Witherinton III who is one of the leading New Testament scholars of our day. His most recent post is a Q & A with Bishop N.T. Wright about his book "Surprised by Hope." I am in the process of reading the book, so far it is very good. If you are interested, here is a link to this Q & A.

"How is it with your Soul?" by Ruth Haley Barton

2009-03-14T08:12:00.002-06:00

Here is the third article in Ruth Haley Barton's Lenten series. They continue to be very thought provoking as well as providing some good, practical steps. Here is the link.

The Eschatology of Jesus - 5

2009-03-14T08:10:00.001-06:00

Scot's fifth post from his eschatology series is here. He tries to tie together his thoughts from the previous four postings.

"The Coming Evangelical Collapse"

2009-03-11T08:48:00.002-06:00

This is an adaptation of the writings of Michael Spencer who blogs at InternetMonk.com. He offers a vision for a much different future for the evangelical movement of Christianity. What you think of his predictions? You can read the article here.

The Eschatology of Jesus

2009-03-10T16:12:00.003-06:00

Scot McKnight is just starting to post a paper he wrote and presented on the Eschatology of Jesus. He wrote that R.C. Sproul recently described his view as a 'partial preterist,' for those of you who care. You can find his first post here. And his second post from today, here.

The Disappearing Act

2009-03-09T17:35:00.002-06:00

According to a recent survey, the percentage of Christians is continuing to decline even as the number of Americans who claim no religious affiliation climbs. So even as the number of imimigrants from Central and Latin America who are predominately R.C. increases, professing Christians are still declinging. "Fifteen percent of respondents said they had no religion, an increase from 14.2 percent in 2001 and 8.2 percent in 1990, according to the American Religious Identification Survey."

What should this be telling us as the Church in U.S.?

"Repentance" by Ruth Haley Barton

2009-03-04T10:37:00.003-06:00

Ruth Haley Barton of The Transforming Center in Chicago. The following is the link to her second enstallment in her Lenten series. Click here.

Atheist Penn Jillette on Evangelism

2009-02-27T10:51:00.003-06:00

Penn Jillette, of Penn & Teller, is a well known atheist. He shares an encounter that he had after one of their shows with a man who gave him a Bible. Interesting observations...

Everything's Amazing, Nobody's Happy

2009-02-26T20:40:00.004-06:00

One of my friends sent me this video of comedian Louis Ck on the Connan O'brien show. There's some crude languge, but very funny observations about our society.

Lenten Article by Ruth Haley Barton

2009-02-26T12:10:00.003-06:00

Beginning in April of this year, I will be participating in an experience called "The Transforming Community" in Chicago. The focus of the program is to help pastors and other ministry staff to learn to reorder our lives and ministry in a way that leads to health and wholeness. I am looking forward to this two-year program, and how God is going to continue his transforming work in me.

One of the co-founders of the "Transforming Center" is Ruth Haley Barton. She is the author of several books, most recently Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership.

Ruth recently published an article on Lent that I found very good. This is the link.

Bell on Forgiveness

2009-02-21T09:42:00.003-06:00

Skye Jethani wrote a brief review of Rob Bell's message at the 'National Pastors Convention' on the need for forgiveness as pastors. It is worth a quick read and a long consideration. Here is the link.

Scot McKnight on the NeoReformed

2009-02-16T09:04:00.003-06:00

If you are not a regular vistor to Scot McKnight's blog ~ Jesus Creed ~ you might want to check out a new thread that he started today on his response to the NeoReformed. Here is the link.

Finishing Strong

2009-02-11T09:22:00.002-06:00

Every once in a while you come across an inspirational story. This is one of those occassions. Take the time to watch this video on Nick Vujicic.

Best Commentary Quote

2009-02-05T10:58:00.006-06:00

Okay...I have spent hundreds of hours (conservative estimate) reading commentaries on the Bible. And yesterday I came across the best commentary quote so far. Here it is:

"This whole section really hinges on these two great 'buts'."

Moyter, J.A. The Message of James, The Bible Speaks Today. p. 64.

Love, Money and Change

2009-02-04T13:36:00.006-06:00

As the winds of change were blowing across this nation, propelling our new president into office, something went unnoticed. Money. Not only did President Obama raise and spend a record amount of money in his election (all apparently legal), but now a 'love of money' is giving a knee wobbling blow to his new administration.

The new Secretary of the Treasury, Timothy Geitner, admitted to failing to pay his self-employment taxes while working for the Internaitonal Monetary Fund. In addition, claimed his children's summer camp expenses as his business expenses even after his accountant said that he couldn't. This was explained away as a "honest mistake." Really? The guy who is going to run the department that oversees the IRS doesn't know that he has to pay self-employment taxes as a person who is self-employed? Or that he can't claim little Jimmy's week at Camp Summer Fun as his work expenses? Really?

Yesterday, the latest blow was dealt to the Obama administration and our country as the nominee for the Secretary of Health and Human Services, Tom Dashle, withdrew himself from the nomination. This came after much scrambling to explain why he had not paided more than $120,000 dollars in taxes, with an additional $12,000 in fines. That is well over two years salary for my family. How is it that a multiple-term senator, once the majority leader of the senate, doesn't know to pay his taxes? And this was the guy who was supposed to fix our healthcare system? Really? This, of course, was also explained as a "honest mistake." Really?

I have not yet mentioned Nancy Killefer who was supposed to be our nations Chief Proformance Officer to make sure our government was productive with it spending. She had to withdraw because she didn't pay taxes for a couple of years on her nanny who apparently was an illegal alien. She is going to make sure our government is accountable? Really?

So what is going on? I'm not sure that anyone other than the nominees believes that any of these situations are simply "honest mistakes." It appears to me that what has happened is that these individuals, along with many other people in our country are in love. What? Yes, I said it. They are in love....with MONEY. They thought that they found a way to keep more of there money by not following the laws that they professed to uphold. And now, in the national spotlight, they have been caught in the middle of a love affair.

In 1 Timothy 6:10 the Apostle Paul wrote, "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs."

These otherwise decent people have been pierced through with many griefs because of the love affair that they have with money. And the reality is that many of us also have the same lover. Most of us keep our torrid affair a well kept secret, but every once in a while circumstances reveal our true passion.

So let the difficult and embarassing plight of these three individuals serve as a warning for you and I. Let's guard our hearts from falling in love with the seductress of money and possession, because once our hearts become attached we too are in for a hard fall.

Bushisms

2009-01-04T20:24:00.003-06:00

Whatever your opinion of President George W. Bush, you have to enjoy the many "Bushisms" that have come off his lips. This link is a collection of them.

Rowan Williams on Advent

2008-12-17T15:33:00.001-06:00

The Story of Stuff

2008-12-03T17:03:00.004-06:00

Annie Leonard has some interesting and revealing information regarding our addiction to consumption. This is a teaser clip. You can find the entire video by clicking here.

Ben Witherington ~ On Knowing God

2008-11-27T11:27:00.006-06:00

Ben Witherington has a good post on the limitations of our ability to exhaustively know God. This is worth a few minutes to read...and hours to contemplate.

Click here.

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Stand Up - Eric Bryant

2008-11-26T08:28:00.001-06:00

The following video is a recording of Eric Bryant from Mosaic Church doing a stand up comedy set. I thought he had some funny stuff. Enjoy! Happy Thanksgiving!!

George Winston - "Thanksgiving"

2008-11-19T11:04:00.001-06:00

The following video contain some beautiful images that accompany George Winston's song "Thanksgiving." I hope you enjoy!

The 'Prop 8 ' Fallout

2008-11-13T20:47:00.002-06:00

After the vote in favor of Prop 8 in Califorina that would limit marriage to one man and one woman, protests and rallies have been held to try to gain support to overturn the vote of the people. This news video was recently released showing the treatment of an older woman who was in support of Prop 8 by some supports of gay marriage. Notice the final comment by the news anchor that both sides were showing 'hate.' Where is the 'hate' demonstrated by the elderly woman?

Did God Choose Barak Obama?

2008-11-06T10:27:00.004-06:00

It has just been 2 days now since our country went to the polls to vote for our next president. As we all know, Sen. Barak Obama was the clear choice of the majority of the voting citizens. But already, I am hearing comments like this from a growing number of Christians: "God is sovereign, so he can fix this." This is a belief about God that I certainly agree with. No plan of his can be thwarted, we are told in Job 42:2.

But behind this statement about God's sovereignty I am finding an interesting contradition. What is being expressed is that we messed the vote up, so God in his sovereignty will have to override our choice. But let me ask this question, what if God in his sovereignty chose Barak Obama to be our next president? I'm not sure that this question has even crossed our minds. If this were the case, then what would our responsibilities be as Christians toward our next president?

A Thousand Questions

2008-11-03T19:01:00.002-06:00

On Saturday I was attending a meeting where this video was used. It is titled "A Thousand Questions." What do you think?

Trinitarian Subordinationism Debate at TEDS

2008-10-18T08:45:00.003-06:00

I'm glad to see that TEDS hosted this debate/discussion regarding the upswing in belief in Trinitarian Subordinationism. This view of the relation of the Trinity is the primary theological underpinning for the continued subordination of women in the Church. I don't stake my claim to either McCall or Yandell - I've unfortunately not heard of either. But I do find this doctrinal formulation pervasive in the Reformed circles of the Church. I have even been on the receiving end of the 'heretic' label over this discussion. The following article was posted at www.christianitytoday.com. Let me know what you think!

Anathemas All Around
Charges of heresy underscore stakes of debate over Trinity.
Collin Hansen posted 10/10/2008 10:47AM

Sabellianism. Arianism. Biblical authority vs. Greek philosophy. Four evangelical scholars delivered charges and counter-charges over the Trinity during an October 9 debate before about 450 people at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS). The seminary's Carl F. H. Henry Center for Theological Understanding hosted a four-man debate over the question: Do relations of authority and submission exist eternally among the persons of the Godhead?

Questions over the Trinity involve complex metaphysical matters and careful interpretation of biblical texts. Though the Trinity is undeniably crucial to Christianity's unique religious identity, church members do not always see how the doctrine relates to faith and practice. Yet the early church labored feverishly over the doctrine for centuries, with orthodoxy itself at stake in councils at Nicaea, Chalcedon, and elsewhere. Today, debates over whether the Son submits eternally to the Father have been wrapped up with questions of authority and submission between men and women, resulting in a flurry of scholarly exchange. Gender roles did not emerge as a factor Thursday night, but that did not discourage vigorous, high-stakes debate.

Former TEDS systematic theology professors Wayne Grudem and Bruce Ware returned to the suburban Chicago seminary and argued the affirmative: relations of authority and submission do indeed exist among the persons of the Godhead. They pointed to a number of biblical texts that show that while the Son dwelt among us, he submitted to his heavenly Father. This was not the point of disagreement, however, so Grudem cited additional passages, arguing that they suggest the Son has submitted from eternity past and will submit for eternity future. He turned to Ephesians 1:3-5, Romans 8:29, and John 1:14 to argue: "The role of planning, purposing, predestining — the entire history of salvation — belongs to the Father, according to Scripture. There is no hint of any such authority for the Son with respect to the Father."

John 3:16 ("God gave his only Son") reinforces this view, Grudem said. "If one sends and the other is sent, then one commands and the other obeys," said the Phoenix Seminary professor. "Yes, the Son represents the Father, but to be sent by the Father is also to be subject to the Father's authority." Grudem explained that the very terms for Father and Son would have implied authority and submission in the biblical world. Ware, currently a professor at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, followed Grudem and marshaled quotes from Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas, and numerous other theologians to support their case.

Tom McCall, a current TEDS systematic theology professor, teamed up with Keith Yandell, philosophy professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, to offer a different position. "There are no good reasons for orthodox Christians to hold to the position advocated by Drs. Ware and Grudem," McCall began, " and there are very good reasons for orthodox Christians to reject their account." He explained that both sides uphold biblical authority, both sides employ philosophical categories for understanding the Bible, and both sides can quote Bible verses. The key is which side can interpret Scripture correctly.

McCall took issue with a statement from Grudem's book Evangelical Feminism and Biblical Truth in which he argues, "If the Father also submitted to the authority of the Son, it would destroy the Trinity, because there would be no Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, but only Person A, Person A, and Person A." That view would be Sabellianism, also known as modalism — the heretical view that the one God appears to humans in three modes, not three distinct persons. Defending himself against possible charges of heresy, McCall said we may affirm that there are distinctions within the Godhead even if we don't know what they are.

McCall also challenged Grudem and Ware's interpretation of passages such as 1 Corinthians 15:28, which they believe teach the Son's eternal subordination. Here Paul states, "When all things are subjected to him, then the Son himself will also be subjected to him who put all things in subjection under him, that God may be all in all." McCall pointed out that Paul does not explain how long this subordination will last. Certainly we may not conclude from this verse, McCall argued, that Christ's subordination is "timelessly eternal or backwardly everlasting." More importantly, McCall said, "It only tells us of what is and will be — it does not tell us what must be!"

Yandell backed McCall's argument with a series of philosophical proofs. He contended that Ware and Grudem held doctrine that cannot be argued exegetically from any biblical text. He worked toward a climax that argued Ware and Grudem's view of subordination actually undermines the Trinity with a form of Arian heresy, though he did not employ that loaded term. The Arians, defeated by Athanasius at Nicaea in the fourth century, believed that Jesus was created a little lower than the Father. In Ware and Grudem's view, Yandell said, "The Son has as an essential property being subordinate to the Father and of course the Father lacks that property. So the Father has an essential property — a property that is part of the Father's nature — that the Son does not have as part of the Son's nature, and the Son has an essential property — a property that is part of the Son's nature — that the Father does not have as part of the Father's nature. This entails that the Father and the Son do not share the same nature after all."

Both sides employed technical, nuanced arguments derived from Scripture with help from philosophy. Subsequent responses between the two sides brought greater clarity to the perspectives that separate them. Ware and Grudem argued that in the economic Trinity of the Bible (the three persons as seen in the outworking of the "economy" of salvation) we see the relations between the three as they always have been and will be. But Yandell countered that what sounds biblical from Ware and Grudem actually comes through a filter of Greek philosophy that obscures the meaning of the Incarnation and Pentecost.

Yet the crowd, which filled the TEDS chapel nearly to capacity, hung on the scholars' words for two and a half hours. Yandell shared that his colleagues at the University of Wisconsin would regard this debate as pointless, like arguing over how many angels can dance on the head of a pin. So would many evangelicals, I suspect. But as the evening progressed, the intensity of discussion reminded us why the early church fought with such prolonged fervor over the Trinity. What could be more exciting and more important than sharpening each other's understanding of the nature of God?

Collin Hansen is a CT editor at large and author of Young, Restless, Reformed: A Journalist's Journey with the New Calvinists.

Moving to the RCC or EO?

2008-10-01T09:27:00.004-06:00

Scot McKnight posted an interesting response to a letter he received inquiring as to why he has not left evangelicalism in favor or the Roman Catholic Church or the Eastern Orthodox Church. It's worth the read. Click here.

Story Still Reigns

2008-08-30T20:17:00.016-06:00

Tonight my boys and I watched the Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe once again. They never get tired of it, especially the battle scenes into which they places themselves as Peter and Edward. My oldest even disappeared at one point in the movied only to return from his room with a sword. The power of the story reigns over their imaginations and draws them into the world of Aslan. As the movied started tonight I told my oldest son that the author, C.S. Lewis, intended us to see Jesus in the Aslan character. And you know what, he got it!

Even with the wonderful progress that we have experienced with the rise of the scientific age, story still reigns. The scientific theory can't hold a candle to the imagination stirring power of a good story. Lewis carefully crafted the Chronicles of Narnia during the late 1940s in Great Britian. A scholar and student of religion, one of Lewis' great accomplishments was story.

This shouldn't be a surprise to us, that story still reigns. In the late 1600s a man by the name of John Bunyan offered us another story intended to communicate the path of following Jesus. It was titled The Pilgrim's Progress from This World to That Which Is to Come. The story that unfolds on these masterfully written pages have drawn our minds into a journey that is other worldly, and yet oddly real. As we turn the pages we also become pilgrims travelling along on a journey that leads to our freedom. The power of story is nothing new, even though it still catches us by surprise.

This is what good stories do; they capture us, preoccupy our minds, and motivate us to action. We walk away from our encounter much like my sons ready to slay the White Witch and become kings in their own right. This isn't because I told them that they must become kings, or that they must take up their swords and go to battle. No, instead they were inspired by the power of a story that filled their hearts and minds with visions of things once thought impossible. One day my sons will become kings, although tonight they sleep as princes. How do I know? Because I read a story as well that filled my heart with a vision of my two boys ruling and reigning with the King. Story still reigns...the Story still reigns.

Peeking Through the Cracks at Lambeth

2008-07-27T13:27:00.002-06:00

I just read Bishop Wright's letter to the Durham Diocese at the mid point in the Lambeth Conference of the Anglican Communion. You can find it here.

As I peek through the cracks of the Lambeth conference I find bits and pieces of good ideas that might apply to the broader context in which I minister. First, Bishop Wright's description of the Indaba groups sounds like a wonderful way to build community among widely diverse particpants, and would be helpful in focusing the entire conference on Scripture. This might serve well the broader church context in which I seek to minister when addressing disputed matters of doctrine or practice. The tone might result as more collegial rather than diving straight into controvesy and debate.

Second, I found the diversity of views that are being heard and considered to be a healthy and loving way to work through what has long been anticipated to be a difficult if not contentious process. Not all can have their way, but as I peek through the cracks it appears to me that there has been an intentional process developed by Archbishop Rowan Williams to listen and discern in community what the Spirit is saying to this Anglican Communion.

I don't know about you, but this is fascinating stuff to me!

A Question of Leadership

2008-07-15T18:35:00.002-06:00

Okay, so I admit it. I am fascinated by the on going war within the international Anglican Communion. I do not watch with the least bit of pleasure, as some are in the habit of doing, but with a morbid fascination with how a group of professing Christians can destroy the institutions that they inherited by fighting for their convictions. Conservative and liberal sides appear from this side of the pond to be engaging in this on going war with the least bit of concern for a life of love in community. Not that they are the unique is this way of fighting for "godliness." I have seen this in the church that I have been a part of as well. So what possesses a group of people to eat there spiritual young in order to have their way in the present?

Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury, is attempting to lead the Communion into a place of unity at the upcoming Lambeth Conference. He has been thoroughly disparaged by both extremes in this ecclesial war on a number of issues during his tenure. Most importantly is the challenge to his quality and style of leadership, which some charge is obviously lacking in its effectiveness.

Alister McGrath was quoted as saying, "Rowan has a very high view of unity and has worked hard, but it is not going to be enough. It is virtually impossible to achieve consensus and it is very difficult to exercise leadership in that context. Leadership is about more than finding consensus - you also have to map out the route that you believe to be right." (You can read the Guardian article here.)

So, is all of this mayhem in the Anglican Communion a question of leadership? Is McGrath correct that leadership is more than finding consensus - which will most likely never going to be attained at the Lambeth Conference or any other gathering on issues of homosexuality, women bishops, and the break within the Episcopal Church USA. What happens when a leader maps out a route that they believe to be correct and the Communion/Church/Organization doesn't follow along in mass? Are they still a good leader?

Leadership is a touchy subject. Everyone wants to be their own leader, or in other words not have to take direction from someone else. Many leaders seem to be interested in maintaining and protecting their own power. And others stand back and wonder what the point of all of this is about in the first place. Is it possible for a group of Christians / Churches / Denomination to select a good leader, and then allow that person to have the authority and should come with the responsibility? And yet, can that group be able to hold their leaders accountable and still be good followers? Lots of questions...lots of sadness in the state of the Church!

House Church and the Anti-Institutional Bias

2008-07-05T09:48:00.003-06:00

I have been thinking about the "house church" movement, and the ways in which this style of doing church might be an improvement in a number of areas over our current building-oriented models. As a pastor of a building-oriented church, I wonder at the amount of money that is spent to maintain a building that is so underused on a daily basis. Our sancutary where we meet on Sunday mornings for worship is used on average for about 1 1/2 hours each week. Is that really a good use of space? The arguments are strong on both sides. One answer would be to find ways to put the building to use more frequently - either with church run programming and/or inviting community organizations to use the space for meetings, training events, etc.

The other response is what is largely found in Viola and Barna's new book Pagan Christianity. The answer that they give to this dilemma is essentially to sell the building in favor of the house-church movement, which they argue is the only biblical model. This is a challenge that I hear regularly from anti-institutional Christians who view the organized church to be a waste of money and missing the point. The anti-institutional rhetoric typically is accompanied by a call to do away with leadership structures because they too are deemed unbiblical. In my experience, these arguments usually come from people who desire themselves to be in charge, or at least be able to do/say/teach whatever they want. They have some good points, some of which I've mentioned already - money spent on buildings rather than ministry, building worship, and domineering church leadership.

As I've read and listened to those either aspiring to start a house church or have been a part of one, I hear just as many problems with these models as the 'institutional church.' Every group needs some kind of structure and mutually agreed upon ways of relating and functioning together. Every group will have various gifts and functions emerge within the fellowship of believers. And every group - house church and institutional church - can become ingrown, self-focused, and generally dysfuntional.

Viola and Barna attempt to lay a foundation for the primacy of the house-church / anti-institutional church philosophy in their book Pagan Christianity. But their arguments fall short according to Dr. Ben Witherington. You can read his review of the book here.

So, what is the best model for "church" as followers of Jesus in an increasingly global context? And is it possible to have this conversation with the incessant bickering and finger pointing and is clearly disconnected from historical reality? I hope so!

Including the Exclusivists

2008-06-30T13:48:00.003-06:00

For some time now I have been wrestling with the challenge of including exclusivists into the life of our church. I want our church to be a community that is a 'big tent,' a place where people can come and wrestle with God in the context of authentic and loving relationships. I want our gathering to be a safe place to ask questions, doubt, think, and pray; all the while pressing deeper into relationship with God. But saying that, I am aware that I am also demarcating boundaries that will at some point create a place where a person walks out from under the shade of the tent. By saying that the context should be "authentic and loving" I am drawing a boundary around artifical and caustic - callusoused and hurtful - spiritually arrogant and self-aggrandizing. And by describing the kind of community that I desire to shape as "a safe place to ask questions, doubt, think, and pray," I am drawing a boundary around the kinds of relating that are preachy, condescending, and unable to live lovingly together with others who disagree.

Exclusivists, whatever their position might be, find this kind of community repulsive. They want eveyrone to agree with their position/ doctrine/ interpretation; and their way of relating with others is typically focused on convincing and pursuading rather than encouraging, supporting, and walking in love. And when exclusivists find themselves walking out from under the shade of the big tent they tend to charge the tentminders as being divisive and narrowminded. Hence, trying to make the one time 'big tent' promoter into the one excluding the exclusivist.

The rub for me is how to be able to continue to offer inclusion in the 'big tent' to the exclusivist, and yet not allow the exclusivist to downsize the tent to allow only those who agree with them. Any thoughts?

Dobson vs. Obama

2008-06-25T09:06:00.010-06:00

The web is a buzz with Dr. James Dobson's, of Focus on the Family, comments about Democratic presidential hopeful Barak Obama's 2006 speech. Here is CNN's report from yesterday, June 24, 2008.

In response to his critique of Obama's speech, a new website has been developed at http://www.jamesdobsondoesntspeakforme.com/. Apparently it was spearheaded by the now well known Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell who most recently officiated at the wedding of President Bush's daughter Jennah.

It is possible that Dr. Dobson is correct in his critique of Sen. Obama's interpretation of the Bible. It is possible. It is also possible that Dr. Dobson is incorrect in his critique. (Scot McKnight shared his perspective on Dobson's critique here.) I'm not sure that what is at issue, really, is whether Dobson or Obama is correct; instead what troubles me is the tone and approach to the debate. I support the debate. I think Dobson has every right to challenge Obama or McCain or me on whatever issue he wants - as an American and as a Christian. But the way in which Dobson, Obama or myself approach the debate often becomes the point for the larger society. By now, I would think that Dobson would know this and seek to communicate in a more thoughtful and loving way - as an American and as a Christian.

Here's a thought from the Apostle Paul who was no stranger to debate. Ephesians 4:29-32 "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

"Almost Flew" Claymation Video

2008-05-23T10:44:00.003-06:00

This one is just for fun. My friend Jeff Caylor is a great singer/songwriter from Colorado. He just created this claymation video for one of his songs, "Almost Flew." Enjoy!

Evangelical Manifesto

2008-05-19T17:44:00.002-06:00

In recent days the Evangelical Manifesto has begun to be circulated around the Internet. This is the link to the .pdf document.

Also, Scot McKnight added a few comments on his blog.

What you guys think?

Bono at the Prayer Breakfast in 2006

2008-05-02T13:44:00.003-06:00

The following is the 27-minute speech that was given by Bono at the National Day of Prayer breakfast in 2006. As you watch this video let me encourage you NOT to look for what you disagree with Bono on, but allow your heart to be moved by the Words of God that come from his mouth. What does this mean for us as the Church, as a nation, as a family?

Bishop Tom and the Anglican Dilemma

2008-04-19T07:05:00.005-06:00

On April 12th N.T. Wright, Bishop of Durham in the Anglican Communion, gave a lecture to the gathered conferees at the Fulcrum Conference Islington. His lecture was titled "Conflict and Covenant in the Bible." Even if you have not been following the unfolding conflict within the Anglican Communion, this lecture is worth the read!

How Ought the Bible be Used?

2008-04-14T09:39:00.004-06:00

This post was initiated by _REV_ in a previous post.
I am quoting his question on this topic for our dicussion.

"Further, I still need clarification in my mind in terms of "how the Bible is used." Is appealing to the Bible the same as appealing to a math book? A phone book? An almanac? A collection of Emerson? What sort of "authority" is the Bible? And if Christian denominations cannot agree, on what basis then CAN we base our evidence to be sifted, discussed, debated???"

A Life That Teaches

2008-04-11T11:12:00.005-06:00

In the following video, John Ortberg and Richard Foster discuss the importance of living what we teach. How I live in relationship with others will do more to shape them than my words do, even though my words are also important. This dynamic is true as a pastor, but not just as a pastor. It is true as a father, a husband, and a friend. The critique of Christians being hypocrites is simply the identification that our lives do not match our words. So, as you watch this video, ask yourself - will those around me be shaped by my actions in the way of Jesus?

Click the following link to watch the video.

Heresy: Who's to Say?

2008-04-07T11:21:00.008-06:00

In 2 Peter 2:1-3 we read, "But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their shameful ways and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these teachers will exploit you with stories they have made up. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping."

I have been thinking recently about the issue of heresy or false teaching in the Church. As a pastor who provides teaching regularly, I am keenly aware of the added accountability that comes with the responsibility of teaching others how to live as followers of Jesus. James' warning (3:1) that "not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly" comes to my mind often as I study and prepare for our Sunday gatherings. I do not want to be guilty of teaching falsely how to live as a follower of Jesus, nor do I want to model poorly what that might look like applied in my real life.

But the question that has been rolling around in my mind as of late has to do with the declaration of heresy. I have been both the recipient of and a participant in the declaration of heresy in the past. With a little study of historical theology, one should be able to correctly identify current manifestations of the false teachings that the Church faced in past generations. For example, the doctrine of the Trinity has been a foundational teaching to the Christian faith since the very first Christians. So when a person desires to teach non-Trinitarian or anti-Trinitarian theology, one should be able to identify a problem. And as a pastor, my understanding of my role in the local church is to protect the congregation from this kind of teaching and as appropriate teach the church about such views and why they are outside of the foundational teachings of Scripture and the Church.

But what happens when the teaching is outside of the historically discerned heresies? Who gets to decide what is false teaching and what isn't? I suppose if I were a part of the Orthodox or Catholic churches which have a structure to deal with these teachings, I could look to those in authority for guidance. But being a part of a congregationally oriented Protestant church which has no apparatus for discerning and declaring teaching to be false outside of our Statement of Faith, I am left on my own. I can also turn to other pastors for input, but what I have found is that in many issues there is not a consensus of opinion. What I find to be biblical and helpful, others declare as heresy; and what I view as a poor understanding of the teaching of Scripture, others hold to with a devout fervor.

I am left, then, to do my best to listen to the voice of the Spirit as I read and study Scripture, and as I relate to those in my local church and beyond who want to be teachers. But I continue to have a sense that our independent approach to life and faith is leaving many open to being unfairly labeled as heretics on the one hand, and on the other leaving the Church open to false teaching. Heresy: Who's to Say?

Humingbirds and the Jesus Creed

2008-03-29T11:55:00.004-06:00

The following link is to a short article written by Scot McKnight about the connection between relationship and evangelism. Check it out!

Click Here for the Article

The Power of Submission

2008-02-28T20:09:00.005-06:00

I recently completed a series of messages titled "The Power of Submission." This video of Father and Son (Dick & Rick Hoyt) captures well the essence of how we are to live in submission to the needs of the other.

A Daily Conversion

2008-02-13T16:46:00.002-06:00

One summer sunday in 1979, I asked my father how to 'get saved.' At a very old 5 years of age, I had heard our pastor talk abou heaven and hell a number of times. I was quite sure I didn't want to end up in hell if I were to die in my sleep or by falling off my tricycle. Getting saved and avoiding hell is a big deal when you are 5 years old. Really it's a big deal at any age.

I was quite a shy kid, so after my dad explained once again what it means to get saved, and how to do it, I went into the downstairs bathroom in our little townhouse and knelt at the toilet. Yes, you read correctly. I am living proof that God can save a person on the toilet!

In the tradition that I grew up in, there was great emphasis put on one's historic conversion - the date and time that a person prayed the sinner's prayer and got saved. Our historic conversion was a source of great comfort when the waves of doubt and guilt began to hold sway over our hearts. We could look back and remember the time when we were converted and then allow the peace to come again to our troubled and fearful souls.

Recently I had the opportunity to hear Gordom MacDonald speak at a conference. In his address he spoke about the need to move away from a 'historical conversion' to a 'daily conversion.' He said that we need to continually update our conversion story at the foot of the cross. Too many of us, he argued, rely upon a time in days gone by to define our present faith. We fail to continue to be converted in the many places of our lives that still hold on to the vestiges of an unconverted heart.

I agree with MacDonald. While I certainly value that summer day in 1979 when I took my first steps in choosing to become a follower of Jesus, that solitary day does not define my life of faith in Jesus. Each day I need to be converted anew - brought to life with the rising of the Son on my life. My story is still being written, day by day, conversion by conversion.

Out of Touch

2007-12-23T17:15:00.001-06:00

Well...by the date of my last post you can tell that I have been out of touch. I plan to begin posting again in the New Year. I am looking forward to attending the Covenant MidWinter conference in Chicago at the end of January. The topic has to do with the formation of Christ-like Character as a pastor. The main speakers include Gordon McDonald and Miroslav Volf. It should be good!

Thanks for checking back to see what I have posted. Have a Merry Christmas, and I'll touch base in 2008.

~ Jeff

Journey Class ~ 4 ~ Transformation & Life in the Spirit

2007-11-07T12:30:00.000-06:00

In our class in week 4 we focused our attention on how transformation happens in our lives through the abiding presence of the life-giving Spirit. We spent some time reflecting on the focus of transformation. We used Scot McKnight's imagery of transformation being the process of being restored from broken eikons to whole eikons.

As we explored the Scriptures we came to realize that transformation into the likeness of Jesus happens in the presence of three factors ~ human effort, the power of the Holy Spirit, in the context of community. Taking away any of these three factors and we miss transformation.

We also took time to explore the Classical Christian understanding of steps on this journey of transformation ~ Awakening, Purgation, Illumination, and Union. We concluded with this quote from Adele Calhoun, "Spiritual practices exist to open us into God. They are never the "be all and end all" of discipleship. The "be all and end all" is a loving trust of and obedience to the God who is within us yet beyond us and our very best efforts."

Journey Class ~ 3 ~ The Gospel and Transformation

2007-10-04T10:56:00.000-06:00

In Mark 13:10, Jesus said "The gospel must first be preached to all nations." Whatever, the Gospel is, apparently it is so important that it must be announced to all people groups before the Kingdom will be established in its fullness. If the Gospel/Good News is this important to Jesus, then it is worth our time to find out what the good news was that he was bringing.

We spent time in Class 3 looking at the ways we commonly define or describe the Gospel. To that end, we looked at what Dallas Willard calls 'The Gospel of Sin Management,' and how that myopic view of the Gospel leaves us with an incomplete understanding of what Jesus was doing as he announced the arrival of the Kingdom of God.

In contrast to the Gospel of Sin Management, we read these words from Jesus in Luke 4:43. "I must preach the good news [gospel] of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent." The Gospel of the Kingdom was Jesus' message which speaks good news into the situation in which we find ourselves - a life of fractured relationships with God, Self, Others, and the World.

We concluded our class by asking this question: "What part does transformation play in the Gospel?" to that end we looked at Jesus call to become his disciples, to be born again, to become lovers of God and people, to be renewed as image bearers, and to live lives in union with God ~ Father, Son and Spirit.

As we conluded our time together, we came away with a realization that the Gospel which Jesus announced is so much more than simply where we go when we die. While that is certainly a good question, it is not the sum of the Gospel.

The late Robert Webber wrote in his book Ancient-Future Faith, "When I discovered the universal and cosmic nature of Christ, I was given a key to a Christian way of viewing the whole world, a key that unlocked the door to a rich storehouse of spiritual treasures." I believe that today we were issued our key!

Journey Class ~ 2 ~ The Mission of God and Gospel

2007-10-04T10:48:00.000-06:00

We laid a foundation for the remaining classes with our topic for class 2. We spent time reflecting on this question, "What is God doing in our world?" We really covered a lot of Biblical material in this class - beginning with God's good creative work in Genesis 1 & 2 and wrapping up with a sneek peak of a restored creation in Revelation 21 & 22.

I left our group with a question to answer during the week. "What is the Gospel?"

The sheer volume of the material in Class 2 left our heads swimming, but in those feelings of being overwhelmed we interestingly found new space to reimagine the Mission of God in our world. It can be a challenge to pry open spaces in our thinking in order to create incubators for new life to be born - and that was the challenge of Class 2.

Sharpened by a Friend

2007-09-21T13:55:00.000-06:00

In Proverbs 27:17 the wise man wrote, "As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." Developing that kind of friendship takes work and plenty of time, and when you are fortunate enough to arrive at that place where your friend not only is a supportive presence but also a challenging partner in transformation - you are blessed.

I have been blessed with a few friends like this in my lifetime. One such friend is Jeff Caylor. Jeff and I met in Colorado and worked together at a media agency. Jeff is a creative dude, a skillful songwriter and muscian, and a superb backpacking compatriot. He hasn't had his cake handed to him on a silver platter, and he's walked through more than his share of hurt. And out of this interesting menagerie of personality, talent, and life experience, God has shaped a man like King David who has a heart for the divine.

I asked Jeff if I could repost something he posted on his blog a week ago. He titled it "The Divine Process." Enjoy!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"The Divine Process"
by Jeff Caylor

I was listening to an interview on the radio last week with Phil Collins. Whatever you think about him today, the man was a mega-star in the eighties. After departing the band Genesis, he recorded his first solo project called Face Value. He said in the interview that if he hadn’t gotten divorced, he would have never written that album, or the outtake, throw-away piece that never made it to the final master called “How Can You Sit There.” That song was later reworked and renamed. You know it as “Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now),” his first #1 song in the US. Seriously. Up from the ash and rubble of a divorce, springs a 25-year, successful, solo music career.

Great for Phil Collins, you’re thinking. But it doesn’t do me any good. Really? You mean you never heard that (or another) song on the radio and wanted to turn it up and cry your eyes out because the one from high school that you knew was more than a friend told you she just wants to be friends? You didn’t secretly sing the words to yourself when your college sweetheart called things off? Or, sitting in your car, after another night of questioning life and trying to make sense of why you have to let go of all those memories, you didn’t wonder how Phil Collins could have found such insight into the nature of love and pain when he wrote that song? You could swap out any song about unrequited love in any genre and I’m willing to bet there’s an equally painful story behind it.

Mostly, the Phil Collins story is about redemption, to me. To be honest, I don’t know anything about Phil’s faith, but when I hear a pop song on the radio about love (or lost love, most often), I am instantly transported to the pain and hardship it required to pen those words. Words that transcend time and space and elicit memories and emotions and pain and joy in another person. Words that represented HOPE to the artist. I think about the divine process of art. Art, the Story, is something created by God and He uses whom He chooses to tell it. This process takes the pain, hope, tragedy, joy, shock and mundane of life and makes magic out of it. It shares an experience that heals both the artist and the recipient. But it’s not just about the finished product.

When Noah landed the ark, most people think it was just a few days before he and the animals walked down the ramp to a brand, spanking new earth. Unfortunately, it takes a lot longer for floodwaters to retreat than for the rain to fall. According to Genesis, they waited on the ship for several months before the bird returned with an olive branch. That’s a long time to hope. I imagine Noah and his family saved a plank from the ship, or maybe the original olive branch, as a testament to what they had been through. Something that lasted for generations to remind people of God’s faithfulness. A keepsake.

Some songs are like that.

But to me (and many other artists I’m sure), art born from pain is more than a keepsake. It represents Ground Zero–the starting point, not the ending point. The arrow that points back to an intricate, inexplicable process that has brought me to today. And if nothing else, it’s the buoy that subtly reminds me of an imminent, hope-filled shoreline just beyond the fog.