My recent article entitled, "Is it Possible to be Non-denominational?" obviously pushed a few "easy buttons." There have been defensive responses, personal attacks, accusations of anger, jealousy, and more. -- the site counter is spinning. :-) Sadly, the comments have all been submitted anonymously, so I have not posted them. As a side note, I've found that people who sign "anonymous" are either cowards OR those who have no facts on which to base their opinions. I usually don't even read anything that isn't signed, but I was anticipating some entertaining responses -- and was not disappointed.
Why would I write about non-denominationalism? Simply because there is so much confusion in our own church, across our community, and beyond. For those who thought I was attacking all non-denominational churches, let me assure you that is not the case. Some of my closest pastor friends do not have denominational titles on their signs. More importantly, I will never attack a church (of any denomination, "or not") that has sound doctrine, but those who stir confusion in the Body of Christ are in my cross hairs. The Apostle Paul issued a warning and God recorded it in His Word. 2 Tim 4:3-4 states, "For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths."
Paul's warning is playing out before us as we watch believers choose churches simply based on music styles, service times, recreational opportunities, geographic location, etc. -- regardless of bad doctrine! Even more regrettable is the fact that some pastors will "hide" their church's doctrinal position or write a "cute" doctrinal statement for the sake of not offending anyone. Have we forgotten that while Jesus never offended anyone with His disposition, His position would be considered quite intolerant in today's society. (I.e. - He told the tax collectors to stop stealing, the adulteress woman to stop her whoring, sinners to repent, the religious to start a relationship, and more.)
I plan to continue to address these issues in future blogs, so for clarification sake, let me give you some of my background. 1) Prior to relocating to Hartsville, SC, I worked in a church named Grace Fellowship Church. We dropped Baptist from the name in order to reach more people (and it worked), but our doctrine never changed and the church is still an SBC church. 2) A couple of years ago at Emmanuel, I was accused of trying to make the church "non-denominational because we did not include the word"Baptist" on the sides of our new bus -- even though it is on both the front and the back -- our doctrine did not change. 3) I continue to come under fire because I am willing to fellowship with people and local pastors outside the Baptist faith in community events, and in our local ministerial association; but my doctrinal beliefs have not changed. These are only a few examples, but hopefully you get the point -- I've come under fire since arriving in Hartsville by pastors and people (including Baptists) who have no understanding of the term non-denominational and misuse it as their basis for attacks.
Do any of these illustrations mean I am non-denominational? NO. It just proves that people don't understand what the term means and they have elevated denominational titles over doctrinal positions. For the record, I'm not spiritually or intellectually shallow enough to go along with the mentality of, "Baptist born, Baptist bred, and when I die I'll be Baptist dead." BUT, I do believe that Baptist doctrine is the closest to a literal and accurate interpretation of the Scriptures, so I choose to worship in a Baptist church -- BUT the key point is doctrine, not denomination.
My real desire would be for people to call me a Christian or label me a Biblicist. I think most people in our congregation and those in our community realize that my desire is to follow Jesus, to live according to God's Word, and to point people to Him. I'm more interested in people becoming believers, than I am in their becoming Baptists. This could be why our church is made up of people from a wide array of denominational backgrounds (that sounds like inter-denominationalism), but that's a topic for another post...
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Monday, September 28, 2009
Sunday Summary 9.27.09
Yesterday was NFL Sunday at Emmanuel. While professional players and coaches think NFL means "Not For Long;" at EBC, it stood for "No Friend Left-behind" and we had many guests in our service today.
The day started with tailgate parties in lieu of Sunday School. Families gathered for breakfast on the parking lots. There was good food, mixing, mingling, and of course a few pick-up games of football. This was a great opportunity for classes to emerge from their holes, fellowship outside their circles, and meet some new people. We encouraged people to wear their NFL attire, and this provided a great launching point for conversations. There were even a few loyal Dolphin fans in the bunch (several on our staff.)
Our morning service started with a baptism and included some of the best music you'll hear in Hartsville. Our commitment to a blended style usually provides something for everyone. Mike Mintor, former Nebraska Corn-Husker and Carolina Panther, was our guest speaker. Mike scored big with today's message. He continues to use his NFL platform to tell people that life is about glorifying God and giving the credit to Jesus as the MVP. He talked about the power of prayer, faith, salvation, and our testimony. It was exciting to hear Mike brag about one of our church family's that he observed in the community and recognized at church -- you never know who is watching, but your testimony always leaves an impression. God's Spirit spoke through Mike, and several made the decision to start a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
The afternoon activities included our flag football league and several new players joined in; there was a Judgement House practice in preparation for the weekend of Oct. 16-18; and we had a missions trip meeting for those going with me to Mali, Africa in February. There are many exciting things coming up!
Last night, we enjoyed communion and allowed the head of each household to serve the communion to their families. This provided a great opportunity for men & women to rise into the role of leading their families spiritually. As the families came forward, our staff and deacons prayed with each one and thanked them for the role they play in our church family. I've had several people tell me that was their favorite communion service yet! We try to observe communion differently each time in order to avoid ruts and ritualism.
We were also blessed to have our missionaries to Madagascar, Bobby and Joanna Burdett, surprise us by attending the service last night. It was another blessed day with an eternal impact at Emmanuel!
Lord, thanks for helping us to grow smaller, as we continue to grow larger. Help us to maintain our ability to care for individuals as we continue to enlarge your family.
The day started with tailgate parties in lieu of Sunday School. Families gathered for breakfast on the parking lots. There was good food, mixing, mingling, and of course a few pick-up games of football. This was a great opportunity for classes to emerge from their holes, fellowship outside their circles, and meet some new people. We encouraged people to wear their NFL attire, and this provided a great launching point for conversations. There were even a few loyal Dolphin fans in the bunch (several on our staff.)
Our morning service started with a baptism and included some of the best music you'll hear in Hartsville. Our commitment to a blended style usually provides something for everyone. Mike Mintor, former Nebraska Corn-Husker and Carolina Panther, was our guest speaker. Mike scored big with today's message. He continues to use his NFL platform to tell people that life is about glorifying God and giving the credit to Jesus as the MVP. He talked about the power of prayer, faith, salvation, and our testimony. It was exciting to hear Mike brag about one of our church family's that he observed in the community and recognized at church -- you never know who is watching, but your testimony always leaves an impression. God's Spirit spoke through Mike, and several made the decision to start a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
The afternoon activities included our flag football league and several new players joined in; there was a Judgement House practice in preparation for the weekend of Oct. 16-18; and we had a missions trip meeting for those going with me to Mali, Africa in February. There are many exciting things coming up!
Last night, we enjoyed communion and allowed the head of each household to serve the communion to their families. This provided a great opportunity for men & women to rise into the role of leading their families spiritually. As the families came forward, our staff and deacons prayed with each one and thanked them for the role they play in our church family. I've had several people tell me that was their favorite communion service yet! We try to observe communion differently each time in order to avoid ruts and ritualism.
We were also blessed to have our missionaries to Madagascar, Bobby and Joanna Burdett, surprise us by attending the service last night. It was another blessed day with an eternal impact at Emmanuel!
Lord, thanks for helping us to grow smaller, as we continue to grow larger. Help us to maintain our ability to care for individuals as we continue to enlarge your family.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Libery University
It's exciting to see Christians doing things first class! One of the slogans we use at our church is "If it bears His name, it deserves our best." I could brag on our church and school, but won't for fear that what I say may be misinterpreted as taking the glory that belongs to God. We realize our successes are the results of His blessings. Instead, I want to tell you briefly about Liberty University and direct you to their website at www.liberty.edu.
One of my daughters is now attending LU and this week we attended her pinning ceremony as nearly 150 students were accepted into their nursing program for 2009. Every time I drive on to their campus, I'm reminded of Dr. Jerry Falwell. He was a hero of the faith, who stepped out of his comfort zone, stood firm against sin, preached sound doctrine, took chances, dreamed big, and didn't seek to please anyone except God (and maybe his wife - occasionally). God used him to do miraculous things, fulfilled his dreams, and will use his life's investments for years to come!
Started in 1971, Liberty University has become a leading university, and still remains committed to its Christian distinctiveness. I didn't say that every student attending LU is a Christian, neither did I say it is a perfect school; but I am emphasizing that it is built and focused on Jesus Christ. As a university, LU has 11 schools/colleges under its umbrella and nearly 12,000 resident students, plus an additional 20,000+ enrolled in distance learning LU is SACS accredited and accreditation does matter - in spite of what some will tell you. LU is has 5,000 acres, 123 buildings, an ice hockey facility, indoor soccer complex, indoor & outdoor pools, aerobic rooms, paintball field, 112 acre lake, equestrian center, year-round ski slopes & lodge, several restaurants, football stadium (expanding from 12,000 to 30,000 seats), volleyball/basketball arena (expanding from 8,000 to 12,000 seats), and MORE! Who says Christians can't have the "best?"
I personally wish every student could attend a Christian college/university as they prepare for their careers. Imagine what this world might be like if more business professionals (and others) put Christ first and practiced Christian ethics. I understand that there is a cost to Christian education and not all Christian colleges can offer the degrees the students are seeking, but LU offers some good opportunities and I just wanted to draw your attention to it. For more information (maybe even distance learning) visit their website at www.liberty.edu.
AND REMEMBER - When God gives you a dream, He will give you the resources to fulfill it. What God did through Jerry Falwell, He can do through others who will dream big, focus on God, ignore the distractions, and remain faithful. Is God giving you a dream?
One of my daughters is now attending LU and this week we attended her pinning ceremony as nearly 150 students were accepted into their nursing program for 2009. Every time I drive on to their campus, I'm reminded of Dr. Jerry Falwell. He was a hero of the faith, who stepped out of his comfort zone, stood firm against sin, preached sound doctrine, took chances, dreamed big, and didn't seek to please anyone except God (and maybe his wife - occasionally). God used him to do miraculous things, fulfilled his dreams, and will use his life's investments for years to come!
Started in 1971, Liberty University has become a leading university, and still remains committed to its Christian distinctiveness. I didn't say that every student attending LU is a Christian, neither did I say it is a perfect school; but I am emphasizing that it is built and focused on Jesus Christ. As a university, LU has 11 schools/colleges under its umbrella and nearly 12,000 resident students, plus an additional 20,000+ enrolled in distance learning LU is SACS accredited and accreditation does matter - in spite of what some will tell you. LU is has 5,000 acres, 123 buildings, an ice hockey facility, indoor soccer complex, indoor & outdoor pools, aerobic rooms, paintball field, 112 acre lake, equestrian center, year-round ski slopes & lodge, several restaurants, football stadium (expanding from 12,000 to 30,000 seats), volleyball/basketball arena (expanding from 8,000 to 12,000 seats), and MORE! Who says Christians can't have the "best?"
I personally wish every student could attend a Christian college/university as they prepare for their careers. Imagine what this world might be like if more business professionals (and others) put Christ first and practiced Christian ethics. I understand that there is a cost to Christian education and not all Christian colleges can offer the degrees the students are seeking, but LU offers some good opportunities and I just wanted to draw your attention to it. For more information (maybe even distance learning) visit their website at www.liberty.edu.
AND REMEMBER - When God gives you a dream, He will give you the resources to fulfill it. What God did through Jerry Falwell, He can do through others who will dream big, focus on God, ignore the distractions, and remain faithful. Is God giving you a dream?
Monday, September 21, 2009
Sunday Summary 9.20.09
Sunday was GREAT! Our attendance was down by about 100 due to the flu, baseball tournaments, etc.; but God's Spirit was present! It's funny how often I even buy into the false idea that a good Sunday is a well-attended Sunday. We call that "stinkin-thinkin." A good Sunday is one in which God's Spirit has the freedom to work and God's message results in changed lives.
This past Sunday, we started with 3 baptisms. One was a 5th grade girl who was saved in our Christian school last year and now felt ready for baptism. The other 2 baptisms were a couple who were saved at young ages, recently married, growing in the Lord, and ready to be baptized and become part of our church family.
I continued the sermon series from James 2:1-13 and addressed James' warning against partiality. He makes it quite clear that God is no respecter of persons and neither are true believers. Partiality could include judgmental attitudes between black-white, rich-poor, skinny-plump, singers-non-singers, educated-uneducated, well dressed-poorly dressed, English speaking-other languages, etc. Warren Wiersbe says, "The way we behave toward people indicates what we truly believe about God." I preached in a T-shirt for the first time (hopefully there will be others), as an illustration that too many focus on the outward appearance instead of the heart. NOTE: James 2 addresses partiality based solely on out outward appearances. Other passages teach us to use discernment, to avoid, and even to treat as pagans; those with heart issues in which they choose their sin over the Savior. A simple study of church discipline in Matt. 18:15-17 will reveal how to deal with those indulging in sinful behavior.
Sunday afternoon, our Deacons laid hands on, anointed with oil, and prayed over a man who has several physical ailments. He approached me a couple of weeks ago desiring to follow the Scriptural teaching found in James 5:14 - James 5:14-15 - "Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up." This was a special time of prayer and we are now just waiting to see what God will do.
Our Youth Pastor, Justin, is coordinating a flag football league that "kicked-off" Sunday afternoon with around 30 people participating. This has been a great outreach into our community and a lot of fun for those participating. There were only a couple of injuries from what I heard (Luke - broken finger, Kurt - split chin, Justin - bruised jaw, Ray - bruised shoulder, etc.) For the record, I thought Ray had been banned due to passing the number of injuries permitted. :-)
On Sunday night, we had a missions emphasis service. We mentioned and prayed for the new Crisis Pregnancy Centers, for Onesimus Kibera (a national pastor in Kenya), and for John & Melissa Bjorgen (Missionaries to Belize). We also heard a report from our mission team that just returned from Nicaragua.
Already looking forward to next Sunday as we have Mike Minter, former Carolina Panther, preaching for us. Invite some friends who need to hear the gospel!
This past Sunday, we started with 3 baptisms. One was a 5th grade girl who was saved in our Christian school last year and now felt ready for baptism. The other 2 baptisms were a couple who were saved at young ages, recently married, growing in the Lord, and ready to be baptized and become part of our church family.
I continued the sermon series from James 2:1-13 and addressed James' warning against partiality. He makes it quite clear that God is no respecter of persons and neither are true believers. Partiality could include judgmental attitudes between black-white, rich-poor, skinny-plump, singers-non-singers, educated-uneducated, well dressed-poorly dressed, English speaking-other languages, etc. Warren Wiersbe says, "The way we behave toward people indicates what we truly believe about God." I preached in a T-shirt for the first time (hopefully there will be others), as an illustration that too many focus on the outward appearance instead of the heart. NOTE: James 2 addresses partiality based solely on out outward appearances. Other passages teach us to use discernment, to avoid, and even to treat as pagans; those with heart issues in which they choose their sin over the Savior. A simple study of church discipline in Matt. 18:15-17 will reveal how to deal with those indulging in sinful behavior.
Sunday afternoon, our Deacons laid hands on, anointed with oil, and prayed over a man who has several physical ailments. He approached me a couple of weeks ago desiring to follow the Scriptural teaching found in James 5:14 - James 5:14-15 - "Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up." This was a special time of prayer and we are now just waiting to see what God will do.
Our Youth Pastor, Justin, is coordinating a flag football league that "kicked-off" Sunday afternoon with around 30 people participating. This has been a great outreach into our community and a lot of fun for those participating. There were only a couple of injuries from what I heard (Luke - broken finger, Kurt - split chin, Justin - bruised jaw, Ray - bruised shoulder, etc.) For the record, I thought Ray had been banned due to passing the number of injuries permitted. :-)
On Sunday night, we had a missions emphasis service. We mentioned and prayed for the new Crisis Pregnancy Centers, for Onesimus Kibera (a national pastor in Kenya), and for John & Melissa Bjorgen (Missionaries to Belize). We also heard a report from our mission team that just returned from Nicaragua.
Already looking forward to next Sunday as we have Mike Minter, former Carolina Panther, preaching for us. Invite some friends who need to hear the gospel!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Crisis Pregnancy Centers
Take a look at our new website for the Crisis Pregnancy Centers at www.carolinafamilyplanning.org.
We are making tremendous strides that include:
- Receiving approval for our 501(c)3 status
- Opening a bank account to receive your tax-deductible donations
- Hiring a Director for the Darlington site
- Hiring a Fundraiser
- Hosting another community meeting at Central Baptist Church in Darlington on Sept. 24
- Providing volunteer training on Oct. 1-3 (Required for volunteers)
- Opening offices in Darlington, Florence, and Hartsville in October.
- AND MORE!
This is getting VERY exciting and I'll keep you posted!
We are making tremendous strides that include:
- Receiving approval for our 501(c)3 status
- Opening a bank account to receive your tax-deductible donations
- Hiring a Director for the Darlington site
- Hiring a Fundraiser
- Hosting another community meeting at Central Baptist Church in Darlington on Sept. 24
- Providing volunteer training on Oct. 1-3 (Required for volunteers)
- Opening offices in Darlington, Florence, and Hartsville in October.
- AND MORE!
This is getting VERY exciting and I'll keep you posted!
Is it Possible to be Non-Denominational?
Southern speech often contains colloquialisms that reference impossibilities. One example would be the commonly used phrase, "Cut the light on." Now you and I both know that it is literally impossible to "cut" a light on, and that anytime a circuit is "cut," the light would go off. BUT, people still use the phrase and it has become acceptable.
I personally believe we have done the same thing in the religious realm, so I want to pose a question -- Is it REALLY even possible to be a non-denominational church? Without question, a church can be interdenominational (combining and utilizing aspects of various denominations), but what about non-denominational? Is it even possible for a church to be void of any and all denominational practices and/or traditions?
Here's my observance. It has become a common practice for churches to remove their denominational titles from their church signs. Some believe it helps them attract more guests into their services. I personally agree that there are SOME times when such action has merit and removes "real" barriers (and I'm all for removing barriers); but taking the denominational title off the church sign still does NOT make it non-denominational -- it just means they removed a word from the sign. The church still adheres to a doctrinal position of some sort. Some will claim the Bible as their doctrinal statement and it should be, but let me give you a word of caution regarding the spinsters who try to be cute and say they base all of their beliefs on the Bible -- BEWARE -- strong denominational churches make the same claim. To borrow another Southern expression... "That dog won't hunt!"
It is obvious that non-denominational churches adhere to doctrinal positions with denominational slants, because they differ in their positions regarding faith and practice. Consider some of the the variations among non-denominational churches. Regarding baptism, some baptize by immersion, some by sprinkling, some by pouring, and some baptize with the Holy Spirit. Regarding communion, some use unleavened bread, some use loaves, some drink wine, and some drink grape juice. Regarding pastors, some allow females, some require males, some allow divorcees, and some do not. Regarding elders and deacons, some have them, some do not. Regarding salvation, some believe once saved always saved, some believe true believers are secure, and some believe you can fall from grace. Regarding speaking in tongues, some believe it still occurs and some believe it has ceased. Some believe in faith healing and some do not. Some believe the Bible IS the Word of God and others believe it contains the Word of God. These are just a few of the MAJOR differences among "so-called" non-denominational churches.
I contend that each "non-denominational" church takes on the denominational background of the pastor(s), because he was raised, discipled, and trained in a church of some denominational persuasion. He attended a seminary that adheres to some denominational slant. If he wasn't trained or hasn't been proven in a church setting, then he is a novice and doesn't even meet the requirements to be a pastor. Without question, every church has to adhere to some position regarding salvation, baptism, the Lord's supper, the inerrancy of Scripture, etc.; otherwise it is nothing more than a crowd of people with a diversity of opinions.
Some use non-denominationalism as a marketing tool, but they still hold to a strict doctrinal position influenced by a particular denomination-- although they DO NOT LIKE TO PUBLISH THEIR DOCTRINAL POSITIONS, because it would reveal their slant! Interestingly enough, Thom Rainer points out in his book, "Surprising Insights from the Unchurched," that while churches are removing their denominations from their signs, those outside the church actually want to know what group they affiliate with. While in melting pots like South Florida or New York City a denominational title may turn a few away, the Christian culture of the Deep South cries out to know.
Think about it -- if a pastor has no doctrinal position, then how can he preach? Either Jesus is God or He's not... either the Bible is inerrant or it's not... either salvation comes by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone or it does not... and the list goes on. Paul told Timothy to be ready to give an answer to any man who asked. How could he answer if he didn't have a specific system of beliefs? It's been said that "If you stand for nothing, then you'll fall for anything," so you better know where you stand regarding doctrine.
I applaud those who try to be "biblical, not traditional;" but please realize that no church is truly void of all denominationalism. I'll leave you with my final observation..."Today, non-denominationalism has become a denomination."
I personally believe we have done the same thing in the religious realm, so I want to pose a question -- Is it REALLY even possible to be a non-denominational church? Without question, a church can be interdenominational (combining and utilizing aspects of various denominations), but what about non-denominational? Is it even possible for a church to be void of any and all denominational practices and/or traditions?
Here's my observance. It has become a common practice for churches to remove their denominational titles from their church signs. Some believe it helps them attract more guests into their services. I personally agree that there are SOME times when such action has merit and removes "real" barriers (and I'm all for removing barriers); but taking the denominational title off the church sign still does NOT make it non-denominational -- it just means they removed a word from the sign. The church still adheres to a doctrinal position of some sort. Some will claim the Bible as their doctrinal statement and it should be, but let me give you a word of caution regarding the spinsters who try to be cute and say they base all of their beliefs on the Bible -- BEWARE -- strong denominational churches make the same claim. To borrow another Southern expression... "That dog won't hunt!"
It is obvious that non-denominational churches adhere to doctrinal positions with denominational slants, because they differ in their positions regarding faith and practice. Consider some of the the variations among non-denominational churches. Regarding baptism, some baptize by immersion, some by sprinkling, some by pouring, and some baptize with the Holy Spirit. Regarding communion, some use unleavened bread, some use loaves, some drink wine, and some drink grape juice. Regarding pastors, some allow females, some require males, some allow divorcees, and some do not. Regarding elders and deacons, some have them, some do not. Regarding salvation, some believe once saved always saved, some believe true believers are secure, and some believe you can fall from grace. Regarding speaking in tongues, some believe it still occurs and some believe it has ceased. Some believe in faith healing and some do not. Some believe the Bible IS the Word of God and others believe it contains the Word of God. These are just a few of the MAJOR differences among "so-called" non-denominational churches.
I contend that each "non-denominational" church takes on the denominational background of the pastor(s), because he was raised, discipled, and trained in a church of some denominational persuasion. He attended a seminary that adheres to some denominational slant. If he wasn't trained or hasn't been proven in a church setting, then he is a novice and doesn't even meet the requirements to be a pastor. Without question, every church has to adhere to some position regarding salvation, baptism, the Lord's supper, the inerrancy of Scripture, etc.; otherwise it is nothing more than a crowd of people with a diversity of opinions.
Some use non-denominationalism as a marketing tool, but they still hold to a strict doctrinal position influenced by a particular denomination-- although they DO NOT LIKE TO PUBLISH THEIR DOCTRINAL POSITIONS, because it would reveal their slant! Interestingly enough, Thom Rainer points out in his book, "Surprising Insights from the Unchurched," that while churches are removing their denominations from their signs, those outside the church actually want to know what group they affiliate with. While in melting pots like South Florida or New York City a denominational title may turn a few away, the Christian culture of the Deep South cries out to know.
Think about it -- if a pastor has no doctrinal position, then how can he preach? Either Jesus is God or He's not... either the Bible is inerrant or it's not... either salvation comes by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone or it does not... and the list goes on. Paul told Timothy to be ready to give an answer to any man who asked. How could he answer if he didn't have a specific system of beliefs? It's been said that "If you stand for nothing, then you'll fall for anything," so you better know where you stand regarding doctrine.
I applaud those who try to be "biblical, not traditional;" but please realize that no church is truly void of all denominationalism. I'll leave you with my final observation..."Today, non-denominationalism has become a denomination."
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Men's Prayer Breakfast
WOW... What a great start to our monthly men's prayer breakfast. We had 14 men (from 22-78 years old) meet us at Shoney's this morning and another 6-7 that took the time to call and say, "I forgot" or "I over slept." We plan to do this on the 3rd Tuesday of every month, so mark your calendars for Tuesday, Oct. 20 at 6:30am. Some had a cup of coffee, others dove into the buffet, some had to leave early for work, and others stayed even after the 7:30 mark. Best of all, men were sharing and praying together. I gave the challenge to start some accountability groups and I believe we have 3 new groups committed to starting in the very near future. I hope this will become a vital aspect in the life of every man at Emmanuel.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Sunday Summary 9.13.09
It was another exciting day at Emmanuel and a day that the words "musical style whiplash" don't adequately cover. Too many churches and individuals focus on musical styles, rather than on Jesus! As we have tried to become all things to all men in the area of music and reach our very diverse traditional, southern community; we have implemented a broad variety into a blended style. Well... this Sunday may have topped them all.
We started the service with our Keen Choir (Sr. Citizens) and they knocked it out of the park! The congregation sang a newer song "Cover the Earth With Your Glory," an older song "Let There be Praise," and even "Because He Lives." Garrett Graham was home for the weekend and sang an accapella hymn and received a standing ovation. All of this backed with drums, electric guitar, bass, acoustic, and even auxiliary percussion. It was amazing!
If that weren't enough, our choir and drama team presented the musical, "East to West." The message and music were phenomenal! It's even more impressive when you realize that we don't even have a Worship Pastor currently on our staff! This was led by laypeople and couldn't have been better. The choir had fun, the congregation was blessed, and it had the tell-tale sign of a GREAT program --- people stayed around and talked for almost an hour after it was over!
I continued the sermon series on James and addressed a problem that had plagued the church since Paul addressed the church at Corinth. The problem is that many who call themselves believers don't behave as they claim to believe. The message focused on the aspects of receiving and applying God's truths.
God blessed us with a sweet spirit, many guests in our services, two children being dedicated, a family joined the church (2 members were baptized recently), and a couple more approaching our pastoral staff about being baptized in the weeks to come! Wow!
The icing on the cake (this whole cake seemed to be made of icing) was my observance in our Deacons meeting. Our men are praying and seeking the next Worship Pastor for Emmanuel. It spoke volumes to me as they prayed, requested more information, and made no decisions. This wasn't because they weren't capable, rather it was because they were spiritual. Too often we rush ahead of God and get ourselves into trouble. Thank you, Deacons, for waiting upon the Lord! With good lay-leadership like we have, we don't have to rush.
Lord, thanks for another great day in your house and for the privilege of leading people into your presence!
We started the service with our Keen Choir (Sr. Citizens) and they knocked it out of the park! The congregation sang a newer song "Cover the Earth With Your Glory," an older song "Let There be Praise," and even "Because He Lives." Garrett Graham was home for the weekend and sang an accapella hymn and received a standing ovation. All of this backed with drums, electric guitar, bass, acoustic, and even auxiliary percussion. It was amazing!
If that weren't enough, our choir and drama team presented the musical, "East to West." The message and music were phenomenal! It's even more impressive when you realize that we don't even have a Worship Pastor currently on our staff! This was led by laypeople and couldn't have been better. The choir had fun, the congregation was blessed, and it had the tell-tale sign of a GREAT program --- people stayed around and talked for almost an hour after it was over!
I continued the sermon series on James and addressed a problem that had plagued the church since Paul addressed the church at Corinth. The problem is that many who call themselves believers don't behave as they claim to believe. The message focused on the aspects of receiving and applying God's truths.
God blessed us with a sweet spirit, many guests in our services, two children being dedicated, a family joined the church (2 members were baptized recently), and a couple more approaching our pastoral staff about being baptized in the weeks to come! Wow!
The icing on the cake (this whole cake seemed to be made of icing) was my observance in our Deacons meeting. Our men are praying and seeking the next Worship Pastor for Emmanuel. It spoke volumes to me as they prayed, requested more information, and made no decisions. This wasn't because they weren't capable, rather it was because they were spiritual. Too often we rush ahead of God and get ourselves into trouble. Thank you, Deacons, for waiting upon the Lord! With good lay-leadership like we have, we don't have to rush.
Lord, thanks for another great day in your house and for the privilege of leading people into your presence!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
God Showed Up!
Have you ever been in one of those services where nothing goes as you expected? I've been in several. I remember the night a church member asked us to pray for his child, I closed my Bible, and people gathered around him to pray... for an hour! God answered that prayer. I can also remember the morning when people started going to the altar during a song. A quartet was singing and people began to get up out of their seats, come to the altar, and weep. I can remember a service when a couple confessed their sin before the church, they were broken and repentant, they asked forgiveness, people gathered to pray around them, prayed, and the church family stayed to encourage them for over an hour after we dismissed. Those services are special!
Well, we had another one of those services last night... on a Wednesday night. I've been teaching a Bible study through Romans and we've been camping on Romans 7 where Paul admitted the civil war he was having between his spirit and his flesh. Last night,we were supposed to get into chapter 8 and help people discover how to "stay up, when life gets you down." I introduced the message, told folks that we can't always live on the mountain top, and shared the story of Moses going up the mountain and coming back down to see God's chosen people worshipping and idol.
From the back, a man said, "I feel like I'm living in the valley and can't get out." Immediately, someone shared a personal story of encouragement. Then another person shared. Another shared scripture. The stories went on. The testimonies went on. The masks came off and before we knew it, there were tears and confessions, and God's Spirit was MOVING!
After 45 minutes, it was obvious that I was not going to ever get to Romans 8. Instead of my best made plans and preparation, God chose to use the testimonies of people to encourage others. My words can never convey the heart-warming and soul-stirring service we experienced. It's amazing what God can do when we just get out of the way. I wish you could have been there.
Well, we had another one of those services last night... on a Wednesday night. I've been teaching a Bible study through Romans and we've been camping on Romans 7 where Paul admitted the civil war he was having between his spirit and his flesh. Last night,we were supposed to get into chapter 8 and help people discover how to "stay up, when life gets you down." I introduced the message, told folks that we can't always live on the mountain top, and shared the story of Moses going up the mountain and coming back down to see God's chosen people worshipping and idol.
From the back, a man said, "I feel like I'm living in the valley and can't get out." Immediately, someone shared a personal story of encouragement. Then another person shared. Another shared scripture. The stories went on. The testimonies went on. The masks came off and before we knew it, there were tears and confessions, and God's Spirit was MOVING!
After 45 minutes, it was obvious that I was not going to ever get to Romans 8. Instead of my best made plans and preparation, God chose to use the testimonies of people to encourage others. My words can never convey the heart-warming and soul-stirring service we experienced. It's amazing what God can do when we just get out of the way. I wish you could have been there.
Monday, September 07, 2009
Sunday Summary 9.6.09
Sunday was amazing. We had a much lower attendance due to Labor Day and a variety of sicknesses, but the spirit in our service was tremendous. Brian G. led the worship (even though he was not feeling well). Brad was back on the drums (he was awesome)! We had several band and praise team members filling in due to the absences. We also had several guests, a sermon addressing the "works" of an authentic Christian, and a fun skit to promote the upcoming MOPS ministry. It reallly was a fun and spiritually challenging day.
There was a good response at the invitation and a couple talked to me about baptism and church membership following the service. Another family also expressed their interest in church membership. God is really moving in the hearts of people and prompting them to take spiritual steps. It's amazing what God can do when His church is moving forward in unity.
While we are growing, we never want to lose our "family" feel, so we took time to brag on one of our teens, Bridgette Smith, who continues to advance in the Hartsville Idol competition, shared the need to cut down a tree for a single mom, shared the need of a church family who is having difficulties, and bragged on several ministry leaders. Our church family responded like champs!
We had no evening service due to Labor Day. While we miss worshiping together, it did give us a chance to visit our daughter at Liberty University. We are REALLY missing her!
There was a good response at the invitation and a couple talked to me about baptism and church membership following the service. Another family also expressed their interest in church membership. God is really moving in the hearts of people and prompting them to take spiritual steps. It's amazing what God can do when His church is moving forward in unity.
While we are growing, we never want to lose our "family" feel, so we took time to brag on one of our teens, Bridgette Smith, who continues to advance in the Hartsville Idol competition, shared the need to cut down a tree for a single mom, shared the need of a church family who is having difficulties, and bragged on several ministry leaders. Our church family responded like champs!
We had no evening service due to Labor Day. While we miss worshiping together, it did give us a chance to visit our daughter at Liberty University. We are REALLY missing her!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)