I hope you are enjoying a blest holiday season with family and friends. Looking ahead to 2009 I covet the advancement of your ministry – sustained and strengthened personal integrity, a deepening walk with our Lord, a healthy and happy family, financial blessing, continued spiritual growth of those under your ministry, and many more souls coming into the Kingdom of God through your ministry and church. I pray your ministry will expand to the glory of God and for the sake of souls.
Ministry presents many challenges, not the least of which is growth. Jesus exemplified effective steps to deal with expanding ministry. There are many measures of success and one is growing crowds. As the crowds increased, “Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve – designating them apostles – that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons.” (Mark 3:13-15).
Success can drive you. You find yourself in demand with increased expectations placed upon you. Jesus experienced this and took time to get away from the demands as He went up on a mountainside. Jesus set priorities and boundaries to maintain His effectiveness and sustainability.
Success can deceive you into thinking you have all the answers. In Luke’s account it says, “…Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God…” (Luke 6:12). Jesus prayed before making the important decision of selecting apostles. His success did not relieve Him of the need to seek the Father’s will. Humility remained characteristic of Jesus throughout His life.
Success can isolate you. Jesus called to him those He wanted to be with Him and to do ministry. Ministering as a “lone ranger” is perilous in many ways and Jesus invited people into His life and ministry. In so doing He provided for them and Himself an important level of accountability. I don’t think the Son of God needed accountability, but He conducted His ministry in an exemplary way to show us an effective way forward, given our vulnerability to sin, and error.
Success can also entrap you. On the mountainside Jesus was preparing to delegate ministry to meet immediate ministry needs and provide for future succession. The work was too great for one person. He designated them apostles and began the process of training. I find it interesting that He selected “those He wanted”. Since God shapes the desires of the heart of those who seek Him, I think Jesus chose people He liked, and people He believed the Father had called to be apostles.
We face many challenges in ministry, such as sacrifice, disappointment, spiritual warfare, problematic personalities, etc. – and the unexpected challenge of success. Don’t let it defeat you.
Cheering you on,
Don Steiger
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Leadership and Listening
Moses is recognized as one of the greatest leaders of all time and he demonstrated the important skill of listening. Early on in his leadership of Israel he assumed responsibility to judge all the people (Exodus 18:13). His father-in-law, Jethro, observed this exhausting and inefficient process, and shared some very wise counsel with Moses.
First he told Moses, “You must be the people’s representative before God and bring their disputes to him.” (Ex 18:19b). Prayer was the first priority. Second, he told Moses to, “Teach them the decrees and laws, and show them the way to live and the duties they are to perform.” (Ex 18:20). Teaching was the second priority. It would benefit all of Israel, prepare leaders, and eliminate some of the counseling and mediation. Third, he told Moses, “select capable men from all the people – men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain – and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. Have them serve as judges for the people at all times…” (Ex 18:21-22a). Wise delegation was the third priority. Fourth, he told Moses, “have them bring every difficult case to you; the simple cases they can decide themselves.” (Ex 18:22c). Moses’ oversight and measured involvement was the fourth priority.
The anticipated result comes next, “That will make your load lighter, because they will share it with you. If you do this and God so commands, you will be able to stand the strain, and all these people will go home satisfied.” (Ex 18:22d-23). This was sound advice and, “Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said.” (Ex 18:24).
Effective listening requires humility, patience, discernment, and a willingness to change. “Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.” (Numbers 12:3). A humble person knows others may have a better idea and are willing to listen.
Patience is also necessary to the skill of effective listening. Sometimes you have more knowledge on the subject than the adviser, or you have already carefully considered the idea they are suggesting. So, you bite your tongue and listen because it is important to the adviser to share their thoughts and he or she might surprise you with a great idea. It’s like mining for gold - you have to sort through a certain amount of information to discover the really helpful ideas.
Discernment is critical. When you are listening you have to sort out what is valuable. Receive advice without making promises so you can take time to determine if it is helpful. The freedom to disregard advice is as important as the willingness to act on advice. Seek out advisers you think can help and don’t just rely on those who come to you of their own accord. Pray over the advice you receive to clarify what God is saying.
A willingness to change is the final ingredient in effective listening. The methods we employ should be fluid. At the beginning Moses’ method of judging the people may have been the only way to get the job done. However, over time he would have burned out, potential leaders would have been deprived of opportunity, and the needs of the people would not have been met. Moses would have missed a vital step forward, if he had not listened to Jethro.
As one of my teachers used to say, “Be a good listener”.
First he told Moses, “You must be the people’s representative before God and bring their disputes to him.” (Ex 18:19b). Prayer was the first priority. Second, he told Moses to, “Teach them the decrees and laws, and show them the way to live and the duties they are to perform.” (Ex 18:20). Teaching was the second priority. It would benefit all of Israel, prepare leaders, and eliminate some of the counseling and mediation. Third, he told Moses, “select capable men from all the people – men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain – and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. Have them serve as judges for the people at all times…” (Ex 18:21-22a). Wise delegation was the third priority. Fourth, he told Moses, “have them bring every difficult case to you; the simple cases they can decide themselves.” (Ex 18:22c). Moses’ oversight and measured involvement was the fourth priority.
The anticipated result comes next, “That will make your load lighter, because they will share it with you. If you do this and God so commands, you will be able to stand the strain, and all these people will go home satisfied.” (Ex 18:22d-23). This was sound advice and, “Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said.” (Ex 18:24).
Effective listening requires humility, patience, discernment, and a willingness to change. “Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.” (Numbers 12:3). A humble person knows others may have a better idea and are willing to listen.
Patience is also necessary to the skill of effective listening. Sometimes you have more knowledge on the subject than the adviser, or you have already carefully considered the idea they are suggesting. So, you bite your tongue and listen because it is important to the adviser to share their thoughts and he or she might surprise you with a great idea. It’s like mining for gold - you have to sort through a certain amount of information to discover the really helpful ideas.
Discernment is critical. When you are listening you have to sort out what is valuable. Receive advice without making promises so you can take time to determine if it is helpful. The freedom to disregard advice is as important as the willingness to act on advice. Seek out advisers you think can help and don’t just rely on those who come to you of their own accord. Pray over the advice you receive to clarify what God is saying.
A willingness to change is the final ingredient in effective listening. The methods we employ should be fluid. At the beginning Moses’ method of judging the people may have been the only way to get the job done. However, over time he would have burned out, potential leaders would have been deprived of opportunity, and the needs of the people would not have been met. Moses would have missed a vital step forward, if he had not listened to Jethro.
As one of my teachers used to say, “Be a good listener”.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Tough Times
We have been watching a significant economic downturn that is affecting all of us. Many in our nation have suffered loss from storms and fires in recent months. At the same time we are navigating through the ongoing political campaign. Decisions made in voting booths will impact future Supreme Court appointees, abortion, the economy, our national security, and more. In it all we have an unchanging, all-powerful God. Challenging times are a motivation to seek God, and seek Him we should. Challenging times also present opportunities for the church to advance the good news of Jesus Christ. When people are hurting they are more receptive to the gospel.
After ministering to the Samaritan woman at the well in Sychar, Jesus said to his disciples “I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.” (John 4:35b). The context of this statement indicates the “ripe harvest” is hurting people. The woman at the well had been married five times and was living with a man who was not her husband. Her life was a mess and she responded to the life-giving words of Jesus. He told her “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13-14).
What a great message we carry to the world. I pray God will empower us in these hurting times to share His message effectively.
I also noted that Jesus ministered to this woman at a moment when He was tired (John 4:4-6). The concerns of the world and our labor can leave us tired, but sometimes it is in those moments that God presents new opportunities. When Jesus seized the opportunity to minister to this woman, He was energized by the Holy Spirit. The disciples went to get food while Jesus spoke to her and when they returned they urged him to eat “But he said to them, I have food to eat that you know nothing about … My food … is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.” (John 4:32 and 34). It is important to point out that Jesus came aside to rest at times in His ministry, but there were also times when He pressed through the weariness to achieve the Father’s will. When that was appropriate the Father provided added strength, and I believe He will for us as well.
After ministering to the Samaritan woman at the well in Sychar, Jesus said to his disciples “I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.” (John 4:35b). The context of this statement indicates the “ripe harvest” is hurting people. The woman at the well had been married five times and was living with a man who was not her husband. Her life was a mess and she responded to the life-giving words of Jesus. He told her “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13-14).
What a great message we carry to the world. I pray God will empower us in these hurting times to share His message effectively.
I also noted that Jesus ministered to this woman at a moment when He was tired (John 4:4-6). The concerns of the world and our labor can leave us tired, but sometimes it is in those moments that God presents new opportunities. When Jesus seized the opportunity to minister to this woman, He was energized by the Holy Spirit. The disciples went to get food while Jesus spoke to her and when they returned they urged him to eat “But he said to them, I have food to eat that you know nothing about … My food … is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.” (John 4:32 and 34). It is important to point out that Jesus came aside to rest at times in His ministry, but there were also times when He pressed through the weariness to achieve the Father’s will. When that was appropriate the Father provided added strength, and I believe He will for us as well.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Rest in Christ
REFLECTIONS ON THE LAST TWO WEEKS: I had the privilege of joining Pastor Scott Bottoms and the leadership team of High Plains Christian Center for a retreat September 25-27. I filled in at Strasburg for a few weeks before moving to California over seven years ago and it was wonderful to see faithful leaders still working in the church and the addition of new leaders now part of the team. God is doing wonderful things in this church.
On October 5 Loretta and I joined Pastor Gene Roncone and the congregation of Aurora First Assembly for a ground breaking celebration at their new building site. The construction of their new facility is the culmination of many years of planning and work. I believe the Lord has great things in store for the future of this fine congregation.
In between those two exciting experiences was some normal work and then some heartache and complexity as I worked on some difficult situations in the Kingdom of God. Reflecting on the contrast between flourishing situations and hurting situations I realized no matter where you are, life can be very challenging. If you are “on a roll”, you can find yourself overwhelmed by the responsibility, and if you are “under a burden” you can find yourself overwhelmed by the pain. But, Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:29-30.
The law was seen as a yoke by Matthew’s Hebrew audience and the introduction of grace in the person, teaching, and work of Jesus Christ provided relief from the futile dependence upon one’s own righteousness. Being yoked together with Jesus Christ first of all means we are forgiven of our sins and in right standing with God through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Second, we find assurance that in Christ we can find rest for our souls in the midst of the challenges of life “For we are God’s fellow workers...” 1 Corinthians 3:8. We are yoked together with Christ in the work He has called us to do. He takes the heavier part of the load and shapes the yoke to fit us. To find His rest; come to Him, take His yoke upon you, and keep learning from Him.
On October 5 Loretta and I joined Pastor Gene Roncone and the congregation of Aurora First Assembly for a ground breaking celebration at their new building site. The construction of their new facility is the culmination of many years of planning and work. I believe the Lord has great things in store for the future of this fine congregation.
In between those two exciting experiences was some normal work and then some heartache and complexity as I worked on some difficult situations in the Kingdom of God. Reflecting on the contrast between flourishing situations and hurting situations I realized no matter where you are, life can be very challenging. If you are “on a roll”, you can find yourself overwhelmed by the responsibility, and if you are “under a burden” you can find yourself overwhelmed by the pain. But, Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:29-30.
The law was seen as a yoke by Matthew’s Hebrew audience and the introduction of grace in the person, teaching, and work of Jesus Christ provided relief from the futile dependence upon one’s own righteousness. Being yoked together with Jesus Christ first of all means we are forgiven of our sins and in right standing with God through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Second, we find assurance that in Christ we can find rest for our souls in the midst of the challenges of life “For we are God’s fellow workers...” 1 Corinthians 3:8. We are yoked together with Christ in the work He has called us to do. He takes the heavier part of the load and shapes the yoke to fit us. To find His rest; come to Him, take His yoke upon you, and keep learning from Him.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
A Life Well Lived
Last week it was my privilege to participate in the memorial service for Don Farmer. Don left a deep impression on all who knew him. He is a person who modeled Christ-like qualities and left a wonderful example to follow. During the course of the memorial service the following verse kept coming to my mind: “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13. Don Farmer was a man of faith. He believed the bible to be God’s word and lived his life accordingly. He obeyed God’s call to ministry and served faithfully. His influence endures in the lives of all who follow Jesus Christ today because of his ministry. Don Farmer was a man of hope. He is in the presence of Jesus Christ today because he took the God of Hope at His word when He said “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23. I remember Don Farmer as a positive person who lived in hope for time and eternity. Don Farmer was a man of godly love. Don’s family and friends repeatedly spoke of his love for people. One mutual friend said to me “Don taught me how to love people no matter what”. Jesus said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35. There is no doubt about it - Don Farmer is a disciple of Jesus Christ. Be encouraged! Our brother in Christ, Don Farmer, demonstrated the value of spending a life time living for Jesus Christ.
Monday, August 18, 2008
A Second Wind
When playing sports as a boy I remember the experience of a “second wind”. I would play for awhile and begin to experience exhaustion, but as I continued I experienced an unexpected surge of renewed energy. Life is hard at times, even for people who are obedient to Jesus Christ. Though God allows such times, He is present to help us. In the course of 48 hours the Apostle Paul experienced a succession of events that would discourage the strongest person. It was a very exhausting time in his life and he needed a “second wind”.
The record of this grueling scenario begins in Acts 21:17. Paul was in Jerusalem and after giving the church leaders a report on his missionary ministry he was asked to join four brothers who were going through purification rites to demonstrate to other Jerusalem believers Paul’s respect for the law. Paul agreed to do so and upon entering the temple was falsely accused of teaching against the law and bringing gentiles into the temple. “The whole city was aroused, and the people came running from all directions. Seizing Paul, they dragged him from the temple” where they tried to kill him. The Roman authorities intervened saving Paul’s life. As they were taking him away, he asked to address the crowd. Receiving the commander’s permission he proceeded to tell them of his conversion. When he said the Lord told him to go to the gentiles the crowd raised their voices and shouted, “Rid the earth of him! He’s not fit to live.” This ministry experience was not going well.
Next the commander ordered Paul be taken to the barracks, beaten, and questioned. As the soldiers were preparing to flog him, Paul told them he was a Roman citizen and narrowly avoided a severe beating. Then the next day he was taken before the Sanhedrin where he rebuked the high priest. The priest ordered that Paul be struck on the mouth and Paul in anger said, “God will strike you, you whitewashed wall. You sit there to judge me according to the law, yet you yourself violate the law by commanding that I be struck!” When he was told he was speaking to the high priest he said, “Brothers, I did not realize that he was the high priest for it is written, ‘Do not speak evil about the ruler of your people.’” Uncontrolled anger, back-pedalling, damage control – it was not going well.
Paul then seized upon the theological disagreements of the Pharisees and Sadducees by declaring himself a Pharisee. The two groups began to argue and physically pull Paul in different directions to the point the Roman commander was afraid he would be pulled to pieces. He rescued Paul from the violence, and imprisoned him in the barracks. “The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, ‘Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.’” Acts 23:11.
First of all, the Lord was with Paul in this dark moment. Second, He imparted courage. Third, He provided divine perspective when He said, “As you have testified about me in Jerusalem”. From a human perspective Paul’s ministry effort in Jerusalem was a failure, but not in the view of the Lord. There were no souls added to the kingdom, no churches planted, and no additions to the existing church in Jerusalem. But, Paul did what God wanted him to do. Fourth, He gave Paul hope for the future.
The Lord provided Paul a “second wind” with this brief encouraging word. I imagine Paul slept well that night in the assurance of the Lord’s pleasure. I know there are seasons and places where we can do our very best in Christ and see minimal results. If that is where you are, be encouraged in the Lord.
“…Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior…” Isaiah 43:1b-3a
Seeking to be faithful in seedtime and harvest,
Don Steiger
The record of this grueling scenario begins in Acts 21:17. Paul was in Jerusalem and after giving the church leaders a report on his missionary ministry he was asked to join four brothers who were going through purification rites to demonstrate to other Jerusalem believers Paul’s respect for the law. Paul agreed to do so and upon entering the temple was falsely accused of teaching against the law and bringing gentiles into the temple. “The whole city was aroused, and the people came running from all directions. Seizing Paul, they dragged him from the temple” where they tried to kill him. The Roman authorities intervened saving Paul’s life. As they were taking him away, he asked to address the crowd. Receiving the commander’s permission he proceeded to tell them of his conversion. When he said the Lord told him to go to the gentiles the crowd raised their voices and shouted, “Rid the earth of him! He’s not fit to live.” This ministry experience was not going well.
Next the commander ordered Paul be taken to the barracks, beaten, and questioned. As the soldiers were preparing to flog him, Paul told them he was a Roman citizen and narrowly avoided a severe beating. Then the next day he was taken before the Sanhedrin where he rebuked the high priest. The priest ordered that Paul be struck on the mouth and Paul in anger said, “God will strike you, you whitewashed wall. You sit there to judge me according to the law, yet you yourself violate the law by commanding that I be struck!” When he was told he was speaking to the high priest he said, “Brothers, I did not realize that he was the high priest for it is written, ‘Do not speak evil about the ruler of your people.’” Uncontrolled anger, back-pedalling, damage control – it was not going well.
Paul then seized upon the theological disagreements of the Pharisees and Sadducees by declaring himself a Pharisee. The two groups began to argue and physically pull Paul in different directions to the point the Roman commander was afraid he would be pulled to pieces. He rescued Paul from the violence, and imprisoned him in the barracks. “The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, ‘Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.’” Acts 23:11.
First of all, the Lord was with Paul in this dark moment. Second, He imparted courage. Third, He provided divine perspective when He said, “As you have testified about me in Jerusalem”. From a human perspective Paul’s ministry effort in Jerusalem was a failure, but not in the view of the Lord. There were no souls added to the kingdom, no churches planted, and no additions to the existing church in Jerusalem. But, Paul did what God wanted him to do. Fourth, He gave Paul hope for the future.
The Lord provided Paul a “second wind” with this brief encouraging word. I imagine Paul slept well that night in the assurance of the Lord’s pleasure. I know there are seasons and places where we can do our very best in Christ and see minimal results. If that is where you are, be encouraged in the Lord.
“…Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior…” Isaiah 43:1b-3a
Seeking to be faithful in seedtime and harvest,
Don Steiger
Monday, August 4, 2008
I Want to Know Christ
What do you want more than anything else in life? The Apostle Paul having lived a full life with extraordinary personal talent and opportunities said, “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.” Philippians 3:10-11.
Paul wanted to know Jesus Christ more than he wanted anything else. Jesus put it into perspective when He prayed, “Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” John 17:3.
To know Christ we must first experience the power of His resurrection. We do so through faith, relationship, and experience:
Through faith, because He “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification. Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God” Romans 4:25, 5:1a.
Through relationship because “if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to our mortal bodies through His Spirit, who lives in you.” Romans 8:11. The Spirit of God within brings transformation of character and lifestyle.
Through experience as He provides signs and wonders. Supernatural experiences are not the basis of faith, but they are an encouragement to faith. For example, every time He heals someone it is a sign of the coming resurrection from the dead, as well as an immediate benefit.
To know Christ also involves the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings. Suffering is part of the human condition, but there is a suffering unique to Christians. The sufferings of Christ which we share are the product of Satan’s resistance, persecution by men, and our obedient sacrifice:
Jesus experienced Satan’s resistance and so will we. “Resist him (Satan), standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” (1 Peter 5:9).
Jesus experienced persecution by men and the scripture says “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ…If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.” (1 Peter 4:12-14).
Regarding obedient sacrifice Paul said, “Now I rejoice in what was suffered for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church.” (Col 1:24). We can add nothing to the atoning work of Jesus Christ on the cross, but He left work for us to do in the building up of His church. That work is sometimes sacrificial and brings a degree of suffering into our lives.
Becoming like Christ in His death means sharing His suffering and His triumph. On the cross He disarmed satanic powers and authorities, He loved the world unconditionally, and He fulfilled God’s purpose by providing salvation for all who believe on Him. Sharing in the sufferings of Christ is the way of the overcomer. He could have delivered us from all suffering, but we would have missed out on enriched personal growth, victory in Jesus, and a deepened relationship with Him.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9
Paul wanted to know Jesus Christ more than he wanted anything else. Jesus put it into perspective when He prayed, “Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” John 17:3.
To know Christ we must first experience the power of His resurrection. We do so through faith, relationship, and experience:
Through faith, because He “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification. Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God” Romans 4:25, 5:1a.
Through relationship because “if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to our mortal bodies through His Spirit, who lives in you.” Romans 8:11. The Spirit of God within brings transformation of character and lifestyle.
Through experience as He provides signs and wonders. Supernatural experiences are not the basis of faith, but they are an encouragement to faith. For example, every time He heals someone it is a sign of the coming resurrection from the dead, as well as an immediate benefit.
To know Christ also involves the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings. Suffering is part of the human condition, but there is a suffering unique to Christians. The sufferings of Christ which we share are the product of Satan’s resistance, persecution by men, and our obedient sacrifice:
Jesus experienced Satan’s resistance and so will we. “Resist him (Satan), standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” (1 Peter 5:9).
Jesus experienced persecution by men and the scripture says “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ…If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.” (1 Peter 4:12-14).
Regarding obedient sacrifice Paul said, “Now I rejoice in what was suffered for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church.” (Col 1:24). We can add nothing to the atoning work of Jesus Christ on the cross, but He left work for us to do in the building up of His church. That work is sometimes sacrificial and brings a degree of suffering into our lives.
Becoming like Christ in His death means sharing His suffering and His triumph. On the cross He disarmed satanic powers and authorities, He loved the world unconditionally, and He fulfilled God’s purpose by providing salvation for all who believe on Him. Sharing in the sufferings of Christ is the way of the overcomer. He could have delivered us from all suffering, but we would have missed out on enriched personal growth, victory in Jesus, and a deepened relationship with Him.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Context, Connection, and Collaboration
There are three words at the forefront of my thinking in the beginning stages of my tenure as Superintendent. They are context, connection, and collaboration. I believe these concepts are at the heart of who we are as a district.
The District and General Council provides context for ministry in our doctrinal foundation, credentialing of ministers, network of churches, network of colleges, universities, and seminaries, world-wide missions, and organizational structure.
Within that context we have an opportunity to connect with our fellow ministers for mutual encouragement. Our district structure can help create points of connection, but that alone is inadequate. I encourage you to take the time to call or meet with another pastor or two or three for the purpose of relationship – no agenda except friendship. Encouragement, accountability, and learning flow naturally out of relationships with one another. Every so often I remember with sadness a missed opportunity in this area (no doubt I have missed more than I remember). Several years ago I felt the Holy Spirit prompting me to give a $100 Christmas gift from Radiant Church to a neighboring pastor of a small church. The board would have been enthusiastic about the idea, but I let it slide and did nothing. I robbed that Pastor of encouragement by my inaction.
Collaboration is achieved through structure and natural connections. AG World and Home Missions is a wonderful structure with diverse opportunities for collaboration depending on the vision of a local church and its giftedness. Collaboration can occur in a less structured manner as well as a church catches the vision to parent a new church or partner with a struggling church that needs revitalization. Together we can do more.
I am grateful God placed me in partnership with you.
The District and General Council provides context for ministry in our doctrinal foundation, credentialing of ministers, network of churches, network of colleges, universities, and seminaries, world-wide missions, and organizational structure.
Within that context we have an opportunity to connect with our fellow ministers for mutual encouragement. Our district structure can help create points of connection, but that alone is inadequate. I encourage you to take the time to call or meet with another pastor or two or three for the purpose of relationship – no agenda except friendship. Encouragement, accountability, and learning flow naturally out of relationships with one another. Every so often I remember with sadness a missed opportunity in this area (no doubt I have missed more than I remember). Several years ago I felt the Holy Spirit prompting me to give a $100 Christmas gift from Radiant Church to a neighboring pastor of a small church. The board would have been enthusiastic about the idea, but I let it slide and did nothing. I robbed that Pastor of encouragement by my inaction.
Collaboration is achieved through structure and natural connections. AG World and Home Missions is a wonderful structure with diverse opportunities for collaboration depending on the vision of a local church and its giftedness. Collaboration can occur in a less structured manner as well as a church catches the vision to parent a new church or partner with a struggling church that needs revitalization. Together we can do more.
I am grateful God placed me in partnership with you.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
What Should a Church Look Like?
What should a church look like? In the last 6 weeks I have visited 8 AG churches. Each one is distinctly different. For example, the setting varied. One met in homes, another in a rented garage, another in a rented theater, another in a rented amusement park, another in a purchased school building, and the other three in classic church buildings.
There are many different ideas about what a church should look like. Cultural preferences are an important factor. For some, dressing formally seems right and for others casual is best. In fact, over the years I have noted proponents of suits and ties have regarded casually clad worshipers as disrespectful, and the casually clad have regarded the formally attired as uninformed. Fortunately, I think this polarization is fading. In my recent church visits, attire varied from suits and ties to business casual to jeans and cowboy boots.
Music has been a big issue with regard to what a church should look like. Loretta and I attended a Christian concert recently which featured “traditional” Christian music. Because of the large crowd, the woman sitting by Loretta made the comment that the attendance indicated her preference in music was right all along. I guess she is unaware of the large crowds that gather for contemporary worship concerts.
I believe the bottom line in what a church should look like is this: it should look like Jesus. “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14.
Jesus entered the Jewish culture of the first century, adopting their amoral cultural norms such as attire, hair style, language, etc. In that context he effectively proclaimed the eternal, unchanging message of God’s grace and truth. May we (the church) do the same as we collectively reach into the many cultural settings of our society.
There are many different ideas about what a church should look like. Cultural preferences are an important factor. For some, dressing formally seems right and for others casual is best. In fact, over the years I have noted proponents of suits and ties have regarded casually clad worshipers as disrespectful, and the casually clad have regarded the formally attired as uninformed. Fortunately, I think this polarization is fading. In my recent church visits, attire varied from suits and ties to business casual to jeans and cowboy boots.
Music has been a big issue with regard to what a church should look like. Loretta and I attended a Christian concert recently which featured “traditional” Christian music. Because of the large crowd, the woman sitting by Loretta made the comment that the attendance indicated her preference in music was right all along. I guess she is unaware of the large crowds that gather for contemporary worship concerts.
I believe the bottom line in what a church should look like is this: it should look like Jesus. “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14.
Jesus entered the Jewish culture of the first century, adopting their amoral cultural norms such as attire, hair style, language, etc. In that context he effectively proclaimed the eternal, unchanging message of God’s grace and truth. May we (the church) do the same as we collectively reach into the many cultural settings of our society.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Lessons from a Party
On Sunday July 6, 2008, Praise Assembly of God in Pueblo, Colorado honored Pastor Bobby and Alvena Wilson for 40 years of pastoral ministry at Praise AG. My wife, Loretta, and I had the privilege of attending the evening banquet. What a wonderful celebration. Upon reflection I noted several lessons on effective pastoring in evidence that evening. The fact that I have known Bobby and Alvena for over 40 years accentuated the significance of what I observed.
In spite of the holiday weekend there were several hundred in attendance which was indicative of the significant growth of the church through the years. We sat at the Wilson’s table with their family and a community leader who is a personal friend of Bobby’s but not a part of the church. This gentleman sat by Loretta and me, and we engaged in fascinating conversation. His language was colorful and his opinions sometimes contrary to a Christian point of view. It was evident that Bobby built bridges to people in the community and invited them into the experience of the church.
I was also impressed with the spirit of the people. The entire church family exuded a joyful spirit and great respect for their pastor. There was a sense of safety and well-being under the care of this shepherd. The banquet was well planned and executed efficiently by the staff and congregation. The effectiveness of the event and the well-maintained condition of the facility indicated a culture of solid administration and a desire to do things with excellence. They knew how to put their best foot forward.
There was a couple assigned to serve our table and their comments about Pastor Bobby were revealing. They talked about their pastor hearing from God and providing effective ministry and leadership under God’s anointing. Clearly they saw him as a man of God. And to top it off, when Pastor Wilson was invited to conclude the evening he said “I don’t know how someone can make so many mistakes and be loved by so many people”. His humility and openness was evident to a church family that knew his admission of mistakes was sincere but overstated. His statement was reassuring of his attention to integrity and expressed his deep appreciation and love for “his” people.
Psalm 78:72 says “And David shepherded them with integrity of heart, with skillful hands he led them.” Pastor Bobby and Alvena Wilson shepherd Praise Assembly of God and the Pueblo community with integrity of heart, with skillful hands they lead them. Thank you Pastor Bobby and Alvena, and congratulations!
In spite of the holiday weekend there were several hundred in attendance which was indicative of the significant growth of the church through the years. We sat at the Wilson’s table with their family and a community leader who is a personal friend of Bobby’s but not a part of the church. This gentleman sat by Loretta and me, and we engaged in fascinating conversation. His language was colorful and his opinions sometimes contrary to a Christian point of view. It was evident that Bobby built bridges to people in the community and invited them into the experience of the church.
I was also impressed with the spirit of the people. The entire church family exuded a joyful spirit and great respect for their pastor. There was a sense of safety and well-being under the care of this shepherd. The banquet was well planned and executed efficiently by the staff and congregation. The effectiveness of the event and the well-maintained condition of the facility indicated a culture of solid administration and a desire to do things with excellence. They knew how to put their best foot forward.
There was a couple assigned to serve our table and their comments about Pastor Bobby were revealing. They talked about their pastor hearing from God and providing effective ministry and leadership under God’s anointing. Clearly they saw him as a man of God. And to top it off, when Pastor Wilson was invited to conclude the evening he said “I don’t know how someone can make so many mistakes and be loved by so many people”. His humility and openness was evident to a church family that knew his admission of mistakes was sincere but overstated. His statement was reassuring of his attention to integrity and expressed his deep appreciation and love for “his” people.
Psalm 78:72 says “And David shepherded them with integrity of heart, with skillful hands he led them.” Pastor Bobby and Alvena Wilson shepherd Praise Assembly of God and the Pueblo community with integrity of heart, with skillful hands they lead them. Thank you Pastor Bobby and Alvena, and congratulations!
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