Welcome back everyone. We are cruising right along on this reading challenge. I hope this reading time has brought forth new insights and challenges to you. Today we are on 1 Samuel 21-22.
Chapter 21:
For me, this is the beginning signs that David was susceptible to choosing his own ways over God's ways. He lies to Ahimelech the priest and says he's on a mission for Saul, instead of truthfully telling him that he was running from Saul. He then eats the Holy Bread used for ceremonies and takes the sword of Goliath that he had slayed years prior. He then goes to enemy territory looking for refuge and pretends to be a madman in the presence of the king so that he doesn't get killed. I just find it odd that a man as trusting in the LORD as David has been up unto this point, begins to take matters into his own hands. This characteristic will hurt him later.
Chapter 22:
David is taking refuge for him and his family in Moab. Was God angry at this or was it necessary because of Saul's disobedience? It doesn't seem quite right to me. Another interesting fact is that David has about 400 men in his ranks that have joined him, even though he is wanted by the king. David had an incredible following! I can't believe Saul is ready to kill the priests! His own military refused the command. This demonstrates how power-crazy Saul had become. He truly felt he was above everything. Only Doeg was willing to kill the priests, and he did, 85 in total.
The take-away for me in these passages: how much of these things are what God wanted for David and how much of it was David winging it? These passages fail to tell us if the LORD is please or even instructing the steps of David at this point. How often do I make moves that are not directed by God in order to protect my own hide? That is my question to take-away. What about you?
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Monday, May 4, 2009
Day 10: 1 Samuel 19-20
Here we go, back to our 28 Day Reading Challenge. I know there are many of you joining us after taking the weekend to catch up on the reading, welcome. Today's reading is from 1 Samuel 19-20.
Chapter 19:
This chapter is crazy. It starts with Saul trying to kill David, only to be thwarted by the people in his own family saving David's life (Jonathon and Michal). Then it turns into a big pentecostal mess and everyone is laying in the floor prophesying. I'm not sure what to take away from this chapter other than it is good to have friends who have your back and who are looking out for you like David had.
Chapter 20:
Sometimes friendship in the LORD can be stronger than blood. Jonathon and David had a special friendship that God had brought together. Jonathon wasn't concerned about his position as waiting king, as many would had been. He was more concerned with the well being of his friend. David flees from Saul and from this point on, he'll be on the run until Saul is dead.
Do I have friends that are this close to me? I believe I really do. It is sad to them embrace at the end because they know it is probably the last time. It makes me long for friendships with that kind of depth to them. That is something for all of us to learn from.
Chapter 19:
This chapter is crazy. It starts with Saul trying to kill David, only to be thwarted by the people in his own family saving David's life (Jonathon and Michal). Then it turns into a big pentecostal mess and everyone is laying in the floor prophesying. I'm not sure what to take away from this chapter other than it is good to have friends who have your back and who are looking out for you like David had.
Chapter 20:
Sometimes friendship in the LORD can be stronger than blood. Jonathon and David had a special friendship that God had brought together. Jonathon wasn't concerned about his position as waiting king, as many would had been. He was more concerned with the well being of his friend. David flees from Saul and from this point on, he'll be on the run until Saul is dead.
Do I have friends that are this close to me? I believe I really do. It is sad to them embrace at the end because they know it is probably the last time. It makes me long for friendships with that kind of depth to them. That is something for all of us to learn from.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Sunday Evening Reflections
It was another rocking day at The Journey Church! Man, I love this church more each and every week. We have the most committed and awesome volunteers. We have a praise band and team that is second to none. We have an elder team that seeks to govern and oversee the body so that it is nourished and growing. We have an incredible staff who tend to the day-to-day operations of the church and to ensure each weekend is stellar. And the best part of it all, we have the best members/attendees of any church. Yeah I might be biased, but I love this church and the spirit of the people. I just salute everyone who is part of The Journey for adding your unique style to what we are becoming.
I thought today was a great day. The message was challenging, yet I felt everyone welcomed the challenge and embraced it. I thought the text-your-question part of the service was really cool, but I'd love to get your feedback on that too. I have never been at a church where questions were welcomed and answered and we had some good questions today, I just hope the answers I gave matched how good they were.
I'd love to get your opinion or feedback on two questions: 1. How did you like the text-your-question in segment, as well as the other interactive elements we added this series so far? 2. How have you enjoyed partaking in Communion every week of this series thus far? Don't be afraid to be honest, but I would love to hear from you.
Last things: first, if you are guy who is interested in getting together with other guys from the church to pray for a short period before starting your day, each week on Monday morning at 7am and Thursday at 8am are two opportunities for you. If interested leave a comment and I'll get with you. Second, next week is the last week of the Everyday Jesus series. I'm pumped about the message and can't wait to give it. Starting the following week, we will begin a new series called: Bailout. We are going to be dealing with God and finances for the next three weeks. Let's just say this: it will not be your typical church sermons about money...I promise. We'll show the bumper video for it next week and give you all invite cards for your friends and neighbors.
I thought today was a great day. The message was challenging, yet I felt everyone welcomed the challenge and embraced it. I thought the text-your-question part of the service was really cool, but I'd love to get your feedback on that too. I have never been at a church where questions were welcomed and answered and we had some good questions today, I just hope the answers I gave matched how good they were.
I'd love to get your opinion or feedback on two questions: 1. How did you like the text-your-question in segment, as well as the other interactive elements we added this series so far? 2. How have you enjoyed partaking in Communion every week of this series thus far? Don't be afraid to be honest, but I would love to hear from you.
Last things: first, if you are guy who is interested in getting together with other guys from the church to pray for a short period before starting your day, each week on Monday morning at 7am and Thursday at 8am are two opportunities for you. If interested leave a comment and I'll get with you. Second, next week is the last week of the Everyday Jesus series. I'm pumped about the message and can't wait to give it. Starting the following week, we will begin a new series called: Bailout. We are going to be dealing with God and finances for the next three weeks. Let's just say this: it will not be your typical church sermons about money...I promise. We'll show the bumper video for it next week and give you all invite cards for your friends and neighbors.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Day 9: 1 Samuel 17-18
Happy Friday to everyone. This is our last day of the week for our reading challenge, we'll pick back up again on Monday. Today's reading is from 1 Samuel 17-18.
These two chapters show the emergence of David onto the scene. The story of David slaying Goliath is the famous one, the one read in every Sunday school in the country. What I enjoy the most about that story is not the fact that the small undersized David beats the giant Goliath, it is why David chose to fight him to begin with. David was not seeking glory or to be the guy everyone thought was a stud. Instead, he was moved by a righteous anger that someone would dare to defy and mock the armies of the Living God. It was for the honor of God, not his own. I think that is the key to the David and Goliath story.
After the battle, Saul becomes jealous of David because he is gaining fame around Israel. David and Jonathon link up to become best friends for the rest of their lives. The next major statement that I think speaks to David's character is when Saul offers him his daughter in marriage and he says, "Who am I, and what is my family in Israel that I should be the king's son-in-law?" There is humility just dripping off that reply. This is why God has chosen David to begin with. He has a heart that reflects what is needed to lead God's people. I think it is extremely important to check ourselves routinely. Are we becoming arrogant? Do we live with too much pride or are we genuinely humble? You see, Saul started off this way too, but we now see where he is. If this aspect of our lives is not monitored daily, we can quickly become too prideful to even notice the change.
Last thought: Much of this book has been about God's anointing of these men for their service. We've also noticed what happens when God removes His anointing. A quote to leave you with for today: R.T. Kendall says, "If I do not experience a fresh anointing every day, it is only a matter of time before I will become yesterday’s man."
Your thoughts from today's reading?
These two chapters show the emergence of David onto the scene. The story of David slaying Goliath is the famous one, the one read in every Sunday school in the country. What I enjoy the most about that story is not the fact that the small undersized David beats the giant Goliath, it is why David chose to fight him to begin with. David was not seeking glory or to be the guy everyone thought was a stud. Instead, he was moved by a righteous anger that someone would dare to defy and mock the armies of the Living God. It was for the honor of God, not his own. I think that is the key to the David and Goliath story.
After the battle, Saul becomes jealous of David because he is gaining fame around Israel. David and Jonathon link up to become best friends for the rest of their lives. The next major statement that I think speaks to David's character is when Saul offers him his daughter in marriage and he says, "Who am I, and what is my family in Israel that I should be the king's son-in-law?" There is humility just dripping off that reply. This is why God has chosen David to begin with. He has a heart that reflects what is needed to lead God's people. I think it is extremely important to check ourselves routinely. Are we becoming arrogant? Do we live with too much pride or are we genuinely humble? You see, Saul started off this way too, but we now see where he is. If this aspect of our lives is not monitored daily, we can quickly become too prideful to even notice the change.
Last thought: Much of this book has been about God's anointing of these men for their service. We've also noticed what happens when God removes His anointing. A quote to leave you with for today: R.T. Kendall says, "If I do not experience a fresh anointing every day, it is only a matter of time before I will become yesterday’s man."
Your thoughts from today's reading?
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Day 8: 1 Samuel 15-16
Welcome back everyone! I just want to say great job to everyone is tracking along with us on the 28 Day reading challenge. We have read half of 1 Samuel already and I pray it is a rich experience for you both interacting with the Scriptures and gleaning from the insights of others. Keep it up!
Today's reading 1 Samuel 15-16
Chapter 15:
I'm struck by how deeply emotionally and spiritually connected Samuel is to Saul's mistakes and the LORD'S regret of making Saul king. It says that Samuel was so deeply moved that he cried out in prayer to the LORD all night (vs 11). The question of all questions is found in this chapter; Samuel says, "What is more pleasing to the LORD: burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice?" Man! Talk about in your face. We have to wrestle with this question still today. It is easy to worry about going through the proper rituals and religious motions, but what about obedience to His voice? That is what really matters. Rebellion is as bad as witchcraft and worshiping idols in the eyes of the LORD (vs 23) - wow! Saul is rejected as king and now the story is about to take a turn.
Chapter 16:
When Samuel goes to find the LORD'S anointed, the LORD tells him, "The LORD doesn't make decisions the way you do! People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at a person's thoughts and intentions (vs 7)." I think this is as applicable today as it was then. I actually did a sermon on this two weeks ago called a Ruthless Invasion. Samuel then anoints David and the journey with David that we all get to witness begins.
Today's reading 1 Samuel 15-16
Chapter 15:
I'm struck by how deeply emotionally and spiritually connected Samuel is to Saul's mistakes and the LORD'S regret of making Saul king. It says that Samuel was so deeply moved that he cried out in prayer to the LORD all night (vs 11). The question of all questions is found in this chapter; Samuel says, "What is more pleasing to the LORD: burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice?" Man! Talk about in your face. We have to wrestle with this question still today. It is easy to worry about going through the proper rituals and religious motions, but what about obedience to His voice? That is what really matters. Rebellion is as bad as witchcraft and worshiping idols in the eyes of the LORD (vs 23) - wow! Saul is rejected as king and now the story is about to take a turn.
Chapter 16:
When Samuel goes to find the LORD'S anointed, the LORD tells him, "The LORD doesn't make decisions the way you do! People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at a person's thoughts and intentions (vs 7)." I think this is as applicable today as it was then. I actually did a sermon on this two weeks ago called a Ruthless Invasion. Samuel then anoints David and the journey with David that we all get to witness begins.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Eliminate the Noise
Do you have a problem eliminating the noise in your life so you can hear God's direction? Do you know someone else who does? If so, CLICK HERE and watch how an everyday relationship with Jesus requires that we eliminate the noise around us.
Day 7: 1 Samuel 13-14
Welcome back everyone. We pick up in 1 Samuel 13-14 today. I appreciate all of you who are reading along and commenting on the readings. It is fun to gain insight from others. If you're new to the challenge, don't feel that you need to go back and catch up, just pick up where we are today.
Chapter 13:
The first thing that stands out to me is that Saul reigned forty-two years. Wow! I didn't think his reign lasted that long. He was thirty when he became king and died at seventy-two as king. For some reason, I had always believed Saul to have died young, only after ruling for a handful of years. This tells me that he spent the majority of his kingship as the one not anointed by God. Interesting.
Then it happens. Saul's fatal move as king that cost him and his family the dynasty (vs 14). Saul chooses to make the sacrifices before Samuel arrives (vs 9-10). It seems like a harsh punishment for a slip in judgment, but it obviously was a bigger deal than I realize. Samuel then tells Saul that God has sought after a man after his own heart (vs 14). I pray I will always be the one who's heart is after God's own heart and not the one being told that God's anointing has passed because of your disobedience.
Chapter 14:
One of the most inspiring chapters in these books and the Bible period. Jonathon charges the Philistine camp with his armor-bearer and a sword and wins (vs 12-14). The rest of Israel is hiding. I love how Jonathon initiates the action. I think to often in our lives and in churches, we are waiting for some glorious sign or parting of the Red Sea before we act, meanwhile, Jonathon shows us that sometimes we have to initiate action in order to see God move on our behalf.
Chapter 13:
The first thing that stands out to me is that Saul reigned forty-two years. Wow! I didn't think his reign lasted that long. He was thirty when he became king and died at seventy-two as king. For some reason, I had always believed Saul to have died young, only after ruling for a handful of years. This tells me that he spent the majority of his kingship as the one not anointed by God. Interesting.
Then it happens. Saul's fatal move as king that cost him and his family the dynasty (vs 14). Saul chooses to make the sacrifices before Samuel arrives (vs 9-10). It seems like a harsh punishment for a slip in judgment, but it obviously was a bigger deal than I realize. Samuel then tells Saul that God has sought after a man after his own heart (vs 14). I pray I will always be the one who's heart is after God's own heart and not the one being told that God's anointing has passed because of your disobedience.
Chapter 14:
One of the most inspiring chapters in these books and the Bible period. Jonathon charges the Philistine camp with his armor-bearer and a sword and wins (vs 12-14). The rest of Israel is hiding. I love how Jonathon initiates the action. I think to often in our lives and in churches, we are waiting for some glorious sign or parting of the Red Sea before we act, meanwhile, Jonathon shows us that sometimes we have to initiate action in order to see God move on our behalf.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Day 6: 1 Samuel 11-12
Today we continue in our 28 Day reading challenge with 1 Samuel 11-12. Everyone is really contributing some great thoughts. Continue reading and letting God speak to you through them. Try to find ways of how these texts can apply to your life today.
Chapter 11:
* I love that fact that the messengers go to find Saul after the threat by King Nahash, they find him plowing the field (vs. 5). This is the king! What is he doing plowing the field? At this point, Saul is still very humble and continues to work hard. Too often in leadership there are people who lose sight of humble service. I believe that leaders should always be willing to do the hard tasks when needed. I also understand that there are times when the king or other leaders will be occupied with other tasks, but this verse really stood out to me. I want to be sure that I always stay humble in my leadership and always stay willing to do the small tasks needed.
* I found it neat that after they won the battle against the Ammonites they reaffirm Saul's kingship (vs. 14). It was almost like a sign of approval. I thought that was interesting.
Chapter 12:
* Only a couple of things rose to the surface for me as I read this chapter. I found myself smiling because Samuel is basically preaching a sermon. He opens with a review of their history of sin and God's rescue, brings it to their current situation by reminding them of their sin of asking for a king, and then he warns them not to turn away from God any more or them and their king will be destroyed. That is straight up textbook preaching right there lol. I did find it interesting that Samuel continuously brings up their sin of asking for a king after just reaffirming Saul as king in the previous chapter. I kept feeling like I wanted to tell Samuel to get over it.
What stood out to you? What things can you take-away from these passages for your own life?
Chapter 11:
* I love that fact that the messengers go to find Saul after the threat by King Nahash, they find him plowing the field (vs. 5). This is the king! What is he doing plowing the field? At this point, Saul is still very humble and continues to work hard. Too often in leadership there are people who lose sight of humble service. I believe that leaders should always be willing to do the hard tasks when needed. I also understand that there are times when the king or other leaders will be occupied with other tasks, but this verse really stood out to me. I want to be sure that I always stay humble in my leadership and always stay willing to do the small tasks needed.
* I found it neat that after they won the battle against the Ammonites they reaffirm Saul's kingship (vs. 14). It was almost like a sign of approval. I thought that was interesting.
Chapter 12:
* Only a couple of things rose to the surface for me as I read this chapter. I found myself smiling because Samuel is basically preaching a sermon. He opens with a review of their history of sin and God's rescue, brings it to their current situation by reminding them of their sin of asking for a king, and then he warns them not to turn away from God any more or them and their king will be destroyed. That is straight up textbook preaching right there lol. I did find it interesting that Samuel continuously brings up their sin of asking for a king after just reaffirming Saul as king in the previous chapter. I kept feeling like I wanted to tell Samuel to get over it.
What stood out to you? What things can you take-away from these passages for your own life?
Monday, April 27, 2009
Day 5: 1 Samuel 9-10
Welcome back everyone! I hope you all had a great weekend. We pick back up today with our 28 Day reading challenge in 1 Samuel 9-10. If you are just joining us, don't feel like you have to have read all the readings prior, just jump in and read the passage for the day and give your thoughts. Here we go!
These are two of my all-time favorite chapters in the Scriptures right here. I know that when we often think of Saul we think of the guy who was rejected by God as king; however, we forget that it was God who first chose him. Before he had his kingship taken from him, God had anointed Saul for the job. Because there are too many parts I like in these two chapters, I'm going to bullet-point out my favorite segments.
Chapter 9:
* I think we need more seers in our days - people who can hear from God (9:9)
* I love the fact that Samuel had been told by God the day before to keep an eye out the next day for a man from the tribe of Benjamin who He would anoint king (9:15-16)
* Saul is humbled by the fact that Samuel has said these things to him and he mentions his family being the least significant. This tells me that with God is doesn't matter what your past is or who your family is or isn't. God anoints those He chooses. (9:21)
Chapter 10:
* Samuel anoints Saul to be the leader of Israel and gives him a picture of what he will experience as he travels ahead. Then he tells him two things that I think every leader should take notice of: First, he tells him that the Spirit of the LORD will come upon him and he will prophesy. Then he says, "you will be changed into a different person.(10:6)" Amazing! Samuel tells Saul that when the Spirit of the LORD comes on you it is going to make a different person. Isn't this true for us as well? When the Spirit of the LORD comes upon us we too should become different people. Second, I think the next verse is a verse every leader should study, reflect on, and wrestle with. Samuel says to him, "After these signs take place, do whatever you think is best, for God will be with you. (10:7)" WOW! Really? He didn't say, "pray really hard before every decision." He tells him to simply do as he feels is best because God is with him. Do you believe this to be a lesson that leaders could learn from? I could understand if Samuel would have told Saul to consult him before any tough decisions or make sure to fast and pray for several days, but he didn't. All he tells him is to do what he thinks is best because God is with him.
* When Saul's friends learn he is prophesying and has been anointed their response is to question where he is from and who his family is (10:11). This was the exact same response to Jesus ("isn't he from Nazareth?"/"isn't this the son of Joseph?"). How many times do we let people's questioning of our ability to keep us from stepping into God's plan for us?
* In response to Saul's friends questioning, one of the neighbors responded by saying, "it doesn't matter who his father is; anyone can become a prophet. (10:12)"
* After declared king of Israel, the Scriptures tells us that God touched the heart of a band of men to surround Saul to be his constant companions (10:26), but there were also detractors (10:27). I pray that I will always have a band of people who God puts on their hearts to support me. We all need that. Unfortunately, there are often too many detractors out there that the companion's voices get drowned out. We have to be like Saul and choose to ignore the voice of the detractors.
What were your thoughts as you read? What questions emerged?
These are two of my all-time favorite chapters in the Scriptures right here. I know that when we often think of Saul we think of the guy who was rejected by God as king; however, we forget that it was God who first chose him. Before he had his kingship taken from him, God had anointed Saul for the job. Because there are too many parts I like in these two chapters, I'm going to bullet-point out my favorite segments.
Chapter 9:
* I think we need more seers in our days - people who can hear from God (9:9)
* I love the fact that Samuel had been told by God the day before to keep an eye out the next day for a man from the tribe of Benjamin who He would anoint king (9:15-16)
* Saul is humbled by the fact that Samuel has said these things to him and he mentions his family being the least significant. This tells me that with God is doesn't matter what your past is or who your family is or isn't. God anoints those He chooses. (9:21)
Chapter 10:
* Samuel anoints Saul to be the leader of Israel and gives him a picture of what he will experience as he travels ahead. Then he tells him two things that I think every leader should take notice of: First, he tells him that the Spirit of the LORD will come upon him and he will prophesy. Then he says, "you will be changed into a different person.(10:6)" Amazing! Samuel tells Saul that when the Spirit of the LORD comes on you it is going to make a different person. Isn't this true for us as well? When the Spirit of the LORD comes upon us we too should become different people. Second, I think the next verse is a verse every leader should study, reflect on, and wrestle with. Samuel says to him, "After these signs take place, do whatever you think is best, for God will be with you. (10:7)" WOW! Really? He didn't say, "pray really hard before every decision." He tells him to simply do as he feels is best because God is with him. Do you believe this to be a lesson that leaders could learn from? I could understand if Samuel would have told Saul to consult him before any tough decisions or make sure to fast and pray for several days, but he didn't. All he tells him is to do what he thinks is best because God is with him.
* When Saul's friends learn he is prophesying and has been anointed their response is to question where he is from and who his family is (10:11). This was the exact same response to Jesus ("isn't he from Nazareth?"/"isn't this the son of Joseph?"). How many times do we let people's questioning of our ability to keep us from stepping into God's plan for us?
* In response to Saul's friends questioning, one of the neighbors responded by saying, "it doesn't matter who his father is; anyone can become a prophet. (10:12)"
* After declared king of Israel, the Scriptures tells us that God touched the heart of a band of men to surround Saul to be his constant companions (10:26), but there were also detractors (10:27). I pray that I will always have a band of people who God puts on their hearts to support me. We all need that. Unfortunately, there are often too many detractors out there that the companion's voices get drowned out. We have to be like Saul and choose to ignore the voice of the detractors.
What were your thoughts as you read? What questions emerged?
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Weekend Reflections
Wow! What an incredible weekend it has been! Saturday I ran the Music City Marathon and completed the grueling 26.2 mile course. I never knew Nashville had that many hills. It has been one of my life goals to complete a marathon and now I can check that off the list. I was a big ole' emotional mess afterward too. I wasn't expecting that to be the case. When I saw Katrina at the end I just started crying. I guess it had to do with how hard I had worked and how hard the race itself was. There were several times that I questioned whether or not I would finish, but in the end, I just kept going and looking for the next mile marker. I'm stoked I finished it and I'm proud of the other Journey folks who ran the half marathon as well.
To cap off a wonder weekend, we had two incredible services today at The Journey. First off, thank you West Campus for being such troopers and making a move over to the Providence Campus on one week notice. It was a great couple of services. We had a total of 7 people who were baptized today and you could sense God's presence in a mighty way today.
A couple of side notes: First, I'm glad everyone hung in there with me after I explained that I wasn't cheating on my wife with another woman, but with busyness and other tasks. I was worried someone would walk out before I could finish the next sentence. Either that or come on stage to punch me :-). Second, I really want everyone to think about the example we did today when I tried to have the conversation with the person in the room with all the crowd noise going. This is unfortunately too close to home for many of us.
Overall, I felt it was a great day in the Kingdom of God. I pray other churches had a fantastic day today as well. I say it every week, but I mean it every time: it is a privilege to pastor this church. Greater things yet to come Journey Church!
Lastly, check out this picture of a distracted couple who are texting on their date with each other. This was a picture taken on family day Friday...eliminate the noise!
To cap off a wonder weekend, we had two incredible services today at The Journey. First off, thank you West Campus for being such troopers and making a move over to the Providence Campus on one week notice. It was a great couple of services. We had a total of 7 people who were baptized today and you could sense God's presence in a mighty way today.
A couple of side notes: First, I'm glad everyone hung in there with me after I explained that I wasn't cheating on my wife with another woman, but with busyness and other tasks. I was worried someone would walk out before I could finish the next sentence. Either that or come on stage to punch me :-). Second, I really want everyone to think about the example we did today when I tried to have the conversation with the person in the room with all the crowd noise going. This is unfortunately too close to home for many of us.
Overall, I felt it was a great day in the Kingdom of God. I pray other churches had a fantastic day today as well. I say it every week, but I mean it every time: it is a privilege to pastor this church. Greater things yet to come Journey Church!
Lastly, check out this picture of a distracted couple who are texting on their date with each other. This was a picture taken on family day Friday...eliminate the noise!
Friday, April 24, 2009
Day 4: 1 Samuel 7-8
Thank you everyone who has been participating in our 28 day reading challenge of 1 and 2 Samuel. There has been great feedback and thoughts given on the passages and I have learned a lot from those of you who have posted. Also, those of you who read, but don't post, feel free to get on periodically and make a comment. We would love to hear your feedback. Don't forget, we will take a break on Saturday and Sunday and then resume on Monday.
Today's reading 1 Samuel 7-8
The irony of these two chapters is fascinating. In Chapter 7 Israel repents of her ways and resubmits herself before the LORD. In doing so, the LORD'S favor is given and they defeat the Philistines and experience peace in their land. I love when Samuel says, "Determine to obey only the LORD; then he will rescue you from the Philistines.(7:3 NLT) "However, once again, a man of God's sons becomes the downfall of the nation. Except this time, Israel wants a king! Then some of the saddest words uttered in Scripture by God, "Do as they say, for it is me they are rejecting, not you. (8:7 NLT)" Regardless of the warnings about how a king would rule them, they were stuck in their idea of what was best for them. How often do we do the exact same thing?
My takeaway: God loves us continuously and receives us back when we repent (Ch. 7), but we often reject this compassionate grace and mercy and still choose our own ways (Ch. 8). God loves us so much, that he will let us choose our demise if that is what we choose. We were created for no king but YHWH, but we too often reject him as our king.
How about you? What things stood out to you? What questions did it raise?
Today's reading 1 Samuel 7-8
The irony of these two chapters is fascinating. In Chapter 7 Israel repents of her ways and resubmits herself before the LORD. In doing so, the LORD'S favor is given and they defeat the Philistines and experience peace in their land. I love when Samuel says, "Determine to obey only the LORD; then he will rescue you from the Philistines.(7:3 NLT) "However, once again, a man of God's sons becomes the downfall of the nation. Except this time, Israel wants a king! Then some of the saddest words uttered in Scripture by God, "Do as they say, for it is me they are rejecting, not you. (8:7 NLT)" Regardless of the warnings about how a king would rule them, they were stuck in their idea of what was best for them. How often do we do the exact same thing?
My takeaway: God loves us continuously and receives us back when we repent (Ch. 7), but we often reject this compassionate grace and mercy and still choose our own ways (Ch. 8). God loves us so much, that he will let us choose our demise if that is what we choose. We were created for no king but YHWH, but we too often reject him as our king.
How about you? What things stood out to you? What questions did it raise?
This Weekend at The Journey
I cannot wait until Sunday! First, I have a message that I can't wait to give. I think what I'm going to challenge the church about this week is the very thing that could set someone into motion on their relationship with God like never before. Don't miss it this week. Second, a most exciting, we have baptisms this weekend at The Journey. These are always big days for us and we love to celebrate the decisions that people are making to follow Jesus and be obedient to Him through baptism.
We have a great service planned. Don't forget that the West Campus will be at Rutland Elementary for a few weeks until the new building is ready. The service times remain the same 9am and 11am. Bring a friend, invite a neighbor, tell a family member...it is going to be an exciting day!
We have a great service planned. Don't forget that the West Campus will be at Rutland Elementary for a few weeks until the new building is ready. The service times remain the same 9am and 11am. Bring a friend, invite a neighbor, tell a family member...it is going to be an exciting day!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Day 3: 1 Samuel 5-6
Glad you're back. For those of you joining us for the first time, don't hesitate to jump in a read and comment on what the passage spoke to you. We are only 3 days in, you have plenty of time to catch up if you want or you can start with today's reading and move forward with us. Today's reading is from 1 Samuel 5-6
These two chapters today are solely about the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark of the Covenant played a huge role in the lives of the Israel. When it had been captured by the Philistines in 1 Samuel 4 it was a sure sign of God's wrath against them. Much of what the Ark represented for Israel was their identity. The Ark is where God's presence resided with them. In it were the 10 commandments, Aaron's rod, and manna from the wilderness.
When the Philistines get the Ark in their own land they begin to realize that it is not what they expected. Their god Dagon's statue had fallen down overnight in the temple as if in reverence to God. They eventually decide to get rid of it because people are getting tumors, getting sick, and growing more fearful. They send the Ark back to Israel and even there 70 men died for looking inside the Ark. This is when the passage that resonated with me the most shows up. They say, "Who is able to stand in the presence of the LORD, this holy God?"
I love that question? Only those who are holy can stand before a holy God.
What are your thoughts from these passages? I'm interested to hear.
These two chapters today are solely about the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark of the Covenant played a huge role in the lives of the Israel. When it had been captured by the Philistines in 1 Samuel 4 it was a sure sign of God's wrath against them. Much of what the Ark represented for Israel was their identity. The Ark is where God's presence resided with them. In it were the 10 commandments, Aaron's rod, and manna from the wilderness.
When the Philistines get the Ark in their own land they begin to realize that it is not what they expected. Their god Dagon's statue had fallen down overnight in the temple as if in reverence to God. They eventually decide to get rid of it because people are getting tumors, getting sick, and growing more fearful. They send the Ark back to Israel and even there 70 men died for looking inside the Ark. This is when the passage that resonated with me the most shows up. They say, "Who is able to stand in the presence of the LORD, this holy God?"
I love that question? Only those who are holy can stand before a holy God.
What are your thoughts from these passages? I'm interested to hear.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Day 2: 1 Samuel 3-4
Great thoughts and comments on yesterday's post and readings. Continue to think through and prayerfully reflect about what you read and post your comments. The best way to discern what God may be speaking to you through these passages is to examine the parts that seem to resonate with you as you read them.
1 Samuel 3-4 (NLT)
* 1 Samuel 3 is great passage for finding encouragement. Samuel is "in training" under Eli and is being raised up as a prophet; however, when the Lord is trying to talk to Samuel he keeps running into Eli to see if he is calling for him. It is good to know that even a great Biblical figure like Samuel didn't always have it together with discerning God's voice. I believe God speaks to us quite frequently throughout our days, but we have a hard time deciphering that voice from all the other noise around us. The second key in the 1 Samuel 3 passage to me was that once he learned to discern God's voice, he obeyed it. Samuel spoke the words the Lord had given him. He became wise in everything he said and was helpful to all the people of Israel. This is the byproduct of obedience and doing as God speaks to us.
1 Samuel 4 is a dramatic scene. Eli's two sons die, the great and mighty Ark of the Covenant is captured, the Israelites are defeated badly in their battle with the Philistines, and then Eli falls backward from his seat and breaks his neck and dies upon receiving the news of the lost battle and his dead sons. Then Eli's daughter-in-law goes into early labor from stress of the day and she dies. Talk about a bad day! This chapter is the fulfillment of God's decree that the house of Eli would suffer because of their wickedness. It is a sober reminder that God will fulfill His promises. That means the blessings He promises, but also the punishment He promises.
At this point in the story the stage is set for Samuel to become the most influential prophet, if not person, in Israel. Tomorrow we will read about what happens as the Philistines have the Ark of the Covenant. What things stood out to you today?
1 Samuel 3-4 (NLT)
* 1 Samuel 3 is great passage for finding encouragement. Samuel is "in training" under Eli and is being raised up as a prophet; however, when the Lord is trying to talk to Samuel he keeps running into Eli to see if he is calling for him. It is good to know that even a great Biblical figure like Samuel didn't always have it together with discerning God's voice. I believe God speaks to us quite frequently throughout our days, but we have a hard time deciphering that voice from all the other noise around us. The second key in the 1 Samuel 3 passage to me was that once he learned to discern God's voice, he obeyed it. Samuel spoke the words the Lord had given him. He became wise in everything he said and was helpful to all the people of Israel. This is the byproduct of obedience and doing as God speaks to us.
1 Samuel 4 is a dramatic scene. Eli's two sons die, the great and mighty Ark of the Covenant is captured, the Israelites are defeated badly in their battle with the Philistines, and then Eli falls backward from his seat and breaks his neck and dies upon receiving the news of the lost battle and his dead sons. Then Eli's daughter-in-law goes into early labor from stress of the day and she dies. Talk about a bad day! This chapter is the fulfillment of God's decree that the house of Eli would suffer because of their wickedness. It is a sober reminder that God will fulfill His promises. That means the blessings He promises, but also the punishment He promises.
At this point in the story the stage is set for Samuel to become the most influential prophet, if not person, in Israel. Tomorrow we will read about what happens as the Philistines have the Ark of the Covenant. What things stood out to you today?
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Let the Journey Begin - 1 Samuel 1-2
I am pumped up about beginning this 28 day reading challenge of 1 & 2 Samuel. Today's reading was from 1 Samuel 1-2 - I read from the New Living Translation. Here are the things that stood out to me and I felt were important to the story:
* The opening chapter of 1 Samuel is describing how the prophet Samuel was born. I particularly like how Hannah's faithfulness to praying and asking God for a son was rewarded to her by God (vs.10-11, 19-20). She didn't give up on the possibility that God could give her favor and a child. One thing I find particularly fascinating is how Hannah made a vow to give her son back to the Lord to work for Him (vs 11) and when she did have a son (Samuel), after a couple of years and he had been weaned, she brought him to the Tabernacle and gave him to Eli the priest to be used for the Lord's work (vs. 25-28). Would you have been able to make that oath and keep it? She was wanting to have a son so badly, but then turned around a gave him to the Lord a few years afterward. That had to be difficult.
* Chapter 2 begins with Hannah singing a song of praise or a prayer of praise. This is reminiscent of the time when the Moses sister led the Israelites in a song of praise after crossing the Red Sea and Mary's song of praise in the book of Luke when she discovered that Elizabeth and her were both pregnant and they celebrated together. From this point in the story, there is a major scene shift taking place. The story turns away from Hannah and her husband Elkanah, and begins to focus on the rise of Samuel to the position of prophet, in which he will one day be responsible for anointing the first king of Israel, and shortly after, it's most prominent king, David.
* The last part of our reading focused on Eli the priest and his wicked sons. Eli's sons were taking advantage of their position by abusing the rights of being priest. They were eating the meat that was supposed to be used for the sacrifice and they were seducing the women who worked at the Tabernacle. Meanwhile Samuel is growing in the ways of the Lord, growing in both stature with God and people (2:26), which is reminiscent of the description of Jesus when he was 12 yrs old at the Temple. The most compelling passage in this entire first two chapters to me were spoken to Eli by a prophet from God who said,
This passage is pointing toward Samuel and his future role. This is also a sober reminder that God is no respecter of persons. God can and will do as He pleases. He doesn't owe anyone any favors. He chooses those He blesses by whether or not they listen and do as He says. That is the key: a person who will do as God says. My prayer for us as a people is that we would be those faithful servants that God raises up because we are careful to do everything that He tells to.
How about you? What things stood out to you as you read? What questions did it stir up?
* The opening chapter of 1 Samuel is describing how the prophet Samuel was born. I particularly like how Hannah's faithfulness to praying and asking God for a son was rewarded to her by God (vs.10-11, 19-20). She didn't give up on the possibility that God could give her favor and a child. One thing I find particularly fascinating is how Hannah made a vow to give her son back to the Lord to work for Him (vs 11) and when she did have a son (Samuel), after a couple of years and he had been weaned, she brought him to the Tabernacle and gave him to Eli the priest to be used for the Lord's work (vs. 25-28). Would you have been able to make that oath and keep it? She was wanting to have a son so badly, but then turned around a gave him to the Lord a few years afterward. That had to be difficult.
* Chapter 2 begins with Hannah singing a song of praise or a prayer of praise. This is reminiscent of the time when the Moses sister led the Israelites in a song of praise after crossing the Red Sea and Mary's song of praise in the book of Luke when she discovered that Elizabeth and her were both pregnant and they celebrated together. From this point in the story, there is a major scene shift taking place. The story turns away from Hannah and her husband Elkanah, and begins to focus on the rise of Samuel to the position of prophet, in which he will one day be responsible for anointing the first king of Israel, and shortly after, it's most prominent king, David.
* The last part of our reading focused on Eli the priest and his wicked sons. Eli's sons were taking advantage of their position by abusing the rights of being priest. They were eating the meat that was supposed to be used for the sacrifice and they were seducing the women who worked at the Tabernacle. Meanwhile Samuel is growing in the ways of the Lord, growing in both stature with God and people (2:26), which is reminiscent of the description of Jesus when he was 12 yrs old at the Temple. The most compelling passage in this entire first two chapters to me were spoken to Eli by a prophet from God who said,
"Then I will raise up a faithful priest who will serve me and do what I tell him to do. I will bless his descendants, and his family will be priests to my anointed kings forever." (2:35)
This passage is pointing toward Samuel and his future role. This is also a sober reminder that God is no respecter of persons. God can and will do as He pleases. He doesn't owe anyone any favors. He chooses those He blesses by whether or not they listen and do as He says. That is the key: a person who will do as God says. My prayer for us as a people is that we would be those faithful servants that God raises up because we are careful to do everything that He tells to.
How about you? What things stood out to you as you read? What questions did it stir up?
Monday, April 20, 2009
28 Day Challenge: 1 and 2 Samuel
I have probably posted about this before, but I will say it again: my favorite two books of the Scriptures are 1 and 2 Samuel. I believe the books are a great insight into leadership, discerning God's voice, obedience, the cost of disobedience, and many other great principles. I try to read these two books once a year because God speaks so powerfully through them each time I do. Not only are there great principles than can be extracted from the text, the story-line of 1 and 2 Samuel are so good that NBC has turned it into a show called Kings. If you desire to journey with me in this challenge, we are going to read two chapters per day. There are a total of 55 chapters between both books, if we read two chapters a day and one on the last day, we will finish in 28 days. We will focus our reading times to Monday through Friday and those days will make up our 28 day challenge. How about it? Would you be willing to read for 28 days in order to hear from God and learn more about the Scriptures?
Decide whether you would like to join me. If you do, each day I will post some thoughts about the reading and what stood out to me. In addition to that, I would love for you to post the things that stood out to you or the questions that it posed to you. This could be a tool in which we grow together throughout the week and God can speak to us collectively.
Hope to see you tomorrow. Reading for tomorrow: 1 Samuel 1 - 2
Decide whether you would like to join me. If you do, each day I will post some thoughts about the reading and what stood out to me. In addition to that, I would love for you to post the things that stood out to you or the questions that it posed to you. This could be a tool in which we grow together throughout the week and God can speak to us collectively.
Hope to see you tomorrow. Reading for tomorrow: 1 Samuel 1 - 2
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Sunday Evening Reflections
It was an awesome day today! I felt everyone was engaged in the service today and I even seen people who had been there last week for the first time. We also had new guests at both campuses who came because people who came last week had invited them...too cool! As I reflect about today's services at The Journey I feel a since of excitement and anticipation well up inside of me. Several things happened today that I want to continue to see happen:
* We had an original song the band opened the service with that Molly McNeil wrote and performed. She even found a way to include "savage" in the lyrics. I would love to see more Journey originals emerge as we move forward and God inspires songs from our hearts
* The principal of West Elementary gave us a farewell thank-you and good-bye since it is our last day to meet there. It was so encouraging to hear her say how much we have been a blessing to her and the school. I hope that everywhere we go, we continue to hear that said of our church
* We used a new element in the service today with the interactive video portion of the message. I would love to hear your feedback on whether or not you liked the video segment being during the sermon. Did it work? Did it get your attention? Give us feedback
Next week we are having both services (9am and 11am) at the Rutland Campus and will continue to do so until the new building is ready...we are hoping for May 17th. Also, we have baptisms next week, get there early to get a seat. I love you Journey Church...keep asking God to change our hearts and we will continue to reach people that most never will.
* We had an original song the band opened the service with that Molly McNeil wrote and performed. She even found a way to include "savage" in the lyrics. I would love to see more Journey originals emerge as we move forward and God inspires songs from our hearts
* The principal of West Elementary gave us a farewell thank-you and good-bye since it is our last day to meet there. It was so encouraging to hear her say how much we have been a blessing to her and the school. I hope that everywhere we go, we continue to hear that said of our church
* We used a new element in the service today with the interactive video portion of the message. I would love to hear your feedback on whether or not you liked the video segment being during the sermon. Did it work? Did it get your attention? Give us feedback
Next week we are having both services (9am and 11am) at the Rutland Campus and will continue to do so until the new building is ready...we are hoping for May 17th. Also, we have baptisms next week, get there early to get a seat. I love you Journey Church...keep asking God to change our hearts and we will continue to reach people that most never will.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Friday Items
It is almost the weekend and I'm pumped! Most people live for the weekend because they can't stand their job, but for me the weekend is when my job has its most important day. I'm anticipating a big day this Sunday at The Journey. I am continuing our new series: Everyday Jesus. I'm going to move from the cross and the grave to talk about how we go about living in a relationship with God instead of just simply believing in Him. I'm hoping that we have some return guests with us that stumbled in on Easter and perhaps enjoyed their time at the church. By the way...GET TO CHURCH ON TIME, MOLLY MCNEIL IS OPENING THE SERVICE WITH A SONG SHE WROTE AND YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS IT!!!
I'm also excited for the weekend because I'm heading up to Knoxville tomorrow morning with my son and 8 other guys from the church who love Tennessee Vols football. We are going to watch the Orange and White Game and see our new look team and coaching staff for the first time. We are all extremely excited, plus, we all need a football fix as we wait until the fall.
Lastly, I want to introduce you all to my bud and Journey Executive/Campus Pastor Shawn Allen to the blogosphere. He is starting a BLOG that will introduce you to his journey from looking for a church several years ago to leaving a position as a SGT on the police force to become a full-time minister. I encourage you to pop by his blog and encourage him.
Have a great weekend everyone!
I'm also excited for the weekend because I'm heading up to Knoxville tomorrow morning with my son and 8 other guys from the church who love Tennessee Vols football. We are going to watch the Orange and White Game and see our new look team and coaching staff for the first time. We are all extremely excited, plus, we all need a football fix as we wait until the fall.
Lastly, I want to introduce you all to my bud and Journey Executive/Campus Pastor Shawn Allen to the blogosphere. He is starting a BLOG that will introduce you to his journey from looking for a church several years ago to leaving a position as a SGT on the police force to become a full-time minister. I encourage you to pop by his blog and encourage him.
Have a great weekend everyone!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
BIG ANNOUNCEMENT
I have a big announcement to make: this Sunday is going to be our last Sunday at West Elementary School. We are going to have to pay an unfair amount of rent to simply stay there until the building in Lebanon is ready. So....we are going to move the West Elementary 9am service to the Providence campus for an estimated 3 weeks. The service times will remain the same: 9am and 11am. The baptisms that were scheduled for this Sunday will be delayed one week in order to do them all at the Providence campus when we move. We hope this is not a major inconvenience for you and your family, we are simply trying to be wise stewards with our money as we seek to get into the new building.
Our target date to be meeting in the new Lebanon building is May 17th 2009. We could be in there sooner or possibly a week or two after. If you have questions, please contact Todd Bates the campus pastor of West or John Griffin the church administrator.
The countdown to moving in getting closer...
Our target date to be meeting in the new Lebanon building is May 17th 2009. We could be in there sooner or possibly a week or two after. If you have questions, please contact Todd Bates the campus pastor of West or John Griffin the church administrator.
The countdown to moving in getting closer...
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
The Pains of Growth
Growing is difficult. It doesn't matter if it is a family that's growing, physically growing, spiritual growth, or a church growing - growing can be painful. I'm discovering more and more that change is inevitable, but change can hurt. Even when change is good, change is difficult. As a father and husband who is about to have another child, I'm learning about the pains of growth. As a follower of Jesus who is wanting to go deeper with my Lord, I'm learning about the pains of growth. As a man who is training for a full marathon, I'm learning about the pains of growth. As a pastor of a church that is thriving and seeing people come to faith in Christ, I'm learning about the pains of growth. We all want to grow. What we tend to forget is that to grow means to change, and change is the thing we most resist in our lives. We can choose to never change, but we essentially choose to never grow when we make that choice.
How about you? What areas of your life right now are you experiencing growing pains? Do you resist the change needed in order to grow or do you adjust to change? Resistance is futile. We fight harder to keep things as they are because we live with a false sense of security. The truth remains: anything worth doing or becoming will require change, which always brings the pains of growth.
How about you? What areas of your life right now are you experiencing growing pains? Do you resist the change needed in order to grow or do you adjust to change? Resistance is futile. We fight harder to keep things as they are because we live with a false sense of security. The truth remains: anything worth doing or becoming will require change, which always brings the pains of growth.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Living Post-Resurrection Lives
What do imagine it was like for the disciples of Jesus the day after they first learned that he had been raised from the dead? Do you think they slept any that night? We don't know a whole lot about the day after they had first learned of the miraculous Easter events, but we do know is that their lives were never the same. We do know that they became the witnesses of the gospel around the world and most of them died for proclaiming and living post-resurrection lives.
How about us? Do we celebrate the Easter events and let it make us feel good for a little bit, but then go about our lives as we did before? If we truly understand what happened on the cross and the significance of the empty tomb, it is impossible to continue on with a "business as usual" mentality.
The Scriptures say, "for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy." Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers," - 1 Peter 1:16-18 (NIV)
I believe Peter's words are a great challenge for us. We are to be holy, because God is holy. He didn't redeem us so that we could keep living as we always have and simply run to God if we need Him. We need to begin focusing on living post-resurrection lives. Some of the most exciting events in the lives of the disciples happened after the resurrection!
How about us? Do we celebrate the Easter events and let it make us feel good for a little bit, but then go about our lives as we did before? If we truly understand what happened on the cross and the significance of the empty tomb, it is impossible to continue on with a "business as usual" mentality.
The Scriptures say, "for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy." Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers," - 1 Peter 1:16-18 (NIV)
I believe Peter's words are a great challenge for us. We are to be holy, because God is holy. He didn't redeem us so that we could keep living as we always have and simply run to God if we need Him. We need to begin focusing on living post-resurrection lives. Some of the most exciting events in the lives of the disciples happened after the resurrection!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Sunday Evening Reflections
This was by far the most exciting day I have been a part of since being in ministry. It was an amazing Easter Sunday at The Journey. I was so grateful for all the hard work everyone put in to prepare the service and to invite people to be there. We had all-time record numbers today and many who made decisions to follow Jesus. I give God all the praise for what He did.
I started my teaching series: Everyday Jesus. I hope to continue over the next four weeks to describe what it looks like to walk in a relationship with God. I want to focus on how we can move from simply believing in God and move to knowing God. Today I wanted to layout the foundations of the series by describing how the death and resurrection of Jesus made a relationship with God even possible. I wanted to dive into the death and resurrection at a deeper level and try to extract the details that give it such meaning. The details matter. If we can truly understand the Easter events I believe that Christians would live their faith much more avidly than simply being seasonal church attendees. You can watch the sermon online sometime this week or any other sermon from the past several series here.
You do not want to miss the rest of this series. We have some really cool features that we are about to incorporate into the services. You will have to be there to find out what they are. Also, baptisms are next week and we have many who are stepping into the waters to be baptized. Providence campus is a 11am service beginning next week - don't forget. Have a good night Journey peeps, I'm honored to serve as your pastor.
I started my teaching series: Everyday Jesus. I hope to continue over the next four weeks to describe what it looks like to walk in a relationship with God. I want to focus on how we can move from simply believing in God and move to knowing God. Today I wanted to layout the foundations of the series by describing how the death and resurrection of Jesus made a relationship with God even possible. I wanted to dive into the death and resurrection at a deeper level and try to extract the details that give it such meaning. The details matter. If we can truly understand the Easter events I believe that Christians would live their faith much more avidly than simply being seasonal church attendees. You can watch the sermon online sometime this week or any other sermon from the past several series here.
You do not want to miss the rest of this series. We have some really cool features that we are about to incorporate into the services. You will have to be there to find out what they are. Also, baptisms are next week and we have many who are stepping into the waters to be baptized. Providence campus is a 11am service beginning next week - don't forget. Have a good night Journey peeps, I'm honored to serve as your pastor.
Friday, April 10, 2009
This Weekend at The Journey
I'm beyond excited for this Sunday at the Journey Church. We are celebrating Easter this weekend and are anticipating large crowds to join us. We are beginning a brand new series entitled: Everyday Jesus. We are going to look at what a relationship in which we "know" God replaces simply having a "belief" in God. If you don't have a church that you actively attend and are looking for somewhere to attend on Easter, I want to invite you to one of our two campuses for worship.
We meet at West Elementary School in Mount Juliet @ 9am and at Rutland Elementary School behind Providence at 10:30am.
We have a very exciting Sunday planned that will be intense from the first second we begin. We also have some exciting things for the Children's ministry to participate in. If you have questions or need more information, visit our website at www.thejourneytn.org
Happy Good Friday everyone! Reflect today on the blood shed and the body broken for you today.
We meet at West Elementary School in Mount Juliet @ 9am and at Rutland Elementary School behind Providence at 10:30am.
We have a very exciting Sunday planned that will be intense from the first second we begin. We also have some exciting things for the Children's ministry to participate in. If you have questions or need more information, visit our website at www.thejourneytn.org
Happy Good Friday everyone! Reflect today on the blood shed and the body broken for you today.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
All Followers of Jesus Should Be In Church (Part 2)
In this post I'll be looking at the last two reasons why I believe all followers of Jesus should be a part of a church. I mentioned the first two reasons in Part 1. I'm sure there are more reasons that could be added, but these are just a few that I felt were important to mention.
#3 - We accomplish more TOGETHER than we do on our own
The momentum and horse-power generated by a healthy, active, living congregation can change things. When a collective group of Jesus followers put their focus and resources toward a cause, mountains can indeed be moved. We can do things as individuals that have a great impact on the Kingdom, but when we link arms with others and find our place on the team it is an UNSTOPPABLE FORCE! We have all been gifted to make the body of Christ complete for her mission. If you are not reporting for duty, it is like a baseball team with 8 players or a football team with 10. You could be the missing link that completes the team and allows for exponential impact to occur. The Church is a change agent and beacon of hope for a world in need. When the church functions and acts as it was created to, it is most magnetic movement that anyone can be a part of.
#4 - The Church is the only entity Jesus left behind
The church was Jesus' idea, not man's idea. Jesus is the one who encouraged our meeting together, sharing together, and meeting of needs for each other. It was Jesus who demonstrated and modeled community by living with the disciples during his three years of ministry. It was Jesus who declared that he would build his church and the gates of hell would not prevail against it. If the one who died for your sins and gave his life so that you would know grace, mercy, and forgiveness wanted you to meet with others who had found that same grace, why would you trust him for salvation, but not trust him when he commands you to do something? We are not called to a "Me and Jesus" mentality. It is and has always been a "We and Jesus" faith. We have personal decisions and choices as individuals we have to make, but our faith is practiced in community with others, geared toward extending the hand to those on the outside, while we grow and live life together on the inside. The church is Jesus' idea. If he thinks it is a good idea, who are we to question? How self-righteous are we if we think we know better for ourselves than the one who gave himself for us?
#3 - We accomplish more TOGETHER than we do on our own
The momentum and horse-power generated by a healthy, active, living congregation can change things. When a collective group of Jesus followers put their focus and resources toward a cause, mountains can indeed be moved. We can do things as individuals that have a great impact on the Kingdom, but when we link arms with others and find our place on the team it is an UNSTOPPABLE FORCE! We have all been gifted to make the body of Christ complete for her mission. If you are not reporting for duty, it is like a baseball team with 8 players or a football team with 10. You could be the missing link that completes the team and allows for exponential impact to occur. The Church is a change agent and beacon of hope for a world in need. When the church functions and acts as it was created to, it is most magnetic movement that anyone can be a part of.
#4 - The Church is the only entity Jesus left behind
The church was Jesus' idea, not man's idea. Jesus is the one who encouraged our meeting together, sharing together, and meeting of needs for each other. It was Jesus who demonstrated and modeled community by living with the disciples during his three years of ministry. It was Jesus who declared that he would build his church and the gates of hell would not prevail against it. If the one who died for your sins and gave his life so that you would know grace, mercy, and forgiveness wanted you to meet with others who had found that same grace, why would you trust him for salvation, but not trust him when he commands you to do something? We are not called to a "Me and Jesus" mentality. It is and has always been a "We and Jesus" faith. We have personal decisions and choices as individuals we have to make, but our faith is practiced in community with others, geared toward extending the hand to those on the outside, while we grow and live life together on the inside. The church is Jesus' idea. If he thinks it is a good idea, who are we to question? How self-righteous are we if we think we know better for ourselves than the one who gave himself for us?
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
All Followers of Jesus Should Be In Church (Part 1)
You may think that the name of this post is a no-brainer, but it isn't. Many people today call themselves Christians and have not actively attended church in years. These are not bad people. I believe that many of these people have a right to have not attended church; after all, many churches are boring, outdated, and irrelevant to the issues of people's lives. However, it is my belief that the Christian faith is best lived in relationship with other believers and that reaching our full potential as a human being can only come as we are growing in our relationship with God. Following Jesus has never been something that happens in isolation. If you want a religion that is all about what you do on your own, go try Buddhism. That is not how the Christian faith was ever intended to operate. Everyone has individual and personal faith commitments they must make, but the practicing of that faith is lived out with others.
Here are two reasons out of four why followers of Jesus should attend church:
#1 - Church can actually be fun
I know that some of you read this and have no belief that it is possible, but it is. Church can actually be fun, inspirational, and something you do because you like it, not just because it is some silly obligation. It is actually possible to go to church and leave feeling better than what you came in. It is okay to go to church and laugh, smile, and see people you like. There is nothing in the Bible that says church must be stiff, stagnant, and dreadful - yet this is often people's experience. Remedy: find a church that you look forward to waking up on Sunday's for. Look for a church that you would be willing to TIVO the game instead of using the game as an excuse to miss.
#2 - Church can help you grow in your relationship with God
God doesn't want you to attend church because it makes Him feel good, He wants you to attend church because its good for you. When we are in relationship with others who accept us for who we are, who know we struggle, who know we fail, yet we are still accepted and loved, that is the definition of community. We were never meant to "do it on our own" when it comes to faith. The Bible speaks of "iron sharpening iron." We are there for each other. We learn from each other. We challenge each other. Being a part of a church gives you perspective other than your own - which is extremely important to growing as a person. Ultimately, you cannot say you love God, yet not love others. I know the knock on churches is that they are full of hypocrites, but guess what: so is your work, your family, and every other group of people around you? Everyone is a hypocrite. The difference is that those in the church recognize their need for grace and transformation. Remedy: find a church you feel comfortable making friends with and that will challenge you to grow as a follower of Jesus.
To be continued...
Here are two reasons out of four why followers of Jesus should attend church:
#1 - Church can actually be fun
I know that some of you read this and have no belief that it is possible, but it is. Church can actually be fun, inspirational, and something you do because you like it, not just because it is some silly obligation. It is actually possible to go to church and leave feeling better than what you came in. It is okay to go to church and laugh, smile, and see people you like. There is nothing in the Bible that says church must be stiff, stagnant, and dreadful - yet this is often people's experience. Remedy: find a church that you look forward to waking up on Sunday's for. Look for a church that you would be willing to TIVO the game instead of using the game as an excuse to miss.
#2 - Church can help you grow in your relationship with God
God doesn't want you to attend church because it makes Him feel good, He wants you to attend church because its good for you. When we are in relationship with others who accept us for who we are, who know we struggle, who know we fail, yet we are still accepted and loved, that is the definition of community. We were never meant to "do it on our own" when it comes to faith. The Bible speaks of "iron sharpening iron." We are there for each other. We learn from each other. We challenge each other. Being a part of a church gives you perspective other than your own - which is extremely important to growing as a person. Ultimately, you cannot say you love God, yet not love others. I know the knock on churches is that they are full of hypocrites, but guess what: so is your work, your family, and every other group of people around you? Everyone is a hypocrite. The difference is that those in the church recognize their need for grace and transformation. Remedy: find a church you feel comfortable making friends with and that will challenge you to grow as a follower of Jesus.
To be continued...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)