Is burning the Koran a hate crime?

This was the question asked recently in national media outlets in response to a Gainsville, Florida pastor's plan to burn the Koran on 9/11.

Simple - we live in America and if you can burn the US flag in protest you can certainly burn a book. It is exactly the same! Some hold the US flag to be sacred - some hate what it is only a symbol of. Some hold the koran to be sacred - some hate what it is a symbol of. So NO it is not a crime in any sense of the word.

Burning a Koran may not be a crime, but it may be stupid. The backlash could be worse than even the media or military predicts. Certainly "peaceful" Muslims around the world will protest and people will most likely die. They will burn US flags and chant "Death to Satan America"! But, that is not what worries me most.

Certainly this book burning cannot be compared in scope to the Night of Broken Glass, but the incremental loss of freedom our does hearken back to 1930s Germany. Gainsville police plan to step up a road block and check the ID of everyone who attends the Koran burning. Is no one outraged that the city of Gainsville plans to "set up a road block" and "check the license" of people who go to the event? Who is going to keep the list and what are they planning to do with it? What is happening to our freedom?

You may laugh now, but do not be surprised if one day you have a visit from the "Religious" division of the FBI, or an entirely new federal agency established to "promote tolerance" and fight against the "defamation of religion".

PREDICTION -- The US Congress will debate a bill on the Defamation of Religion that will seek to make it a "hate crime" to "defame" anyone's religion, religious symbols, sacred sites or founders.

I wish the pastor would just cancel the burning, but the firestorm has already started. He did not start the fire, it has always been burning.

Lastly, speaking of politics since when did our political leaders become so well versed in religion? Since when do our political leaders have the right to tell us what to believe and how to practice our faith?

Hillary Clinton has apparently become well versed in Islam and stands in the place of prophet as she make proclamation after proclamation. She condemned Jones' plan at a dinner Tuesday in observance of Iftar, the breaking of the daily fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. "I am heartened by the clear, unequivocal condemnation of this disrespectful, disgraceful act that has come from American religious leaders of all faiths," she said. She has proclaimed that Islam is a religion of peace and that "terrorism has no religion".

Repeatedly we are told that we are "not in a religious war". This is a war against "terrorism". You know the thing that has "no religion". Am I stupid or something? As the Islamic terrorists blow themselves up they chant religious slogans, mobs chant "Death to Infidels", spontaneous parties broke out in the Islamic world to celebrate the Islamic victory on 9/11 and I could go on and on. But, it isn't religion?

The fact is that all leaders of all faiths have not condemned the Koran burning, and from the comments posted on many websites it seems that many (if not a majority of) Americans agree that Pastor Jones has every right to burn whatever book he wants to burn. Furthermore many Americans still believe that you can believe whatever you want to believe, and say whatever you want to say about religion. It is based on something we call the US Constitution.

What ever happened to the separation of Church and State?

www.righttobelieve.org

Words - are they important?

I am totally understanding the need to be careful in our language
with prospects, and even the general public. I do not agree with lying
about our intentions to evangelize, or deception to gain access to "closed areas".
However, I can see the wisdom of prudent language when living or
ministering in a hostile land.

Recently I was asked to teach a seminar to converted Muslims. I was instructed to not call Jesus the "Son of God" or to mention "Trinity". Furthermore I was told to call God "Allah" and use "Al Masheia" rather than "Jesus".

When we are dealing with converted Muslims I think it would be irresponsible
not to teach the whole counsel of Scripture and introduce our new brothers
to good theology. I know that Muslims have a problem with calling Jesus
the Son of God because they know it means that He is literally God's Son
and therefore divine. But, that is the point.

Some years ago I had a bad experience with the IMB's "expert" on Muslim
evangelization. He said that Muslim, Jews and Christians all worship the
same god. I asked, "But, doesn't Jesus say, 'I am the Way, the Truth and
the Life... no man comes to the Father except by me.'"? The teacher
rebuked me and said that I was only interested in arguing semantics. I
responded that I was not speaking of semantics at all, but the very words
of God. He had said that Jews and Muslims worship the God I worship, but they do not
know Jesus. SO, in what way can they come to the Father? How can they
worship a God that can only be approached through Christ Jesus? It was an argument over words, primarily the Word of God.

Recently I had a conversation with a Jehovah's Witness. In the past they
would have never said, "Jesus is LORD." However, they have recently
started saying, "Jesus is lord." Notice the difference? "LORD" =
God, Jehovah, the Word incarnate. "lord" = master, landowner, knight. When I
say "LORD" I proclaim that Jesus is God. When a JW says "lord" he is
saying "mister." Very subtle, and very dangerous. So it isn't just words I am
concerned about it is their meaning.

Allah is an Arabic word for the god of Mohammed. After thinking about it I might could use the term "allah" to refer to God, but not Allah. I think I would be compelled to clarify each time I said allah "notice the small 'a'." Or maybe "allah - I mean the triune God of the Universe". It would be difficult, but I think I could find some way to accommodate on this point.

Many languages have a word for god and another for God. I have heard Muslims in America use "God" when speaking of Allah.

Really this whole issue for me is resolved in the Trinity. The Nicene and
Apostle's creeds predate Islam by several hundred years, and I would think
that a converted Muslim would readily agree with these historically
orthodox statements. In fact, for several hundred years you would not be
considered Christian, nor be baptized if you did not profess a Trinitarian
creed. Christ's divinity is almost impossible to discuss without a
discussion of the Trinity.

If former Muslims had sound teaching in this area I think it
would give them a foundation that would be unshakable. Someone recently implied that the Trinity is too advanced for new believers, but I
would argue that a child could understand - indeed we must have the faith
of a child to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. Maybe they would not be
able to explain, but I am confident that the Spirit (if indeed they have
the Spirit of Christ) would bear witness and they would shout "glory to
God" as the beauty of God's triune nature is proclaimed to them.

Often we make the mistake of not communicating deeper truth with new
converts. Somehow we think that a lack of formal education might mean
that they are too ignorant to grasp complex concepts. We think that
evangelism is too important to waste time on theology. However, we see
many examples in Scripture of men preparing for years (some for decades)
learning about God before serving Him.

Stephen Kennedy, Mission Coordinator for IOI, had a beautiful experience with a new evangelist. He came from the countryside and was very poorly educated. When he was joining IOI he had to sign a form that states that he agrees with the Apostle's
Creed. He did not know what it was, so Stephen read it to him. When he
heard what the creed contained he began to say, "Yes! Yes! Praise God!"
It was wonderful to see that the truth of this creed was readily accepted
by this dear brother. He was encouraged to find that this creed predated
his personal experience by over 1,700 years.

To contrast I heard a song tonight on Christian radio. The lyrics said
something like, "It isn't important that I understand some creed, or even
what I believe... I want to feel like I am falling in love." So, are we
saying that it does not really matter what we believe about God as long as
it feels right? Call Him Allah, or Baal, or Bob - Trinity, not trinity -
Jesus, Mohammed, Buddha - don't all roads lead to the same destination? -
words don't matter as long as it feels right, promotes peace and we keep
the numbers coming.

I cannot state emphatically enough how central the Trinity is to everything I might teach. I mean my name is PATRICK (as in Saint Patrick the Trinitarian theologian that won Ireland for Christ - and to this day symbols for the Trinity are plastered
everywhere in Ireland including on beer bottles) for goodness sakes!

Should I get a tattoo?

I would like to begin by saying that I do not intend to offend, pass judgement or condemn anyone. My purpose is simply to look at the issue of Christians trying to decide on the issue of getting tattoos, and to help young believers think through the issues.

I have read a lot of opinion on the issue and the debates about Levitical law. Both sides seem to make many good arguments, but there is apparently no consensus on the Old Testament Biblical prohibition. Generally most people end up saying something like, "Christians are not 'under' the law..." and the response is generally, "well then is murder still wrong?" These type of arguments don't really get to the heart of the matter.

Indeed it is the heart where Christ's work is done and God's concern for the individual seems to be focused. The New Testament teaching on circumcision is clearly about God's concern for our heart. The Apostles agreed that Gentile believers be prohibited from eating blood and sexual immorality (both of which are Levitical laws, btw), and that Gentiles not be burdened with the extent of ceremonial law. The heart is God's concern, and a transformed heart will change behavior.

But, does the New Testament have anything to say about tattoos? The Apostle Paul goes to great lengths to command Gentile (and Jewish) believers that they should do everything within their power not to live "as the pagans do". Any behavior or meal that is associated with pagan behavior should be avoided. Christians should be know by the "Banner of Love". We should be "marked" with love. In other words, Pagans display their gods in carvings of stone, wood and skins -- Christians display our God through deeds of love and concern for our brothers. We should be known for our love.

This led me to investigate WHY many young Christians want tattoos. Obviously there are many reasons. One of the main reasons I hear is, "To witness Christ to others" or "so everyone will know I am a Christian". Kind of the Evangelical trump card - EVANGELISM.

One blogger said of his reasons for getting a tattoo, "To me it was the sense of taking control and doing what I want regardless of what anybody said or thought... Really what I think is it all boils down to is either you have the nerve to have ink carved into your body for life... That is why all of us with tattoos have a sense of brotherhood. Because each one of us knows the pain we went through for something we love (tattooing)."

So there we have it. "Taking control and doing what I want to do regardless of what anybody said or thought." As Christians we are to be intensely concerned with what others think, especially in regards to the perception of sinful behavior (real or imagined). Also, we are to be controlled by the Holy Spirit, not our fleshly desires.

While the Old Testament prohibition against tattoos might be up for debate I think it is clear that our society still views tattoos as "rebellious" and "to Hell with your opinion of me". A new term has evolved called "tattoo lifestyle" with magazines focusing on this evolving people group. (BTW, many Internet filters will block 'Tattoo Lifestyle' sights as "R rated"). I wonder how long it will be until people begin saying, concerning their desire to be tattooed, "I was born this way."

In conclusion I think the real issue concerns your heart. Why do you want a tattoo? Are you at all concerned about offending people for the sake of your freedom? Do you seriously want to do what pleases God, or what pleases you?

If you are truly concerned about lost souls or being identified with Christ then I would suggest a little soul searching. Is a tattoo glorifying to God? Will it offend others around you? Will it cause others to stumble?

The Apostle Paul put it this way, "So whatever you eat, drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God -- even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good, but the good of many, so that they may be saved." (I Corinthians 10:31-33)

A Mission to Share

photo by Aaron Hardin
story by Tracie Simer
The Jackson Sun Friday, September 25, 2009

More than 12 years ago, Patrick Beard and his wife, Lana, moved to Ethiopia to become missionaries. Their dreams were ended when they had to return to the United States because she had a complicated pregnancy.

"I came home sick and beaten," he said. "I just knew our missions career was over."

However, he soon had a vision to help native missionaries and pastors like the ones he met in Ethiopia. That vision became Indigenous Outreach International, which celebrated 10 years of ministry Thursday night at Union University.

The ministry now supports 38 missionaries in Ethiopia, two in Brazil and one in Germany. The organization also provides a child care service to meet the needs of 100 poverty-stricken children in Ethiopia, Beard said.

After six weeks, the ministry was supporting seven missionaries for about $250 a month, Beard said.

"Indigenous Outreach International was born in suffering, carried out in simplicity and grounded in ancient roots," he said. "It's simple, really - we saw brothers in need, and we had compassion. We're simply doing what the apostle Paul did when he helped out young missionaries and churches."

Steven Kennedy, missions coordinator for the ministry, said the celebration was a way for people to learn more about what the ministry does and hear about its progress.

"We wanted to make the Jackson area aware of what this ministry is doing," he said. "Scripture says that good news from distant lands brings joy to the heart. We want to encourage (people) that God is working around the world and using people in Jackson to help around the world."

Beard shared the stories of a few missionaries who receive support and who have started their own ministries. Future projects include opening a cafe in Ethiopia to help raise funds and creating training centers for missionaries there, Beard said.

"God has done some amazing things," he said. "I hope we can continue to help others in need."

Kennedy said that aside from financial support, Indigenous Outreach International also offers technical, educational and prayer support.

Visit www.jacksonsun.com and share your thoughts.

- Tracie Simer, 731-425-9629

THANK YOU TRACIE, AARON and the JACKSON SUN!!!

Walking the line

It is so hard to walk a line that leads down the middle of the road. Walton Padelford says, "The only thing you find in the middle of the road is a dead skunk with yellow paint across its back."

IOI was recently refused an audience with a missions committee because we are "too inclusive" and therefore not "orthodox". The funny thing is that in this democratic church I was never allowed to speak to the committee, nor was I ever asked one question. The conclusion was based solely on the fact that we work with so many denominations in Ethiopia, and our support comes from so many different churches in the USA.

The fact is IOI is an orthodox Christian missionary organization. As far as our Statement of Faith we site the Apostle’s and Nicene Creed, and believe the Bible to be inspired of God without error in the original manuscripts. Furthermore the ministers supported through IOI should preach the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ clearly as explained in scriptures such as I Corinthians 15:1-6 and be expecting the physical bodily return of the Lord Jesus Christ. This is about as orthodox a statement as one could possibly make.

The real issue it seems is not theology rather it is methodology. We are not charismatic enough for the Charismatic, we are too inclusive for the Cessationists. It is not the issue of revelation that is a problem (IOI holds to the classical Protestant view that there is no "new" revelation about God - Sola Scriptura, while at the same time giving honor to tradition when it complies with Scripture), rather it is speaking in tongues that plagues us as the unity breaker.

To be honest, most of what I see that is called a "work of God" seems to be nothing more than flesh on parade. Yet, I cannot deny that God still does miracles and there are many gifts that God gives. Scripture is clear that we are not to forbid speaking in tongues, furthermore Scripture is clear in how tongues are (or not) to be used publicly. We teach Biblical exercise of all the gifts to the glory of God and the edification of the Church. If the Church is not edified then cease.

Rather than promotion of a denominational flavor IOI is committed to the teaching of sound doctrine and sound methodology according to Scripture. It may not be possible to walk this line, but our law is the Law of Love. We see our brothers and sisters in need and we are striving to have compassion them. We seek to aid them financially and practically, as well as theologically and methodologically.

May God grant us His grace as we seek to fulfill this labor of love in unity of the Holy Spirit.

Christian Beggars

A lady selling vegetables on the streets of Addis Abeba.

I have never seen the righteous forsaken, nor God's seed begging for bread.

My office is at the church and we often have beggars come by seeking cash or a hotel room. Most of the time they tell me that they are Christian, just had some "bad luck".

When I probe deeper I find that these "Christians" don't actually belong to a church, and don't actually know other Christians that they could give me as a reference. So, what makes someone think they are Christian if they have NO fellowship. I am not saying you have to be listed on the roles of some organization, but I do believe you should have some contact with another Christian if you are in the Body of Christ.

For those who have a somewhat credible profession I have found that the "beggar" leaves my office as one who already had the answer in his hand, he just needed someone to help him see it. That is the beauty of life together. We have all things pertaining to life and godliness, we just forget, or can't see it.

Rebellion against God and pride are the main causes of begging that I have witnessed in America. Now, don't think I am saying this means we have no obligation to help, but it does make a difference in what type help we give.

When a man asks for bread we simply give him bread in the name of Jesus. No obligations, no expectation. We simply obey Jesus. However, when we are approached by a professed Christian that is begging we certainly owe this confessed brother a bit more than a simple meal -- we are after all our brother's keeper. For a Christian to be reduced to begging is a shame on the Church. For a Christian to be reduced to begging it is a shame for him. For a Christian to beg it is a reproach on Christ, and an accusation against God for not providing what He promised His children in food and clothing.

In the Old Testament we find a believer by the name of Job. He lost everything, but not through rebellion or disobedience. He was reduced to ashes. Yet, the only begging Job did was to beg of God for an answer. Apparently the believers who surrounded Job, although they judged him wrongly and gave horrible advice, apparently care for him physically. We see clearly that Job's friends sat with him and tried to aid him as best they could.

So, here we have it. The most "down on his luck" man in history, yet he continues to believe and God continues to care for him through his weak believing friends.

While the world is full of poor Christians there should be NO Christian beggars.

As I have traveled through out Ethiopia I have met many desperately poor Christians, but I have yet to see them utterly forsaken or reduced to begging. The churches are full of people who are poor, but they care for each other in ways that shame us in America. I have witnessed poverty stricken Christians in Ethiopia share their dirt floor with even poorer Christians.

The next time someone begs of you on the basis of being a Christian brother I encourage you to question this brother. Don't simply tell him to be "warm and filled", but take a moment to find out why he does not attend worship or have fellowship with anyone who can share in his sufferings. You may find a lair and a thief, but you may find a brother that needs a prophetic word to go home and be reconciled.

When we view the Christian beggar as our brother then we see that God has given us an opportunity to share in the love of God in the care of His children. We can "get in on what God is doing" by giving to the poor and having mercy on those who least "deserve it".

The Mission of Compassion

"If you see your brother in need and have not compassion - the love of God does not live in you." (I John 3:17)

From what I understand there are Christians who are persecuted every day in this world. I personally know hundreds of believers in Ethiopia alone who need help. How is it that Christians in the most prosperous nation in the world and the richest congregations turn a blind eye to our suffering brethren? There should be a multitude of ministries that seek to help poor, imprisoned and naked Christians.

It often seems that if a mission is interested in the poor it is only to draw them in to their programs so that they can count heads. I don't doubt the sincerity of these organizations I only doubt their gospel and its mission. Feeding the poor becomes a "method of evangelizing" all the while we expect believers to "pull themselves up by their boot straps." It is wicked. For some it would seem to be better to stay a "seeker" and take advantage of "christian charity" rather than become a believer left to fend for yourself.

The good news is that many of these missions are actually preaching the death, burial and Resurrection of Jesus the Christ. I have witnessed churches who explode in numbers and zeal when they are first planted, and I see many who's lives are changed indeed. The problem is that in the years to come their zeal grows cold and soon they become much like the churches that planted them concerned with growing their programs rather than meeting the needs of those around them.

Conversely there are missions who have lost the Truth and have become nothing more than social aid agencies that help salve the conscience of wealth Westerners by feeding multitudes of poor. There are no requirements for aid or belonging, no Gospel message. Just "pure" charity with no strings attached.

What I am trying to say is that both of these views are extreme, and neither is truly bringing God's Kingdom to this earth.

I am growing increasingly confident that missions is something that must be done in community. I believe that Christ's Kingdom is being established on this planet, that His will is being done on Earth as it is in Heaven. This is happening as more and more congregations begin to truly care for each other and become known for their love rather than their buildings or programs. As believers are encouraged to work out their salvation through the practice of God given gifts the world sees the Light and tastes the Salt.

Who in America has not heard that "Jesus died for your sins"? But, how many in America see the Body of Christ (the Church) loving God by loving each other?

How many have heard the Gospel which is costly? How many have heard that it will cost them everything to follow Christ? The Gospel has become an event rather than total life transformation.

All too often our gospel is offensive, not because of Christ, but because it lacks Christ. Jesus died for you. Say this prayer, go to church, give your tithe (of course spend the rest on yourself), obey God and you will prosper! God just wants you to stop doing bad things. The only thing God requires is that you receive His free gift that He offers. "All you have to do is accept." -- It is a lie!

Jesus not only died for you He rose from the dead in a real body! He demands that we believe. He commands us to repent (a constant adjustment of our thoughts to conform with the will of God rather than doing what we want). What God requires is obedience!

The book of James (which many would remove from Scripture) states plainly that faith without works is dead. First John states clearly that we must "lay down our lives for the brethren". Jude warns of those who feasted with believers, yet only wanted gain for themselves. Acts tells of those who wanted to follow Christ in a effort to gain magical powers or miracles, only to find themselves being cut off. Colossians warns about false religion that is worked out in ascetic harshness, rather than overflowing love for the Church that comes from a relationship with the Triune God. Paul greeting the Thessalonians, who not only speak the Gospel, but their "faith goes out before them" -- even so in chapter 4 he says, "you have been taught by God to love one another." In Timothy we see command after command about humility and submission because of the great love of God -- the good "fight" is one of love, faith godliness, gentleness -- and a strict command from God for wealthy Christians to be "rich in good deeds, liberal in giving." These are not options they are commands!

Nowhere in Scripture are we commanded to build big buildings, provide sporting events or any of the plethora of activities that are associated with "church" (not that there is anything inherently wrong with these things). However, we are commanded repeatedly to be generous to poor believers. It is tragic that aiding believers is so low a priority that it is not even on the budget of many congregations.

(Not suggesting that we aid laziness or that we enable people to be leaches on the Church -- see following posts).

There simply is no way around it -- we will be judged according to our deeds! Without faith in Christ we are lost, and without works we have no faith. Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, "Only those who believe can obey, and only those who obey can believe."

It is not our message or our words that we are known by, it is our fruit. Our fruit should be love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. As unbelievers see the fruit they are amazed, as they hear the Gospel they are offended, and as God gives faith they are saved. Those who were outside are inside and become part of the Body of God's great love.

The Word of God

Many in the States would say that the Bible is the Word of God. Just one example of this belief about the Bible comes from a website of a Baptist fellowship.

"1. By "The Holy Bible" we mean that collection of sixty-six books, from Genesis to Revelation, which, as originally written does not only contain and convey the Word of God, but IS the very Word of God."

This organization is not alone in a statement like this -- it is very common among independent and fundamental Christians in America. In essence what they have accidental done with their words is to elevate the Bible to Deity - "The Bible IS the very Word of God."

One site I found (I believe it was God Tube.com) says, "The Bible is the living Word of God."

Now to be fair I do not believe that they actually mean what they say. I think what they are trying to say is that the Bible is more than a book, it is a perfect revelation of God to man in written form, and faithful for doctrine, etc. The scriptures are relevant to our lives today and God speaks through the pages into our lives. In other words they aren't liberals. The problem is that is not what they say exactly.

It is not only a belief among Baptist, but this belief can also be found among denominations such as the conservative Presbyterians. One Presbyterian pastor actual told me that the Bible is the Perfect which was to be revealed, and after its' coming would do away with knowledge, tongues, etc. Again, in essence this minister was saying (although I don't believe he means it this way) that the Bible is the second coming of Jesus. The Bible is the Word (God) incarnate (in flesh).

Now I want to be very clear that I do believe the Bible is the written record of God's words to us. The Bible is useful for doctrine, and all our beliefs and practice should be weighed against the whole counsel of scripture. However, Jesus is the Word of God that is revealed in the Bible. Jesus is the Sword of God that divides bone from marrow, and judges the hearts of man!

To say that the Bible IS the Word of God is like saying that the badge IS the policeman. Certainly the badge reveals to us that the person holding it is a policeman. The badge may tell us where the policeman comes from. It may tell us the limits of his authority (ie. federal or local). There are certain things implied for one who holds a badge, and certain things expected. The badge bears a certain amount of authority (a symbol that actually does/bears something). But, the badge is not the living policeman, nor is the badge the authority that it represents. The badge is only a symbol that communicates a great reality.

What fundamentalists are trying to do is to say that they believe the Bible is the final authority on every subject. They want you to know that they believe the Bible from "Genesis to Maps". They want you to know that they are REAL Christians. They want to convey that they try to live a holy life and obey the commands of God. They want you to know that they do not believe that God is still revealing information about Himself. Most of all they want you to know that they are not charismatic pentecostal and that there is not going to be any new prophets who make new revelations about God or His plan for mankind.

The problem is that most fundamentalist know very little of the Bible. There are many good Baptists who have memorized a plethora of proof texts and can argue them against the barrage of the best trained Jehovah's Witness proof texts. But, when it comes to a good understanding of the whole counsel of Scripture, or finding Christ revealed in the Old Testament, or even an elementary understanding of Church history the average fundamental evangelical Christian will have as poor an understanding of these things as the average Christian cultist.

An example of this poor understanding would be the belief that Jews are blessed and Arabs are cursed. This is a strong belief among fundamental evangelicals in America, and it is not found in Scripture. In fact the we find that God blessed Ishmael. We also see throughout the New Testament that "all of Israel is not Israel", and that Paul even desired the salvation of his fellow Jews so much that he was willing to die in their place -- however, it is "by faith that we (or anyone Jew or Gentile) are saved."

This same phenomenon is happening to the Gospel. Some ministers say that "it is all about the Gospel." In some sermons you might hear the word "Gospel" a dozen times, but you never actually hear the Gospel -- the death, burial and bodily Resurrection of the incarnate Word of God. In deed if you ask the average evangelical the question, "What is the Gospel?" You will get a strange variety of answers that includes, "The Bible. The Good News. It has to do with Jesus." Now, when you point them to I Corinthians 15:1-5 they will say, "Yeah, right the death, burial and Resurrection of Jesus."

If you watch much Christian television in America you will hear a lot about money, how to have a successful life, how God wants to bless you, the Crucifixion, the Gospel (although few explain what they are talking about with that phrase) and our need to pray the Sinner's Prayer. What you will not hear much of is public reading of Scripture (I don't think I have ever heard an entire chapter read on Christian radio or TV, much less an entire book of Scripture).

I believe we are perishing for lack of knowledge. Although we firmly believe the Bible is the word of God, we don't know it. Although we believe the Gospel, we cannot articulate it. Although we believe the worship of God is our most important duty, we cannot really tell you what it means to worship God. We have protested the Catholic system and all her creeds, only to replace them with inferior copies. At least the Nicene Creed does not elevate the Bible to being the fourth person of the Trinity, and the ancient creeds speak more of hope of the bodily Resurrection than some kind of secret evaporation of the faithful. There is no doubt that the Church in America is already left behind, we have exchanged our inheritance for a bowl of porridge. Rather than using the Bible to know about God we have practically elevated it to a god, and use it to divide and conquer.

Jesus says, "If any will come after me let them take up their cross and follow me." "You must eat my body and drink my blood."

In America we come to a table of empty calories - cute sayings, proof texts, guilt, prosperity, "Jesus will fix all your problems." No wonder so many leave the table hungry!

This is only partly the reason for why you see so many young people in America who are hungry for the ancient things of our faith. The modern methods depend of theological maxims and meeting of perceived needs. All the while what we desire is to know and be known by God. We desire the Man of salvation, not the plan of salvation. We want to see and know that He is God. Truly it is by hearing that we receive faith, but we must hear Christ not just proof texts. The Bible reveals Christ, and to quote a common phrase among fundamentalists, "It (salvation) is a relationship." As we hear about Christ revealed in Scripture and walk with Him in the community of His Bride (the Church) we should be moved to obedience to Him. If He is God then what does that mean to me, and how should I then live?

It was in the secret meetings in homes, the reading of books of Scripture, the breaking of bread and the giving of life that the early Church was formed and conformed to the image of Christ. It was their life and death together. It is the same today -- we long to be in community, we want to know Christ now in flesh and blood. We long to worship God in spirit and truth, not simply meet once a week for a presentation of a "worship experience." The ancient traditions involve our bodies - we sing, we pray, we stand, we listen, we smell, we eat, we drink, we kneel, we bow, we hold out our hands, we repeat, and then we go back out into the world and live a life of worship.

People Groups or People?

I am evangelical, but I think the emphesis on "church planting movements" and "people groups" focus is fairly anti-Christ. The IMB has a very short-sighted approach to missions that is driven by bad theology (or more precisely bad eschatology - ie. Jesus can't come back until the last people group has been "reached").

In my opinion the focus on people groups rather than people has been a detrimental approach that has caused us to look at the Church in America as a "resource" and the people in other countries as a "product". We don't have time to focus on an individual and his needs -- we are trying to open the door for Jesus to return. We have a "heart for the Oromo people", but we don't actually care about the well being of Tesguy and his family. I was actually told once in a IMB training session, "We can't waste time hunting birds -- we want the elephant."

The focus on evangelism rather than Christ has produced an emasculated Gospel that has reduced a holy God to a pathetic creator who has lost control and is now begging people to convert. Discipleship has been reduced to "evangelism" for the sake of more evangelism. Christ's demands on us have been reduced to "just receive the free gift."

No doubt some good work is being done by the IMB. There are missionaries, many who are known as disobedient, who are doing good works. But, as you can tell, I have very little impathy with their denominational approach and strategy. I hate secret agent missions (lying and decet to tell the "truth"), the "culturally sensitive gospel" (removing Christ - the stumbling block), the "western gospel" (Jesus needs you - you need to be like us - just believe and God will fix all your problems), and any other gospel than Christ crucified.

Christ has commanded us to repent, believe, and to take up our cross and follow Him. Many American mission agencies seem to have forgotten that the free grace we preach has come, and continues to come, at a very high price.

Be Generous

Apparently my last post stirred a bit of an angry response from "Anonymous". Anonymous was basically saying that I was promoting greed when Christ promotes generosity.

Part of the problem has to do with the fact that I am too wordy I suppose, but I never meant to imply that Christians should not be generous. On the contrary I think Christians should be the most generous people in the world. My point was that simply giving a homeless guy $20 may not be generous, but rather could be the same as saying, "Be warm and be filled -- and go away."

Last night I dealt with a homeless man and I actually offered total life change. Our church is willing to be extended on this man's behalf to radically change his state from being a beggar to being a giver. I told "Bob" that he could go from living in his car to having a home and offering room and board to homeless people like himself. "Instead of being a taker Bob you could be a giver." The condition was that he be willing to submit to Christ in every aspect of his life and come under the authority of the Church. If he would just be willing to come among us, be of us and be quiet. He could really be part of a body.

Actually what Bob wanted was a hotel room because it was too cold to sleep in his car.

We do not have hotel rooms. We did offer a warm bed and meal at a local shelter.

But, Bob does not stay in shelters. Bob does not want community. Bob wants what Bob wants, Bob's way.

Give drinks of water. Feed the hungry. Give shelter to the homeless. But, without true love it is worthless! We do not send people away hungry, but we must also not make the Bride of Christ a pimp pushing a prostituted Gospel.

It is high time to put to an end cheap grace. The grace of God is very costly. Far more than simple generosity we extend ourselves beyond inconvenience and the soothing of a guilty conscience. We are Christ's Body on earth and we must continue the work of the Gospel.

The Gospel commands more than easy belief and continuance in a life of rebellion, Christ demands our total submission and obedience to Him. To be in Christ we must be in His Church. To love Christ we must love His Bride.

Jesus said, "Eat my Body and drink my Blood." Many departed that day.

Giving

Notice the cell phone? Can't afford a Laundromat, but he has unlimited text messaging?

The leaves have fallen, so it is time to blog again. Chris has some awesome thoughts (to put it mildly) concerning worship on St Ambrose, Craig continues to explore art that glorifies God on StCelebart and the blog master Brian (aka Brain) makes me belly laugh on Emasculating Nickname. I am afraid that my blog continues to be the soapbox of a very opinionated man.

The church has waves of beggars and vagabonds that come and go. I actually found myself getting angry one Sunday at a beggar who endured the worship service in hopes of getting some cash for God knows what. We generally do give to all those who ask, but I am not so sure that giving to vagabonds is a right use of "God's money".

Now before you get all up in arms about my thoughts on the subject you must realize that I work full time in a ministry that exists to extend ourselves on behalf of our poor brothers and sisters in Ethiopia. You could say that my vocation is giving, or "redistribution of wealth." We support Christians in Ethiopia who are working for the Gospel. We support orphans and widows who have no other source of income. We support those who cannot support themselves.

When it comes to able bodied young men on the streets of America -- do we really owe them five bucks just because they have a sign that reads "Will work for food"?

Some young Christians will immediately throw a proof text my way and proclaim that Jesus clearly commands us to give. I agree. Jesus most certainly commands us to give, and even to be generous in giving. The problem is that Scripture also teaches that if a man does not work he should not eat. And there was that strange day when Jesus said to the multitude, "If you are hungry eat my body and drink my blood."

When Jesus perceived that most in the crowd wanted to see a miracle and get their bellies filled He rebuked them and basically chased them away. The Apostles were amazed and more than a bit concerned. Jesus turns to the disciples and asks if they are going to leave as well, and the response was, "You have the words of life, where shall we go?"

Many who knock on the doors of the Church are like those that Jesus chased away. The Church of God does not owe every lazy man his daily bread. But, the Church does have a debt -- we owe it to the wise man and the fool.

In Romans chapter one Paul speaks of the Gospel and the life changing power of Christ. He says that he is a debtor to both those who know the Gospel (to share in their faith) and to those who do not know the Gospel (that they might hear).

Certainly there are those who truly need financial help or a bag of groceries, but God forbid that we send away the needy with only some cash or bread! I fear that all too often young Christians relieve their guilt by giving cash to a beggar, but missing the opportunity to be a prophet. Maybe the beggar needed something more than money. God may send a lazy man to the doors of a church for the sole purpose of having someone speak into the man's life and rebuke his laziness. When a beggar comes to our door God may have sent him to have a radical life changing transformation. As believers we owe it to those who come to the Church looking for help. We owe them the Gospel!

Updates to ioi blog

For those of you interested in the ministry of IOI --
The www.ioiusa.blogspot.com blog is updated monthly. Also, we have a new URL for our website at www.ioiusa.org which I hope is much more user friendly. Check it out when you have an opportunity.

Also, for those interested in our home renovations check out www.universal-design-home.blogspot.com

Dependency

I have copied the article in its entirety and only added a few comments which are in red. I wanted to include the entire article to be fair.

DEPENDENCY ISSUES AND EXTENDING GOD’S KINGDOM
South America Region, International Mission Board, SBC

The concept of dependence is an important and vital part of the Christian life. We are taught in Scripture to be completely and totally dependent on God. Therefore, to foster a dependence on other things, even as they relate to Kingdom Extension, runs contrary to good missiological approaches and sound Scriptural principles. (Strange, no mention of the Church being like a body, which would imply interdependence on each other).

We are called, committed and accountable to go and to make disciples of the nations, even to the uttermost ends of the earth. Thankfully, many Southern Baptists and others have been and continue to be involved in that Kingdom task. The purpose of this position paper is to help avoid practices that are paternalistic (Application of the ideas that follow are not only "paternalistic" they are supremest, ie. "because we are greater...") and those that create dependency because such practices hinder Kingdom growth.

Some Relevant Scripture
We Baptists hold a strong belief that every individual is directly accountable to Almighty God to obey, worship and serve Him and that the Lord directs and empowers each individual to accomplish that which He has purposed. His church leadership is instructed "to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ." (Eph. 4:12&13) (I think it strange to divorce the individual from the "body of Christ," and apply a scripture that clearly is addressing "you all" and interpret the passage to be to the individual. Aren't Baptists supposed to be the ones who believe in the literal translation of Scripture?)

Jesus sent out the disciples to the lost sheep of Israel with authority and strong words of encouragement to preach the gospel, heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, and to drive out demons because they were to freely give of what they had freely received. The disciples were instructed not to take along any gold, or silver, or copper money and no luggage, because "the worker is worth his keep," (obviously meant to apply to the little dark skinned people, but not to SBC missionaries who live in fine homes, drive new SUVs and have servants) (Matt. 10:1-10) which idea is expressed in today’s mission phraseology as "the resources are in the harvest." (ie. "why should we use our money to help the poor?" HOW RIDICULOUS! Can you imagine Jesus saying, "heal thyself" or "I have come that you might find the life that you already have"?) Matthew 10:11-20 indicates that the disciples were not expected to have an altogether easy entrance into their mission world. Instead of ease, they were instructed to expect hardships of rejection, betrayal, arrests and trials (Unlike SBC missionaries to the Middle East who are taught to lie about their presence in the country and do everything possible to avoid any rejection). Jesus sent them out "like sheep among wolves." Jesus also gave similar instructions to the 72 whom he sent out later. (Luke 10:1-12) Later, in Luke 22:35-36, even when Jesus gave further instructions indicating the need for provisions of a money belt, a bag and a sword, these provisions were the simplest ones that allowed the worker to be sent out for ministry.
The Apostle Paul traveled throughout most of the known world of the Roman Empire, working, teaching, writing, preaching, suffering various trials and hardships, and witnessing, with almost no mention made of any financial or material aid for those receiving the witness. He did, of course, collect an offering for the faithful in Jerusalem who were suffering a lack of necessities, probably as a result of persecution. (So admittedly the Apostle Paul collected money for the poor in another country. Just a reminder - that is the thing that this article is preaching against.) Paul even worked to earn his own livelihood when the circumstances indicated. (Acts 18:3) The Apostle Paul in 1st Corinthians 11:16-33 describes in his own words what he suffered in order that others would hear the good news of salvation in Christ.

God was in Christ Jesus reconciling the world to himself, but, even though it was God the Father who was taking the initiative; it was Christ the Son who was required to pay the price of obedience that was set before him by God, the Father. (2 Cor. 5:18-21) (Any theologians have a problem with this statement, or is it just me?)

It is quite evident from the Biblical texts cited, and many others, that some of the principal ingredients for reaching the lost world were personal testimony of faith, sharing the gospel message, challenging the lost to believe, and paying the price of obedience along with some cautions about the role material resources would play. (Oh yes, quite evident in deed. Ahem. Now all you little people without Bible degrees take a seat and get ready for this great exposition).

Missionary Leadership Insight
The following insights were shared by Dr. Jerry Rankin in the September 1997 issue of The Commission magazine, a Southern Baptist International Mission Board publication, and they are echoed by many leaders in missions (who mostly live in really nice homes in America and jobs depend on American money given by American Christians; but are real experts on the sufferings of the developing world).

North Americans often see poverty and economic disparity overseas and, out of a compassionate desire to help, they wish to share of their own abundant resources. However, they are often less than fully aware of the dangers of a valid spiritual ministry (I think that is an interesting phrase, "valid spiritual ministry") degenerating into material assistance (assistance - that 's bad, right? Sounds too much like welfare. Sounds liberal or Communist or something wholly unAmerican), and how creating dependency can be detrimental to the health and growth of Kingdom efforts (Clearly the IMB are not Calvinists - at least we can be thankful for something. I mean we scoff at global warming because Man cannot destroy God's planet, but apparently individual men can harm God's Kingdom).

The International Mission Board is firmly committed to indigenous principles of missions in the work of evangelism and church planting overseas ("yes, yes firmly committed with words, lots of words, and programs, and Veggie Tales - but not money that might hurt somebody). The churches that result must have members who are growing to maturity in Christ, reaching the lost around them with the gospel, and seeing new congregations resulting from their efforts. "It is a mistake to try to accelerate growth by an infusion of financial aid to build churches and support pastors…Well intended financial assistance too often creates dependence and handicaps the initiative and faith essential for spontaneous growth (I don't know -- seems like it works in America. Funny how the Home Mission Board supports pastors, builds buildings, etc. here in the good ole USA, but when it comes to the darkies in Africa...)." When "Americans subsidize the work of churches and pastors on the mission field (Oh, I see the "mission field") potential growth is stalled because of a mind-set that it can‘t be done unless an overseas benefactor provides the funds." In such a case, the local congregation stops assuming responsibility before the Lord for the work and begins to rely more on the human benefactors to take care of them (I suppose that is why we pay our pastors here in America, because we want them to be dependant on us?). "People are deprived of growing in faith, learning to depend on God and discovering that He is sufficient for all their needs."

"Subsidy propagates a Western model of a church that sees a building and a paid pastor as essential rather than encouraging a reproducible biblical model of the church as gathered believers responsible to and for their own leadership and facilities." (Again a statement of "fact" that has no reference in reality. I personally know of churches that have been helped greatly by "western $" and they don't look or act "western". Furthermore, isn't this actually condemning the very churches that support the IMB? Don't all SBC churches in America see a building and a paid pastor as essential?)
Dr. Rankin concludes that the "Explosive growth ….around the world would never have occurred if a pattern of subsidy and dependence had been created. Unfortunately, well-intentioned help on many fields has handicapped long-term potential growth." (Hasn't most of the growth in the past 150 years been subsidized by the West? I don't get it. Has the Church grown or not? And if it has doesn't it disprove what Dr. Rankin is saying?)

Also, Dr. David Garrison has intensely studied church planting movements around the world and concludes that the use of outside resources to construct church buildings and to pay pastors’ salaries actually creates barriers to the realization of a church planting movement, because it saps local initiative. He goes on to state that these actions may produce some impressive short-term results, but they will also produce a long-term dead end. (I sorry I have no idea who this guy is, but I am willing to call him on the carpet here and ask for some statistics. Again we have a great learned man who states a "fact" based on his "intense study" and we are expected to believe him with no verification of what he says. Again, I can show you churches that are thriving and growing, and have actually been encouraged to give more when they learn that churches in America are willing to help them. How I wish there was a missions version of Snopes.com).
In his book, Church Planting Movements: How God Is Redeeming a Lost World, Garrison lists some serious obstacles to the blossoming of a church planting movement; in fact, he designates them as seven deadly sins (Oh, God forbid that we give to the poor! What a sin! -- WOE TO THOSE WHO CALL GOOD EVIL!) which create barriers against a church planting movement. Two of them are especially pertinent for the issue being treated here.

One he names the "The Devil’s Candy." "The Devil’s Candy is deceptive, because it refers to good things that have real value" but they can hinder reaching the lost with the gospel. In the mission setting, it is the use of outside money for paying pastors and church building construction. Garrison writes that when outside (Outside? That would be "para" like "para-church"? Like a mission organization? COME ON! It is ONE Church Dr. Garrison, there is NO "outside"!) funds are used to hire pastors and construct church buildings, there may be some quick results but sustainable growth will not be realized.

A second barrier for a church planting movement is what Garrison calls "Alien Abduction (Who’s in charge here?) He continues, "There are at least three ways that Church Planting Movements can succumb to alien abduction: 1) by forcing new believers to exchange their cultural forms for alien ones, 2) by creating a welfare state (there are those liberals again!) of foreign dependency, and 3) by injecting foreign elements into the life of the church that cannot be locally reproduced."

So, when is it "help that helps" and when is it "help that hurts?" That is the question that requires much prayer, study and application of the admonition of Jesus to the twelve and the seventy when he sent them out. "Be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves." (Matt. 10:16 KJV) How can one be wise in Kingdom service in a mission setting? By praying relevant questions through to constructive answers. (I know lets read I John 3. No, why don't we just pray and ask God to enlighten us.)

The following are some relevant prayer topics for anyone or a group committing to ministry on a mission field and who wishes to wisely invest time and resources.

Are we truly partners in Christ with local believers with commensurate responsibilities in this mission effort? (Well if your the IMB I don't know if you are a partner, but you surely are the boss).
Do our ministry and resources enhance discipleship growth and commitment? (Maybe you could have Dr Garrison do intensive study on the subject?)
Will our ministry result in disciples absolutely committed to reaching others? (Would it be a bad thing if our disciples were "absolutely committed" to worship of God?)
What would be the signs that dependency is being fostered? (Maybe no one having the intestinal fortitude to tell you and all your "resources" to take a hike?)
Who is really making the decisions about ministry here? (Some dude in Richmond, of course.)
Would the ministry continue if the outside, or foreign, resources were suddenly withdrawn? (If it is from God, and He wants it to continue).
Are we seeking the Lord’s leadership in praying alongside our national partners? (While I am sure that it must happen -- of all the mission sponsored prayer meetings I attended while an SBC missionary I can't remember one prayer meeting that involved nationals - that would have been far too risky.)
Do our ministry and resources foster more dependence upon the Lord or more dependence upon us?

Here are some additional questions that can be used volunteers:
Are we fostering a welfare state? (Again that liberal question. Is welfare that evil? My handicapped daughter gets "welfare" and thank God for it! I have no idea how she would get the medical care she needed if it weren't for "welfare". But, I'm white and work so obviously they don't mean me.)
Are we funding something that they can’t fund for themselves? (If they could fund it themselves why would we give money to pay for it??? Are you suggesting that we only give to those who have and not to those who do not have?)
If they can’t fund it themselves, is there a way it can be done that would be affordable to them/within their cultural and economic means?
If they can’t fund it themselves, are we leaving them with a financial burden to maintain it after we’re gone? So many Latino Baptists say they can’t afford to do missions because their funds are tied up in maintaining buildings, campgrounds, seminaries, and other American-spawned institutions. (Oh the poor Latinos who don't have enough good sense to sell their liabilities and turn them into assets.)

Conclusion (I'm tired of stating the obvious - I will leave you to come to your own conclusions).
The South America Region leadership, after study and prayer, has sensed a responsibility to lead missionaries and volunteers to seek ministries that have been proven to facilitate church planting movements and that avoid, as much as possible, the potential for creating dependency.
In light of the information presented in this position paper, missionaries and volunteers serving in the South America Region of the International Mission Board are strongly urged to study and pray through the issue of dependency in missions and what it means for ministry involvement. This is especially important as it relates to the construction of church buildings and subsidy, such as paying salaries of either national pastors or national missionaries, as well as purchasing or providing other material resources that are not available locally for starting churches. Because of the importance of these issues, we also ask for your understanding as we implement a guideline in the region, beginning in 2006, of no longer approving volunteer projects that involve the construction of church buildings, as well as no longer transferring funds through our offices that have as their designation the construction of church buildings, the paying of national pastor’s or national missionary’s salaries, or other financial support that creates dependency.
What are some construction alternatives for those volunteers who desire to do construction and/or provide other material resources, and, at the same time, avoid creating dependency? There are many ways that volunteers can be involved in construction projects that do not create dependency but rather impact lostness among communities and families with whom we are working. Examples of such projects are: Community Projects (School repair and renovation, Handicapped access, Stairs and Sidewalk installation, Clean water projects, Irrigation Systems, Public Bathrooms, Bus Stop Shelters, Playgrounds and Parks, Landscaping Projects) Single Family Dwellings (Painting, Roofing and repair, Cabinet building, Bathroom installation and repairs, Plumbing, Window installation and repairs, Electrical installation and repairs) Human Needs and Disaster Relief Projects. Such projects express the love of God and open doors and hearts to the gospel message.

Bibliography and Notes
Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are from the New International Version of the Bible.
Garrison, David. Church Planting Movements, booklet, also online at www.imb.org/CPM.
Garrison, David. Church Planting Movements: How God Is Redeeming a Lost World. Midlothian, VA: WIGTake Resources, 2004, pages 240-257 especially. See www.churchplantingmovements.com.
International Centre for Excellence in Leadership. Strategic Engagement of Volunteers, pages 76-96. Richmond: International Mission Board, SBC, 2000.
McQuilkin, Robertson. "Avoiding Dependency" in Mission Frontiers magazine, August 1999, p. 38.
Rankin, Jerry. "Help That Hurts" in The Commission magazine, September 1997.

Are you washed in the Blood?

"I saw the filthiness of sin and I also saw the efficacy of the Lord’s precious blood cleansing me and making me white as snow." --Wacthman Nee

There are over 250 references to "blood" in the Bible. Blood plays a significant role in the Christian faith. Animal blood provided a symbol and a true "covering" for sins. But, it is not animal blood that cleanses us or takes away our sins. "For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sins." (Hebrews 10:4)

According to Scripture the Blood of Christ accomplishes many things -- redemption, cleansing, covering, sanctification and more.

In Revelation 7:14 we see that our "robes" are washed in the Blood of the Lamb and made "white as snow." How strange it is to think that blood can make robes white. Yet, it is a spiritual message.

Our works are our "robes," and even the very best of man is all together vanity. Our works are tainted by the flesh and sin. Our righteousness is filthy. But, the Blood of Christ washes us as we participate in His sacrifice. Our hands have His blood on them.

He washes our works and makes them white as snow. He has redeemed not only our souls, but our very existence. He did not simply wash our hearts, He has given us new hearts. He has given us His Spirit to live within us. He has taken a dead thing and given it life. He has made those who only knew darkness and decay to be the light and salt.

By the scheduling of His precious Blood Christ accomplished our salvation. The blood of Christ is an offense to some, and a stumbling block to many. The Blood of Christ is central to the Gospel. For those who believe it is the display and action of the power of God unto salvation. Praise God for the Blood of Christ!

"Woman's hand washed in blood" (Art.com)

Quote of the Weak -- Material Needs

"If we grant the baptized brother the right to the gifts of salvation, but refuse him the gifts necessary to earthly life or knowingly leave him in material need and distress, we are holding up the gifts of salvation to ridicule and behaving as liars."
-Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship


"Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distress, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Corinthians 12:21)

Not all cheese is bad...

The Cheese Sellers, French School (Art.com)

Those who know me know the distaste I have for American style pop-Christian worship. The term I like to use for this modern performance style worship is, "Cheese Whiz."

But, I have come to the conclusion that not all cheese is bad cheese. Real cheese is better than Cheese Whiz.

I was in a church recently that is very much in to the modern worship style. The preacher wears one of those headset mic things, there are too large screens displaying the action, a full band complete with two percussionists, previously video taped announcements -- the whole works. However, I noticed something this time. Instead of my normal sarcasm I found that I actually appreciated the perfection with which the program was being produced. From lighting and video to music and speakers the ques were perfect. The only flub was some jerky movements from a cameraman that apparently lost interest in the speaker.

I suppose my point is that if you are going to go with the modern style at least hire some people who know what they are doing. This church's style does not speak to me at all. But, the perfection with which they pulled it off was admirable.

The thing that I don't like about the modern style is that it removes the congregation even further from the action and definitely makes the people gathered into an audience. I felt like I was watching a show, which I was occasionally invited to participate in. Very little was demanded of me. I could just sit there in my theatre style seating and enjoy the show.

I also noticed something else. The speaker exalted Christ. Even some of the music exalted Christ. It was obvious to me that these people love Jesus.

In the end the difference between cheese and Cheese Whiz is substance. Cheese Whiz may look like cheese, smell like cheese and kind of taste like cheese, but it has no milk in it and very little (if any) nutrition. Real cheese taste better, is more valuable and has nutritional value -- just be careful because too much can cause problems.

Quote of the Weak - God's Word

"It was as if a gentle southerly wind were blowing. It was as if the Sun of righteousness were shining close by, causing sweet smelling spiritual spices to flow. Yes, and now may God send forth His Word and may it make them flow in us."

- Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153)

Saint Bernard of Clairvaux Frenchman Who Established the Monastery at Clairvaux (Art.com)

Substance over Symbol

As I have contemplated symbol lately I feel that I may be in danger of error. I have been so focused on correct symbolism that I have preferred correct symbols over substance.

God made it clear in the Old Testament that symbols are important. People died for misuse of God's given symbols like the Ark of the Covenant, or the offering "strange fire".

I do believe that symbols are important, but symbol without substance is a type of poverty.

The symbols that God gave in the Old Testament were pure, and were not at the privy of men to change. In this age it seems that God tolerates misuse and error to a generous degree. Obviously this is because Christ has come and the symbols of the Old Testament, while only shadows, were fulfilled in Christ. Still, we should take great care with the symbols we offer in this age.

A friend of mine attended a very liturgical wedding recently. The symbolism was perfect. You could not have attended the service without seeing the symbolism of Christ and His Church. Yet, the couple that married was less than godly. The symbols were all in place, but the substance was weak at best. "It was a sham," said my friend.

I suppose if I had to make a choice, I would prefer substance over symbol. But, once again I find myself looking for balance in an imbalanced world. In an ideal situation we would find correct symbols with correct substance. Weddings that correctly present Christ and His Church, and marriages that have a depth of love that the world cannot imitate nor understand.

Christ is the reality of the symbols we handle. They are but a shadow of the Way, the Truth and the Life. He is the substance of our faith and symbols. In our striving for correct symbols let us strive all the more to know Christ Himself. Knowing, loving and worshiping Him are the purposes of the symbols.

The Marriage of Giovanni Arnolfini
by Jan van Eyck (Art.com)

Do Symbols Matter?

I love the scene in Indiana Jones and the last Crusade where the "cup of Christ" is revealed as a plain simple common goblet. While the magic that is attached to the goblet is the fantasy of Hollywood the image of simplicity makes up for it.

In one sense symbols are nothing. Bread is nothing, wine is nothing and water is nothing. These are simple elements of life. However, in the right setting and with the right words these elements are transformed into symbols of something much greater.

A red light in a window can symbolize a house of ill repute. A red light in a traffic signal is a symbol that says "stop", and bears the full weight of the law if it is disobeyed. Both are just red lights. One advertises a message and identifies a place, the other bears authority and commands respect as it stands in the place of the reality.

How we deal with symbols in the church is important. Imagine a traffic light with three green globes, or one with red on the bottom and green on the top. If it matters how lights are handled it certainly matters how we handle symbols in the church.

Using grape flavored drink and yeast bread in communion may not be sinful, but it does hinder the symbol. Showering a baby may be true baptism, but the picture is blurred. An abusive husband may indeed be a husband, but he is a false example of Christ.

I am becoming convinced that the churches that present the purest symbols are the churches that present the truest picture of Christ. I am not advocating finery or pomp. I am advocating simple obedience.

In this Christmas season let us review our symbols and strive for a true presentation of Christ.

Photo from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade

Why some hate the Reformation Movement

What, you don't know?

There is a "movement" among Baptists these days. I think the word movement should indicate that there is a potential error afoot. Most movements seem to unintentionally breed cultish behavior by focusing too much on a particular teaching or passage. Even what may be called "good movements" such as the Great Awakening promoted a pendulum swing in the other direction. Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons and every other Christian cult that I know of was the result of or a reaction to a "movement."

You will notice that I have avoided the word "revival." Revival carries with it too much baggage and the picture of a mad man in a three piece suit pounding a pulpit. Revival also implies a connection with our emotions. So, I believe most people prefer to call what is happening a movement. However, this term is not without its connotations as well.

The charismatic movement has birthed a great number of heretics as the emphasis has been on emotions, feelings, prophesy, manifestations and revelation. Not all charismatics are heretics, mind you. This movement affected Baptists in that many churches shifted to a more emotional worship style and preaching that was pointed at the perceived needs of the congregation (salvation and personal happiness) which is now termed "man-centered preaching." Evangelism focused less on the work of God and more on the "decision" of the man.

Today there is a growing minority among Baptists that are reacting to the emphasis on emotion by appealing to reformation theology. Reformation theology being the theology that resulted (or was recovered) in the reformation movements of the 1500s in Europe. Luther, Calvin and many others had restored the doctrines of the Church Fathers, and they focused heavily on the doctrines of grace, election, predestination and salvation. Today's reformist would claim that they are seeking "God-centered preaching."

Luther was a monk that never felt saved. He tried with all his might to be saved and it was not until he understood that the "just shall live by faith" that he was freed from the bondage of a works-based salvation. He was free indeed. His was not a passionless salvation, but rather one that was worked out in fear and trembling.

Calvin seems to have been much more intellectual and scholarly in his approach (Not that Luther was a dope, he did translate the entire Bible into German. He was just more "earthy.") Both men gloried in the doctrines of grace concerning salvation and the fact that God is the one who elects to save according to His will. It is God who gives faith and God who has predestined those who receive faith to be conformed to the image of Christ.

While many may think that it is election or predestination that causes fellow believers to hate the Reformation Movement, I would submit that it is neither. I have come to the conclusion that the movement is hated because it is imbalanced.

When I first read the passages (in a college Bible study) in Romans that concern God's election, I was offended. I had grown up with an imblanced view that I had saved myself. "I was sinking deep in sin far from the peaceful shore..." But, if the Apostle Paul was right I was not sinking -- I was "DEAD in sins and trespasses." I was not seeking God, but He was seeking me. The offense was replaced with joy and a sureness that I had never known concerning my own salvation. It was not my work, rather it was the work of God. It was not MY faith, nor my sincere prayer that saved me. It was faith that God gave me regardless of my emotion, sincerity or manifestations.

My zeal for good theology sent me gorging on words about God. The more I knew the more proud and arrogant I became. I began to hate the Church in America. I came to see most churches in America as fulfillments of the prophesy concerning Laodacea (although they were rich and had need of nothing they were poor, blind, miserable and naked). I gloried in the wrath of God that was being stored up for the sons of disobedience. I gloried that I was chosen before the foundations of the World. I hated the ignorant preachers who spent more time beating me up for not tithing or being a good person than speaking about Christ.

I was becoming full of good theology. I was so full that I could not eat another bite. The sweetness of God's love had become repulsive to me as I had feasted on His glory, wrath and election. Some years later, God brought me to a point of starvation.

The day that I was told that my daughter had brain damage all of my good theology flew right out the window. "God is without body, parts or passions." "God does everything for His own glory." Extra Biblical theological statements and maxims were useless to me. All I knew was the Gospel, and I wanted God to speak to me. I cried and moaned for hours. Quote Calvin to me, are you kidding me? God had deformed my child for His own egocentric glory?!? I didn't want to hear Calvin, Luther or Billy Graham for that matter. I had to hear from God Himself. I was not hungry; I was famished.

"Do you hate your daughter?"

"No, God. Maybe I am angry with you, but how could I hate her?"

"Then why do you hate my Church? You say you love me, but you hate my Bride. Therefore, my love does not live in you."

That word was so bitter, but God's bitter word was sweet to a starving man.

Scripture does not teach us that God so desired to glorify Himself that He sent Jesus. On the contrary His word teaches us that "God so LOVED the world that He gave His only begotten Son." God's nature is love. He is LOVE. Of course His love brings Him glory; everything He does is glorious. But God is a God of passion and love. This passionate God loved us so much that He took on flesh, humbled Himself and became a man. He disrobed His glory and manifest His very nature of Love by submitting to death on a cross. His love and power resurrected the dead body of Christ, and it is by His love that He gives faith and His Spirit to men, and conforms them to His image. It is because of His great love that He has done this. It is because of His great love that He has maimed my daughter's body and afflicted us with trials. He is working all things together for the good of them that love Him and are called according to His good purposes.

I fear God. I mean shaking in my shoes terrified. I fear Him because of His great love. He is the Lion of Judah that tears us to pieces. He is also the Lamb of God that loves us with a jealous and divine passion. He loves us so much that we share in the sufferings of Christ so that we might be more than converted -- we might be made new creatures and conformed to His glorious image.

We have been commanded to make disciples. We have been commanded to teach and reprove. But the greatest commandment is to love God and our neighbor as ourselves. If love is our motivation (as I believe it is God's), then everything that we do will be to the glory of God.

Why do some people hate the reformation movement? While it is full of zeal for good theology, it is often void of God's love, the love He has for Christ's body (His bride, the Church) and His passion that is all consuming.