Connections

Where is he leading you?

2011-02-14T15:31:00.002-06:00

A disciple is one who follows Jesus. If you are a follower where is He leading you? Can you give a specific place, direction or destination where Jesus is taking you?

If yes, that is awesome. This means you have true focus and direction in life.

If no, that is tragic. This means you are wandering aimlessly with no real meaning or purpose.

Solution? Find a small group and start living the disciple's life together. You with the focus and direction are needed badly by you who are wondering and wandering. How about getting together, forming a group and together follow Jesus.

Discipleship is awesome cause it is!

Are you betting on it?

2010-07-15T11:27:00.002-05:00

Jesus tells a story about a master heading out for an extended vacation. Before he leaves he gives three of his servants a little cash to invest while he is gone. Each servant is given an amount equal to their ability to properly use that amount to please their master. One gets five talents, another two and the third receives one. The first two go our and start wheeling and dealing and in no time have doubled the master's money. The third is too afraid to take a chance and decides the best investment strategy is to dig a hole and bury the money.

After a while the master returns and has a meeting with his servants to discuss his portfolio. Servant one and two are pleased to announce how well their strategies worked and handed over the master's fortune. The third however was able to muster only excuses as to why he did nothing but hide the gift he had been given. Can you imagine what Jesus had in mind when He told this story in relation to a discussion about His future physical return to earth some day?

I don't think He was trying to fill some more space in His Father's best seller. He wasn't trying to play tricks on His hearers or obscure the real meaning. No, I believe Jesus hit the proverbial (pun intended) nail on the head with this one.

True disciples keep reading, the rest of you can go ahead and look at more pictures on Facebook.

OK. What does Jesus mean by this parable. Simply put He teaches (and warns) us that He is coming again and He expects us to have done something with a gift He has entrusted us with. We will not have any excuse as to why we haven't done what He desired of us; we will only have a time of eternal accountability. So I leave you with a couple of questions.

First, what gift are you aware of He entrusted to you and how are you using it to grow His kingdom?

Second, are you ready for His return and the accounting that follows?

Third, is Matthew just pulling our leg or is Jesus serious about this giftedness thing?

Fourth, have you correctly chosen to "Enter into the Joy of the Master" or do you rather like being considered a wicked and evil slave?

Yeah that was more than a couple of questions but we should be more concerned with the choice we now have to make. Need help? Drop me a line and let's work on it together.

Obedience as a Disciple

2010-03-17T10:18:00.002-05:00

OK. So I'm reading about the disciples in Matthew 16. Jesus asked them what people are saying about Him. Then He gets personal and says, "Who do you say I am?" Peter says "Your are the Christ!" Then Jesus announces His plan for the church and in verse 20 warns them not to tell anyone He is the Christ. Sad thing is, this is one of the few areas we obey Jesus on a daily basis! Thoughts?

I find it sad that after Jesus did so much for us we are so hesitant to live and speak in a way that reflects His grace and Mercy.

An interesting sidebar is found in Mark 7:36.

Following Jesus

2010-02-08T09:36:00.002-06:00

Just the other day I posted a status on my Facebook page that asked for a response from people in regards to there level of discipleship. Luke 9:23 teaches us that disciples are to deny self, take up crosses daily and follow Him.

Follow Jesus! Now that is a key concept. You see, I received but one response to this question: Where specifically is Jesus leading you?

You can check out my FB page and see that no one replied specifically. Now I don't want you to see that as a total negative because more than likely it took many by surprise. But now I am asking that question again. If you are a disciple then you must be following Jesus. If you are following Jesus where are you going? Where is He leading you? Can you be exact and specific?

I will re-visit this again later so give it some thought and prayer.

Small Groups

2010-01-21T11:22:00.005-06:00

Small groups. Home Bible studies. Connection groups. House churches. Whatever you choose to call them they are the most primitive but also the best way to become the church as Jesus planned. The large group concept works well for some areas of the walk of faith but there are several areas of a believer's life that cannot be mastered apart from the small group experience. Over the next several postings I will discuss those areas that typically are week in the modern church. So often we in church life strive to "be" church people or good Christians. We attend some, pray some, read some, fellowship some, minister some and serve some. But Jesus has commanded us to do all we can for His Kingdom. Please don't get the impression this is a spanking rather see it as a place to truly evaluate your position in Christ as it relates to His church. Are you being a disciple or doing discipleship as Jesus desires?

God at work

2009-10-22T11:02:00.000-05:00

A copy of an email I received from Larry Richmond:

Awakening 2009 Results Granite City (population 35,000) has seemed to have been God’s target for a crusade. For only a few weeks starting this last summer, the Lord has led in the development of a crusade where 25 churches from different denominations have come together to pray, plan, and prepare for evangelism in Granite City. Bill Saye was the evangelist for the week. Sunday and Wednesday evenings had the largest attendances, approaching 2000 in attendance at the high school football field. Since it was and outside event, we were all praying hard for good weather for the event, and God responded, stopping rain before the start of the crusade, and the forcast is to resume rain on Thursday (today) after the crusade. We are praising the Lord for the results: 177 professions of faith in Christ and 139 people recommitting their lives to Jesus (includes crusade and pre-crusade decisions). Many others came for prayer. One other significant result was seen. There was an unusual unity among churches of different denominations as partnerships developed. Pastors were thanking the Lord for breaking down “walls of division” that have been in place for years. The unity of the local churches also resulted in support from other local leaders and agencies. Pastors of the cooperating churches desire that their cooperation be extended to other activities in the future. It seems that this is only a beginning to what the Lord wants to do in Granite City. We are also attempting to start several groups of seekers to address their spiritual questions by providing biblical answers. We would very much like to start a house church movement from the results of the crusade. That, of course, depends on how the Lord leads over these next few weeks. Here is more good news. This can happen in any community where spiritual leaders work together to pray and seek the Lord and follow His direction in doing His work to bring people to a saving relationship with God.

Giants have to die

2009-10-09T11:32:00.003-05:00

There he was. Little David the handsome young teenager standing before the champion of the Philistines. Goliath had struck fear in every one of God's warriors from Saul to Abner to the rest of the faithless and gutless army of God. God's people allowed the taunting and harassing from the enemy because as much as they looked around all they saw was Goliath. A giant looming before them caused them to focus on nothing but the giant. Hey, that's what giants do isn't it?

So because of an uncircumcised disgrace and defier of the living God, (David's words) God's people had become powerless, fearful and a laughing stock to those around. David decided to do something about it. He wasn't motivated by greed, power, prestige or a personal agenda; he was angry that so many of God's chosen ones had failed to seek God's direction and alone knew they could do nothing.

Not David though. He saw a giant, yes but he also believed in a God much bigger than Goliath. You see, the physical giant will always loom large over us when we close our spiritual eyes. God is a pretty big God and desires some pretty effective faith from His people. If David can kill Goliath what giant do you think we can kill with the power of God at our disposal?

I guess the question really is do we even believe God is bigger than the bogey man?

The Judas Kiss

2009-10-05T10:40:00.002-05:00

Have you ever felt betrayed? Felt like no matter what you try to do and no matter how much you love and care for someone they can so easily reject that love? I know how it feels as most of you do as well. What is it about this betrayal that seems so hurtful? What is it about the human psyche that allows us to feel that embrace of love and encouragement from someone one moment and then in one brief instance we feel like our only recourse is to separate ourselves from that person or people? Can we become or are we so self-absorbed that we reject the efforts of those we call near and dear to our hearts.

If this were to ever happen in the church what would the backlash be? I am sure it does happen all the time which is why God looks upon us and must be shaking His head in disgust. You see, if the church can't get this love thing figured out the world will never either. Maybe the reason the world is lost and dying with a Savior is because the church doesn't even love it's own... let alone the world.

We pretend. We attempt. We make excuses but the bottom line is we do not love. If we did we would do what Jesus did. We would die.

"Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13

So one of three things is true. We don't love, we won't die or we don't really have any friends.

Judas must have thought he was justified in turning his back on Jesus. But to betray with a kiss will always laugh in the face of justification. Why? because Jesus still loved Judas and Jesus still died for him.

Who will you die for?

Day Eight... Also Day One

2009-08-27T09:32:00.002-05:00

Sharon called early, early to let me know dad had died. My first words were "good, I'm glad to hear". Morbid? No way. If you know Jesus and have a relationship with Him you will embrace death and give it a big hug.

Left early for KC and all the fun of funeral arrangments and such.

Helped pastor Rick with the ceremony and did the graveside service. Didn't like it but God was my source of strength.

Bye dad! See you agian some day.

By faith Richard...

2009-08-27T09:30:00.001-05:00

OK. Hebrews 11 mentions the word faith how many times? _____. Now every person mentioned did something as a result of faith. It went beyond a mere belief it always "forced" a person into action. If God were to include you in Hebrews eleven, what would he say about you and your faith?

Baptism

2009-08-27T09:29:00.001-05:00

I have been reading and re-reading the book of Acts. I have noted 6 specific instances where radical saving took place. Every one of the instances also marries salvation with baptism. Hmm? Do you think baptism is important and why? Just a question to ponder.

Day seven

2009-07-19T19:29:00.002-05:00

July 19th, 2009

Not a good day for pops. Very restless and uncomfortable. Agitated all day becuase of some pain and the pressure of too much fluid build up. Mom ask dad, "Jim, have you talk to the Lord and told Him you were ready to go home?" He said yes.

Hospice Nurse came by and made him feel a whole lot better. Had to insert a catheter since zero urine output for 24 hours. Viola 1000ml from bladder and another 500ml from chest.

Mom starting to get a little worried about his breathing. Thought she lost him last night but he is hanging tough.

I so badly want to be with him but so many repsonsibilities keep that from happening. God is my source of strength and encouragment. He is so good to me!

1845, talked with mom again and I can hear dad in the background trying to breath. He hasn't really been coherant since yesterday morning. Nothing eaten or drank since yesterday. Not that he really needs it either. Sharon has been so good to be there most of the time. Thanks Paul for making lunch. I know it is hard for you to see dad this way. John hope you make it as well to say some farewells for now. Too bad we missed the chance for the Colorado trip and the fishing expidition.

We will be heading West tomorrow AM. With God guiding since this is no doubt our last chance to be with him on this side of eternity.

Day six

2009-07-18T21:49:00.000-05:00

July 18^th, 2009 Day six

Dad was a little restless through the night but slept pretty well. Mom found him trying to make his way to his commode but he got tangled and twisted and couldn’t make it. Mom tried but he is just too heavy for her. She called Rob (their awesome next-door neighbor) who rushed over and helped him get on the stool.

Rob left and between dad, mom, and the hospice nurse he was back in his bed.

Nurse was a little concerned about his fluid buildup. Urine output has been minimal for last three days.

1000, Sharon, Patric, Sarah and Erin arrive to keep dad company while mom goes for some “alone” time. Nurse drains Plurex catheter and very quickly draws off 500ml. (It should take 2 to ten minutes for fluid to drain but she had a full container in less than a minute)

Not a great day but mom is hanging in there. Dad slept all day and was glad to get pain meds.

1800, Sharon and mom drained another 500ml of fluid. Doctor says to drain no more that 1000ml per day so they will go at it again tomorrow.

That much fluid in the chest cavity and no urine output is a definite sign of kidney failure approaching.

Mom needs prayer and I will focus a great deal on her. Impending death, planning death and preparing for death is all part of it but it is still death. I like the way Scripture talks about death as sleep. Jesus gives us the hope and confidence that the second our eyes close in death they will re-open in glory and in the presence of Jesus. But it is still death. Are you ready? You need to be just in case your time is near.

Day five

2009-07-18T21:47:00.002-05:00

July 17^th, 2009 Day five

I spent the morning working with the volunteer crew since it was the last day for them to be there. We poured some more concrete (been doing that a lot lately) and finally got home and cleaned up. Called mom for updates.

2030 (previous evening) Dad started being a little restless and received pain meds. Seemed to do OK til 2200. Said he was hungry so mom fixed PBJ sandwich. Ate some of it but still complained and more restless. Mom said, “At this time I changed my name from Chris and didn’t tell anyone what my new name is”. She is definitely feeling the strain and he seems to be more demanding.

2230, mom gave him his dose of Lorazepam. Dad (and mom) slept all night.

1000, dad finally woke up and was feeling OK. Hospice nurse arrived and cleaned him up, changed his clothes, and walked him to the bathroom. He didn’t feel up to a shower so he went back to his bed.

{Speaking of bathroom, I joked with mom about the night dad got home and after getting settled in he said he had to go to the bathroom. Medical supply house had yet to deliver a bedside commode so mom was going to take him to the bathroom. He was still in his wheelchair so mom wheeled him down the hall, through the master bedroom and squeezed him in the bathroom but a few inches shy of the toilet. After a few attempts to get him up mom hollered for me to assist. I went back and had to dead lift dad to his feet. He finally gained his balance and I left him to his business. A few minutes later I was summoned to get him back into his wheelchair and negotiated our way back to the living room. As we chatted mom said he didn’t have much output so I asked, “All he did was pee?” Mom said that was all and I replied, “We went through all that for a little pee? I thought he had to take care of some serious business”. I suggested from now on for him to get a urinal and save the hassle of the trip. Of course, if he could walk it would do him some good.}

1230, nursing staff was changing so dad got to meet his new nurse for a while. Dad really likes her so that makes things easier. Lots of people in and out through the day.

1800, Heather arrives with tacos and strawberry caked. Dad ate four tacos and a piece of cake. Visited for a while and company went home. His very last meal and he loved it!

Good night’s rest.

Note to FB readers. Click on full story then click "show original post" to go directly to the blog.

Day Four

2009-07-16T23:12:00.002-05:00

July 16^th, 2009 Day Four

0900 Headed to folk’s house to say so long for now. Tough to think I may never say another word face to face with dad. He said he had a pleasant night (meds are good). Dad held the puppy. Held and kissed Elizabeth and posed for this awesome picture.

0945 Had to leave. Told dad I had his camera for now but would not use it til I was sure he was finished with it. Last spoken words face to face: “Hang in there pops, I love you buddy.”

1745 Called dad and said we were home. He had a busy day with nurses and equipment and social worker and chaplain. He said he was tired but doing OK.

Note to self and everyone else: Make sure you ask God to reveal any undone’s that may be in your life. Regrets are spirit-killers if we aren’t careful. I don’t have any at this time, praise God.

Day Three

2009-07-16T23:01:00.001-05:00

July 15^th, 2009 Day Three

0830: Going home to get ready to go home day. Arrived at hospital to find dad sitting up in his chair and feeling poorly.

0930: First attempt to have dad’s plurex catheter checked and fluids drained. (Last week he had 5.5 liters of fluid drained from his chest and abdomen).

11:30 Nurse informs us that Central Supply sent wrong drainage device. (Tough to swallow that news but people are people).

11:45 Case manager Mary said the new drainage device was on its way. Discharge would be about 1:30.

13:30 Nursing staff, 1 doctor, 2 chaplains a hospital operator and two answering machines were treated to an exact imitation of Sergeant Clouse (Back in the day) I was pleasant, Christ like and professional but boy did they get a great view of the veins in my neck and forehead.

14:00 Finally a nurse with common sense goes to the Radiology lab and grabs a drainage device.

15:00 After a trip to Sonic for ice cream we are HOME! Hospice nurse is waiting to admit dad. Truck arrives with medical equipment. We all sit around eating spaghetti and taking turns playing with the electric bed. (Comfy mattress too).

2000 Full day of visiting, laughing and reminiscing in between 2 minute power-naps. Oh and dad creates a Facebook page. (Now, will he check it daily?)

2200 We head out for one last night’s rest before heading East.

Day Two

2009-07-16T22:58:00.002-05:00

July 14^th, 2009

0905: Arrived back at the hospital and found dad quite chipper and he said he felt pretty good. (No doubt the meds from the night before) Began discussing Hospice process and waited to Case manager and Hospice admissions to come by.

13:00 Hospice folks began the registration process. Kind of weird to go through the process with your own father but Jesus followers are simply getting ready for a promotion! Praise God for His peace and comfort.

1400: Headed home to start rearranging furniture to make room for lots of medical equipment. Poured a concrete pad to help with dad’s wheelchair. Paul, Josh, Patric, Jerry and I did the concrete work while Donna, Teresa, Amanda, Jeff, and Christen went to 54^th Street Grill for supper.

2330: Kasey sends text telling us to pray for mom. Very emotional and struggling with the future unknowns. Teresa and I talked for about an hour with her and Teresa prayed with her.

Day one

2009-07-16T22:54:00.002-05:00

July 13^th, 2009

0845: Received call from dad Monday morning. Began making plans to head home for a couple of days. 1800: Josh, Kasey, Elizabeth, Amanda and Bella the puppy headed out I the HHR and Myself, Teresa, Jeff and Christen were in the Explorer.

2315: Finally made it to the hospital. The entire entourage made it past security and found dad and mom chatting in his room. Bella the puppy was smuggled in inside Christen’s purse. (Still haven’t heard if she left any surprises). Dad was pleased though.

I stayed to chat for a while as everyone else went home. Talked about how mom would be taken care of, what to do with some of his stuff, making sure he was spiritually ready. Kinda funny, he said, “If I haven’t got it figured out by now I’m not going to”. Dad told me I can have his camera, Sharon could have his lappy, and then he started worrying about mom again.

0100: Prayed with pops and went to get some sleep.

Introduction

2009-07-16T22:50:00.001-05:00

Saying So Long…. For Now

For me the journey officially began July 13^th, 2009 at 8:43 am. Dad called my cell phone while I was coordinating the two volunteer crews who were working on our new church building. When I said hello I could tell he was tired and upset as he spoke his first words to me that morning. “Rich?” “Hey dad, how’s it going today?” “Not very good Rich” he said, “I don’t think I can take any more.” As I continued to probe I realize he was making the decision he had been contemplating for almost two years.

In 1995 dad had his heart attack while breaking up a fight between two employees where he was working. From ’95 until July 15, 2009 he has had 31 admissions to St Joseph’s hospital in Kansas City, and a few more at Menorah Medical Center. Averaging two and a quarter visits a year can be no fun for anybody. This most recent stay though was the final stay as he has chosen to allow God, and God alone to be the sole decider of his future health and quality of life.

While speaking to dad Monday morning I figured out what he was trying to convey. Dad was ready to give up fighting what has been a useless battle for two years now. No cancer. No major heart condition. No exact diagnosis to help find a cure or at least allow quality of life to return. Just a body that was worn out from too much sickness like diabetes, congestive heart failure, liver and kidney failure and ultimately having to deal with a weakening heart. Monday was the day he decided to say “no more.”

“Dad” I said, “Why don’t you go be with Jesus”? Those were the words he had been waiting for. Final affirmation that he had our blessing to stop being aggressive and allow God to be His major “health care” provider. I remember the tears beginning to well in my eyes as I said “I love you buddy”, “hang in there and let God’s peace be your source of strength.

The following updates will journal dad’s final weeks, months or years since his choice to say so long with grace and dignity.

What is Revival Anyway?

2009-05-19T14:42:00.004-05:00

I was one of those kids with a severe drug problem as a child. Drug to church Sunday morning, Sunday evening, Wednesday evening and whenever else the folks deemed necessary to attend. One thing I do remember well are those times during the year when we held Revivals! You know the one's I'm talking about don't you. Some special, highfalutin preacher comes to town to stir things up a bunch and high-tail it back out so he doesn't get strung up by a church mob. How long has the church in America been hamstrung by this concept of revival.

Let me share a much easier, less costly and 100 percent effective way to see revival... true revival come to our homes, our churches, our community and heck yes, even our nation!

Step one: Open the Bible to Acts 3.

Step two: Read verse 19.

Step three: Do what it says especially the repent and return stuff and the sin-dealing with concept.

Step four: Faithfully wait on God to do the rest.

I'm done!

PS. Sorry bout Sunday and yesterday, real busy day and all.

The Sinful need for Revival

2009-05-16T19:38:00.003-05:00

So, is the need for revival a sinful condition? As a pastor I am doing my best to listen to God in order to direct His church into a place of better effectiveness and a greater level of spiritual renewal. As I study Scripture it began to dawn on me that the need for revival is actually a condition of sinfulness. One of my favorite verses is Acts 3:19 which is Peter's announcement that the hearer is to repent and turn back to God so that seasons of refreshing may come from God. Now if that doesn't sound like revival I don't know what does.

Let me share three things about these thoughts and then you decide is the need for revival is actually sin.

First, The word revival implies the bringing back to life something that is dead or nearing death. Spiritually speaking a believer who needs to be brought back to life is no doubt living an ineffective, apathetic and displeasing life.

Second, if a believer is dead (or dying) then there is no way they are connected to the Vine and they are not bearing fruit. John 15 says these types of branches are cut away and thrown into the fire. Sounds like death to me and sinful!

Third, if the believer is dead or dying then we are not living a life of faith but rather one of fear. Without faith we cannot please God and He has commanded us to do those things that are pleasing to Him. Once again not boding well for dead believers.

Anyway I could go on and on but I don't have any more time. I have to go talk to the father and see if Jesus will bail me out of this sin-sick situation I am in and allow the Holy Spirit to do some serious CPR on my soul. Join me and lets change the world!

Sin in the camp

2009-05-15T10:01:00.002-05:00

In Joshua chapter seven Scripture makes a startling announcement. After the conquest of Jericho in chapter six things seem to be looking pretty good for the nation of Israel. But, God's Word says, "The Israelites, however were unfaithful regarding the things set set apart for destruction" (7:1). But a close look reveals Achan was the only person who actually possessed any banned articles.

So, how come it is God condemned the nation for the transgression of a single individual? Hard question to answer in our modern living but a serious subject to begin praying over. Perhaps you should pray diligently about your own sin. It may be hidden from men but never from God. Are you the single individuals in your family, small group, church or community who is bringing a curse of destruction upon the whole group? Wow, what a thought to ponder, huh?

Application:

1. Pray for God to reveal your sin to you that you know you must immediately deal with.

2. Pray that God would show mercy and favor upon you and your "camp" so that you may become useful to Him once again.

3. Pray that others would experience the freedom of living pure and holy before God by ridding their lives of the banned items.

4. Pray for God to bring Seasons of Refreshing as a result of our confession and repentance (Acts 3:19.

I would suggest you strive to do everything possible to avoid being the one who is keeping God from allowing your group to be victorious.

2009-04-30T09:30:00.001-05:00

One of the toughest challenges we face is when we have to wait. The reason? We do the wrong things while we wait. More to follow.

Lessons I learn from Concrete

2009-03-17T11:53:00.002-05:00

I have always enjoyed construction. As far back as I can remember I have loved to build things, create things and sometimes disassemble and reassemble things. Now I really don't think I am great at any specific building activity but I suppose I am good at many things. I can wire a house almost with my eyes closed. I can frame houses, dig trenches with a backhoe and I can build a pretty awesome deck (drive by my house and see my latest creation!)

When I think of all the different trades and different stages of building there is one I absolutely despise. I HATE CONCRETE FLAT WORK! There! I said it and I mean it. I do not now nor have I ever been excited to pour concrete unless I was filling a trench for a footer. That flat work stuff is for better men than me. However, when my arm is twisted hard enough I will do it but I will go on record to say I will not like it. But just so you know I love the finished product. There is nothing more satisfying than to knock the forms off a large patio or a sidewalk you poured the day before.

Now if you are wondering where I am going I will tell you now. To me, the Christian walk is a like like pouring concrete. Some parts of the believers walk (no pun intended) are filled with things we don't like. Loving people who are hard to love. Rejoicing when we are sad or upset. Praising God when we can hardly make it through the day. Praying as a first reaction instead of a last ditch effort for relief. You know, those hard parts of the walk of faith.

But, just like pouring concrete you have to do the hard stuff to enjoy the hard stuff (pun intended). That is the finished product (another pun).

When we began building our new church facility last year I befriended our concrete contractor. Bill Gillihan is a born-again believer who was excited about being able to pour the concrete for our new structure. Bill has an excellent working knowledge of the concrete business. He knows how to bid jobs, how to calculate batches and how to prepare the site for the pour. (He also knows how to work around raindrops). But for all of Bill's vast knowledge of concrete he sums up his vocation in three simple phrases. These phrases are practical (metaphorically speaking) to every believer. While they may not seem so profound they truly do sum up the world of concrete...and what I call Concrete Christianity.

1. Concrete cracks. Yes, it seems no matter how hard a person tries it is inevitable that somehow, somewhere the concrete will crack.

2. Concrete gets hard. Once it is mixed there is no stopping it! Even under water concrete will harden and once it sets, you can't do a thing with it.

3. Concrete never gets stolen from a job site. No where have I ever heard of thieves running off with an eighty yard-sized slab 4 inches thick!

So the connection to the believer is this.

1. No matter how well we may feel like we are put together (poured) we will have flaws. Too often we believe we won't "crack" under pressure. I believe we need to realize we are not perfect and never will be this side of eternity. One thing that impressed me about Bill was his honesty in letting us know up front that no concrete pour is ever perfect.

2. The believer is to exhibit the distinguishing characteristics that make us what we are and shows the world what we are supposed to be. There are different types of concrete and many different uses but the basic properties are always the same. Concrete gets hard thus distinguishing it from mud, or grass or the clouds in the sky. Concrete is obvious, are you as a believer?

3. Once poured it stays put! Well sometimes it can be pre-fabbed and transported from place to place but not flat work. Once that stuff hits the ground and hardens it stays. So should the presence of Christ within the believer. Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ. Read Romans 8, especially verses 38-39 and see how convinced Paul was of this fact.

Concrete Christianity! Now that is a hard subject to dive into huh?

Why?

2009-03-09T09:38:00.002-05:00

Most of you know pastor Fred Winters was killed Sunday, March 8th during the end of the first worship service. I hear a lot of folks asking why so I thought I would throw in my 8 cents worth. The recession is even affecting the value of musing.

Whenever a believer asks why, especially in the face of crisis, I believe it is done from an emotional place within the person as they seek for a way to reason out the events and to help overcome the shock. Our "why" questions come from the humanness trying to reach out and find God and then to try to find out what He is thinking. For the believer we must tune into the spiritual senses and not the physical or emotional. I know, I know; easier said than done. Jesus tried it once while dying for our sin and I have yet to find in Scripture where God answered Him.

So, Why did Jesus have to die? Why do bad things happen to good people? Why did Jesus ask "why" on the cross? Why are why questions never really answered?

I don't think we can ever figure out the "whys" of life until the real reason is revealed. God knows what He is doing so we have to trust Him. We made not know why at this present moment but one day... some day we will because: God loves each one of us. So much so that He gave Jesus to die for our sin. We deserve death and hell but Jesus came to give life and life more abundantly.

God's ways are not our ways. My parents lost their first child in an automobile accident. Why? They constantly asked why and God said nothing until a friend of my father shared the Gospel with him. My dad accepted Jesus as His Savior to bring hope and joy to his life in the midst of despair. Now, 50 years later the Clouse family loves and serves God. Every family they have reached for Jesus is a direct result of the sovereign plan of God. Every person who accepts Jesus as Savior as a result of the Clouse witness can be traced back to the tragic death of a baby. Ask the Clouse family and we will tell you why Jennifer had to die.

Did we know that 50 years ago? No way, we didn't have a clue but we know now!

Do we know why Fred died the way he died? Not now but we will someday if and when we totally trust God and place our faith in Him.

But we also have to seek Him and His direction for our lives. The Clouses didn't just accept Jesus and quit. We used our testimony to encourage and aid others in living for the Lord as well.

After all, time is but for a moment and eternity is quite a bit longer than that. God has an eternal answer for Fred's death, how FBC Maryville overcomes this loss and especially for the way Cindy and the girls will grow in their faith and confidence in holy God. What those answers are we don't know yet but we need to start working on how to find them. God will reveal when God is ready to reveal... not a moment sooner.

So, pursue that answer in a spiritual sense, not physical.

God is good!

Golden Retriever Theology

2009-02-11T14:05:00.002-06:00

Sophie is her name and keep away is her game! Our retriever loves to play keep away. She will run around the yard with some object (just about any object) in her mouth for as long as there is someone with the energy to chase her. I truly believe she feels that is her purpose in life. But she is a retriever! I know we don't call them Golden Keep-awayers but that is what she does.

This breed of dog is bred to fetch and return whatever prize she is trained to retrieve. Her station in life is to go grab some dead bird or duck or whatever that her master has just dispatched to birdie heaven and return it. Not Sophie though. She'll go get whatever you throw but then it becomes a game of wit-matching and not bringing back whatever the object may be. Do you think this is OK behavior? I do but only because that is what I have trained her to do. I don't hunt anymore so I don't need Sophie to dive after dead waterfowl. I want to enjoy her as a carefree companion that has fun and rewards me with loyalty and sometimes obedience... sometimes!

As a born again believer God has a particular purpose for me and my life. He has provided the training and the knowledge to do whatever it is He desires for me to do. Problems arise when I decide I no longer want to serve Him and I decide to do things my way. I have no problem with Sophie sprinting around the yard with an object as long as it isn't my shoe!

God has a desire for companionship from us and it is there when we stop doing things our way and start pleasing Him. We tend to play keep-away with God instead of going after whatever it is He tells us to "fetch". Could be lost souls. Could be hurting relationships. Could be a service ministry or a vocational calling. Regardless of what it is God has called each one of us to be "bred" in a way that brings Him glory by bringing back whatever it is He sent us after.

In other words we are to accept and accomplish His will and not our own. Take it from a dog lover... fetch is a relative term unless there is a great deal of training and obedience.

How good is Satan?

2009-02-05T09:13:00.005-06:00

No Satan is not "good" but he is good at being bad. OK let me start that over. You see, Satan knows what it takes to destroy everything we find to be good in our lives. John 10:10 says "The thief comes to kill, steal and destroy..." Well I'm here to tell you it only happens when we allow it. Suppose you own a home and you have lots of valuables. One night a robber breaks in and steals your new 50" HD-plasma-lcd-big screen-1080 P-bright shining TV thingy. How do you feel? I mean it hurts to know that you have to watch reruns of Andy Griffith on a CRT for a while. But, what if the robber emailed you and said, "Hey, I'll be at your house tonight to steal your stuff. JSYK." What would you do? I know what I would do! I would be waiting with my loaded paintball gun in one hand and my phone in the other with 9-1-1 already dialed and my thumb on the send button. We would all be prepared for the thief in some way or another.

And yet Jesus warns us that the thief comes and here we are for some reason caught off-guard way too often. But do not lose hope! 1 Peter 5:6-11 can shed some light on this situation. As we respond to God's leadership and prepare for Satan's attacks we need to posses four specific traits to be able to combat the thievery around us. Open your Bible to 1 Peter and follow along.

1. Humility before God

2. Confidence in Him. Cast your anxiety on Him. Go ahead He can handle it.

3. Awareness of the enemy's movement. Look at the description of the lion. He is roaring which means he ain't being to stealthy. It should be obvious he is around us!

4. Determination to resist and remain strong because...

A. We are not alone in our struggle.

B. This is not unique to churches or within His Kingdom.

C. We are not defeated no matter how bleak it seems.

5. Following God's encouragement will result in...

A. Perfection

B. Confirmation

C. Strength

D. Establishment.

In closing let me encourage all readers to not just be reactive to Satan's attacks but begin to find ways to be proactive. Don't with for the enemy to get close before you start defending yourself, why not start chasing him away before he even gets close. That's what I'm going to try to do!

Struggles in the Church

2009-02-04T10:48:00.003-06:00

What do we do when serious problems surface in the local church? I am sure that question has been tossed about for a couple of centuries. The apostle Paul dealt with them on a regular basis. Peter had his problems to face as he was trying to keep the fledgling church on track. So regardless of the struggles we face they are never new to God's people. So what do we do? Let's take a quick look!

First of all I believe we need to have a heart of forgiveness. Paul wrote to Philemon about the urgent need to forgive the actions of his runaway servant Onesimus. Even though legally, morally, ethically and emotionally transgressions were conducted, as children of God we must work toward developing a heart of true forgiveness.

Second we need to be in deep prayer and strive to better our own personal walk with the Lord. When things pop up pray! Fast and pray instead of using that time to make phone calls or send emails asking and probing and worrying and speculating. Hey, God knows what is going on so give Him your attention and He will work it out in due time.

Lastly we need to focus on our personal responsibilities. Regardless of the struggles we face we need to stay steady and keep being the disciples Jesus called us to be. Are we spending more time asking questions or evangelizing? Are we seeing these things in light of the glory and purpose of God? Are we striving to win the lost, praise and worship God and grow in our own faith?

I am not saying these things are going to be easy to accomplish but we have to start somewhere. Rather than spend resources on guessing and fretting over the unknown, let's use those resources to move God's Kingdom forward. In the end we will all know what we need to know so until then we must work at the absolute truths we do know and leave it at that!

Leadership Bible study

2009-01-29T08:50:00.001-06:00

CP OPs Personal Reflection Studies (No.1)

Surprise! A Bible study for the leadership team. Be on notice that these will be coming from time to time. They are intended to be a way to Biblically reflect on our duties and responsibilities as leaders and to direct me in the process of mentoring.

After some careful observations I have drawn some of my own conclusions but I would love to hear back from the three of you. I am not making accusations nor am I ridiculing or condemning, I am observing. My desire is twofold. First, have we made the right policies as they pertain to leadership within the church in general? IE, are we making realistic expectations, reachable goals, asking too much of laypeople etc…? Second, are we ourselves carefully evaluating our own journey or have we become “blinded” to our own progress by our zeal to lead others? Follow along and help me evaluate the process and plan for tweaking that may need to happen.

Read Hebrews 10:19-25

1. The writer describes the process by which we enter into God’s presence. What are the two prerequisites to our ability to draw near to God? (19-20)

2. Who has met those requirements for us?

3. Once we decide to “draw near” we must approach God by completing three distinct tasks in our own personal life. These are listed below. For each, describe what that means to you and what steps you take to achieve it.

A. … True heart in full assurance of faith.

B. … Heart sprinkled clean from evil conscience and bodies washed in pure water.

C. … Hold to the confession of our faith without wavering.

4. How well are you accomplishing the three?

5. What needs the most work in your life right now?

6. Now verse 24 states that we are (as leaders) directed to focus on just two things as it pertains to the “concerns” we have for others in the body. What are those two focal points?

7. Finally, verse 25 describes the habits of two types of people. (Well one is explicit, the other implied) What are your “habits”? Using the space below briefly but clearly describe to me your church attendance since January 1^st (major meeting times as described in leadership guides). Cover such things as promptness, participation, what you learned, etc… Did you focus on 4 above? Are there changes needed in your life? If so, what? Are you doing “good” but forsaking the better? Self evaluation!

A. Sunday School

B. Morning Worship

C. Afternoon Worship/Bible study

D. Wednesday Prayer Meeting

8. Finally-finally. The end of verse 25 states one reason we assemble is to encourage one another. Can you perceive any action/attitude on your part that may be a discouragement to other church leaders, peers, lost people or your own family? Describe those.

January 2009

2009-01-29T07:38:00.001-06:00

MINISTRY!

DISCIPLESHIP!

CONNECTION!

Those are the themes of focus for 2009 at Crosspoint.

Try to spot the important concepts as you read.

We had an awesome ministry job fair and we have many excited and motivated ministry teams getting busy with their passionate plans for producing profitable partners and programs. Cool huh? Anyway I have to ask you (yeah I’m talking to you) this one simple question and I do feel an answer is very vital to the future of Crosspoint. Are you ready? No that’s not the important question; this is… “Did you enlist in one of our ministries”? Now, if you said yes all right! Welcome to a ministry team. If you answered no (or wadded this up and tossed it) I have to ask why? Use the space provided to give your reason (excuse?) for not signing up for a place of service in your church. ______________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________.

OK. Now that you have it on paper decide today to tell God this is not a reasonable reason so pray that He changes your mind about it then get back to church and sign up. Ever member of Crosspoint is to be a minister of some type or fashion. And that includes you!

Discipleship is the ongoing process of people just like you and me doing things and acting like the one we want to be like. A disciple of Jesus acts like Jesus. A disciple of the world acts just like the world. So, we are going to focus on making disciples who make disciples. Just so you know I am going to excuse any member of this church from future discipleship events and studies once you become a disciple who makes a disciple who makes a disciple. In other words I am holding you personally responsible for three levels of disciple-making. More to follow later…

Connections are those groups designed to give us opportunity to get together with peers and work out our life as believers in a “together” environment. Our journey requires us to be connected or else we will falter and fail. Viable Sunday school classes, vibrant small groups or victorious accountability groups are three very special options. I want you to make sure you are part of a weekly Bible study and you are part of an accountability group. Connecting in these groups will change your life, the lives of your family and the world we live in. Connect today to be better connected to Jesus.

That’s all I have to say about that! Have a great February and stay focused on HIM!

I love being your pastor!

January 2009 What a way to Start

2009-01-29T07:35:00.004-06:00

Our ministry job fair was a hit and we are seeing many ministries being filled by passionate and motivated leaders. As a result we have found ourselves faced with some new problems and challenges which will be dealt with as we continue to grow. Hang in there you all and be patient as we make the transitions.

Men's questions Rev. 7

2008-12-17T16:16:00.001-06:00

Men’s Accountability Questions

1. I have memorized the Scripture passage for this week.

2. The main focus of this passage is…

3. In addition, as I apply it to my life I expect God to ___________________

4. I make it a habit to attend every and all corporate worship meetings. This week I missed ____________ because of ___________. Is my reason acceptable to you?

5. Matthew 28:18-20 states by way of a commandment that I am to Go and make disciples. This week I achieved my goal of __________________________ as I continue to be obedient.

A. Studied the Biblical concept of discipleship and learned ______________________.

B. Applied what I have learned by ___________________________.

C. Partnered with ___________________ as a protégé/mentor to assist me.

D. Witnessed to _____________________ in order to begin the process through conversion.

E. Other as described ___________________________________

6. I believe God has commanded me to tithe regularly and systematically. This week I have…

A. Tithed at least ten percent

B. Gave less than ten percent because _________

C. Also gave to the building program.

D. Also gave love offering to Lottie Moon, Annie Armstrong, State missions, etc…

7. As a leader in my home I believe my family needs my utmost effort to become better at _______________.

A. Praying together as a family.

B. Spending good quality time with them.

C. Turning off the TV and doing something special, like listening, going for a walk or playing a game etc...

D. Sacrificing _________________ to show how sincere I am becoming.

E. _____________________________ !

8. In order for you to hold me accountable I need reinforcement from you to help me with 5-7 above via phone call, email or personal visit/reminder.

9. To strengthen my marriage I have committed to a time of daily devotion with my wife. I’ve kept my commitment ____ of 7 days.

a. As part of the new ministry paradigm I have prayerfully committed to at least one service ministry. To become better and more effective I need to ____________________ through this week.

10. As I strive for maturity my biggest obstacle to overcome this week has been?

11. I promise to be back next week as well as be a source of accountability for you men in reference to 5-7 above.

12. I have not lied about any responses.

Elizabeth is Here

2008-12-11T16:34:00.006-06:00

She has arrived. The photo slide show is to the right and will updated reulary.

New Blog

2008-12-10T09:21:00.001-06:00

I have started a new blog just to post sermons, Bibles studies and general Bible topics/tools. Feel free to use whatever you can but I would appreciate if you would inform me of what you use and when. Thanks.

Go to www.Once-dead.blogspot.com

Women's Accountability Questions Part 3

2008-12-10T09:19:00.001-06:00

Women’s Accountability Questions

1. Have I meditated in this week’s verse?

2. To me, this verse means ________________________

3. I can apply it to my life by _______________________

4. Following Jesus’ example in Matthew 14:23, how much time have you spent alone with God to draw near to Him and be challenged/strengthened by Him, in prayer and meditating on His Word?

5. What is the biggest barrier keeping me from this? Believing that God can remove any barrier (if we let Him), how can the barrier be removed?

6. In my commitment to God and the church I was present for all church meeting opportunities. If no, I feel God and you women will accept _______________ as a valid reason, otherwise it is just an excuse and I will change.

7. How has Christ used me to influence the life of a lost person this week, either by my words or my actions?

8. Have you expressed gratitude for the little things this past week to God? To others?

9. Have I been quick to find fault with another and verbalize those thoughts to others? In other words, when a wrong thought came to my mind concerning someone else, did I pray for them and ask God to guard my mouth and mind or did I criticize them to others?

10. Did I participate in gossip this past week by listening to words that were spoken about someone or was I able to walk away?

11. In dealing with pride in my life…

a. Was I able to listen to the opinion of another and consider it, or did I think my way was right?

b. Did I think of myself as being more spiritual than others in the church?

c. Did I look down on others who don’t make the same choices, have the same standards or were socially/culturally different?

d. Have I found it difficult to confess my sin to God or others?

12. Am I making it easy for my spiritual leaders to lead me spiritually? Will they be able to stand before God to give an account for my life and be able to do it with joy?

13. In my prayer life this week I…

a. Prayed specifically for a lost person.

b. Prayed for God to convict me of any sin in my life.

c. Prayed for my spiritual leaders.

d. Prayed for my family.

e. Followed through on my promise to pray for someone.

14. Do others feel as though they can never measure up to your expectations of what it means to be a good “_____________”?

15. Am I aware of an offense between myself and someone else? Did I…

a. Take the steps necessary to resolve it.

b. Pray for them.

c. Feel genuine concern for them (instead of offense)

d. Show love towards them and wait patiently to see the effect of that love in their life.

16. Can I honestly say that I have trusted God even through the darkest circumstances of life? If not what is keeping me from it?

17. I feel my greatest weakness is _________. To overcome this weakness I need you to _________________.

18. I promise to be back next week!

19. I have not glossed over or lied about any responses.

New Blog

2008-12-03T10:07:00.009-06:00

Go to www.Once-dead.blogspot.com

Lying is wrong

2008-10-31T22:02:00.001-05:00

Actually I do know. Lying is wrong! Always has been! Always will be. has nothing to do with motive, or conscience, or protecting life or not. The midwives did not lie to protect innocent life... babies died in the Nile anyway. They lied to protect their own hide, period. Why not tell Pharaoh, "forget it dude, you kill the babies". Cause they would have been tossed into the Nile with concrete shoes. Here is the deal. Everyone sins but God never rewards a person for the sin but for the righteousness God imparts upon them. The midwives were blessed for their overall character, not an instantaneous act of cowardice. (Read Abraham, Jacob, Rahab, David, etc...)So, lying is wrong just like everything else we do that displeases God. Can it be overlooked by adding human reasoning? Absolutely, just ask Corrie Ten Boom. But that doesn't mean God overlooks it. Maybe I'll add more later if need be.

To Lie or Not to Lie, That is the Question

2008-10-22T17:55:00.003-05:00

In Exodus 1, 15-21 the Hebrew midwives were instructed by Pharaoh to kill newborn male babies. The end result was when they reported back to Pharaoh they told a huge lie. It seems as if God blessed them and there is nothing indicating any wrongdoing on the women's part. In your opinion, were they justified in lying to Pharaoh?

1. Yes or no answers.

2. Support your answer with Scripture.

3. Try to explain what God's view would be based upon Scriptural resources. IE, who else may have lied and was blessed etc...

Good luck!

Birth

2008-10-14T08:46:00.002-05:00

Well not too many tried to tackle this one but I'll go ahead and share what I believe about the teaching.

Nic was a Jewish leader... a devout religious man who believed proper actions made you eligible for a spot in eternity with God. Jesus knowing this went straight to the heart of the matter. When Jesus said he must be born again He used a phrase that indicates being born "anew" or "from above". Nicodemus missed the point which is why the confusion settled in. So Jesus steers him straight when He discusses physical birth and spiritual birth.

Physical birth is being born of water and spirit. That is, we come from man, we are composed of dirt, carbon, metals, chemicals, and a bunch of yucky stuff, and we are part of a "people group".

So that part is what Nic was thinking about, sorta like when I type the word "saw"; what comes to your mind; a past tense vision, a stupid movie, or a tool?

This is why Jesus went on to say there needs to be a spiritual birth as well. We know that believers are to live "by the Spirit" and if they don't they "live in the flesh". Salvation means we have gone through a spiritual change whereby we are still physical bodies but the fleshly desires are being dealt with. Thus, we are born of the Spirit so we ought to be acting like it.

Nic and his buds were acting fleshly (even though they didn't realize it). Why? I'm glad you asked! Because there had never been the spiritual transformation allowing him to differentiate between fleshly and spiritly living. (Is that a word?)

Next Question

2008-10-08T10:41:00.002-05:00

In John chapter three, Jesus is met by a Pharisee named Nicodemus. (1-8) During their dialogue Jesus mentions four types of birth or birth concepts:

Born again

Born of water

Born of flesh

Born of Spirit

Do a little research and briefly (BEN) describe what Jesus means by each type of birth and how they tie in to verse 8.

Have a great time learning!

Regular Question Three Part 1

2008-09-30T11:10:00.004-05:00

OK. Here is the next regular question. Carefully read Exodus 32, Jeremiah 26, and Amos 6 and 7. In those three passage the Bible describes three separate instances where God would change His mind. Now we have to assume God is not wishy-washy and once He decides something He will stick to it; so:

1. What does God say He is going to do in the three situations and why?

2. What keeps God from doing what He says and how can we still believe God is not a liar?

3. Why do you suppose God "Changed His mind"?

Extra Credit: In Amos 7:8-9 God describes a plumb line. What is He talking about?

In conclusion, how can we beleive God is trustworthy when we see clear evidence the His mind can be changed?

Extra Credit follow-up

2008-09-28T08:53:00.001-05:00

OK. Four points for everyone to ponder in reference to this question:

1. The sin mentioned MUST BE OBSERVABLE. Key word is sees a brother...

2. Those who can commit this sin must be believers. (All sin is worthy of death save for the born-again)

3. What act can a believer commit that is observable, but not worthy of a prayer response?

4. Everyone missed the concept of the sin "Not leading to death" as the antithesis. If we "see" these sins, when do we pray? (Hint 1 John 1:9; private or corporate?)

More to follow later. Keep chewing cause I have a couple more questions a little more difficult than this one.

Extra Credit Question

2008-09-24T13:28:00.006-05:00

OK. Here is a new question for those of you who would like to tackle a tough one. Now this is not for the faint of heart nor for the commentary-cruisers out there. Try, using Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and a heart tuned to God to answer this little toughie.

In 1 John 5:16 John mentions a "Sin unto death"; what is this "sin" and how did you arrive at your conclusion?

Good luck... you will need it and lots of other help.

As people start to post I will comment on those posts to keep the dialogue open. I will never belittle any response nor make you sound foolish. I will however ask challenging questions to see if you might need to change part (or all) of your response. In other words, be ready to learn on this one!

What's the Use in Serving Other Gods?

2008-09-20T21:51:00.003-05:00

Have you ever wondered why we as believers still choose to sometimes follow after and "worship" gods other than GOD? Why do we choose to make things, or ideas, or aspirations supreme when we know they are not pleasing to God? In 2nd Chronicles 25:15 we read the story of King Amaziah and his choice to start worshipping the idols of the lands he just conquered. Now we read that God gave Amaziah the victory but he decided to worship the gods of the defeated kingdoms anyway. The absolutely hilarious part of this story is when jealous God sends courageous prophet to Amaziah and asked him a serious yet somewhat stupid question.

My paraphrase says something like this; "Hey Mr. king can I ask you a silly question? Why did you choose the gods of the people you just wooped-up on; they didn't do any good for them, what makes you so sure they will do anything for you?"

The king replies much the same way we do when we are confronted with those "idols" that don't seem to help anyone else but we decide to "worship" them just for the fun of it!

First, he threatened the prophet. Second, he sought advisors to get better intel. Third, he decided to go to war with the kingdom who sent the prophet. Fourth (unintentionally) he was dethroned and lost the shirt off his back.

But hey, isn't that what he gets for going ahead and choosing loser-gods? My God is absolutely supreme and He is very jealous. We need to stay out of bed with other lovers!

Question Two

2008-09-19T15:39:00.003-05:00

OK. Great job on the last question so here we go again. Read Luke 14:16-24 (The Parable of the Dinner) The dinner represents salvation offered by God (the man) and those invited are to come to the dinner prepared. So what we have explained are what I believe to be three groups of people.

The Orthodox Jews of the day are the invited guests who make excuses for not coming to the dinner. So the Master tells His slave to go find the poor, cripple, blind and lame of which many come to the table. These definitely fit the description of the types of people Jesus directly impacted through His ministry. The final group are those along the Highways and hedges who are to be compelled to come to the dinner. This third group are Gentiles and Jesus explains the significance of their invitation.

So your question is this; If Jesus is the slave and we are the physical "body of Christ" on earth:

1. What is our task as represented by this parable?

2. What are we to do as directed by the Master?

3. What are we doing specifically to fill His house?

Question1 part three

2008-09-13T18:20:00.004-05:00

OK. Everyone is thinking and everyone is on track. Let's simplify the discussion now and focus on just two aspects. A: It seems like a few of you see man's religion as somewhat "rules" oriented. In the context of the modern church, list three rules we need to follow and three that are more governed by man. Remember, keep it simple.

Rules to keep:

1._______________________________

2._______________________________

3._______________________________

Rules not necessarily needed:

1._______________________________

2._______________________________

3._______________________________

Part B: Now, as far as true religion is concerned, challenge yourself to complete the following sentences.

1. James 1:27 gives us the way to honor God through true religion. As a result I will commit to

________________ by doing ________________________; as a result I expect

_________________ to happen.

Good luck! You have til Wednesday, Sept 17 to pray about your answers.

Question 1 part two

2008-09-12T22:08:00.002-05:00

OK. You have started the thinking process and it seems like you have some pretty profound feelings and thoughts about the issue. But let me ask you to take it one step further. Look once again at the Scripture, re-read the question, and then specifically address the ACTIONS that reveal true religion. Compare those ACTIONS with what takes place in our modern culture of "religion." Doing so will accomplish three things... to be continued.

First question: True religion versus man's religion

2008-09-11T11:49:00.003-05:00

OK. Let's begin by looking at James 1:27. Here is your question: James tells us what real religion is all about. In your own words, can you describe the differences between man's idea of religion and the actions related to them and God's idea of religion and the actions we should be doing as a result? Make a brief comparison between the typical approach to religion today and what should be the Godly approach. Good luck!

New Label and activity added

2008-09-11T11:42:00.004-05:00

I have added a new label and activity for those who are training in my small groups. Everyone is invited to join in and become part of the discussion.

How it works:

I will be posting questions occasionally to open dialogue with students. These questions are designed to encourage deeper thinking and deeper study of Scripture. I encourage readers to make attempts to answer the questions openly and as honestly as possible. However, if questions need to be asked prior to answering, feel free to post those questions and I will give hints along the way.

To respond simply click the comment link below and post you comments. If you have any questions feel free to email me at Brother.richard@gmail.com

Well Intentioned Dragons

2008-08-15T08:44:00.000-05:00

When Uzzah reached out to steady the Ark (1 Chronicles 13:9-10) he never dreamed what would happen next. Uzzah's desire was to keep the treasured Ark from toppling off the oxcart and when it started to teeter he instinctively reached out to steady it. Only problem is God said never touch it, period! God didn't say don't touch it unless it tips. He didn't say don't touch it unless you can think of a good reason why you should. God said don't touch it. He also said if you do touch it you will die!
Uzzah just wasn't thinking. Uzzah did what many of us do when things begin to topple... reach out and try steady things before they fall over. Most people who react to problems have good intentions but when they react they cause more harm than good. Within church ministry these people are sometimes called "Well Intentioned Dragons." People who think they are doing the right thing yet as soon as they act things begin to fall down all around them.
The difference between dragons and actual problem solvers can be summed up by evaluating the process and motivation behind their actions. Uzzah died because he failed to gain Godly approval and just reacted out of instinct. Look quickly at three major criteria we can use to evaluate whether we are dragons or problem solvers.
1. Are we reacting out of emotion. Is the reason we are getting involved because we are angry, upset, hurt, discouraged, etc? Are we reacting because we feel wronged or we feel like our way is being disrupted? If so we are a dragon regardless of our intentions.
2. Are we acting directly against the Word of God. If God says don't do it there is no way to justify why we think we should. God's Word is not open for individual interpretation so we must not assume because we think we are correct we actually are.
3. Are we going to hurt someone by our response? No matter how hurt you may be there is no justification for levelling that hurt upon someone else. If your action does (or have the potential to) hurt someone it is dragonish! (Is that a word?)
Uzzah just reacted and you want to know something, so did God! Does God deal with dragons in our midst today? You better believe it. So from now on, even though things seem to be toppling allow God to right the ship if it really is getting ready to capsize. Really now, do you thing your way or you ideas are the only ones that can keep the ship afloat?

Jabez and Selfishness

2008-08-08T08:02:00.000-05:00

Read through the entire Bible and you become bogged down in the first chapters of the Chronicles. Yeah, God has a sense of humor or else He would have spared us these chapters of practically every name of every Israelite ever born. Well not quite but it sure seems that way. Then you finally make it to chapter 4 of First Chronicles and God throws you a change-up. Today Jabez and his prayer is innocently being misused because of how we want to pray for the same things he prayed for. As if he asks God for a special favor or something.
Several years ago a guy by the name of Bruce Wilkinson wrote a book called the "Prayer of Jabez". It soon became a bestseller I think because it tried to convince readers that getting what we want is as easy as reciting Jabez's prayer every morning. What we fail to recognize about Jabez is simple to see when we just study the passage in context and for what it really tries to teach us.
First of all, Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. We don't know how or why he was it just says he was. So when we pray, are we seeking God as a way to be honored by Him or to honor Him in our requests? Second was the idea of shelter from pain and protection from the evil in our world. Jabez had a reason for asking God to bless him and enlarge his territory and I do not believe it was for selfish reasons. Somehow Jabez was asking for a greater slice of God's pie and it wasn't to become more healthy, wealthy, or wise. Study the text and you will discover the real reason for his prayer was to avoid what his mother had to endure. After all, if your name is painful don't you think it would be all right to ask for some relief every now and then?

Business as usual

2008-07-26T20:55:00.000-05:00

I have created a new label for some future blogs called Going out of Business! Last Wednesday I was driving along sixth street in Decatur Alabama and I noticed a sign that said "After ninety years... Going out of Business...As usual"! At first I thought how sad, after all those years this establishment was calling it quits. Then I got it! The "AS USUAL" part hit me like a ton of bricks. This establishment was calling it quits to what it once did. It was saying goodbye to whatever it was that made them less effective as they had been before. This establishment had decided the status quo was no longer going to cut it! Want to hear something really amazing? The sign was on the side of a church building. Now, I say it is time we too call it quits and go out of business... as usual!

The Journey of Tasks

2008-07-22T06:27:00.000-05:00

This morning I am sitting down in Chattanooga, TN. Believe it or not we are on vacation! I have determined to make rest a priority from now on! I now know why Jesus took a nap in a boat and went to the other side of the sea. Sometimes the everyday challenges of life become so taxing we relegate ourselves to just plodding along in life, dealing with the stress and headaches associated with the journey of tasks!
God wants us to work but He wants us to work for Him! Sometimes we do the good but we fail to do the better. The better is the place God is at and He wants us to be there as well. Without the better in life we can settle for little more than trying to do good. And the sad thing is we settle with good and then even our good becomes less than good and before we know it, what used to be the good has now become our better and the better God desires is no longer in sight.
My goal is to seek God's better all the time! It is His will I am to accomplish and I will do my best to not do good assuming I am doing better. I want to do God's will which is always better than any good I can muster on my own!

Back at it!

2008-05-08T14:40:00.000-05:00

Well it has been a long time since I have blogged. Too busy? Well yes and no. The pictures on the blog slide show tell the story. So far we have moved about 500 tons of gravel and a million gallons of water to get where we are now. And we have really just begun. Beyond the physical struggle lies the real issue with the building progress. The spiritual significance of what is taking place has far more impact than a building. Having said that, we are currently facing a huge crisis of belief. The concrete contractor doubts he has enough time to get the floor poured prior to the building start date. After the rain we just had I am leaning that direction myself. I am not a doubter but as I see things I ask God to help as only He can. First, He can bring the sun and give us the days we need to get the concrete poured. Second, He can not allow us to get finished which leads us to another point; why? Not why as in complaining or whining, but why in the sense of what is His purpose? Either way we need to trust God fully. Whether we get what we want or what God wants is a matter of whether we want what God wants. Make sense?

My God Is Bigger Than Your God!

2008-03-25T08:23:00.000-05:00

1 Samuel chapter five tells a cool story of God's power over the local gods of the Philistines. After doing something stupid like taking the Ark of the Covenant into battle with them, the Israelites were defeated and the Philistines stole the Ark. Knowing it represented the Hebrew God they decided to put in the temple of their God named Dagon. They placed the ark next to the statue of Dagon and went home for the night. The next day they found Dagon's statue had fallen face first to the ground. They picked it up and once again left. The next day the statue was on the ground but this time the head was broken off as were the hands.
Well the people of Ashdod knew was going on so they decided to get rid of the thing. This is where we are today. Lots of folks see the hand of God at work but instead of changing ways and worshipping God, they fear Him and want Him to get away from them. But realize this, God's power is an awesome power and you cannot run from it. Allow Him to work that power in your life and feel the presence within you. From now on don't be surprised when you see God do something incredible and people respond by doing something stupid. They are trying to get their own god's to act on their behalf but they have nothing but a toppling torso for support.

25 Years of Marriage

2008-03-10T10:44:00.001-05:00

Teresa and I have been married 25 years as of March 5th. We had an awesome time in celebration and renewing of vows and cannot wait to see what God does over the next 25years. We had a PowerPoint presentation with some past pictures and is available via this blog. Let me know if you have trouble locating it.

Can you say busy?

2008-03-10T10:34:00.000-05:00

With the building planning going full speed, family visiting from out of town and planning our 25th wedding anniversary celebration I have been going full speed ahead for too long. Finally I have some breathing room! I am reminded that sometimes we can become so busy we fail to do what is really important. I checked my Bible reading schedule today and found out I am a week behind in my journey to read the Bible through in a year. Now I have some catching-up to do so I will get at it.

Church Hopping for Dummies

2008-02-19T16:55:00.000-06:00

I read Numbers 22 the other day and an idea hit me. Maybe the reason for people doing all kinds of church hopping these days is to try to find a different location to get better reception for a blessing from God. I remember the days when you had to mess with the rabbit ears to get a good TV signal. Put some foil on them, move them around the top of the set, or twist that little dial in the middle to try to watch something without all the static. Maybe some people just think if they move a little here or there then God will come in loud and clear.Old Balak was the king of the Moabites and was getting word via some sort of poll that his people were a little scared of God's people being so close and all. Balak thought it would be a good idea to get the best curser around (no not the Marine Corp buddy kind of cursing) to pronounce a curse upon God's people. He sent word to Balaam who proved to be the biggest mule in the bunch but not the best spoken. Anyway Balaam decided it was best to bless God's people so he did just that. When we read numbers 23 we see that Balak thought he ought to try a different location; maybe a different view of God's people would provoke the desired curse. Oh boy does that not sound familiar? You know when people get a little upset because God’s people are on the move so they get huffy and dismiss themselves. No explanation. No communication. Just up and leave and show up at some other church that unbelievably is happy to have them. They are looking for a blessing among another group of God’s people who will no doubt start inflicting the same sort of dire dilemmas that caused them to move in the first place. Oh, believe me; it won’t be long until one of two things starts to happen. First, they will last a while and then get fidgety again cause they see God moving among His people. Or second, they get settled into their new role as quiet and contentment sets in because God’s people at the new location aren’t being moved by God. Finally they find a place of peace and rest.
Funny thing is the place they left becomes a little better off now that they are gone. At least that’s how it happened in Numbers 22 and 23. I am guessing that just may be the way it happens in churches today.

94 Days and Counting

2008-02-19T16:32:00.000-06:00

I just left a meeting with the architect and we are well on our way to May 23rd. 94 days til the building starts reaching for the sky. Keep praying and believing and trust in what God can do.
So, I have been swamped with building stuff so my bloggin has been laggin. Maybe I can call it the laggin blog or something like that. After tomorrow I should be caught up on my posts.

Ain't God Good

2008-02-18T13:40:00.000-06:00

We just received word that our prayer has been answered. We have been chosen as a project for a major volunteer group to come this summer to help us construct our new buidling. May 23-30 is the date for them to come. Be in prayer and be ready to get a little dirty to get the project finished.

Building Buzz

2008-02-13T08:19:00.000-06:00

If you are wondering where I have been I have been wrestling with the new building project. Yes, we are very near the actual start of construction and busy is an understatement. So, I have created a new blog category called Building Buzz. Anything (almost) you want to know about the building process you can read about right here. So for now, keep checking back as I add updates and try to keep everyone informed.

We are Now Crosspoint

2008-02-05T14:19:00.000-06:00

Have you heard the awesome news? Yeah God is definitely doing a work in our midst. Since October 2007 we have baptized 13 people. We are ready to begin the next phase of the new building construction. We have united around and are excited about our new name. We are now Crosspoint and not only do we have a new name, we believe we have a new and unique identity. More to come on this later!

The point of our existence is to glorify God. We know that doesn’t mean doing what we want or what feels best for us, it means we are reaching out to our neighbors and letting our community know we love them and we care for them. I have evaluated this noticeable outpouring of God’s Spirit and can confidently proclaim He began to do His work when we as a church decided to start doing something about the needs of those around us.

We asked nothing in return. We made huge sacrifices and relied upon God to take care of the hard stuff. We provided school supplies for close to a hundred children. We made Christmas a little better by supporting close to sixty families at Christmas time. We are also seeing new ministries develop like a multi-housing ministry in a local apartment complex, a new Sunday School class for single-again women, and three new home based cell getting ready to launch.

Yes, God is at work and we are thrilled to be part of what He is doing. God is doing because we have started doing by becoming. Too often we want to “do” church but ever since we started “being” the church God has started showing how faithful he is.

So let me ask you a question; have you started being the church? In what way specifically? If you are having a hard time answering then come see us this Sunday and find out for yourself what revival in God’s church looks like when it’s just starting!

Why We should not Fake Worship

2008-02-05T09:54:00.000-06:00

I was reading Leviticus 10 the other day. (Yeah, I know it has been a while since I added any entry but I do more than just blog all day) Anyway, verses 1 and 2 describe a wierd scene. Aaron the priest had two sons who decided to try their own method of worshipping God. Instead of doing things God's way they decided to worship God their own way. Nadab and Abihu are the two men who are recorded in the annals of Biblical history as the brothers who were fired-up when it came to worship. Unfortunately for them and the rest of the family, being fired-up meant being literally consumed by God's fire.
We all do a lot of dumb things and we may think we are getting away with them but we are not. I believe the story of Nadab and Abihu is written to remind us of the seriousness of worship. We are not to take it lightly nor complain about the way we are to approach God. We can fool man by bringing to God (or pretending to bring to God) that which we feel is acceptable. The HCSB translates the offering as "unauthorized." The NASB uses the word "strange." The bottom-line is God has detailed the way we are to worship Him. I believe the story of these two brothers is a story to remind us of how serious God takes worship. Now I don't think He is upset when we change the tempo or the types of music. God doesn't see unigue and contemporary technigues and even technology as unauthorized. I believe God is concerned with three things when His children worship Him.
1. He wants us to be present. Not attending worship services is definately strange. Why do people who profess to be members of God's family not want to partcipate in worship?
2. God wants us to participate. The audience of worship is God. Everyone is to sing, praise, pray, and respond to God when we meet with Him through worship.
3. God wants us to be passionate. We ought to love God so much we can't wait for a chance to respond to His Word. Passion for God should drive us, not passion for self. Everyone should be consumed by God's fire when we worship. I suggest we avoid the literal fire and allow God's Spirit to consume us.
We don't know why Nadab and Abihu felt the need to stray from the prescribed path of worship but they did. God didn't like it so God dealt with it.
Let me ask you a serious question; If God dealt with phony worship today like He did then, what kind of fire would burn us?

Why are Idols so Bad Anyway?

2008-01-27T08:51:00.000-06:00

As the nation of Israel was preparing for their journey to the promised land, God was taking the steps to prepare them for the spiritual journey that was ahead of them. He sent Moses to the top of Mount Sinai to reveal the basic rules for the people to follow. In Exodus 24 we read about a special ceremony celebrating God's covenant with Moses and the rest of the Israelites. When we read verses 9 and following we see a very special honor being bestowed upon 74 special men. Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and 70 elders of Israel are allowed the special privilege of seeing God. Not only did they get to see Him, they sat down and had a little snack in God's presence. I can only imagine what it must have been like for these 74 men to have this fellowship opportunity.
Continue reading the book of Exodus and you will come to chapter 33, verse 20. God was speaking to Moses and basically said, "Sorry my friend, you cannot see." "No one can see God and live!" At first glance this concept seems easy to grasp, after all, how many times have we seen Charlton Heston turn his back when God appeared to him? Study carefully and we will learn a huge lesson about idolatry. As I read these chapters I did so at one sitting, from chapter 22 through chapter 38. I have read them many time before but for some reason this time I saw something I had not sen before. In Exodus 24, 74 men are sitting in the presence of God and 9 chapters later not even Moses is allowed to see God! What happened to cause the radical change?
I believe the answer lies in chapter 32. God's people became a little bothered by how long it took for Moses to get finished hearing all God had to say. Kind of like how some people get bothered when God decides to speak a little after twelve noon on Sundays! Anyway, God was very displeased with His people after they built an image which He explicitly said not to do. This is the only thing I can think of that would have caused God to change the way He allowed people to enter His presence. So the question arises, "Is idolatry really all that bad?" And the answer is absolutely.
God knows how every one of us is drawn to worldly and sinful things. He knows the struggle we have making everything but God and His will a priority. We may not make a little statue depicting our favorite football team or our cabin at the lake, but when we place those things above God and His purpose they become idols. Anything that we allow to come between us and God is an idol. No amount of excuses, reasoning, or justification is sufficient to change God's mind about the subject. We can convince ourselves (and others) but we ain't fooling God! When an idol is before us we can no longer be in God's presence because we have chosen the wrong "object" of affection.
We must deal with our idols immediately! Later I will share what some of these could be and how to deal with them. For now let's just start by accepting the fact that we all have them and we need to ask God to show us what they are. The last things we are to do is deny we have anything to do with idols. When Moses asked Aaron why this happened (Exodus 32:24) Aaron replied; "I said to them, "Whoever has gold, take it off," and they gave it to me. "When I threw it into the fire, out came this calf!"
Yeah, right!

Saying "No" to God

2008-01-21T11:04:00.000-06:00

How many times did Moses try to tell God no? Just about every time God was ready to use Moses, Moses tried to lay down an excuse. "I'm sorry God, I've just never been a very good speaker" or, "How will people know who sent me?" Read Exodus 3:11, 13; 4:1, 10, 13; 5:23; 6:12, 30. Moses said no to God more than a mother says no to a teenager asking for money! Every time Moses said no, God said yes you will and He provided ample reason to believe He is trustworthy. When was the last time you said no to God? Have you ever tried to consider why you would say no? Is it fear? Is it laziness? Is it because you have to change? Maybe it is because you lack the faith needed to accomplish what God desires for your life.
The result is God's people stop striving for a close relationship with Him. Why draw near to God if all He does is ask us to do something for Him? How sad to think that a believer won't work on his or her relationship with God for fear that relationship will turn into a directive to get busy.
Hey people... It's time to start Being the church!

Why do bad things happen to good people?

2008-01-21T11:03:00.000-06:00

We ask God "why" so often it has become more a habit than a real query. Unfortunately when we ask why we very seldom get a response until God reveals His perfect will. Take a look at Exodus chapter 5. Moses is being obedient to God and begins the process of explaining to Pharaoh he needs to let the Hebrews go back to their homeland. Instead of compliance, Pharaoh becomes a harder taskmaster and makes the Israelites produce the same amount of work with less materials. And wouldn't you know it, everyone has the same response to God. Why God? Why are you doing this to us? We have got along so well in the past and now we have nothing but troubles.
Sound familiar doesn't it? As soon a little struggle comes our way we tend to default to the ages-old question of why. My suggestion is for God's people to understand how God works and reveals Himself to people. I remember as a child my father trying to explain to me why pain was a gift from God. You put your hand on a hot burner on the stove and you receive an immediate sensation of pain and your brain says, "Do that again and that's what it will feel like." And wouldn't you know it, you stop putting your hand anywhere near a hot stove! Without the pain we would keep our hand on the hot surface until we no longer had a hand. The same analogy works in every area of pain in a person's life. Without the pain we would eventually become so accustomed to the conditions around us we would no longer realize right from wrong or good from bad. And to be totally honest (not like I haven't been but it just sounds good to say it) we wouldn't know what deliverance from God was all about either.
Until we feel the "pain" we can never know how powerful and mighty God is. Without pain there is no relief, no rescue, and no salvation! Why do bad things happen to good people? So God can do even better things as He shows Himself to be a totally awesome and trustworthy God.

The Joy of God's friendship (OT 1-1 Coach)

2008-01-16T11:11:00.000-06:00

How to be God’s Friend

The Joy of God’s Friendship!

Awareness:
You think ten years is a long time to wait, there is a thirteen year span between Genesis 16 and 17. What happened in those thirteen years? Was God silent? Had He turned His back on Abram because of mistakes? No, God had been walking daily with His friend Abram and He was now ready to reveal His final plan to Abram. Go ahead and look at James 2:23 to see why we have called this study How to be God’s Friend. Now a couple of questions arise. Who best lived up to the standard of friendship, Abram or God? Of course God did because He is God but we can still learn a lot about friendship through Abram’s actions and attitudes. Now, to be the friend of God will require all the traits we have studied so far but the most important thing a friend can do is to spend quality time with their friends. Abram did this very well. This study will explain why there is such great joy in friendship with God.

Answers:
1. How many truly good friends do you have?

2. What distinguishes a friend from a good friend?

3. Have you ever separated from a good friend? ___________________ How did you feel?

4. Who would you consider to be your best friend? ___________________ Why?

5. Do you think in the end, God will have called you His friend? _______________ Why or why not?

6. No matter how bad we mess up God still loves us and His plan for us is always perfect. As we will see God still holds Abram in high regard. So high in fact that He works some awesome miracles through him. Humanly speaking Abram had blown it. Why do you believe God still wanted to use Abram?

Read Genesis 17. We are going to conclude this study by seeing the four “Joys” in walking with God in friendship.
The Joy in the Waiting!
7. Abram previously had waited ten years and now was completing another thirteen. Twenty three years is an awful long time to wait for God to reveal His plan. Abram made mistakes during the first ten years but he also must have done a lot of things right. Abram had proven three things about his waiting. Three things we must prove as well. Briefly discuss why these three traits are vital.
a. The Joy of Loving God while we wait.

b. The joy of No more mistakes.

c. The joy of finally trusting God’s plan.

8. Twenty three years! Have you had to wait that long for anything?_________ How did you cope?

The Joy in the Walking!
9. Walking with God will require us to achieve two things. God commands these at the end of verse one. What are these two requirements?
a. ____Live with God____________________________

b. _____Be devout___________________________

10. When these two requirements are met and maintained consistently there will be a wonderful change that takes place. What was a significant change in Abram’s life?
A new identity
11. Other than salvation, name a significant change in your life as a result of your walk with God?

The Joy in the Word
12. Along with God’s promise came a covenant. A covenant is an agreement made between a powerful person and a weaker one. This type of agreement is called a “Suzerainty” which ensures the weaker is afforded protection. However, God always keeps his promise so to ensure the promise; man is required to keep his. At this time God made only one requirement. What was it?
Keep God’s covenant and prove it by circumcision.
13. Why do you suppose God required this of Abraham and his descendants?
Perpetuate the faith as a lasting mark.
14. Believe it or not this was a sort of ID card, a sign that Abraham belonged to God. Read Ephesians 1:13-14, what is our ID card? Circumcised heart

The Joy in the Worship
15. What was Abraham’s response to God’s directive? He did it.

16. Does worship always involve singing and preaching and attending a service? ___no__________

17. By observing Abraham, what one word would best describe the most effective way to worship God?
Obedience
18. Would that sometimes involve 16 above? sometimes

Application:
Abraham finally made it. He has begun to see what God intended for him and God’s promise was starting to make sense and Abraham was a happy man. As we learn to be God’s friend let us remember those key elements.
19. Identify specific steps you will take to incorporate the following in your life.
a. Waiting on God __________________________________________

b. Walking with God ________________________________________

c. Obeying His Word ________________________________________

d. Worshipping God ________________________________________

Waiting on God (OT1-1 Coach)

2008-01-16T10:59:00.000-06:00

How to be God’s Friend

Wanting it Now When God Says to Wait!

Awareness:
Things seemed to have settled down for a while with Abram and his tribe. Lot was back to his shenanigans and Abram was enjoying his prosperity. I’m sure he had a lot of time on his hands to think… especially about the promise God made to him about having an heir. No doubt God decided to encourage Abram so He reminds him once again of His promise. Chapter 15 is a look at God’s wonderful plan for Abram. Trouble is when chapter 16 starts, 10 years may have passed and still no sign of any offspring. Suddenly Sarai has an idea. She talks with Abram and like a ninny decides she made be on to something. But why abandon God’s plan, he had waited ten years, what’s a little longer? Today’s Christians have this same dilemma to face almost every day. We know God has a plan and we wait for a while but then we tend to want to go ahead and act on our own. Many times we do so thinking we are doing good, when actually we are messing things up pretty bad. Let’s use this study to learn how to be patient and wait on God.

Answers:
1. How you ever had to wait a long time for something special?

2. What was it like growing up having to wait for December 25th?

3. Be honest! Did you ever peek in a package to see what you were getting?________ Why?

4. Do you remember how you felt at first and then the big let-down?

5. Why do you think it is so hard to wait on God’s timing for things?

6. Have you ever tried to speed God’s plans up a little bit?________ Explain?

Read Genesis 15 and 16
7. Like a kid who can’t wait for Christmas Abram becomes impatient waiting on God’s promise. In 15:4 God reiterates His promise to Abram and in verse 6 we see Abram believes God to the point that God credited him with righteousness. But as chapter 16 begins we see Abram’s belief isn’t quite so strong. What do you suppose could be some factors that caused Abram to doubt?
Having to wait so long
8. Look at 16:2. Whose idea was it to initially try a different approach?
Sarai
9. Do you think Abram’s impatience contributed to his lack of judgment?
Yes
10. According to 16:3, how long has Abram waited?
At least 10 years
11. When we get tired of waiting do we ever try to “help” God a little and start doing things on our own? What did Abram do (verses 3-4)
Slept with Sarai’s servant
12. How did Sarai respond after she knew Hagar was pregnant?
Looked down on her
13. Why the change of heart? Jealousy

14. Who does Sarai now blame?___Abram____________ Do we ever blame others for the results of our impatience?

15. Can you see why patience is necessary to be God’s friend?

16. How many lives were affected because Abram just couldn’t wait any longer? (using a Bible dictionary or commentary, do a brief study on the life of Ishmael for a better look at the impact this decision had)

Application:
When Sarai and Abram made their choice they circumvented the plan God had already established. There is nothing wrong with being impatient, just when we act against the will of God and try to make things happen on our own. Here are some traits we can work on to improve our own ability to wait on God.
Trusting Relationships
17. Abram trusted God when He followed God. When he received unwise counsel he was tempted to act apart from God’s will. Why is it important to seek wise and Godly counsel prior to acting?

18. What should Abram have done when Sarai made the suggestion? Refused and wait on God

Steady Resolve
19. Abram had already made up his mind to follow God. He had also learned what happens when he does things on his own. What could you do to be steadier in your resolve to trust God?

Seeking Righteousness
20. It was quite obvious that sleeping with Hagar was wrong. Why do you think righteous people do sinful things? Poor judgment at times. Impatience.

21. What did Abram do almost as if he was washing his hands of any wrongdoing (verse 6)? Returned servant back to Sarai

Avoiding Repercussions
22. If you studied Ishmael as mentioned above you probably have an idea of the impact Abram’s choice had made. Look at 16:11-12 and see how Ishmael (who committed no crime) would be condemned for Abram’s sinful act. What were the results of God’s curse upon him?
a. ___Like a wild donkey____________________________

b. ___Everyone’s enemy____________________________

c. ___Enmity with his brothers____________________________
23. Is trusting God very important?

Who do you blame? Part two.

2008-01-13T07:03:00.000-06:00

How easy is it for you to jump to conclusions? Sometimes when we see or experience the not-so-good things that happen around us we wonder why? Why does a young family have to go through a foreclosure on a home? Why do innocent children die in accidents? Why do some of the simplest surgical procedures turn out to be years-long ordeals? Why did Jesus die on the cross? Each of those questions can be answered in one of two ways. We can try to propose some complex rationale for all the events that have to happen in order for the situation to become what it is. Or, we can see it in it's simplest form and say "just because." Yeah, I know that's where we can sometimes be called uncaring or unconcerned. But to be serious about it can we not see everything that happens in life as part of God's ultimate and wonderful plan for His kingdom?
Take Joseph for instance. At last look we saw how he was struggling to endure trial after trial as an innocent victim. Starting in Genesis 37 and continuing through chapter 44, we can see the ups and the downs of Joseph's life. But why? When he is tossed in a well we can ask why? When sold into slavery or falsely accused of a crime we can ask why? Really, whatever happens in life we can constantly ask, why? And what response do we too often receive? Because! And that pretty well sums it all up, right? Actually to make sense of those trials in life will demand a great deal of faithfulness. Joseph stayed true to his heritage as a Hebrew and his acknowledgement of his standing before God. You see, when we trust God totally we have hope that His plan is better than ours could ever be and He is the one that will guide us through. Read Genesis 45:4-8 and try to hear the heart of Joseph. He knows why he suffered. He even defers blame away from his brothers and somewhat places it upon God. Strange thing to think about, blaming God huh? Well as we move on let's try to learn two things. First, don't blame God for anything. He may be the one directly responsible but He knows what He is doing. Rather see things from the perspective of what I like to call cause-for-effect. Blame tends to sound so negative but when God needs things to happen for His purpose, He can and does take control of His created world. When God takes control it is for the best. Second, our faithfulness through any circumstance provides the hope we need to endure and receive the blessing when God finally reveals His purpose.
Joseph knew why his brothers started the chain of events that were chaotic at first but eventually became a vehicle for restoring relationships and even saving a race of people.
Jesus also knew what ordeals were all about. So let me ask a question; who is to blame for Jesus' death on the cross? Before you answer think about the way God works in His creation.

Who do you blame?

2008-01-10T15:54:00.000-06:00

Joseph just so happened to be favored by his father Jacob. It was not his fault that he was stuck in the middle of a bitter rivalry between his brothers and his dad. Joseph was being Joseph but it appears it was a curse from the day he turned 17. Thing is that God was doing something nobody could have imagined. God was going to use the family struggles to bring about salvation for the family. But Joseph was the Innocent one and had to endure the hardest trials.
Sometimes we may think God isn't fair and from our perspective that would be true. However, there is a simple key to understanding how God works in the middle of any circumstance. Faithfulness. Joseph was faithful in everything that came his way. Dropped in a pit! Sold into slavery! Accused of trying to force himself upon Potiphar's wife! Left in prison after making a promise! What more did he have to go through?
Then one day God said it is time and Joseph quickly rose to being the second most powerful man in the world. He was second to none other than the Pharaoh of Egypt. Did he use that power to punish his brothers? Did he use that power to get back for the hard years? No, Joseph did what faithful people do. He embraced God first and tried to understand the plan laid before him. After all, in the end Joseph is found to be honored, not because he was second to Pharaoh but because he was faithful to God.
So wherever you find yourself today' even if you feel you are completely innocent, the answer to seeing the outcome better is to be faithful. Trust God and He will guide you.

Restoring Relationships

2008-01-09T15:18:00.000-06:00

Today I read Genesis 33. In verse 10 Jacob is finally ready to face Esau (the brother he deceived twice) and was doing everything he could to appease the potential wrath. Jacob sent livestock and servants in front of himself in the hopes that Esau would be compassionate once Jacob came face to face. Instead of anger, Esau showed compassion. Esau had every right to be angry and continue to hold a grudge. Instead, God was at work in his life and he allowed the relationship to be restored.
But we read verse 10 and Jacob makes a startling observation.

But Jacob said, "No, please! If I have found favor with you, take this gift from my hand. For indeed, I have seen your face, [and it is] like seeing God's face, since you have accepted me.

What better way to describe the feeling when two or more people can mend a broken relationship. God is the God of reconciliation. That is His number-one priority and it has been since Adam and Eve first sinned. Let me encourage you by asking you three questions.
1. Are you aware of any relationships that are strained or broken?
2. Are you taking the Biblical and necessary steps to be an "Esau" and be the first to offer forgiveness?
3. Are you ready to "see the face of God" when that relationship is restored.

Jacob and Esau mended what was broken and Scripture clearly records the result. What do you think will be the result when you do the same?

Stay faithful and God will bless!

Scripture verses

2008-01-08T10:16:00.000-06:00

Men’s and women’s Groups Bible Verses.

Psalm 51:10

2 Cor. 4:7

Phil 2:2

Phil 1:21

Psalm 119:11

Matthew 6:1

Joshua 1:9

1 Cor. 9:19

Hebrews 3:12-13

Psalm 37:23-24

Matthew 7:7-8

2 Cor 5:20

John 15:7-8

Romans 12:1-2

Psalm 40:3

Prov 22:19

2 Timothy 3:16-17

Colossians 2:4

Prov 3:5

1 John 4:18

Revised questions for men

2008-01-08T09:22:00.000-06:00

Men’s Accountability Questions

1. Memorize the Scripture passage for the week.

2. What is the main focus of this passage?

3. Why do I need to apply it to my life?

4. In my struggle with time management I will give up 15 30 45 60 minutes of _________________ to refresh my spiritual life.

5. Church attendance: I believe I need to be present for every worship and prayer opportunity! Why or why not? [Hebrews 10:25]

6. Since I agree I need to be present, I will commit to being present at

a. Sunday School (Why or why not)

b. Morning Worship (Why or why not)

c. Afternoon Bible Study (Why or why not)

d. Wednesday Prayer meeting (Why or why not)

7. As a leader in my home I believe my family will follow my example in attendance. Why or why not?

8. To strengthen my marriage I have committed to a time of daily devotion with my wife. I’ve kept my commitment ____ of 7 days.

9. List the name of a lost person you are praying for by name?

10. What are you specifically doing to share Christ with that person?

11. List at least one ministry of the church you are participating in.

a. What specifically have you accomplished this week in that ministry?

b. How can you grow as a leader in that ministry area?

12. As I strive for maturity my biggest obstacle to overcome this week has been?

13. What steps have you/will you take to overcome it?

14. I promise to be back next week.

15. I have not lied about any responses.

Women's questions

2008-01-08T09:01:00.000-06:00

Accountability Protocol

To experience true accountability, we have both the right and the responsibility to ask each other hard and to-the-point questions. Our goal must be not just to help each other feel good but to help each other be good. The questions we ask will be changed or adjusted as needed to keep us focused on becoming better women of faith. The point is not to be legalistic but to check up on one another in a meaningful and responsible way.

Do you give every woman in your group permission to be hard and loving in their desire to grow with you through accountability?

Group Rules

We will meet once every week at a mutually agreeable time.

We will start and end on time (1 hour maximum).

We will speak freely, openly, and honestly about the true condition of our soul.

We will rotate who speaks first at each meeting.

We will never, ever share anything we discuss together outside this group for any reason without explicit permission and only on a case by case basis.

We will periodically call one another to encourage, challenge, and support as the Spirit leads.

We will not allow the flesh to interfere with the work of the Spirit in our lives by making excuses, missing meetings, or half-stepping through this process.

We are purposing in our hearts to be morally pure and accountable to other women for our walk with God and others.

Questions we will ask on a monthly basis:

1. What are the biggest barriers to my relationship with God?

2. What are the biggest barriers to my relationship with my husband or other family members?

3. What are the most serious temptations I face at home? Work? Elsewhere?

4. If Satan were to wage an all out attack on my life, where would he focus?

5. How can your sisters help you and pray for you?

Women’s Accountability Questions

1. I memorized the Scripture passage for this week? (Ps 119:11)

2. To me, this verse means ________________________

3. I can apply it to my life by _______________________

4. How much time did you spend daily in communion with God? (Mt 14:23)

I spent 0 to 2hours _____, 3-5 hours _______, 5 or more hours ________

5. In my commitment to God and the church I was present for all church meeting opportunities except _______________. (Heb 10:25)

6. I feel God and you women will accept ________________ as a valid reason, otherwise it is just an excuse and I will change.

7. My biggest barrier to effective witnessing this week was… (1 Pet 3:15)

a. No contact with a lost person.

b. Need for a partner to assist me.

c. Did not make the effort or take the time.

d. Did not know what to say.

e. I am working on a relationship with ________________.

8. My spiritual journey this week has been… (Gal 2:20)

a. Just leaving the starting line.

b. Shifted into ____. Why do you feel this way?

c. Coasting to: Conserve fuel/change course/charge ahead. (pick one)

d. The pedal is to the metal.

e. I am in the lead, waiting for others to catch up.

9. What is keeping me from moving to the next level?

10. In my prayer life this week I: (reply to all) (1 Tim 2:1-2; 1Jn. 5:14-15; Mt 5:44)

a. Prayed for my spiritual leaders (pastor, teachers, etc).

b. Prayed _____ out of 7 days for my husband and children.

c. Prayed for someone who caused me harm.

d. Followed through on my promise to pray for someone.

11. In my home this last week, have my actions and words been used more for building up or tearing down? In doing so what kind of climate did I create? (Prov 14:1)

a. Cloudy and overcast

b. Bright and sunny

c. Showers and thunderstorms

d. Blizzard

12. What has hindered me from truly worshiping this past week? Am I Biblically justified in my reason? (Psalm 100)

13. Am I aware of an offense between myself and someone else? What steps have I taken to resolve it? (Mt. 5:23-24)

14. How did I serve this week without expecting praise/something in return? (Mt 6:1)

15. Were you able to be patient when someone inconvenienced you or bothered you? In order to respond better next time I need to ______? (1 Cor 13:4)

16. I promise to be back next week!

17. I have not lied about any responses.

2008-01-03T14:43:00.000-06:00

Happy 2008! Another year has flown by and we are blessed to have lived through 2007. God has begun a wonderful new work in our midst and I hope you are as excited as I am to see what He will do next. I know of three things God is directing us to be part of for 2008 and with a lot of prayer and cooperation, God will use these three things to make us better and to engage the lostness around us.

Number one: The Small Group Experience. My goal is for every member to be actively involved in a small group. Your group can be Sunday school, home Bible study, or a men's/women's accountability group but you need to connect to God and one-another via a small group.

Number two: Leadership training. Every member is a potential leader and I will strive to bring out your potential this year. We have currently established a School of Leadership with Bible studies and training materials designed for home study at your own pace. Are you ready to allow God to reveal your leadership abilities?

Number three: The new building. We are setting the stage for the construction to begin as we relocate our primary facilities. The journey to this point has been long but it has been rewarding. We have seen more people rise to the challenge of embracing the next step of getting the ball rolling. Hard work! Extra effort! Financial responsibility! The list is almost endless of what we need to accomplish prior to the building beginning but we are on our way. (By the way, On January 20th during the afternoon worship time we will have a building progress report).

So as we start the New Year let's do so with an open heart and open mind to the work God wants to accomplish. We have done church for so long it is time to start being the church... being the church God desires.

One last thing! On January 9th we will conduct our 1st quarterly business session. At this session we will be discussing and voting on the process and plan for the name change of the church. Do not miss this time of excitement!

I love being your pastor!

Brother Rich

2008-01-03T08:43:00.000-06:00

How to be God’s Friend

Being Courageous in a Cowardly World!

Awareness:

Abram no sooner settled in to his newest tent site when war began to break out. But since Abram was twenty miles on the other side of nowhere, he was not directly affected… or was he. The first part of chapter 14 talks about the kings and the armies who were gathering for war. History tells us that king Chedorlaomer had never been defeated in battle. The nations surrounding Sodom and Gomorrah had been paying tribute to King Ched so they could save their own skin. After twelve years of payment they said enough is enough and they began to rebel. Guess when Abram moved back to Canaan? In year thirteen! Coincidence? Not hardly because this is simply another test of Abrams ability to be a God-follower. Now Abram could have stayed at home and ignored the chaos to the East. For the most part he tried until his own family got caught in the crossfire. Now Abram is forced to make a choice and choosing correctly means he must summon every ounce of courage he possibly can. What do we do when we need courage to face difficult circumstances? Let’s learn from Abram.

Answers:

What is the most courageous thing you have ever had to do?

Was it forced upon you or did you enter into the situation knowing it was the right thing to do?

How would you define courage?

Do you feel you are a courageous person?_______ Why or why not? _________________________

What would you like to accomplish if you only had a little more courage?

Read Genesis 14:1-24

Verse 12 gives us the first indication that Lot made a wrong choice. He is now the victim of a war he wants nothing to do with. What caused Lot’s dilemma?
As we learned in our previous lesson, not only did Lot’s choice affect his family, it now caused Abram to have to get involved. Why do you suppose Abram risked all to save Lot and his family?
What do you think gave Abram the courage he needed to take on the toughest king around?

Application:

This chapter reveals at least four characteristics of courageous people modeled by Abram. Courage isn’t always the same as bravery. Courage is knowing what to do and when to do it and doing it for the right reasons. If you struggle with courage at times, try to adopt these four characteristics into your daily life.

Wisdom

Abram was wise. He applied his wisdom in this difficult situation. Reread the chapter and see if you can identify any of Abram’s wise choices.
1. He already established allies
2. Divide and conquer
3. Cover of darkness
4. Abram blessed the Godly king and had nothing to do with the ungodly.
Bottom-line. If God made a promise to Abram, do you think Abram relied upon that promise as he rallied for the attack?
Based upon your response, what did Abram need to do to ensure victory?

Unselfishness

Another of Abram’s traits was his unselfishness and it is clear by reading through chapters 12-14. However, why do you suppose Abram took nothing from the king of Sodom (14:21-24)

Pure Motives

Abram was a man who was motivated by living pure and righteous before God. Defeating the most powerful ruler on earth allowed Abram to do and get anything he wanted. What would a person who was unrighteous have done in his situation?
What did Abram do (vss. 18-20)?

Controlled Power

Abram could have become the world-ruler. He could have used his power for his own glory. Why do you think Abram chose to remain in the will of God?
One thing we must remember is the promise of God. Even though Abram did great things, he still stayed loyal to God’s promise. Do you believe this was Abram’s main factor for motivation?_________ Why or why not?

Of the four qualities of a courageous Christians, rate yourself in the order that best describes your own strengths. One is greatest strength through four being weakest.

______ Wisdom

______ Unselfishness

______ Pure Motives

______ Controls Power

Crosspoint Small Group Studies Richard Clouse OT 1-4Coach

Daily Bible Reading

2008-01-02T11:02:00.000-06:00

I read Genesis 11 today and started wondering about verses 6-9.

6 The Lord said, “If, as one people all having the same language, they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them. 7 Come, let Us go down there and confuse their language so that they will not understand one another’s speech.” 8 So the Lord scattered them from there over the face of the whole earth, and they stopped building the city. 9 Therefore its name is called Babylon, for there the Lord confused the language of the whole earth, and from there the Lord scattered them over the face of the whole earth.
Gen 11:6-9 (HCSB)

At first glance verse 6 appears to be somewhat benign but as I read it I asked myself, "Is this possible still today?" In a spiritual sense I wonder what would happen if the church began to "speak one language"? Not English or Chinese, or Swahili; but a common language of peace and mercy and love for ourselves, and for the lost world around us. Would it be possible for the church to accomplish "whatever we plan to do" just because we all started talking the same way?
As a pastor, I will do my best to ensure our church starts talking the same language. You may ask, "What language is that?" My initial response would be, "The language of reconciliation!" Whatever it takes to mend relationships has to be God-honoring. So if you are struggling in a relationship, what do you need to say in order to get it right. Or if you are aware of someone who does not have a relationship with God, what can you say to begin the healing process?
I believe we all have a role to play in properly communicating the love of God revealed through relationships. I also believe that if the church would start speaking the same language (that is the right-same language) then we will start doing whatever we plan to accomplish. Let's just make sure we plan to do what God desires!

Try it and see if it doesn't work for you.

Starting 2008 with a focus!

2007-12-30T08:39:00.000-06:00

Greetings everyone and welcome to our newest addition to Crosspoint ministries. We are going to use this blog as a way to stay connected with one another and share our experiences as we journey together. Visit as often as you like and make the effort to learn from discussion as well as share what God may be doing in your life. The purpose of this blog is simple.
1. I will use it as a way to communicate to small group leaders to provide encouragement and to keep them responsible to their group and ministry.
2. I will discuss "hot-topics" as I hear about them and feel the need to address them Biblically.
3. The blog will also allow us to easily archive discussions, threads, and track our leadership development process.

So, let's get started by joining in and letting all who read know what God is currently doing in our lives!

Brother Rich