On the anniversary of the 911 attacks, it amazes me that with 9 years to reflect, there is so much that has not been learned. Listening to Mayor Bloombergs’s interview, he still doesn’t get it. Brian Kilmead on Fox came closest when he said, “All Islamist are not terrorist, but all terrorist seem to be Islamist.” (that may not be an exact quote, but it is close.) There are those who continue to try to escape the obvious, this was is rooted in radical religion.
There is an Islamic connection that cannot be overlooked. The terrorists that attacked America didn't just happen to be Islamic. The fact that they were Islamic had everything to do with why they attacked America. Questions that should be asked include:
• What are the beliefs and origins of Islam?
• What do the six million Muslims living in America believe?
• Islam and terrorism; why and how are they connected?
• Why do Muslims around the world, and even in America, have such a hatred for Israel, a democracy that actively supports the United States?
• Why do so many Muslims hate the United States?
• Do Christians and Muslims worship the same God?
• What is a Jihad? What does it really mean?
• Why is Islam important?
• How did Islam begin?
All you have to do is listen, to know that radical Islam has not only social, economic, and political goals, but religious goals as well. Radical Islam believes that any means are justified if it achieves its end of bringing the world under submission to Allah.
One of the first rules of warfare is to know your enemy. In World War II England’s Montgomery said that his defeat of Germany’s Rommel was because he had studied his enemy and knew what he would do next. If the United States’ leadership would study our enemy and their “sacred Scriptures” they would know that September 11, was just the beginning. The religious fanatics of Islam will not rest until Sharia law rules every land they occupy.
In addition, the Muslim nations are galvanized against Israel and Mahmoud Ahmadinejad makes no bones about wanting to annihilate Israel. As long as the United States supports Israel (and the Bible says that God will bless those who do and curse those who don’t) the radicals of this religion will target us.
September 11, 2001; this was the worst terrorist attack on America in the history of our nation. More people died on September 11th in the attack on the Pentagon and the attack on the World Trade Center than died at Pearl Harbor. Almost as many died on that day as died in the American Revolution of Independence. It was a very significant day that has forever changed our country.
Larry King on the Tuesday evening just after the attack, said to one of the rescue workers, “I guess you had to resort to prayer.” I wanted to say, “Larry, Larry, Larry--Prayer is not the last resort, it is the first choice.
--jkp3
“Sometimes something useless happens on earth. Bad things happen to good people, and good things happen to bad people.” Ecclesiastes 8:14 (NCV)
Tommy
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Friday, September 10, 2010
HELL--Yes
Hell is a subject rarely discussed, but when it is it is either hotly debated or lightly dismissed. All kinds of arguments are given against it, both by laymen and theologians alike, as if denying the concept of hell, therefore destroys the reality of hell.
The world scoffs at the idea of hell. Men of God who dare to preach the truth of the Bible concerning this terrible place, are sarcastically labeled "hell fire and damnation preachers." Even many church members squirm in their seats and get a little embarrassed when the pastor preaches on hell.
Sometimes people say, "I think all the hell you are going to get is in this world." That is only partially true. If you are saved, the only hell you will ever know is in this world. But when you die you are going to go to heaven and be with Jesus forever and ever. No more sorrow. No more heartache. No more grief. No more pain. All the hell saved people ever experience is what they experience on this earth. But if you do not know Christ as your Savior and you die in that lost condition, whatever misery you have experienced on the earth will be just the beginning and then in hell forever and forever. No rest day or night.
Someone dies and they say he's out of his misery. Is he? Is he really out of his misery? No. If you die without Christ you are not out of your misery, your misery is just beginning. Tormented. No rest day and night.
I have people tell me, “I don't like everlasting punishment." Then take your scissors and cut it out of the Bible. The Bible teaches it. The same Bible which teaches everlasting life and a place of everlasting bliss in heaven is the Bible that teaches there is an everlasting place of wrath-forever and forever. It says they have no rest day or night. No rest.
Do I believe that there is fire in hell? Jesus talked in terms of fire in hell. Either the fire in hell is literal or it is something so more serious, something more drastic that fire is the only thing that can even begin to describe it. Whatever it is-you don't want to go to hell. Whatever it is-you don't want to face this torment of fire and brimstone.
An Indiana Cemetery, I am told, has a tombstone over 100 years old that bears this epitaph:
Pause, stranger, when you pass me by,
As you are now, so once was I.
As I am now, so you will be,
So prepare for death, and follow me.
Well some unknown passerby read those words and scratched this reply below them:
To follow you, I'm not content,
Until I know which way you went.
---JKP3
The world scoffs at the idea of hell. Men of God who dare to preach the truth of the Bible concerning this terrible place, are sarcastically labeled "hell fire and damnation preachers." Even many church members squirm in their seats and get a little embarrassed when the pastor preaches on hell.
Sometimes people say, "I think all the hell you are going to get is in this world." That is only partially true. If you are saved, the only hell you will ever know is in this world. But when you die you are going to go to heaven and be with Jesus forever and ever. No more sorrow. No more heartache. No more grief. No more pain. All the hell saved people ever experience is what they experience on this earth. But if you do not know Christ as your Savior and you die in that lost condition, whatever misery you have experienced on the earth will be just the beginning and then in hell forever and forever. No rest day or night.
Someone dies and they say he's out of his misery. Is he? Is he really out of his misery? No. If you die without Christ you are not out of your misery, your misery is just beginning. Tormented. No rest day and night.
I have people tell me, “I don't like everlasting punishment." Then take your scissors and cut it out of the Bible. The Bible teaches it. The same Bible which teaches everlasting life and a place of everlasting bliss in heaven is the Bible that teaches there is an everlasting place of wrath-forever and forever. It says they have no rest day or night. No rest.
Do I believe that there is fire in hell? Jesus talked in terms of fire in hell. Either the fire in hell is literal or it is something so more serious, something more drastic that fire is the only thing that can even begin to describe it. Whatever it is-you don't want to go to hell. Whatever it is-you don't want to face this torment of fire and brimstone.
An Indiana Cemetery, I am told, has a tombstone over 100 years old that bears this epitaph:
Pause, stranger, when you pass me by,
As you are now, so once was I.
As I am now, so you will be,
So prepare for death, and follow me.
Well some unknown passerby read those words and scratched this reply below them:
To follow you, I'm not content,
Until I know which way you went.
---JKP3
Thursday, September 9, 2010
The Koran burning
Okay, most of us agree that the buring of the Koran planned by the pastor in Florida is NOT what Jesus would do. It is okay for others to burn our flag, bibles, etc, and that be a statement of freedom of speech.... and I haven't heard anyone say that this pastor does not have the freedom to do what he plans.... but it just isn't wise. Of course we don't do things just because we can. Which leads me to my point.
How much responsibility in this whole thing does the MEDIA bear? If the media had ignored this guy and his church of 50,it would be a NON-ISSUE both nationally and internationally. The media has made it what it is and to a large degree is responsible if bad things happen to American troops, or violence here in our homeland. The media chooses what to cover and what not to cover. A good question is why did they choose to cover this misguided theolog who wishes to turn his faith into a political incendiary.
Just asking. What do you think?
How much responsibility in this whole thing does the MEDIA bear? If the media had ignored this guy and his church of 50,it would be a NON-ISSUE both nationally and internationally. The media has made it what it is and to a large degree is responsible if bad things happen to American troops, or violence here in our homeland. The media chooses what to cover and what not to cover. A good question is why did they choose to cover this misguided theolog who wishes to turn his faith into a political incendiary.
Just asking. What do you think?
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Coming back soon
A few weeks ago I signed off all social media for a break. I will return soon with regular blogs. Thank you for checking while I was away. I will facebook when I have a new entry.
jkp3
jkp3
Monday, August 2, 2010
Check this out from 9Marks
How can I grow my church?
1.The short answer is, you can’t.
2.You can faithfully scatter the seed of the Word, but only God can make it grow (1 Cor. 3:6).
3.You can faithfully call people to turn from their sin and trust in Christ, but only God grants faith and repentance (Phil. 1:29; Acts 11:18).
4.You can alert people to the danger of their state, but only God can raise them from spiritual death (Eph. 2:1, 5).
5.That’s not to say that your efforts to faithfully preach and pray and lead don’t matter. It’s just to say that you cannot create any spiritual fruit. You cannot convert a sinner. You cannot cause a Christian to overcome a sin. You cannot cause your church to grow in the ways that matter most. That all finally depends on God’s sovereign and omnipotent grace alone.
6.Numerical growth is not always equal to, or the best indicator of, spiritual growth. The bare fact that more people show up on Sunday morning does not mean a church is growing spiritually.
7.Therefore, any strategy for growing a church that promises success based on what you do, without taking into account that only God can bring genuine spiritual fruit, is fundamentally misguided because it is aiming at numerical growth to the exclusion of genuine spiritual growth.
8.On the other hand, if you’re a pastor, you have the responsibility to faithfully preach the Word, pray, shepherd the people, live a holy life, and trust that God will bring fruit in his own time. Not only that, but as you faithfully preach, pray, and lead, you should expect God to bless his appointed means for saving sinners and sanctifying saints. You should expect your church to grow, both numerically and spiritually. So preach, pray, lead, and expect God to bless your efforts.
www.9marks.org
How can I grow my church?
1.The short answer is, you can’t.
2.You can faithfully scatter the seed of the Word, but only God can make it grow (1 Cor. 3:6).
3.You can faithfully call people to turn from their sin and trust in Christ, but only God grants faith and repentance (Phil. 1:29; Acts 11:18).
4.You can alert people to the danger of their state, but only God can raise them from spiritual death (Eph. 2:1, 5).
5.That’s not to say that your efforts to faithfully preach and pray and lead don’t matter. It’s just to say that you cannot create any spiritual fruit. You cannot convert a sinner. You cannot cause a Christian to overcome a sin. You cannot cause your church to grow in the ways that matter most. That all finally depends on God’s sovereign and omnipotent grace alone.
6.Numerical growth is not always equal to, or the best indicator of, spiritual growth. The bare fact that more people show up on Sunday morning does not mean a church is growing spiritually.
7.Therefore, any strategy for growing a church that promises success based on what you do, without taking into account that only God can bring genuine spiritual fruit, is fundamentally misguided because it is aiming at numerical growth to the exclusion of genuine spiritual growth.
8.On the other hand, if you’re a pastor, you have the responsibility to faithfully preach the Word, pray, shepherd the people, live a holy life, and trust that God will bring fruit in his own time. Not only that, but as you faithfully preach, pray, and lead, you should expect God to bless his appointed means for saving sinners and sanctifying saints. You should expect your church to grow, both numerically and spiritually. So preach, pray, lead, and expect God to bless your efforts.
www.9marks.org
Saturday, July 17, 2010
How I Make Decisions
How I Make Decisions
Dr. James K. Pierce, III (1997)
This is from an article on CEO’s and their approaches to major decisions.
I tell my plans, listen to reactions, then decide 5%
I listen to recommendations, then I decide. 32%
I develop a consensus with which I can agree. 20%
I go with the consensus, even if I disagree. 3%
I support the decision of the most competent person. 2%
Regardless of the forum or participation, I approve or veto. 13%
A combination of two or more of the above approaches 20%
Other 5%
Did you notice the highest two were “listening to recommendations and then deciding,” or “developing a consensus with which I can agree” Only 3% say, “I go with the consensus, even if I disagree.” That’s the difference between a leader and a manager. The leaders says, “You may all think that’s the way to go, but I don’t agree with it, so I’m not going that way.”
A lot of people will write me letters or come and say to me, “Pastor, I want to share with you…” And I know they want to change my mind. What I need to say, is that there is a major difference between me listening to you and making a decision you are going to agree with. Now, if you want me to listen and hear your side, I’m ready. If your agenda is for me to change my decision, we are in a different ballgame. It doesn’t mean I won’t change my mind, but I may not. If I don’t change my mind that doesn’t mean I didn’t listen to you.
Some people think that if you listen to them, if you truly listen you are going to change your decision. That doesn’t mean that at all. A leader understands the difference between listening to advice with an open mind and changing the decision. It is interesting to me that only 3% of CEOs changed their minds even if there was a consensus if they didn’t feel it was right.
I read an article one time on how good leaders are intuitive as far as what is right. The good leader and a not so good leader is the intuition between what is right. There is a difference in listening to others and being led by others. As a leader, when you are fairly sure about your decision, you should listen and accept input, but stay focused.
As your pastor, I am always more than happy to listen, and many times I have changed my mind on the advice of others. Other times I have listened and not changed my mind. One man came to me at one time and said that there was no use in talking to me because it didn’t help. What he was saying was that I did not change my decision to satisfy what he thought I needed to do.
Our world today is sports oriented. With that in mind, an excellent illustration of the job of the “pastor” is that of “spiritual football.” God is the owner of the team, the pastor is the coach, and the laity are the players. Each part of the team is crucial.
The Bible gives guidelines about the Pastor, his role as a leader and to whom he is accountable.
1 Peter 5:1-5
1 To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. 5 Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,
“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
Ephesians 4:11-12
11 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12 to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up
1 Timothy 5:17-21
17 The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. 18 For the Scripture says, “Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain,” and “The worker deserves his wages.” 19 Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. 20 Those who sin are to be rebuked publicly, so that the others may take warning. 21 I charge you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, to keep these instructions without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism.
Titus 2:15
15 These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you.
Hebrews 13:17
17 Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.
These passages all deal with the role and responsibilities of the pastor. Further study into leadership in Scripture will reveal that God always gives vision to one man rather than to a whole. There is always a head, always one person who has responsibility. The same must be true for the local church. Because leaders and pastors are human and will make mistakes and wrong decisions at times, it is imperative that we pray for our pastors and leaders. We should try to build them up and support them rather than criticize and make their work difficult. That is the message of Paul in First Timothy.
1 Timothy 2:1-3
1 I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior,
My desire is that these words and Scriptures will help you better understand how I make decisions as your pastor.
I love being your pastor,
Dr. James K. Pierce, III (1997)
This is from an article on CEO’s and their approaches to major decisions.
I tell my plans, listen to reactions, then decide 5%
I listen to recommendations, then I decide. 32%
I develop a consensus with which I can agree. 20%
I go with the consensus, even if I disagree. 3%
I support the decision of the most competent person. 2%
Regardless of the forum or participation, I approve or veto. 13%
A combination of two or more of the above approaches 20%
Other 5%
Did you notice the highest two were “listening to recommendations and then deciding,” or “developing a consensus with which I can agree” Only 3% say, “I go with the consensus, even if I disagree.” That’s the difference between a leader and a manager. The leaders says, “You may all think that’s the way to go, but I don’t agree with it, so I’m not going that way.”
A lot of people will write me letters or come and say to me, “Pastor, I want to share with you…” And I know they want to change my mind. What I need to say, is that there is a major difference between me listening to you and making a decision you are going to agree with. Now, if you want me to listen and hear your side, I’m ready. If your agenda is for me to change my decision, we are in a different ballgame. It doesn’t mean I won’t change my mind, but I may not. If I don’t change my mind that doesn’t mean I didn’t listen to you.
Some people think that if you listen to them, if you truly listen you are going to change your decision. That doesn’t mean that at all. A leader understands the difference between listening to advice with an open mind and changing the decision. It is interesting to me that only 3% of CEOs changed their minds even if there was a consensus if they didn’t feel it was right.
I read an article one time on how good leaders are intuitive as far as what is right. The good leader and a not so good leader is the intuition between what is right. There is a difference in listening to others and being led by others. As a leader, when you are fairly sure about your decision, you should listen and accept input, but stay focused.
As your pastor, I am always more than happy to listen, and many times I have changed my mind on the advice of others. Other times I have listened and not changed my mind. One man came to me at one time and said that there was no use in talking to me because it didn’t help. What he was saying was that I did not change my decision to satisfy what he thought I needed to do.
Our world today is sports oriented. With that in mind, an excellent illustration of the job of the “pastor” is that of “spiritual football.” God is the owner of the team, the pastor is the coach, and the laity are the players. Each part of the team is crucial.
The Bible gives guidelines about the Pastor, his role as a leader and to whom he is accountable.
1 Peter 5:1-5
1 To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. 5 Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,
“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
Ephesians 4:11-12
11 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12 to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up
1 Timothy 5:17-21
17 The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. 18 For the Scripture says, “Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain,” and “The worker deserves his wages.” 19 Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. 20 Those who sin are to be rebuked publicly, so that the others may take warning. 21 I charge you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, to keep these instructions without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism.
Titus 2:15
15 These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you.
Hebrews 13:17
17 Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.
These passages all deal with the role and responsibilities of the pastor. Further study into leadership in Scripture will reveal that God always gives vision to one man rather than to a whole. There is always a head, always one person who has responsibility. The same must be true for the local church. Because leaders and pastors are human and will make mistakes and wrong decisions at times, it is imperative that we pray for our pastors and leaders. We should try to build them up and support them rather than criticize and make their work difficult. That is the message of Paul in First Timothy.
1 Timothy 2:1-3
1 I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior,
My desire is that these words and Scriptures will help you better understand how I make decisions as your pastor.
I love being your pastor,
Friday, July 9, 2010
Growing Deeper
If I could go back and chart the greatest episodes of growth and spiritual depth in my life, they ALWAYS occurred during times of adversity and pain I mean without exception. None of us will ever truly grow closer or go deeper with God apart from pain.
The fact of the matter is, grass grows thicker and greener in the valley than it does on the mountain top. And so it is with us. We grow more in character and spirituality in the valleys of life, than we do on the mountain tops of life. That's just the way it is, just as fire purifies gold, just as abrasion polishes metal, just as heat strengthens and tempers steel, just as boiling water brings out the flavor of tea. We, too, must enter times of adversity, fire, pain and suffering if we are going to ever be fully refined in our character, and drawn to a deep abiding relationship with Christ, apart from the brokenness and pain, that comes through suffering and adversity.
Hard to read, harder to believe, nontheless true...
The fact of the matter is, grass grows thicker and greener in the valley than it does on the mountain top. And so it is with us. We grow more in character and spirituality in the valleys of life, than we do on the mountain tops of life. That's just the way it is, just as fire purifies gold, just as abrasion polishes metal, just as heat strengthens and tempers steel, just as boiling water brings out the flavor of tea. We, too, must enter times of adversity, fire, pain and suffering if we are going to ever be fully refined in our character, and drawn to a deep abiding relationship with Christ, apart from the brokenness and pain, that comes through suffering and adversity.
Hard to read, harder to believe, nontheless true...
Monday, July 5, 2010
GCR--it is personal!
Galatians 6:9 (NKJV)
9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
We plant the seed of God’s Word in the hearts of people who hear it, and we seek to cultivate that seed by our love and prayers. In due time, that seed may bear fruit to the glory of God.
At this moment more people on planet earth are lost and without Christ than ever before in human history. This world is ripe for the taking. The opportunity for missions, evangelism, soul-winning, and kingdom growing, is unprecedented. There are more open doors to share the gospel than ever before.
Crime, drugs, abortion, homosexuality, the breakup of the family, have all combined to give us the most depressed, discouraged, disillusioned culture in our nation’s history. The question is not “is there an opportunity?” but “will we seize the opportunity?”
We must SEE the opportunity, and we must SIEZE the opportunity.
Remember:
Psalm 126:5-6, Those who sow in tears Shall reap in joy. 6 He who continually goes forth weeping, Bearing seed for sowing, Shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, Bringing his sheaves with him.
Galatians 6:9, 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
2 Corinthians 9:6, 6 But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
We plant the seed of God’s Word in the hearts of people who hear it, and we seek to cultivate that seed by our love and prayers. In due time, that seed may bear fruit to the glory of God.
At this moment more people on planet earth are lost and without Christ than ever before in human history. This world is ripe for the taking. The opportunity for missions, evangelism, soul-winning, and kingdom growing, is unprecedented. There are more open doors to share the gospel than ever before.
Crime, drugs, abortion, homosexuality, the breakup of the family, have all combined to give us the most depressed, discouraged, disillusioned culture in our nation’s history. The question is not “is there an opportunity?” but “will we seize the opportunity?”
We must SEE the opportunity, and we must SIEZE the opportunity.
Remember:
Psalm 126:5-6, Those who sow in tears Shall reap in joy. 6 He who continually goes forth weeping, Bearing seed for sowing, Shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, Bringing his sheaves with him.
Galatians 6:9, 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
2 Corinthians 9:6, 6 But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Great Commission Resurgence
June 28, 2010
Since I have returned from Orlando, several people have asked me about the GCR report/resolutions. I will attempt to reduce my thoughts.
I am Southern Baptist through and through. I have been a pastor in a Southern Baptist Church since shortly after my 19th birthday. My Dad is a Southern Baptist Pastor. My maternal Grandfather was a Southern Baptist Pastor. There are other denominational workers (pastors, musicians, etc.) in my family, so I qualify as Southern Baptist through and through.
My first Southern Baptist Convention was Atlantic City, New Jersey back in the 60s as a kid. My brother and sisters and I climbed into the upper arena and played “Old Maids” during the debates. I was present at most if not all of the conventions through the decades of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. I missed few if any conventions until the mid-2000s. I say all of this to establish that I am familiar with the convention atmosphere. I have seen emphases and themes come and go. I have seen the crowds wax and wane with the interest in the elections or the topic. Many times debate seemed to be over semantics, or over “words” more than over substantive actions. So, as we approached the latest “issue” in Southern Baptist life, I was skeptical as to whether this would be anything more than words. Is this really the biggest thing since the “Battle for the Bible?”
I think that Dr. Hunt got it right when he said that “programs and plans do not work, people do.” I remember my Dad saying that many times throughout his ministry. I have found that to be true in my own ministry. The issue is not on whether we call it “Great Commission Giving” or “Cooperative Program Giving,” the real issue is not the program but the people. Do we change the name of our giving because we have become bored with the name, or because we have disagreed with the way the funding was allocated to the agencies and missions in the past? Would not a re-allocation of Cooperative Program funds do the same thing?
The real issue is whether the Holy Spirit grabs the hearts and souls of those who profess Christ, and motivates them to obedience all areas of living, holiness and evangelism. I personally don’t want to strain on the nomenclature, but get to the substance. The substance is the ordinary Southern Baptist is not doing Great Commission Work on a day in, day out basis.
I appreciate the Cooperative Program. I benefited from it as a young pastor in a language missions church in South Louisiana. I always led the churches I serve as pastor to give at least a tithe to the CP---that is until I became more aware of how our state was using the portion of monies it kept in state. Some of the institutions that were supported with CP dollars did not even teach the infallibility of the Scriptures. Even though we had won that battle on the national front, it seemed that we were unable to get the upper hand on the state level. Therefore, over 15 years ago, I led our congregation to begin to designate a percentage of our CP dollars to the IMB and NAMB. Even then our church leadership felt that not enough funding was making its way from the local church to the “Great Commission” agencies. As a church in the early to mid-90s, we began to take mission trips from our congregation to Mexico, Canada, etc. In the early 2000s we became one of the first Global Priority Churches and regularly have members of our church family participate in “unreached people group” work. We purchased and established a “Mission House” for furloughing missionaries that is regularly used. In many respects our church began to do what GCR proposed at the SBC this year, 10-15 years ago. Therefore, I was in favor of the resolution.
The question remains, is this just talk? Or, will the denominational agencies, state conventions, and local churches get on board and “GO.” Our talk on the convention level certainly has not been cheap, but many times ineffective. Will this be an emphasis that causes everyone to want to get on board?
I plan to suggest significant changes in the way the church I pastor operates, especially in the area of community and local missions--to become better stewards not only of our financial resources, but of our opportunity. I want to strengthen our Great Commission efforts locally. That means making changes. Nobody seems to be in favor of change until the change is less painful than the status quo. Maybe that is what has prodded the SBC to act; if we do not change, we will continue to drift into insignificance.
Since I have returned from Orlando, several people have asked me about the GCR report/resolutions. I will attempt to reduce my thoughts.
I am Southern Baptist through and through. I have been a pastor in a Southern Baptist Church since shortly after my 19th birthday. My Dad is a Southern Baptist Pastor. My maternal Grandfather was a Southern Baptist Pastor. There are other denominational workers (pastors, musicians, etc.) in my family, so I qualify as Southern Baptist through and through.
My first Southern Baptist Convention was Atlantic City, New Jersey back in the 60s as a kid. My brother and sisters and I climbed into the upper arena and played “Old Maids” during the debates. I was present at most if not all of the conventions through the decades of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. I missed few if any conventions until the mid-2000s. I say all of this to establish that I am familiar with the convention atmosphere. I have seen emphases and themes come and go. I have seen the crowds wax and wane with the interest in the elections or the topic. Many times debate seemed to be over semantics, or over “words” more than over substantive actions. So, as we approached the latest “issue” in Southern Baptist life, I was skeptical as to whether this would be anything more than words. Is this really the biggest thing since the “Battle for the Bible?”
I think that Dr. Hunt got it right when he said that “programs and plans do not work, people do.” I remember my Dad saying that many times throughout his ministry. I have found that to be true in my own ministry. The issue is not on whether we call it “Great Commission Giving” or “Cooperative Program Giving,” the real issue is not the program but the people. Do we change the name of our giving because we have become bored with the name, or because we have disagreed with the way the funding was allocated to the agencies and missions in the past? Would not a re-allocation of Cooperative Program funds do the same thing?
The real issue is whether the Holy Spirit grabs the hearts and souls of those who profess Christ, and motivates them to obedience all areas of living, holiness and evangelism. I personally don’t want to strain on the nomenclature, but get to the substance. The substance is the ordinary Southern Baptist is not doing Great Commission Work on a day in, day out basis.
I appreciate the Cooperative Program. I benefited from it as a young pastor in a language missions church in South Louisiana. I always led the churches I serve as pastor to give at least a tithe to the CP---that is until I became more aware of how our state was using the portion of monies it kept in state. Some of the institutions that were supported with CP dollars did not even teach the infallibility of the Scriptures. Even though we had won that battle on the national front, it seemed that we were unable to get the upper hand on the state level. Therefore, over 15 years ago, I led our congregation to begin to designate a percentage of our CP dollars to the IMB and NAMB. Even then our church leadership felt that not enough funding was making its way from the local church to the “Great Commission” agencies. As a church in the early to mid-90s, we began to take mission trips from our congregation to Mexico, Canada, etc. In the early 2000s we became one of the first Global Priority Churches and regularly have members of our church family participate in “unreached people group” work. We purchased and established a “Mission House” for furloughing missionaries that is regularly used. In many respects our church began to do what GCR proposed at the SBC this year, 10-15 years ago. Therefore, I was in favor of the resolution.
The question remains, is this just talk? Or, will the denominational agencies, state conventions, and local churches get on board and “GO.” Our talk on the convention level certainly has not been cheap, but many times ineffective. Will this be an emphasis that causes everyone to want to get on board?
I plan to suggest significant changes in the way the church I pastor operates, especially in the area of community and local missions--to become better stewards not only of our financial resources, but of our opportunity. I want to strengthen our Great Commission efforts locally. That means making changes. Nobody seems to be in favor of change until the change is less painful than the status quo. Maybe that is what has prodded the SBC to act; if we do not change, we will continue to drift into insignificance.
Friday, June 18, 2010
“The Gospel Commandments of Leadership”
Can't Remember Where I picked these up, but they are good.
The following “Ten Commandments” by an unknown author, have been adapted and supplemented with Scripture passages to further enhance their great truths.
1. People are illogical, unreasonable, and self-centered. Love and trust them anyway. “Father forgive them. They know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)
2. If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives. Do good anyway. “And Jesus told them, ‘you are like children who don’t know what they want. John the Baptist came neither eating nor drinking, and you said he had a demon. The Son of Man comes eating and drinking, and you say I am a glutton, a friend of sinners.’” (Matthew 11:16-19)
3. If you are successful you will win false friends and true enemies. Succeed anyway. The crowds who cheered Him on Sunday and called Him King were the same who on Friday cried, “Crucify Him.” Even the priests said, “We have no king but Caesar.” (Luke 19:36-40; John 10:1-6)
4. The service you render today will be forgotten tomorrow. Serve people anyway. “Were not ten lepers cleansed, and only one returned to give thanks? My words will bring division.” (Luke 17:11-19)
5. Honesty and frankness will make you vulnerable. Be honest and frank anyway. “And Jesus said, ‘Do not think I’ve come to bring peace to the world.’” (Luke 12:51; 13:5)
6. The biggest men with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest men with the smallest ideas. Think big anyway. “During the supper the Lord Jesus foretold that one of them would betray Him . . . .the disciples questioned which one it might be, and a dispute rose among them as to which was the greatest.” (Luke 22:22-24)
7. People pretend to love the “little” people, but sell their souls to the “big” people. Fight for the “little” people anyway. “Let little children come unto me, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 19:13-14)
8. What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight. Build anyway. “Judas came, kissed Him, and they took hold of Him . . . then all the disciples forsook Him and fled.” (Matthew 26:36-56)
9. People really need help, but may attack you if you do help. Help people anyway. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me. . . to preach’ .. . but all who heard Him thrust Him out.” (Luke 4:16-30)
10. Give the world the best you have and you’ll get kicked in the teeth. Give the world the best you have anyway. “Pilate said, ‘Who shall I give unto you . . . the murderer and robber, Barabbus, or Jesus, who is called the Christ?’ And they all cried, ‘Give us Barabbus!’” (Matthew 27:15-27)
The following “Ten Commandments” by an unknown author, have been adapted and supplemented with Scripture passages to further enhance their great truths.
1. People are illogical, unreasonable, and self-centered. Love and trust them anyway. “Father forgive them. They know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)
2. If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives. Do good anyway. “And Jesus told them, ‘you are like children who don’t know what they want. John the Baptist came neither eating nor drinking, and you said he had a demon. The Son of Man comes eating and drinking, and you say I am a glutton, a friend of sinners.’” (Matthew 11:16-19)
3. If you are successful you will win false friends and true enemies. Succeed anyway. The crowds who cheered Him on Sunday and called Him King were the same who on Friday cried, “Crucify Him.” Even the priests said, “We have no king but Caesar.” (Luke 19:36-40; John 10:1-6)
4. The service you render today will be forgotten tomorrow. Serve people anyway. “Were not ten lepers cleansed, and only one returned to give thanks? My words will bring division.” (Luke 17:11-19)
5. Honesty and frankness will make you vulnerable. Be honest and frank anyway. “And Jesus said, ‘Do not think I’ve come to bring peace to the world.’” (Luke 12:51; 13:5)
6. The biggest men with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest men with the smallest ideas. Think big anyway. “During the supper the Lord Jesus foretold that one of them would betray Him . . . .the disciples questioned which one it might be, and a dispute rose among them as to which was the greatest.” (Luke 22:22-24)
7. People pretend to love the “little” people, but sell their souls to the “big” people. Fight for the “little” people anyway. “Let little children come unto me, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 19:13-14)
8. What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight. Build anyway. “Judas came, kissed Him, and they took hold of Him . . . then all the disciples forsook Him and fled.” (Matthew 26:36-56)
9. People really need help, but may attack you if you do help. Help people anyway. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me. . . to preach’ .. . but all who heard Him thrust Him out.” (Luke 4:16-30)
10. Give the world the best you have and you’ll get kicked in the teeth. Give the world the best you have anyway. “Pilate said, ‘Who shall I give unto you . . . the murderer and robber, Barabbus, or Jesus, who is called the Christ?’ And they all cried, ‘Give us Barabbus!’” (Matthew 27:15-27)
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