indecoblog

A World of Darkness: thoughts on the enlightenment

2011-12-15T10:22:00.001-06:00

AWorld of Darkness

Colton Clay

"Itwill be different from all the other kingdoms and will devour thewhole earth, trampling it down and crushing it."Daniel 7:23 NIV

Howdo we know? How do we know if we are awake or dreaming? Could it bethat we are within someone else's dream? These are just some of thequestions which define the science of epistemology, a science whichcame of age during the enlightenment and gave birth to the world weknow today. “Like the Renaissance, the Enlightenment was anall-encompassing trend of thought that is very hard to define.”^¹This paper will look at the effect an epistemological shift, expressedby the enlightenment, had upon the church and the cultural shifts thatfollowed. While it could be defined in many ways, one importantcharacteristic of the enlightenment was that it caused people to lookat the world with new eyes- the eyes of reason, not those of faith.^²Ideas once born give birth to civilizations. As Luther’s awakeningto “the just shall live by faith,” eventually gave birth to thereformation; Descartes cogitoergo sumgives birth to western secularization.^³

DistantCousins Twice Removed.

Theenlightenment may appear to be the ante-reformation, but upon acloser inspection, the two shared several similarities. During thereformation a similar question had been asked in regards to thefoundation of truth, “did its finality reside in the bible or inthe Church?” By asking the question “what path do we take toarrive at an agreed upon Theology” the Reformers prepared theground for the enlightenment.^⁴The primary thinkers of the enlightenment can be compared to thereformation. The reformation was at its core a question ofhermeneutics, astudy of how we derive God’s will or truth, justas the enlightenment begins with the question “how do we know”. The Reformation was spawned from new developments and new curiositiesin historical knowledge. Humanists such as Erasmus sparked renewedinterest in antiquity which in time prepares the ground that givesrise to the Reformation. Its thinkers and reformers are empowered bythe new technology of Gutenberg’s press. The Enlightenment thinkersare equally stirred by the radical changes in society that heretoforequestion the foundation of established belief systems. Just as agreat number of the ideas present in the Reformation were promoted toadvance political transformation, so to the likes of the “grubstreet hacks” make use of the enlightenment to rail againstunearned privilege of the monarchy. Later the ideologies of thereformation and enlightenment work their way into all western formsgovernment, occasionally as is the case of Thomas Jefferson it iseven by the same pen. Both are stirred by a desire to find absolutesand both leave lasting legacies on almost all areas of westerncivilization. As the Reformers uphold the scripture as the source ofunwavering truth, the enlightenment puts its faith in mathematicsprinciples. Three diverging movements begin to take shape; for RomanCatholics a person need only to look to the church to find theanswers, for the Reformers; sola scriptura and for the children ofthe enlightened age, it would become man’s own ability to reason. Alegacy that has remained to this day even becoming the praxeology inmany modern churches who give lip service to the theology of solascriptura.

Atthe core of cogitoergo sumDescartes tastes the fruit of original sin, “you shall be like God,knowing right from wrong.” While he believed himself to be withinthe framework of the Catholic church, his methodology of knowledge isin many ways the seed that impregnates the world with an idea thatwill give birth to Daniels fourth kingdom.^⁵
It was not Descartes alone any more than Luther single handily formedthe Reformation, but his epistemology would become the source oftransformation that would spark the resulting change, just asLuther’s ninety-five thesis unwittingly set so much in motionbefore. Newton and Locke would also have key roles to play in displacingthe bible and divine revelations with mathematical principles andman’s ability to reason and experience his world. ^⁶Prior to this cultural shift the interest of Christianity and theinterest of European civilization were regard as to expression of thesame reality. Once the Enlightenment gave birth to secularizationcoupled with the dechristianization effects of the French Revolution,temporal realities began to displace Christian realities as thecenter of European loyalty, preoccupation and civilization.^⁷

Asthe two began to separate in an on again off again relationship, muchlike, an afternoon soap opera the church found itself in unfamiliarterritory. While the Christian worldview too this day holds a strongsway on culture and civilization, one would have to go back topre-Edict of Milan to find the church occupying such a place insociety as it does today. All of this is a direct result of the enlightenment's impact on western civilization. At the founding ofuniversities, the likes of Oxford and Cambridge the study of thetheology held the highest place among academia, she was the “Queenof the Sciences!” Within one hundred years after the birth of theenlightenment the Queen found she needed to justify her place at thetable. For quite some time to follow, all humanities would take aback seat to the mathematical disciplines.

"GetBack to Where You First Belonged"

Itcould be said that all of this worked to push the church back whereit belonged. For years prior to the events of the enlightenment thechurch was not only comfortable with the powers that be far to oftenit occupied that very position, to the neglect of commoner.^⁸Failing to grasp the appreciation Jesus had for the discarded outcastof this world the historical leaders of Christianity have oftenmislead themselves to place undue importance on political power. Forgetting their Kings own words, “Atthat time Jesus declared, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heavenand earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise andunderstanding and revealed them to little children”Matthew11: 25 NIV A characteristic not confined to Christ’s first disciples, as Paulwould later point out, “brothersnot many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not manywere powerful, not many were of noble birth.”ICorinthians 1:26 NIV The key point here being, accordingto worldly standards, thosestandards where changed by the Christianization of Rome. For tencenturies to follow, the church enjoyed a position of prominence inthe minds of the west and subsequently spent less time concerned withthe hearts and minds of those to whom the faith was first received.Far too comfortable with the wise and powerful decedents of noblebirth, it was fitting that commoners in France would rise anddethrone the monarchy and take the church down for good measure.Christendom has taken a blow over the past three hundred years, asit’s position in society has been far less assured.

“Thework of historians like Gibbon was showing that Christian doctrinehad not been laid down in some once-for-all divine moment and thatit was not all clearly there in the Bible, which is what peopletended to assume. It was now becoming clear that Christian doctrinehad developed gradually over a period of centuries. So why on earthshould anyone believe it?”^⁹

Withthe limitations of human logic and experience firmly grounded at thecenter of truth and discovery, Christian thought faced and continuesto face an unprecedented challenge. This ostracizing of theology doesnot imply the church was not filled with wisdom and higher education- far from it. The Church has continued to be infused with the wisestof educators and greatest of minds to grace this world. While Comte,Darwin, Marx, Nietzsche and Freud where helping to secularize thewestern world, Kierkegaard, Hodge, Stuart, and Payne whereformulating the diverging path of Christendom.^¹⁰Expulsion from the elite boded well for the church in many areas asshe spread her reach into the highways and byways of not only westbut all the world. “While Matthew Arnold's “sea of faith” mayhave been receding in Europe, even an outgoing tide could remain avigorous force.”^¹¹Christianity once again, after many long years, gives adherentslittle in the way of social clout and mobility in European culture.While here in America a piece of the old Constantine guard stilllongs to make a bed in Babylon, it is only within her own house thatthe Queen is honored. The cost of this cultural shift will be greatand the price is still uncertain. However, the opportunity thatstands before the church today is nothing short of glorious. Now onceagain by going “outside the gate” to be with her betrothed thechurch may be renewed to reflect who she truly is. While many wentkicking and screaming, and some still are, it is only outside ofBabylon that the church will once again become a city on a hillsideshining a light unto this darkened world.

1 Johathan Hill (2003). The History of Christian Thought. Downers Grove Ill. Inter-Varsity Press. 217.

2 Hill. 217.

3 This was never the intention of Descartes, he believed his ideas to work in conjunction with the Christian faith. But, as history has often shown Ideas have a life of their own.

4 In many ways they share the same principle trust in human ability, consider this observation of historian Mark A. Noll “The authority of human conscience had been proclaimed over against the authority of the church councils, in the contradiction to the weight of tradition, and in the very face of the emperor himself. Even though Luther spoke of his conscience as bound by Scripture, he had introduced, with moving power, a new principle of authority.” Mark A. Noll (2000). Turning Points: Decisive Moments in the History of Christianity: Baker Academic 156. Once ambiguity arises in regards to the interpretation of the bible, the principle sources of truth in the equation remains human conscience. The enlightenment simply replaces the bible with mathematical principles, but remains rooted in mans ability to reason.

5 Daniels fourth kingdom is like no other combined with the beast of Revelation gives the impression that this is kingdom finds highest forms in man, humanism carried to its logical conclusion.

6 Justo L. Gonzalez (2010). The Story of Christianity. New York, Ny.: Harper Collins. 240.

7 Noll. 251, 253.

8 Theology and the Church can and does offer the surest of foundations for society. But, often when given the chance to lead, embraced the same corrupting forces as any other.

9 Hill. 219, 220.

10 This list is merely a representation of contemporaries to the previous list. A full list would undoubtedly be much longer.

11 Noll. 261

The Love of God

2011-11-13T15:36:00.002-06:00

2011-11-13T14:14:00.001-06:00

The Christian World View Part 2

2011-11-11T16:00:00.000-06:00

Setting the Captives Free: Individuals who Worked in the name of Christ for Justice Among the Indigenous Peoples in the Americas. - by Colton Clay

2011-11-10T21:37:00.001-06:00

To better our understanding of the multitude of Christians who worked for justice among the indigenous people in the Americas, it is necessary to discuss some common pitfalls when critiquing this era of history. It is easy to make the mistake of evaluating historical events and people based on the ideology and ethics of the present day. Recently I challenged a hermeneutics class at our local church to evaluate the life of Mattathias, father of Judas of Maccabees, in the light of his culture and times. It was astonishing to hear that the overwhelming majority of the participants interpreted Mattathias in the light of not only the New Testament but even modern ethics as well. If we are to have any chance of truly understanding Mattathias, it is imperative to keep in mind that neither the NT or its profound effects on ethics were formulated or present in Mattathias culture.

This rule of historical interpretation holds true for anyone and is widely accepted when considering “ancient” figures and events. However, often when events are closer to our own time period or within the general framework of our culture, people become woefully lax in upholding these important principles.

The same exegetical flaw which impaired my students’ understanding of Mattathias has today become the bedrock of false attitudes toward interpreting European Christendom as it ventured into the Americas. Rather than making the similar mistake for this essay and expecting sixteenth century explorers to comprehend justice and equality in the light of modern ethics, I propose we should instead be encouraged by the foresight of those who could see the light of a more fully developed Christian ethic during such a comparatively different era.

We should also recognize that this was the time determined by God in the unfolding of His glorious plan, that by means of social upheaval and unprecedented global change He would awaken a new chapter of human freedom. First, two words of caution: it would behoove us to take pains in avoiding our current culture’s tendency to revisionist history, idealizing pre-Christian civilizations as naive utopias cannibalized by western imperialism. However, while the results would one day be far superior to path on which they had been, we should avoid romanticizing all of the activities of colonization thereby ignoring blatant and damaging atrocities made under Christian banners. Both of these mistakes have hampered the recent generation’s ability to gain from the rich lessons available to them when there is a balanced appreciation due this era of history.

Because I see it at work and even flowering in the lives of those who by word, deed, and prayer made an inroad to the Kingdom of God, I am obliged to make mention of the theology that in Jesus’ teaching there is the seed of the Kingdom of God. A view that in Christ an ideological seed was planted, the grain that feel to the ground, of societal reform that would lead to a kingdom of justice in which among other things, the meek shall inherit the earth. From the life, death and resurrection of Jesus flows more than eternal salvation but also a new concept of humanity is found that will in time usher in the new Kingdom of Justice. With the early pronouncement of this Kingdom that is within us, with us, and coming, Jesus gave birth to a vision of society described by the prophet Isaiah and heralded by Christ himself in Luke 4.

Regardless of our view concerning this progressive social change sparked by the life and teachings of Jesus, it can well be said that it is a matter of historical fact that progressive freedom and justice has followed the expansion of Christianity throughout the world. If this is a matter whereby one can understand and interpret biblical kingdom prophecy or simply a matter of the residual effect of the faith is debatable.

Either way, it is the convergence of cultural clashes with Christian ideology that make for the calls of equality, fairness and justice in sixteenth century Americas. This was not the first time. Case in point, once the good news of Christ had reached northern Europe, it had a radical effect upon the barbaric societies the faith encountered there. The Christian concepts of love and justice continued to reform and reshape those society, so that by the time of the European discovery of the Americas, the European empire of Christendom itself was in the throes of social, ethical and theological change which would continue a steady march to the creation of the free societies we know today. Under the banner of Christianity those same societies would eventually, even if by force, reach out and affect the barbaric cultures of the Americas the same and possibly more effectively than in Europe centuries earlier. We would err, as many habitually do, if we forget the brutality of the Incas, Mayans or Aztec empires prior to invasion of Spanish Catholicism in this region.

It is also noteworthy that, for someone to assume that all the activities of the European conquerors centered entirely on missional ideology would be equivalent to interpreting all modern U.S. Middle Eastern policy to center entirely around a humanitarian effort. Simply put, there was substantial wealth to be made in the Americas, or at the very least the promise thereof. It is better to understand the full spectrum of thought present in the mix: it was, after all, a mad dash for money, land and power. For many people, this was not counterintuitive to the Christianizing of the indigenous people. The Spanish, who where conquering, viewed society to be a creation of providence: a God given and natural order to societal structure. With this mentality their advancements give them reason to believe they have a providential right to rule. They are not being harsh or barbaric in the activities. It is their understanding that they are following the structure inherent within God’s created system. It could be logically assumed to them, that because they possessed both the means and foresight to occupy these lands, it was subsequently their right and calling to do so. They would be improving the current civilization, advancing their empire which was synonymous with Christianity, and bringing the knowledge of salvation to the indigenous people in the process. Several of these points cannot and should not be argued with, but as with so many things “the devil is in the details”.

It is within and truly apart of this system that Bartolome de las Casas first arrives in the Americas, not to save its inhabitants from Spanish rule but to reach them with the Catholic faith. However, with activist such as Bartolome de las Casas, combined with bold proclamations like the Sublimus Dei and the prophetic preaching of Friar Antón Montesino, a new chapter in human dignity and Kingdom ethics was breaking upon history.

The first question is when attempting to understand Bartolome de las Casas, who in many ways embodies the entire defense of dignity on behalf of the Americans, would be: what prompted this change of heart? I believe when we understand this change of heart, we gain insight into all of Christ’s servants who did not ask that the Americas not be Christianized but that they be Christianized by the true spirit of Christianity itself and not the overwhelming power of the Western Empires. It brought to memory a personal epiphany concerning one’s accepted view of the world. I grew up in the South, educated by and large within the public school system thereof. It never dawned on me that my view and understanding of both the cause and characters of the Civil War where inherently biased.

Later in life, I ventured into the northern Midwest and began to perceive an alternative view. It was not that I was unaware that my education had been biased by my geography; it was simply a matter of having never been challenged to question those thoughts. They had been shared by so many that they where interwoven into the fabric. Together we had all agreed and, therefore, there was nothing to question. So it was with Bartolome de las Casas. When he arrives in the Americas, de las Casas is himself a holder of Indians and property. However, in time, having been transposed from the fabric of the familiar where injustice can be easily hide within comfort of the mundane, Bartolome and others began to wrestle with ethical challenges that lay before them.

Friar Antón Montesino fired the first shot by recognizing the conflict between the praxis and law in his magnificently bold sermon: “With What Right?” Soon, others would follow, and a lively, important debate had begun. Bolstered by the remarkably insightful Pope Paul III, passionate monks and priest across the Americas offered debate in the matter of justice and equality on behalf of the indigenous people. What is encouraging when considering the impact of the Christian faith is its effects and safeguards it soon worked to impose for the natives. This was a lively debate within the community: that without the work of Christians the desires for conquest would have run roughshod over entire populations. Often, modern critics levy undue criticisms upon Christianity without critiquing the true motivation of the economic expansion. It is true that on every side of the discussion people took up the name of Christ. However, where would any indigenous person find a voice of compassion outside of Christianity? Without the call for universal brotherhood and love for one’s neighbor, empires would still advance, the weaker nations would be conquered, slavery would remain a mainstay of society. What the faith offered, which was on bold display during this time, was lively social debate about morality and justice that continues to this day to work its way into the fabric of our cultures. Bartolome de las Casas and his Dominican brothers stirred up the hearts and minds of people with truth and love and bravely did their part in obedience to Christ. Their words still resonate today as the work of justice continues, especially in South America among Catholic theologians.

I believe it is important that Christians today work toward a balanced view of history. One that understands the ways that Christianity has been both abused and misunderstood by those who laid claim to it, while not forgetting the incredible contributions Christianity has made to the world. We are facing a generation both within and without the church that has retreated from the social success and contributions that Christianity has had and made in favor of an unbalanced focus on its failures. We must continue to remember the men and women who worked for justice in the name of Jesus for all people lest we forget and, in turn, fail to hold onto the liberties their work has afforded us.

HIS 800 AGTS

Notes:

¹ I do not wish to imply that modern ethics are superior to the Apostolic writers. However, when we consider the surrounding culture, I believe ours has had the benefit of having had time to intertwine and digest the NT writings, thus benefiting from them in ways time had not allowed their contemporaries.

² I do not think “ours” i.e. modern Christendom, is fully developed. I had originally used the word “dark” in lieu of “different”, however, upon further meditation concluded different to be a better understanding factoring areas where we may have digressed.

³ The difference has major implications for either pre-dispensation or liberation theology.

⁴ These views were not racist. That would have been too blatant not to recognize. They simply highlighted the events and main characters from a southern perspective.

The Jesus Way vs. The American Way

2011-10-10T09:46:00.000-05:00

The Jesus Way vs. The American Way: Eugene Peterson thinks Jesus as the truth gets far more attention than Jesus as the way.

Worth sharing:

Here is a text, words spoken by Jesus, that keeps this in clear focus: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6) The Jesus way wedded to the Jesus truth brings about the Jesus life. We can’t proclaim the Jesus truth but then do it any old way we like. Nor can we follow the Jesus way without speaking the Jesus truth.

But Jesus as the truth gets far more attention than Jesus as the way. Jesus as the way is the most frequently evaded metaphor among the Christians with whom I have worked for fifty years as a North American pastor. In the text that Jesus sets before us so clearly and definitively, way comes first. We cannot skip the way of Jesus in our hurry to get to the truth of Jesus as he is worshiped and proclaimed. The way of Jesus is the way that we practice and come to understand the truth of Jesus, living Jesus in our homes and workplaces, with our friends and family.

A Christian congregation, the church in your neighborhood, has always been the primary location for getting this way andtruth and life of Jesus believed and embodied in the places and among the people with whom we most have to do day in and day out. There is more to the church than this local congregation. There is the church continuous through the centuries, our fathers and mothers who continue to influence and teach us. There is the church spread throughout the world, communities that we are in touch with through prayer and suffering and mission. There is the church invisible, dimensions and instances of the Spirit’s work that we know nothing about. There is the church triumphant, that “great cloud of witnesses” who continue to surround us (Heb. 12:1). But the local congregation is the place where we get all of this integrated and practiced in the immediate circumstances and among the men, women, and children we live with. This is where it becomes local and personal.

The local congregation is the place and community for listening to and obeying Christ’s commands, for inviting people to consider and respond to Jesus’ invitation, “Follow me,” a place and community for worshipping God. It is the place and community where we are baptized into a Trinitarian identity and go on to mature “to the measure of the full stature of Christ” (Eph. 4:13), where we can be taught the Scriptures and learn to discern the ways that we follow Jesus, the Way.

The local congregation is the primary place for dealing with the particulars and people we live with. As created and sustained by the Holy Spirit, it is insistently local and personal. Unfortunately, the more popular American church strategies in respect to congregation are not friendly to the local and the personal. The American way with its penchant for catchy slogans and stirring visions denigrates the local, and its programmatic ways of dealing with people erode the personal, replacing intimacies with functions. The North American church at present is conspicuous for replacing the Jesus way with the American Way. For Christians who are serious about following Jesus by understanding and pursuing the ways that Jesus is the Way, this deconstruction of the Christian congregation is particularly distressing and a looming distraction from the Way of Jesus.

A Christian congregation is a company of praying men and women who gather, usually on Sundays, for worship, who then go into the world as salt and light. God’s Holy Spirit calls and forms this people. God means to do something with us, and he means to do it in community. We are in on what God is doing, and we are in on it together.

And here is how we are in on it: we become present to what God intends to do with and for us through worship, become present to the God who is present to us. The operating biblical metaphor regarding worship is sacrifice — we bring ourselves to the altar and let God do with us what he will. We bring ourselves to the Eucharistic table and enter into that grand fourfold shape of the liturgy that shapes us: taking, blessing, breaking, giving — the life of Jesus taken and blessed, broken and distributed. That Eucharistic life now shapes our lives as we give ourselves, Christ in us, to be taken, blessed, broken, and distributed in lives of witness and service, justice and healing.

But that is not the American way. The great American innovation in congregation is to turn it into a consumer enterprise. We Americans have developed a culture of acquisition, an economy that is dependent on wanting more,requiring more. We have a huge advertising industry designed to stir up appetites we didn’t even know we had. We are insatiable.

It didn’t take long for some of our Christian brothers and sisters to develop consumer congregations. If we have a nation of consumers, obviously the quickest and most effective way to get them into our congregations is to identify what they want and offer it to them, satisfy their fantasies, promise them the moon, recast the gospel in consumer terms: entertainment, satisfaction, excitement, adventure, problem solving, whatever. This is the language we Americans grew up on, the language we understand. We are the world’s champion consumers, so why shouldn’t we have state-of-the-art consumer churches?

Given the conditions prevailing in our culture, this is the best and most effective way that has ever been devised for gathering large and prosperous congregations. Americans lead the world in showing how to do it. There is only one thing wrong: this is not the way in which God brings us into conformity with the life of Jesus and sets us on the way of Jesus’ salvation. This is not the way in which we become less and Jesus becomes more. This is not the way in which our sacrificed lives become available to others in justice and service. The cultivation of consumer spirituality is the antithesis of a sacrificial, “deny yourself” congregation. A consumer church is an antichrist church.

We can’t gather a God-fearing, God-worshipping congregation by cultivating a consumer-pleasing, commodity-oriented congregation. When we do, the wheels start falling off the wagon. And they are falling off the wagon. We can’t suppress the Jesus way in order to sell the Jesus truth. The Jesus way and the Jesus truth must be congruent. Only when the Jesus way is organically joined with the Jesus truth do we get the Jesus life.

.: Myths and Facts in the Middle East

2011-10-08T12:57:00.000-05:00

Recently during our Mid-Week study time I was asked to comment on the Middle East and Palestinian in particular. Not being qualified to speak on the subject I thought it better to refer to Dr. Charlie Self, this link will take you to his blog for insightful information on the Middle East.

.: Myths and Facts in the Middle East

Positive and negative facets of the Protestant Reformation

2011-10-07T23:30:00.001-05:00

This is paper I just finished for a class, thought I would share it here in case anyone was interested in reformation history. I have not been blogging much lately so this will have to count. While I would have preferred to put more into this idea, I was under a time restraint combined with a page limit. Hopefully it will still be a good point for discussion. Footnotes have been added at the bottom and contain a number of additional ideas not found in the text. Comments for discusion are welcomed, have a great day!

In the whirlwind of cultural change that was the sixteenth century, Gutenberg pressed out a indelible stamp on history. It has been said that reform was inevitable but surely the process was fast tracked by invention.

By this innovation one early and positive spring flower of the sixteenth century was general access to both the words of Christ and diverse proclamations of the academia among the masses.

Post Luther’s ninety-five thesis, this access sparked a new found liberty and interest in interpretation that would lead to an all out explosion. While Luther was more devoted to church structure than many give him credit for, many of his ideas and the ideas of his fellow reformers would lead to expanded individuality in all things spiritual.

Luther believed in, and would tirelessly advocate, the radical idea that the authority of individual conscience bound by scripture stood over and above the authority of the church councils and weight of tradition.

The early reformers would advocate for a reliance on scripture to interpret itself and inform the church of its practices, championing a formula that proclaimed anything that is not in the bible is not acceptable Christian doctrine or practice.

While they owed a debt to both Augustine and Origen’s principles of biblical exegesis, and may have been propelled in this direction by Erasmus, they stirred sharply away from both tradition and the allegorical method.

Thus creating the two positive points of the reformation to be considered in this paper: the reformed hermeneutical approach and the rise of individual freedoms, which is derived from the latter.

Some may see this as simply a positive and in many ways it was, but it would come with the high cost of unity and arguably it eventually questioned the very authority of the bible itself.

It is easy for the decedents of the reformation to overlook history prior to Luther and assume change was impossible without the drastic measures taken by the reformers. But not all theology flowed down from Rome. The church had been undergoing both the process and processing of theology within itself from its inception.

“Erasmus believed that Christians needed to be more aware of where their faith had come from, and Erasmus’s epochal edition of the Greek New Testament, published in 1516, as well as his editions of the church fathers, was intended to hurry this process along.”

Proceeding Erasmus, Hugh of St. Victor followed by Andrew of St. Victor had already begun to take the Roman Catholic church in the direction of interpreting the scripture in a more literal sense.

Historically change did happen even in the areas of theological reform, howbeit this change was not always positive and certainly not preformed expediently.

While this may lead one to believe that given time the Roman Church may have produced sufficient internal reform, matters of hermeneutical theory that formed during the middle ages certainly stood in the way of progress toward a biblical church.

“In the first part of the Middle Ages, scriptural authority was firmly entrenched as the supreme authority in the church. In the latter part of the medieval period, the authority of the pope and the church’s canon lawyers, making pronouncements on behalf of an increasingly corrupt, papal dominated institution.”

It can be said that the revised hermeneutic of the reformers provided spark that started the reformation.

This hermeneutic can be seen as clearly the greatest contribution of the reformers with regards for establishing a zeal to understand the bible in its original context. Luther’s complete break from the allegorical method, followed by subsequent interpreters such as Zwingli, provided people with a better understanding of what Christianity was, in contrast to what it had become.

In addition they challenged the dire proclamation of John Eck that by their actions would leave Christendom with “nothing that is certain or decided” by alternately offering the assurance of what can be defined as “walking” the true path of the Christian faith.

While this can not be considered a return to biblical hermeneutics i.e. those employed by the apostles, considering the fact that the New Testament writers made frequent use of allegorical methods of interpretation with respect to the Old Testament.

The literal approach did further the understanding of the original intent of the New Testament writers so far as their own writing are concerned.

While the New Testament writers themselves allegorized the scripture, allegorizing the allegories only complicated any real understanding and furthered the divide already made present by time and culture.

The hermeneutical approach of the middle ages, combined with what was to follow at the council of trent claimed that “tradition has authority parallel that of scripture”. This combination dealt a unrecoverable blow to the authority of Biblical cannon by putting firmly in the hands of a self serving institution a method that would lead the church away from the scriptures to focus exceedingly on its own tradition. At the council of Trent, which painstakingly followed a great deal of the early Protestant reformation, the Roman Catholic church would declare that “only the church possesses the right to interpret the bible.”

The reformed hermeneutical approach would change all this but would lead to a plurality without end. Its great contribution was the appeal to sola scriptura, its great challenge was any appeal to finality with regards to interpretation. What began as an honest attempt to restore the existing church to a biblical foundation, morphed into a needed correction of the very foundation of faith itself. The reformed church emerged from this battle lacking a mediator or recognized authority in matters of dispute.

Luther was “bound by the scriptures” in the case of the Diet of Worms by virtue of his hermeneutical approach. Following this event he would quickly face others who moved with equal conviction propelling an unforeseeable degree of division and disagreement.

Soon people would have the bible in hand translated to their own language, free from both tradition and the authority of the Roman church. These events and ideologies would become the driving force behind the individuality and liberty that we have today, and it is hard to lack anything but gratitude for them. Even so, the post modern views of truth they spawned and the collapse of a recognizable authority has certainly lead many to feel adrift when searching for the solid ground of truth.

The early practice of the reformers lead them to divide quickly in matters of disagreement and this continued with ferocity until the ecumenical moments that arose during the last century. Once the dam had imploded the division proliferated, now no longer would members work to reconcile their theology or appeal to unity in spite of diversity. Division was the way of least resistance. The church was certainly ripe for reform, the case of Jan Huss makes this clear; most of the early reformers expected to begin this realignment with truth to be internally ingested.

For the political structure parading under the banner of Christianity this would not be the case and there is fair amount of evidence that it could not have been the case. The Roman church had strayed from the prominence of Jesus and muddied the waters of truth absorbing centuries of cultural pollution. The reformers can be credited for cleaning that pollution with the cleansing waters of scripture. If we suffered the loss of an identifiable physical authority to speak on matters of division, we more than made up for it by gaining the individual liberty to be subservient to Sola Scriptura.

¹ William C. Placher (1988). Readings in the History of Christian Theology Volume 2. Philadelphia Pennsylvania: The Westminster Press. 38. ; Jonathan HIll, The History of Christian Thought (Downers Grove, Ill. : InterVarsity Press,2003), 181; 205.

² Justo L. Gonzalez (2010). The Story of Christianity. New York, Ny.: Harper Collins. 14.

³ Mark A. Noll (2000). Turning Points: Decisive Moments in the History of Christianity: Baker Academic. 155; 168-170. Justo L. Gonzalez (1975). A History of Christian Thought: From the Protestant Reformation to the Twentieth Century Volume 3. Nashville, TN. Abingdon Press. 61 As implied later in this paper their theology would also lead to expanded individual liberty in all areas of western culture.

⁴ Ibid Noll. 156 If required in opposition of.

⁵ Hill 191.

⁶ Hill 190-193

⁷ While Luther appeals to the authority of the single christian with the support of scripture the reforms in no way envisioned the extent of individual liberties that would flow from their inspiration. Gonzalez (1975) 61.

⁸ James W. Voelz (1997) What Does This Mean? Principles of Biblical Interpretation in the Post-Modern World. Saint Louis, Mo. Concordia Publishing House 207-216. Luther’s idea of the authority of individual conscience “bound by scripture” takes a drastic turn in post-modern thinking. As expressed by Voelz in chapter 10 of “What does this mean?” Hill 191-192 “The radical Reformers’ belief that every individual could interpret the Bible according to their own experience simply made their own whims the final authority.”

⁹ Hill 190.

¹⁰ Gregg R. Allison (2011). Historical Theology: An Introduction to Christian Doctrine. Grand Rapids Mich. Zondervan 171.

¹¹ Allison 84.

¹² Allison 83.

¹³ Noll 159. Luther’s own account of his transformation was based on a new understanding of scripture.

¹⁴ Johathan Hill (2003). The History of Christian Thought. Downers Grove Ill. Inter-Varsity Press 191. “Luther rejected the allegorical method.”

¹⁵ Noll 155, 172. Hill 186. Not that either Luther or Zwingli made great strides in defining the “path” of the true Christian faith where praxis is concerned, only that they inspired a hermeneutical approach that latter would lead to such. Consider Luther’s own statement “Sin greatly, and repent even more greatly.” It is not as much a question of Luther or any of the reformers personal life as much as the conflict of defining christian life and praxis may have been to challenging while also pioneering new concepts of justification by faith alone. Men like John Bunyan would later help formulate the concepts of the christian life for millions of followers based on the principles biblical exegesis begun by the reformers.

¹⁶ Ricard Longenecker (1975) Biblical Exegesis in the Apostolic Period. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publ. Co. USA. 128 “while 1 Cor. 9:9f. portrays a mild allegorical exegesis such as was undoubtedly part-and-parcel of the apostle’s exegetical equipment, Gal. 4:21-31 may very well represent an extreme form of Palestinian allegorical interpretation.”

¹⁷ Grant R. Osborne (2006) The Hermeneutical Spiral: A Comprehensive Introduction to Biblical Interpretation: Downers Grove Ill. Inter-Varsity Press 24

¹⁸ Osborne 24-25.

¹⁹ Allison 177.

²⁰ Placher 23. From the moment the founding reformers gain a footing free from endangerment by the Roman Catholic church they find that they can not agree with each other.

²¹ Placher 23. From its inception the reformation created division within the body of Christ.

²² This explain the renewed interest in all things Eastern Orthodox. Bradley Nassif. “Will the 21st Be the Orthodox Century? Christianity Today, December 2006.

²³ Gonzalez (1975) 61. “The life and death of Jan Huss herald, in tragic form, the end of the Middle Ages and the great theological project they had nurtured. To Huss and his followers on the eve of the Reformation, the Roman Catholic Church was going the way of the Roman empire.”- Hill 161. It is for reasons such as this that regardless of the high virtues of unity the Roman Catholic churches leadership of the reformation era had shown itself to be an anti-christ and therefor not part of the Church many seek to unify.

What is this Christian Life

2011-10-04T16:26:00.001-05:00

This Christian Life

What is this Christian life? Countless books have been penned on that very subject. Each focusing on various points. I dare not think that I could answer this question with any finality, I only offer up these words of praise and this pledge of faith. If there be any criticism I would gladly bear it for the words written here. This Christian life is the internal transformation, the awaking of our spirit, the marriage of temporal with eternal, humanity with divine. It is salvation by grace and a call to holiness, the only true freedom; found in bondage to Christ. It is a faith that leads us to look for a kingdom that we first find within. These are only a few ways of speaking about this great salvation. What is certain about this Christian life is that it is certainly hard to define. It is life springing from a well that never runs dry. This life of faith is an all encompassing call to give our all to Jesus; to entrust all of our strength, all of our heart and bring every thought subject to Christ and His Kingdom.

I love this faith, the life of Christianity. I may get disturbed by the wolves in sheep’s clothing masquerading as saints. Or the nationalist who use and abuse His name to gain this earthly kingdom, making it difficult to be called a Christian. As the church of Laodicea plays its extended song service here in Babylon, the rich history of His true Kingdom and clear calling of His Holy Spirit leads us past these white washed tombs. Even past the brazen alter of false worship to join with all the saints and share with the master “outside the camp.” Seeing the true splendor of the faith like beautiful vine in the midst of wasteland. The Christian faith has broken through the cracks of history like a sublime rose in the desert, a bright star in the darkest of nights. From Jesus until now, the seed that fell to the ground has spouted love out of season to all who are broken, weary and weighed down.

This Christian life so worthy of praise, is not the religion of conquering kings or vanquishing generals, even while they carry His moniker. This is the faith of nursemaids, monks and servants, peacemakers and prophets. This is the life of those who pray “Where there is hatred, let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. Where there is sadness, joy.” This is the spiritual bloodline of the king who died outside this worlds camp, made up of those who still go outside the camp to bear the disgrace with Him. The disgrace of being different from this world, different by way of love not piousness, disgraced for loving peace more than victory.

What is this Christian life? It is the life of those who clothe the naked, feed the hungry, offer compassion to prisoners and shelter to the oppressed. It is a life found among the unknown meek and the children of surfs unaccustomed to this worlds nobility. The Christian life is a call to completely give our lives to the Kingdom of God and His Christ. To work, pray and seek no other kingdom, no other country, for no other leader to be wholly devoted and to be espoused to one husband - one King; until all that is within us is crying out, Thy Kingdom Come! That beautiful, lovely city His kingdom of peace and righteousness. Let this promised proclamation consume our hearts, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and He will reign forever and ever.” "Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.” This is the joy of this Christian life to have such a great and consuming cause and Kingdom.

I am thankful for having been chosen to be a part of it, and would willing lay down my life for my Kingdom and my King. Let it be understood, let all those with ears hear clearly this Christian life calling. Hear that when we gather as a church we are gathering for the Kingdom. Hear, that the Church is an extension of the Christian life assembled together to preach the gospel of our King. Assembled as a body to pray for the day when the kingdoms of this earth fall and become the Kingdom of the Lamb. When we give of our finances, we are giving to empower the Kingdom. When we come together it is to learn the ways of the Kingdom and turn from the kingdom of darkness. Having acknowledged that we were are strangers and exiles here on earth, we make it clear that we are seeking a homeland. Not thinking of that land from which we have come out of, together we are desiring a better country. Together we pray “thy Kingdom come and thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”

As I write this article, thoughts of our prayer time at church are lingering in my spirit, accompanied by the abiding peace from the joy of His presence. I love that feeling, that place, those moments of this Kingdom life. I pray and earnestly contend that we move not away from this Good News of the Kingdom. That no other message or Kingdom have sway over your hearts. There is only one Good News, only one King.

What is this Christian life? It is an eternal well of living water springing up with all glorious joy. It is beauty from ashes, strength from fear. It is mourning turned to gladness and peace rising from despair, it is all this and more! For this cause I bow my knees to the King of Kings and pledge all that I am to none other but He. It is Jesus who has given me life and life more abundantly! This Christian life, this is living!

Consider these scripture references for further contemplation take time to reflect on the following: Matthew 5:11, 6:10, 25:31-46, Romans 6:15-20, Revelation 11:15, Hebrews 11:13-16, 13:13-14, Isaiah 55:1-2, 61:1-3, 1 Corinthians 1:26, John 12:24, Galatians 1:8, 3:28.

swiming on the deep end.

2011-07-15T11:32:00.002-05:00

How much time in our life do we spend asking the deep questions? Searching out the core meaning of who we are, what we believe, how shall we live. To often most of our lives are tethered to activities we scarcely believe in. Most of our time is filled with events that have little meaning, moments once past quickly forgotten. For many people life is moving from one distraction to another, never committing the time or the courage to ask the deep questions. Abraham Heschel writes, "For religion is more than a creed or an ideology and cannot be understood when detached from acts and events. It comes to light in moments when one's soul is shaken with unmitigated concern about the meaning of all meaning, about one's ultimate commitment which is integrated with one's very existence; in moments when all foregone conclusions, all life-stifling trivialities are suspended." In our culture individuals lack of loyalty is considered a current crisis. I believe this steams from peoples lack of awareness to purpose. How little time most people spend contemplating life, purpose and meaning. How rare it is that one's "ultimate meaning becomes integrated with one's very existence." Most are concerned only with craving, "what am I craving now?" People chase after the temporary and in so doing miss the eternal. I want to encourage you to do something, spend real time in your life asking deep questions. Questions that make you uneasy, that make you think and wrestle. Do not be afraid of knowing what you believe.

Comments carried over from facebook.com / Blind Guides

2011-06-22T10:10:00.000-05:00

There is a call for "Christians" to "go after" NBC over the pledge of allegiance. This note is in response to that.
Christian can not force others to be Christian, (we have tried in the past). Neither will we convert anyone by demanding that others act or imply a faith they do not have. Millions of people in this country no longer look to Jesus when life becomes to much, because of the loud, arrogant, Un-Christlike demands of people who claim to be Christian. They turn to other forms of spirituality that have kept themselves out of the political culture war. Christianity has become a political party and a demanding group of self-righteous Pharisees. They do not care if anyone turns to Jesus, so long as they can live in some idealized version of America. They refuse to turn the other cheek, love their enemies, do unto others as they would have done to them. To imply that others should fear because they cross the line of Christians? An implication I have seen in reference to this! They turn their backs on everything the Cross teaches us. Atheist are not the problem in this country, anymore than Rome was the problem in Jerusalem the blind are leading the blind down the road of hate and not peace. People will not become Christian or even want to, because we attempt to make them bend to our will. When we lash out in hate demanding our values be respected we send them home with animosity. As we continue to act that way, the animosity grows and soon others realize that more people dislike Christians than like them. That is happening right now look around and it will not change with more demands or attitude it will change when Christians act like Jesus. Until that day others will grow in their resentment, toward those who call themselves Christian. I am more concerned with the fact that those who call themselves Christian and represent my faith in public have no idea how to act like Jesus, than I am about any pledge on NBC. If anyone thinks what I am saying is not in keeping with Christianity read Matthew 23, Jesus did not speak harshly to the broken sinners of his day. He spoke to the broken religious body that should have done more to represent God to people. Blind guides who strain a gnat and swallow a camel.

"Let them eat tanks" an article by Ben Cohen and thoughts from someone who likes his ice cream!

2011-05-19T15:31:00.019-05:00

Below is an article that appeared in sojourners magazine this month about deficit spending. This is not a topic I talk a lot about but I was very impressed with Ben Cohen's illustrations. The Pentagons budget is something people do not think a lot about when they are talking about deficit cuts. (Something I have heard a lot about lately.) I am glad to see the tea party movement join in this call to cut to spending to the Pentagon. Often times when you talk about cutting Pentagon spending, people assume you are talking about cutting pay for soldiers, they do not realize that there is a lot of money wasted that could be cut and never touch income for soldiers. In an effort to keep discussions of their budget off the table, the Pentagon has done a fabulous sales job making the very thought of cuts "un-American." It should be noted that because most soldiers are in the low to middle income bracket, cutting social programs like "WIC" while maintaining the outrages Pentagon budget directly effects and hurts the families of those soldiers. The BB illustration about nuclear weapons alone is worth your time reading this article. If anyone thinks that Jesus or his followers should support the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, we are somehow reading two different bibles.
On a personal note:
The Mount Pleasant correction facility has cut back on training people to allow admittance into the prison. Our Thursday night ministry group is currently short a few people but we can not get them the required training to join. So, the three of us who are left, are handling the services alone right now. Pray for a change to this situation. It is not something that any of us are complaining about, but I am concerned. If something where to happen and as time passes there will not be anyone left to take our place. The government is not actively seeking ministers to show love and share Christ with prisoners. If because of federal cut backs prison continue to not provide the training required for people gain admittance there will come a day when there are no minister with access to the prison. This is just one example of the real cost of cuts. I personally would rather have people sharing forgiveness and mercy to prisoners than another nuclear weapon. I would rather have a lot of things than more war machines. I would rather feed children, house the elderly, fix our decrypt infrastructure and the list could go on and on, any of these things would be better than building another weapon.

By posting this article I am not supporting any political group, to my knowledge neither party is considering cutting the Pentagon's budget. Probably because people are not talking about it like they should. Most people focus on "safety net programs" not realizing that those programs only make up about 14% of U.S. budget. Imagine spending two times what you make every month and than thinking you could fix the problem by canceling your gym membership. As a Christian, I believe we should inform society of practices that best reflect Christ likeness. That is what this post is attempting to do. I do not want to see good programs that are not the problem get cut in the name balanced budget. But I would not mind seeing bad programs cut in order to maintain the good ones! Amen :)

I hope this inspires you as it did me. Peace be with us!

Jim Wallis: Why should you, a successful businessperson, be worried about the military budget? Why did this become such a life mission for you?

Ben Cohen: It was the same spirit that led Ben & Jerry's to work to improve the quality of life in the communities that we're a part of. There are things a business can do to integrate concerns for social justice and people who are being oppressed, but there are also things that only a country can do.
When I was working through Ben & Jerry's, it was clear that even big businesses, even huge foundations that have gobs of money, pale in comparison to how much money the federal government has. To restructure the edifice that creates injustice and poverty, you really need to look at the federal budget. That's where there's enough money to solve all these problems, without raising taxes, just by moving some money around. So that’s how I got to that point.

Wallis: How did you first become aware of how much money we're talking about and what that could mean for everything else?

Cohen: Part of it was getting just the vaguest idea of how much $1 billion is. You hear numbers such as 500 million, a billion, 500 billion, and they're all more than you can ever imagine. As Ben & Jerry's became a $100 million business and then a $300 million business, I began to understand how much that really is. Three times that is still less than $1 billion. It is shocking to me that we now spend $700 billion a year on the Pentagon budget. When I first started working on this issue a decade or so ago, the Pentagon budget was about half that amount.

Wallis: How do you help people visualize a number that large?

Cohen: There are two demonstrations I've done that have been incredibly popular. One is the BB demonstration and the other is the Oreo demonstration. The BB demonstration was shown to me by Sen. Alan Cranston of California. He used it to demonstrate the size of the U.S. nuclear arsenal. He would drop one BB into a container to represent the 15 kiloton bomb that went off over Hiroshima. Then he would drop in 60 BBs to represent enough nuclear weapons to blow up all of Russia. Then he would say, "And now I want to show the number of BBs that represent the U.S. nuclear arsenal," and he would pour in 10,000 BBs, and the noise just went on forever. It was so clearly illogical and irrational, and so clearly a waste, not just of money, but of our spirits and our soul -- in the same way that Martin Luther King Jr. warned that a nation that continues to spend more money on military defense than on programs of social uplift is approaching spiritual death.
Spending money on unnecessary weapons is taking away from our schools and hospitals and housing, and taking away the hopes of our children and the genius of our times. It's just amazing to think about the huge expenditures of money on these unneeded weapons and what could be done with that same amount of money, if we used it to actually help people, especially people in poverty.

Wallis: Tell me about the Oreo demonstration.

Cohen: That's a demonstration I developed on my own. It makes it easier to understand the federal budget. One Oreo represents $10 billion. The $700 billion Pentagon budget is just a stack of 70 Oreos -- you can understand 70 Oreos. In comparison to that, the federal government spends just four-and-a-half Oreos on education, just one-half an Oreo on alternative energy, and a fraction of an Oreo on Head Start. If you take just seven Oreos off the Pentagon budget, you could provide health care for all the kids who currently don't have it. You could provide Head Start for all the kids who need it. You could eliminate our need for Mideast oil through energy efficiency. You could change our country into one that cares about people, eliminates poverty, and helps people climb their way out, through education.

Wallis: You mentioned Dr. King's comment about a nation that makes these choices being on the path to spiritual death. Are there spiritual roots to your concern about military spending?

Cohen: It's definitely a spiritual issue, as far as I'm concerned. My life is interconnected with the lives of everybody else. When people are suffering, I’m suffering. The thing that motivates me is the understanding that there is no lack of resources. We do have enough money. I've been inspired by a quote from Teilhard de Chardin, who wrote, "The day will come when, after harnessing space, the winds, the tides, gravitation, we shall harness for God the energies of love. And, on that day, for the second time in the history of the world, [humanity] will have discovered fire."
I believe that we can create Martin Luther King's beloved community. And the thing that just drives me crazy is that we have enough money. We're just spending it in the wrong places.
The military budget grew to half of what it is now during the Cold War, based on the idea that the Soviet Union was spending more than we were, so we were in this neck-and-neck arms race. We had a peer competitor; there were two superpowers. We thought that they were out to get us, so we needed to spend as much as the Soviet Union.
Today, there is no peer competitor. There is no other superpower, and we are spending more than five times as much as the next country that's not an ally. And that country is China, our biggest trading partner; we're not about to go to war with China. And yet we continue to spend this ridiculous sum of money for weapons that we plan never to use.

Wallis: How did you bring these issues into the last presidential campaign?

Cohen: We were trying to encourage presidential candidates to take a stand against militarism, to take a stand in favor of shifting money out of the Pentagon budget and into social needs. We did that by educating people in Iowa and New Hampshire about how the federal budget was spent. We didn't really need to do much convincing.
The huge majority of the population is not aware of how the federal budget is split up, and they're not aware of how much other countries spend on their military compared to us. In a recent poll, 16 percent of people thought that less than 20 percent of the budget goes to the Pentagon, and 64 percent of the people thought that military spending was less than half the budget -- it's actually around 58 percent, not even including the costs of past wars or foreign military aid. The Pentagon happens to be the biggest-ticket item in the entire discretionary budget.
Once you give them that information, you don't need to do anything else. They come to the conclusion themselves that we should shift money out of the Pentagon and put it into stuff that people need today, like better schools.

Wallis: You've done incredible work educating people about this issue. You've convinced people of this pretty readily, but you've had a tougher time with the politicians.

Cohen: That's exactly right. Politicians are deathly afraid of being accused of being "weak on defense." They regard that as political suicide. But the reality is that we are muscle-bound on defense. The reality is that it's our excessive military spending that’s creating the deficit that we have. That's what's making our country uncompetitive economically, because so much of government spending goes into building weapons instead of into creating things that people really need.

Wallis: It really isn't about "defense" anymore, is it?

Cohen: No, it's definitely not about defense. I called it the "military budget" or the "Pentagon budget"; it's definitely not the "defense budget." The huge majority of the money that's being spent is not being spent to defend the United States -- it's being spent to prepare to fight wars of aggression against countries that have not done anything to us. The United States has an ocean on each side that prevents countries from coming and attacking us, and we've got two good allies on the north and south. There's no country that has the ability to attack the U.S.

Wallis: How does the fact that we're engaged in two major wars, and now a third, in Muslim nations affect the politics of military spending?

Cohen: When you take into account the size of the military budgets of our opposition in Iraq, Afghanistan, and now in Libya, they're virtually nothing. They’re way under $10 billion a year. If what we're concerned about is terrorists -- they're spending a lot less than $1 billion a year. So these huge Pentagon expenditures of $700 billion and more, it’s like trying to take an aircraft carrier to hunt down one terrorist. It's overkill.

Wallis: The Pentagon-related think tank The Rand Corporation put together a pie chart with statistics on how, historically, terrorism has been defeated. One big chunk, 40 percent, involved police tactics, intelligence, preventing things from happening. Another 43 percent involved reaching a political settlement, such as in Northern Ireland. In 10 percent of cases, terrorists win. And only 7 percent of the time has terrorism been defeated by military solutions. So why are we investing all our money in the 7 percent solution? What's driving all this, if it isn't our legitimate defense needs?

Cohen: No, it's definitely not our legitimate defense needs. It comes down to the military-industrial-congressional complex. You’ve got the Pentagon that is run by people whose careers depend upon getting a certain weapon system built, and they are always lobbying Congress to fund these weapon systems. The standard operating procedure is to do what's called "political engineering." Political engineering means to spread out the production of a weapons system across as many congressional districts as possible, so if there's a threat of cutting that weapon system, the majority of members of Congress hear howls of resistance from the people in their districts that have jobs making those weapons. And then you've got the weapons manufacturers themselves that are lobbying Congress to provide more funding, and providing campaign contributions to pressure them, in a form of legalized bribery, to keep the money rolling in from Congress.

Wallis: You told me recently that you thought that we now have the second biggest opportunity ever to really challenge military spending. The first was the end of the Cold War, with the "peace dividend" that never really happened. In fact, we've doubled the Pentagon budget since the end of the Cold War. But you think now might be an opportune time.

Cohen: Absolutely, because of the deficit. Because people are starting to understand that we can't continue to run up all these unpaid bills. When you start looking at where the government spends the money, and you start trying to find places to cut to bring the deficit under control, you realize that over half of all discretionary government spending is the Pentagon. If you're going to start bringing the budget under control, you can't just be fiddling around the margins; you've got to deal with the really big-ticket items. The bipartisan deficit commission came up with $100 billion a year worth of obsolete, unneeded Cold War-era weapons systems that do not need to be built.
The whole time I was running the campaign to cut Pentagon spending, we were desperately trying to make the campaign bipartisan, but we couldn't find any Republicans that would get on board. Now, the campaign to cut Pentagon spending is being led by Republicans. A lot of the people that got elected as part of the tea party have been fighting to cut Pentagon spending. It's logical. You can’t avoid cutting the Pentagon when you take a look at how the federal government spends its money. So you've got tea parties and libertarians speaking out in a very loud voice about how the Pentagon should be cut.

Wallis: Where are you finding support for your efforts?

Cohen: I think that religious people are likely supporters. They're the people that make so much sense to be on this bandwagon because this is what the Bible and Jesus is all about.

Wallis: We do have these scriptures about beating our swords into plowshares and our spears into pruning hooks.

Cohen: It's unbelievable that politicians give all this lip service about how religious they are, but when it comes to putting their money where their mouth is, they don't do it. People talk about the needs of children and education and hunger and poverty, but there's very little money that they ever come up with. On the other side, there's very little talk about the Pentagon budget. It's not really a subject of conversation. And yet that's where all the money is going.

Christian Nation? Sure I am for it.

2011-04-26T13:59:00.003-05:00

To be a Christian Nation, means to do more then give preference to Christian practices. It means that a society must work to conduct itself according to the teachings of Jesus. If people are hungry we would feed them, if naked we cloth them. If you have two coats and your brother had none give him one of yours. It would mean that we would forgive our enemies and do unto others as we want done to us. If people are sick we would do all we can to see them healed. Like the good Samaritan if we found someone suffering we would take our time and resources to see them cared for. Because everyone is our neighbor regardless of what ethnic group they come from. Jesus never forced anyone to believe in him, he presented his message and loved those who became his followers and those who did not. He was kind, he was compassionate, he did not care what people thought of him when the unlovable rejects of society loved him.
All of these practices are expected of us as individual followers of Jesus (like it or not) and therefore as a community which calls itself Christian. If the church would make the effort to work toward a society founded upon the teaching of Jesus our culture and therefore our nation would be on its way to being a Christian nation. Not because someone prayed before a football game, but because people acted upon the teachings of Jesus. For many people who call themselves Christian, this would be opposite of what they expect or want from their country. They have the right to that point of view, but the fact is those are the teachings of Jesus. He said it best when he asked, "So why do you keep calling me ‘Lord, Lord!’ when you don’t do what I say?" How can we call him God if we do not believe his teachings are acceptable ways to live in society? If everyone who called themselves Christian started following the teachings of Jesus, loving people, showing mercy to people, calling for compassion and forgiveness, imagine the impact it would have. Or just imagine the impact it would have if the people who refuse to do any of those things stop calling themselves Christians.
Do you want to live in a Christian nation? Start supporting things that are in agreement with the teachings of Jesus. Start living your life according to the teachings of Jesus and encouraging, not demanding others to do the same. Be the change you want to see in the world.
:) think about it.

Things Hoped For

2011-04-22T10:39:00.005-05:00

Things Hoped For

I took part in a memorial today for a friend that I greatly appreciated. We shared a characteristic seldom seen, a belief in hope: the greater the challenge, the deeper the pain, the more reason to give birth to things hoped for. In the face of disappointment or in the days of suffering, faith is grown not abandoned. The Buddha said, “life is suffering” and in some ways he was right but that is not reason to give up on faith. It is a reason for it. I have seen in the face of pain rare souls that by grace trended toward hope not away from it. Truly the wide road leads many to turn to despair, anger, disappointment so many are on it, but the narrow gate shines with ludicrous hope.

We are all faced with this life's suffering and pain. No one,especially Jesus, was exempt. In times of uncertainty and confusion, the wide road leads people to side with the philosopher who said, “if there is a god, he must be the devil.” Pain is often seen as grounds for an accusation against God. Convinced things could be better, they hold a trial not just of deity- but of hope itself. When finished deconstructing God, (for reasons of their own disappointment, they conclude that God is not there or worse still that he does not care or is evil),the angry skeptic is left without hope. If the suffering of this world is all there is? If God should be on trial for evil, for sickness or for death? If for having not stopped the suffering or for not having answered us in our requests? If it is for these reasons we abandon hope in God, hope in the Kingdom not yet come then we are left with a void, we are “of all men most miserable.”Knowing in our heart what could be, bound by the curse mortality.

But we are not without hope. It is the knowing in our hearts the foretaste of what could be, of what will be, that is the mark of hope. The sign of eternity is that there is a vision of “a kingdom hoped for, yet not seen.” As the teacher of Ecclesiastes says, “God has put eternity in the hearts of man.” We know deep down it was not supposed to be this way. We were created for a kingdom of light... we must be sojourning in a kingdom of darkness. In our pain we are not subject to despair rather we are growing in the evidence of hope.

In Hebrews there is a list of our fellow travelers, people who looked for something better, something not found. “All these people died still believing what God had promised them. They did not receive what was promised, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it. They agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth. Obviously people who say such things are looking forward to a country they can call their own. If they had longed for the country they came from, they could have gone back. But they were looking for a better place, a heavenly homeland. That is why God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.” Hebrews 11:13-16

I prayed with my friend that the Kingdom of God would break into the now and healing would happen. And while we waited we did not give up hope. The Kingdom of God is real, it is just now and not yet, it is here in us but it is also still hoped for.

Some think faith in God is a weakness, for people who need a crutch. They forget that when we tell stories of heroes there is no honor in surrender, no strength in the solider who lays down and stops fighting. What hero ever said in their heart “this is all there is, there is no hope.” The hero is the one who in the face of great pain, temporary defeat and personal suffering holds out hope, rallies the soul, holds on to dreams, grows in character, never giving up Hope! “maybe not today... but one day the sun is going to shine, the kingdom is going to come, the nations of this world will become the kingdom of the Lamb!” One day,

“What we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later.” For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s curse. But with eager hope, the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay. For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. And we believers also groan, even though we have the Holy Spirit within us as a foretaste of future glory, for we long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us our full rights as his adopted children, including the new bodies he has promised us. We were given this hope when we were saved. (If we already have something, we don’t need to hope for it. But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.) Romans 8:18-24

Suffering and pain is not reason for defeat, not a time to call into the question the mission of the kingdom. It is a calling to hope, hope that this is still not the Kingdom, there is only a foretaste a mere shadow of what will come. So we keep looking, keep praying, keep believing we keep hoping for city whose builder and maker is God. And because of pain we say with the Spirit and the bride.....your Kingdom come! Let the poor be glad, the sick be healed, the blind see, the captives set free these are things worth have hope for. I was with my friend when she died and it never gave me thought to give up hope, it gave me one more reason to hold on to it.

more on mercy

2011-01-25T17:00:00.000-06:00

It does not matter who you are
It does not matter what you have done
It does not matter what you are doing
or what you will do
or how good you will become
or how great you think you are
what others think of you
what you will achieve
for yourself or for others or even for God
God is forgiving you in the present
God is giving mercy new every morning
God is streaming grace in ways you will never understand
God is love beyond your experience
Grace is an ocean of Life
-c. clay

How can we reconcile the grace of God with the teaching that true salvation is found in walking the path of Jesus?

Simple, this is the path this is the example of Jesus. His path was forgiveness, imprinted on this earth with every step. Jesus is giving out grace with force, like an uncapped river overflowing on all sides. In all of His being He was grace to the sinner and healing to the broken. And He is pouring this into us; in quality and quantity of mercy, grace and forgiveness. He is filling us, as overflowing vessels, meant to flood the earth. It goes into the world through us and into us, even when we resist. Forgiveness so abundant it can never fully experience an uncapped limitless flood of mercy and grace groaning in the souls of His own until they can learn to release. Even then there is always a supply beyond understanding.

Walking the path of Jesus is more about forgiveness and mercy then any contrived posturing of mans righteousness. We would find more holiness in one ounce of mercy than an ocean of ritual. Forgiveness and mercy express the beauty of God, painting the black stain of evil and sin a brilliant white. If there is an answer for the philosophical question of evil none better than the creation of a canvas for mercy. Join Jesus in his display of grace to those who have sinned against you, with the substance of unbound grace that God has given you. Embrace, with the weakness of the broken and the heartbeat of Christ, and say “neither do I.” Bathe in the ocean of His grace like children, inviting all others in to that party!

Let this mantra be on your lips; forgive everyone, of everything, all the time.

great sermon!

2011-01-22T21:57:00.000-06:00

Wanted to share this wonderful sermon by Tony Campolo. "If I had it to do over again"

Books of Influence

2010-12-20T14:18:00.002-06:00

A friend recently asked what was the best book I read this year? It was “Judaism in the Second Temple Period” by David Flusser. The question prompted this list of great books in Christianity. It is not in any particular order, other than the order they came to mind. It is also not an exhaustive list, I am sure I will think of something else the moment I post. However, hopefully this list will expose others to some great works. This is my list of books that have personally influenced my life and theology. If you have any questions feel free to post them, if you have any personal favorites post those as well. Remember this is not a list of the best books of Christian history. This is a list of my personal favorites and those that most influenced me. After I started making this list I decided to limit it to only the books I would consider very influential. By saying they are influential I do not mean to imply that I agreed with them all, that would be difficult considering that some of these authors are in disagreement with each other. We do not have to be in complete agreement with something or someone to be influenced by them, I will leave it at that. I also limited this book to Christian writing and would add several other books to the most influential list otherwise. And before anyone points out that I did not list the Bible, that is a given.

The way in is the way on by John Wimber

A collection of essays and sermons. Clear, direct, refreshing, Christianity!

A Theology of the New Testament by George Eldon Ladd

The most influential American theologian of the past thirty years. You may not have read Ladd, but if you read new release Christian books by people like Chan, Oberbrunner, Wimber, or Platt, than you have exposure to Ladd. He was the most influential theologian at Fuller Seminary and Fuller has shaped American Christianity.

Knowing God by J. I. Packer

I know a number of people put this book on their personal list. I find that interesting considering how many over look his views on statues and pictures. That should stir a few people to go read it, or re-read it, which ever the case.

“Cost of Discipleship” by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Life changing! I stumbled onto this book and later found out it has been life changing for many people.

A Theology of Liberation by Gustavo Gutierrez

This book is not widely accepted but its influence on the world is monumental. It would be easy to find criticism of Gutierrez, all I can say to that is to read Gutierrez before you critique him. I think most people get second hand knowledge which is jumbled up with other writers on the same subject.

Outcry in the Barrio by Freddie Garcia

I love this book!

God and the Philosophers Thomas V. Morris

This is a collection of essays.

The Little Flowers of St. Francis by Raphael Brown

No Compromise: The Life Story of Keith Green by David Hazard

Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster

There are a number of books for people who may have just become a Christian, this is not one of them. But I think it should be, it gives an outline for the life of Christianity. The day to day actions that make for the good life.

Freedom of Simplicity Richard Foster

Foster expands on the topic of simplicity and gives a great historical overview.

Evangelical Theology Karl Barth

Eternity in their Hearts Don Richardson

The implications of this work can shift ones world view.

The Three Battlegrounds by Francis Frangipane

Francis writes from a biblical worldview without apology so common in Christian writers of our day. We need more people like him.

Renewal Theology by J. Rodman Williams

Williams does theology with the bible in hand unconcerned about the philosophers and their questions.

The Journals of John Wesley by John Wesley

The Holy Spirit and Power by John Wesley

Century of the Holy Spirit by Vinson Synan

Synan does more the write history he connects the ideas.

A History of Christian Thought by Justo L. Gonzalez

My favorite book of Christian history.

He Is There and He Is Not Silent by Francis A. Schaeffer

Letters and Papers from Prison by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

I had a much larger list and as I said many more will come to mind, but for now this will work. What are your thoughts? How many of these books have you read? Feel free to put together your own list and post it.

Grid of Jesus Part 1

2010-11-30T19:21:00.002-06:00

Grid of Jesus Part 1 from FCC of Washington on Vimeo.

November 28th 2010 FCC of Washington, Iowa. The Grid of Jesus Part 1, Colton Clay. Find out more about FCC at coltonclay.com.

Just Forgive

2010-11-24T17:48:00.000-06:00

This was not last weeks sermon, honestly I was not at all crazy about the presentation of last weeks sermon. So it may never get put online. I will have to work on forgiving myself....so instead I have post this nice reminder and maybe for you as well, "if need be" to just forgive. This one was pulled out of the archives but I still have the notes of this sermon and will edit them and post before the week is up (Lord willing).
It is nice to see a few more people join the blog, my facebook post worked! Now we just have to step out and start conversing with each other. Here is a great place to start post a comment, an idea or question or just say "I was here"! With the internet taking up more of our lives and so many people getting lost in cyberspace we need to find ways to use this wonderful media to stay connect and not allow it to disconnect us.
I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Just Forgive

2010-11-24T17:39:00.000-06:00

Just Forgive from FCC of Washington on Vimeo.
What if we forgave everyone, everything, everytime?

video from Vimeo

2010-11-16T17:45:00.001-06:00

freedom from the worlds most dangerous drug from FCC of Washington on Vimeo.
if you are new to FCC this is a good place to start. Message from Novermeber 14th 2010.

This is the message I was referring to in this post:

from Sunday November 14th.

2010-11-16T16:20:00.000-06:00

Following up on the “worlds most dangerous drug”

Some FYI information connected to this sundays sermon.

The reason I choose to relate money to a drug.

Unfortunately far too often, we see many people struggling with addictions. If you are a person of self improvement and personal growth you have faced personal addiction in your own life. Take food for example, it is probably one of the more common addictions. If you are confused about the term “addiction” here, try taking your self off all sugar for a week and you will see what I mean.

Addictions are driving motivations that attach themselves to our core and hold us hostage to fulfill their needs. Money is a common driving motivation that holds people hostage to abundant living as they spend their life chasing after it. Money addictions exhibit all the characteristics of a drug. This analogy allows us to identify this culprit in our lives.

How do you know if you are an addict?

Check your motives! What are the main factors that move you forward in the day? What do you day dream about? Imagine your world in an ideal state, how central is money to that dream? Do you spend time each day dreaming about life with more money?

But that is normal, right?

It may be normal by the definition of common, but that does not make it right for you. Consider the day dream of life with more money, how does this money come about? Did you get it from your action and work or are you day dreaming simply about more money? It may mean you lack a fulfillment in your daily practices of work, family or spiritual life. This is “not always” a clear sign that we are living for money. Hopefully we are living for the Kingdom of God.

What does freedom look like?

Because so many live for manna (money) it is hard sometimes to actualize life any other way. Our dreams are a great place to consider understanding life free from the clutches of money. Those who live their life for the Kingdom of God have purpose far great than wealth accumulation. Therefore dreams are connected to their life’s work, their family development, the furthering of the gospel via what channel they are a part of. Someone may serve the Kingdom through ministry to the oppressed and dream of the day of liberation. Some may serve the Kingdom through uniting broken relationships and dream of the day of unity. Others may be ministers of the good news and dream of a great awaking. Regardless of what their life in the Kingdom is, their hopes and dreams are developed by the Holy Spirit. Motives should be based on a passion for the Kingdom of Heaven. This is what freedom looks like!

So, Wealth Accumulation is not on the list?

Correct! It is not on the list of good reasons to live your life. That includes rephrasing it into “I am working for a good retirement,” or even “I just want to leave my children something.” It is your life, your chains to carry, you have to decide. Just remember you can not live for both money and God.

This message is online at Vimeo and my website www.coltonclay.com

May you experience the love of Christ!

Colton Clay

Casting a wide net

2010-11-16T14:52:00.000-06:00

A Thank You.

2010-11-12T10:18:00.000-06:00

Thank you to every person who has ever stepped out and shared their faith with someone else. Some of you have endured persecution and even slow horrible deaths. Most of you faced rejection, some of you reaped the reward of seeing God’s grace manifested. All of you are connected from one person to the next, back to Jesus himself who links the eternal family together. Across every shore, nation, tribe and tongue you heard the call, “who shall go for us?” and answered “here am I, send me.” You did not take for granted that someone else will tell them: from Paul who set out across the oceans, circuit riders who rode across the harsh plains, missionaries who ventured into deep dark jungles to students who walked across the cafeteria, you served your Lord.
This Sunday most of us will take for granted that so many have given so much. They will act as if church was always there and always will be, and the only cost for the bible they own was the price tag they paid for it. Someone will even think this world would be better off without you. But I won’t. I remember what it was like to be lost. I remember the emptiness of my life before I heard of the love of Jesus. I know who I owe my freedom to- the one who died at Calvary and the countless servants who paid the price so that I may hear the words that gave me life. So today I will say, thank you. And remind you that one day when we stand on that shore we will be thankful more than ever before! But I wonder how much we will regret that we did not share it with just one more.- Colton Clay

Current books, worth recommending.

2010-11-04T11:32:00.003-05:00

Current books, worth recommending.

“Judaism of the Second Temple Period” by David Flusser
This is not light reading but I know many of you enjoy more academic writing. It is a collection of essays by Flusser, some far more interesting then others. Over all very interesting and a great starting point if you are interested in the Apocalyptic literature leading up to Jesus.

“Radical” by David Platt
I have already spent a lot time recommending this book. If you attend church on a regular basis and that sums up your religion...read this book.

“The Big Book of Christian Mysticism” by Carl McColman
I bought this book on my Kindle and therefore was not sure how big it really was, you would think I would not have been surprised that it is a long book. I mean really what clues could I possibly of had? But do not let that scare you off, this is a great book. I highly recommend this to everyone. Although people are afraid of the term “mysticism” I personally consider this to be rooted in the purest form of the Christian faith.

Writers Block ='s No Blog

2010-10-11T11:21:00.001-05:00

I have been struggling with writers block for over a month! Even my sermon notes have been affected. Not sure why, prayer life has been good I have still been reading and certainly not had a shortage of ideas. It is difficult to put ideas on paper, can we still even say that? What will the new term be, put our ideas into the cloud, can we then say we are cloud seeding? I think my biggest problem has been my life long struggle with grammar and spelling. Something I must eventually get past and just put it out there, I can not spell (the check helps) my grammar is poor but you get the point! The internet has been encouraging, even I have been able to spot glaring mistakes online made by professional writers. In a society that expects instant news there is very little time to check for errors, but like you I do not mind so long as the content is correct. So with that confession I will try to blog more. And if anyone is still reading I am looking for an assistant (of sorts). With the proliferation of the cloud I have begun to use Google docs, which allows online documents to be shared and edited. If you are interested in helping in this area email me. I can allow access to my online docs for instant editing!

How to be a Pastor 101

2010-09-04T13:28:00.000-05:00

If you care about you job, you tell people what they want to hear.
If you care about the people, you tell people what they need to hear.
Keep in mind, people most often need to hear something they do not want to hear.
But....there is always a loop hole!
Tell people the hard to hear, hard to say things, about people who do not go to your church.
That way people will say, “he says the things people do not want to hear but need to!” But fail to mention or notice you never says those things that need to be said to the people in the room.

Christian Flag Code

2010-07-22T09:21:00.000-05:00

Personally I can not even imagine questioning the placing of Christian Flag in the highest place of honor. Originally I never gave it much thought but when it was pointed out that "right of the speaker was the place of honor" I had no doubt which flag went there.

The following is from the Christian Flag Code

1. When the Christian flag is on the floor level, the Christian flag is placed to the right, front, of the congregation and outside of the communion railing.
2. When the Christian flag is placed within the chancel, communion railing or choir loft, the Christian flag is placed to the right side of the altar, of the clergymen, and of the choir as they face the congregation.
3. When the Christian flag is displayed with the American flag and/or other flags:
* The American flag and/or other flags may be placed symmetrically on the opposite side of the sanctuary and on the same level as the Christian flag.
* If desired, it is also proper to place the Christian and national flags side-by-side wherever stationed in the church, thus symbolizing both the spiritual and patriotic loyalties of the congregation.
* When the flags are placed side-by-side, the Christian flag is always stationed on the right of all other flags.
* The Christian flag never dips to any other flag. It may properly dip to the altar Cross.

Bold statement

2010-07-20T09:07:00.000-05:00

"God is not just forgiving sins and in doing so making available eternal life, but that he is also actively desiring to fix what is broken in the world."

I wanted to share this statement, it has far reaching implications for our faith and actions. Once a person becomes a Christian they become a part of that mission to fix what is broken in this world. God fixes us, we join him in fixing this world.

inheriting a country

2010-07-04T18:24:00.002-05:00

Galatians 5: 26 For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes. 28 There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And now that you belong to Christ, you are the true children of Abraham. You are his heirs, and God’s promise to Abraham belongs to you.

We are heirs to the promise, God made a promise to Abraham that from his seed would come a great nation.

Hebrews 11: 8 It was by faith that Abraham obeyed when God called him to leave home and go to another land that God would give him as his inheritance. He went without knowing where he was going. 9 And even when he reached the land God promised him, he lived there by faith—for he was like a foreigner, living in tents. And so did Isaac and Jacob, who inherited the same promise. 10 Abraham was confidently looking forward to a city with eternal foundations, a city designed and built by God.
11 It was by faith that even Sarah was able to have a child, though she was barren and was too old. She believed that God would keep his promise. 12 And so a whole nation came from this one man who was as good as dead—a nation with so many people that, like the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore, there is no way to count them.
13 All these people died still believing what God had promised them. They did not receive what was promised, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it. They agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth. 14 Obviously people who say such things are looking forward to a country they can call their own. 15 If they had longed for the country they came from, they could have gone back. 16 But they were looking for a better place, a heavenly homeland. That is why God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.

Abraham and his family looked for a nation verse 12, therefore he was a foreigner a nomad here on earth. Longing for a country he could call his own, that is why God was not ashamed to be called their God.

Hebrews 12: 28 Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe.

The seed that Abraham was looking for was Jesus, the kingdom was one he would build.

John 18:36 Jesus answered, "My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world."

Once Jesus died for us he rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into his kingdom.

Colossians 1: 12-13
12 always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light. 13 For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son,

Praise God now our citizenship is in heaven.

Philippians 3:20
20 But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior.

So how should we live on this earth?

1 Peter 2:11
11 Dear friends, I warn you as “temporary residents and foreigners” to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls.

I see, I am a temporary resident and foreigner who citizenship is with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! All nations of this earth will bow before him! His throne will reign forever an everlasting kingdom with no end! And by his mercy I have been made a partaker in the Kingdom of Light.

Revelation 1:9 I, John, am your brother and your partner in suffering and in God's Kingdom and in the patient endurance to which Jesus calls us.

We are partners in the Kingdom together, that is why we preach the Kingdom of God is at hand, and pray "Father, your kingdom come!"

Praise be to God! I AM NOT ASHAMED TO SAY I LOVE MY COUNTRY!

Jesus is the Way (July Messenger with added thoughts)

2010-07-01T10:55:00.000-05:00

Jesus is the way, as much as he is the truth. We need to grasp both parts of this to find true salvation. It is not uncommon for people to accept the truth “of Jesus” and not the “way of Jesus”. When we accept the truth of Jesus, we acknowledge that he lived, that he is the Son of God. We accept the idea that if we believe these things we are saved. When we die we believe that we will go to heaven as a result of this acceptance of ideology concerning who Jesus was, we have made verbal agreement to his claim of deity.

Before his death Jesus said, And you know the way to where I am going.” “No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:4-6

Jesus tells them they “know the way” because he “was and is” that way. Because of what they have seen in Jesus they now had the path to Father. Jesus was more then a truth to be believed in, his life was a blueprint to be lived a path to follow. By believing in him and his ways rather then their own they found salvation for their souls.

There are many “believers of the truth” that honestly do not consider devotion to the path of Jesus part of the way to the Father. This is a glaring omission to what salvation truly is, as taught by Jesus. They have traded the truth of Jesus “life” for the lie that simply “saying I believe” in who he is will save them. They proceed beyond that verbal claim to continue their own path in life, never transforming their life into his. To put it in biblical terms they “never bear fruit” a tree that never bears fruit is dead. If you are in Christ you will bear much fruit. It is as simple as that, without fruit you are not in Christ. Unless you are “in the way” of life you are not in the “way” at all. This is why “believers in the truth who omit the way” can be such vicious wolves within the church. Never being convicted of their poisons tongue, having no problem with lip service to God while hating and despising their brother or sister. They consider it simply part of their nature to some extent, their right, to be full of hate, gossip, bitterness. Why should they be concerned, they “believe that Jesus is God” all is forgiven. They have forgotten that whosoever they lend their members to, that is who they are a servant to. They do not know the way of peace. Or as John would say, “they never knew the way of peace.” They do not know the way of truth and forgiveness. They are clouds without water, they are wolves in sheep’s clothing, they are twice dead. Do these words shock you are they to heavy for our ears? They are all words of our bible the word of life for those who receive it and walk in it. Before Jesus ever asked his disciples to believe "in" him, he called them to follow him. It was his intention that they come to an understanding of who he was by having their eyes opened as a result of his life. This vision, an opening of the theirs eyes, had to happen this way because they had such varying views of what the "christ" would be like. When we see Jesus as "the way" of salvation we see what salvation truly is. When someone sees only the theology of believe they can loose sight of all that salvation is, and to often recreate Jesus on their own terms. Having "faith" in the his deity they go about our lives on their own terms never discovering the path to freedom.

I can tell you truthfully how to get to Canada, I can look on a map and give the clear correct instructions of how to get there. Therefore, I know the truth about the way to get to Canada. But if never get on the road and drive in that direction I will never actually get there. Many people know the road signs to the Father, they know Jesus as the true way, but they are not on the road. Are you?

John Wimber - My Personal Pilgrimage (1)

2010-06-24T10:43:00.000-05:00

Break up your heart

2010-06-08T10:10:00.000-05:00

“Plow up the hard ground of your hearts!
Do not waste your good seed among thorns." Jeremiah 4:3

I love this verse.

the oxen in our life.

2010-06-02T16:19:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 14:4 ESV
4 Where there are no oxen, the manger is clean,
but abundant crops come by the strength of the ox.

To quote one of the youth from our church, this is "deep end". Life is never neat and orderly. The wisdom of this verse is found in creating our perspective - how we see the things, the people, the actions we take in life. With so many things in life we can look at some negative effect it/they may produce. Take children for example; a lot of people think they are too loud, they are to messy and therefore they are not worth it. But others will see the joy they bring, the chance to see them change, the love they bring, the connection of love. When we see children from this perspective we understand this harvest of life could not be brought in without them. The same could be said for any family member or several other relationships. At times, and with the wrong perspective, they may seem to cost more then they are worth. When cleaning up the manger we think, "why do I even put up this this?" But, when bringing in the harvest, we know this part of life could not be experienced without them. There are so many things in our life that sometimes we need to remind ourselves regardless of what mess they leave in the manger. We would not have as abundant life without them.

The Epistle of Diognetus

2010-06-02T10:10:00.000-05:00

The Epistle of Diognetus is not a household book. It was written sometime between 120 - 200 A.D. and the writer obviously had copies of Corinthians and other biblical sources on hand. You can hear Paul reflected in this section. I think it still speaks to us today and worth reading. Enjoy. If you are interested click on the the link to read the full book.

CHAPTER 5
5:1 For Christians are not distinguished from the
rest of mankind either in locality or in speech or in
customs.
5:2 For they dwell not somewhere in cities of their
own, neither do they use some different language, nor
practice an extraordinary kind of life.
5:3 Nor again do they possess any invention
discovered by any intelligence or study of ingenious
men, nor are they masters of any human dogma as some
are.
5:4 But while they dwell in cities of Greeks and
barbarians as the lot of each is cast, and follow the
native customs in dress and food and the other
arrangements of life, yet the constitution of their
own citizenship, which they set forth, is marvelous,
and confessedly contradicts expectation.
5:5 They dwell in their own countries, but only as
sojourners; they bear their share in all things as
citizens, and they endure all hardships as strangers.
Every foreign country is a fatherland to them, and
every fatherland is foreign.
5:6 They marry like all other men and they beget
children; but they do not cast away their offspring.
5:7 They have their meals in common, but not their
wives.
5:8 They find themselves in the flesh, and yet they
live not after the flesh.
5:9 Their existence is on earth, but their
citizenship is in heaven.
5:10 They obey the established laws, and they
surpass the laws in their own lives.
5:11 They love all men, and they are persecuted by
all.
5:12 They are ignored, and yet they are condemned.
They are put to death, and yet they are endued with
life.
5:13 They are in beggary, and yet they make many
rich. They are in want of all things, and yet they
abound in all things.
5:14 They are dishonored, and yet they are
glorified in their dishonor. They are evil spoken of,
and yet they are vindicated.
5:15 They are reviled, and they bless; they are
insulted, and they respect.
5:16 Doing good they are punished as evil-doers;
being punished they rejoice, as if they were thereby
quickened by life.
5:17 War is waged against them as aliens by the
Jews, and persecution is carried on against them by
the Greeks, and yet those that hate them cannot tell
the reason of their hostility.

This is our End

2010-05-05T23:04:00.002-05:00

hope love and peace
happiness truth and friendship
honor love and life
great joy
resurrection
gladness, mercy
honesty healing
fulfillment
how great is our God
how wonderful His love
life is good
eternity
we will always be
we will always live
millions of years from now we will still be known
we can not die
we will change
life will change
and be good
full of beauty wonder amazement
we will not age
we will not hurt
never sad
never lonely
never in need
the universe will be open to exploration
there will be creation that we have never seen
never imagined
what do we have to fear
why do we worry
this is our fate
this is reality
our tomorrow
the way the universe works
He can never fail
never lie
will always be
will always rule
will always love
hope love peace
happiness truth friendship
honor love
life
greatest joy
resurrection
mercy honesty healing
fulfillment
how great is our God
why fear
this is our end.

April 18th Small Group Starts

2010-04-02T13:14:00.001-05:00

April 18th New Small Group 4:00 PM will meet only once a month.

FAQ

What is this group about?
We will learn about sharing the Good News. Basically the who, what, when, where and how to share Jesus with others. Then we will share the Good News (this is the fun part) Then will will meet again to talk having shared the Good News and encourage and strengthen each other.
BTW this was the Jesus method of teaching His disciples.

What makes it different?
We will do what we talk about! Each small group will begin with a lesson, our first meeting will include the concepts of the class and then an assignment to share with someone. You will have a month between meetings so do not worry if you are really wanting to share your faith in a month God will give you an opportunity to do it. Here is the good part, this group will be a support group. When we meet each time after our first meeting we will share experiences and encourage one another.

Who is this for?
Anyone ready to do what the bible talks about. You do not have to be an expert in theology or even have been a christian for twenty years. You just have to have been born again and want to see other people born again. You have to want to do this, do not do it out of obligation or guilt, this is for people who want to see the lost come home.

What this is not...
This will not be another "theory" group. We will have one rule, If you have not shared your faith do not share your theory.
This will not be "shotgun" evangelism. You will not be out knocking on doors with no leading of the Spirit. Disclaimer: If you are however lead to knock on doors then do so.
We will begin by learning about biblical methods of evangelism and how they apply to our cultural when doing evangelism. It will draw from ways that have actually been done, not theorized and the primarily the Biblical methods. After we learn and do we will support one another in ways we are doing from month to month.

What this will be...
Challenging, because you will be out doing what so many have spent so many years learning about but not doing.
Rewarding, the truth is average"church life" is boring and frustrating. It consist of a few people analyzing each others level of goodness and playing politics. It seldom gets out of the "temple" to encounter and impact a broken world. If you think about it, for most people their "christian" life has more in common with a term in House of Representatives then the life of the disciples. That is was not Jesus plan for your life He has something better for you.

Jesus said..Go these signs will Follow.
He did not say "Go and sit on a pew and listen to sermon in my name."
He said "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone."

If you are ready to do that this small group is for you.

Vision, Faith and the Future

2010-03-25T13:02:00.000-05:00

Vision, Faith and the Future

Prov 29:18
Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint,
but blessed is he who keeps the law. (ESV)

Vision from God is His divine plan given to the human race. Vision from God is required if we are to posses abundant life. The good news is that the Holy Spirit is always speaking to the church we just have to attend ourselves to His word. As John tells us "Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches.” Rev 2:7
What is vision like? What are its characteristics?

Being a visionary is part of walking by faith. Abraham, the Father of those who have faith, was a great visionary. He left his home and country to follow a dream. He looked ahead to a city built by God. Throughout his life he was moving onwards, reaching towards the future. Yet much of his vision was never fulfilled in his lifetime. It was much later that his descendants actually become as the stars for multitude. Then much later nations grew out of his ‘faith’ descendants. They are now in the process of ‘inheriting the world’ (Romans 4:13).

Vision makes us look to the future. It is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see (Hebrews 11:1). Faith takes a promise still to be fulfilled in the future and obtains such conviction about it that its substance, or deposit becomes tangible and real to the present. Faith is inextricably linked to
promise. Where ‘the promise is worthless’ ‘faith has no value’ (Romans 4:14). Therefore faith and Vision are always tied together. Many people make the mistake of interlinking their concept of “faith” with the past. It could be said their faith is in past events in long gone “better days.” Their spiritual faith is cultivated on the notion that the best days have past and that their faithful life's work is to restore those days. This faith lacks vision and biblical faith like that of Hebrews chapter 11. Vision looks forward in faith that God through Christ will fulfill the coming Kingdom. The work of Christ on the Cross was complete to fulfill all salvation and our faith is in His work alone. But we have faith that because of His work we will inherit future glory! Look closely at Rom 8:18 “Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later. 19 For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. 20 Against its will, all creation was subjected to God's curse. But with eager hope, 21 the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God's children in glorious freedom from death and decay. 22 For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23 And we believers also groan, even though we have the Holy Spirit within us as a foretaste of future glory, for we long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us our full rights as his adopted children, including the new bodies he has promised us. 24 We were given this hope when we were saved. (If we already have something, we don't need to hope for it. 25 But if we look forward to something we don't yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.) NLT

Vision and faith link together with the kingdom of God, the primary theme of biblical revelation. Vision takes us out of the present and enables us by faith to grasp the future. Without vision we are lifeless without vision what do we hope for? God has greater plans for us, plans for our eternal and plans for what the Spirit is saying to the church in these days. We are not by faith holding on to the past attempting to recreate former days. We are by faith moving forward with the vision to establish the Kingdom. These principles have real impact on how we live our lives and how we worship. May God shine upon like the morning sun announcing a great new day.

Notes from Mid-Week Part One "Word in You"

2010-03-18T12:17:00.000-05:00

Romans 4:3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.

Galatians 3:6 Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.

James 2:23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.

James 2: 23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God.

1 Oh, foolish Galatians! Who has cast an evil spell on you? (casting a spell like a prophetic word or utterance.) For the meaning of Jesus Christ’s death was made as clear to you as if you had seen a picture of his death on the cross. 2 Let me ask you this one question: Did you receive the Holy Spirit by obeying the law of Moses? Of course not! You received the Spirit because you believed the message you heard about Christ. 3 How foolish can you be? After starting your Christian lives in the Spirit, why are you now trying to become perfect by your own human effort? 4 Have you experienced so much for nothing? Surely it was not in vain, was it?
5 I ask you again, does God give you the Holy Spirit and work miracles among you because you obey the law? Of course not! It is because you believe the message you heard about Christ. 6 In the same way, “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” 7 The real children of Abraham, then, are those who put their faith in God.
8 What’s more, the Scriptures looked forward to this time when God would declare the Gentiles to be righteous because of their faith. God proclaimed this good news to Abraham long ago when he said, “All nations will be blessed through you.” 9 So all who put their faith in Christ share the same blessing Abraham received because of his faith. Galatians 3:1-9

The receiving/accepting of God's word as truth over the word of all others ignites salvation.

Foundation knowledge.

1.Saying you believe something and actually believing it to action are two separate things. This is the core point of the book of James and the concept of faith/works that people struggle with.
James did not contradict Paul, both had received their words from the Holy Spirit.
James point is that if you really have faith it will result in manifested action = Real faith manifest a new creation as opposed to verbal acknowledgment. Like Jesus saying, “by their fruit you shall know them. The fruit does not make the tree, the tree makes the fruit. Good trees make good fruit bad trees make bad fruit. You are made a good tree by Jesus, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” Philippians 1:6 So continuing with James and even Paul (Romans and Galatians) Yes, Abraham believed and that belief manifested in change/response. Or as Paul would say it, Abraham believed and it made him righteous. Once made righteous he did what righteous people do, he produced good fruit.

2.People do not believe in contradiction to their actions. Or, “by their Fruit you shall know them.” It is also by your fruit that you know yourself. You respond according to what or who you are, good tree = good fruit bad tree = bad fruit. The Fruit of your life is the result of your belief = the word in you.
Matthew 12:34 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.

Good trees / Bad trees
15 “Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves. 16 You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. Can you pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? 17 A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. 18 A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. 19 So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. 20 Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions. 21 “Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. 22 On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’ 23 But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’ Matthew 7: 15 – 23 NLT
Does this equate to salvation by works? By saying a person must produce good works to be saved?
No, Jesus says a good tree will produce not has to produce. Biblical salvation is the creation of a new creature.
2 Cor 5:17
17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

Meaning: at one time, prior to salvation you were not the “new” person you are now.

John 3:3, 3:6
3 Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God." 6 “Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life.”

Meaning: verse three, in order to enter the Kingdom rule of God you must become a new person. Verse six, this is not something humanly possible and not rebirth in the manner of human birth. This is a spiritual birth but non-less real and non-less a completely new creation.

1 Cor 6:9-11

9 Don't you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don't fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, 10 or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God. 11 Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

Meaning: We were bad trees, but we have been recreated and replanted as a good tree by the work of the Holy Spirit. Another illustration Jesus will use is “the vine and the branches” also repeated by Paul.

John 15:1-8
15 "I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. 3 You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. 5 "Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. 6 Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. 7 But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! 8 When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.

Living Spirits?

2010-03-01T18:13:00.001-06:00

Living Spirits?
In light of recent deaths I have spent sometime reflecting on the subject. Often times I think of one of the more obscure verse in the Bible “let the dead bury the dead.”
Consider this “you are dead in your trespasses and sins.” It does not say you are apart from God or that you are not going to heaven “when” you die, it says you ARE dead. It is as if when God told Adam you will surely die when you eat the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, he did.
Maybe we are not alive at all, it could be that we are the dead looking for life. Until the light comes in and we find or “taste” life. A “foretaste” of what is truly real. However, because this body is corrupted and cannot inherent (receive) eternal life it is not a completed event. The event is completed when this corruptible puts on incorruptible. It is only then that we are told death is swallowed up in victory. The act of laying down this body and we receive a living incorruptible body.
Is my spirit alive and carrying a dead body?
If a lame man was healed and threw out his wheel chair would you celebrate?
What about when living spirit throws throws off this dead body for life? Can we feel the same way?
Comments encouraged

March

2010-03-01T18:12:00.001-06:00

“Keys to a Healthy Church”
This past month our midweek bible study has focused on the “Keys to a healthy Church.” The concept of “Keys” is similar to “purpose” and make up a threefold foundation of why we do the ministries we do, how we do them and what we seek to develop in our lives and others. I have said on several occasions this is not merely for information purposes, what we are learning together should produce fruit. Meaning these foundational “keys” should create our praxis of theology. What we believe creates who we are, what we do, how we act and react. It is a biblical idea that regardless of what a person says, it is what they do that expresses their true belief system. (Matthew 12:34)
The goal of teaching the “keys to a healthy church” is to express God's biblical design for His body, that after hearing the word we receive it and embrace transformation. When this happens we are transformed individually and corporately from glory to glory. (2 Corinthians 3:18) These truths, the “keys to a healthy church,” are currently at work in us producing fruit. Our goal now is that they increase as we commit ourselves and grow in our understanding. “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” (Romans 12:2 NLT) At this time we have covered four “keys” let's review them here.
Keys to a healthy Church:
First, “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment everything we do and all our goals should be inspired by this principle. (Matthew 22: 37) We are here to express our love to God, we are here to worship Him. We worship God thru obedience, we worship thru praise, we worship thru commitment. A healthy church must be purposeful in all three of these areas.

Second, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22:39 Real love expressed by God is always first and foremost seeking to spread the message of saving grace to all people. From the use of our facilities, funds and our time we should prioritize our actions around effective outreach to our community. Joining with the Holy Spirits leadership will will be focused on reaching Washington, Iowa with the good news of hope and salvation!

Third, no church is healthy without a high view of and willingess to conform to the word of God. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 It is not enough to have the statement “The Holy Bible is the inspired Word of God” in our tenants of faith, we must be willing to submit to the word of God as our guide. As individuals and as a church, we should always be asking ourselves “is this in accordance with God's word?”

Fourth, healthy churches must move beyond having well thought theology into practice. Healthy churches don’t just listen to God’s word. They do what it says. Otherwise, we are only fooling ourselves. (James 1:22) We can say all the right things but that is not enough, we must follow thru and do the right things! That means that we must take these first three keys and consciously and intentionally take action! (2 Peter 1:10)

There are great things on the horizon for this church. I know this because of the desire expressed by so many people here for spiritual renewal. Those that hunger and seek righteousness shall be filled, this is a promise. (Matthew 5:6) Together we can experience God and His manifest blessing if we commit to “His will done here as it is in heaven.” We will not have to travel to some other town or tell stories of past days revivals. We can have the outpouring of God here and now. We need this, for ourselves and our children and for everyone here in Washington.

Cool Website

2009-12-15T15:21:00.004-06:00

This is a cool website with a lot of great videos. Hope you are blessed.
Click on the title of the post "Cool Website"

Wine?

2009-12-01T14:35:00.002-06:00

I did not write this, but I think it is good. I talked about alcoholism Sunday so I thought this was a good time to post this. Have a blessed day and I am sorry I have not post very often lately. I plan to get back into writing more this winter.

Was the wine that Jesus drank the same as wine today?

Q: I have what you may see as an easy question. What was the difference in the wine JESUS and the disciples drank in comparison to what we have today? Was there any difference at all? I am having a tough time witnessing to people about drinking and how GOD doesn’t like it when JESUS is turning water to wine at “gatherings” and drinking with his disciples.
“Gimme” some help on this Pastor.A: There isn’t really much difference between the wine made in Jesus’ day and the wine made today. The process of fermentation FOR WINE is similar. However, after the time of the New Testament the invention of distillation rather than fermentation greatly increased the alcoholic content and made liquor possible. This type of strong drink was not available in Bible times. I’ve attached a PDF file on “wine” from the Zondervan Pictorial Encyclopedia which has some very good information.

Concerning Jesus turning water to wine at the marriage feast, I believe that God DID approve of Jesus’ action. There are a number of references to Jesus drinking wine (examples: Luke 7:34; John 19:29). We know from the writings of the Jewish rabbis and the writings of the early church that the wine used in Passover/communion was one part alcoholic wine to 4 parts water. My understanding of the Bible is that the drinking of wine is acceptable. It is the abuse of alcoholic beverages that is sin. What the Bible speaks against is drunkenness, not drinking.

Q: But how can you drink wine and not feel its affect? People always say “there ain’t nothing wrong w/ drinking as long as you don’t get drunk”, but the truth is even if you only have one glass of wine (not communion wine) you may not be so drunk where you’ll fall over, but it will have some affect on you….right? And won’t that be bad so to speak in GOD’s eyes?

A: Apparently this mild affect of wine isn’t bad in God’s eyes: “God makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for man to cultivate – bringing forth food from the earth: wine that gladdens the heart of man, oil to make his face shine, and bread that sustains his heart.” (Psalm 104:14-15). Note that in this passage “God makes… wine that gladdens the heart.” Wine is viewed as a gift from God.

This discussion of drinking brings up a broader issue that you might want to think about. I think that many Christians have a Greek view rather than a Jewish view of God’s creation. By the time of the New Testament, the Greeks had become very anti-materialistic. The Greeks divided reality into two parts: spirit, which they thought of as good, and matter which they thought of as evil (or at the very least inferior to the spirit). This is why the Greeks sought to free their spirit from the body. The goal of this life was to purify the spirit and free it from matter. As a result, the Greeks (and Romans) burned the person’s body upon death. The material was evil and something to be left behind. And if you really wanted to free your soul, you would avoid bodily pleasures and material things. The ascetic (the person who did without things) was viewed as the most likely to gain happiness in the next life.

The Jews, on the other hand, followed the Old Testament view of seeing the creation as good. God looked at all He had created and said that “it was very good” (Genesis 1:31). Even after the fall, no “thing” is evil in and of itself (1 Timothy 4:4). The Jews had a very upbeat view of material things. The physical body was viewed as something to take with you into the next life – hence, bodies were not burned, but buried to await resurrection (Genesis 15:15; 23:19-20; 25:9; 35:8,19,29; 47:30; John 19:38-42). The Jewish view of sex (in marriage) is very positive (Proverbs 5:18-19; Song of Songs; 1 Corinthians 7:3-5,33-34; Hebrews 13:4). Likewise food, wine, dancing, money, etc. are all viewed as good things that we can take pleasure in as long as they are used according to God’s commandments (Ecclesiastes 5:18-20; 8:15; 9:7-9; Psalm 16:11; Romans 14:14). At the risk of being misunderstood, I believe the Bible teaches a view of “Christian hedonism” – not living for pleasure, but living for God and enjoying all that He has created for our benefit and enjoyment (1 Timothy 4:1-5).

But sometimes Christian views on drinking, sex, or money come more from a Greek perspective than a Biblical perspective. In order to protect ourselves and others or in an attempt to become more holy or pure, we add rules or commandments that aren’t in the Bible. But when we do that (even if we do it for a good motive), we have become legalists, rather than grace-oriented children of God. The Bible is clear that drinking alcoholic beverages (without becoming drunk) is an acceptable activity. In fact, Jesus even chose wine as an element for the Lord’s supper. ONLY drunkenness is viewed as a sin (Proverbs 23:29-35; Ephesians 5:18). We can be tempted to add to God’s commandments, because of the dreadfulness of alcoholism, drunk drivers, or simply observing the stupidity of drunk people. Believe me, I understand the temptation. My college roommate was an alcoholic and I cleaned up his alcoholic vomit on more than one occasion. AND my brother was killed at age 19 by a drunk driver. But we CAN’T try to be more righteous than God! If it isn’t prohibited in the Bible or cannot be reasonably deduced from Biblical principles, then it’s best that we not add to God’s Word.

DL Moody and the Baptism

2009-09-30T11:47:00.000-05:00

Inspiring true story told by RA Torrey.

D. L. Moody was that he had a very definite enduement with power from on High, a very clear and definite baptism with the Holy Ghost. Moody knew he had "the baptism with the Holy Ghost"; he had no doubt about it. In his early days he was a great hustler; he had a tremendous desire to do something, but he had no real power. He worked very largely in the energy of the flesh.

But there were two humble Free Methodist women who used to come over to his meetings in the Y.M.C.A. One was "Auntie Cook" and the other, Mrs. Snow. (I think her name was not Snow at that time.) These two women would come to Mr. Moody at the close of his meetings and say: "We are praying for you." Finally, Mr. Moody became somewhat nettled and said to them one night: "Why are you praying for me? Why don't you pray for the unsaved?" They replied: "We are praying that you may get the power." Mr. Moody did not know what that meant, but he got to thinking about it, and then went to these women and said: "I wish you would tell me what you mean"; and they told him about the definite baptism with the Holy Ghost. Then he asked that he might pray with them and not they merely pray for him.

Auntie Cook once told me of the intense fervor with which Mr. Moody prayed on that occasion. She told me in words that I scarcely dare repeat, though I have never forgotten them. And he not only prayed with them, but he also prayed alone.

Not long after, one day on his way to England, he was walking up Wall Street in New York; (Mr. Moody very seldom told this and I almost hesitate to tell it) and in the midst of the bustle and hurry of that city his prayer was answered; the power of God fell upon him as he walked up the street and he had to hurry off to the house of a friend and ask that he might have a room by himself, and in that room he stayed alone for hours; and the Holy Ghost came upon him, filling his soul with such joy that at last he had to ask God to withhold His hand, lest he die on the spot from very joy. He went out from that place with the power of the Holy Ghost upon him, and when he got to London (partly through the prayers of a bedridden saint in Mr. Lessey's church), the power of God wrought through him mightily in North London, and hundreds were added to the churches; and that was what led to his being invited over to the wonderful campaign that followed in later years.

Time and again Mr. Moody would come to me and say: "Torrey, I want you to preach on the baptism with the Holy Ghost." I do not know how many times he asked me to speak on that subject. Once, when I had been invited to preach in the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, New York (invited at Mr. Moody's suggestion; had it not been for his suggestion the invitation would never have been extended to me), just before I started for New York, Mr. Moody drove up to my house and said: "Torrey, they want you to preach at the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church in New York. It is a great big church, cost a million dollars to build it." Then he continued: "Torrey, I just want to ask one thing of you. I want to tell you what to preach about. You will preach that sermon of yours on 'Ten Reasons Why I Believe the Bible to Be the Word of God' and your sermon on 'The Baptism With the Holy Ghost.'"

A time worship

2009-09-30T10:14:00.000-05:00

Come Now is a Time to Worship!

Join us
First Christian Church
welcomes Pastor Dan Paxton
&
The Heartland Vineyard Worship Team

October 25th Sunday Evening 6:30

On another note, I know it has been a long time between blogs. I will try and get that going in the coming days.

Mary or Martha who are you?

2009-08-26T10:00:00.000-05:00

It is all about Jesus

Luke 10: 38 As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. 39 Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. 40 But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.”

41 But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! 42 There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.”

I have known a lot of Martha’s in my life and far too few Mary’s. Worried and upset over all these details and not focused on the person it was all for. Trying to receive a crown for what they have done, they miss out on what He is giving now. Working for the Lord is great and we sure need “laborers in the field.” But for a laborer to be good at what they do, they must be a good listener. Too often we labor in vain on our own plans never listening to Jesus about what He is really all about. Then, like Martha, we wonder why others are not doing what we are doing, even calling out to God “make them get up and help me!”

Your Dinner is not what it is about, it is all about Jesus. Have you been at the feet of Jesus lately? Listening to what He has to say? Have you thrown all your cares and details out and just let Him guide the conversation? Too often, when we think we are listening, but we are really still acting like Martha. We have all these ideas, goals, details and stuff we are doing and we are talking to Jesus about our stuff. Have you ever talked to someone who can only talk about themselves? Think about how that makes you feel? Mary was not talking to Jesus about what she was doing, just listening to Him learning about Him. That is being at the feet of Jesus, have you been there lately?

Like Jesus?

2009-08-11T17:16:00.000-05:00

A little boy came to his mother one day and said, “Mom I want to be like a tight rope walker in the circus.” “Oh no Son!,” his mother protested “that is far too dangerous and you would be gone all the time.” “I did not mean I wanted to actually walk on a rope or travel in the circus,” the boy replied, “I just want to be “like” a tight rope walker.”

I have heard “I want to be like Jesus,” and for years I have said it myself. But when we say “like,” what do we mean?

What if someone really acted like Jesus?

Consider what we are told about Jesus:

It was never recorded that Jesus asked anyone for money, beyond that, there is no indication He ever even pursued it. He apparently just trusted His father for every meal and everything.

He spoke in parables often with the understanding that His audience would not understand! If that was not enough, He thanked His Father for the fact that they did not understand Him.

He preached about the Kingdom everywhere He went. He never seemed to care about a person’s status in life. He would pass on larger crowds to speak with one person with no reputation.

He spoke openly about sin in peoples’ lives to their face, to those who were in power and those who were not. He also freely forgave people, sometimes when they did not ask for it.

He ate and drank freely with harlots and people of bad reputations. He was accused of being a glutton and alcoholic, a rumor that would end most preachers’ ministries.

He violently confronted those who used religion just to make a profit. He broke temple traditions in public, possibly with that intention.

He laid hands on the sick and healed them, but then told them not to tell anyone.

He said “If anyone comes after me, let him take up his cross and follow me.” When He said this to His disciples they literally “left the nets” and followed Him.

Really....
Literally.....
If Jesus was alive today and acted anything like this, would you follow Him?

Could it be that we do not see everything that Jesus did, because we are afraid to do everything Jesus did?

Changing the way we think about "the Church"

2009-08-05T09:11:00.000-05:00

Few organizations have been the brunt of so much criticism as “the Church”. Often referring to some unseen group of people who basically rub some people the wrong way. Armchair critics let loose in their judgment of any and all people who are “the Church”. Stereotyping is par for the course, separating the good as “accidental,” the “Church” is left only with others' failures. When someone is deemed to be “good” or to have done something “good” we credit that one person for their actions, thereby mentally separating that person from “the Church”. But, if someone makes a mistake or does something wrong then we say that is “the Church”. People classify the “Church” as a small group of people who are judgmental, stuck in their ways, and refuse to show love to anyone but those who please them. Get this in your spirit, THAT IS NOT THE CHURCH! People like that may always attend the building we call “church” but that does not make them the “church”. Understand, mean spirited people who try to control others are everywhere you go. They are in the building we call church and outside it in the “secular” world. Just like all people, short of the miracle of grace, they will stay that way. Defining “the Church” by a few people who go to “church” buildings is not the real way to define Church. Jesus said those that love Me (meaning love Jesus) keep His commandments, the chief of those being “to love God and one another”. He also said, “by this will all people know you are my followers that you love each other”. Follow this logic with me..if Jesus is the founder of “the Church” then Jesus should be the person to determine how His organization is defined. If Jesus defined it by those who obeyed His commandments then logic dictates that “the Church” is all those who keep His commandment to love God and others. Makes sense right? Then why do we say that the Church is a bad thing when it is made up of people who are acting like Jesus? By this definition “the Church” is the most impressive group of people who have ever lived! The Church has fed more hungry people in the world than any other group in history. It has cared for more orphans and widows, comforted more broken hearts, paid more debts and loved more fervently in one day than all the world combined. Beyond all this, the Church has carried the great news of salvation all over the world! The Church is full of the fruits of the Spirit like love, joy and peace. The Church has been the driving force of great adventures as its people have braved new worlds to spread God's love. The Church is still doing all of this today, right now all over the world.
Yes, it is true that every Sunday in buildings we call the church, people gather who do not do any of these things. And it is true that others have used the name “the Church” to spread empires and mistreat people. But that does not make them “the church.” They stole the name because it is such a great one. “They” are just more people who need the love of Jesus to transform them. If someone takes a cheap watch and stamps Rolex on it, does that make it a Rolex? If I changed the emblem on a Yugo and told you it was a Rolls Royce, would it be? Most people agree that this makes sense, but will we change the way we think and therefore the words that come out of us? You should, and for your own spiritual health, you need to. This misguided image is damaging to others and to those who hold on to these misconceptions. It keeps people from experiencing the great beauty that is the Spirit of Truth living on this earth. When we define the Church by people who are not really part of it, we do not see all the good that is going on because of Jesus. We can not find a way to connect with these wonderful people and experience the hope that they share.
The Church is alive and well, full of Hope and Love and still the most beautiful bride on this earth. Add this to your mental dictionary and let it change the way you think. The Church; it is people who love Jesus and others!
“Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.” John 14: 21
And for the record, as much as you may find this hard to believe...the Church still meets in a number of those buildings. Just do not be surprised if others show up as well.

New Videos on Website

2009-07-29T15:45:00.001-05:00

I know my website seldom changes, however! I have finally added some video. These are excerpts of longer sermons that we will have available on DVD.

Living above the realm of the enemy

2009-07-22T11:17:00.000-05:00

Living above the realm of the enemy

The bible cast our enemy as the “accuser of our brethren”. (Rev. 12:10 KJV) An accuser is someone who charges others with fault. By contrast Jesus is a forgiver who does not hold our faults against us when we trust in Him. In the gospel of John this story is record about Jesus faced with accusers of a woman found in adultery.
“Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?” ...“All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?” “No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” (John 8:4,7b,9-11 NLT)
A major focus God has put on my heart for this church has been living with a transformed mind. This is accomplished by allowing the application of the living word to recreate the abundance of your heart. Your thoughts change, motives change, value system changes everything is being made new. This is evident by the words of your mouth. “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. (Mat. 12:34b KJV) What then is the abundance of your heart? Is it dwelling in the camp of the enemy through accusation of fault?
Have you ever claimed to have forgiven someone of a fault, and then went on to share the past wrong with someone else? You are then an accuser of the brethren. You are allowing the enemy a stronghold in your life through never letting go of past wrongs. Once there is a stronghold of the enemy firmly in place your life you are the one who will suffer. The bitterness and resentment eat at you and often people begin to question God, “why did you not defend me?” There are times I have seen this anger and unforgiveness that last years. Still claiming to be innocent and righteous, the accuser plants character destroying seeds of distrust about others at every opportunity.
So what is the way of the transformed mind? How do we live above the realm of our enemy? First, “Have this mind in you that was also in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 2:5 KJV) When Jesus hung on the cross He prayed “Father, forgive them.” (Luke 23:34 NLT) If you do not believe that is possible for anyone other then Jesus consider Stephen. While Stephen was being stoned to death, “He fell to his knees, shouting, “Lord, don’t charge them with this sin!” And with that, he died.” (Acts 7:60 NLT) While he was being stoned to death a painful slow process he asked God not to charge it against them! With a transformed mind we know God is the final judge we can trust in Him.
“And the heavens shall declare his righteousness: for God is judge himself. Selah (Psalm 50:6) God does not need our help in judgment or in accusation. Let go of all wrongs as God forgave you so you forgive others. Hold your tongue of all past wrongs and you will be able to tear down the stronghold of satan.
“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matt. 6: 14-15 NLT)

New Ministries Here at FCC

2009-07-15T11:32:00.003-05:00

There are a few new ministries starting here at FCC. First, the angels prayer ministry which is evolving into an intercessory pray ministry. This is very important part of what God wants to create within this church. The contact person is Betty Benedict, I urge you to contact her to find out more. We also have a group of ladies meeting and creating quilts while getting to know each other better. The contact person is Paula Hartley.
I am encouraged to see so many new ways to connect and strengthen others. I pray that God will bless these efforts.

Saturday July 11th

2009-07-08T10:49:00.001-05:00

This Saturday we are convoying to Ceder Rapids to be in worship at River of Life Church with Darrell Evans. Our group will leave from the church at 4:45 service will start at 6:00. Plan on going this will be a great experience in worship!

My sympathy and prayers

2009-07-07T14:02:00.002-05:00

To all of my family on the Byrns side. Deana, India and I are praying for you at this time. We are praying that with this passing the love of Jesus will be given a time to shine in your hearts. I believe and (I understand this through prayer) while asking God about my grandmother. That she was holding on during this time of physical suffering allowing God to work through past hurts and spiritual needs. Growing up Catholic as she did and most of you have, there is a lot of misinformation that makes death a confusing and always a fearful event. Thankfully the real Jesus is full of grace and mercy and finds us even when we have not been given the most direct path to Him. She was unsure of all the "levels" the requirements the heavy burdens place on her that give no assurance. Had she been good enough? Had she been obedient to the "system" of prayers and penance? In the end Jesus made it clear to her, it was never by works it was always by faith in Him that you are saved. There is no fear when we trust in Jesus, she left her body and by faith entered into heaven. "To be absent from the body is to be present with Christ" not purgatory. It took time to come to this faith, some time with just Jesus, internal healing time. Not because she was so far from God but because sometimes we can be made so confused about God. It is hard to leave behind the legalism that the "church" had wanted to make us a part of. But in the end I have faith and assurance from prayer that He made it all clear. She was able to let go and just trust He is more willing to catch us then we have ever been told.
Have faith in Him that you will see her again. Not just to see her, but because a God this great is worth having faith in and wanting to know.
Be made whole and release the pain of grief. Our love and prayers.
Colton

The Codex Sinaticus Online

2009-07-07T13:54:00.001-05:00

This is an interesting site for anyone interested in original language study. The Codex Sinaticus is the oldest biblical text known in the world and it has now been put online. Enjoy
http://www.codex-sinaiticus.net/en/

False Christianity

2009-07-04T17:16:00.002-05:00

False Christianity has deceived millions with a focuses on a set of rules that are chiefly external. It is a religious spirit that lulls a person into a false sense of security. Deceived by piety they have measured themselves not by the Word of God but by their neighbor. They falsely trust in regular church attendance and a good reputation in the community. They often lean on clean speech and self-control from visible worldly passions. Commendable traits, but not very impressive to God.
A religious spirit is often more concerned with Patriotism then true Christianity. Church is merely a part of being a “good” American to which they show an equal amount of dedication too as their local football team. Their Christian faith is simply a part of their families heritage, a small part of their identity. Willing to adhere to several of the churches “goals” for a person . A strong family structure, high work ethic and maintaining good reputation. They become offended by any call to the biblical view of complete surrender to Jesus. Challenge yourself! What place of honor does Jesus hold in your life? What place has He been given in your family? In your church? Who do you serve?

More on Covering

2009-07-02T09:50:00.003-05:00

Covering is a huge subject but keeping love as the main essential of covering and not "man control" keeps the deception out of the subject! I like it that God established the covering and that man walks in that which God has the ultimate control. - Eva Bickhart

That is true we must always be guided by the Holy Spirit who operates in love. I have noticed a dangerous trend of the pendulum of thought. Once it was identified that there had been a misuse of truth. In this case leadership using the covering to have control over others lives to satisfy their own need for power. The pendulum went back so far away from the truth that the focus turned away from Biblical truth. The church was left with leadership only capable of a worldly concept of servant leadership. This happened both in the roles of Pastors and in the role of husband. In the end this lead to a lack of real covering in peoples lives the result was real tragedy, sheep lost for direction and easy pray for the enemy. Consider the average “high church” in America they lack any real leadership. As a result the church is filled with divorce, rebellious teenagers, teen promiscuity and the list goes on. There is no respect for fathers, husbands or Pastors, people only want to hear about the leaders role as servants and not the role of submission. This attitude has created a lot of painful and it is a direct result of the rejection of biblical covering. When we cover one another in love, search the scripture and lend ourselves to prophetic leadership we create clear paths for our lives and those that follow us.

Notes on Covering

2009-07-01T14:19:00.003-05:00

This post are my notes from a class I taught during our midweek meetings. It fits in with what we have been learning lately so I decided to post them. Although it does not have a lot of extra information other then the texts used, by following the scripture you can gain an understanding of covering in the body. Your comments or questions are welcomed.

We are set in the body.

1 Corinthians 12: 18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.

But now God has placed the members, each one of them, in the body, just as He desired.

Everyone has a place in the body. Every person is important, consider any ecosystem and how each part needs another part to function. The church works the same way.

1 Corinthians 12
14 For the body is not one member, but many.
15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
19 And if they were all one member, where were the body?
20 But now are they many members, yet but one body.
21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honorable, upon these we bestow more abundant honor; and our unsightly parts have more abundant comeliness.
24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honor to that part which lacked.
25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it.
27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healing, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?
30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

Ephesians 4:
4: There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.
Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.
(Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?
He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

The body of Christ was created to bring us to the image of Christ.

Ephesians 4:
Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ:
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplies, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, makes an increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

There is a misunderstanding that because Jesus is the head of every believer then there is no covering or line of authority in the church. If that is the case then Paul had no grounds to instruct believers in his day. He did so base on His apostleship.

We are thinking in the carnal mind when we resist people who love us and try to instruct us in the way of Christ.

Consider Hebrews 13:16-18
16 But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
17 Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.

We are not only spiritually enabled by the body of Christ we are physically emotionally upheld. When we yield to the Holy Spirit who places us in His desired place in the body we find the strength for Christ-like living.

1 Corinthians 12:26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it.
This is the image of the body working as God intended to bring us closer to Christ.
Acts 2: 40 And with many other words he solemnly testified and kept on exhorting them, saying, "Be saved from this perverse generation!"
41 So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls.
42 They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
43 Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles.
44 And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common;
45 and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need.
46 Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart,
47 praising God and having favor with all the people And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.
Revival had come to the Church and you see how the Holy Spirit directed everyone to care for each other.

James 5:16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
NASB 5: 16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.

Emotional support = This depicts a body of trust and desire to see people grow.

Romans 12:3-5 (King James Version)
3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:
5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
We are not in a competition or should and truly Godly person want to control or exploit.
However, when God calls a person to their office they must serve it as one serving the Lord and not man.
1 Peter 5
1 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:
2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;
3 Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being examples to the flock.
4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fades not away.
5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resist the proud, and gives grace to the humble.

This calling to be in subjection to Christ and then each other as a body working under a spiritual “covering” is against the will of our flesh.
But imagine the true image of the Body working as one under the headship of Christ.
Trusted source for spiritual direction, being released to minister and do your part. The body becomes an instrument of healing, physical and emotional.
The term covering has been used a lot in the church lately as a form of control. There is leadership, offices needed to keep organization and allow everyone to work together. Their calling is to keep out the “wolves” and care for the “lambs”. Nurture people, love people, and guide people.
Everyone from apostle to layperson (if there is such a thing) is apart of the body. In Christ we are all subject to each other in love! The apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers are subject to Christ and to others because Jesus style leadership is serving. Although they make themselves servants to others by God's will they serve them through leadership!

If everyone did their part.

Not if every one did there part on their committee, but if everyone allowed the gifts that God gave them to be used in the Body of Christ.

People who could be evangelists (not the kind that go from church to church exhorting) true evangelists people who go into the field and seeks the lost.

Care givers giving care, people of great faith encouraging, the older women teaching the younger woman and men doing the same.

Teachers teaching not only in Sunday School but in homes.

Elders giving counsel to younger families.

The Pastor guiding the spiritual direction of the Church.

The church functioning in all the gifts of the Spirit for the empowerment of all believers!

This image of the Bride is incredible, my prayer is that we will submit ourselves to the vision of biblical covering.

Eva Bickhart now has a blog site

2009-07-01T10:32:00.001-05:00

This is Eva's new blog site, she plans on post a number of studies on the topic of covenant theology. I encourage everyone to be a part of this study.

Or not

2009-06-29T12:13:00.002-05:00

Ok..so there was not a part one..but I have two blogs so sometimes I can get confused.

Marriage Retreat part two

2009-06-29T12:13:00.001-05:00

Marriage Retreat went great! I have extra copies of the book "Love and Respect." That was given out at the retreat. If you would like a copy let me know the cost is almost half-price! This is a good book and would be helpful for any couple desiring to grow in the marriage. BTW That should be every couple.

Click here for the Link

2009-06-23T20:05:00.004-05:00

I have mentioned to a few people that I like John Wimber. Here is a great link in youtube of his testimony. It is broke down into 8 sections so it is rather long. However, you can break it into sections, first about how he got saved and the second about how he grew in his ministry.

New Book for Church

2009-06-19T09:12:00.002-05:00

After a lot of consideration and prayer I have finally picked our new book! Bill Hybels Holy Discontent. I do not plan on spending a full service on "Faith Like Potatoes" just making it apart of our up coming mid-week service.
Let me know in the comment section if you plan to purchase this book yourself. I will be ordering some copies for the church soon.

As for "faith like potatoes" I thought it was a perfect example of "first generation faith". He took the word at face value and went with it. We miss out on so much because we refuse to believe the full word. This is a great starting point for our "first generation church" thinking.

I hope to see you this Mid-Week service June 24th 09'
Here is a link to the book Holy Discontent. Also let others know so we can get the word out.

Looking Forward

2009-06-12T10:50:00.002-05:00

I am looking forward to a number of things all while enjoying the day. My Dad is coming to visit for the first time here in Iowa. This Sunday's service should be filled with new people, plus I just love Sunday! I have so much information to teach in the coming months I know it will produce fruit. We are going online! full streaming video! That will allow more people to be apart of what God is doing at FCC. I can go on and on because God is working! Be apart of what is good.

I want to recommend a book "2000 years of Charismatic Christianity" I know I have recommend this before, but I am still not sure everyone is reading it. This book will give you so many starting points to learn from that is what makes it great. Remember, God says SEEK ME. He is calling you to look for Him and learn about Him yourself. So many people sit back and think being a christian is just going to church and being nice to people. Being a Christian is being a person who is seeking God!
Back to looking forward, I am looking forward to finding out more.

Sara has a blog

2009-05-28T11:20:00.002-05:00

Sara Hess has a blog about her up-coming trip to Nicaragua. Take a look and support Sara a young Missions Mind youth from our Church. If you have a blog let me know I would be glad to post your link on this site.

May 27th Mid Week Bible Study

2009-05-28T11:01:00.002-05:00

I thought the Mid-Week service was very good. Great comments and thoughts followed the lesson. My hope is that we will continue to put in practice what God has put in our hearts to accomplish. This Sunday's sermon will continue to address the subject of Joy with an emphasis of practice ways to overcome depression. This is a major issue in our world today and something people are willing to seek out an answer for. Invite someone you know. Try and fill this church not so we can glory in our attendance, rather let us make the effort for the struggling hurting people that hope would help!

Mid-Week Service May 27th

2009-05-26T20:38:00.002-05:00

Make plans to be apart of this service. We will cover the topic of first generation church mindset. I have notes posted here on my blog. This is important teaching, we are laying to foundation for the harvest.

Follow this Blog

2009-05-26T20:31:00.001-05:00

If you read this Blog feel free to join. Knowing who is reading will help me direct the content. Thank You!

Wesley Brainard

2009-05-26T20:19:00.002-05:00

Together with Roger Adams and Faith Baptist our church is putting together an Outreach program. The Gospel of Luke told live by Wesley Brainard. Take a look at his website. http://web.me.com/wesleybrainard/CHARAKTER/Home.html
And then do something amazing tell everyone what you think.

First Generation Church Concepts

2009-05-20T17:54:00.004-05:00

First Generation Church Concepts vs. Fourth – Fifth Generation Concept. Or Apostolic vs. Denominational churches.

For this paper the word Apostolic refers to any Christian movement in its first generation. And Denominational refers to movements are established “mentally” in their fourth or later stage. More importantly then the “times and season” of the Church these terms refer to the attitude and approach to ministry.

First Generation are growing churches, they are exciting churches. Every church was birthed in activity and at one time was full of expectancy. They were future focused, asking God to reveal His vision for them. It is this attitude and methodology that allowed these churches to experience growth numerically and spiritually.

These “Apostolic” churches do not consider “how did we do it back when” but focus on “how can we do it now!” This mindset gives energy to a body and vitality to see it accomplish the will of God.

Apostolic churches ask “what does God want us to do?” “How does God want us to accomplish His will?” This is all about the Holy Spirits will for your life!

The Denominational approach is “what did God do in the past?” “How can we preserve that memory?” This is an attempt to relive what the Holy Spirit did in someone else life.

Apostolic churches are concerned with reaching the lost! Because they are willing to say, “here am I Lord send me!” They are become burdened for lost souls just like the Lord was. By interacting with the Living God they are able to know how to reach their generation. Because of this mindset they see it happen.

Denominational churches are concerned with maintaining status quo. The focus becomes keeping the members they have. The focus becomes so centered on the past they loose touch with the current generation. This mindset has been the cause of more defeats then victories. Keeping people interested often resorts to the use of guilt rather then inspiration. Without a fresh move of God there is no hope only past formulas. Often entire generations are lost! In reality this disrespects the first generation they think they honor by letting the fire for lost souls go out!

When studying church growth and church health you will find varying opinions as to the ability of denominational mindset churches ability to see turn around. Some advocate forward thinking leaders and believers just to strike out and start anew! Regardless of the current perception of denominational churches and their ability to have a radical redirection. It may not matter for this Church.

Get my latest notes or be here Wednesday May 27th and find out why!

Extra email

2009-05-19T11:59:00.000-05:00

Extra Extra!

First Christian Church Claims out on a Limb!

(Is this Heresy?)

News reports are now coming off the wire that Pastor Colton Clay of First Christian Church will be teaching “Jesus and Joy” the why and how Jesus People are happy people. For a long time this concept has been refuted by several in the Christian community. In-fact Professor Downer Ph. D. (Dry-bones University) has said “Sulking and bitterness happens to be one of the few Christian characters we have successfully integrated into our lives! Now they want to take that away from us, it's heresy!” Heresy or not Pastor Clay will be speaking about this rare phenomenon this Sunday May 24th and then again May 31st! If you have not been able to accept Joy and Happiness into your life, you will want to be there!

Get the word out! “We want to see you here, it is preparation for getting there!”

!Please send out this message to all you unhappy friends and family. Imagine how great your life could be if that person started Smiling!

Disclaimer: getting this message does not mean your friend thinks you are an unhappy person. They just want to see you in church!

Going Pink

2009-05-18T11:00:00.002-05:00

Going Pink for my friends fighting Cancer!

Karen Van Odsol
Barb Stalder
Jena Waters

Girls YOU WILL WIN THIS FIGHT.

"When the enemy comes in like a flood, The Spirit of the Lord will lift up A standard against him." Isaiah 59:19

Reading

2009-05-18T10:35:00.002-05:00

I am currently reading several Great Books that I must recommend.

"7 Power Principles" C. Peter Wagner
I finished this book and loved it. I do not agree with everything in it but still I highly recommend it.
"The Way in is the Way On" John Wimber
I really love John Wimber and his approach to ministry.
"The Quest for the Radical Middle"
This is a history book about the Vineyard movement. If you do not like history books it may not be for you. I do so I have enjoyed this book.
"The Gospel of the Kingdom" George Eldon Ladd
Great book! Not as fluid in writing style as Wimber of Wagner but the content is solid.
"Power Healing" John Wimber
This is a must read.

I would love to hear some comments! What are you reading right now? Do you have a must read list that you would like to share?

Faith like Potatoes

2009-05-11T10:18:00.002-05:00

I really love this movie! For everyone out there for the most part we speak of the same thing from different worlds and concepts. This movie really describes my view of the christian faith. Something very far removed from western thought "third world" in origin.
Here is a link http://www.globalcreative.co.za/FLP_index.htm
This is worth watching and make sure to see the documentary that comes with it. Comment on the site about the movie that would be great.

Some good books

2009-04-29T14:35:00.002-05:00

Here are some good books I have read lately.
"2000 years of Charismatic Christianity"
"Renewal Theology" by Williams

People can add to this blog! So tell me what have you been reading? Or just add anything you would like to say.

Just wanted to add something to this site

2009-04-29T14:26:00.003-05:00

I do not have much to say I just wanted to add something to this blog. So here goes some pearls for you. Remember when Jesus said "do not throw your pearls before swine."? Pearls in his day referred to points made during teaching or instructing. Rabbis were said to be stringing pearls, like you would do for a necklace, when teaching. This term developed from their style which often jumped around from one thought to another. A good example of this is the book of James, he is a Hebrew and wrote the same way they would teach moving from one thought to the other.

Article I wrote for the Washington Journal

2009-03-16T10:34:00.000-05:00

Whose report will you believe?

We live in a society overflowing with news and information. Regardless of your world-view, with just a little effort you can find a media source that supports your position. Consumers are feeding on one negative story after another. Talk to someone with strong political opinions and you hear more about what is wrong with the “opposition” than what is right with their view. This creates for some people a state of constant confusion. It is enough to make a person depressed, worried, overwhelmed and confused! So who should we listen to? Who can we turn to for direction in uncertain times? Better said, “Whose report will you believe?”

Today as always you want to be on solid ground and not shifting sand. The answer is not Fox CNN or CNBC, it is unchanging Word of God. Isaiah asked the question “Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?” (Is. 53:1) And what is God's what is Gods report? “But he (being Jesus) was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.” (Is. 53:5,6) When we went astray from God, Jesus provided the ultimate bailout program! Why did he do this? Because He loves you, God of all creation loves you! And reports that in all things we can be more then conquers through Christ Jesus our Lord! “What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifies. Who is he that condemn? It is Christ that died and has risen again, who is now at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” (Romans 8:31-37)
Afraid of what tomorrow will bring? Not at all, in all things the faithful in Christ will emerge triumphant in Christ. If the temporary reports have you afraid for the future it is time to hear the report of the Lord! As the word Gospel implies it is “good news” to those who receive it. Turn off the TV today and get somewhere that is giving the full report of Jesus!

March Messenger

2009-02-25T09:13:00.001-06:00

Joshua 3:3,4
“And they commanded the people, saying, When ye see the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, and the priests the Levites bearing it, then ye shall remove from your place, and go after it. Yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure: come not near unto it, that ye may know the way by which ye must go: for ye have not passed this way heretofore.”

When the time had come for the children of Israel to cross over into the promise land, God gave clear direction for their journey. He could have simply said “There it is.” But, God had a lesson in mind for Israel. He had pattern for them to follow that would show not only His path but His priorities for life in the promise land. In chapter three and four of Joshua, God gives detail instruction for crossing the Jordan's river. The ark, the symbol of God's presence, had to go before them and open the way for them to pass through. (Joshua 3:14,15) Once Israel crossed over, Joshua appointed twelve men to carry stones for a remembrance of what God had done. (Joshua 4) This obedience to the voice of God is what brought success that day, Joshua heard the voice of God and obeyed and that allowed Israel to go forward into their promised land.
Do Christians of our day have a “promise land”? I believe we do, but it is not physical piece of land, it is a strong fortress in our spiritual life. This is a place of Peace, Joy and Power, a life of walking in the Spirit. For our church it will mean seeing lost souls coming to Christ, fear being cast out, families and community being strengthened. To “crossover” as a church or as an individual God still has a pattern. We must be lead of the Spirit, we must follow the guidelines of His word and we must be willing to share our faith to others. Read Chapters three and four of Joshua. God sent the ark ahead of the people and gave them detailed instruction on how to follow, then commanded them to share the event with generations to follow. Our own faith is not alive without the Spirit (the ark) the word (the direction) and a willingness to share the message (the twelve stones for remembrance).
Crossover in your life!
Pastor Colton

February Messenger

2009-02-25T09:12:00.000-06:00

Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

As I write this I am still rejoicing over the wonderful service we experienced this Sunday (18th). God has laid the foundation of a revival in this church and He is faithful to complete His work. People have been responding to the altar calls, confessing a renewed faith and coming forth for baptism. These are signs of Revival in our mist. Join with me in believing this is a year of Jubilee, you have sown in tears and now it is time to reap in Joy!
Revival is a wonderful experience you will never forget and never want to let go of. Revival is a time when new people give their hearts to Jesus and the faithful become renewed with energy to serve God. New friendships are made and old ones become stronger in the love of God. Church becomes more exciting with each service and prayer is something you look forward to. It ignites a burning desire to share the Gospel in your soul.
For this very reason we must be on guard against our enemy. Remember what the bible says “for a advisory the devil is like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.” Our enemy would like to divide us over small disagreements and petty personal differences. If that happens take your eyes of the temporal situation and put your heart and mind on the eternal by prayer and following the voice of God. Commit to this truth- it is not Gods will that fellowship be broken or feelings be hurt, so be on guard and have a forgiving spirit.
Another way in which the enemy seeks to stop revival is to turn it inward. True revival is outward as the Holy Spirit fills you with compassion for the lost and joy to see gospel go forth. Just as God does not want fellowship with other believers broken, He also desires that you be a light to this lost world. Shine with a joyous spirit so that the light of Jesus will show them the way. Do not bottle it up! Let others know what God is doing in your life and in your church, this will empower your Spiritual walk. Hold fast to the work of the Lord and rejoice in the moving of His Spirit.
Deana and I love you and are thank God is allowing us to be here with you as this season of Joy begins. Praise be to God who has given us all the victory the Jesus Christ our Lord.

Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

January Messenger Entry

2009-01-29T12:11:00.000-06:00

“The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” -Psalms 118:22-24

This scripture is a prophecy of Jesus, He is the stone that the builders refused, David sees the coming of Christ and rejoices. The twenty-third verse is often quoted in reference to any and everyday. “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Although it is true that the Lord has made everyday, David's focus was on special day that had come to fruition in time. Rome had spread beyond any empire before it further spreading a singular language of Greek. This allowed the gospel to be shared in ways unimaginable prior to the Roman Empire. Jerusalem, as it is today, was an epicenter of expectation, culture and faith. God had even placed the stars in the sky to shine forth a symbol of when and were His Son was to be born. Over two-thousand years latter we are still celebrating that day, we still rejoice we are still glad. The stone that the builders refused has to us who believe become a rock of salvation!

It is wonderful to meditate on the events of history and see how God has kept His Son at the center of human thought. Although the enemy would like nothing more then to blot out His name, His kingdom is everlasting. We are still marking the day that Lord had made!

Our families sincerest thank you for all the cards and gifts this Christmas season. We are overwhelmed by the goodness of God that He has sent us here to be your Pastor. We have rejoiced everyday and love Iowa, yes even the winter because it to is apart of our new home. Personally in my life I can say “This is the day the Lord has made I will rejoice and be glad in it.” It is our prayer that everyone in this church will feel that way, that 2009 become a year of Jubilee! There is so much that can be done that will make life so exciting, it is a great thing to live for the Lord. This January we will begin having Wednesday night service starting at 6:30 make a commitment now to be apart of this worship all year. We also have several bible study groups throughout the week to be involved with so I encourage you be involved! The harvest is ready but the labors are few, pray that the Lord will send laborers into the field.

Peace be with You!

Colton, Dean and India

BEBO a cool site to stay connected.

2008-12-24T11:14:00.001-06:00

Colton C http://www.bebo.com/ColtonGC

Come, let us reason together

2008-12-09T10:52:00.002-06:00

What is God wanting to do in the life of our Church? What is God wanting to do in YOUR life?
I am asking everyone to join with me in "dreaming" in vision planning. Let this blog be a place that we share our vision together. What has God been placing on your heart? When you envision the great things that He will do in our church, what do you see?

Water Valley Mississippi

2008-11-04T22:11:00.004-06:00

To our good friends at Mount Libery Church in Water Valley Mississippi. We want you to know that we loved the time we spent with you and really believe the Lord moved in the sevices we spent together. I know God has great plans for your church and a Pastor that will lead you to a fuller relationship with Him. Just continue to pray and be humble seeking our Lord. These are the last days and it is important that Christians take their calling very seriously. God bless you my friends. My family and I now will be moving to Iowa to begin a new ministry, but our prayers will still be with you. If I can help you in anyway let me know.
Praise be to our Lord Jesus who has given us the Victory.

Washington Iowa of New Home

2008-11-04T22:11:00.001-06:00

Praise the Lord for all His mercy and love! My family and I are so excited to announce that we have accepted the position of Senior Pastor at the First Christian Church of Washington, Iowa. This lovely community has opened their hearts to us and together we have agreed this has been the work of our Lord!

It is with great anticipation that we begin our move, knowing that “all things work to the good of those who love the Lord.”

To our friends at First Christian I ask that you pray for revival! God is ready to pour out His Spirit upon us in a fresh way. Together we will see souls saved, lives healed and the name of Jesus glorified. But it will only happen when His people humble themselves seek His face and call on His name.

Washington Iowa

2008-10-03T09:40:00.003-05:00

We will be traveling to Washington, Iowa to be with our new friends at First Christian Church on the weekend of Oct. 12th. We are very excited and look forward to meeting everyone there!

"Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ"
Philippians 1:6

There but by the Grace of God.

2008-09-24T23:22:00.001-05:00

Once I look at myself with out blinders, at my true self, I see the scripture revealed that within me there is no good thing. All my righteousness is but filthy rags. In my nature there is no righteousness. I am by nature a selfish, angry, jealous person. My thoughts are self serving and unrestrained. I am by nature sinful. I was not taught sin, I was conceived in sin. On my own I would only reflect moral platitudes, if I believed it would serve me in the end.

It is when I have that glimpse of holiness conferred upon me by Christ that I can in anyway understand what Holiness is. I can therefore taste peace and taste truthfulness in my inward being. Justification was given to me when it was not present within me. Because of this grace I can know what Holiness feels like, tastes like- what it truly is. I can only know real Holiness when I understand that it is not mine, it is a gift.

When we experience this holiness, how can we judge anyone who has not partaken in the heavenly gift? How can we judge someone whose life is what by their own nature evolved into? For left to our own nature, would we not also have created an equal life of self destruction? There but the Grace of God go we. Once our eyes are open to God’s true Holiness how can we ever believe it is in anyway any part of our own. It is a nature foreign to us and yet given to us without measure insomuch as we will receive it. There then is the timeless truth.

The just shall live by Faith.

Let us Pray!

2008-09-02T13:53:00.003-05:00

He went away and sent us the Comforter to be with us forever. There is the ever abiding presence of the Holy Spirit and there is the time of out pouring and refreshing by corporate outpouring of the Holy Spirit. A time of revival when God’s people called by His name humble themselves, turn from their wicked ways and seek His face. Then the healing comes the power of the presence of the Almighty is felt. It is a “know that you know” experience that comes when His people are in one mind pressing to be obedient to Him. We need that, we need it more then anything in this world. We need it for our children, we need it for ourselves, the Church needs it to be the Light to this lost world. There is a price for Revival. Jesus paid the price so that we may have a relationship with Him through the indwelling of His Spirit. But this comes from people who want to shed the relationship with the sinful nature and be in contact with our Holy God.
I want revival! My prayer right now is Lord help me to want it even more. Bring a fresh out pouring of your Spirit Lord on this generation! Let us bind together in prayer for that purpose.

Celebration of Discipline

2008-08-20T15:37:00.002-05:00

I am reading "Celebration of Discipline" again and loving it more this time then the last. To my daughters delight this is not a book about child rearing. :) It is a challenging book about developing our inward faith and expressing that in outward action. As Jesus' teaches us, "we should clean the inside of the cup and then the outside will be clean also." I want to encourage anyone seeking to be spiritually challenged to read this fine book. It is by Richard J. Foster and I highly recommend it.
Also, I am looking for a copy of the book "The upside down Kingdom" by Donald B. Kraybill, early edition if possible. If you have copy you would be willing to part with please let me know.

Hope

2008-08-08T12:04:00.002-05:00

Hebrews 6:19 "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain," (NIV)

Hope is very important in life without it our lives are empty, frightening and lack meaning. With hope we are refreshed, determined, embracing our lives. But if what we hope for is leading us in the wrong direction in life? We will find ourselves disappointed by this worlds rewards. Hebrews gives us an great hope, that we can have a relationship with Jesus. Something far beyond a confession of faith, a dogma of religion or lifeless knowledge of Theology. We have this great Hope that should be pursued with our whole heart as a real interactive relationship. When we grasp that, meditate on it and begin to see the world with this vision, this Hope! Everything becomes brighter we are entering behind the current into the Holy place with Him is the light of the world. My prayer for everyone is a life full of Hope.

Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere

2008-07-24T12:30:00.003-05:00

Psalm 84:10 "Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked."
God has been doing great things lately and I just want to declare how thankful I am to Him. I do not know if everyone has to go through a “desert” experience in their life, but I know a lot of people do. Deana and I have certainly felt like Moses having spent forty years on the back side of a barren region. After serving a few years as a bi-vocational Pastor, I was unable to do both and for varies reason stayed with my job here in Searcy resigning my Church (In good standings) . My seventy hour a week job was not allowing time to give the Church what they deserved and at the time we wanted to stay close to our family. So, we began what now seems like the start of a journey through a desert of refinement. It has not always appeared that way more then once I have felt like Elijah under the broom tree saying “It is enough! Now, LORD, take my life..” But in the end He was Faithful and finally spiritually the rain has begun to pour out again! At this point in my life I can not help but praise Him, like the servant that could finally see that the cloud was coming! His Spirit has begun a time of refreshing! I just want to say to anyone who may be doubting it, our may be in dry place themselves, Better is one day in His courts than a thousand elsewhere!

The Ministry is not a career, it is a calling.

2008-07-23T15:35:00.000-05:00

Deana and I have spent a lot of time in prayer and discussion about how excited we are about ministry. In describing how we see our role in the church, it is “to apart of a whole.” The Church (local body) is made up of many parts and everyone is important. We want to use our gifts as God enables us to strengthen others gifts to enable growth in the Kingdom and see people flourish in their lives. We are active in visitation with both members of the Church as well as non-churched people. I believe it is still important for a Pastor to get out and be apart of the community and visit the sick. As we have prayed for God’s direction, we still do not know the location He is sending us, but the Spirit has begun to confirm to us that great things are going to happen. I wanted to share that with you, because I am thrilled in my spirit about what God is doing. God has been putting a vision in my heart these past view months as He prepares us to move into a new ministry and from that I know God is going to do great things.

But more important then all that.

2008-07-18T12:22:00.002-05:00

What I think is more important the a list of experiences is a list of passion and practice. I say this with humility because I know personally what it means to fall short of the calling. I long to be a Pastor again ( am currently serving within my local body) I miss it with every part of my being to the point of anguish. To not be living everyday the calling that God has place on my heart is without a doubt an indescribable pain. Deana and I are people of prayer and lovers of the word. I do not care about income, possessions, what a church can provide for us in a monetary sense. Only that we are in a place with other Christian ready and hungry to see a move of God. I am not seeking a stepping stone but a place to call home so long as the Lord wills. What I am seeking is ministry, real ministry were people are helped by the good news. America is a mission ground and the Church can no long sit back without passion and expect to reach our communities. We must be willing to put our entire lives on the line in serves to others so that the light of the Gospel can be seen in this generation.

Summing some things up.

2008-07-18T11:52:00.000-05:00

I often see a short request list for prospective pastors. A list of some qualifications that the Church has deemed important before considering an applicant. So for convenience sake I would like to offer a quick summary here. I would like to add that I really believe this is truly only a starting point, there is so much more to every person that these short list could never really explain who a person is. But here goes!

I have 36 hours post graduate work (M.A. AGTS)
B.A. in Theology with a 3.2 GPA
Five plus years as a Pastor
Eight plus years in ministry.
Married fourteen years.
One daughter age twelve.

That covers in a nut shell the most common “must haves”
God bless you in following the Holy Spirit as you seek out your new Pastor.

Adding church opening information

2008-07-11T12:43:00.003-05:00

As mentioned on my website, www.coltonclay.com I would like to help other ministers and Churches connect. Just send me the post you would like to make and contact information and I will post this on my website for free. I do not believe it is good for the long term health of a Church to remain without a Pastor for an extended length of time. Therefore lets all join together to help one another. God Bless.

the name of my website

2008-07-10T12:35:00.002-05:00

I want to make a few comments about the name of my website. Truthfully, I wish I had chosen something else. The reason is that has over tones of self promotion. I picked it long before I decided to even build a website. I was online one day and found the office live site that offered free .com's and thought it would be fun. It was much later that I decided to create the website as it is now. I also would rather the site be a .org but this will have to do for now. It is still free and therefore makes the most sense.
An update, thank you for your prayers my dad is doing great.

June 25th

2008-06-25T11:11:00.002-05:00

God Bless! I would like to ask everyone to pray for my Dad he just had bypass surgery. He is doing very good right now but still needs our prayers. I have add a lot of new information to the website so spend some time looking around. I want to thank Pastor Mark Brooke at Cornerstone Church for having come and Minister recently. Pastor Mark has a wonderful church and we pray for you. We have finally settled into our new house and completed the sale of our home. This is great news it means we are ready to go whenever and wherever God calls.

New youtube video

2008-06-12T12:18:00.002-05:00

So... I managed to edit a 30 minute sermon down to about 8 minutes. And I posted that on youtube. I plan on doing online devotions soon. Deana and India are out of town they went with my mother-in-law for a girls night out. So that will give me time to work on a new video. God bless everyone.

2008-06-11T08:16:00.002-05:00

I am not sure the youtube video I currently have really represents my "style" of preaching. What it does is represent my lack of knowledge about video editing software. Because that section was the only section I could manage to cut out that would fit on youtube. The sermon was about Jesus as our only way of salvation and how that is a free gift. I bought Adobe editing software and hopefully I will have more on youtube soon. I the meantime that will have to do. God Bless.

2008-06-10T00:09:00.001-05:00

I now have a short clip of one of my sermons on www.youtube.com I encourage you to take some time and check it out. Also there should be more to follow very soon! God Bless you!
www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HLqJpolPW8
My user name is Gospel2u I look forward to your comments.

2007-12-17T12:02:00.000-06:00

Make sure to check back with www.coltonclay.com ! I have recently updated the homepage!

Welcome

2007-12-06T16:19:00.001-06:00

Welcome to my blog a simple place to post comments about my website, or really any subject of interest. I will from time to time blog about current issue that I would like to discuss, so feel free to jump in and even start a topic yourself. If you have been to my website please let me know, this blog is a great place for that.