A few months ago I received a shipment from the Relevant Network. The usual stuff - five or six books, four or five CDs, a handful of Relevant Magazine and Radiant Magazine, and a DVD. After reading First, Break All the Rules, I needed something a little bit light. So I picked up The Gospel According to Starbucks by Leonard Sweet. This book arrived in the Relevant Network shipment.
Leonard Sweet tries to tie together to community and connections that are built at Starbucks to the need for the Church to embrace the same drive. It's definitely not the deepest book I have ever read. Sweet makes some good points. There is nothing earth shaking new here. If you are in a church that doesn't do community well, this may be a good book to pick up.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Guest Blogger
It's been a while since I last posted and our Senior Management Team is leaving this afternoon for a retreat together, so I will not be posting for even longer. In the mean time I asked our Pastor to Student Ministries to if I could share his devotion (powerful stuff) from our last staff meeting. Here it is...
Sometimes I’m fascinated most by what the Bible doesn’t say…Part 2:
I wonder what thoughts raced through David’s mind as he raised the severed head of Goliath. Were they thoughts of confidence and victory; or awe and wonder; were they thoughts of accomplishment, achievement, and celebration; or was he so dedicated to simply serving the Lord that the severed head of Goliath felt in David’s hands to be more like a quote “reasonable act of worship”? I just wonder…
I wonder about the Shepherds who had been watching their flocks by night. I wonder what kind of conversation they had during their visit at Bethlehem’s manger. Were they apprehensive at first? Did they sing Him a lullaby or touch His little toes? Could they even speak when they saw the precious baby Jesus asleep on the hay? And I wonder if we’ll ever really experience that at Christmas?
I wonder about Bartimaeus. He cried out to Jesus, over and over and over again, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Even after being told to be quiet, he shouted all the more, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And, oh, how I wonder just how cherished he felt when the disciples finally responded to him saying, “On your feet. He’s calling you!”
I wonder about the Samaritan woman at the well. After meeting Jesus that day, I wonder if she continued her mid-day trips, or was just one taste of Living Water enough to redeem a sense of worth great enough to come, instead, at morning…After all, it is for freedom which Christ set us free…And I wonder if she ever drew water again without praising the name of a Jew who was willing to look beyond His own nationalism…the name of a God who was willing to look beyond His own holiness… For the record, I really, really hope that she went back to the well at morning, and I pray that we are building a ministry that is so full of grace and invitation that the “mid-day crowd” starts getting their water a little earlier… Can I get an “amen” to that?
I wonder about Moses. I wonder if he was ever truly able to appreciate the warmth of that pillar of fire by night or the shade of that pillar of cloud by day. I wonder if he ever ate a single piece of manna without dreaming of the day…that glorious day when he would finally dine on milk and honey…because, quite frankly, I’m grateful for my daily bread, but my heart sure longs for Canaan-land…
I wonder what emotions Noah felt once it finally started to rain.
I wonder how the heart of worship looked in the bleeding woman once her bleeding stopped.
I wonder if the man who was born blind was ever able to see a mud puddle without being reminded of His goodness.
I wonder…what was the look on Mary and Martha’s faces when they saw their dead brother Lazarus walk out of his grave?
I wonder about the boy who sacrificed his 5 loaves and 2 fish unto Jesus…Did he have any clue how history would be impacted by such a humble sacrifice? And could it be that God is using our humble sacrifices the same way?
I wonder what Paul said to Stephen once he got to heaven, or better yet, I wonder what Stephen said to Paul…
I wonder what John felt as he lived through the martyrdom of all of the rest of the Apostles.
But most of all I wonder if we don’t spend the lot of our days taking all of this for granted. Jesus has paid the price of our sins. He has beat the hell out of death. He sealed our victory, and promised His assistance every day of our lives. The Bible says it like this, “Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God; the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary and young men stumble and fall. But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not grow faint. For I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you do not fear.”
So could it be that today you and I would all take the time to read between the lines of our faith and take the time to recognize our role in the great eternal act of His story…making the most of every opportunity to see the unseen; to embrace the eternal; and to fill in the gaps that so many are content to leave empty. Amen
Sometimes I’m fascinated most by what the Bible doesn’t say…Part 2:
I wonder what thoughts raced through David’s mind as he raised the severed head of Goliath. Were they thoughts of confidence and victory; or awe and wonder; were they thoughts of accomplishment, achievement, and celebration; or was he so dedicated to simply serving the Lord that the severed head of Goliath felt in David’s hands to be more like a quote “reasonable act of worship”? I just wonder…
I wonder about the Shepherds who had been watching their flocks by night. I wonder what kind of conversation they had during their visit at Bethlehem’s manger. Were they apprehensive at first? Did they sing Him a lullaby or touch His little toes? Could they even speak when they saw the precious baby Jesus asleep on the hay? And I wonder if we’ll ever really experience that at Christmas?
I wonder about Bartimaeus. He cried out to Jesus, over and over and over again, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Even after being told to be quiet, he shouted all the more, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And, oh, how I wonder just how cherished he felt when the disciples finally responded to him saying, “On your feet. He’s calling you!”
I wonder about the Samaritan woman at the well. After meeting Jesus that day, I wonder if she continued her mid-day trips, or was just one taste of Living Water enough to redeem a sense of worth great enough to come, instead, at morning…After all, it is for freedom which Christ set us free…And I wonder if she ever drew water again without praising the name of a Jew who was willing to look beyond His own nationalism…the name of a God who was willing to look beyond His own holiness… For the record, I really, really hope that she went back to the well at morning, and I pray that we are building a ministry that is so full of grace and invitation that the “mid-day crowd” starts getting their water a little earlier… Can I get an “amen” to that?
I wonder about Moses. I wonder if he was ever truly able to appreciate the warmth of that pillar of fire by night or the shade of that pillar of cloud by day. I wonder if he ever ate a single piece of manna without dreaming of the day…that glorious day when he would finally dine on milk and honey…because, quite frankly, I’m grateful for my daily bread, but my heart sure longs for Canaan-land…
I wonder what emotions Noah felt once it finally started to rain.
I wonder how the heart of worship looked in the bleeding woman once her bleeding stopped.
I wonder if the man who was born blind was ever able to see a mud puddle without being reminded of His goodness.
I wonder…what was the look on Mary and Martha’s faces when they saw their dead brother Lazarus walk out of his grave?
I wonder about the boy who sacrificed his 5 loaves and 2 fish unto Jesus…Did he have any clue how history would be impacted by such a humble sacrifice? And could it be that God is using our humble sacrifices the same way?
I wonder what Paul said to Stephen once he got to heaven, or better yet, I wonder what Stephen said to Paul…
I wonder what John felt as he lived through the martyrdom of all of the rest of the Apostles.
But most of all I wonder if we don’t spend the lot of our days taking all of this for granted. Jesus has paid the price of our sins. He has beat the hell out of death. He sealed our victory, and promised His assistance every day of our lives. The Bible says it like this, “Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God; the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary and young men stumble and fall. But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not grow faint. For I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you do not fear.”
So could it be that today you and I would all take the time to read between the lines of our faith and take the time to recognize our role in the great eternal act of His story…making the most of every opportunity to see the unseen; to embrace the eternal; and to fill in the gaps that so many are content to leave empty. Amen
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
June at a Glance
June 2/3 - I preached
656 in worship (60.4% increase from 2006)
230 in Sunday school (27.8% increase from 2006)
June 9/10 - Dave preached
638 in worship (54.9% increase from 2006)
212 in Sunday school (39.5% increase from 2006)
June 16/17 - I preached
548 in worship (54.8% increase from 2006)
192 in Sunday school (23.1% increase from 2006)
June 23/24 - I preached
584 in worship (75.4% increase from 2006)
219 in Sunday school (13.8% increase from 2006)
I am blown away by the percentage increase in attendance this year. We have had a definite drop off in worship attendance because of summer vacations, but to compare the numbers from last year is just incredible. I hope and pray that the people of Charter Oak Church will continue to dedicate themselves to being in worship every weekend they are home and will continue to have the courage to take a risk on someone in their circle of influence and invite them to worship with them. The month of June was great. All praise goes to God Almighty!
656 in worship (60.4% increase from 2006)
230 in Sunday school (27.8% increase from 2006)
June 9/10 - Dave preached
638 in worship (54.9% increase from 2006)
212 in Sunday school (39.5% increase from 2006)
June 16/17 - I preached
548 in worship (54.8% increase from 2006)
192 in Sunday school (23.1% increase from 2006)
June 23/24 - I preached
584 in worship (75.4% increase from 2006)
219 in Sunday school (13.8% increase from 2006)
I am blown away by the percentage increase in attendance this year. We have had a definite drop off in worship attendance because of summer vacations, but to compare the numbers from last year is just incredible. I hope and pray that the people of Charter Oak Church will continue to dedicate themselves to being in worship every weekend they are home and will continue to have the courage to take a risk on someone in their circle of influence and invite them to worship with them. The month of June was great. All praise goes to God Almighty!
Book #13 - First, Break All the Rules
I finished my 13th book of the year, Marcus Buckingham's First, Break All the Rules: What the World's Greatest Managers Do Differently. This is a great book. As I am finishing the book I am already planning on going back and typing all of the notes I have from the book. There is just so much that can be gleaned from this book. One of the best take aways for me was the process of how great managers think differently about each employee.
I could take months digesting the full impact the principles of this book could have on what I am called to do at Charter Oak Church. If you can read through a very business focused book and pull out great principles, I would highly recommend this book.
I could take months digesting the full impact the principles of this book could have on what I am called to do at Charter Oak Church. If you can read through a very business focused book and pull out great principles, I would highly recommend this book.
Tough Times
I started studying a new book of the Bible this morning - Jeremiah. This guy had one of the most difficult assignments ever given by God. The thing is, he was obedient to the call, no matter what the circumstance that he was in. He went through some of the most tough times ever. His response was always, whatever God wants.
The Bible I use to do my early morning Bible study has this in it...
Jeremiah endured several occasions to practice the law of sacrifice
1. He was called to a ministry of opposition (1:18, 19)
2. He was not permitted to marry (16:1, 2)
3. He was beaten and put into stocks (20:1-3)
4. He was publicly disgraced to depict the judgment of Israel (27:1-3)
5. He was imprisoned in a dungeon (38:1-6)
Then the Bible commentator asks this question, "Do you suddenly feel a little better about your plight as a leader? Jeremiah faced horrible odds, yet never walked away from his message or his call from God."
I know there are some people at Charter Oak Church who are going through a very difficult assignment from God right now. I know you are struggling. I know you are questioning God.
Here is what I want you to hear...don't give up. God is at work in your life. God is on your side. He is cheering you on. He is pouring into you. God loves you. God is doing a work in you right now that you may not understand, but your role is to be obedient to him in all things.
Keep looking to God!
The Bible I use to do my early morning Bible study has this in it...
Jeremiah endured several occasions to practice the law of sacrifice
1. He was called to a ministry of opposition (1:18, 19)
2. He was not permitted to marry (16:1, 2)
3. He was beaten and put into stocks (20:1-3)
4. He was publicly disgraced to depict the judgment of Israel (27:1-3)
5. He was imprisoned in a dungeon (38:1-6)
Then the Bible commentator asks this question, "Do you suddenly feel a little better about your plight as a leader? Jeremiah faced horrible odds, yet never walked away from his message or his call from God."
I know there are some people at Charter Oak Church who are going through a very difficult assignment from God right now. I know you are struggling. I know you are questioning God.
Here is what I want you to hear...don't give up. God is at work in your life. God is on your side. He is cheering you on. He is pouring into you. God loves you. God is doing a work in you right now that you may not understand, but your role is to be obedient to him in all things.
Keep looking to God!
Monday, July 2, 2007
Breathe
A couple of notes from worship this past weekend, especially for those of you who attended Saturday night and didn't get the PowerPoint because of a little technical problem that I take responsibility for, sorry about that.
Exodus 3:1-5
Exodus 3:13-15
LORD - Yahweh - YHVH
Breathing - Yod Heh Vav Heh
If the name of God is the sound of breathing,
how does that change the way you view your prayer life?
First breath - Genesis 2:7
Last breath - Mark 15:37
The way we expect God to show up in our lives is not always in line with God
1 Kings 19:11
Never, ever forget the promise of Romans 8:34
"Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10
Final message in the series next week. Stay tuned...
Exodus 3:1-5
Exodus 3:13-15
LORD - Yahweh - YHVH
Breathing - Yod Heh Vav Heh
If the name of God is the sound of breathing,
how does that change the way you view your prayer life?
First breath - Genesis 2:7
Last breath - Mark 15:37
The way we expect God to show up in our lives is not always in line with God
1 Kings 19:11
Never, ever forget the promise of Romans 8:34
"Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10
Final message in the series next week. Stay tuned...
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
A Great Night
Last night our family spent a few hours with some friends of ours who are missionaries in Australia. They are only able to get back to the States about once every five years. I am blown away by the fact that we can only see them that often and yet because we have the same DNA as followers of Jesus, we can re-connect with them as though we just saw them last week.
I loved sitting out in the yard, cooking on the open flame, and hearing Chris talk about what he does with Youth with a Mission. He is an incredible leader and servant of God. As I listened to him talk, I was pumped up. This guys is on fire for the Kingdom of God. He has given his life to raising up leaders that will be sent all over the world to proclaim the Good News of Jesus. As we sat there talking, without even knowing it, he poured energy and passion into me. I love being a part of something that is bigger than I can ever comprehend. It bring Kelli and me such joy to partner with these great friends.
As we were preparing to leave, I gave them a check from our congregation that was a nice chunk of change. I told him that it was just for him and his family to have fun with. He said that so often when people and/or churches send him support money it really has chains attached to it. Rarely does someone give them money for fun. I loved it when Kelli told them to go on a date. The look on Gina's face was priceless. I could tell it had been a very long time since that had happened.
I can't express how awesome it is to be at a church that gets it when it comes to missions. I knew I didn't need to take a special offering or to ask permission to do this. I knew I could confidently bless this family with the complete backing of our congregation.
I loved sitting out in the yard, cooking on the open flame, and hearing Chris talk about what he does with Youth with a Mission. He is an incredible leader and servant of God. As I listened to him talk, I was pumped up. This guys is on fire for the Kingdom of God. He has given his life to raising up leaders that will be sent all over the world to proclaim the Good News of Jesus. As we sat there talking, without even knowing it, he poured energy and passion into me. I love being a part of something that is bigger than I can ever comprehend. It bring Kelli and me such joy to partner with these great friends.
As we were preparing to leave, I gave them a check from our congregation that was a nice chunk of change. I told him that it was just for him and his family to have fun with. He said that so often when people and/or churches send him support money it really has chains attached to it. Rarely does someone give them money for fun. I loved it when Kelli told them to go on a date. The look on Gina's face was priceless. I could tell it had been a very long time since that had happened.
I can't express how awesome it is to be at a church that gets it when it comes to missions. I knew I didn't need to take a special offering or to ask permission to do this. I knew I could confidently bless this family with the complete backing of our congregation.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Book #12 - The Elephant in the Boardroom
I just finished reading The Elephant in the Boardroom: Speaking the Unspoken about Pastoral Transitions by Carolyn Weese and J. Russell Crabtree. The point of this book is to think about and create a strategic plan for the church as it goes through pastoral transition. The book tries to be for every church in every situation and size. This is not a book you should just read from cover to cover. You have to find out what kind of church you are a part of and then follow the line of thinking in the book. Interesting book - I didn't necessarily track with everything in the book, but it did make me think.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Perry Called to Today
I never thought I would ever say those words...Perry called today. But that is what happened. I'm not bragging or name dropping. I am totally sold out to learning. I want to learn from the best. I want to learn from those who have been there and done that, because that is the level that I want to go to and I believe God is leading Charter Oak Church. Why should I make mistakes that others made and are willing to share with me?
Perry is the real deal. I want to talk to leaders, not people who are going to try to say the right thing but not say anything at all. I have been thinking and praying about some really tough issues lately and he just out right said what to do and I didn't even have to ask about it. He knew it was coming. What great insight!
Here are a couple of big things he said to me...
1. Lead at the next level. We are at 750, start making decisions now for what it's going to be like at 1,500.
2. Once you get to 1,000 get a personal, executive assistant. I'm not smart enough to do this without someone "handling" me.
3. Develop leaders - be a leader of leaders - pour into those who are going to take Charter Oak Church to the next level.
4. Hedgehog Concept - be the best at what you can be the best at, the rest is just a distraction.
5. Don't listen to criticism - the bigger you get the louder it will become and it will come from people who are in the Church (the big "C" Church) that just don't get it.
There were a ton of other things too that I can't share here, but I can tell you the time I spent with Perry took me up a level in my leadership. It was awesome.
Thanks Perry for taking the time to pour into me. I know you are an extremely busy guy. You not only get the leading the local church thing, you get the Kingdom building part too! You're the best!
Perry is the real deal. I want to talk to leaders, not people who are going to try to say the right thing but not say anything at all. I have been thinking and praying about some really tough issues lately and he just out right said what to do and I didn't even have to ask about it. He knew it was coming. What great insight!
Here are a couple of big things he said to me...
1. Lead at the next level. We are at 750, start making decisions now for what it's going to be like at 1,500.
2. Once you get to 1,000 get a personal, executive assistant. I'm not smart enough to do this without someone "handling" me.
3. Develop leaders - be a leader of leaders - pour into those who are going to take Charter Oak Church to the next level.
4. Hedgehog Concept - be the best at what you can be the best at, the rest is just a distraction.
5. Don't listen to criticism - the bigger you get the louder it will become and it will come from people who are in the Church (the big "C" Church) that just don't get it.
There were a ton of other things too that I can't share here, but I can tell you the time I spent with Perry took me up a level in my leadership. It was awesome.
Thanks Perry for taking the time to pour into me. I know you are an extremely busy guy. You not only get the leading the local church thing, you get the Kingdom building part too! You're the best!
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Son Force Kids
We kicked off our Vacation Bible School yesterday. I have never seen such an incredible work of creativity for a children's ministry in my life. Our volunteers hit it out of the park. We had over two hundred kids who heard about the love of Jesus. We had tons of moms and dads that were blown away by all of the hard work done by Maxine and her staff. Way to go!
One of the new things we did this year was provide an adults only cafe in our Common Ground. Coffee, specialty drinks, and a variety of finger foods were provided free of charge for parents (mostly moms) to hang out and build some community.
I am reminded once again of how awesome it is to work at Charter Oak Church. I have never been a part of a church whose total focus, energy, and passion is on pointing people to Jesus like it is here!
Monday, June 18, 2007
7 Barriers to Prayer
This past weekend I shared seven barriers to prayer. I thought I would share them here so that if anyone didn't get a chance to write all seven down could get caught up.
- Prayerlessness (James 4:2)
- Unconfessed Sin (Isaiah 59:2)
- Unresolved Relational Conflict (1 John 2:9)
- Selfishness (James 4:3)
- Uncaring Attitude (Proverbs 21:13)
- Inadequate Faith (James 1:5-7)
- Busyness (Luke 10:38-42)
What are some other barriers you can think of and what is the related scripture to it?
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Book #11 - The Imperfect Board Member
I just finished reading my eleventh book of the year - The Imperfect Board Member: Discovering the Seven Disciplines of Governance Excellence by Jim Brown. The book is written in the same format as Patrick Lencioni's books. There is a story that has the point of the book woven throughout it. Then at the end of the book is the explanation of the point. As I am working with the Church Council at Charter Oak Church this book is invaluable. It gave me a completely different understanding of what my role is and what the role of Church Council is. I am thinking about purchasing a copy for everyone on our Council.
One of the real values of this book is that there is a website that goes along with it. The conversation doesn't end at the end of the book. The author is seeking to continue the work that was started. I love that. I can continue to learn. When I have a specific question or issue, I can go directly to the website and find some direction.
If you read this book from a church's perspective, every time you read CEO, replace it with pastor. Every time you read board of directors, replace it with Church Council. I think this book will add incredible value into any pastor's leadership development.
One of the real values of this book is that there is a website that goes along with it. The conversation doesn't end at the end of the book. The author is seeking to continue the work that was started. I love that. I can continue to learn. When I have a specific question or issue, I can go directly to the website and find some direction.
If you read this book from a church's perspective, every time you read CEO, replace it with pastor. Every time you read board of directors, replace it with Church Council. I think this book will add incredible value into any pastor's leadership development.
May at a Glance
May 5/6 - Dave preached
747 in worship (21.3% increase from 2006)
241 in Sunday school (13.6% decrease from 2006)
May 12/13 - I preached
755 in worship (19.5% increase from 2006)
241 in Sunday school (6.2% increase from 2006)
May 19/20 - I preached
775 in worship (32.5% increase from 2006)
242 in Sunday school (15.2% increase from 2006)
May 26/27 - I preached
662 in worship (29.3% increase from 2006)
191 in Sunday school (15.8% increase from 2006)
747 in worship (21.3% increase from 2006)
241 in Sunday school (13.6% decrease from 2006)
May 12/13 - I preached
755 in worship (19.5% increase from 2006)
241 in Sunday school (6.2% increase from 2006)
May 19/20 - I preached
775 in worship (32.5% increase from 2006)
242 in Sunday school (15.2% increase from 2006)
May 26/27 - I preached
662 in worship (29.3% increase from 2006)
191 in Sunday school (15.8% increase from 2006)
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Book #10 - They Like Jesus but not the Church
I just finished reading Dan Kimball's new book They Like Jesus but Not the Church: Insights from Emerging Generations. I always enjoy reading Dan's books because he challenges me to think in ways that I typically don't. He really brings the cultural perspective to the table. Because he is in a very unchurched area of California with tons of young adults he is able to write about the emerging generation like no one else.
The region that Charter Oak Church is in doesn't have the kind of culture around it like Dan's church does. However, there is a growing population of young people in this region who are beginning to be influenced by the culture out west.
Dan comes to many of the same conclusions that I do about the future of the church. We probably disagree on how we get there or why we get there, but the end result is the same. If you want a very thorough look at how the unchurched look at your church, this is a good book to pick up.
The region that Charter Oak Church is in doesn't have the kind of culture around it like Dan's church does. However, there is a growing population of young people in this region who are beginning to be influenced by the culture out west.
Dan comes to many of the same conclusions that I do about the future of the church. We probably disagree on how we get there or why we get there, but the end result is the same. If you want a very thorough look at how the unchurched look at your church, this is a good book to pick up.
Orderly Worship
Devotions for June 5, 2007
Proverbs 5
1 Corinthians 14
Scripture
"But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way." (1 Corinthians 14:40)
Observation
The disunity that Paul was writing about earlier in the letter now comes out again in the context of worship. The followers of Jesus were using the gifts of the Holy Spirit to promote themselves instead of God. They were lifting up speaking in tongues as a way of proving they were more spiritually mature than others who could not.
The focus of their worship became all about what they could do. It was causing division among believers and it was causing unbelievers to think they were crazy. Paul teaches that it's all about God and helping people to follow him. Therefore, preaching in a way that everyone could understand was much better than speaking in tongues. As Paul is teaching about the disruption of the worship service due to speaking in tongues, he also turns to women and tells them to remain silent. Paul concludes the chapter writing that all that he has given them is so that their worship may honor God.
Application
I wonder what the unbelievers thought about the worship services at Corinth? It was obvious that their worship wasn't about God or pointing people toward a relationship with God through Jesus (which Paul says is the point). It makes me wonder about our worship services. What do unbelievers think when they come in and experience worship at Charter Oak Church?
The point of this chapter seems to be that Paul wants to make sure that the focus of worship is upon God and helping unbelievers hear about who God is so they can follow him. Paul wants to remove any barriers to that focus. So he wants the emphasis to be on preaching and not on speaking in tongues. He wants the focus to be on God and not on those who think they are spiritually mature.
Then Paul brings up women in worship. This has caused some major problems for people. If we read this in context it seems obvious to me that Paul is continuing to address distractions in worship and he is not teaching about women's role in churches. Paul is addressing specific issues within the Corinthian church so he must be doing that here as well. There must have been something that was occurring within the context of worship that was disrupting the worship and he wanted it to stop. It shouldn't matter who it is that is causing the disruption of worship, they should be told about it.
The point of our worship must be God and pointing people to a relationship with God through Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, forgive us when we take the focus of our worship off of you and place it on ourselves or anything else. Help us to create worship gatherings that honor you and place you on the throne of our lives. Send those who do not believe to us so that we may point them to you. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
Proverbs 5
1 Corinthians 14
Scripture
"But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way." (1 Corinthians 14:40)
Observation
The disunity that Paul was writing about earlier in the letter now comes out again in the context of worship. The followers of Jesus were using the gifts of the Holy Spirit to promote themselves instead of God. They were lifting up speaking in tongues as a way of proving they were more spiritually mature than others who could not.
The focus of their worship became all about what they could do. It was causing division among believers and it was causing unbelievers to think they were crazy. Paul teaches that it's all about God and helping people to follow him. Therefore, preaching in a way that everyone could understand was much better than speaking in tongues. As Paul is teaching about the disruption of the worship service due to speaking in tongues, he also turns to women and tells them to remain silent. Paul concludes the chapter writing that all that he has given them is so that their worship may honor God.
Application
I wonder what the unbelievers thought about the worship services at Corinth? It was obvious that their worship wasn't about God or pointing people toward a relationship with God through Jesus (which Paul says is the point). It makes me wonder about our worship services. What do unbelievers think when they come in and experience worship at Charter Oak Church?
The point of this chapter seems to be that Paul wants to make sure that the focus of worship is upon God and helping unbelievers hear about who God is so they can follow him. Paul wants to remove any barriers to that focus. So he wants the emphasis to be on preaching and not on speaking in tongues. He wants the focus to be on God and not on those who think they are spiritually mature.
Then Paul brings up women in worship. This has caused some major problems for people. If we read this in context it seems obvious to me that Paul is continuing to address distractions in worship and he is not teaching about women's role in churches. Paul is addressing specific issues within the Corinthian church so he must be doing that here as well. There must have been something that was occurring within the context of worship that was disrupting the worship and he wanted it to stop. It shouldn't matter who it is that is causing the disruption of worship, they should be told about it.
The point of our worship must be God and pointing people to a relationship with God through Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, forgive us when we take the focus of our worship off of you and place it on ourselves or anything else. Help us to create worship gatherings that honor you and place you on the throne of our lives. Send those who do not believe to us so that we may point them to you. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
Monday, June 4, 2007
The End of the Series
This weekend completed the series on Intimacy. I learned a great deal leading up to and during this series. I had seven weeks to prepare, study, and pray over this series. I wrote a forty page study guide. It was the most preparation I have ever put into a message series before.
Here are some things that I learned or I was reminded of:
Here are some things that I learned or I was reminded of:
- Preparation is everything. I was more relaxed going into each weekend because I knew all the work was already done. I just needed to review it.
- Preparation is one of those things that only I can do. I do a lot of different things around here, but the one thing only I can do, is prepare for my messages. I need to remember to focus the majority of my time on only what I can do and then hand off the rest so others can do only what they can do.
- Criticism is louder than praise. I received a couple of critical emails/letters during the series. I also received a ton of praise emails/letters. Which did I focus on? The criticism.
- The total package of the worship service can make me look really good or not. The whole arts package around this series has been fantastic.
- What I get to do around here on the weekends is priceless. But it isn't about me, it's all about God and he deserves all of the praise and glory for what is happening here.
Well, one week off from preaching so I can go to Annual Conference and then I am back for a four week series called - Can You Hear Me Now?
Love in Action
Devotions for June 4, 2007
Proverbs 4
1 Corinthians 13
Scripture
"Love never fails." (1 Corinthians 13:8)
Observation
Paul turns from telling the people of Corinth of how far they have fallen short in their attitude towards their gifting to explaining the most excellent way - love. He points out that we can do all kinds of things, but if it is void of love then it is all for nothing. Instead he teaches what love truly is - love is action. It is not emotional. It is living out the life of Jesus.
Paul acknowledges that we really don't have the full picture yet. We haven't reached perfection, but one day we will, then everything will be revealed. Until that time, the characteristics of faith, hope, and love should be our goals in life. Love being the most important.
Application
This passage is read so much at weddings. It is not merely a chapter for husbands and wives, it is for the Church. We get caught up in so many things that distract us from the mission of God. One of the last characteristics we put on is love. We are not so different from the Corinthians.
We need to capture verses 4-8 and live them out 24/7/365. It should be the cry of our heart to make sure that we are putting on the character of love as demonstrated by Jesus. The Church would be a very different place if we choose to love as Paul teaches.
Prayer
Almighty God, forgive me when I do not love. I know that all too often I am the antithesis of what Paul is writing in 1 Corinthians 13. I want to put on the fullness of the love of Jesus in my life. Help me to choose to love.
I pray that the people of Charter Oak Church will be known for our love for each other, the people in this region, and the people around the world. I pray that we will live love loud for the sake of Jesus. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
Proverbs 4
1 Corinthians 13
Scripture
"Love never fails." (1 Corinthians 13:8)
Observation
Paul turns from telling the people of Corinth of how far they have fallen short in their attitude towards their gifting to explaining the most excellent way - love. He points out that we can do all kinds of things, but if it is void of love then it is all for nothing. Instead he teaches what love truly is - love is action. It is not emotional. It is living out the life of Jesus.
Paul acknowledges that we really don't have the full picture yet. We haven't reached perfection, but one day we will, then everything will be revealed. Until that time, the characteristics of faith, hope, and love should be our goals in life. Love being the most important.
Application
This passage is read so much at weddings. It is not merely a chapter for husbands and wives, it is for the Church. We get caught up in so many things that distract us from the mission of God. One of the last characteristics we put on is love. We are not so different from the Corinthians.
We need to capture verses 4-8 and live them out 24/7/365. It should be the cry of our heart to make sure that we are putting on the character of love as demonstrated by Jesus. The Church would be a very different place if we choose to love as Paul teaches.
Prayer
Almighty God, forgive me when I do not love. I know that all too often I am the antithesis of what Paul is writing in 1 Corinthians 13. I want to put on the fullness of the love of Jesus in my life. Help me to choose to love.
I pray that the people of Charter Oak Church will be known for our love for each other, the people in this region, and the people around the world. I pray that we will live love loud for the sake of Jesus. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Incredible
This past weekend was just plain incredible for me. We had our all time highest attendance on a Memorial Day weekend - 150 more people than last year! The drama was great. The special music was right on the mark. I had the privilege of talking to husbands and wives about their relationship with God and with each other. Man, it was a good weekend.
I know I promised to blog about the "big event" at the 11am worship service. I wanted to include pictures and video, but since I was gone for a couple of days that just isn't going to happen this week - maybe next week.
So what happened? We did our first adult immersion baptisms! Three people who have recently given their lives to Jesus went under, died to their old selves, and were brought up brand new! They were so excited. When I asked who wanted to go first, Angela practically dove into the pool.
I have to tell you, my heart was racing so fast. Sunday was one of those moments that just defines why I do what I do. The look on each one of those people's faces as they came up out of the water was perfect.
I'm telling you, if you are part of Charter Oak Church this should absolutely set your hair on fire for Jesus. There is nothing more important that we can be doing than helping people find their way back to God through a relationship with Jesus. There are 31,000 people with a five mile radius of Charter Oak Church that do not attend church any where!!! God loves these people. God wants to spend eternity with these people. I believe God is asking the people of Charter Oak Church to step up and love God and love these people so much that we can't help but build relationships with them so we can show them who Jesus truly is.
I love my job!
I know I promised to blog about the "big event" at the 11am worship service. I wanted to include pictures and video, but since I was gone for a couple of days that just isn't going to happen this week - maybe next week.
So what happened? We did our first adult immersion baptisms! Three people who have recently given their lives to Jesus went under, died to their old selves, and were brought up brand new! They were so excited. When I asked who wanted to go first, Angela practically dove into the pool.
I have to tell you, my heart was racing so fast. Sunday was one of those moments that just defines why I do what I do. The look on each one of those people's faces as they came up out of the water was perfect.
I'm telling you, if you are part of Charter Oak Church this should absolutely set your hair on fire for Jesus. There is nothing more important that we can be doing than helping people find their way back to God through a relationship with Jesus. There are 31,000 people with a five mile radius of Charter Oak Church that do not attend church any where!!! God loves these people. God wants to spend eternity with these people. I believe God is asking the people of Charter Oak Church to step up and love God and love these people so much that we can't help but build relationships with them so we can show them who Jesus truly is.
I love my job!
It's All about Leadership
Pastor Dave and I spent all day Tuesday with two members of the Senior Management Team at Granger Community Church. We could pretty much ask them anything and they did their best to answer all of our questions. I very quickly realized that the reason that GCC is growing and making such a huge difference for Jesus is because of the leadership of the people on their Senior Management Team. These guys are the real deal.
GCC is much, much larger than Charter Oak Church so we are not going to be doing the same things that they are doing. That wasn't the point of our time together. I really wanted to take away the "why" behind what they are doing. What it comes down to is strong, godly leadership. They are more interested in doing the right thing, at the right time, for the right reason than anything else. They think strategically. They have very, very high expectations of every person on their staff and in their congregation that is a member.
I took a couple of hours yesterday and typed up the notes that I took and I also took the time to reflect on some of the bigger ideas that they shared about why they do things. When I finished I had nine pages of notes that I know I will read and re-read many times. The principles and leadership elements that I learned from Tim and Mark will help shape me for a very long time.
I give thanks to God for people who he has raised up as great leaders who are willing to take time and pour into me so that I can pour into others for the building of the Kingdom of God.
GCC is much, much larger than Charter Oak Church so we are not going to be doing the same things that they are doing. That wasn't the point of our time together. I really wanted to take away the "why" behind what they are doing. What it comes down to is strong, godly leadership. They are more interested in doing the right thing, at the right time, for the right reason than anything else. They think strategically. They have very, very high expectations of every person on their staff and in their congregation that is a member.
I took a couple of hours yesterday and typed up the notes that I took and I also took the time to reflect on some of the bigger ideas that they shared about why they do things. When I finished I had nine pages of notes that I know I will read and re-read many times. The principles and leadership elements that I learned from Tim and Mark will help shape me for a very long time.
I give thanks to God for people who he has raised up as great leaders who are willing to take time and pour into me so that I can pour into others for the building of the Kingdom of God.
Attitude Toward Worship
Devotions for May 31, 2007
Proverbs 31
1 Corinthians 11
I Stand Amazed by Chris Tomlin
Scripture
"If anyone wants to be contentious about this, we have no other practice—nor do the churches of God." (1 Corinthians 11:16)
Observation
Paul begins a section on public worship. It seems that the real point of Paul's teaching here is about attitude in worship. He writes about covering your head if you are a woman and not covering it if you are a man. He writes about the authority of God. He writes about what he hears is happening when the Corinthians sit down at the Lord's Table.
The Corinthians are more interested in doing whatever they want to do in worship. They don't consider anyone else. Because of this attitude in worship it is causing some to not be able to worship and others not to even follow Jesus. In essence Paul is teaching that it is not about you. It's about making sure that everyone who wants to worship God can do so.
Application
I wonder how many times people in the church create barriers for others to worship God? When do we put our own created expectations into our worship that just keeps others out? We do it when we use language that is only familiar to us. We do it when we use music that is outdated and has nothing to do with authenticity. We do it when we make it about us.
The Church is the one organization that was created for those outside its membership, but we bring an attitude in worship that it is all about me. At Charter Oak Church we seek to create an openness to the moving of the Holy Spirit as we turn our full attention to God in all we do and say. Yes, we all bring our expectations, but I hope that we ultimately bring an attitude to worship the King of kings and the Lord of lords and nothing else and no one else. He is on the throne and we are not.
Prayer
Almighty God, forgive us when we choose to make worship about us. Forgive us when we put our expectations and wants above you. It's all about you God. We worship you for who you are.
I pray that we will authentically worship you all of the time, not just on weekends. Give us hearts that hunger and thirst after an intimate relationship with you through Jesus. God, I love you. I praise you. I glorify your holy name. In Jesus Christ's name I pray. Amen.
Proverbs 31
1 Corinthians 11
I Stand Amazed by Chris Tomlin
Scripture
"If anyone wants to be contentious about this, we have no other practice—nor do the churches of God." (1 Corinthians 11:16)
Observation
Paul begins a section on public worship. It seems that the real point of Paul's teaching here is about attitude in worship. He writes about covering your head if you are a woman and not covering it if you are a man. He writes about the authority of God. He writes about what he hears is happening when the Corinthians sit down at the Lord's Table.
The Corinthians are more interested in doing whatever they want to do in worship. They don't consider anyone else. Because of this attitude in worship it is causing some to not be able to worship and others not to even follow Jesus. In essence Paul is teaching that it is not about you. It's about making sure that everyone who wants to worship God can do so.
Application
I wonder how many times people in the church create barriers for others to worship God? When do we put our own created expectations into our worship that just keeps others out? We do it when we use language that is only familiar to us. We do it when we use music that is outdated and has nothing to do with authenticity. We do it when we make it about us.
The Church is the one organization that was created for those outside its membership, but we bring an attitude in worship that it is all about me. At Charter Oak Church we seek to create an openness to the moving of the Holy Spirit as we turn our full attention to God in all we do and say. Yes, we all bring our expectations, but I hope that we ultimately bring an attitude to worship the King of kings and the Lord of lords and nothing else and no one else. He is on the throne and we are not.
Prayer
Almighty God, forgive us when we choose to make worship about us. Forgive us when we put our expectations and wants above you. It's all about you God. We worship you for who you are.
I pray that we will authentically worship you all of the time, not just on weekends. Give us hearts that hunger and thirst after an intimate relationship with you through Jesus. God, I love you. I praise you. I glorify your holy name. In Jesus Christ's name I pray. Amen.
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