I don't know how you feel abotu worship music. I love all styles, from Acapella to P.O.D. One of the memebers of our praise band brought this song to my attention. I hope you enjoy listening to it. The Lead worshipper is Kari Jobe.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Is this your church?
Articles of Faith: Seven habits of highly ineffective churches
By ANTHONY B. ROBINSON
GUEST COLUMNIST
SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCIER
ON THE THEORY that a capacity to laugh at ourselves and our foibles is good for the soul, I recently wrote a piece for use in my own denomination, the United Church of Christ, called "The Seven Habits of Highly Ineffective Churches."
I suspect it can be generalized, with some mental editing, to temples, synagogues and other religious congregations. Tongue in cheek, here it is:
1. Elevate mediocrity to a spiritual discipline. Figure out where average falls and aim below there. Doing things with excellence, joy and flair may make someone uncomfortable. God doesn't really expect much anyhow.
2. Take no risks. A successful practice of risk avoidance is often best achieved by sending any and all new ideas to a minimum of four boards or committees who understand it's their role to say no to any new ideas. This process may need to be reinforced by remarks noting how a particular idea might make the church liable, cost money or ruffle feathers.
3. Practice the following evangelism strategy: "If they want us, they know where to find us." Assume that everyone does know where you are and what you are. It also can be helpful if your building looks like a medieval fortress. If you don't have that going for you, encourage ushers and greeters to look like palace guards as they perform their role.
4. Blame early and often. Maintaining dysfunction in a congregation is made easier if scapegoats are regularly identified. In some congregations, ministers make wonderful scapegoats. You may also blame "newcomers," or "people who don't understand how we do things in this church." If all else fails, blame the conference, the denomination or Satan.
5. Always be prepared to make an account of the excuses that are within you. Have an all-purpose excuse such as, "I've just been so busy" (elaborate at great length just how busy you are, implying that no one else is busy). Occasionally try out a creative new excuse, such as, "Our dog ate the printer-ink cartridge and required an emergency appendectomy. He is now very busy, too."
6. Make it clear to all that the job of the pastor(s) and staff is to keep everyone, meaning church members, happy. Think of your church as the "Love Boat" and the pastor as the cruise director and activity planner. The job of clergy and staff members is to keep everyone on board happy. If someone is unhappy, it's a sure sign your pastor is not doing the job.
7. Spend as little money as possible. Even though you may enjoy spending money on personal things like a car or a cruise, you can demonstrate your commitment to modesty and simple lifestyle at church. The very best programs cost nothing. And why would your church building need renovation? If it was good enough for your grandparents, it'll be good enough for your grandchildren.
By ANTHONY B. ROBINSON
GUEST COLUMNIST
SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCIER
ON THE THEORY that a capacity to laugh at ourselves and our foibles is good for the soul, I recently wrote a piece for use in my own denomination, the United Church of Christ, called "The Seven Habits of Highly Ineffective Churches."
I suspect it can be generalized, with some mental editing, to temples, synagogues and other religious congregations. Tongue in cheek, here it is:
1. Elevate mediocrity to a spiritual discipline. Figure out where average falls and aim below there. Doing things with excellence, joy and flair may make someone uncomfortable. God doesn't really expect much anyhow.
2. Take no risks. A successful practice of risk avoidance is often best achieved by sending any and all new ideas to a minimum of four boards or committees who understand it's their role to say no to any new ideas. This process may need to be reinforced by remarks noting how a particular idea might make the church liable, cost money or ruffle feathers.
3. Practice the following evangelism strategy: "If they want us, they know where to find us." Assume that everyone does know where you are and what you are. It also can be helpful if your building looks like a medieval fortress. If you don't have that going for you, encourage ushers and greeters to look like palace guards as they perform their role.
4. Blame early and often. Maintaining dysfunction in a congregation is made easier if scapegoats are regularly identified. In some congregations, ministers make wonderful scapegoats. You may also blame "newcomers," or "people who don't understand how we do things in this church." If all else fails, blame the conference, the denomination or Satan.
5. Always be prepared to make an account of the excuses that are within you. Have an all-purpose excuse such as, "I've just been so busy" (elaborate at great length just how busy you are, implying that no one else is busy). Occasionally try out a creative new excuse, such as, "Our dog ate the printer-ink cartridge and required an emergency appendectomy. He is now very busy, too."
6. Make it clear to all that the job of the pastor(s) and staff is to keep everyone, meaning church members, happy. Think of your church as the "Love Boat" and the pastor as the cruise director and activity planner. The job of clergy and staff members is to keep everyone on board happy. If someone is unhappy, it's a sure sign your pastor is not doing the job.
7. Spend as little money as possible. Even though you may enjoy spending money on personal things like a car or a cruise, you can demonstrate your commitment to modesty and simple lifestyle at church. The very best programs cost nothing. And why would your church building need renovation? If it was good enough for your grandparents, it'll be good enough for your grandchildren.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Helping a friend
This is a vidoe from fox news about a Christian sister's husband who is missing. Please watch and share it with others.
-M
http://foxnews.com/video?maven_playerId=videolandingpage&maven_referralParentPlaylistId=f2fbb2b0c994bbf2ba24f62ab95c596f8bd98bbc&maven_referralPlaylistId=df5603c3d11ca9a023b0070cfc5f297e279fd3a7&maven_referralObject=6024d24d-39a7-4821-8997-4a1bedd3ee53
-M
http://foxnews.com/video?maven_playerId=videolandingpage&maven_referralParentPlaylistId=f2fbb2b0c994bbf2ba24f62ab95c596f8bd98bbc&maven_referralPlaylistId=df5603c3d11ca9a023b0070cfc5f297e279fd3a7&maven_referralObject=6024d24d-39a7-4821-8997-4a1bedd3ee53
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Lessons learned from Fasting
Today I am ending a fast that started two week ago. As I began fasting I my close friends were asking me how long will you go , and I said " I don't know, I am hoping 40 days." Yes I wanted to be like Moses and Jesus. Fourteen days later, it is time to end. I do not know if I will ever fast for 40 days, I hope to someday, but that is up to God not me.
I never thought about fasting until 1997 when I read "The Celebration of Disciplines" By Foster. If you are Christ follower who desiress to learn tools that will deepen your walk with Jesus, then this is a good rescource for you.
I was drawn into the fast on my 36th birthday. Needless to say there was no big party, and no german chocolate cake. The reason I was drawn into the fast: There were some major issues in the lives of people that I have counseling, some things in my life, and some major issues that were affecting the church where I serve.
During the last 14 days I learned that I truly did turn to food for comfort instead of God (idolatry), that some demons need to be prayed over with prayer and fasting to get them out of people's lives and out of churches.. I gained greater insights into the things that I needed as a pastor to take authority over in my flock, and in my life. As the fast is ending I am realizing that we need to praise God continually as we are "praying without ceasing"
The scariest moment for me was when God was telling me to preach a different sermon than the one that I prepared for that week. I am propably you average joe pastor. We spend abotu 15-20 hours a week working on the sermons that god wants us to preach on Sundays. The time includes prayer, study, more prayer, practice, more prayer, honing our spirt's to listen to the Spirit, plus writng the sermon itself. That Sunday morning I had to trust God and the Divine Spirit to direct my words,to literally talk while I was the vessel. Needless to say there was a lot of wrestling in my soul, on that weekend, until I finllay preached HIS sermon. The subjuct that was covered "Tradition vs following God's word and If our hearts belong then why are they difiled?" - Matthew 15: 1-28, Collisians 2:6- 3:17
Needless to say that is was a toe stomper and butt kicker. People including me needed to repent of followign the idea's and traditions fo men, more that the word of God. That is hard to do when you have been in a church for years instead of being a church . Needless to say it is what God's people needed to hear, and we had a prayer of repentence at the end.
"You cannot be a Christian and be comfortable with your sin" - Holy Spirit
There is a lot of truth in that. We cannot be a Christ-follower, someone who is claiming to follow Jesus and then think that our sin is no big deal. It doesn't work that way. Our sin is what put him on the cross. Our sin is what cost him his life, what made him be torutred, whipped, spit on, etc. That was your sin, that was my sin, and he went through all it becasue he loves me.
Jesus loves you. This is the greatest thing that I have learned through my fasting. Jesus loves me. Above everything else that is what I needed to be reminded of, that si what I needed to hear, that si what I needed to learn. Jesus love you _______(insert your name)
Jesus loves me.
Think about it, meditate on it, go away by yourself, and just open yourself up to the reality of Jesus and his insane love for us.
Jesus love me.
Say it to yourself, say it out loud, say it proud, "Jesus loves ME!"
and then enjoy being his friend, and living like it.
M
I never thought about fasting until 1997 when I read "The Celebration of Disciplines" By Foster. If you are Christ follower who desiress to learn tools that will deepen your walk with Jesus, then this is a good rescource for you.
I was drawn into the fast on my 36th birthday. Needless to say there was no big party, and no german chocolate cake. The reason I was drawn into the fast: There were some major issues in the lives of people that I have counseling, some things in my life, and some major issues that were affecting the church where I serve.
During the last 14 days I learned that I truly did turn to food for comfort instead of God (idolatry), that some demons need to be prayed over with prayer and fasting to get them out of people's lives and out of churches.. I gained greater insights into the things that I needed as a pastor to take authority over in my flock, and in my life. As the fast is ending I am realizing that we need to praise God continually as we are "praying without ceasing"
The scariest moment for me was when God was telling me to preach a different sermon than the one that I prepared for that week. I am propably you average joe pastor. We spend abotu 15-20 hours a week working on the sermons that god wants us to preach on Sundays. The time includes prayer, study, more prayer, practice, more prayer, honing our spirt's to listen to the Spirit, plus writng the sermon itself. That Sunday morning I had to trust God and the Divine Spirit to direct my words,to literally talk while I was the vessel. Needless to say there was a lot of wrestling in my soul, on that weekend, until I finllay preached HIS sermon. The subjuct that was covered "Tradition vs following God's word and If our hearts belong then why are they difiled?" - Matthew 15: 1-28, Collisians 2:6- 3:17
Needless to say that is was a toe stomper and butt kicker. People including me needed to repent of followign the idea's and traditions fo men, more that the word of God. That is hard to do when you have been in a church for years instead of being a church . Needless to say it is what God's people needed to hear, and we had a prayer of repentence at the end.
"You cannot be a Christian and be comfortable with your sin" - Holy Spirit
There is a lot of truth in that. We cannot be a Christ-follower, someone who is claiming to follow Jesus and then think that our sin is no big deal. It doesn't work that way. Our sin is what put him on the cross. Our sin is what cost him his life, what made him be torutred, whipped, spit on, etc. That was your sin, that was my sin, and he went through all it becasue he loves me.
Jesus loves you. This is the greatest thing that I have learned through my fasting. Jesus loves me. Above everything else that is what I needed to be reminded of, that si what I needed to hear, that si what I needed to learn. Jesus love you _______(insert your name)
Jesus loves me.
Think about it, meditate on it, go away by yourself, and just open yourself up to the reality of Jesus and his insane love for us.
Jesus love me.
Say it to yourself, say it out loud, say it proud, "Jesus loves ME!"
and then enjoy being his friend, and living like it.
M
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Joel Olsteen
Howdy,
Sorry it has been son long since I last wrote. I have installed new internet filter, and have been learning. Please pray for me as I am fasting about some issues, in my life and my church.
I hope that you enjoy this video about Joel Olsteen, It is important that we know who we are listening too.
THe best for our lives--------- Jesus Christ, not a nother book by some rich preacher.
Hope you have a good one.
Sorry it has been son long since I last wrote. I have installed new internet filter, and have been learning. Please pray for me as I am fasting about some issues, in my life and my church.
I hope that you enjoy this video about Joel Olsteen, It is important that we know who we are listening too.
THe best for our lives--------- Jesus Christ, not a nother book by some rich preacher.
Hope you have a good one.
Monday, January 14, 2008
A sad reality
Last month we had to give our dog back to the pound. We loved Bizbe, but she was not a great dog for us. I live on Church property. We have a 4ft fence and an open door policy. Bizbe was blue heeler and border collie mix. She was very cute and very well behaved. Except when people would coem over. At that point Bizbe would turn into Cujo. She would jump the fence in single bound, and go after the people. "Hi welcome to your pastor's house, she won't bite!" She never bit, but she did scare a lot of people, and one time ran out the door to chase down a friends kids.
As I say crying as my wife took her back to the pound, it hit me hard that I was heart broken, over my dog and yet, I did not cry over the lost who live in the Mission Valley.
Jesus came to destroy the works of the Devil and Save the World. His commishings us to teach his word, and show them his love. Have lost this in 2008? Have we forgot about the unbelievers and there plight? I had. I got busy with Decemeber and ministry stuff. I got busy with turning around a church, and dealign with internal conflicts and the sins behind them. i got busy in the word, on ofurms, rading blogs, and forgot that people need Jesus.
Forgot that I need Jesus too.
In 2008 I want to be more aware when it's time to shut my mouth, and open my heart. I want to look at the oppurtunities that GOD places me in and then enjoy being his child, and sharing my love for Jesus with others.
Sharing my love for Jesus, that is my goal. I hope it is your too
-Mike
As I say crying as my wife took her back to the pound, it hit me hard that I was heart broken, over my dog and yet, I did not cry over the lost who live in the Mission Valley.
Jesus came to destroy the works of the Devil and Save the World. His commishings us to teach his word, and show them his love. Have lost this in 2008? Have we forgot about the unbelievers and there plight? I had. I got busy with Decemeber and ministry stuff. I got busy with turning around a church, and dealign with internal conflicts and the sins behind them. i got busy in the word, on ofurms, rading blogs, and forgot that people need Jesus.
Forgot that I need Jesus too.
In 2008 I want to be more aware when it's time to shut my mouth, and open my heart. I want to look at the oppurtunities that GOD places me in and then enjoy being his child, and sharing my love for Jesus with others.
Sharing my love for Jesus, that is my goal. I hope it is your too
-Mike
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
A baby's Hug
A Baby's Hug
We were the only family with children in the restaurant. I sat Erik in a high chair and noticed everyone was quietly sitting and talking. Suddenly, Erik squealed with glee and said, 'Hi.' He pounded his fat baby hands on the high chair tray. His eyes were crinkled in laughter and his mouth was bared in a toothless grin, as he wriggled and giggled with merriment.
I looked around and saw the source of his merriment. It was a man whose pants were baggy with a zipper at half-mast and his toes poked out of would-be shoes. His shirt was dirty and his hair was uncombed and unwashed. His whiskers were too short to be called a beard and his nose was so varicose it looked like a road map.
We were too far from him to smell, but I was sure he smelled. His hands waved and flapped on loose wrists. 'Hi there, baby; hi there, big boy. I see yaw, buster,' the man said to Erik.
My husband and I exchanged looks, 'What do we do?' Erik continued to laugh and answer, 'Hi.' Everyone in the restaurant noticed and looked at us and then at the man. The old geezer was creating a nuisance with my beautiful baby.
Our meal came and the man began shouting from across the room, 'Do ya patty cake? Do you know peek-a-boo? Hey, look, he knows peek-a-boo.' Nobody thought the old man was cute. He was obviously drunk.
My husband and I were embarrassed. We ate in silence; all except for Erik, who was running through his repertoire for the admiring skid-row bum, who in turn, reciprocated with his cute comments.
We finally got through the meal and headed for the door. My husband went to pay the check and told me to meet him in the parking lot. The old man sat poised between me and the door. 'Lord, just let me out of here before he speaks to me or Erik,' I prayed.
As I drew closer to the man, I turned my back trying to sidestep him and avoid any air he might be breathing. As I did, Erik leaned over my arm, reaching with both arms in a baby's 'pick-me-up' position. Before I could stop him, Erik had propelled himself from my arms to the man.
Suddenly a very old smelly man and a very young baby consummated their love and kinship. Erik in an act of total trust, love, and submission laid his tiny head upon the man's ragged shoulder. The man's eyes closed, and I saw tears hover beneath his lashes. His aged hands full of grime, pain, and hard labor, cradled my baby's bottom and stroked his back. No two beings have ever loved so deeply for so short a time.
I stood awestruck. The old man rocked and cradled Erik in his arms and his eyes opened and set squarely on mine. He said in a firm commanding voice, 'You take care of this baby.'
Somehow I managed, 'I will,' from a throat that contained a stone.
He pried Erik from his chest, lovingly and longingly, as though he were in pain. I received my baby, and the man said, 'God bless you, ma'am, you've given me my Christmas gift.'
I said nothing more than a muttered thanks. With Erik in my arms, I ran for the car. My husband was wondering why I was crying and holding Erik so tightly, and why I was saying, 'My God, my God, forgive me.'
I had just witnessed Christ's love shown through the innocence of a tiny child who saw no sin, who made no judgment; a child who saw a soul, and a mother who saw a suit of clothes. I was a Christian who was blind, holding a child who was not. I felt it was God asking, 'Are you willing to share your son for a moment?' when He shared His for all eternity.
The ragged old man, unwittingly, had reminded me, 'To enter the Kingdom of God, we must become as little children.'
We must always remember who we are, where we came from and, most importantly, how we feel about others. The clothes on your back or the car that you drive or the house that you live in does not define you at all; it is how you treat your fellow man that identifies who you are.
We were the only family with children in the restaurant. I sat Erik in a high chair and noticed everyone was quietly sitting and talking. Suddenly, Erik squealed with glee and said, 'Hi.' He pounded his fat baby hands on the high chair tray. His eyes were crinkled in laughter and his mouth was bared in a toothless grin, as he wriggled and giggled with merriment.
I looked around and saw the source of his merriment. It was a man whose pants were baggy with a zipper at half-mast and his toes poked out of would-be shoes. His shirt was dirty and his hair was uncombed and unwashed. His whiskers were too short to be called a beard and his nose was so varicose it looked like a road map.
We were too far from him to smell, but I was sure he smelled. His hands waved and flapped on loose wrists. 'Hi there, baby; hi there, big boy. I see yaw, buster,' the man said to Erik.
My husband and I exchanged looks, 'What do we do?' Erik continued to laugh and answer, 'Hi.' Everyone in the restaurant noticed and looked at us and then at the man. The old geezer was creating a nuisance with my beautiful baby.
Our meal came and the man began shouting from across the room, 'Do ya patty cake? Do you know peek-a-boo? Hey, look, he knows peek-a-boo.' Nobody thought the old man was cute. He was obviously drunk.
My husband and I were embarrassed. We ate in silence; all except for Erik, who was running through his repertoire for the admiring skid-row bum, who in turn, reciprocated with his cute comments.
We finally got through the meal and headed for the door. My husband went to pay the check and told me to meet him in the parking lot. The old man sat poised between me and the door. 'Lord, just let me out of here before he speaks to me or Erik,' I prayed.
As I drew closer to the man, I turned my back trying to sidestep him and avoid any air he might be breathing. As I did, Erik leaned over my arm, reaching with both arms in a baby's 'pick-me-up' position. Before I could stop him, Erik had propelled himself from my arms to the man.
Suddenly a very old smelly man and a very young baby consummated their love and kinship. Erik in an act of total trust, love, and submission laid his tiny head upon the man's ragged shoulder. The man's eyes closed, and I saw tears hover beneath his lashes. His aged hands full of grime, pain, and hard labor, cradled my baby's bottom and stroked his back. No two beings have ever loved so deeply for so short a time.
I stood awestruck. The old man rocked and cradled Erik in his arms and his eyes opened and set squarely on mine. He said in a firm commanding voice, 'You take care of this baby.'
Somehow I managed, 'I will,' from a throat that contained a stone.
He pried Erik from his chest, lovingly and longingly, as though he were in pain. I received my baby, and the man said, 'God bless you, ma'am, you've given me my Christmas gift.'
I said nothing more than a muttered thanks. With Erik in my arms, I ran for the car. My husband was wondering why I was crying and holding Erik so tightly, and why I was saying, 'My God, my God, forgive me.'
I had just witnessed Christ's love shown through the innocence of a tiny child who saw no sin, who made no judgment; a child who saw a soul, and a mother who saw a suit of clothes. I was a Christian who was blind, holding a child who was not. I felt it was God asking, 'Are you willing to share your son for a moment?' when He shared His for all eternity.
The ragged old man, unwittingly, had reminded me, 'To enter the Kingdom of God, we must become as little children.'
We must always remember who we are, where we came from and, most importantly, how we feel about others. The clothes on your back or the car that you drive or the house that you live in does not define you at all; it is how you treat your fellow man that identifies who you are.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Blog Reading Level
Get a Cash Advance
not to bad for a dyslexic!
I hope that you all taking some time out for Christ this Holy Day season.
I will post soon about a sad revelation I have made in my life concerning a dog we had to get rid of
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays?
I think you might enjoy this:
http://www.citizenlink.org/Stoplight/A000005834.cfm
http://www.citizenlink.org/Stoplight/A000005834.cfm
Monday, December 03, 2007
Your Lazy Pastor
This was shared with me the other day. Many people have forgotten that everyone is suppossed to be serving the church, not just the pastor.
I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.
Mike
Your Lazy Pastor
11/27/07 11:21 PM
Several weeks ago, during our "Simple Church" series I had a new person admit to me that during one of my messages his first thought was, "This Pastor must be lazy." On the outside, when I first heard his comments I'm sure I looked very inquisitive and interested in his thoughts. Truthfully, on the inside I had thoughts of, "What!? Are you crazy? I've been called many things over the years - lazy is not one of them. Even the people who have left our church with their panties tightly in a wad over something and who have a long list of names for me, none of them are lazy. Let's go outside and I'll show you lazy!"
What brought about his thought? Here's some of what I said in that message: I talked about the importance of being connected in the community of a Small Group and my role as Pastor. According to Ephesians 4:11-13 my primary job is to prepare God's people for ministry. I am not supposed to do all the ministry. I am to equip God's people - you - to serve. Now, that doesn't mean that I get a pass as far as serving is concerned. It doesn't mean that I don't take up the towel and basin and wash people's feet. It doesn't mean that I don't get my hands dirty. It simply means that the church functions best when I am fulfilling my role as spiritual trainer, not everyone's personal partner.
In my message I said that in many churches people see the Pastor as the person who is personally responsible for everyone, all their needs and their spiritual growth - where I run around individually training everyone, where I know each person individually, your family, your extended family, and even your pets. I said that if you want that - you’re in the wrong place. That’s why most churches in America never grow beyond 150 people, because people think that the Pastor is their own personal trainer and partner.
The Biblical model is for Pastors to teach and motivate and inspire in the large gathering and then for the Body of Christ to help each other live it out in community. I care about you - I really do. That’s why I pray and lead and serve. But I can’t care for every one of you. If this church’s growth is dependent on how many people I know - this is it - we’re done. I talked about how people come to church and then miss a few weeks and get upset when no one calls to check up on them. If you think that my job is to come whenever you call or call whenever you don't show up and be your personal trainer and your spiritual police, you're in the wrong place. And if you think that's what you pay me to do - keep your money and go somewhere else.
There have been times in my ministry where I pridefully did all those things - took care of everyone. I took pride in working harder and longer, earlier and later than anyone. I would even be critical of larger churches and other Pastors, saying things like, "I bet that Pastor doesn't do everything I do. I bet he doesn't care for people like I do. I bet those people don't personally know their Pastor like my church does." God forgive me for my pride. I repent. No more. If lazy means saying no, then call me lazy. If lazy means taking a day off once a week, then call me lazy. If lazy means putting the needs of my wife and children above the church calendar, then call me lazy. If lazy means taking a vacation and missing a Sunday, then call me lazy. If lazy means not dying early of stress, hypertension, and high blood pressure, then by all means call me lazy.
We have a vehicle for love, care-giving, shepherding, teaching, and discipleship. It's called being connected in the community of a Small Group. If you miss a Sunday, they'll know you're not there. If you're in the hospital, I'll bet they'll come and visit you. They might even bring you a meal or two.
The new guy did tell me that at the end of my message, he understood what I was saying. It made sense. He even came back and volunteered. I was talking about all of us, everyone, being the church. Are you connected? Who are you loving, serving, and caring for? Who are you living out your faith with? I am learning that at times it seems easier to do it yourself. However, it is smarter, better, and Biblical for me build teams and equip others to serve.
I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.
Mike
Your Lazy Pastor
11/27/07 11:21 PM
Several weeks ago, during our "Simple Church" series I had a new person admit to me that during one of my messages his first thought was, "This Pastor must be lazy." On the outside, when I first heard his comments I'm sure I looked very inquisitive and interested in his thoughts. Truthfully, on the inside I had thoughts of, "What!? Are you crazy? I've been called many things over the years - lazy is not one of them. Even the people who have left our church with their panties tightly in a wad over something and who have a long list of names for me, none of them are lazy. Let's go outside and I'll show you lazy!"
What brought about his thought? Here's some of what I said in that message: I talked about the importance of being connected in the community of a Small Group and my role as Pastor. According to Ephesians 4:11-13 my primary job is to prepare God's people for ministry. I am not supposed to do all the ministry. I am to equip God's people - you - to serve. Now, that doesn't mean that I get a pass as far as serving is concerned. It doesn't mean that I don't take up the towel and basin and wash people's feet. It doesn't mean that I don't get my hands dirty. It simply means that the church functions best when I am fulfilling my role as spiritual trainer, not everyone's personal partner.
In my message I said that in many churches people see the Pastor as the person who is personally responsible for everyone, all their needs and their spiritual growth - where I run around individually training everyone, where I know each person individually, your family, your extended family, and even your pets. I said that if you want that - you’re in the wrong place. That’s why most churches in America never grow beyond 150 people, because people think that the Pastor is their own personal trainer and partner.
The Biblical model is for Pastors to teach and motivate and inspire in the large gathering and then for the Body of Christ to help each other live it out in community. I care about you - I really do. That’s why I pray and lead and serve. But I can’t care for every one of you. If this church’s growth is dependent on how many people I know - this is it - we’re done. I talked about how people come to church and then miss a few weeks and get upset when no one calls to check up on them. If you think that my job is to come whenever you call or call whenever you don't show up and be your personal trainer and your spiritual police, you're in the wrong place. And if you think that's what you pay me to do - keep your money and go somewhere else.
There have been times in my ministry where I pridefully did all those things - took care of everyone. I took pride in working harder and longer, earlier and later than anyone. I would even be critical of larger churches and other Pastors, saying things like, "I bet that Pastor doesn't do everything I do. I bet he doesn't care for people like I do. I bet those people don't personally know their Pastor like my church does." God forgive me for my pride. I repent. No more. If lazy means saying no, then call me lazy. If lazy means taking a day off once a week, then call me lazy. If lazy means putting the needs of my wife and children above the church calendar, then call me lazy. If lazy means taking a vacation and missing a Sunday, then call me lazy. If lazy means not dying early of stress, hypertension, and high blood pressure, then by all means call me lazy.
We have a vehicle for love, care-giving, shepherding, teaching, and discipleship. It's called being connected in the community of a Small Group. If you miss a Sunday, they'll know you're not there. If you're in the hospital, I'll bet they'll come and visit you. They might even bring you a meal or two.
The new guy did tell me that at the end of my message, he understood what I was saying. It made sense. He even came back and volunteered. I was talking about all of us, everyone, being the church. Are you connected? Who are you loving, serving, and caring for? Who are you living out your faith with? I am learning that at times it seems easier to do it yourself. However, it is smarter, better, and Biblical for me build teams and equip others to serve.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
My Favorite Christmas Video
I have always found this following song to be one the prettiest songs that I ever heard growing up. I hope that you enjoy it.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Go and Vote!
Hey all,
Just a quick update on my question to Mark Driscoll. Currently it is in the top 9. I believe we are #4. You might be wondering why I would ask a question about baptism. The reason: Baptism is a topic that has divided the church for the last 500 years. Before the Reformation, baptism was considered for the forgivness of sins, and were one recives the gift of the Holy Spirit. This is view based off of Acts 2:38, Acts 22:16 and other Bible Verses. It also the view found in the Nicene Creed, and that of the Anti-Nicene Fathers. That is the view my church and millions of churches around the world and through out history hold. Today this view on baptism is very unpopular. Many churches do not teach on Romans 6, Acts 2:36, Acts 22:16, Col 2 or from the writings of Early Church (first 300 years) and/or look into the Jewish roots of baptism.
So no matter how feel about baptism please go and vote for my question. At the very least according to the rules, Pastor Mark Driscoll, will have have to answer it. At some point I will start to publish my research on the topic of baptism.
http://askanything.marshillchurch.org/
-Mike
Just a quick update on my question to Mark Driscoll. Currently it is in the top 9. I believe we are #4. You might be wondering why I would ask a question about baptism. The reason: Baptism is a topic that has divided the church for the last 500 years. Before the Reformation, baptism was considered for the forgivness of sins, and were one recives the gift of the Holy Spirit. This is view based off of Acts 2:38, Acts 22:16 and other Bible Verses. It also the view found in the Nicene Creed, and that of the Anti-Nicene Fathers. That is the view my church and millions of churches around the world and through out history hold. Today this view on baptism is very unpopular. Many churches do not teach on Romans 6, Acts 2:36, Acts 22:16, Col 2 or from the writings of Early Church (first 300 years) and/or look into the Jewish roots of baptism.
So no matter how feel about baptism please go and vote for my question. At the very least according to the rules, Pastor Mark Driscoll, will have have to answer it. At some point I will start to publish my research on the topic of baptism.
http://askanything.marshillchurch.org/
-Mike
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
I Love Jesus
This last week I preached from John 12:1-11. It is the story of the Dinner Party held in Christ honor, before he enters Jerusalem for his final week on earth. Martha is serving people, Lazarus is telling people about what Jesus did for his life, and Mary is at the feet of Creator.
In reality this is a story of people who love Jesus. Martha serves others because she loves Jesus. Lazarus is a walking billboard of God's love and power, because he loves Jesus and Mary is washing her friends feet with expensive perfume, because she loves Jesus.
Most of the time growing up I remember hearing Jesus loves you, that's why we do this or that.
I want to change that idea. I love Jesus. I mess up, I sin, I make a mockery out of being a pastor, and I still love Jesus.
I love him, and that is why I serve him and his church. That is why I post on blogs, and counsel people. I love Jesus.
I love him and that is what affords me the opportunities to resist Satan, and fight temptation. I don't do certain things, because I love Jesus.
I love Jesus. I love that fact that when I fall. I can come to him and say "I'm sorry, please forgive me, help me. I can't do it on my own."
I love Jesus and it is the love that I have for him, that drives me to confess my sin, to read His word, to Sing his praises, and to share his love for me, and the Love I have for him with others.
"I love Jesus" - Let that be our rallying cry, let that be our motto, our mantra, when times are tough, and when times are great.
"I love Jesus"
I hope you do too.
-M
In reality this is a story of people who love Jesus. Martha serves others because she loves Jesus. Lazarus is a walking billboard of God's love and power, because he loves Jesus and Mary is washing her friends feet with expensive perfume, because she loves Jesus.
Most of the time growing up I remember hearing Jesus loves you, that's why we do this or that.
I want to change that idea. I love Jesus. I mess up, I sin, I make a mockery out of being a pastor, and I still love Jesus.
I love him, and that is why I serve him and his church. That is why I post on blogs, and counsel people. I love Jesus.
I love him and that is what affords me the opportunities to resist Satan, and fight temptation. I don't do certain things, because I love Jesus.
I love Jesus. I love that fact that when I fall. I can come to him and say "I'm sorry, please forgive me, help me. I can't do it on my own."
I love Jesus and it is the love that I have for him, that drives me to confess my sin, to read His word, to Sing his praises, and to share his love for me, and the Love I have for him with others.
"I love Jesus" - Let that be our rallying cry, let that be our motto, our mantra, when times are tough, and when times are great.
"I love Jesus"
I hope you do too.
-M
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Willow Creek Finally Get's It right?
For years I have been telling people, that church is not about programs it is abotu helping people discovery and self feed on Jesus. I was told that I was wrong, I was made fun of, mocked and riled.
Please Read this link, and see the videos, it seems to me, that one of America's largest and well known churches has joined me in this thought process. We need to make disciples, not programs.
http://blog.christianitytoday.com/outofur/archives/2007/10/willow_creek_re.html
Please Read this link, and see the videos, it seems to me, that one of America's largest and well known churches has joined me in this thought process. We need to make disciples, not programs.
http://blog.christianitytoday.com/outofur/archives/2007/10/willow_creek_re.html
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
My Dream Church has an Opening...
AND I AM NOT INTERASTED
Last night out I found out that my dream church will have an opening for their Preaching Minister. The man who has beenthere is great man of God. I know all the elders, and most of the other ministerial staff. I have preached at a church in the town that the man grew up. I preached at atown close to where he did his grad work, and I even attended my dream church and met my wife there.
But I don't want it. I want to stay where I am at, and enjoy my time here in Montana. I want to see how God continues to shape and lead this little church, into a church that is reaching our Valley for the Lord.
Yes, a bigger church might be nice. Yes, already having known all the elders, thier wives, teaching some of thier kids, and praying with these men would be wonderful. But, it is not Montana, and it is not about the size of your church, or you wallet.
It is about serving God where he has you.
And He has me at the best place I've ever been, surrounded by people that love me, and love my family. I love these people here. I love that as one my leaders put's it "Simple farmers" figuring out things.
In Ministry we wil always have places that "might be" That "what might of been", or "I hope someday". But we are asked to live for today, to serve God today, to shepherd Christ flock today, where HE has placed us to serve.
I might never have a church of a 1,000 or sell books, and bible studies. I might never hae a lot of recongination. But I have Jesus what else do I really need?
May our Lord and Savior bless you this day.
-Mike
Last night out I found out that my dream church will have an opening for their Preaching Minister. The man who has beenthere is great man of God. I know all the elders, and most of the other ministerial staff. I have preached at a church in the town that the man grew up. I preached at atown close to where he did his grad work, and I even attended my dream church and met my wife there.
But I don't want it. I want to stay where I am at, and enjoy my time here in Montana. I want to see how God continues to shape and lead this little church, into a church that is reaching our Valley for the Lord.
Yes, a bigger church might be nice. Yes, already having known all the elders, thier wives, teaching some of thier kids, and praying with these men would be wonderful. But, it is not Montana, and it is not about the size of your church, or you wallet.
It is about serving God where he has you.
And He has me at the best place I've ever been, surrounded by people that love me, and love my family. I love these people here. I love that as one my leaders put's it "Simple farmers" figuring out things.
In Ministry we wil always have places that "might be" That "what might of been", or "I hope someday". But we are asked to live for today, to serve God today, to shepherd Christ flock today, where HE has placed us to serve.
I might never have a church of a 1,000 or sell books, and bible studies. I might never hae a lot of recongination. But I have Jesus what else do I really need?
May our Lord and Savior bless you this day.
-Mike
Monday, October 22, 2007
Ask Anything
Pastor Mark Driscoll of Mars Hill Church in Seattle will be starting anew series in Januray answering the top 9 questions that people pose to him. I have posed a question about his beleifs with the subject of baptism. I ask that you vote this topic, because I would love to hear what Mark has to say about baptism, using Scripture, Jewish teachings, and Early Church beleifs.
Please vote often and daily. You can vote up to 10 times a day. If we vote 10x a day for the till Novemeber 1st, we have a gret chance of Mark answering this question.
http://askanything.marshillchurch.org/alphas/681-what-do-you-teach-on-baptism-romans-6-3-7-acts-2-38-acts-22-16-gal-3-27-1-peter-3-20-21-eph-1-3-14-mark-16-15-jewish-history-early-church-or-do-you-teach-zwingli-who-stated-the-apostles-were-wrong
Thank you,
M
Please vote often and daily. You can vote up to 10 times a day. If we vote 10x a day for the till Novemeber 1st, we have a gret chance of Mark answering this question.
http://askanything.marshillchurch.org/alphas/681-what-do-you-teach-on-baptism-romans-6-3-7-acts-2-38-acts-22-16-gal-3-27-1-peter-3-20-21-eph-1-3-14-mark-16-15-jewish-history-early-church-or-do-you-teach-zwingli-who-stated-the-apostles-were-wrong
Thank you,
M
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Understanding Women.
One of the hardest things for a man to understand is a woman. God has created us differently and with different roles within the family, the home, the church and society.
When it comes to a Godly Woman we easily point to the biblical standard of Proverbs 31, Eve was called a help mate, etc. You might not be a Proverbs 31 woman right now, but by God's love and Grace, he can transform into this type of woman. Men we need allow our wives to be this type of woman, and we must love her like Christ Loved the Church.
As many of you know I am straight shooter. I tell the truth in Love, and alot of times it comes out as tough love. One of my goals for this year is to be gentler Pastor. Most men like my straight forward no-nonsense approach it speaks to their inner warrior. We like Jesus the Hero. He died for other people. Women like the Jesus with the Children and Lamb of God. Both forget that Jesus in Revelation is shown as King and a Lamb is butchered, battered and in the end pronouncing judgement on people as they are eternally consumed in the fires of hell.
But back to my point. I have bought a book today, that I hope will help me better serve the women of my church. The book is called "What women wish Pastors Knew: Understanding the Hopes, Hurts, Needs and Dream of Women in the church"
I have feeling that I am going to learn a lot and get a little butt-kicking. At the end I believe I will be able to minister to the women of my church and community better. One of my goals it be a better all around pastor, as I serve Christ and His Church.
-IW
Monday, October 08, 2007
Another Blog
Good morning all,
I hope that you had a good Sunday, and that you found a place to worship and serve the Lord. I wanted to give you an update about about a new blog community I part of it is called "Centrist Christianity" http://centristchristianity.blogspot.com/
I am one of the writers of this blog that mixes points of views from different people in the Christian Walk. I will be bringing in a conservative leaning moderate point of view. My Theology is conservative, whiles others are not. There should be some good discussion and debates in the coming months.
Some people wonder why I use Imperfect Warriot, instead of my real name. It is for protection. I have herd too many stories of ministers churches being contacted about what thier pastor was writing on his blog or message boards. The leaders of my church know that where I blog and where I psot on forums. I am accountabel to these men, and to the Lord, my Savior. We do not need any trouble makers trying to do what they do best - cause trouble- in our place of worship. That is why I do not use my real name.
I will continue to try to update this blog weekly. Sorry abotu last week. THe in-laws were in, and I was busy with them, and my normal preacher duties.
May God shine richely on you today.
-IW
I hope that you had a good Sunday, and that you found a place to worship and serve the Lord. I wanted to give you an update about about a new blog community I part of it is called "Centrist Christianity" http://centristchristianity.blogspot.com/
I am one of the writers of this blog that mixes points of views from different people in the Christian Walk. I will be bringing in a conservative leaning moderate point of view. My Theology is conservative, whiles others are not. There should be some good discussion and debates in the coming months.
Some people wonder why I use Imperfect Warriot, instead of my real name. It is for protection. I have herd too many stories of ministers churches being contacted about what thier pastor was writing on his blog or message boards. The leaders of my church know that where I blog and where I psot on forums. I am accountabel to these men, and to the Lord, my Savior. We do not need any trouble makers trying to do what they do best - cause trouble- in our place of worship. That is why I do not use my real name.
I will continue to try to update this blog weekly. Sorry abotu last week. THe in-laws were in, and I was busy with them, and my normal preacher duties.
May God shine richely on you today.
-IW
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