In the last month I had the privilege of sharing at the Pueblo Christian Center Pastor/Board retreat with Pastor Josh Richardson and his team. This is a fine leadership team and God is at work in PCC. Also, Loretta and I were able to worship at Pueblo Praise AG with Pastor Bobby Wilson and the wonderful people of that congregation. Darron Wilson preached and it was an enriching service. Bobby is gaining strength following recent heart surgery, but needs prayer for continued recovery.
I spent one Sunday at home sick. I have rarely missed Sunday morning worship due to illness. I am grateful for good health and one of my greatest joys is worshipping with God’s people. To make up for that missed Sunday (smile) I visited a Saturday evening worship service at Rocky Mountain Calvary Chapel and then Living Hope Church Sunday a.m. Rocky Mountain Calvary Chapel is a great church of several thousand people in Colorado Springs. I am grateful we are in spiritual partnership with all of God’s family. Calvary Chapels often function under the radar in church growth literature and seminars, and yet several of the largest churches in America are Calvary Chapels. When Chuck Smith started Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, CA his goal was to create the “best fed and best loved” congregation in Southern CA. Not a bad paradigm of ministry.
As a Pastor when I would get discouraged by seasons of slow or no growth, I would refocus on ministering to people. Sometimes we become so absorbed with the administration and programming of the church we can unwittingly fail to feed and love people. Like the coach of a struggling football team who trims back the play book and gets back to the basics of blocking and tackling, we need to be sure we are effective in the most important aspects of our work.
Easter Sunday I visited Restoration Church, Interim Pastor Dave Argue and Living Hope Church, Pastor Phil Steiger both in Colorado Springs. If only every Sunday were as exciting as Easter! These two churches had about 950 people in attendance together. I have received reports of other churches experiencing a great Easter Sunday and pray the Lord will add to His church in this season of the year.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
RECENT CONNECTIONS AND REFLECTIONS
Since the first of the year I have enjoyed many opportunities to connect with our ministry family and a number of our churches.
On January 10th we visited Solid Rock Christian Fellowship in Florence, CO. Pastor Paul and Melanie Aragon are serving as long term interim Pastors leading the church to a place of health and vitality. The church is growing and doing very well.
On January 17th we visited Origins Community Church in Boulder, CO. Pastor Brad and Julie Riley and their leadership team are doing a great job. It was exciting to see so many CU students engaged in the church.
On January 24th we visited Aurora First AG in Aurora, CO. Pastor Gene and Rhonda Roncone lead this fine congregation. I heard someone say entering a healthy church is like walking into a kitchen when bread is baking which brings the following scripture to mind. “But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him.” (2 Corinthians 2:14). God’s fragrance is evident at Aurora First. They are engaged in a relocation project, so breathe a prayer for God’s blessing in the completion of their building program.
On Saturday, January 30th Loretta spoke at the Missions Ladies Brunch in Salt Lake City, UT. Several AG churches come together in Salt Lake City for a grand missions convention.
In January we conducted our Presbyter meeting. One of the enriching elements of our January meeting is a banquet with our Ordination candidates. We have a great group of ministers advancing to Ordination this year.
On February 7th it was my joy to speak at Living Hope Church in Colorado Springs, CO. Pastor Phil and Heather Steiger lead this congregation and we make this our home church.
On February 21st I spoke at High Point Church in Midway, UT where Cliff Gregory serves as Pastor. This church was started in partnership with Pastor Alex Lucero and Abundant Life AG in North Salt Lake City, UT. The church is doing very well with close to 100 people in attendance.
February was spent primarily in our District Sectional Tour. The connections with our ministry family was rich, important elections were conducted, we learned from one another in “best practices” presentations, and God’s presence was real as we encouraged one another. We experienced transition in several of our sections and will have five new Presbyters assuming office at out District Council.
In our travels Pastor Ted Miller gave me a tour of the new facility Grand Junction First AG is building. The building is beautiful and should be complete the beginning of April. They have graciously agreed to host our District Council this year and it will be exciting to celebrate with them in this significant step forward. They recently changed the name of the church to Victory Life Church, so keep that in mind as you drive to the new location. Pray for Pastor Ted and Tamara Miller and the congregation as they complete this facility and move forward.
On March 7th it was my privilege to speak at Living Water Assembly in Fort Lupton, CO. Pastor Dale and Donna Stout are doing excellent work leading this church in growth and spiritual health.
On January 10th we visited Solid Rock Christian Fellowship in Florence, CO. Pastor Paul and Melanie Aragon are serving as long term interim Pastors leading the church to a place of health and vitality. The church is growing and doing very well.
On January 17th we visited Origins Community Church in Boulder, CO. Pastor Brad and Julie Riley and their leadership team are doing a great job. It was exciting to see so many CU students engaged in the church.
On January 24th we visited Aurora First AG in Aurora, CO. Pastor Gene and Rhonda Roncone lead this fine congregation. I heard someone say entering a healthy church is like walking into a kitchen when bread is baking which brings the following scripture to mind. “But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him.” (2 Corinthians 2:14). God’s fragrance is evident at Aurora First. They are engaged in a relocation project, so breathe a prayer for God’s blessing in the completion of their building program.
On Saturday, January 30th Loretta spoke at the Missions Ladies Brunch in Salt Lake City, UT. Several AG churches come together in Salt Lake City for a grand missions convention.
In January we conducted our Presbyter meeting. One of the enriching elements of our January meeting is a banquet with our Ordination candidates. We have a great group of ministers advancing to Ordination this year.
On February 7th it was my joy to speak at Living Hope Church in Colorado Springs, CO. Pastor Phil and Heather Steiger lead this congregation and we make this our home church.
On February 21st I spoke at High Point Church in Midway, UT where Cliff Gregory serves as Pastor. This church was started in partnership with Pastor Alex Lucero and Abundant Life AG in North Salt Lake City, UT. The church is doing very well with close to 100 people in attendance.
February was spent primarily in our District Sectional Tour. The connections with our ministry family was rich, important elections were conducted, we learned from one another in “best practices” presentations, and God’s presence was real as we encouraged one another. We experienced transition in several of our sections and will have five new Presbyters assuming office at out District Council.
In our travels Pastor Ted Miller gave me a tour of the new facility Grand Junction First AG is building. The building is beautiful and should be complete the beginning of April. They have graciously agreed to host our District Council this year and it will be exciting to celebrate with them in this significant step forward. They recently changed the name of the church to Victory Life Church, so keep that in mind as you drive to the new location. Pray for Pastor Ted and Tamara Miller and the congregation as they complete this facility and move forward.
On March 7th it was my privilege to speak at Living Water Assembly in Fort Lupton, CO. Pastor Dale and Donna Stout are doing excellent work leading this church in growth and spiritual health.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Encouraged in the Lord
Discouragement is an enemy we all face from time to time. David found himself discouraged and in a very difficult situation in 1 Samuel 30: 1-6. His discouragement was due to the captivity of his family and his follower’s families, the destruction of Ziklag where he and his followers were living at the time, and the threat of rebellion among his followers. In verse 6 it says “But David found strength in the Lord his God” or as the King James version says “but David encouraged himself in the Lord his God.”
Recently, a pastor going through a very difficult time shared that without his relationship with God he would have given up. Learning to encourage ourselves in the Lord is a vital spiritual discipline. I think there were a number of things that converged in David’s mind that enabled him to be strengthened by the Lord at a critical moment in his life.
First of all, David encouraged himself in God’s mercy. He strayed from the will of God and needed His mercy. He grew weary of Saul’s pursuit of his life in Israel and went to Gath where he entered an alliance with King Achish, a Philistine ruler. Achish gave him the city of Ziklag where he and his six hundred men and their families could live. During his 16 month stay in Ziklag David raided communities outside Gath killing the inhabitants and taking their spoils to provide for his followers. Among David’s victims were Amalekites. When Achish questioned him about the source of the spoils David lied saying he had plundered Israelites in Judea. Discouragement comes even when we are in the center of God’s will, but David’s impending dilemma stemmed from his disobedience to God.
Amalekites attacked Ziklag as David and his men were with the armies of the Philistines preparing to fight King Saul and the army of Israel. David offered to fight for the Philistines but the Philistine commanders did not trust him and required that Achish send him and his men home to Ziklag. When they returned they discovered their city burned and their families taken captive. His men were so distraught they threatened to stone him. David then inquired of the Lord and the Lord promised he would successfully rescue his people. Under God’s direction he did so. David was at his best when he inquired of the Lord. When he trusted his own judgment over God’s he failed. Discouragement comes to us all, but when we miss God it is compounded. God’s mercy does not fail, however, and we can look to Him in assurance of His love and readiness to help.
Second, David encouraged himself in God’s promise. God mercifully protected David from fighting against Saul. It was in this battle that Saul’s sons were slain and Saul died falling on his sword after being wounded by the enemy. If David had participated alongside the Philistines in this battle, his ascension to the throne of Israel may have been prevented. God mercifully protected David from himself in this instance and preserved his future. God directed Samuel to anoint David in his youth as the next King of Israel. Though years had passed since that promise was delivered to David the promise remained true. I find it instructive that at the critical moment of the fulfillment of God’s promise David was in peril from within and without.
Third, David encouraged himself in God’s power. He inquired of the Lord in the depths of his distress. Time and again David had experienced God’s overcoming power. God enabled him as a boy to kill a lion and a bear in defense of his sheep. With God’s help he defeated the giant Goliath on the field of battle. God preserved him time and again from Saul’s efforts to locate and kill him. When all seemed lost from the human perspective he knew God was greater than any circumstance and he put his trust in God.
Out of this crisis David renewed his commitment to the plan of God and returned to Israel. It wasn’t long before he was anointed King over Judah and later King over all of Israel. There is strength in the Lord our God. Be encouraged in Him.
Recently, a pastor going through a very difficult time shared that without his relationship with God he would have given up. Learning to encourage ourselves in the Lord is a vital spiritual discipline. I think there were a number of things that converged in David’s mind that enabled him to be strengthened by the Lord at a critical moment in his life.
First of all, David encouraged himself in God’s mercy. He strayed from the will of God and needed His mercy. He grew weary of Saul’s pursuit of his life in Israel and went to Gath where he entered an alliance with King Achish, a Philistine ruler. Achish gave him the city of Ziklag where he and his six hundred men and their families could live. During his 16 month stay in Ziklag David raided communities outside Gath killing the inhabitants and taking their spoils to provide for his followers. Among David’s victims were Amalekites. When Achish questioned him about the source of the spoils David lied saying he had plundered Israelites in Judea. Discouragement comes even when we are in the center of God’s will, but David’s impending dilemma stemmed from his disobedience to God.
Amalekites attacked Ziklag as David and his men were with the armies of the Philistines preparing to fight King Saul and the army of Israel. David offered to fight for the Philistines but the Philistine commanders did not trust him and required that Achish send him and his men home to Ziklag. When they returned they discovered their city burned and their families taken captive. His men were so distraught they threatened to stone him. David then inquired of the Lord and the Lord promised he would successfully rescue his people. Under God’s direction he did so. David was at his best when he inquired of the Lord. When he trusted his own judgment over God’s he failed. Discouragement comes to us all, but when we miss God it is compounded. God’s mercy does not fail, however, and we can look to Him in assurance of His love and readiness to help.
Second, David encouraged himself in God’s promise. God mercifully protected David from fighting against Saul. It was in this battle that Saul’s sons were slain and Saul died falling on his sword after being wounded by the enemy. If David had participated alongside the Philistines in this battle, his ascension to the throne of Israel may have been prevented. God mercifully protected David from himself in this instance and preserved his future. God directed Samuel to anoint David in his youth as the next King of Israel. Though years had passed since that promise was delivered to David the promise remained true. I find it instructive that at the critical moment of the fulfillment of God’s promise David was in peril from within and without.
Third, David encouraged himself in God’s power. He inquired of the Lord in the depths of his distress. Time and again David had experienced God’s overcoming power. God enabled him as a boy to kill a lion and a bear in defense of his sheep. With God’s help he defeated the giant Goliath on the field of battle. God preserved him time and again from Saul’s efforts to locate and kill him. When all seemed lost from the human perspective he knew God was greater than any circumstance and he put his trust in God.
Out of this crisis David renewed his commitment to the plan of God and returned to Israel. It wasn’t long before he was anointed King over Judah and later King over all of Israel. There is strength in the Lord our God. Be encouraged in Him.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Recent Connections and Reflections
On November 22nd Loretta and I worshipped at Living Hope Church where Phil Steiger serves as Pastor. They are working in partnership with the counseling department at Focus on the Family to provide a city wide marriage seminar designed for unchurched people. The Army Post, Fort Carson is very interested because of the family challenges so many troops face due to serving in Iraq for extended periods of time. The event will be hosted by Living Hope on April 30 and May 1, and we are believing many will be impacted with the love and wisdom of Christ.
On November 29th Loretta and I visited Discovery Church in Parker, CO. Pastor Jon and Angie Hamp launched this church in September 09 and are meeting in a theater complex. The church is thriving with a wonderful worship experience and excited people.
On December 6th Loretta and I were in San Antonio TX for the AG Executive Leadership conference. A Sunday morning service was conducted in the hotel with Jim Bradford (General Council Secretary) speaking. He will be our night speaker at District Council in Grand Junction, CO this year. He is an excellent communicator with great content. The conference was refreshing and helpful.
On December 13th Loretta and I visited Federal Heights New Life Worship Center where Bo Sosa serves as Pastor. It was great to be with this church family that suffered the tragedy of the Masters Commission van accident. This is an alive, growing church that is impacting its community. We are all pulling for this wonderful church in their time of difficulty and God is doing great things. God bless you Bo and Teresa and your ministry team!
On December 20th I spoke at Eads AG in Eads, CO where Richard Zabriskie serves as Pastor. What a delightful group of people. The church building is located near the local High School which I helped build when I was about 16 years old and working for a sheet rocking contractor in the summer months. It brought back some memories and I discovered a couple men in the church who also worked on that building (so much for reminiscing). Thank you Richard and Pat for your ministry in Eads.
On December 27th I spoke at Radiant Church, in Colorado Springs, CO where Todd Hudnall serves as Pastor. Thanks, Todd, for inviting a previous pastor into your pulpit. The church is doing very well with many new people added and a completely renovated main campus. Radiant launched a satellite campus at Vista Ridge High School in September and I had the privilege of preaching three times; twice at the main campus and once at Vista Ridge. What could be more fun for a minister? Pastor Todd Hudnall is also on the radio five days a week with his preaching ministry. God bless you Todd and Kelly and your ministry team.
We are part of a great family of believers and together we can do so much more for Christ than we can separately. And, now we start a new year. My prayer is that 2010 will be your best year to date for you personally, your family, and your ministry.
PRAYER NEEDS:
Pastor Bobby Wilson of Praise AG in Pueblo, CO is scheduled for heart surgery January 28th.
Pastor Richard Johnson of First AG in La Junta, CO has been diagnosed with a large mass on his right kidney. Richard’s wife Robin is in treatment with a lesion on her liver as well. You can communicate with them and tract their progress on their web site: www.caringbridge.org/visit/richandrobinjohnson.
Pastor Emil Romero of Blanding, UT is scheduled for surgery on his left shoulder and right knee in January and February.
Please join me in prayer for these dear friends and colleagues.
On November 29th Loretta and I visited Discovery Church in Parker, CO. Pastor Jon and Angie Hamp launched this church in September 09 and are meeting in a theater complex. The church is thriving with a wonderful worship experience and excited people.
On December 6th Loretta and I were in San Antonio TX for the AG Executive Leadership conference. A Sunday morning service was conducted in the hotel with Jim Bradford (General Council Secretary) speaking. He will be our night speaker at District Council in Grand Junction, CO this year. He is an excellent communicator with great content. The conference was refreshing and helpful.
On December 13th Loretta and I visited Federal Heights New Life Worship Center where Bo Sosa serves as Pastor. It was great to be with this church family that suffered the tragedy of the Masters Commission van accident. This is an alive, growing church that is impacting its community. We are all pulling for this wonderful church in their time of difficulty and God is doing great things. God bless you Bo and Teresa and your ministry team!
On December 20th I spoke at Eads AG in Eads, CO where Richard Zabriskie serves as Pastor. What a delightful group of people. The church building is located near the local High School which I helped build when I was about 16 years old and working for a sheet rocking contractor in the summer months. It brought back some memories and I discovered a couple men in the church who also worked on that building (so much for reminiscing). Thank you Richard and Pat for your ministry in Eads.
On December 27th I spoke at Radiant Church, in Colorado Springs, CO where Todd Hudnall serves as Pastor. Thanks, Todd, for inviting a previous pastor into your pulpit. The church is doing very well with many new people added and a completely renovated main campus. Radiant launched a satellite campus at Vista Ridge High School in September and I had the privilege of preaching three times; twice at the main campus and once at Vista Ridge. What could be more fun for a minister? Pastor Todd Hudnall is also on the radio five days a week with his preaching ministry. God bless you Todd and Kelly and your ministry team.
We are part of a great family of believers and together we can do so much more for Christ than we can separately. And, now we start a new year. My prayer is that 2010 will be your best year to date for you personally, your family, and your ministry.
PRAYER NEEDS:
Pastor Bobby Wilson of Praise AG in Pueblo, CO is scheduled for heart surgery January 28th.
Pastor Richard Johnson of First AG in La Junta, CO has been diagnosed with a large mass on his right kidney. Richard’s wife Robin is in treatment with a lesion on her liver as well. You can communicate with them and tract their progress on their web site: www.caringbridge.org/visit/richandrobinjohnson.
Pastor Emil Romero of Blanding, UT is scheduled for surgery on his left shoulder and right knee in January and February.
Please join me in prayer for these dear friends and colleagues.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Looking Back and Moving Forward
Jesus established the purpose of the church in the Great Commission. Every facet of the church should ultimately participate in the assignment of proclaiming the gospel to the whole world and making disciples of Jesus Christ.
When the Rocky Mountain District Council of the Assemblies of God was established in 1921 our purpose was set forth in the Articles of Incorporation. A description of our purpose begins with the statement “The principles and objects of this organization shall be based on the ‘Bible as the inspired Word of the Living God’.” The following statement from that document says “The purpose of this organization shall be the propagation and dissemination of the Gospel of Christ …”. In abbreviation it goes on to say that we will do so by establishing a church organization to fulfill this purpose, by establishing the legal standing to hold property and channel funds to facilitate this purpose, by employing officers and representatives to promote this purpose, and by transacting business to carry out this purpose.
My vision for the district stems from the Great Commission and our original purpose for being. I see the district propagating the Gospel of Christ and making disciples by providing context, connection, and collaboration for effective ministry. CONTEXT is provided through our doctrine, credentialing for ministry, our educational institutions, our worldwide network of ministers and churches, and our history. CONNECTION is provided through our district wide network of ministers and churches. COLLABORATION is provided through our shared efforts in church planting and development, and our support mechanism for missionaries.
My goal is to maintain our viable context for ministry, encourage connections between our ministers, and facilitate collaboration in church development and multiplication. I believe it is important our ministers and their families are healthy, I believe our churches should be viable and growing, and I believe we should plant more new churches.
Personal health is promoted when we connect with healthy people. As a pastor I encouraged people to have at least one needy person in their lives they could minister to. (After one sermon in which I challenged our congregation to do so, one brother went around the foyer after the service offering himself as that needy person for someone to adopt) As pastors we have many needy persons in our lives and need to insure that we have an adequate support mechanism of healthy friends as well. Our network of pastors can provide that resource and includes in the package shared callings and experiences that can provide wisdom and encouragement at a meaningful level. I see us caring more for one another and reaching out to one another in the ministry. I know how easy it is to become isolated, and I encourage you to connect with ministers in your area for mutual encouragement and enrichment.
Healthy growing churches don’t just happen. They are the product of God’s providence, empowerment by the Holy Spirit, devotion to Christ, vision, wisdom, and hard work. We can help each other here also. Our friendships should be well rounded, but I encourage you to include a pastor of a church that has reached a level you want your church to reach. They can provide guidance that will help you move your church to a higher level. Forming a formal or informal mentoring or coaching relationship can be very helpful in the development of your ministry. Also, I envision strong churches partnering with struggling churches to bring them to strength. We have seen this happen in some cases already and I believe it is an effective pathway to church revitalization.
Two of the best things we did at Radiant Church in my years there was to plant Korean Glory Church (in the AG Korean District) and Restoration Church. Two other AG churches were started in Colorado Springs during my pastorate and I supported both. I have never regretted setting aside my fears that Radiant may end up smaller if I supported new churches in our area. In fact, Radiant grew larger as we formed new churches and kept a Kingdom mind set. These were some pastoral decisions I found to be essential to the expansion of the Kingdom of God and liberating to my own heart and ministry.
Starting new churches accelerates reaching the lost and is extremely important to the fulfillment of the Great Commission. I believe it is essential we resist the temptation to frame ministry within our existing ministries alone and champion the formation of new churches. New churches typically reach more unchurched people than established churches and are essential to fulfilling the Great Commission. I encourage every pastor to include in your vision participation in church planting. That may mean helping someone else start a church or it may mean starting another church out of your congregation (satellite or district affiliated).
It is an honor to be in partnership with you in the great cause of Jesus Christ. May God bless you personally and give you the greatest year of ministry ever in 2010.
When the Rocky Mountain District Council of the Assemblies of God was established in 1921 our purpose was set forth in the Articles of Incorporation. A description of our purpose begins with the statement “The principles and objects of this organization shall be based on the ‘Bible as the inspired Word of the Living God’.” The following statement from that document says “The purpose of this organization shall be the propagation and dissemination of the Gospel of Christ …”. In abbreviation it goes on to say that we will do so by establishing a church organization to fulfill this purpose, by establishing the legal standing to hold property and channel funds to facilitate this purpose, by employing officers and representatives to promote this purpose, and by transacting business to carry out this purpose.
My vision for the district stems from the Great Commission and our original purpose for being. I see the district propagating the Gospel of Christ and making disciples by providing context, connection, and collaboration for effective ministry. CONTEXT is provided through our doctrine, credentialing for ministry, our educational institutions, our worldwide network of ministers and churches, and our history. CONNECTION is provided through our district wide network of ministers and churches. COLLABORATION is provided through our shared efforts in church planting and development, and our support mechanism for missionaries.
My goal is to maintain our viable context for ministry, encourage connections between our ministers, and facilitate collaboration in church development and multiplication. I believe it is important our ministers and their families are healthy, I believe our churches should be viable and growing, and I believe we should plant more new churches.
Personal health is promoted when we connect with healthy people. As a pastor I encouraged people to have at least one needy person in their lives they could minister to. (After one sermon in which I challenged our congregation to do so, one brother went around the foyer after the service offering himself as that needy person for someone to adopt) As pastors we have many needy persons in our lives and need to insure that we have an adequate support mechanism of healthy friends as well. Our network of pastors can provide that resource and includes in the package shared callings and experiences that can provide wisdom and encouragement at a meaningful level. I see us caring more for one another and reaching out to one another in the ministry. I know how easy it is to become isolated, and I encourage you to connect with ministers in your area for mutual encouragement and enrichment.
Healthy growing churches don’t just happen. They are the product of God’s providence, empowerment by the Holy Spirit, devotion to Christ, vision, wisdom, and hard work. We can help each other here also. Our friendships should be well rounded, but I encourage you to include a pastor of a church that has reached a level you want your church to reach. They can provide guidance that will help you move your church to a higher level. Forming a formal or informal mentoring or coaching relationship can be very helpful in the development of your ministry. Also, I envision strong churches partnering with struggling churches to bring them to strength. We have seen this happen in some cases already and I believe it is an effective pathway to church revitalization.
Two of the best things we did at Radiant Church in my years there was to plant Korean Glory Church (in the AG Korean District) and Restoration Church. Two other AG churches were started in Colorado Springs during my pastorate and I supported both. I have never regretted setting aside my fears that Radiant may end up smaller if I supported new churches in our area. In fact, Radiant grew larger as we formed new churches and kept a Kingdom mind set. These were some pastoral decisions I found to be essential to the expansion of the Kingdom of God and liberating to my own heart and ministry.
Starting new churches accelerates reaching the lost and is extremely important to the fulfillment of the Great Commission. I believe it is essential we resist the temptation to frame ministry within our existing ministries alone and champion the formation of new churches. New churches typically reach more unchurched people than established churches and are essential to fulfilling the Great Commission. I encourage every pastor to include in your vision participation in church planting. That may mean helping someone else start a church or it may mean starting another church out of your congregation (satellite or district affiliated).
It is an honor to be in partnership with you in the great cause of Jesus Christ. May God bless you personally and give you the greatest year of ministry ever in 2010.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Recent Connections and Reflections
On October 4th it was my privilege to speak for Pastor Jim Gangwish at Bread of Life Assembly of God in Nucla, CO. Jim and Connie Gangwish are very involved in the community and the church is doing well. God has placed a great vision in Jim’s heart going forward.
I accompanied Loretta to the Colorado Women’s Ministries retreat in Keystone October 9 – 11. The retreat was a success with good attendance and a wonderful work of God. Thanks to Peggy Vawter and her fine leadership team.
On Saturday , October 10th I visited with Pastor Jeff McElhattan of Elements AG in Silverthorne, CO. This unique church is making inroads in the community and reaching many. As Jeff and I visited in Starbucks there were three people from the community who spoke to Jeff and one inquired about visiting one of their gatherings. Maybe Jeff set that up for my benefit – just kidding.
On October 11th I ministered for Pastor Dan Matney at New Life AG in Avon, CO. Dan and Bilinda were on sabbatical at the time and I had a great time with the congregation and several visitors. The church building has to have one of the most beautiful views of any in our beautiful states of CO and UT.
On October 18th I spoke for Pastor Larry kettle at Bridge to Life AG in Canon City, CO. Larry serves as our Presbyter for the Southern Section and is doing a fine job pastoring in Canon City.
On October 25th I installed Pastor Rex and Amy Adams at Ordway AG in Ordway, CO. Rex and Amy are off to a great start and the church is doing well.
On November 1st Loretta and I worshipped at Living Hope Church (our home church) in Colorado Springs, CO. It was nice to take a break from my weekend travels and take in the ministry of my son, Phil Steiger.
On November 8th I installed Pastor Joe and Sharilyn Berry at Bethel AG in Burlington, CO. The Berry’s and the church are doing well.
On November 15th I spoke at Restoration Church in Colorado Springs, CO. Pastor Mike and Rebecca Bellanti did an excellent job leading this church for the last several years. In August Mike resigned to take a church in Wisconsin and Restoration is now engaged in a pastoral search. The church is doing very well with over 400 in attendance. This church is close to my heart. We planted Restoration out of Radiant Church in 1993 and it was great to see some of the original congregants who were strategic in the birth of this church.
RECENT HEARTACHES:
I have noted some of my more joyful experiences in the last few weeks. In addition we have experienced some deep heartache in our district. Two of our ministers fell as a result of moral failure. As I made my way through these scenarios I was reading in Genesis and was taken by God’s word to Cain after Cain’s offering was rejected. “Then the Lord said to Cain, ‘Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door, it desires to have you, but you must master it.” Genesis 3:6-7.
The Lord noted two problems in Cain’s life. One was attitude and the other was action. Cain did not offer a pleasing sacrifice to God, however, that was an easy matter to correct. If he had changed the sacrifice to what the Lord desired, he would have been accepted by God. Instead he became angry and killed his brother Abel who offered the acceptable sacrifice. His unwillingness to address what was wrong in his life led to serious sin and a lifetime of regret.
Misplaced anger never bears good fruit. Cain should have looked inward and responded with obedience to the Lord’s correction. Instead, he became angry with Abel (and probably God) and compounded his problems. I can imagine there was considerable rationalization in Cain’s mind and some finger pointing at others to justify himself. An attitude of complete surrender to God is the pathway to spiritual health and enjoyment of the benefits that come from obeying our all-wise God.
Addressing sinful action is critical. The more we allow wrong actions in our lives the more sin is crouching at the door. We must master the wrong that would invade our lives. We cannot do that in our strength alone. We need to walk close to God with dependency on the Holy Spirit, God’s word, and a readiness to immediately repent when we sin. We need the accountability and support of our immediate family and Christian friends to add further protection.
My heart is breaking for the two men I mentioned and their families. Though I will not mention their names, please pray for them and their families. As you pray for them, be renewed in your commitment to live an overcoming life. These situations are devastating to all involved and I earnestly pray we will live righteously in Christ.
I accompanied Loretta to the Colorado Women’s Ministries retreat in Keystone October 9 – 11. The retreat was a success with good attendance and a wonderful work of God. Thanks to Peggy Vawter and her fine leadership team.
On Saturday , October 10th I visited with Pastor Jeff McElhattan of Elements AG in Silverthorne, CO. This unique church is making inroads in the community and reaching many. As Jeff and I visited in Starbucks there were three people from the community who spoke to Jeff and one inquired about visiting one of their gatherings. Maybe Jeff set that up for my benefit – just kidding.
On October 11th I ministered for Pastor Dan Matney at New Life AG in Avon, CO. Dan and Bilinda were on sabbatical at the time and I had a great time with the congregation and several visitors. The church building has to have one of the most beautiful views of any in our beautiful states of CO and UT.
On October 18th I spoke for Pastor Larry kettle at Bridge to Life AG in Canon City, CO. Larry serves as our Presbyter for the Southern Section and is doing a fine job pastoring in Canon City.
On October 25th I installed Pastor Rex and Amy Adams at Ordway AG in Ordway, CO. Rex and Amy are off to a great start and the church is doing well.
On November 1st Loretta and I worshipped at Living Hope Church (our home church) in Colorado Springs, CO. It was nice to take a break from my weekend travels and take in the ministry of my son, Phil Steiger.
On November 8th I installed Pastor Joe and Sharilyn Berry at Bethel AG in Burlington, CO. The Berry’s and the church are doing well.
On November 15th I spoke at Restoration Church in Colorado Springs, CO. Pastor Mike and Rebecca Bellanti did an excellent job leading this church for the last several years. In August Mike resigned to take a church in Wisconsin and Restoration is now engaged in a pastoral search. The church is doing very well with over 400 in attendance. This church is close to my heart. We planted Restoration out of Radiant Church in 1993 and it was great to see some of the original congregants who were strategic in the birth of this church.
RECENT HEARTACHES:
I have noted some of my more joyful experiences in the last few weeks. In addition we have experienced some deep heartache in our district. Two of our ministers fell as a result of moral failure. As I made my way through these scenarios I was reading in Genesis and was taken by God’s word to Cain after Cain’s offering was rejected. “Then the Lord said to Cain, ‘Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door, it desires to have you, but you must master it.” Genesis 3:6-7.
The Lord noted two problems in Cain’s life. One was attitude and the other was action. Cain did not offer a pleasing sacrifice to God, however, that was an easy matter to correct. If he had changed the sacrifice to what the Lord desired, he would have been accepted by God. Instead he became angry and killed his brother Abel who offered the acceptable sacrifice. His unwillingness to address what was wrong in his life led to serious sin and a lifetime of regret.
Misplaced anger never bears good fruit. Cain should have looked inward and responded with obedience to the Lord’s correction. Instead, he became angry with Abel (and probably God) and compounded his problems. I can imagine there was considerable rationalization in Cain’s mind and some finger pointing at others to justify himself. An attitude of complete surrender to God is the pathway to spiritual health and enjoyment of the benefits that come from obeying our all-wise God.
Addressing sinful action is critical. The more we allow wrong actions in our lives the more sin is crouching at the door. We must master the wrong that would invade our lives. We cannot do that in our strength alone. We need to walk close to God with dependency on the Holy Spirit, God’s word, and a readiness to immediately repent when we sin. We need the accountability and support of our immediate family and Christian friends to add further protection.
My heart is breaking for the two men I mentioned and their families. Though I will not mention their names, please pray for them and their families. As you pray for them, be renewed in your commitment to live an overcoming life. These situations are devastating to all involved and I earnestly pray we will live righteously in Christ.
Monday, October 5, 2009
A pastor and his/her congregation
The relationship between a pastor and the congregation is critical to the success of a church. God gives us direction for this important relationship in His word. In 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 it says, Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.
A congregation shows respect for a pastor by praying for, encouraging, and supporting him or her. A congregant can help a pastor if they see an area that can be realistically improved by offering their idea as a suggestion with a personal offer to assist in making things better. A critical or rebellious spirit toward a pastor, however, is toxic to the whole body.
It is essential that a congregation hold their pastor in highest regard. I know that pastors can be placed on a pedestal to an unhealthy degree, but if a pastor is disrespected, potential for effective ministry in the church is thwarted. God has established roles in the church to provide order and unified ministry. Although every believer is a minister and of equal value to God, not every believer should be in church leadership.
Pastors have been ordained by God to be the principle leaders in the church working in partnership with other qualified leaders. Hebrews 13:17 says, Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you. This must be a discerning obedience; not a blind obedience. Furthermore, this obedience is to leaders, plural, indicating that a pastor should not be leading alone. Only an accountable pastor who shares leadership with elders and/or deacons, who is functioning according to God’s word is deserving of obedience.
Healthy relationships are always two way streets and the bible places a great responsibility on pastors to exercise their leadership in a Christ honoring way. 1 Peter 5:1-3 says To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed. Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers – not because you must, but because you are willing as God wants you to be, not greedy of money, but eager to serve, not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
I heard an unloving husband say to his wife “you have to stay with me, because the bible says you must.” We know that doesn’t work and in the same way an unloving or ineffective pastor cannot expect respect from their congregation. However, a pastor with a servant’s heart who loves their people and carries out their life and work according to God’s word will typically find their congregation ready to follow their leadership. And, a congregation that will love and respect their pastor encourages the pastor’s best effort on behalf of the church. A loving and wise expression of authority is the only effective way to foster respect for leadership and obedience to leadership. Demanding respect and obedience doesn’t work in the church.
A pastor’s first responsibility is to be an example; to live close to God and model a Christ-like life. The pastor’s leadership then needs to be exercised in loving servanthood, always seeking what is best for the church and the advance of God’s kingdom, treating people with patience, respect, and love. Also, the pastor has a huge responsibility to insure that God’s word is taught. Pastors are to preach the word (2 Timothy 4:2) and the church is the pillar and foundation of the truth (1 Timothy 3:15).
When parties on both sides of the pulpit are functioning according to God’s plan then the church can go forward with unity and great effectiveness.
PASTORAL ANNIVERSARIES:
Pastor Bryan and Brenda Thompson started Mountain View Assembly of God in Thornton, CO October 17, 1999. The church will be celebrating the Thompson’s 10th anniversary October 25, 2009. Congratulations Bryan and Brenda!
Canyon Road Assembly of God in Ogden, UT honored Pastor Ray and Beverly Wead on September 26 and 27, 2009 for 30 years as Pastor of Canyon Road. Congratulations Ray and Beverly!
NEW CHURCH REPORTS:
Last week I mentioned new churches that were launching in September and October 2009 and I would like to note our other new churches that are preparing to launch or have launched in the last three years. I invite you to pray for our new churches and church planters, and support them wherever possible.
Pastor Jerry and Susan Cassell in partnership with Pastor Randy Popineau and Church at Briargate in Briargate, CO will be planting a new church in Monument, CO in the coming year.
New Hope Family church in Pueblo, CO Pastored by Steve and Carla Cornella is developing their core team and preparing to launch in the near future. Outreaches into the community is already reaching unchurched people and nine families are now part of the core team. Steve was on staff at Bridge to Life AG in Canon City, CO with Pastor Larry Kettle and Bridge to Life has been a vital partner in this effort.
Elevation Church Kaysville Satellite pastored by Trinity and Ami Jordan started April 11 and 12, 2009. Promise Assembly of God merged with Elevation to create this new effort. Thanks to Pastor Jerry and Nancy Koetitz for their years of ministry establishing Promise AG which now goes forward as part of Elevation Church.
Abundant Life Assembly of God in North Salt Lake City, UT pastored by Alex and Donna Lucero planted a satellite congregation in Heber City, UT out of a bible study started several years ago. Cliff and Linda Gregory became the pastors of this emerging work in January 2009 and the church is thriving.
Celebration Church in Loveland, CO pastored by Charles and Glennis Hefton started April 12, 2009 and has already developed a solid congregation with a healthy DNA going forward.
Journey Church in Colorado Springs, CO pastored by Dave and Sara Ruckman started April 2008 as a Home Church. The church is doing well meeting in homes with periodic corporate gatherings.
North Peak Christian Center in Woodland Park, CO was started by Pastor John and Kay Gowins in March 2008. John and Kay handed off pastoral leadership to Ray and Missha Wagoner in August 2009. Thanks John and Kay for carving out this needed church.
Elements Church in Summit County, CO pastored by Jeff and Cheryl McElhattan and team started in the spring of 2007. Elements is moving forward as a unique home group based ministry reaching and discipling people through relationships.
Crossroads Community Church in Commerce City, CO pastored by Keith and Julie Boyer stared March 2007 and has grown into a sizable church impacting the Commerce City area.
Denver Church in Denver, CO pastored by Bryan and Joy Sederwall started January 2007 and is reaching out effectively to an eclectic population in downtown and near downtown Denver.
Plum Creek Community Church in Castle Rock, CO pastored by Doug and Beth Miller started January 2007 and has experienced extraordinary growth.
Please pray with me that God will strengthen all our churches and lead us into the development of many effective new churches so we can together reach the vast majority of people in Utah and Colorado who do not know Christ.
A congregation shows respect for a pastor by praying for, encouraging, and supporting him or her. A congregant can help a pastor if they see an area that can be realistically improved by offering their idea as a suggestion with a personal offer to assist in making things better. A critical or rebellious spirit toward a pastor, however, is toxic to the whole body.
It is essential that a congregation hold their pastor in highest regard. I know that pastors can be placed on a pedestal to an unhealthy degree, but if a pastor is disrespected, potential for effective ministry in the church is thwarted. God has established roles in the church to provide order and unified ministry. Although every believer is a minister and of equal value to God, not every believer should be in church leadership.
Pastors have been ordained by God to be the principle leaders in the church working in partnership with other qualified leaders. Hebrews 13:17 says, Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you. This must be a discerning obedience; not a blind obedience. Furthermore, this obedience is to leaders, plural, indicating that a pastor should not be leading alone. Only an accountable pastor who shares leadership with elders and/or deacons, who is functioning according to God’s word is deserving of obedience.
Healthy relationships are always two way streets and the bible places a great responsibility on pastors to exercise their leadership in a Christ honoring way. 1 Peter 5:1-3 says To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed. Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers – not because you must, but because you are willing as God wants you to be, not greedy of money, but eager to serve, not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
I heard an unloving husband say to his wife “you have to stay with me, because the bible says you must.” We know that doesn’t work and in the same way an unloving or ineffective pastor cannot expect respect from their congregation. However, a pastor with a servant’s heart who loves their people and carries out their life and work according to God’s word will typically find their congregation ready to follow their leadership. And, a congregation that will love and respect their pastor encourages the pastor’s best effort on behalf of the church. A loving and wise expression of authority is the only effective way to foster respect for leadership and obedience to leadership. Demanding respect and obedience doesn’t work in the church.
A pastor’s first responsibility is to be an example; to live close to God and model a Christ-like life. The pastor’s leadership then needs to be exercised in loving servanthood, always seeking what is best for the church and the advance of God’s kingdom, treating people with patience, respect, and love. Also, the pastor has a huge responsibility to insure that God’s word is taught. Pastors are to preach the word (2 Timothy 4:2) and the church is the pillar and foundation of the truth (1 Timothy 3:15).
When parties on both sides of the pulpit are functioning according to God’s plan then the church can go forward with unity and great effectiveness.
PASTORAL ANNIVERSARIES:
Pastor Bryan and Brenda Thompson started Mountain View Assembly of God in Thornton, CO October 17, 1999. The church will be celebrating the Thompson’s 10th anniversary October 25, 2009. Congratulations Bryan and Brenda!
Canyon Road Assembly of God in Ogden, UT honored Pastor Ray and Beverly Wead on September 26 and 27, 2009 for 30 years as Pastor of Canyon Road. Congratulations Ray and Beverly!
NEW CHURCH REPORTS:
Last week I mentioned new churches that were launching in September and October 2009 and I would like to note our other new churches that are preparing to launch or have launched in the last three years. I invite you to pray for our new churches and church planters, and support them wherever possible.
Pastor Jerry and Susan Cassell in partnership with Pastor Randy Popineau and Church at Briargate in Briargate, CO will be planting a new church in Monument, CO in the coming year.
New Hope Family church in Pueblo, CO Pastored by Steve and Carla Cornella is developing their core team and preparing to launch in the near future. Outreaches into the community is already reaching unchurched people and nine families are now part of the core team. Steve was on staff at Bridge to Life AG in Canon City, CO with Pastor Larry Kettle and Bridge to Life has been a vital partner in this effort.
Elevation Church Kaysville Satellite pastored by Trinity and Ami Jordan started April 11 and 12, 2009. Promise Assembly of God merged with Elevation to create this new effort. Thanks to Pastor Jerry and Nancy Koetitz for their years of ministry establishing Promise AG which now goes forward as part of Elevation Church.
Abundant Life Assembly of God in North Salt Lake City, UT pastored by Alex and Donna Lucero planted a satellite congregation in Heber City, UT out of a bible study started several years ago. Cliff and Linda Gregory became the pastors of this emerging work in January 2009 and the church is thriving.
Celebration Church in Loveland, CO pastored by Charles and Glennis Hefton started April 12, 2009 and has already developed a solid congregation with a healthy DNA going forward.
Journey Church in Colorado Springs, CO pastored by Dave and Sara Ruckman started April 2008 as a Home Church. The church is doing well meeting in homes with periodic corporate gatherings.
North Peak Christian Center in Woodland Park, CO was started by Pastor John and Kay Gowins in March 2008. John and Kay handed off pastoral leadership to Ray and Missha Wagoner in August 2009. Thanks John and Kay for carving out this needed church.
Elements Church in Summit County, CO pastored by Jeff and Cheryl McElhattan and team started in the spring of 2007. Elements is moving forward as a unique home group based ministry reaching and discipling people through relationships.
Crossroads Community Church in Commerce City, CO pastored by Keith and Julie Boyer stared March 2007 and has grown into a sizable church impacting the Commerce City area.
Denver Church in Denver, CO pastored by Bryan and Joy Sederwall started January 2007 and is reaching out effectively to an eclectic population in downtown and near downtown Denver.
Plum Creek Community Church in Castle Rock, CO pastored by Doug and Beth Miller started January 2007 and has experienced extraordinary growth.
Please pray with me that God will strengthen all our churches and lead us into the development of many effective new churches so we can together reach the vast majority of people in Utah and Colorado who do not know Christ.
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