Christianity is Spelled Done
From a sermon by Mark Batterson:
In the words of Bill Hybels, religion is spelled do. Christianity is spelled done.
It is so easy to base our identity on how we look, what we know, or how much we have. In fact, sometimes it is easier to base your identity on the wrong thing when you look better or know more or have more. That was certainly the case with Nebuchadnezzar. But the only sure foundation is basing our identity on what God has done for us at the cross.
In the words of Romans 12:3: “The only accurate way to understand ourselves is by who God is and what God does.”
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Using Time More Effectively
One of the most common excuses (lies we tell ourselves, right?) is that we don't have time to. Check out these excellent time effectiveness tips for people like you who want to be more effective in ministry!
One of the most common excuses (lies we tell ourselves, right?) is that we don't have time to
We Are At Our Best When...
Though this article is specifically about pastors, I recommend you read it and think about fathers and husbands. To sum up,
We are at our best when we help move men and women toward the kingdom of heaven.
We are at our best when men and women in the community can really be better off because of our ministry.
We are at our best when the people in our church can trust our integrity.
We are at our best when we, as leaders, stay focused on what is most important.
We are at our best when through our ministry the hearts and lives of the people are changing.
Though this article is specifically about pastors, I recommend you read it and think about fathers and husbands. To sum up,
We are at our best when we help move men and women toward the kingdom of heaven.
We are at our best when men and women in the community can really be better off because of our ministry.
We are at our best when the people in our church can trust our integrity.
We are at our best when we, as leaders, stay focused on what is most important.
We are at our best when through our ministry the hearts and lives of the people are changing.
Where's the Beef?
Hmmm.... Pope Benedict accurately quotes a 14th-century emperor, Manuel II Paleologus, who said ""Show me just what Mohammed brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached."
And just as with Dutch cartoons, and a poor novel, riots erupt from the "religion of peace."
I was disappointed to hear Pope Benedict's apology for quoting this, and for saying that he personally disagrees with Paleologus. Because I think Paleologus was right, and have been proved right in the centuries since. And we need to say so.
I can hear Margaret Thatcher saying, "This is not the time to go wobbly."
Let us make Jesus the central issue.
Hmmm.... Pope Benedict accurately quotes a 14th-century emperor, Manuel II Paleologus, who said ""Show me just what Mohammed brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached."
And just as with Dutch cartoons, and a poor novel, riots erupt from the "religion of peace."
I was disappointed to hear Pope Benedict's apology for quoting this, and for saying that he personally disagrees with Paleologus. Because I think Paleologus was right, and have been proved right in the centuries since. And we need to say so.
I can hear Margaret Thatcher saying, "This is not the time to go wobbly."
Let us make Jesus the central issue.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
iChurch -- Consumer approach
I appreciated the insights in this article about individual choice in churches superceding commitments. I need to meditate more on how I myself have incorrect ideas about a consumer-value God. Check it out for yourself.
I appreciated the insights in this article about individual choice in churches superceding commitments. I need to meditate more on how I myself have incorrect ideas about a consumer-value God. Check it out for yourself.
Could We Hear Something Like This Today?
Franklin Roosevelt said in his Jan. 6, 1942, State of the Union mesage, "The world is too small... for both Hitler and God...The Nazis have now announced their plan for enforcing their... pagan religion all over the world -- a plan by which the Holy Bible and the Cross of Mercy would be displaced by Mein Kampf and the swastika." He said in an April 28, 1942, fireside chat, "This great war effort must be carried through to its victorious conclusion... It shall not be imperiled by the handful of noisy traitors -- betrayers of America, betrayers of Christianity itself -- would-be dictators who in their hearts and souls have yielded to Hitlerism and would have this Republic do likewise."
Source: World Magazine blog
Franklin Roosevelt said in his Jan. 6, 1942, State of the Union mesage, "The world is too small... for both Hitler and God...The Nazis have now announced their plan for enforcing their... pagan religion all over the world -- a plan by which the Holy Bible and the Cross of Mercy would be displaced by Mein Kampf and the swastika." He said in an April 28, 1942, fireside chat, "This great war effort must be carried through to its victorious conclusion... It shall not be imperiled by the handful of noisy traitors -- betrayers of America, betrayers of Christianity itself -- would-be dictators who in their hearts and souls have yielded to Hitlerism and would have this Republic do likewise."
Source: World Magazine blog
Friday, September 15, 2006
How's Your Prayer Life?
Over the years I've found that asking this question will humble almost everyone: "How's your prayer life? Is it what it should be?" Certainly humbles me!
No matter what your calling as a spiritual leader, you need to be diligent about prayer.
Here's some useful, practical advice from Rick Warren.
Over the years I've found that asking this question will humble almost everyone: "How's your prayer life? Is it what it should be?" Certainly humbles me!
No matter what your calling as a spiritual leader, you need to be diligent about prayer.
Here's some useful, practical advice from Rick Warren.
Faith Fall-off in Twenties?
New report from Barna suggests that most twenty-somethings who actively practiced their faith in their teens struggle to continue.
Question I have is whether we've created a sigutatino in our youth programs where there is so muhc external structure propping up their faith practices that when those are removed, there is too little internalized discipline, practice, and commitment remaining to sustain it.
New report from Barna suggests that most twenty-somethings who actively practiced their faith in their teens struggle to continue.
Question I have is whether we've created a sigutatino in our youth programs where there is so muhc external structure propping up their faith practices that when those are removed, there is too little internalized discipline, practice, and commitment remaining to sustain it.
Great Quote
“Make us masters of ourselves that we may be the servants of others.” -- Sir Alexander Patterson
There is no question that one of the limiting factors in our ability to serve our families is the extent of our self-discipline.
"Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize." 1 Cor 9:26-27
“Make us masters of ourselves that we may be the servants of others.” -- Sir Alexander Patterson
There is no question that one of the limiting factors in our ability to serve our families is the extent of our self-discipline.
"Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize." 1 Cor 9:26-27
Monday, September 11, 2006
Getting Past Lukewarm Christianity
Recommended: article in CT summarizing many of Dallas Willard's points on genuine discipleship.
"...God has much bigger things in mind for us. He wants us to join his mighty project. That's a main reason we need thoroughgoing transformation. He wants people like us to become fit enough to follow Jesus inside "the infinite rule of God," becoming searchers for his kingdom, agents within it, witnesses to it, and models of it. We now have little kingdoms of our own, just as God intended. Depending on our age and level of responsibility, we have a small realm "where our choice determines what happens." God wants us "to mesh our kingdoms with the kingdoms of others," all inside his master kingdom, "which pervades and governs the whole of the physical universe."
"What else are all these glad biblical instructions for?
Put on the full armor of God.
Seek his kingdom first.
Fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion.
Heal the sick.
Stir one another up to good works.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me.
Teach everybody to obey everything I have commanded you.
Let your light shine before others. "
Recommended: article in CT summarizing many of Dallas Willard's points on genuine discipleship.
"...God has much bigger things in mind for us. He wants us to join his mighty project. That's a main reason we need thoroughgoing transformation. He wants people like us to become fit enough to follow Jesus inside "the infinite rule of God," becoming searchers for his kingdom, agents within it, witnesses to it, and models of it. We now have little kingdoms of our own, just as God intended. Depending on our age and level of responsibility, we have a small realm "where our choice determines what happens." God wants us "to mesh our kingdoms with the kingdoms of others," all inside his master kingdom, "which pervades and governs the whole of the physical universe."
"What else are all these glad biblical instructions for?
Put on the full armor of God.
Seek his kingdom first.
Fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion.
Heal the sick.
Stir one another up to good works.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me.
Teach everybody to obey everything I have commanded you.
Let your light shine before others. "
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Sermon Cloud
I just learned about this cool sermon audio resource, Sermon Cloud. You can search for sermons by keyword, and then download the audio (free). Listeners are "rating" sermons and providing comments.
They also provide services to churches and pastors who wish to upload sermons and syndicate them with RSS. Very slick.
I just learned about this cool sermon audio resource, Sermon Cloud. You can search for sermons by keyword, and then download the audio (free). Listeners are "rating" sermons and providing comments.
They also provide services to churches and pastors who wish to upload sermons and syndicate them with RSS. Very slick.
Scripture Memorization
John Piper gives the reasons for memorizing Scripture:
1. Conformity to Christ
2. Daily Triumph over Sin
3. Daily Triumph over Satan
4. Comfort and Counsel for People You Love
5. Communicating the Gospel to Unbelievers
6. Communion with God in the Enjoyment of His Person and Ways
John Piper gives the reasons for memorizing Scripture:
1. Conformity to Christ
2. Daily Triumph over Sin
3. Daily Triumph over Satan
4. Comfort and Counsel for People You Love
5. Communicating the Gospel to Unbelievers
6. Communion with God in the Enjoyment of His Person and Ways
Friday, September 08, 2006
Strong Measures
Newt Gingrich makes a bold and plain argument for better execution on the Long War against terrorists.
"President Bush today finds himself in precisely the same dilemma Lincoln faced 144 years ago. With American survival at stake, he also must choose. His strategies are not wrong, but they are failing. And they are failing for three reasons.
(1) They do not define the scale of the emerging World War III, between the West and the forces of militant Islam, and so they do not outline how difficult the challenge is and how big the effort will have to be. (2) They do not define victory in this larger war as our goal, and so the energy, resources and intensity needed to win cannot be mobilized. (3) They do not establish clear metrics of achievement and then replace leaders, bureaucrats and bureaucracies as needed to achieve those goals.
To be sure, Mr. Bush understands that we cannot ignore our enemies; they are real. He knows that an enemy who believes in religiously sanctioned suicide-bombing is an enemy who, with a nuclear or biological weapon, is a mortal threat to our survival as a free country. The analysis Mr. Bush offers the nation--before the Joint Session on Sept. 20, 2001, in his 2002 State of the Union, in his 2005 Second Inaugural--is consistently correct. On each occasion, he outlines the threat, the moral nature of the conflict and the absolute requirement for victory.
Unfortunately, the great bureaucracies Mr. Bush presides over (but does not run) have either not read his speeches or do not believe in his analysis. The result has been a national security performance gap that we must confront if we are to succeed in winning this rising World War III."
Others have suggested this is World War IV (WWIII being the Cold War with the Soviets).
Strong measures like the ones Gingrich advocates are almost certainly needed. I'm left wondering if Americans at large have the toughness and persistence required. My grandmother, who lived through the depression and WWII, has pointed out that my generation is a bunch of weenies.
In times like these we tend to quote 1 Chronicles 12:32: "Of the sons of Issachar, men who understood the times, with knowledge of what Israel should do, their chiefs were two hundred; and all their kinsmen were at their command." Notice the last part of that verse -- the men were leaders of their families. Let's not forget that!
Newt Gingrich makes a bold and plain argument for better execution on the Long War against terrorists.
"President Bush today finds himself in precisely the same dilemma Lincoln faced 144 years ago. With American survival at stake, he also must choose. His strategies are not wrong, but they are failing. And they are failing for three reasons.
(1) They do not define the scale of the emerging World War III, between the West and the forces of militant Islam, and so they do not outline how difficult the challenge is and how big the effort will have to be. (2) They do not define victory in this larger war as our goal, and so the energy, resources and intensity needed to win cannot be mobilized. (3) They do not establish clear metrics of achievement and then replace leaders, bureaucrats and bureaucracies as needed to achieve those goals.
To be sure, Mr. Bush understands that we cannot ignore our enemies; they are real. He knows that an enemy who believes in religiously sanctioned suicide-bombing is an enemy who, with a nuclear or biological weapon, is a mortal threat to our survival as a free country. The analysis Mr. Bush offers the nation--before the Joint Session on Sept. 20, 2001, in his 2002 State of the Union, in his 2005 Second Inaugural--is consistently correct. On each occasion, he outlines the threat, the moral nature of the conflict and the absolute requirement for victory.
Unfortunately, the great bureaucracies Mr. Bush presides over (but does not run) have either not read his speeches or do not believe in his analysis. The result has been a national security performance gap that we must confront if we are to succeed in winning this rising World War III."
Others have suggested this is World War IV (WWIII being the Cold War with the Soviets).
Strong measures like the ones Gingrich advocates are almost certainly needed. I'm left wondering if Americans at large have the toughness and persistence required. My grandmother, who lived through the depression and WWII, has pointed out that my generation is a bunch of weenies.
In times like these we tend to quote 1 Chronicles 12:32: "Of the sons of Issachar, men who understood the times, with knowledge of what Israel should do, their chiefs were two hundred; and all their kinsmen were at their command." Notice the last part of that verse -- the men were leaders of their families. Let's not forget that!
Bringing up Boys ... by screens?
Some disturbing facts:
This is sowing the wind and we will reap the whirlwind. What will we do differently, dads?
Some disturbing facts:
The average child spends 900 hours a year in school and 1,023 hours a year
watching television.
In the average home, the TV is on 6.7 hours per day.
By the time a boy reaches eighteen years of age, he’ll have spent 22,000
hours watching television. That is more than any other activity besides
sleeping.
The number of videos and DVDs families rent every day is twice the
number of books read.
By the age of sixteen, the average boy will have seen
200,000 acts of violence on television, 33,000 of them acts of murder.
One
fourth of children under two years of age have a television in their bedrooms.
Two thirds of preschool boys sit in front of screens for more than two hours
per day. That is more than 3 times the hours they spend looking at books or
being read to.
This is sowing the wind and we will reap the whirlwind. What will we do differently, dads?
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Learning from the 'Croc Dude
Steve Irwin had a tremendous amount of passion for animals and the natural world. His enthusiasm ("Crikey!") overcame a lot of resistance to learning. Teachers, leaders, and dads -- we need to display our enthusiasm!
I also like what Mark Batterson says:
"In one sense, the way Steve Irwin died was so tragic. Evidently, the barb from a sting ray punctured his heart. But I think the way he died is a reminder and a testament to a something really powerful. I hope this comes across the right way. Every death is tragic no matter how someone dies. But Steve Irwin died doing what he loved to do. That doesn't lessen the grief. But he died the way he lived.I know this sounds morbid, but I want to die doing what I love to do.Some people live their lives as if the purpose of life is to arrive safely at death. I don't have a death wish. I want to live a long life. But if I had to choose between a long life and a full life I'd choose a full life."
Steve Irwin had a tremendous amount of passion for animals and the natural world. His enthusiasm ("Crikey!") overcame a lot of resistance to learning. Teachers, leaders, and dads -- we need to display our enthusiasm!
I also like what Mark Batterson says:
"In one sense, the way Steve Irwin died was so tragic. Evidently, the barb from a sting ray punctured his heart. But I think the way he died is a reminder and a testament to a something really powerful. I hope this comes across the right way. Every death is tragic no matter how someone dies. But Steve Irwin died doing what he loved to do. That doesn't lessen the grief. But he died the way he lived.I know this sounds morbid, but I want to die doing what I love to do.Some people live their lives as if the purpose of life is to arrive safely at death. I don't have a death wish. I want to live a long life. But if I had to choose between a long life and a full life I'd choose a full life."
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
More Satisfaction in God
John Piper shares 13 ways you can help people become more satisfied in God. Though written to pastors, these are excellent for husbands and fathers, too. For example, "Describe God's value -- his treasures -- in lavish terms." And "Model for the people extended meditation and reflection on the word of God."
John Piper shares 13 ways you can help people become more satisfied in God. Though written to pastors, these are excellent for husbands and fathers, too. For example, "Describe God's value -- his treasures -- in lavish terms." And "Model for the people extended meditation and reflection on the word of God."
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Life Inside a Cell
You have got to see this short video, an animation of life inside a cell. Amazing. Lyrical.
(Note: you probably need broadband to enjoy this. )
Let us praise the Designer, Who had made Himself known to us!
You have got to see this short video, an animation of life inside a cell. Amazing. Lyrical.
(Note: you probably need broadband to enjoy this. )
Let us praise the Designer, Who had made Himself known to us!
Opportunities Abound
The U.S. Department of Labor has predicted that we will face a 10 million worker shortage in 2010.
What opportunities does this create for Christ-following businessmen? Families raising their children to take the love of Jesus into their world?
Whom will the Lord send to be a co-worker with you?
The U.S. Department of Labor has predicted that we will face a 10 million worker shortage in 2010.
What opportunities does this create for Christ-following businessmen? Families raising their children to take the love of Jesus into their world?
Whom will the Lord send to be a co-worker with you?
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Holding the Ropes
I'm a big believer in encouraging our brothers and sisters! We need more men to learn how to do this, linking their encouragement to the truth of Scripture. Here's a wonderful example to learn from.
John Piper received this message from a missionary on the field:
"I need you to pray for me—I have a situation here where the occult is involved . . . . My friend has confided in me about some things . . . . I believe her story and believe that she may be in danger (as well as I) and am certain that her husband is in danger. I have been asking the Lord to save this woman and her husband for several months now. . . . I love these people so much my heart (literally) aches when I think of them separated from God forever."
His response:
"Your situation fills me with a sense of urgency that our people understand some of the battle many of them do not feel, but which you are tasting firsthand. My prayer for you is that God would give you a deep peace in his absolute sovereignty over all principalities and powers and world rulers of this present darkness and spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Put on the whole armor of God, and you will STAND against all the fiery darts of the evil one. “They have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death” (Revelation 12:11).
. . . The greatest thing in the universe is that when Christ died he disarmed Satan and all his hosts (Colossians 2:13-16). I take that to mean that he stripped him of his one mortal weapon—unforgiven sin—because he nailed all the charges against us to the cross. That means Satan can rough us up but cannot damn us. I do not take lightly the threats, but they are not ultimate. They are limited. You can always say, Jesus is superior in strength and he died so that no accusation can hold against his people.
The great accuser, liar, murder has been exposed. He has been defanged. He can hurt us by gumming us, but his poison is gone. We cannot die. We cannot lose the battle that God fights for us with the death and resurrection of his Son. All authority in heaven and on earth belongs to Jesus. Lay hold on him. Speak his sovereign name. Trust his power and mercy and blood and righteousness implicitly.
We are holding the ropes and love you."
I'm a big believer in encouraging our brothers and sisters! We need more men to learn how to do this, linking their encouragement to the truth of Scripture. Here's a wonderful example to learn from.
John Piper received this message from a missionary on the field:
"I need you to pray for me—I have a situation here where the occult is involved . . . . My friend has confided in me about some things . . . . I believe her story and believe that she may be in danger (as well as I) and am certain that her husband is in danger. I have been asking the Lord to save this woman and her husband for several months now. . . . I love these people so much my heart (literally) aches when I think of them separated from God forever."
His response:
"Your situation fills me with a sense of urgency that our people understand some of the battle many of them do not feel, but which you are tasting firsthand. My prayer for you is that God would give you a deep peace in his absolute sovereignty over all principalities and powers and world rulers of this present darkness and spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Put on the whole armor of God, and you will STAND against all the fiery darts of the evil one. “They have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death” (Revelation 12:11).
. . . The greatest thing in the universe is that when Christ died he disarmed Satan and all his hosts (Colossians 2:13-16). I take that to mean that he stripped him of his one mortal weapon—unforgiven sin—because he nailed all the charges against us to the cross. That means Satan can rough us up but cannot damn us. I do not take lightly the threats, but they are not ultimate. They are limited. You can always say, Jesus is superior in strength and he died so that no accusation can hold against his people.
The great accuser, liar, murder has been exposed. He has been defanged. He can hurt us by gumming us, but his poison is gone. We cannot die. We cannot lose the battle that God fights for us with the death and resurrection of his Son. All authority in heaven and on earth belongs to Jesus. Lay hold on him. Speak his sovereign name. Trust his power and mercy and blood and righteousness implicitly.
We are holding the ropes and love you."
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Rent-a-Priest?
Apparently this is genuine, and not real: a service where you can rent-a-priest for weddings, etc. Does this tell us anything about the scarcity of real community?
Apparently this is genuine, and not real: a service where you can rent-a-priest for weddings, etc. Does this tell us anything about the scarcity of real community?
Katrina, One Year Later
It's interesting to see the media reports about the impacts of Hurricane Katrina, and the successess and failures of rebuilding things and people's lives.
I'm hopeful that Katrina events spark a revolution in Congress, because people understand the limits of federal disaster spending. Federal spending (so far!) has exceeded 122 billion dollars (over 5x the federal outlay for Sept 11 attacks) and has been relatively ineffective compared to private business spending and volunteer efforts.
I would be very interested to see a Christian journalist study the situation and try to point out as many places as possible where God's fingerprints are evident. Consider how many people could have died, but didn't. Think of the many lives changed for the better! And consider how God has exposed evil clearly -- in corrupt politics processes and in the human heart.
It's interesting to see the media reports about the impacts of Hurricane Katrina, and the successess and failures of rebuilding things and people's lives.
I'm hopeful that Katrina events spark a revolution in Congress, because people understand the limits of federal disaster spending. Federal spending (so far!) has exceeded 122 billion dollars (over 5x the federal outlay for Sept 11 attacks) and has been relatively ineffective compared to private business spending and volunteer efforts.
I would be very interested to see a Christian journalist study the situation and try to point out as many places as possible where God's fingerprints are evident. Consider how many people could have died, but didn't. Think of the many lives changed for the better! And consider how God has exposed evil clearly -- in corrupt politics processes and in the human heart.
Christians and Politics
Perry Noble has some refreshing comments about "Jesus, the Bible, and Politics." Very helpful balance of focus-on-Jesus, and engage the process.
Perry Noble has some refreshing comments about "Jesus, the Bible, and Politics." Very helpful balance of focus-on-Jesus, and engage the process.
Why are We Blaming Others for Our Poor Image?
I routinely hear (and think) about how leftists, the mainstream media, and others put Christians down or characterize us as hypocritical imbeciles.
Several events converged recently, so God has my attention on this!
-- I'm studying John 13-17, seeing how Jesus tells us to love others.
-- A Muslim acquaintance points out that the kindness of a Christian family is making him uncomfortable with his long-held views on Christian and Jewish 'infidels'
-- I've run into articles and blog entries like this one: "Does Christian Laziness Lead to Our Lack of Credibility?"
Now it is true that Satan will fan the flames of hatred against God's people using lies.
But by and large, we have earned our negative image. Let's choose to live a life so full of love that bad PR will clearly be seen as lies, not just half-truths.
I routinely hear (and think) about how leftists, the mainstream media, and others put Christians down or characterize us as hypocritical imbeciles.
Several events converged recently, so God has my attention on this!
-- I'm studying John 13-17, seeing how Jesus tells us to love others.
-- A Muslim acquaintance points out that the kindness of a Christian family is making him uncomfortable with his long-held views on Christian and Jewish 'infidels'
-- I've run into articles and blog entries like this one: "Does Christian Laziness Lead to Our Lack of Credibility?"
Now it is true that Satan will fan the flames of hatred against God's people using lies.
But by and large, we have earned our negative image. Let's choose to live a life so full of love that bad PR will clearly be seen as lies, not just half-truths.
Monday, August 28, 2006
PodCasting
One question I get more frequently now is "Do you know how to get started in podcasting?" Many people are recording their sermons and lessons and making them available as mp3 files. This is a terrific way to leverage your teaching material -- people all over the world can benefit.
I'm just at the front edge of learning about podcasting. If you're interested in this area, I recommend you check out this resource -- PDF ebook, over an hour of online video to walk you through it step by step, many useful bonuses, and a 90 day money-back guarantee!
One question I get more frequently now is "Do you know how to get started in podcasting?" Many people are recording their sermons and lessons and making them available as mp3 files. This is a terrific way to leverage your teaching material -- people all over the world can benefit.
I'm just at the front edge of learning about podcasting. If you're interested in this area, I recommend you check out this resource -- PDF ebook, over an hour of online video to walk you through it step by step, many useful bonuses, and a 90 day money-back guarantee!
Friday, August 25, 2006
The Truth Project
Focus on the Family is launching a new DVD series about Christian worldview -- it's called The Truth Project. This might be an excellent study for your small group or an elective class at your church.
A good starting point is this article about Christian worldview by Del Tackett.
Focus on the Family is launching a new DVD series about Christian worldview -- it's called The Truth Project. This might be an excellent study for your small group or an elective class at your church.
A good starting point is this article about Christian worldview by Del Tackett.
"Mega" Churches
I know many of my readers are interested in church growth, church dynamics, and missions. This article has some of all three!
Sidebar: It's ironic that we think about megachurches being modern. The early church had over 3000 the day after Pentecost, with more "added to their number daily." Many of the large churches in Europe in the major cities had thousands of regular worshipers from 1200AD on.
I know many of my readers are interested in church growth, church dynamics, and missions. This article has some of all three!
Sidebar: It's ironic that we think about megachurches being modern. The early church had over 3000 the day after Pentecost, with more "added to their number daily." Many of the large churches in Europe in the major cities had thousands of regular worshipers from 1200AD on.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
The Battle
I made a choice some time back to write less on this blog about politics. I will continue to hold myself in check on US politics. But irrespective of political position, I believe Christian men must understand the times in which we live. We are fighting a war against Islamic terrorists who want to destroy JudeoChristian "western" life.
These people are very clear about their purpose, men, and no amount of warm fuzzy speeches or appeasement gestures will deflect them. Hard words and real action is needed. We've done the other experiment, and we'll get the same result each time.
There is a spiritual war, remember, going on behind this one. That's the real war. We must be fighting both the real war (see Ephesians 6:12) and this war in the Shadowlands. On the latter, I recommend these recent columns:
Thomas Sowell's column "Point of No Return?"
Michael Barone's column "Our Covert Enemies"
Cal Thomas' column "The Real Teachings of the Koran"
And notice that news articles are once again appearing about nuclear power/weapons in Iran. They had a nice 2 month layoff while media attention was focused on Israel vs. Hizballah (which gets most of its funding and weapons from Iran and Syria).
I made a choice some time back to write less on this blog about politics. I will continue to hold myself in check on US politics. But irrespective of political position, I believe Christian men must understand the times in which we live. We are fighting a war against Islamic terrorists who want to destroy JudeoChristian "western" life.
These people are very clear about their purpose, men, and no amount of warm fuzzy speeches or appeasement gestures will deflect them. Hard words and real action is needed. We've done the other experiment, and we'll get the same result each time.
There is a spiritual war, remember, going on behind this one. That's the real war. We must be fighting both the real war (see Ephesians 6:12) and this war in the Shadowlands. On the latter, I recommend these recent columns:
Thomas Sowell's column "Point of No Return?"
Michael Barone's column "Our Covert Enemies"
Cal Thomas' column "The Real Teachings of the Koran"
And notice that news articles are once again appearing about nuclear power/weapons in Iran. They had a nice 2 month layoff while media attention was focused on Israel vs. Hizballah (which gets most of its funding and weapons from Iran and Syria).
Learning for the Real Business World
Guy Kawasaki has twelve useful suggestions on what high schoolers and college students should be learning to be productive in the real business world (vs. how things operate in academic environments).
How to Talk with Your Boss
How to Run a Meeting
How to Leave a Voicemail Message
How to Have a Conversations
How to Figure Out Anything On Your Own
etc.
Read the whole thing here. Good stuff, dads, and we can do a lot of this with our kids.
Guy Kawasaki has twelve useful suggestions on what high schoolers and college students should be learning to be productive in the real business world (vs. how things operate in academic environments).
How to Talk with Your Boss
How to Run a Meeting
How to Leave a Voicemail Message
How to Have a Conversations
How to Figure Out Anything On Your Own
etc.
Read the whole thing here. Good stuff, dads, and we can do a lot of this with our kids.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Monday, August 21, 2006
Teen Sex Beliefs, Practices
The Des Moines Register featured an article yesterday about teens and sex beliefs. Scary statistics and comments! Dads, we have work to do! Men, our communities need us to stand tall and speak truth and pray for transformed lives.
The Des Moines Register featured an article yesterday about teens and sex beliefs. Scary statistics and comments! Dads, we have work to do! Men, our communities need us to stand tall and speak truth and pray for transformed lives.
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Getting Passionate about Jesus
This Perry Noble story reminds me of a good friend who, years ago, did an AWANA lesson where he brought in shopping bags full of his Nebraska paraphenalia -- and then talked about how he was even more excited about Jesus.
"What if churches were as passionate about Jesus, who knows every hair on their head, as fans are about players that don’t even know they exist?
What if people were as intentional about arriving to church before the service started as fans are when it comes to arriving to a football game before it starts?
What if people were just as excited when a church service when into “overtime” as fans are when they get to see the game continue?
What if people in the church celebrated as loud as people at the games do when their team scores?
What if people were as passionate about telling others about Jesus…just as passionate as a fan who went to a game and saw an incredible performance?
What if people at church could learn to enjoy the experience of worship with thousands of other worshippers and not worry about who knows who–they do this at football games every week! (I think it is incredibly hypocritical of a person who will go to a Clemson game and not get mad because Tommy Bowden didn’t come speak to them–but they will go to a church service the next day and get mad if the pastor doesn’t speak to them!!!)You see, passion leads to action. You don’t have to ask if someone is passionate about football…you see it…it just comes OUT!!! And the same can be said about Jesus…if we are passionate…it shows. HE dominates our thoughts and our actions…and we go all out to serve Him."
This Perry Noble story reminds me of a good friend who, years ago, did an AWANA lesson where he brought in shopping bags full of his Nebraska paraphenalia -- and then talked about how he was even more excited about Jesus.
"What if churches were as passionate about Jesus, who knows every hair on their head, as fans are about players that don’t even know they exist?
What if people were as intentional about arriving to church before the service started as fans are when it comes to arriving to a football game before it starts?
What if people were just as excited when a church service when into “overtime” as fans are when they get to see the game continue?
What if people in the church celebrated as loud as people at the games do when their team scores?
What if people were as passionate about telling others about Jesus…just as passionate as a fan who went to a game and saw an incredible performance?
What if people at church could learn to enjoy the experience of worship with thousands of other worshippers and not worry about who knows who–they do this at football games every week! (I think it is incredibly hypocritical of a person who will go to a Clemson game and not get mad because Tommy Bowden didn’t come speak to them–but they will go to a church service the next day and get mad if the pastor doesn’t speak to them!!!)You see, passion leads to action. You don’t have to ask if someone is passionate about football…you see it…it just comes OUT!!! And the same can be said about Jesus…if we are passionate…it shows. HE dominates our thoughts and our actions…and we go all out to serve Him."
What Are Your Risking For?
"Everything God created us to be and do is on the other side of risk." -- Scott Aughtmon
"Everything God created us to be and do is on the other side of risk." -- Scott Aughtmon
Podcasting & Technology-based Outreach
Check out this good, solid article about the value of podcasting sermons (or other material) from your church and using technology to expand your reach. "The message is sacred, the medium is not." Don't underestimate how God could use your willingness to make good information available.
Check out this good, solid article about the value of podcasting sermons (or other material) from your church and using technology to expand your reach. "The message is sacred, the medium is not." Don't underestimate how God could use your willingness to make good information available.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Deciding What to Do Now
It's pretty easy to fall into whiny, complaining, "I'm tired, I'm overwhelmed, I'd rather just watch a sit-com, it's too big a problem" mode, isn't it.
I liked what David Maister recently wrote:
"You here a lot of people saying things like these:
We’re too busy doing the wrong things to have time to do the right things
We've got so many of the wrong people in the key positions that we can't get the right people appointed
We got too may of the bad clients to serve that we don't have the time to get the good clients
We've been known as people who do X for so long, that no-one will believe that we now do Y
I'm stuck doing stuff I hate but I can't afford to quit
He / She's never going to change, so why bother?
When I do hear such phrases, I'm reminded of this:"The past has a vote, not a veto." - Rabbi Mordechai Kaplan, Born in Lithuania in 1880s
* * * *
"But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Php 3:13-14)
Let's not let the past have a veto, men. Make decisions today about moving forward, and how. This is how we lead ourselves, our families, our churches, everywhere.
It's pretty easy to fall into whiny, complaining, "I'm tired, I'm overwhelmed, I'd rather just watch a sit-com, it's too big a problem" mode, isn't it.
I liked what David Maister recently wrote:
"You here a lot of people saying things like these:
We’re too busy doing the wrong things to have time to do the right things
We've got so many of the wrong people in the key positions that we can't get the right people appointed
We got too may of the bad clients to serve that we don't have the time to get the good clients
We've been known as people who do X for so long, that no-one will believe that we now do Y
I'm stuck doing stuff I hate but I can't afford to quit
He / She's never going to change, so why bother?
When I do hear such phrases, I'm reminded of this:"The past has a vote, not a veto." - Rabbi Mordechai Kaplan, Born in Lithuania in 1880s
* * * *
"But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Php 3:13-14)
Let's not let the past have a veto, men. Make decisions today about moving forward, and how. This is how we lead ourselves, our families, our churches, everywhere.
The Language of God
Check out this incredible talk by Francis Collins, a committed Christian and leader of the human genome project.
Check out this incredible talk by Francis Collins, a committed Christian and leader of the human genome project.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Go After the Young Men
Mark Driscoll suggests the Church should go after the young men.
"The problem is the Church today is just a bunch of nice, soft, tender, chickafied church boys. 60% of Christians are chicks and the 40% that are dudes are still sort of...chicks. It's just sad.
"We're looking around going, How come we're not innovative? Cause all the innovative dudes are home watching football or they're out making money or climbing a mountain or shooting a gun or working on their truck.
They look at the church like that's a nice thing for women and children. So the question is if you want to be innovative: How do you get young men? All this nonsense on how to grow the church. One issue: young men. That's it. That's the whole thing.
They're going to get married, make money, make babies, build companies, buy real estate. They're going to make the culture of the future. If you get the young men you win the war, you get everything. You get the families, the women, the children, the money, the business, you get everything. If you don't get the young men you get nothing."
Mark Driscoll suggests the Church should go after the young men.
"The problem is the Church today is just a bunch of nice, soft, tender, chickafied church boys. 60% of Christians are chicks and the 40% that are dudes are still sort of...chicks. It's just sad.
"We're looking around going, How come we're not innovative? Cause all the innovative dudes are home watching football or they're out making money or climbing a mountain or shooting a gun or working on their truck.
They look at the church like that's a nice thing for women and children. So the question is if you want to be innovative: How do you get young men? All this nonsense on how to grow the church. One issue: young men. That's it. That's the whole thing.
They're going to get married, make money, make babies, build companies, buy real estate. They're going to make the culture of the future. If you get the young men you win the war, you get everything. You get the families, the women, the children, the money, the business, you get everything. If you don't get the young men you get nothing."
Be Careful How You Measure Progress
I love this evangelism story from Bill Hybels. He spent years befriending his son's soccer coach, helping him with little things. It reminds me to be careful about how we measure progress and value -- in the kingdom of God we are usually wrong to be concerned about the rate at which spiritual progress happens.
I love this evangelism story from Bill Hybels. He spent years befriending his son's soccer coach, helping him with little things. It reminds me to be careful about how we measure progress and value -- in the kingdom of God we are usually wrong to be concerned about the rate at which spiritual progress happens.
Cheat the Church
Andy Stanley makes a leadership focus decision to cheat the church, rather than his family.
Maybe you and I need to think about what organizations we "cheat."
Andy Stanley makes a leadership focus decision to cheat the church, rather than his family.
Maybe you and I need to think about what organizations we "cheat."
Monday, August 14, 2006
Things I learned in the BWCA
My son and I spent several days in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area last week, traveling about 40 miles by canoe and portage, and camping along the way. Here are a few things I learned along the way:
This is a huge area, with lots of open space, and you're just the visitor there. Even the ducks know this. Certainly the bald eagles do.
It helps a lot when you son is as strong or stronger than you. 50 pound canoe, 50 pound packs, and a food pack, it adds up.
I took along my notebook and pen, assuming that I'd have tons of great ideas and insights. I prayed a lot, but didn't think about much to write down. Instead, I had a wonderful experience of "Be still, and know that I am God."
When wolf howls wake you up at 1am, you discover some urgency in your prayer that wasn't there when you laid down to go to sleep.
Our ancestors were tough! And how did they find there way around without topo maps, anyway? You would think someone would rig up a solar-powered neon "P" sign to mark these portage sites!
Minnesota mosquito legends are all true.
Teenagers recover faster than 44 year olds. I'm sure I knew that before, but this trip reinforced it.
There are some rocks and tree roots that no Thermarest mattress can make comfortable.
Coordinated paddling gets you there much faster, with less effort. Parenting is much easier when the kids cooperate, right? And our spiritual growth is much faster when we lay down our foolish defensive pride and let God work in and through us. Community life is better when we submit to the idea of paddling together.
The worst rocks are the ones that don't stick up out of the water, but are just below the surface. You don't see those until the last seconds, or until your canoe grinds over them.
The best way to have good conversations with your teenage son is to go with whatever he wants to talk about, and not try too hard to steer the conversation to where you think it should go.
We're eager to do it again, but willing to give it a year or so.
My son and I spent several days in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area last week, traveling about 40 miles by canoe and portage, and camping along the way. Here are a few things I learned along the way:
This is a huge area, with lots of open space, and you're just the visitor there. Even the ducks know this. Certainly the bald eagles do.
It helps a lot when you son is as strong or stronger than you. 50 pound canoe, 50 pound packs, and a food pack, it adds up.
I took along my notebook and pen, assuming that I'd have tons of great ideas and insights. I prayed a lot, but didn't think about much to write down. Instead, I had a wonderful experience of "Be still, and know that I am God."
When wolf howls wake you up at 1am, you discover some urgency in your prayer that wasn't there when you laid down to go to sleep.
Our ancestors were tough! And how did they find there way around without topo maps, anyway? You would think someone would rig up a solar-powered neon "P" sign to mark these portage sites!
Minnesota mosquito legends are all true.
Teenagers recover faster than 44 year olds. I'm sure I knew that before, but this trip reinforced it.
There are some rocks and tree roots that no Thermarest mattress can make comfortable.
Coordinated paddling gets you there much faster, with less effort. Parenting is much easier when the kids cooperate, right? And our spiritual growth is much faster when we lay down our foolish defensive pride and let God work in and through us. Community life is better when we submit to the idea of paddling together.
The worst rocks are the ones that don't stick up out of the water, but are just below the surface. You don't see those until the last seconds, or until your canoe grinds over them.
The best way to have good conversations with your teenage son is to go with whatever he wants to talk about, and not try too hard to steer the conversation to where you think it should go.
We're eager to do it again, but willing to give it a year or so.
Sunday, August 06, 2006
Saturday, August 05, 2006
Load Up Your MP3 Player!
Here's a free source for the New Testament as MP3 files. Enjoy the Word heard!
Here's a free source for the New Testament as MP3 files. Enjoy the Word heard!
Thursday, August 03, 2006
How to Respond to Mel Gibson
There's lots of buzz about Mel Gibson's remarks about Jews and being arrested for driving drunk. I don't know if this would have gotten so much media attention except that he is well-known for being a conservative Catholic.
How does the Christian community respond? Pound this out in USA Today headlines? Uhm, no.
I liked Tim Woody's recommendations.
There's lots of buzz about Mel Gibson's remarks about Jews and being arrested for driving drunk. I don't know if this would have gotten so much media attention except that he is well-known for being a conservative Catholic.
How does the Christian community respond? Pound this out in USA Today headlines? Uhm, no.
I liked Tim Woody's recommendations.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
One of Glenn's Most Embarrassing Moments
If you've got 11 minutes, I'll tell you about one of my most embarrassing moments -- and how God did me a huge favor by humbling me. Check it out here.
If you've got 11 minutes, I'll tell you about one of my most embarrassing moments -- and how God did me a huge favor by humbling me. Check it out here.
Monday, July 31, 2006
Good Song Lyrics
I think this is a Phillips, Craig, and Dean song. Good stuff!
Who am I that You are mindful of me?
That You hear me when I call
Is it true that You are thinking of me?
How you Love me
It's Amazing
Who am I that You are mindful of me?
That You hear me when I call
Is it true that You are thinking of me?
How you Love me
It's Amazing
I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
He calls me friend
Who am I that You are mindful of me?
That You hear me when I call
Is it true that You are thinking of me?
How you Love me
It's Amazing,
so amazing, it's amazing
I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
He calls me friend
God Almighty Lord of Glory
You have called me friend
I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
He calls me friend
I think this is a Phillips, Craig, and Dean song. Good stuff!
Who am I that You are mindful of me?
That You hear me when I call
Is it true that You are thinking of me?
How you Love me
It's Amazing
Who am I that You are mindful of me?
That You hear me when I call
Is it true that You are thinking of me?
How you Love me
It's Amazing
I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
He calls me friend
Who am I that You are mindful of me?
That You hear me when I call
Is it true that You are thinking of me?
How you Love me
It's Amazing,
so amazing, it's amazing
I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
He calls me friend
God Almighty Lord of Glory
You have called me friend
I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
He calls me friend
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Prayer Request
Brothers, would you please pray for me? I'm putting together a short series for a men's group on friendships. I will base the teaching on Barnabas. Please pray that I would reach more clarity on what the Lord wants me to bring to these dear brothers at this specific time. And ask the Lord to be at work in the hearts of men. Thanks!
Brothers, would you please pray for me? I'm putting together a short series for a men's group on friendships. I will base the teaching on Barnabas. Please pray that I would reach more clarity on what the Lord wants me to bring to these dear brothers at this specific time. And ask the Lord to be at work in the hearts of men. Thanks!
Friday, July 28, 2006
Pray for Chinese Christian Leaders
Four of our brothers, leaders in Chinese churches, have been sent to labor camps. Let's pray for our brothers and sisters in China, so that Jesus will be glorified more and more there.
Four of our brothers, leaders in Chinese churches, have been sent to labor camps. Let's pray for our brothers and sisters in China, so that Jesus will be glorified more and more there.
InstaVerse
Here's a nifty tool (free) that you can install on your PC: InstaVerse. If you type in a Bible verse reference in your word processor or email message, it will show you the full verse if you mouse "hover" over it. Available in many translations. Slick!
Here's a nifty tool (free) that you can install on your PC: InstaVerse. If you type in a Bible verse reference in your word processor or email message, it will show you the full verse if you mouse "hover" over it. Available in many translations. Slick!
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Thinking Clearly About "Moral Equivalency" in the Middle East
I have intentionally posted less frequently about politics and world events in the past few months. Israel's incursions into Lebanon to go after Hezbollah terrorists, and military attacks against Hamax positions and equipment, have generated a lot of muddy thinking by those who would prefer everyone "just get along."
So I gladly point you to Dennis Prager's recent column and this column from Michael Medved.
If terrorists in Toronto fire missiles at cities in the US, and Canada was unwilling or unable to put an end to them, do you think the US would not meet this threat this with military force?
I have intentionally posted less frequently about politics and world events in the past few months. Israel's incursions into Lebanon to go after Hezbollah terrorists, and military attacks against Hamax positions and equipment, have generated a lot of muddy thinking by those who would prefer everyone "just get along."
So I gladly point you to Dennis Prager's recent column and this column from Michael Medved.
If terrorists in Toronto fire missiles at cities in the US, and Canada was unwilling or unable to put an end to them, do you think the US would not meet this threat this with military force?
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Funny...But We Do This Kind of Thing
Here's a joke that makes a great point. (BTW, I've seen variations of this joke for Methodists and Lutherans.)
* * * *
I was walking across a bridge recently. I spied this fellow who looked like he was ready to jump off. So, I thought Id try to stall him until the authorities showed up. Don't jump! I said. Why not? he said. Nobody loves me.
God loves you, I said. You believe in God, don't you? Yes, I believe in God, he said.
Good, I said. Are you Christian or Jewish?
Christian, he said.
Me, too! I said. Protestant or Catholic?
Neither, he said.
What then? I said.
Baptist, he said.
Me, too! I said. Independent Baptist or Southern Baptist?
Independent Baptist, he said.
Me, too! I said. New Evangelical/Moderate Independent Baptist or Conservative Independent Baptist?
"Conservative Independent Baptist," he said.
"Me, too!" I said. "Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist or Lose-Your-Salvation Armenian Conservative Independent Baptist?"
"Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist," he said.
"Me, too!" I said. "Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist or Historical Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist?"
"Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist," he said.
"Me, too!" I said. "Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist or For Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist?" "Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist," he said.
"Me, too!" I said. "Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist or Strict Separation of Church and State Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist?" "Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist," he said.
"Me, too!" I said. "Pro-Disney Boycott Pro-Life Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist or Anti-Disney Boycott Pro-Choice Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist?" "Pro-Disney Boycott Pro-Life Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist," he said.
"Me, too!" I said. "KJV Only Pro-Disney Boycott Pro-Life Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist or Modern Versions Pro-Disney Boycott Pro-Life Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist?"
"MODERN VERSIONS Pro-Disney Boycott Pro-Life Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist" he said.
"Agghh!!! You heretic!" I said. And I pushed him over.
Here's a joke that makes a great point. (BTW, I've seen variations of this joke for Methodists and Lutherans.)
* * * *
I was walking across a bridge recently. I spied this fellow who looked like he was ready to jump off. So, I thought Id try to stall him until the authorities showed up. Don't jump! I said. Why not? he said. Nobody loves me.
God loves you, I said. You believe in God, don't you? Yes, I believe in God, he said.
Good, I said. Are you Christian or Jewish?
Christian, he said.
Me, too! I said. Protestant or Catholic?
Neither, he said.
What then? I said.
Baptist, he said.
Me, too! I said. Independent Baptist or Southern Baptist?
Independent Baptist, he said.
Me, too! I said. New Evangelical/Moderate Independent Baptist or Conservative Independent Baptist?
"Conservative Independent Baptist," he said.
"Me, too!" I said. "Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist or Lose-Your-Salvation Armenian Conservative Independent Baptist?"
"Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist," he said.
"Me, too!" I said. "Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist or Historical Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist?"
"Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist," he said.
"Me, too!" I said. "Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist or For Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist?" "Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist," he said.
"Me, too!" I said. "Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist or Strict Separation of Church and State Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist?" "Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist," he said.
"Me, too!" I said. "Pro-Disney Boycott Pro-Life Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist or Anti-Disney Boycott Pro-Choice Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist?" "Pro-Disney Boycott Pro-Life Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist," he said.
"Me, too!" I said. "KJV Only Pro-Disney Boycott Pro-Life Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist or Modern Versions Pro-Disney Boycott Pro-Life Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist?"
"MODERN VERSIONS Pro-Disney Boycott Pro-Life Unashamed Fundamentalist Against Women in Ministry Dispensational Premillennial Calvinistic Conservative Independent Baptist" he said.
"Agghh!!! You heretic!" I said. And I pushed him over.
Monday, July 24, 2006
Shepherding and Leadership
If you're in a church leadership position, here's a helpful short article about the overlap between shepherding people and being a leader.
If you're in a church leadership position, here's a helpful short article about the overlap between shepherding people and being a leader.
Carved on the Palm of His Hands
I have been singing the hymn below frequently this past week. The lyric "my name is graven on his hands" comes from Isaiah 49:16. Some thoughts that occurred to me as I've meditated on this image:
* My name is carved on his palms, not scrawled there in ballpoint pen. It took significant purpose to put my name there. It's not going to wear off.
* Hands are remarkably sensitive. There would be some pain involved to carve my name there!
* If the Father has a question about Glenn Brooke for Jesus -- who is at his right hand interceding for me (Rom 8:34), Jesus will just hold out his hand to the Father. Question answered. And then they'll give each other a high five!
I have been singing the hymn below frequently this past week. The lyric "my name is graven on his hands" comes from Isaiah 49:16. Some thoughts that occurred to me as I've meditated on this image:
* My name is carved on his palms, not scrawled there in ballpoint pen. It took significant purpose to put my name there. It's not going to wear off.
* Hands are remarkably sensitive. There would be some pain involved to carve my name there!
* If the Father has a question about Glenn Brooke for Jesus -- who is at his right hand interceding for me (Rom 8:34), Jesus will just hold out his hand to the Father. Question answered. And then they'll give each other a high five!
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Great Hymn
I really enjoyed this hymn at PK this year. I was delighted to find that it dates from 1863! I was particular blessed by the refrain "my name is graven on His hands, my name is written on His hears" -- see Isaiah 49:16. Solid theology, Christ-centered praise!
I really enjoyed this hymn at PK this year. I was delighted to find that it dates from 1863! I was particular blessed by the refrain "my name is graven on His hands, my name is written on His hears" -- see Isaiah 49:16. Solid theology, Christ-centered praise!
Before the throne of God above
I have a strong and perfect plea.
A great high Priest whose Name is Love
Who ever lives and pleads for me.
My name is graven on His hands,
My name is written on His heart.
I know that while in Heaven He stands
No tongue can bid me thence depart.
When Satan tempts me to despair
And tells me of the guilt within,
Upward I look and see Him there
Who made an end of all my sin.
Because the sinless Savior died
My sinful soul is counted free.
For God the just is satisfied
To look on Him and pardon me.
Behold Him there the risen Lamb,
My perfect spotless righteousness,
The great unchangeable I AM,
King of glory and of grace,
One in Himself I cannot die.
My soul is purchased by His blood,
My life is hid with Christ on high,
With Christ my Savior and my God!
Words: Charitie L. Bancroft, 1863.
Friday, July 14, 2006
Dual Destiny
Pastor Mark Batterson points out that we have a dual destiny.
"One destiny is universal and is to be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ. "
"The other destiny is unique, to become unlike anyone who has ever lived...The goal is for each of us to be a unique expression of praise to God."
(From his 7/5/06 Evotional email)
Pastor Mark Batterson points out that we have a dual destiny.
"One destiny is universal and is to be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ. "
"The other destiny is unique, to become unlike anyone who has ever lived...The goal is for each of us to be a unique expression of praise to God."
(From his 7/5/06 Evotional email)
Leadership Development in This Generation
If you are concerned about developing leaders today, then you should read this article.
Also buried in here is a useful insight about the American church today -- we're seeing God bless two structures: megachurches and niche churches. It corresponds to the success of the big box stores and the specialty stores. Reach everyone with the Gospel!
If you are concerned about developing leaders today, then you should read this article.
Also buried in here is a useful insight about the American church today -- we're seeing God bless two structures: megachurches and niche churches. It corresponds to the success of the big box stores and the specialty stores. Reach everyone with the Gospel!
Getting Rest
Perry Noble has incisive points about God's men getting rest:
1. It's biblical. What should it tell us that the "preserve the Sabbath" command is the longest of the 10 Commandments?
2. We're better at listening to God (and to others) when we're getting rest.
3. Rested men resist temptations.
Perry Noble has incisive points about God's men getting rest:
1. It's biblical. What should it tell us that the "preserve the Sabbath" command is the longest of the 10 Commandments?
2. We're better at listening to God (and to others) when we're getting rest.
3. Rested men resist temptations.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Christians Transforming Cities
A dear friend spent several years living in New York City, fellowshiping with Redeemer Church under Pastor Tim Keller. He was back there recently and emailed me this about his experience:
"Being back was a very emotional experience for me. The city itself is so different than it was when we were there. I firmly believe that our prayers were answered to remove the evil spiritual force field that surrounded NYC. We walked with our kids through a part of Harlem that I would never have done without kids before. Truly amazing."
Read Pastor Keller's recommendations about Christians living out Christ in communities in cities. Worth your time.
A dear friend spent several years living in New York City, fellowshiping with Redeemer Church under Pastor Tim Keller. He was back there recently and emailed me this about his experience:
"Being back was a very emotional experience for me. The city itself is so different than it was when we were there. I firmly believe that our prayers were answered to remove the evil spiritual force field that surrounded NYC. We walked with our kids through a part of Harlem that I would never have done without kids before. Truly amazing."
Read Pastor Keller's recommendations about Christians living out Christ in communities in cities. Worth your time.
Watch How You Criticize!
One of the most disheartening conversation points I hear from not-yet believers is when they ask why Christians don't get along with each other. "Why are there so many denominations?" "How come different Christian groups say their 'brand' is the only true Christianity?"
I believe that many well-intentioned people, zealous for truth, contribute to this perception by the way they publicly criticize other Christians and Christian groups. Name-calling, harshness, building a viewpoint on innuendo and rumor, and personal insults have no place in the Church. Jesus didn't do this, but Satan does. Let's be brothers of Christ, not act like children of the devil.
I recommend you read Brian MacLaren's comments about fair criticism.
One of the most disheartening conversation points I hear from not-yet believers is when they ask why Christians don't get along with each other. "Why are there so many denominations?" "How come different Christian groups say their 'brand' is the only true Christianity?"
I believe that many well-intentioned people, zealous for truth, contribute to this perception by the way they publicly criticize other Christians and Christian groups. Name-calling, harshness, building a viewpoint on innuendo and rumor, and personal insults have no place in the Church. Jesus didn't do this, but Satan does. Let's be brothers of Christ, not act like children of the devil.
I recommend you read Brian MacLaren's comments about fair criticism.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
PK 2006
I attended Promise Keepers in Des Moines this past weekend. Excellent!
Here's my confession about this PK event: I wasn't actually very excited about going, but was focusing on getting a couple of other guys -- you know, who really NEEDED it -- to the event. I was going primarily to get them there.
I needed it. I needed the humbling worship, the 2x4 whacks from the Holy Spirit as men taught, and the encouragement of being with my brothers in Christ.
I attended Promise Keepers in Des Moines this past weekend. Excellent!
Here's my confession about this PK event: I wasn't actually very excited about going, but was focusing on getting a couple of other guys -- you know, who really NEEDED it -- to the event. I was going primarily to get them there.
I needed it. I needed the humbling worship, the 2x4 whacks from the Holy Spirit as men taught, and the encouragement of being with my brothers in Christ.
Quote of the Week
"The left regularly charges America's conservative Christians with wanting to make America a 'theocracy,' being 'fascists' and/or being 'anti-Semites.' They are none of those things, and as a result, the battle against the real theocrats (Muslim fundamentalists), real fascists and real anti-Semites is compromised. The tragedy of all this is that when evils are defined down, good people are left verbally unarmed when the real evils present themselves." -- Dennis Prager
"The left regularly charges America's conservative Christians with wanting to make America a 'theocracy,' being 'fascists' and/or being 'anti-Semites.' They are none of those things, and as a result, the battle against the real theocrats (Muslim fundamentalists), real fascists and real anti-Semites is compromised. The tragedy of all this is that when evils are defined down, good people are left verbally unarmed when the real evils present themselves." -- Dennis Prager
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Celebrate the 4th of July
Today is a good day to re-read the Declaration of Independence. Think of the decisiveness and boldness of these men!
Today is a good day to re-read the Declaration of Independence. Think of the decisiveness and boldness of these men!
Prayer Meeting? Y-a-w-n...
Here's an excellent article describing our pathetic prayer meetings in the American church, with recommendations on changing it. Worth your time.
"As P.T. Forsyth warned, the inability to pray is the punishment for the refusal to pray."
Here's an excellent article describing our pathetic prayer meetings in the American church, with recommendations on changing it. Worth your time.
"As P.T. Forsyth warned, the inability to pray is the punishment for the refusal to pray."
Did They Find Noah's Ark?
Kevin Nelstead has a useful critique of the recent news that a team found the remains of Noah's ark. I appreciate his description of this effort as "psuedo-apologetics." Wise thinking!
Kevin Nelstead has a useful critique of the recent news that a team found the remains of Noah's ark. I appreciate his description of this effort as "psuedo-apologetics." Wise thinking!
Saturday, July 01, 2006
Fine Objective, But There's a Better One
I've heard this in a variety of ways over the years, and it's a fine objective:
"Live so that the preacher doesn't have to make stuff up at your funeral."
There's a better strategy: be sold out for Jesus. Love the Lord will all your heart, mind, soul, and strength.
I've heard this in a variety of ways over the years, and it's a fine objective:
"Live so that the preacher doesn't have to make stuff up at your funeral."
There's a better strategy: be sold out for Jesus. Love the Lord will all your heart, mind, soul, and strength.
Friday, June 30, 2006
Time Horizon
Success management 'guru' Brian Tracey tells his devotees to think out 5, 10, and 20 years out into the future. Why? The long perspective means you make better choices about today and tomorrow.
How much more, then, should we men be thinking out into eternity? (See Colossians 3:1-4).
Success management 'guru' Brian Tracey tells his devotees to think out 5, 10, and 20 years out into the future. Why? The long perspective means you make better choices about today and tomorrow.
How much more, then, should we men be thinking out into eternity? (See Colossians 3:1-4).
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
What Do Not-Yet Believers Ask?
Figuring out what people ask questions about is part of cultural anthropology. Sales, Marketing, Advertisers, Copyrighters, media producers are all searching this out -- what do people ask about? Because it's the window to their emotions and will to buy.
We need to study what not-yet believers are asking about.
Here's my observation: Very few not-yet believers are asking the question, "What must I do to be saved?" But nearly everyone is asking "How do I make my life work better?"
Figuring out what people ask questions about is part of cultural anthropology. Sales, Marketing, Advertisers, Copyrighters, media producers are all searching this out -- what do people ask about? Because it's the window to their emotions and will to buy.
We need to study what not-yet believers are asking about.
Here's my observation: Very few not-yet believers are asking the question, "What must I do to be saved?" But nearly everyone is asking "How do I make my life work better?"
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Christianity and the American Revolution
Christianity Today has a wonderful collection of articles discussing the Christian influences during the colonial period and the American Revolution. Recommended!
Here's one interesting excerpt from an article about preaching in colonial times:
"Over the span of the colonial era, American ministers delivered approximately 8 million sermons, each lasting one to one-and-a-half hours. The average 70-year-old colonial churchgoer would have listened to some 7,000 sermons in his or her lifetime, totaling nearly 10,000 hours of concentrated listening. This is the number of classroom hours it would take to receive ten separate undergraduate degrees in a modern university, without ever repeating the same course!
The pulpits were Congregational and Baptist in New England; Presbyterian, Lutheran, and German Reformed in Pennsylvania and New Jersey; and Anglican and Methodist in the South. But no matter the denomination, colonial congregations heard sermons more than any other form of oratory. The colonial sermon was prophet, newspaper, video, Internet, community college, and social therapist all wrapped in one. Such was the range of its influence on all aspects of life that even contemporary television and personal computers pale in comparison."
Monday, June 26, 2006
Toothpick Duct-Taped to a Lead Pipe
I liked this Perry Noble post, reminding us of our position in Christ:
"Christ Jesus makes us unstoppable. Yes, I know that there is an enemy named satan…but folks–HE LOSES! Jesus defeated him on the cross and one day will ultimately kick his butt and send him to hell! WE WIN! We are empowered! And God has not called any of us to sit on the sideline–but rather to “go for it.”
One of the things we need to STOP doing is imagining ourselves as weak, pathetic human beings that are not capable of accomplishing anything significant–well…if you are NOT in Christ then that is true–but in Christ you are like that lady in the truck–a powerful force.
OR–like the great scholar Lee McDerment said once–that we are all like little toothpicks…and we are easily broken…but when you accept Christ then you become a toothpick that gets duct-taped to a lead pipe–and then NOTHING can shatter you because of WHO you are attached to!"
I liked this Perry Noble post, reminding us of our position in Christ:
"Christ Jesus makes us unstoppable. Yes, I know that there is an enemy named satan…but folks–HE LOSES! Jesus defeated him on the cross and one day will ultimately kick his butt and send him to hell! WE WIN! We are empowered! And God has not called any of us to sit on the sideline–but rather to “go for it.”
One of the things we need to STOP doing is imagining ourselves as weak, pathetic human beings that are not capable of accomplishing anything significant–well…if you are NOT in Christ then that is true–but in Christ you are like that lady in the truck–a powerful force.
OR–like the great scholar Lee McDerment said once–that we are all like little toothpicks…and we are easily broken…but when you accept Christ then you become a toothpick that gets duct-taped to a lead pipe–and then NOTHING can shatter you because of WHO you are attached to!"
Friday, June 23, 2006
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Barbary Pirates and 21st Century Terrorists
Joshua London has written a useful history of the American war against the Barbary Pirates -- there are many lessons to learn about fighting Islamofascist terrorists today. I encourage you to read this excellent interview with the author. You'll come away with a better understanding of the history of the Marines, the nature of the enemy we're fighting now, and why this is a Long War.
Joshua London has written a useful history of the American war against the Barbary Pirates -- there are many lessons to learn about fighting Islamofascist terrorists today. I encourage you to read this excellent interview with the author. You'll come away with a better understanding of the history of the Marines, the nature of the enemy we're fighting now, and why this is a Long War.
Federal Regulations Hurt US Oil, Natural Gas Production
Pete duPont's editorial "Addicted to Regulation" outlines Federal laws and regulations over the last 25 years that greatly restrict domestic oil and natural gas production. US oil consumption is more than 20 million barrels/day (up from about 15 million b/d in the early 1980's). Our production has declined to 5 million b/d from about 10 million b/d in 1970.
There is abundant supply (105 billion barrels off the continental shelf and in Alaska), and low-impact means to acquire it, yet Federal Laws have put nearly all this off limits for production.
I believe the economic potential of cheap gas is huge -- it promotes manufacturing, transportation, and profitability for all kinds of commercial and non-commercial ventures. Cheap power sources have always fueled economic and social progress, throughout history.
We need to pursue other options as well. Nuclear power is a must. Hydro-electric should continue where it's feasible. We have many options for clean-burning coal. Solar and wind have growth potential.
(Hydrogen gets a lot of media buzz, but simple physics make it unlikely to be successful.)
Christians should be good thinkers. Yes, it's true that the proven US oil reserves (without oil shale) will only take care of US needs for 25 years, allowing for 30% demand rate increases. But that's 25 years we can use to bring other options on line. That's 25 years to improve batteries, for example, so that electric vehicles are more practical.
Pete duPont's editorial "Addicted to Regulation" outlines Federal laws and regulations over the last 25 years that greatly restrict domestic oil and natural gas production. US oil consumption is more than 20 million barrels/day (up from about 15 million b/d in the early 1980's). Our production has declined to 5 million b/d from about 10 million b/d in 1970.
There is abundant supply (105 billion barrels off the continental shelf and in Alaska), and low-impact means to acquire it, yet Federal Laws have put nearly all this off limits for production.
I believe the economic potential of cheap gas is huge -- it promotes manufacturing, transportation, and profitability for all kinds of commercial and non-commercial ventures. Cheap power sources have always fueled economic and social progress, throughout history.
We need to pursue other options as well. Nuclear power is a must. Hydro-electric should continue where it's feasible. We have many options for clean-burning coal. Solar and wind have growth potential.
(Hydrogen gets a lot of media buzz, but simple physics make it unlikely to be successful.)
Christians should be good thinkers. Yes, it's true that the proven US oil reserves (without oil shale) will only take care of US needs for 25 years, allowing for 30% demand rate increases. But that's 25 years we can use to bring other options on line. That's 25 years to improve batteries, for example, so that electric vehicles are more practical.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Why Email is Good
It's fashionable to complain about email. I think we need more genuine dialogue, including face-to-face conversations. All communication, to be effective, takes training -- and we are ever learning.
David Maister makes some excellent points about why email is good:
"[E]ven though it's traditional to bemoan the increasing use of email, let me (just for the heck of it) take the other side and try to make the case (my points are serious here) why using email is INCREASING our abilities to connect:
a) You can type, re-type and re-re-type an email until it says what you want, the way you want it. Done right, there are none of the ambiguities of human speech ( "What I meant to say was..") Email can promote clarity
b) You can ask a friend or a spouse or anyone else to help you say it right. Try doing THAT in the real world. Email can promote collaboration and friendship
c) You can keep five or six (or more) conversations going at once without anyone feeling slighted that you do not have all your focus on them alone. Email means you can make everyone feel special.
d) You can keep track of what people said and hold them to their promises. Email can promote honesty.
e) Email removes the visual, body-language, verbal-accent cues that we over-rely on when reacting to other people: email can promote the importance of reason and logic, and reduces bias due to gender, racial or national background or appearance. It is profoundly democratic and politically important.
f) Email allows us to think before we react, thereby promoting less stress, thoughtless comments and knee-jerk reactions. It allows people who are not naturally quick at interpreting other people's remarks to reflect and respond with greater emotional intelligence. Email can facilitate good relationship interactions and language."
It's fashionable to complain about email. I think we need more genuine dialogue, including face-to-face conversations. All communication, to be effective, takes training -- and we are ever learning.
David Maister makes some excellent points about why email is good:
"[E]ven though it's traditional to bemoan the increasing use of email, let me (just for the heck of it) take the other side and try to make the case (my points are serious here) why using email is INCREASING our abilities to connect:
a) You can type, re-type and re-re-type an email until it says what you want, the way you want it. Done right, there are none of the ambiguities of human speech ( "What I meant to say was..") Email can promote clarity
b) You can ask a friend or a spouse or anyone else to help you say it right. Try doing THAT in the real world. Email can promote collaboration and friendship
c) You can keep five or six (or more) conversations going at once without anyone feeling slighted that you do not have all your focus on them alone. Email means you can make everyone feel special.
d) You can keep track of what people said and hold them to their promises. Email can promote honesty.
e) Email removes the visual, body-language, verbal-accent cues that we over-rely on when reacting to other people: email can promote the importance of reason and logic, and reduces bias due to gender, racial or national background or appearance. It is profoundly democratic and politically important.
f) Email allows us to think before we react, thereby promoting less stress, thoughtless comments and knee-jerk reactions. It allows people who are not naturally quick at interpreting other people's remarks to reflect and respond with greater emotional intelligence. Email can facilitate good relationship interactions and language."
Strong Christian Leadership
David McCullough gave a speech on John Adams at Hillsdale College. Worth reading. See how a purposeful Christian man worked to serve others! (And his wife.)
David McCullough gave a speech on John Adams at Hillsdale College. Worth reading. See how a purposeful Christian man worked to serve others! (And his wife.)
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Battle Training
We like to think about the story of David v. Goliath (1 Sam 17) and say to ourselves, "See what God can do with even a little skinny kid!"
Don't miss these important facts:
1. David had already been annointed by Samuel (1 Sam 16:13): "and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came upon David in power."
2. David was an armor-bearer in the house of Saul (1 Sam 16:21-22) and had experience in the company of strong men.
3. David had defended sheep from a lion and a bear -- and killed them both. (1 Sam 17:34-37) Guys, think about going one-on-one with a wild lion and a wild bear. That's not weenie stuff.
God arranged battle training for David before he ever met Goliath. Yes, he was a youth, but not a pampered momma's boy kid.
How has God been arranging your training for future battles? And what are we doing to train our sons and daughters to win battles?
We like to think about the story of David v. Goliath (1 Sam 17) and say to ourselves, "See what God can do with even a little skinny kid!"
Don't miss these important facts:
1. David had already been annointed by Samuel (1 Sam 16:13): "and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came upon David in power."
2. David was an armor-bearer in the house of Saul (1 Sam 16:21-22) and had experience in the company of strong men.
3. David had defended sheep from a lion and a bear -- and killed them both. (1 Sam 17:34-37) Guys, think about going one-on-one with a wild lion and a wild bear. That's not weenie stuff.
God arranged battle training for David before he ever met Goliath. Yes, he was a youth, but not a pampered momma's boy kid.
How has God been arranging your training for future battles? And what are we doing to train our sons and daughters to win battles?
It's Father's Day Again
I really enjoyed Father's Day, and was wonderfully pampered by my family -- I watched parts of the US Open golf tournament!
It's good to have a day to honor our fathers.
But today is Father's Day. And tomorrow will be, too. And every day until we don't read about these kinds of statistics any more:
"According to the CDC, DoJ, DHHA, and the Bureau of the Census, the 30% of children who live apart from their fathers will account for 63% of teen suicides, 70% of juveniles in state-operated institutions, 71% of high-school dropouts, 75% of children in chemical abuse centers, 80% of rapists, 85% of youths in prison, and 85% of children who exhibit behavioral disorders. In addition, 90% of homeless and runaway children are from fatherless homes. In fact, children born to unwed mothers are 10 times more likely to live in poverty as children with fathers in the home.... David Blankenhorn, president of the Institute for American values, adds '[The absence of fathers] from family life is surely the most socially consequential family trend of our era.' "
(I took this from the 6-16-06 issue of The Federalist newsletter.)
We sang "Rise Up, O Men of God!" at our church on Father's Day. The point of that hymn is that men need to rise up not just once but again and again. Today is another day for dads everywhere to be dads, honor the Lord, and save this and the next generation from darkness.
If you're looking for a good place to begin, check out this compilation of verses about family, by Kevin Nelstead.
I really enjoyed Father's Day, and was wonderfully pampered by my family -- I watched parts of the US Open golf tournament!
It's good to have a day to honor our fathers.
But today is Father's Day. And tomorrow will be, too. And every day until we don't read about these kinds of statistics any more:
"According to the CDC, DoJ, DHHA, and the Bureau of the Census, the 30% of children who live apart from their fathers will account for 63% of teen suicides, 70% of juveniles in state-operated institutions, 71% of high-school dropouts, 75% of children in chemical abuse centers, 80% of rapists, 85% of youths in prison, and 85% of children who exhibit behavioral disorders. In addition, 90% of homeless and runaway children are from fatherless homes. In fact, children born to unwed mothers are 10 times more likely to live in poverty as children with fathers in the home.... David Blankenhorn, president of the Institute for American values, adds '[The absence of fathers] from family life is surely the most socially consequential family trend of our era.' "
(I took this from the 6-16-06 issue of The Federalist newsletter.)
We sang "Rise Up, O Men of God!" at our church on Father's Day. The point of that hymn is that men need to rise up not just once but again and again. Today is another day for dads everywhere to be dads, honor the Lord, and save this and the next generation from darkness.
If you're looking for a good place to begin, check out this compilation of verses about family, by Kevin Nelstead.
The Superman Movie Is Coming!
Here's an interesting column thanking Hollywood for not pursuing the evangelical audience to promote the new Superman movie.
Here's an interesting column thanking Hollywood for not pursuing the evangelical audience to promote the new Superman movie.
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Writing "Today's Psuedochristian Version"
Sometimes the best way to get the real meaning of a Bible passage across to a group is to give them a made-up version that is ironic, satirical, or sarcastic. The made-up version has to sound like how some people really think -- the contrast effect is what helps people learn!
I'm teaching tomorrow on Hebrews 12:1-3. Here's the made-up version I've created to help this group recognize and grip the REAL instruction:
“Anyway, as long as you think people are watching, don’t be seen holding on to extra trinkets and gear, but leave them conveniently nearby so you can pick them up again. Since nobody really knows what’s around the bend, don’t push yourself beyond a sensible run-walk pace, and take breaks at every scenic turnout in the road. Look at Jesus occasionally, certainly on Sunday morning, and make sure others see you doing it. It’s his fault your in this mess, after all. Just because Jesus suffered doesn’t mean you have to, and besides, he died a long time ago in a country far, far away. If you get discouraged, well, other people sometimes feel that way. Buck up, plan to start again soon, and hopefully you’ll feel more like running later on.”
(I refer to this as "Today's Pseudochristian Version")
Here's the authentic text (NIV) so you can the comparison effect:“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
This is a fun way to teach and coach your kids. As they get older, ask them to help create the pseudo version -- they'll learn a lot!
Sometimes the best way to get the real meaning of a Bible passage across to a group is to give them a made-up version that is ironic, satirical, or sarcastic. The made-up version has to sound like how some people really think -- the contrast effect is what helps people learn!
I'm teaching tomorrow on Hebrews 12:1-3. Here's the made-up version I've created to help this group recognize and grip the REAL instruction:
“Anyway, as long as you think people are watching, don’t be seen holding on to extra trinkets and gear, but leave them conveniently nearby so you can pick them up again. Since nobody really knows what’s around the bend, don’t push yourself beyond a sensible run-walk pace, and take breaks at every scenic turnout in the road. Look at Jesus occasionally, certainly on Sunday morning, and make sure others see you doing it. It’s his fault your in this mess, after all. Just because Jesus suffered doesn’t mean you have to, and besides, he died a long time ago in a country far, far away. If you get discouraged, well, other people sometimes feel that way. Buck up, plan to start again soon, and hopefully you’ll feel more like running later on.”
(I refer to this as "Today's Pseudochristian Version")
Here's the authentic text (NIV) so you can the comparison effect:“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
This is a fun way to teach and coach your kids. As they get older, ask them to help create the pseudo version -- they'll learn a lot!
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Progressive, Patient Attack Strategies Used Against God's Men
John Stanford has some good counsel for us:
"New followers of Christ are soon attacked with strong temptations from the Devil. His goal is to cause them to despair and turn from following Christ.
If this initial attack fails, the Devil will wait a while until the new believer's zeal has cooled, and then try new temptations.
Later, when the believer is growing well spiritually, the Devil will plant in his or her mind the temptation that the progress is due to the believer's efforts, not God's.
A fourth way the Devil attacks is to focus on the believer's weaknesses. A common attack is when the Devil plants seeds of sexual lust."
You can sign up for John Stanford's email encouragement here.
John Stanford has some good counsel for us:
"New followers of Christ are soon attacked with strong temptations from the Devil. His goal is to cause them to despair and turn from following Christ.
If this initial attack fails, the Devil will wait a while until the new believer's zeal has cooled, and then try new temptations.
Later, when the believer is growing well spiritually, the Devil will plant in his or her mind the temptation that the progress is due to the believer's efforts, not God's.
A fourth way the Devil attacks is to focus on the believer's weaknesses. A common attack is when the Devil plants seeds of sexual lust."
You can sign up for John Stanford's email encouragement here.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Flag Day
Today is Flag Day in the US. There are some wonderful traditions with the US Flag, including some significant meanings that have been attached to the ceremony of folding the flag.
"The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life.
The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life.
The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.
The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance.
The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our Country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong."
The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States Of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.
The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic.
The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day.
The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded.
The tenth fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born.
The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son, and Holy Spirit.
When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our nation's motto, "In God We Trust". After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the sailors and marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today. There are some traditions and ways of doing things which have deep meaning. You will see many flags folded in the coming weeks, and now you will know why."
(See this site for some clarification that these are not "official.")
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Condiment or Meal?
A primary spiritual and practical problem is that we confuse condiments and meals.
Let me try to explain the metaphor.
My kids like to slather lots of butter or jelly on a chunk of bread. The bread, after all, is just a vector for the good part -- the butter! So the layer of butter sometimes approaches the thickness of the bread. (Where did they learn this? From me, of course.) Sometimes I tease the kids by asking, "Would you like a little bread with your butter?"
Really, the bread is the meal, and the butter should just be a condiment.
Please don't get me started on what people do with ketchup. :-)
Jesus is the Bread of Life. The Word of God is our daily bread. Worship in spirit and truth is our meal. Giving ourselves to serve others is our meal.
We spend way too much time on "condiments" -- things which are nice, add a little zip, but shouldn't detract from the real meal. TV is a condiment, not a meal. Use it that way.
What are some other condiments in your life?
A primary spiritual and practical problem is that we confuse condiments and meals.
Let me try to explain the metaphor.
My kids like to slather lots of butter or jelly on a chunk of bread. The bread, after all, is just a vector for the good part -- the butter! So the layer of butter sometimes approaches the thickness of the bread. (Where did they learn this? From me, of course.) Sometimes I tease the kids by asking, "Would you like a little bread with your butter?"
Really, the bread is the meal, and the butter should just be a condiment.
Please don't get me started on what people do with ketchup. :-)
Jesus is the Bread of Life. The Word of God is our daily bread. Worship in spirit and truth is our meal. Giving ourselves to serve others is our meal.
We spend way too much time on "condiments" -- things which are nice, add a little zip, but shouldn't detract from the real meal. TV is a condiment, not a meal. Use it that way.
What are some other condiments in your life?
Saturday, June 10, 2006
You Can't Charge Hell Like This
Mark Driscoll, pastor of Mars Hill Church had some strong, challenging words for men in his church:
"Things were starting to get out of hand with the men, so I called a meeting and demanded that all of the men in our church attend. I preached for more than two hours about manhood and basically gave the dad talk to my men for looking at porno, sleeping with young women, not serving Christ, not working hard at their jobs, and so on. I demanded that the men who were with me on our mission to change the city stay and that the rest leave the church and stop getting in the way because you can’t charge hell with your pants around your ankles, a bottle of lotion in one hand, and a Kleenex in the other.”
Cited here.
Mark Driscoll, pastor of Mars Hill Church had some strong, challenging words for men in his church:
"Things were starting to get out of hand with the men, so I called a meeting and demanded that all of the men in our church attend. I preached for more than two hours about manhood and basically gave the dad talk to my men for looking at porno, sleeping with young women, not serving Christ, not working hard at their jobs, and so on. I demanded that the men who were with me on our mission to change the city stay and that the rest leave the church and stop getting in the way because you can’t charge hell with your pants around your ankles, a bottle of lotion in one hand, and a Kleenex in the other.”
Cited here.
A Fatherly Task
"We must diligently strive to make our young men decent, God-fearing, law-abiding, honor-loving, justice-doing, and also fearless and strong, able to hold their own in the hurly-burly of the world's work, able to strive mightily that the forces of right may be in the end triumphant. And we must be ever vigilant in so telling them." -- Teddy Roosevelt
"We must diligently strive to make our young men decent, God-fearing, law-abiding, honor-loving, justice-doing, and also fearless and strong, able to hold their own in the hurly-burly of the world's work, able to strive mightily that the forces of right may be in the end triumphant. And we must be ever vigilant in so telling them." -- Teddy Roosevelt
Friday, June 09, 2006
Pray for Our Brothers and Sisters in China
The Church is flourishing in China, despite persecution. Please continue to pray for God's holy fire to sweep through millions of hearts in this country, and around the world.
The Church is flourishing in China, despite persecution. Please continue to pray for God's holy fire to sweep through millions of hearts in this country, and around the world.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Profiling
I'd glad that Canadian officials caught 17 terror-planning men and arrested them. Now I'm hearing two criticisms of this event from a left-leaning, ACLU promoting friend:
1. The police were using profiling strategies unfairly to single out these men.
2. No one is talking about the details of the case, and there's only enough information to make a news headline.
My thoughts:
1. I support the profiling work done that gave extra attention to Arab men. I think it is rational and right to allocate resources (time, attention, scrutiny, money) differentially when there is good reason to believe some individuals with specific ethnic or country origins or religious beliefs are much more likely to be terrorists than others.
Can profiling efforts be abused or miss individuals -- absolutely. We live in a fallen world. If you want fair, you may need to get a different universe. (Side note: give this some thought, you really don't want fair. You and I benefit tremendously by unfair treatment from our Lord.)
Here's another person who says hoorah for profiling.
2. Whatever information is trumpeted on the news gets to our enemies, as well. So less news about what happened is appropriate.
We must remain vigilant. This is going to be a long war.
I'd glad that Canadian officials caught 17 terror-planning men and arrested them. Now I'm hearing two criticisms of this event from a left-leaning, ACLU promoting friend:
1. The police were using profiling strategies unfairly to single out these men.
2. No one is talking about the details of the case, and there's only enough information to make a news headline.
My thoughts:
1. I support the profiling work done that gave extra attention to Arab men. I think it is rational and right to allocate resources (time, attention, scrutiny, money) differentially when there is good reason to believe some individuals with specific ethnic or country origins or religious beliefs are much more likely to be terrorists than others.
Can profiling efforts be abused or miss individuals -- absolutely. We live in a fallen world. If you want fair, you may need to get a different universe. (Side note: give this some thought, you really don't want fair. You and I benefit tremendously by unfair treatment from our Lord.)
Here's another person who says hoorah for profiling.
2. Whatever information is trumpeted on the news gets to our enemies, as well. So less news about what happened is appropriate.
We must remain vigilant. This is going to be a long war.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Anniversary of D-Day
Sixty-two years ago today American and British forces created a 5 mile wide beachhead at Normandy, France. That beachhead, dearly bought, was the opening of liberty for Europe. They poured men and materiel through that beachhead that pushed the Nazi regime back, retook the cities and villages, and restored them to their rightful owners.
Men, remind your families about D-Day. Talk with your sons about honor and sacrifice and freedom. (Check out the National D-Day Museum and the PBS American Experience sites.) The movie Saving Private Ryan is intense, but has some of the best portrayals of what storming the beach would have been like. A friend's father who was in the 2nd wave of boats at Omaha beach (and the only survivor of his boat that day) has told me that one difference is that the movie actors were too old. Most of the men hitting that beach were 17, 18, and 19. If you were 21 you were an old man.
But be sure also to talk with your families about spiritual beachheads. Militarily, a beachhead is a secure zone from which you can launch new attacks. God is working in His Church, in each of His people, to create beachheads that are launching points to retake what Satan has usurped. May the Holy Spirit pour through us to touch, reclaim, and restore thousands and hundreds of thousands and millions of lives! May we be large and clean conduits of the grace of Christ, for the glory of His Name, no matter what our sacrifice.
There are things worth dying for, men.
Sixty-two years ago today American and British forces created a 5 mile wide beachhead at Normandy, France. That beachhead, dearly bought, was the opening of liberty for Europe. They poured men and materiel through that beachhead that pushed the Nazi regime back, retook the cities and villages, and restored them to their rightful owners.
Men, remind your families about D-Day. Talk with your sons about honor and sacrifice and freedom. (Check out the National D-Day Museum and the PBS American Experience sites.) The movie Saving Private Ryan is intense, but has some of the best portrayals of what storming the beach would have been like. A friend's father who was in the 2nd wave of boats at Omaha beach (and the only survivor of his boat that day) has told me that one difference is that the movie actors were too old. Most of the men hitting that beach were 17, 18, and 19. If you were 21 you were an old man.
But be sure also to talk with your families about spiritual beachheads. Militarily, a beachhead is a secure zone from which you can launch new attacks. God is working in His Church, in each of His people, to create beachheads that are launching points to retake what Satan has usurped. May the Holy Spirit pour through us to touch, reclaim, and restore thousands and hundreds of thousands and millions of lives! May we be large and clean conduits of the grace of Christ, for the glory of His Name, no matter what our sacrifice.
There are things worth dying for, men.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
The Great Animal Namer
Geoff Thomas has a useful article talking about Adam. I had not considered the significance of Adam naming the animals of the field the Lord brought to him. There is a useful insight here, too, that this great work needed to be done before the Lord created Eve as his suitable helper. Recommended.
Geoff Thomas has a useful article talking about Adam. I had not considered the significance of Adam naming the animals of the field the Lord brought to him. There is a useful insight here, too, that this great work needed to be done before the Lord created Eve as his suitable helper. Recommended.
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Future Geological Events
Kevin Nelstead posts about events that are geologically likely -- based on historical frequency -- for the next 1000, 10000, 100000, and 1000000 years! Plus he gives some great comments about how Christians should view future Earth. Guys, this makes for fun dinner conversation with the family. Check it out.
Kevin Nelstead posts about events that are geologically likely -- based on historical frequency -- for the next 1000, 10000, 100000, and 1000000 years! Plus he gives some great comments about how Christians should view future Earth. Guys, this makes for fun dinner conversation with the family. Check it out.
English Standard Version?
I'm looking for people who have been using the English Standard Version translation of the Bible. I continue to read positive press, but would like some personal testimonies. Please contact me at info@teachtochangelives or add a comment about your experience. Thanks!
I'm looking for people who have been using the English Standard Version translation of the Bible. I continue to read positive press, but would like some personal testimonies. Please contact me at info@teachtochangelives or add a comment about your experience. Thanks!
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Loving God With Your Medial Ventral Prefrontal Cortex
That's the idea that Mark Batterson proposes in his blog. He's starting a sermon series on neurology and faith. He makes an excellent point:
"I have this conviction: every ology is a branch of theology. That is based on Romans 1:20. Every branch of science reveals a new dimension of the Creator."
Yes!
That's the idea that Mark Batterson proposes in his blog. He's starting a sermon series on neurology and faith. He makes an excellent point:
"I have this conviction: every ology is a branch of theology. That is based on Romans 1:20. Every branch of science reveals a new dimension of the Creator."
Yes!
Learning to Be Good Listeners
[A joke with a point!]
A man was sitting on the edge of the bed, observing his wife turning back and forth, looking at herself in the mirror. Since her birthday was not far off, he asked what she'd like to have for her Birthday. I'd like to be six again, she replied, still looking in the mirror.
On the morning of her Birthday, he arose early, made her a nice big bowl of Lucky Charms, and then took her to Six Flags theme park. What a day! He put her on every ride in the park; the Death Slide, the Wall of Fear, the Screaming Monster Roller Coaster... everything there was.
Five hours later they staggered out of the theme park. Her head was reeling and her stomach felt upside down. He then took her to a McDonald's where he ordered her a Happy Meal with extra fries and a chocolate shake. Then it was off to a movie, popcorn, a soda pop, and her favorite candy, ..M&M's. What a fabulous adventure !
Finally she wobbled home with her husband and collapsed into bed exhausted. He leaned over his wife with a big smile and lovingly asked, "Well Dear, what was it like being six again?" Her eyes slowly opened and her expression suddenly changed. "I meant my Dress Size, you goofball!"
[This joke is in lots of places on the Internet]
[A joke with a point!]
A man was sitting on the edge of the bed, observing his wife turning back and forth, looking at herself in the mirror. Since her birthday was not far off, he asked what she'd like to have for her Birthday. I'd like to be six again, she replied, still looking in the mirror.
On the morning of her Birthday, he arose early, made her a nice big bowl of Lucky Charms, and then took her to Six Flags theme park. What a day! He put her on every ride in the park; the Death Slide, the Wall of Fear, the Screaming Monster Roller Coaster... everything there was.
Five hours later they staggered out of the theme park. Her head was reeling and her stomach felt upside down. He then took her to a McDonald's where he ordered her a Happy Meal with extra fries and a chocolate shake. Then it was off to a movie, popcorn, a soda pop, and her favorite candy, ..M&M's. What a fabulous adventure !
Finally she wobbled home with her husband and collapsed into bed exhausted. He leaned over his wife with a big smile and lovingly asked, "Well Dear, what was it like being six again?" Her eyes slowly opened and her expression suddenly changed. "I meant my Dress Size, you goofball!"
[This joke is in lots of places on the Internet]
Origins of Lucerna Font
Here's an interesting article about the story behind the Lucerna font used in some Bibles. This is a nice example of a team of people using all their skills to glorify God.
Here's an interesting article about the story behind the Lucerna font used in some Bibles. This is a nice example of a team of people using all their skills to glorify God.
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