Yesterday's sermon kicked off the 4th quarter of our series on Discipleship. In order to get to where we need to be in our work for the Kingdom is is important to look at God’s Answers For Man’s Excuses. In the book of Exodus chapters 3 and 4 we find Moses sparing with God about his assignment to go to Pharoah and demand that God's people be set free. Moses used 4 excuses:
THE EXCUSE OF INABILITY
God's response was that we are able because He is with us.
THE EXCUSE OF INADEQUACY
God’s response to Moses is to remind him that He is the "I AM!"
"Ephesians 3:20 Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think."
THE EXCUSE OF INFERIORITY
God’s response to Moses is to let him know that when the Lord gets through
working in and through him, there will be no doubt in the minds of others as
to the truth of Moses' story.
THE EXCUSE OF INFIRMITY
God’s response to Moses is that He made man’s mouth and He made man’s mind,
Luke 12:11-12 And when you are brought to trial in the synagogues and before rulers and authorities, don't worry about how to defend yourself or what to say, 12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what needs to be said."
It is time to move out from the shelter of our excuses and get to work for God. A quote from Former Assemblies of God General Superintendent Thomas Trask:
"If we remain people of the Spirit, we will remain on the cutting edge of ministry opportunity"
Showing posts with label Discipleship. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Discipleship. Show all posts
Monday, October 6, 2008
Friday, May 2, 2008
The Cycle of Constant Components
I have just completed reading a book entitled, “The Local Church in Evangelism” written by Randy Hurst. It is a textbook for a class I am taking about reaching outside of the walls of our churches and really making an impact on the community. Inside the book, I found a section of analysis of the great commission. It does a good job of discussing the difference ( if there is one ) between evangelism and discipleship. Our mission includes both and treating them separately is an artificial distinction. The mission of reaching the lost includes proclaiming the gospel, leading people to a decision to follow Christ, and discipling them to become evangelists-messengers to the spiritually lost people in the world. Here is the cycle:
“Evangelism should always be undertaken with the objective of discipleship, and discipleship should always prepare believers for evangelism.”
They are “Constant Components”
I will be spending the weekend finishing this class and I expect to gain some new insights on effectively sharing the gospel.
I challenge my blog readers to all strive to learn one new thing today.
“Evangelism should always be undertaken with the objective of discipleship, and discipleship should always prepare believers for evangelism.”
They are “Constant Components”
I will be spending the weekend finishing this class and I expect to gain some new insights on effectively sharing the gospel.
I challenge my blog readers to all strive to learn one new thing today.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Follow up
It was a full house at the gymnasium last night for the “Seven Project” with several hundred young people responding and making commitments to Jesus Christ. Now the follow up begins to reach those that may fall through the cracks if our discipleship programs are not sound. Too many times events like this come and go with no lasting change because the ball gets dropped and the hype of the moment dies down. I am thankful that when I made my serious commitment to Christ nearly 40 years ago that there were people who invested in my spiritual well being. It was a life-changing event that is still getting better every day. Today is a day for these who responded to the Gospel last night to set down some roots. Mark the day by driving a stake in the ground to look back at. The discipleship basic that are still a part of my everyday life include:
Spending time reading the Word of God ( Bible )
Spending time in Prayer ( Communication )
Spending time with others ( Fellowship )
Spending time learning ( Networking )
Our task is cut out for us.
Spending time reading the Word of God ( Bible )
Spending time in Prayer ( Communication )
Spending time with others ( Fellowship )
Spending time learning ( Networking )
Our task is cut out for us.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Jesus Wept
As our chuirch family struugles through the grief process this week following the tragic death of one of our key members, we have been comforted by the fact that weeping is a gift that allows us to display emotions. I have decided to place some of yesterday's sermon notes in the blog this morning. If you are going through a difficult time today, this may help you with your focus.
John 11:35-44
35Jesus wept. 36 And so the Jews were saying, "Behold how He loved him!" 37 But some of them said, "Could not this man, who opened the eyes of him who was blind, have kept this man also from dying?" 38 Jesus therefore again being deeply moved within, came to the tomb. Now it was a cave, and a stone was lying against it. 39 Jesus said, "Remove the stone." Martha, the sister of the deceased, said to Him, "Lord, by this time there will be a stench, for he has been dead four days." 40 Jesus said to her, "Did I not say to you, if you believe, you will see the glory of God?" 41 And so they removed the stone. And Jesus raised His eyes, and said, "Father, I thank Thee that Thou heardest Me. 42 "And I knew that Thou hearest Me always; but because of the people standing around I said it, that they may believe that Thou didst send Me." 43 And when He had said these things, He cried out with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come forth." 44 He who had died came forth, bound hand and foot with wrappings; and his face was wrapped around with a cloth. Jesus said to them, "Unbind him, and let him go."
Reasons that Jesus Wept:
Compassion
Because His friend had died
Because of the lack of faith of His people
Because He is bringing His friend back into this world from Heaven
Other reasons we weep:
Because the task is so great
Galatians 6:2-5 2 Bear one another's burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ. 3 For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. 4 But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have reason for boasting in regard to himself alone, and not in regard to another. 5 For each one shall bear his own load.
Because the answer is so wonderful
The supply is in place
Philippians 4:19
The Lord has done it
Because the Lord is with us
Psalms 124: 1-8
Psalm 124:1-8 A Song of Ascents, of David. "Had it not been the LORD who was on our side," Let Israel now say, 2 "Had it not been the LORD who was on our side, When men rose up against us; 3 Then they would have swallowed us alive, When their anger was kindled against us; 4 Then the waters would have engulfed us, The stream would have swept over our soul; 5 Then the raging waters would have swept over our soul." 6 Blessed be the LORD, Who has not given us to be torn by their teeth. 7 Our soul has escaped as a bird out of the snare of the trapper; The snare is broken and we have escaped. 8 Our help is in the name of the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.
Reasons that Jesus Wept:
Compassion
Because His friend had died
Because of the lack of faith of His people
Because He is bringing His friend back into this world from Heaven
Other reasons we weep:
Because the task is so great
Galatians 6:2-5 2 Bear one another's burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ. 3 For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. 4 But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have reason for boasting in regard to himself alone, and not in regard to another. 5 For each one shall bear his own load.
Because the answer is so wonderful
The supply is in place
Philippians 4:19
The Lord has done it
Because the Lord is with us
Psalms 124: 1-8
Psalm 124:1-8 A Song of Ascents, of David. "Had it not been the LORD who was on our side," Let Israel now say, 2 "Had it not been the LORD who was on our side, When men rose up against us; 3 Then they would have swallowed us alive, When their anger was kindled against us; 4 Then the waters would have engulfed us, The stream would have swept over our soul; 5 Then the raging waters would have swept over our soul." 6 Blessed be the LORD, Who has not given us to be torn by their teeth. 7 Our soul has escaped as a bird out of the snare of the trapper; The snare is broken and we have escaped. 8 Our help is in the name of the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
The marketplace
A very late night last night as our district meetings concluded and I am back in the saddle again opening 3 days of mail and returning 3 days of messages. I feel refreshed in my spirit and on overload in my data bank of new ministry ideas and responsibilities. Here are 3 key points from last night's service where many new ministers were licensed and ordained:
How do we possess tomorrow?
1. We need an eternal perspective
2. We need to be willing to learn and grow
3. We need to listen to God and not men
We are able to do what God has called us to do because He enables us.
Today it's off the the marketplace to see it in action.
How do we possess tomorrow?
1. We need an eternal perspective
2. We need to be willing to learn and grow
3. We need to listen to God and not men
We are able to do what God has called us to do because He enables us.
Today it's off the the marketplace to see it in action.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Path Blazing
“I will lead them in paths they have not known. I will make darkness light before them, and crooked places straight. These things I will do for them and not forsake them.” (Isa 42:16)
My favorite quote of this morning’s reading is from John Maxwell: “Anyone can follow a path, but only a leader can blaze one.” There are many people depending on you today. You may feel like telling them to find their own paths but they have no path except yours. Some may even try to jump out ahead, thinking they know the path you are to take, only to find that their vision gets blurred and they veer. Some may take a different fork in the road than you, and had you not lead them to that place, they would have never had the boldness to get to that fork. I love to hug and pray for people at that intersection and watch them as they go to heights and vantage points that I could not have taken them. Who’s footsteps are you following in today? Upon who’s shoulders are you standing and who is standing on yours?
“My sheep recognize my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”
John 10:27
The words of this folk song from the hill tribes of India are awesome:
I have decided, to follow Jesus,I have decided, to follow Jesus,I have decided, to follow Jesus,No turning back, no turning back.
Though I may wonder, I still will follow,Though I may wonder, I still will follow,Though I may wonder, I still will follow,No turning back, no turning back.
Though none go with me, still I will follow,Though none go with me, still I will follow,Though none go with me, still I will follow,No turning back, no turning back!
The world behind me, the cross before me,The world behind me, the cross before me,The world behind me, the cross before me,No turning back, no turning back!
Will you decide now, to follow Jesus,Will you decide now, to follow Jesus,,Will you decide now, to follow Jesus,,No turning back, no turning back!
My favorite quote of this morning’s reading is from John Maxwell: “Anyone can follow a path, but only a leader can blaze one.” There are many people depending on you today. You may feel like telling them to find their own paths but they have no path except yours. Some may even try to jump out ahead, thinking they know the path you are to take, only to find that their vision gets blurred and they veer. Some may take a different fork in the road than you, and had you not lead them to that place, they would have never had the boldness to get to that fork. I love to hug and pray for people at that intersection and watch them as they go to heights and vantage points that I could not have taken them. Who’s footsteps are you following in today? Upon who’s shoulders are you standing and who is standing on yours?
“My sheep recognize my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”
John 10:27
The words of this folk song from the hill tribes of India are awesome:
I have decided, to follow Jesus,I have decided, to follow Jesus,I have decided, to follow Jesus,No turning back, no turning back.
Though I may wonder, I still will follow,Though I may wonder, I still will follow,Though I may wonder, I still will follow,No turning back, no turning back.
Though none go with me, still I will follow,Though none go with me, still I will follow,Though none go with me, still I will follow,No turning back, no turning back!
The world behind me, the cross before me,The world behind me, the cross before me,The world behind me, the cross before me,No turning back, no turning back!
Will you decide now, to follow Jesus,Will you decide now, to follow Jesus,,Will you decide now, to follow Jesus,,No turning back, no turning back!
Monday, April 7, 2008
The Cause
In my sermon series on Discipleship I have come to a section about the "Cause of Christ". We need a cause in life to energize us to keep motivated. What better cause to pour our lives into than the Cause of Christ. As I read Paul's letter to the Romans, I find that he had a motivation to take this message everywhere.
I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish. Thus, for my part, I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome. For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
-Romans 1:14-16
It is good to feel obligation, eargerness and readiness at the same time.
Here are a couple points from yesterday's sermon:
There is a passion is Paul’s letter for the cause of Christ.
Relationship is at the heart of discipleship. It doesn’t make sense to own a beautiful house if those who live there are meaningless and non-productive.
The Church was created by Jesus Christ to build people worthy of God’s glory, not just buildings worthy of people’s admiration.
The Church does not exist to make a name for itself , but to exalt the name of Jesus and make Him attractive to the lost and dying.
If we do not see the church the way God sees it, we will fail to use it properly in the context of eternity.
If people do not understand what the church is, they will misunderstand its purpose.
Charles Crabtree in His book “Tranformational Discipleship" says that the church is a glorious creation of God’s love and grace and makes living a joy. I want to do church properly.
There was a time that God had a temple for His people.
Now He has people as His temple.
I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish. Thus, for my part, I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome. For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
-Romans 1:14-16
It is good to feel obligation, eargerness and readiness at the same time.
Here are a couple points from yesterday's sermon:
There is a passion is Paul’s letter for the cause of Christ.
Relationship is at the heart of discipleship. It doesn’t make sense to own a beautiful house if those who live there are meaningless and non-productive.
The Church was created by Jesus Christ to build people worthy of God’s glory, not just buildings worthy of people’s admiration.
The Church does not exist to make a name for itself , but to exalt the name of Jesus and make Him attractive to the lost and dying.
If we do not see the church the way God sees it, we will fail to use it properly in the context of eternity.
If people do not understand what the church is, they will misunderstand its purpose.
Charles Crabtree in His book “Tranformational Discipleship" says that the church is a glorious creation of God’s love and grace and makes living a joy. I want to do church properly.
There was a time that God had a temple for His people.
Now He has people as His temple.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
People of Presence
I am spending a year learning about and emphasising discipleship. Going beyond the first steps of walking in faith to experience the deeper water of God’s presence. People of “Presence” have a special heritage. As we draw near to God, through His Word, prayer, or service, His presence infuses every area of this Discipleship trek. Inspiration happens in outreach, anointing of ministry, authentic community, deepening formation, heightening worship and supernatural power. Intimacy with God is possible when we do the drawing of ourselves toward Him. The Holy Spirit helps us today by prioritizing our urgencies. Much like warning signs on the road such as “Bridge out” or “Do not enter”, The Holy Spirit protects us. He also uses the gentle whispers that come more like directional helps, such as “ Rest area ahead”, or “Last exit before tollway”. He may deepen your experience with a “Scenic Overlook” sign. Either way, we are enriched by listening to Holy Spirit direction. Jesus anticipated the loneliness of His people and sent the Holy Spirit to help.
“And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another to be with you forever-the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you know Him, for He lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”
John 14: 16-18
God has not left you alone today.
“And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another to be with you forever-the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you know Him, for He lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”
John 14: 16-18
God has not left you alone today.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Whom do you represent?
From the Merriam-Webster Dictionary I found the following definition for “Ambassador”:
“1: an official envoy; especially : a diplomatic agent of the highest rank accredited to a foreign government or sovereign as the resident representative of his or her own government or sovereign or appointed for a special and often temporary diplomatic assignment
2 a: an authorized representative or messenger b: an unofficial representative.”
Last night at our Monday night Men’s Bible Study group we were studying in the Book of Acts where Paul was called an ambassador to the Gentiles. The title carries with it special authority and rank. We are to be Ambassadors of God to the world. It is an appointed position that includes a message for us to convey and diplomatic duties to accomplish. That gives high responsibility today, since as God’s representative, I affect how people understand spiritual things. I need to be loyal to the one who sends me. Remaining faithful to the terms of my commission is one of my major life goals. I find the terms of my commission in the pages of Scripture.
We are all ambassadors of something. Whom do you represent?
“1: an official envoy; especially : a diplomatic agent of the highest rank accredited to a foreign government or sovereign as the resident representative of his or her own government or sovereign or appointed for a special and often temporary diplomatic assignment
2 a: an authorized representative or messenger b: an unofficial representative.”
Last night at our Monday night Men’s Bible Study group we were studying in the Book of Acts where Paul was called an ambassador to the Gentiles. The title carries with it special authority and rank. We are to be Ambassadors of God to the world. It is an appointed position that includes a message for us to convey and diplomatic duties to accomplish. That gives high responsibility today, since as God’s representative, I affect how people understand spiritual things. I need to be loyal to the one who sends me. Remaining faithful to the terms of my commission is one of my major life goals. I find the terms of my commission in the pages of Scripture.
We are all ambassadors of something. Whom do you represent?
Monday, March 17, 2008
The "Hope Diamond" of the Bible
Yesterday was Palm Sunday. It happens that this year is one of the earliest dates that Holy week can occur. Since Palm Sunday was March 16th, I preached a sermon yesterday on John 3:16. In keeping with the "Discipleship" theme for 2008 sermons. I entitled the sermon
" Discipleship Stated".
" For God so Loved the World that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16
Max Lucado says that John 3:16 is the "Hope Diamond" of the Bible.
"If you know nothing of the Bible, start here (John 3:16). If you know everything in the Bible, return here."
You can start here or end here and find it is one of the great gems in Scripture. Below is the list of things that we need for John 3:16 principles to be applied correctly:
10 things we need to make the John 3:16 principles effective:
Knowledge of the Word of God
A Prayer life that is consistent
A willingness to take risks
Trying new things is exciting.
Creativity is part of our God image design
Leaders at the helm
Gifts and skills to lead others into and through a deep relationship w/ Christ.
It is dangerous to be following someone without leadership gifts.
A heart to serve
A designed ministry structure that allows you to use your
Gifts
Knowledge
Energy
Resources
An understanding of and preparation for the spiritual battle against the forces of darkness
A desire to employ the concept of modeling.
A commitment to forward vision
A willingness to pay the price
When you come to a crossroad:
A personal decision is required
The decision will cost you something
Others will likely be influenced by it.
A conviction to never quit
There was once a sign on the wall of a small business:
The 57 rules of success:
#1 Deliver the goods
#2 The other 56 don’t matter
Matthew 6:21 “Where your treasure is there will your heart be also”
" Discipleship Stated".
" For God so Loved the World that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16
Max Lucado says that John 3:16 is the "Hope Diamond" of the Bible.
"If you know nothing of the Bible, start here (John 3:16). If you know everything in the Bible, return here."
You can start here or end here and find it is one of the great gems in Scripture. Below is the list of things that we need for John 3:16 principles to be applied correctly:
10 things we need to make the John 3:16 principles effective:
Knowledge of the Word of God
A Prayer life that is consistent
A willingness to take risks
Trying new things is exciting.
Creativity is part of our God image design
Leaders at the helm
Gifts and skills to lead others into and through a deep relationship w/ Christ.
It is dangerous to be following someone without leadership gifts.
A heart to serve
A designed ministry structure that allows you to use your
Gifts
Knowledge
Energy
Resources
An understanding of and preparation for the spiritual battle against the forces of darkness
A desire to employ the concept of modeling.
A commitment to forward vision
A willingness to pay the price
When you come to a crossroad:
A personal decision is required
The decision will cost you something
Others will likely be influenced by it.
A conviction to never quit
There was once a sign on the wall of a small business:
The 57 rules of success:
#1 Deliver the goods
#2 The other 56 don’t matter
Matthew 6:21 “Where your treasure is there will your heart be also”
Friday, February 29, 2008
From the inside out
Part of my Friday morning discipline is to read something with that will help me go to the next level in self-discipline. I spend much time teaching others how to be disciplined in life and I find that some time needs to be spent keeping myself tuned up. That can be spiritual, physical, social or emotional.
The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 9:27: “I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others, I myself might be disqualified.”
An article I read this morning , “Leading from the inside out” by Pastor Eric Rust, gave several steps to safeguarding character.
1. Take time for consistent reflection and restoration of body and soul.
2. When faced with an ethical choice or a temptation, consider the example you set for others.
3. Make yourself accountable to a small group of trusted friends.
4. Focus on integrity, not image.
5. Grow deep in your faith.
6. Deal firmly and uncompromisingly with character flaws and hidden sin.
An Andy Stanley question:
“What small thing in my life right now has the potential to grow into a big thing?”
The best time to remove poor character is when it is a small thing.
The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 9:27: “I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others, I myself might be disqualified.”
An article I read this morning , “Leading from the inside out” by Pastor Eric Rust, gave several steps to safeguarding character.
1. Take time for consistent reflection and restoration of body and soul.
2. When faced with an ethical choice or a temptation, consider the example you set for others.
3. Make yourself accountable to a small group of trusted friends.
4. Focus on integrity, not image.
5. Grow deep in your faith.
6. Deal firmly and uncompromisingly with character flaws and hidden sin.
An Andy Stanley question:
“What small thing in my life right now has the potential to grow into a big thing?”
The best time to remove poor character is when it is a small thing.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Mission Intersections
I have done some thinking about intersections:
The corner of Passion and Purpose
The corner of Desires/Skills and needs of the world.
Time spent pondering those addresses will give clarity to your mission in life. At the heart of that mission for all of us is service.Taking the resources we have been given and using them somehow for the benefit of others. I read the following quotes this past weekend and used them in my Sermon yesterday.
“God’s written word and the guidance of His Spirit always leads you always to effective service.”
“The church is a place of rehabilitation, not convalescence. It is not a hospice that prepares people to die, it’s a rehab center preparing people to live”
Dr. George Wood said this week that we assume that if we do not do God’s will, there will be someone waiting in line to take our place.
Not so. If you do not do what God is asking you to do, it won’t get done. What is your mission in life? Preparing the way for others is a key part of your mission. A road worker making a good highway for the King to travel on. It only makes sense if the King is coming.
We are never more like Jesus than when we are serving others.
The corner of Passion and Purpose
The corner of Desires/Skills and needs of the world.
Time spent pondering those addresses will give clarity to your mission in life. At the heart of that mission for all of us is service.Taking the resources we have been given and using them somehow for the benefit of others. I read the following quotes this past weekend and used them in my Sermon yesterday.
“God’s written word and the guidance of His Spirit always leads you always to effective service.”
“The church is a place of rehabilitation, not convalescence. It is not a hospice that prepares people to die, it’s a rehab center preparing people to live”
Dr. George Wood said this week that we assume that if we do not do God’s will, there will be someone waiting in line to take our place.
Not so. If you do not do what God is asking you to do, it won’t get done. What is your mission in life? Preparing the way for others is a key part of your mission. A road worker making a good highway for the King to travel on. It only makes sense if the King is coming.
We are never more like Jesus than when we are serving others.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Rebooting required
My study of discipleship so far this year has taught me that it is something that happens more in the marketplace than in the church. When I add a new program to my computer library, the most important step is to apply the program. It may require me to restart the computer so that the program can be read by the operating system. Otherwise it is just like an unread book on the shelf of the library which is only ornamental. I have many books on the shelf of my life that are waiting to be read and applied. Some that I have read before need to be re scanned to allow the information to fit into the new model of me. I have learned that one of the key areas of priority in my growth and discipleship is “ATTITUDE”.
Some thoughts about attitude this morning from John Maxwell’s writings:
It is the “Advance man” of our true selves
Its roots are inward but its fruit is outward
It is our best friend or our worst enemy
It is more honest and more consistent than our words
It is an out ward look based on past experiences
It is a thing that draws people to us or repels them
It is never content until it is expressed
It is the librarian of our past
It is the speaker of our present
It is the prophet of our future
One of my favorite slogans is: "Get the tide up and all the boats will rise."
This is a good day to go up a notch in our thinking. We all have different roles in our lives. There is God’s role and there is our role. When I try to do the God part, I end up unsuccessful because only He can do that. My part though is to pray and trust. The better I do that, the more opportunity I give God to do His. Today will be about making room for God to operate by keeping my attitude right.
Some thoughts about attitude this morning from John Maxwell’s writings:
It is the “Advance man” of our true selves
Its roots are inward but its fruit is outward
It is our best friend or our worst enemy
It is more honest and more consistent than our words
It is an out ward look based on past experiences
It is a thing that draws people to us or repels them
It is never content until it is expressed
It is the librarian of our past
It is the speaker of our present
It is the prophet of our future
One of my favorite slogans is: "Get the tide up and all the boats will rise."
This is a good day to go up a notch in our thinking. We all have different roles in our lives. There is God’s role and there is our role. When I try to do the God part, I end up unsuccessful because only He can do that. My part though is to pray and trust. The better I do that, the more opportunity I give God to do His. Today will be about making room for God to operate by keeping my attitude right.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Intensity
I had several people wanting the notes from yesterday's sermon so I am placing them here on the blog today. The subject of intensity is easy to preach about because God is intense in everything He does. The following scripture is one of the great examples of intensity from the Old Testament. Sorry the blog is a bit long this morning but Hey, it's the whole sermon.
Discipleship Intensity
Feb. 17, 2008
Pastor Al Hazelton
Harlan First Assembly of God
Following God with intensity
2 Kings 4:8-37
8 One day Elisha went to the town of Shunem. A wealthy woman lived there, and she invited him to eat some food. From then on, whenever he passed that way, he would stop there to eat.
9 She said to her husband, "I am sure this man who stops in from time to time is a holy man of God.
10 Let's make a little room for him on the roof and furnish it with a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp. Then he will have a place to stay whenever he comes by."
11 One day Elisha returned to Shunem, and he went up to his room to rest.
12 He said to his servant Gehazi, "Tell the woman I want to speak to her." When she arrived,
13 Elisha said to Gehazi, "Tell her that we appreciate the kind concern she has shown us. Now ask her what we can do for her. Does she want me to put in a good word for her to the king or to the commander of the army?""No," she replied, "my family takes good care of me."
14 Later Elisha asked Gehazi, "What do you think we can do for her?"He suggested, "She doesn't have a son, and her husband is an old man."
15 "Call her back again," Elisha told him. When the woman returned, Elisha said to her as she stood in the doorway,
16 "Next year at about this time you will be holding a son in your arms!""No, my lord!" she protested. "Please don't lie to me like that, O man of God."
17 But sure enough, the woman soon became pregnant. And at that time the following year she had a son, just as Elisha had said.
18 One day when her child was older, he went out to visit his father, who was working with the harvesters.
19 Suddenly he complained, "My head hurts! My head hurts!"His father said to one of the servants, "Carry him home to his mother."
20 So the servant took him home, and his mother held him on her lap. But around noontime he died.
21 She carried him up to the bed of the man of God, then shut the door and left him there.
22 She sent a message to her husband: "Send one of the servants and a donkey so that I can hurry to the man of God and come right back."
23 "Why today?" he asked. "It is neither a new moon festival nor a Sabbath."But she said, "It's all right."
24 So she saddled the donkey and said to the servant, "Hurry! Don't slow down on my account unless I tell you to."
25 As she approached the man of God at Mount Carmel, Elisha saw her in the distance. He said to Gehazi, "Look, the woman from Shunem is coming.
26 Run out to meet her and ask her, 'Is everything all right with you, with your husband, and with your child?' ""Yes," the woman told Gehazi, "everything is fine."
27 But when she came to the man of God at the mountain, she fell to the ground before him and caught hold of his feet. Gehazi began to push her away, but the man of God said, "Leave her alone. Something is troubling her deeply, and the LORD has not told me what it is."
28 Then she said, "It was you, my lord, who said I would have a son. And didn't I tell you not to raise my hopes?"
29 Then Elisha said to Gehazi, "Get ready to travel; take my staff and go! Don't talk to anyone along the way. Go quickly and lay the staff on the child's face."
30 But the boy's mother said, "As surely as the LORD lives and you yourself live, I won't go home unless you go with me." So Elisha returned with her.
31 Gehazi hurried on ahead and laid the staff on the child's face, but nothing happened. There was no sign of life. He returned to meet Elisha and told him, "The child is still dead."
32 When Elisha arrived, the child was indeed dead, lying there on the prophet's bed.
33 He went in alone and shut the door behind him and prayed to the LORD.
34 Then he lay down on the child's body, placing his mouth on the child's mouth, his eyes on the child's eyes, and his hands on the child's hands. And the child's body began to grow warm again!
35 Elisha got up and walked back and forth in the room a few times. Then he stretched himself out again on the child. This time the boy sneezed seven times and opened his eyes!
36 Then Elisha summoned Gehazi. "Call the child's mother!" he said. And when she came in, Elisha said, "Here, take your son!"
37 She fell at his feet, overwhelmed with gratitude. Then she picked up her son and carried him downstairs.
Experiencing God in uncommon ways will find you following God in amazing ways
There are people here who never would have thought that they would be sitting in a church this morning.
Some in leadership this morning would have never thought this possible a few years ago.
There are people here this morning who thought that God hated them and now they have found that God loves them
There are people who didn’t know they could go to heaven when they die. And now they know.
We have in this room this morning: Engineers, teachers, professionals of all sorts, truck drivers, geeks, nurses, medical technologists, dancers, contractors, musicians, students, and everything in between.
We are here needing intensity in our walk with God.
Elisha had:
Godliness
He had been mentored by a great man of faith
Who is mentoring you?
Sensitivity
He knew when God was talking to him
Close regular contact with God pays off
Get along side those who walk with God.
Enoch types
John Eldridge in his book “Waking the Dead”
“When we set out to hear God’s voice, we do not listen as though it will come from somewhere above us or in the room around us. It comes to us from within, in the heart, the dwelling place of God.
Augustine said:
“Who can map out the various forces at play in one soul? Man is a great depth, O Lord….but the hairs of his head are easier by far to count than…the movement of his heart.”
Boldness
Unorthodox procedure
Wigglesworth example
What am I afraid of?
We would do well to trust God’s perspective
Discipleship Intensity
Feb. 17, 2008
Pastor Al Hazelton
Harlan First Assembly of God
Following God with intensity
2 Kings 4:8-37
8 One day Elisha went to the town of Shunem. A wealthy woman lived there, and she invited him to eat some food. From then on, whenever he passed that way, he would stop there to eat.
9 She said to her husband, "I am sure this man who stops in from time to time is a holy man of God.
10 Let's make a little room for him on the roof and furnish it with a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp. Then he will have a place to stay whenever he comes by."
11 One day Elisha returned to Shunem, and he went up to his room to rest.
12 He said to his servant Gehazi, "Tell the woman I want to speak to her." When she arrived,
13 Elisha said to Gehazi, "Tell her that we appreciate the kind concern she has shown us. Now ask her what we can do for her. Does she want me to put in a good word for her to the king or to the commander of the army?""No," she replied, "my family takes good care of me."
14 Later Elisha asked Gehazi, "What do you think we can do for her?"He suggested, "She doesn't have a son, and her husband is an old man."
15 "Call her back again," Elisha told him. When the woman returned, Elisha said to her as she stood in the doorway,
16 "Next year at about this time you will be holding a son in your arms!""No, my lord!" she protested. "Please don't lie to me like that, O man of God."
17 But sure enough, the woman soon became pregnant. And at that time the following year she had a son, just as Elisha had said.
18 One day when her child was older, he went out to visit his father, who was working with the harvesters.
19 Suddenly he complained, "My head hurts! My head hurts!"His father said to one of the servants, "Carry him home to his mother."
20 So the servant took him home, and his mother held him on her lap. But around noontime he died.
21 She carried him up to the bed of the man of God, then shut the door and left him there.
22 She sent a message to her husband: "Send one of the servants and a donkey so that I can hurry to the man of God and come right back."
23 "Why today?" he asked. "It is neither a new moon festival nor a Sabbath."But she said, "It's all right."
24 So she saddled the donkey and said to the servant, "Hurry! Don't slow down on my account unless I tell you to."
25 As she approached the man of God at Mount Carmel, Elisha saw her in the distance. He said to Gehazi, "Look, the woman from Shunem is coming.
26 Run out to meet her and ask her, 'Is everything all right with you, with your husband, and with your child?' ""Yes," the woman told Gehazi, "everything is fine."
27 But when she came to the man of God at the mountain, she fell to the ground before him and caught hold of his feet. Gehazi began to push her away, but the man of God said, "Leave her alone. Something is troubling her deeply, and the LORD has not told me what it is."
28 Then she said, "It was you, my lord, who said I would have a son. And didn't I tell you not to raise my hopes?"
29 Then Elisha said to Gehazi, "Get ready to travel; take my staff and go! Don't talk to anyone along the way. Go quickly and lay the staff on the child's face."
30 But the boy's mother said, "As surely as the LORD lives and you yourself live, I won't go home unless you go with me." So Elisha returned with her.
31 Gehazi hurried on ahead and laid the staff on the child's face, but nothing happened. There was no sign of life. He returned to meet Elisha and told him, "The child is still dead."
32 When Elisha arrived, the child was indeed dead, lying there on the prophet's bed.
33 He went in alone and shut the door behind him and prayed to the LORD.
34 Then he lay down on the child's body, placing his mouth on the child's mouth, his eyes on the child's eyes, and his hands on the child's hands. And the child's body began to grow warm again!
35 Elisha got up and walked back and forth in the room a few times. Then he stretched himself out again on the child. This time the boy sneezed seven times and opened his eyes!
36 Then Elisha summoned Gehazi. "Call the child's mother!" he said. And when she came in, Elisha said, "Here, take your son!"
37 She fell at his feet, overwhelmed with gratitude. Then she picked up her son and carried him downstairs.
Experiencing God in uncommon ways will find you following God in amazing ways
There are people here who never would have thought that they would be sitting in a church this morning.
Some in leadership this morning would have never thought this possible a few years ago.
There are people here this morning who thought that God hated them and now they have found that God loves them
There are people who didn’t know they could go to heaven when they die. And now they know.
We have in this room this morning: Engineers, teachers, professionals of all sorts, truck drivers, geeks, nurses, medical technologists, dancers, contractors, musicians, students, and everything in between.
We are here needing intensity in our walk with God.
Elisha had:
Godliness
He had been mentored by a great man of faith
Who is mentoring you?
Sensitivity
He knew when God was talking to him
Close regular contact with God pays off
Get along side those who walk with God.
Enoch types
John Eldridge in his book “Waking the Dead”
“When we set out to hear God’s voice, we do not listen as though it will come from somewhere above us or in the room around us. It comes to us from within, in the heart, the dwelling place of God.
Augustine said:
“Who can map out the various forces at play in one soul? Man is a great depth, O Lord….but the hairs of his head are easier by far to count than…the movement of his heart.”
Boldness
Unorthodox procedure
Wigglesworth example
What am I afraid of?
We would do well to trust God’s perspective
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Don't fumble the ball
I have been thinking more and more lately about the importance of my generation setting up the play that will hand off the ball to the next generation. As a basketball player , when I was a child, I was taught to not be a “ball hog”. The ball hogs were people who wouldn’t pass the ball but wanted it for themselves so that they could score the points. They usually felt they were better that the others on the team. One of the problems with that kind of thinking is that the day comes when for one reason or another they are out of commission and the team must play without them. One of the core beliefs in my life is that I need to constantly be training those coming up behind me to replace me. I am not planning to retire in the near future, but there are some great ball handlers in the younger generation that need to be getting experience in game situations. There are two Greek words that we have been using at church. Exousia and dunamis refer to authority and empowerment. It is frustrating in life to have authority and not exercise it. Great leaders have a handle on the things they are authorized to do and empowered to do. As believers in Jesus Christ we have been given both with the purpose of successfully carrying the good news of the gospel to the next generation. This is not a time to fumble. It is a time to make good passes and sharpen our skills during practice times. I don’t want God to “bench” me for being a ball hog.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
The Church in the Marketplace
An important part of the discipleship model is the activity of the church ( believers ) in the marketplace. As I look at the example of Jesus, I find Him doing more activity outside of the synagogue that inside. I shared in the sermon last Sunday that church really is a tag team sport. We tag each other as we go out the door. I have this heart snapshot of the church going up the hill to be ,as Pastor Jim puts it, a M.A.S.H. unit. (Mobile Authoritative Spiritual Hospital). Taking the church to the marketplace is the only way we will reach those who really need it. The unchurched and dechurched out there need the church to come to them. That requires more than just the clergy to do the ministry. Much of my call as a pastor is to “equip the saints to do the work of the ministry”
( Ephesians chapter 4). I love doing the work, but I need to remember to train and equip. The example that Jesus set is really beautiful as we see Him joining in and ministering to the needy as well as taking the time necessary to disciple those who can go out in every direction and do it too. In the last 3 days I have officiated at a funeral, prayed with a lady in the emergency room of a cardiac center, and hugged a widow at the funeral visitation of her husband. It all goes with the territory and in each case I felt honored to serve God in that position. I am blessed !
( Ephesians chapter 4). I love doing the work, but I need to remember to train and equip. The example that Jesus set is really beautiful as we see Him joining in and ministering to the needy as well as taking the time necessary to disciple those who can go out in every direction and do it too. In the last 3 days I have officiated at a funeral, prayed with a lady in the emergency room of a cardiac center, and hugged a widow at the funeral visitation of her husband. It all goes with the territory and in each case I felt honored to serve God in that position. I am blessed !
Monday, February 11, 2008
More Discipleship Principles
It is one of my goals this year as I study and go after discipleship, I want to become more intentional. It means I need to look on purpose at the commitments I have made and the covenants that God has made to those before me, but are still in effect for me. I heard a great message last week on multi-generational thinking. There are promises that have been made by God that did not change when the torch was passed to my generation and they will be intact for the next.
Rick Warren says: “The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. It is greater than your family, your career or even your wildest dreams and ambitions. If you want to know why you were placed on this planet, you must begin with God. You were born by His purpose and for His purpose.”
Be careful of always longing for the spectacular. God likes to use every day stuff.
Remember that destiny type activities may not always be spectacular. Another important connecting thought here is that we need to be able to identify destiny defining events that occur in those everyday events. Some people become "super-spiritual" and walk in the clouds trying to define the significance of everything around them. It seems to me that God has designed us to operate at ground level in the world while maintaining an awareness of God's activity. It is a balance that is worth striving for.
Rick Warren says: “The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. It is greater than your family, your career or even your wildest dreams and ambitions. If you want to know why you were placed on this planet, you must begin with God. You were born by His purpose and for His purpose.”
Be careful of always longing for the spectacular. God likes to use every day stuff.
Remember that destiny type activities may not always be spectacular. Another important connecting thought here is that we need to be able to identify destiny defining events that occur in those everyday events. Some people become "super-spiritual" and walk in the clouds trying to define the significance of everything around them. It seems to me that God has designed us to operate at ground level in the world while maintaining an awareness of God's activity. It is a balance that is worth striving for.
Monday, February 4, 2008
God in a Box
On Monday mornings lately I have been giving you highlights from the Sunday sermon. Now it is time to apply these to real life. Here are some statements to ponder:
If we only have our own perspective, we are missing a lot.
God cannot be quantified
When we put God in a box, He kicks out the sides
There is More Than we know
Foolish things of this world confounding the wise is scriptural
Despise not small beginnings
We need a new way to see things
Prayer:
God think through my mind today
Mother Teresa described her ministry strategy as going out and looking for the dying, the cripple, the lonely, the unwanted, the unloved- “Jesus in Disguise”
The Indescibable God shows up:
Moses at the Red Sea
Joshua at the helm
Jesus tellijng them that the girl was not dead but just asleep
(The church today is not dead at times we are just asleep.)
Possibilities
We serve a creative God
If you are called of God, You have His favor
We will answer for how we reached the ones God sent us to
God says, I have set before you an open door.
What are your gifts?
2 Cor. 9:15
Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! NIV
Thank God for his Son -- a gift too wonderful for words! NLT
Isa 55:8-9
8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD.
9 "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
If we only have our own perspective, we are missing a lot.
God cannot be quantified
When we put God in a box, He kicks out the sides
There is More Than we know
Foolish things of this world confounding the wise is scriptural
Despise not small beginnings
We need a new way to see things
Prayer:
God think through my mind today
Mother Teresa described her ministry strategy as going out and looking for the dying, the cripple, the lonely, the unwanted, the unloved- “Jesus in Disguise”
The Indescibable God shows up:
Moses at the Red Sea
Joshua at the helm
Jesus tellijng them that the girl was not dead but just asleep
(The church today is not dead at times we are just asleep.)
Possibilities
We serve a creative God
If you are called of God, You have His favor
We will answer for how we reached the ones God sent us to
God says, I have set before you an open door.
What are your gifts?
2 Cor. 9:15
Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! NIV
Thank God for his Son -- a gift too wonderful for words! NLT
Isa 55:8-9
8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD.
9 "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Discipleship Foundations
I started to put a segment of yesterday's sermon here for my Monday morning blog but I have decided to put the whole thing. If you need to preach a sermon you're free to use it.
Discipleship Foundations
“Go for It!”
January 27, 2008
Pastor Al Hazelton
Harlan First Assembly if God
Gary Kasparov was a Grand Master Chess champion in 1985. In his book entitled,: “How Life Imitates Chess”, he makes the statement
“A great chess player makes his moves based on what he wants the chessboard to look like 10 or 20 moves in the future.”
“Let me tell you why you are here. You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You’ve lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage. Here’s another way to put
it : You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors of the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand- Shine ! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:13-16, The Message).
It was midnight, Friday night, time for the monthly midnight communion service during the 24 hour prayer service. Around the table sat 10 visible people, 2 cell phones, set to speaker phone, one connected to Mary, a student at North Central University and the other connected to Amanda, a student at Evangel University. Roughly 800 miles separated those two yet they were at the table with us with their own communion elements beside them. Counting the baby in the womb at the table, we had 13. Just the number gathered with Jesus the night of the last supper. As we began to share scriptures, prayers and music, I was overwhelmed with emotion and remembered fresh and anew, that Jesus Christ had died for me. I wanted to tell the world and I was glad that the window shades were up so that the cars that drove by could see our table.
I am reading a great book by Rick Rusaw and Eric Swanson entitled “The externally focused Church”. In it they tell the Palm Sunday story with a lesson twist.
“Riding a donkey, Jesus entered into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. The crowds cheered and shouted praises to Him. The lopped off palm fronds and laid them on the ground for the donkey to walk on. When they ran out of palm branches, they gladly laid their own cloaks on the ground and, walking ahead of Jesus and the donkey, shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest!” (Matthew 21:9) For a moment the donkey perhaps thought it was all about him. After all, he was doing all the work that morning. But it wasn’t about him. It had nothing to do with him. He was simply carrying the message.”
We need to remember that it’s all about Jesus.
Salt
A preservative
An enhancer
Something that brings value to the world
Light
Illuminator
Attractor
Dispeller of darkness
It has been said that the most important light in a house isn’t the expensive chandelier; it’s the nightlight in the hallway. It keeps us from stubbing our toe in the middle of the night. (Dashing our foot against a stone)
Disciple making is not only one aspect of the church’s mission; it encompasses all the church does
We need to be growing in conformity to His image as the Spirit transforms us from the inside out
Romans 12
We should be nurtured within a community of disciples who are engaged in that lifelong process, and helping others to know and become like Jesus.
Knowing and becoming
The cost for Jesus was His life 1 Cor. 6:19-20 We are bought with a price
The cost for us is also our life. We need to lose our lives by taking up our own cross.
Matthew 16: 24-26
Strive for the transformed identity.
Satan is into identity theft. Get it back to the identity in Jesus.
Check out this series of verses:
John 1:12-13 “Born into a new identity”
12 But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.
13 They are reborn! This is not a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan -- this rebirth comes from God.
2 Corinthians 5:17 “ New creatures in Christ”
17 What this means is that those who become Christians become new persons. They are not the same anymore, for the old life is gone. A new life has begun!
Romans 8:29 “Conformed to the image of Christ”
29 For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn, with many brothers and sisters.
Galatians 4:19 “Christ is being formed in us”
19 But oh, my dear children! I feel as if I am going through labor pains for you again, and they will continue until Christ is fully developed in your lives.
Challenge: Transition intentionally through life dimensions and stages to become the person God intended you to be.
One of the core values of one of my mentor churches is :
“It’s never too late to become who you might have been”
Discipleship Foundations
“Go for It!”
January 27, 2008
Pastor Al Hazelton
Harlan First Assembly if God
Gary Kasparov was a Grand Master Chess champion in 1985. In his book entitled,: “How Life Imitates Chess”, he makes the statement
“A great chess player makes his moves based on what he wants the chessboard to look like 10 or 20 moves in the future.”
“Let me tell you why you are here. You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You’ve lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage. Here’s another way to put
it : You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors of the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand- Shine ! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:13-16, The Message).
It was midnight, Friday night, time for the monthly midnight communion service during the 24 hour prayer service. Around the table sat 10 visible people, 2 cell phones, set to speaker phone, one connected to Mary, a student at North Central University and the other connected to Amanda, a student at Evangel University. Roughly 800 miles separated those two yet they were at the table with us with their own communion elements beside them. Counting the baby in the womb at the table, we had 13. Just the number gathered with Jesus the night of the last supper. As we began to share scriptures, prayers and music, I was overwhelmed with emotion and remembered fresh and anew, that Jesus Christ had died for me. I wanted to tell the world and I was glad that the window shades were up so that the cars that drove by could see our table.
I am reading a great book by Rick Rusaw and Eric Swanson entitled “The externally focused Church”. In it they tell the Palm Sunday story with a lesson twist.
“Riding a donkey, Jesus entered into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. The crowds cheered and shouted praises to Him. The lopped off palm fronds and laid them on the ground for the donkey to walk on. When they ran out of palm branches, they gladly laid their own cloaks on the ground and, walking ahead of Jesus and the donkey, shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest!” (Matthew 21:9) For a moment the donkey perhaps thought it was all about him. After all, he was doing all the work that morning. But it wasn’t about him. It had nothing to do with him. He was simply carrying the message.”
We need to remember that it’s all about Jesus.
Salt
A preservative
An enhancer
Something that brings value to the world
Light
Illuminator
Attractor
Dispeller of darkness
It has been said that the most important light in a house isn’t the expensive chandelier; it’s the nightlight in the hallway. It keeps us from stubbing our toe in the middle of the night. (Dashing our foot against a stone)
Disciple making is not only one aspect of the church’s mission; it encompasses all the church does
We need to be growing in conformity to His image as the Spirit transforms us from the inside out
Romans 12
We should be nurtured within a community of disciples who are engaged in that lifelong process, and helping others to know and become like Jesus.
Knowing and becoming
The cost for Jesus was His life 1 Cor. 6:19-20 We are bought with a price
The cost for us is also our life. We need to lose our lives by taking up our own cross.
Matthew 16: 24-26
Strive for the transformed identity.
Satan is into identity theft. Get it back to the identity in Jesus.
Check out this series of verses:
John 1:12-13 “Born into a new identity”
12 But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.
13 They are reborn! This is not a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan -- this rebirth comes from God.
2 Corinthians 5:17 “ New creatures in Christ”
17 What this means is that those who become Christians become new persons. They are not the same anymore, for the old life is gone. A new life has begun!
Romans 8:29 “Conformed to the image of Christ”
29 For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn, with many brothers and sisters.
Galatians 4:19 “Christ is being formed in us”
19 But oh, my dear children! I feel as if I am going through labor pains for you again, and they will continue until Christ is fully developed in your lives.
Challenge: Transition intentionally through life dimensions and stages to become the person God intended you to be.
One of the core values of one of my mentor churches is :
“It’s never too late to become who you might have been”
Friday, January 25, 2008
Emerging Emphasis
About a year ago I heard the phrase, “The demand of emerging emphases”. It caused me to do some pondering about demands around me and which ones are being emphasized and why? Circumstances force us to emphasize things differently each day. The trick is to keep from “majoring on the minors” in life. What I have found is that when I emphasize physical demands I de-emphasize the spiritual. A look at spiritual success, tells me that de-emphasis of the spiritual cannot be an option for me. I need to find a way to allow the physical needs to be met by God while I spend my life honoring and praising Him. Matthew 6:33 has long been one of my favorite verses: “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added unto you.” It is obvious from that verse that God is making an offer to us that He will take care of the real physical needs for us with His provision when we put Him first in our lives. 2008 is a year of learning about and applying the principles of discipleship in my life. Discipleship is, too many times, the neglected mandate. I am excited about this emphasis emergence, yet I must keep the long standing priority, much like the general orders in the military that all soldiers must obey, in focus.
We have another 24 hour prayer meeting scheduled this weekend at church. Some will pray for the full 24 hours, some will spend just a few minutes as their schedule allows. Please join us at some level even if you cannot come to the church. God hears where ever you are. Even more important that what we say in prayer is what God says to us. Talk to God, but be willing to listen to God too.
We have another 24 hour prayer meeting scheduled this weekend at church. Some will pray for the full 24 hours, some will spend just a few minutes as their schedule allows. Please join us at some level even if you cannot come to the church. God hears where ever you are. Even more important that what we say in prayer is what God says to us. Talk to God, but be willing to listen to God too.
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