In Matthew's Gospel Jesus said, "Go ye into all the world and make disciples..." What does "make" mean? It connotes that a process is required when developing people into Christlikeness, does it not?
I believe Jesus alludes to this process in the "parable of the sower" found in Matthew 13, Luke 8 and Mark 4 in His reference to various "soil" conditions. Some soil, Jesus says, is not conducive to seed growth. Seed sown under or around tree and shrub will be consumed by birds. Seed scattered on a crusty path will be trampled under foot. Finally Jesus indicates that planting seed in rocky soil is nothing more than an act of futility on the part of the sower because it will not root properly and will be scorched by the sun.
Being effective in "making disciples" requires soil preparation on the part of Christians today. We must be intentional and responsible with the broadcasting of spiritual seed in that we discern the readiness of the soil.
Effective sowing of the Gospel requires relationship building. Heart-soil must be prepared by drawing near to others and showing interest in their life and family. It requires a concerted effort by the church body as a whole in addressing the social needs of our community through "Matthew 25" ministry.
Social action and loving one's fellow man is not a substitution for the Gospel it is the proper preparation for the Gospel. Solomon reminds us in Ecclesiastes that "there is a time and a season for everything. A time tilling, planting and harvesting" and the same is true for the Gospel.
Paul tells us that one must "believe in their heart that Jesus is the Christ and confess with their mouth to be saved" from eternal damnation and go to heaven. However, bringing people to this point requires a process. The process of "soil preparation." I believe balanced evangelism as described above is required in order to "make disciples." What say you?
Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Final Farewell
This morning I returned to the impound to clean out my Jeep. I am told that it is being towed to the crusher today. As I stood before the heap of mangled steel with camera in hand my thoughts went to the numerous times in scripture when God's people built an altar unto to Lord after a season of testing or blessing as a remembrance.
From this day forward when I think of my first Wrangler I will refer to it as "Jireh Jeep." When the word "Jehovah" is attached to "Jireh" in the Bible it means "the Lord who provides." Truly the Lord is my provider-my sufficiency.
Lisa and Adrian experienced many fun times in "big green" over the past 21 months. But, more importantly, we both have discovered deeper intimacy with Jesus and with one another as a result of the crash. I did not realize I could have deeper feelings and appreciation for the love of my life until I almost lost her last week. I also sense that I would not have experienced a greater level of intimacy and appreciation for Christ without last week's crash.
I aggree with the Apostle Paul, "All things work for the good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose" - Romans 8:28 Farewell Jeep. Hello JESUS! What's our next adventure?
Thanks for stopping by...
------
Adrian
From this day forward when I think of my first Wrangler I will refer to it as "Jireh Jeep." When the word "Jehovah" is attached to "Jireh" in the Bible it means "the Lord who provides." Truly the Lord is my provider-my sufficiency.
Lisa and Adrian experienced many fun times in "big green" over the past 21 months. But, more importantly, we both have discovered deeper intimacy with Jesus and with one another as a result of the crash. I did not realize I could have deeper feelings and appreciation for the love of my life until I almost lost her last week. I also sense that I would not have experienced a greater level of intimacy and appreciation for Christ without last week's crash.
I aggree with the Apostle Paul, "All things work for the good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose" - Romans 8:28 Farewell Jeep. Hello JESUS! What's our next adventure?
Thanks for stopping by...
------
Adrian
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
A Christian Hedonist?
I have been rereading The Moral Quest by Stanley Grenz for the past two weeks and today a question came to me, “Am I a Christian hedonist?” In Philosophy hedonism entails two things: “pleasure is always good for its own sake and pain is always bad. And, pleasure is the only good thing for its own sake, and pain is the only thing intrinsically bad” (Grenz, 37)
When I stereotypically think of a hedonist I picture a “party animal.” One who is loud, rowdy, drunk or high and sexually indulgent. But as Grenz points out “a hedonist can be a law abiding citizen … even a good Christian.” (38) They may repel the pleasures of the “worldly life” but that does not mean the Christian is not pleasure centered in focus. Perhaps their devotion to God is motivated by pleasure. Or perhaps they are “eternal hedonists who eagerly follow God only for the pleasure of eternity. Purposefully doing on earth what is necessary to assure a pleasurable eternity in a celestial city” (39)
I wonder how many Christians do establish their ethics (daily actions) not solely out of love for Christ but rather for the pleasure they hope to one day receive? Are they good "churchmen" because they covet streets of gold? When they present the Good News to another is the focus on the love of the Heavenly Father that was manifest through the Son or is the emphasis placed on sin and eternal damnation? Is their pray life pleasure focused? Is it “name it and claim it” or “blab it and grab it” prayer believing that with enough faith one can prevent the adverse circumstances of unhappiness?
Do they preach from the pulpit or teach behind a lectern for the pleasure of a paycheck or the emotional bliss that comes from the accolades of others? Do they instruct their children to do what is right out of passion for Christ or so they do not end up making a mess of their lives and their parent's shameful, painfilled and unhappy? Am I a Christian hedonist?
No, I am not a Christian hedonist. I have purposed in my heart to live a life pleasing to God because I love Jesus Christ. I believe in heaven and hell and will continue to preach the life of holiness but my focus will remain on the love of Christ. I looked forward to “the celestial city” and one day being there but my pleasure is found in my “real time” relationship with Jesus today. And, I really do hope there are motor cycles in heaven so I can do a burn out on a street of gold. NICE!
What say you … are you a Christian hedonist? Thanks for stopping by!
I bet my three sons will join me in a "celestial burn out" one day!
--------
Adrian
When I stereotypically think of a hedonist I picture a “party animal.” One who is loud, rowdy, drunk or high and sexually indulgent. But as Grenz points out “a hedonist can be a law abiding citizen … even a good Christian.” (38) They may repel the pleasures of the “worldly life” but that does not mean the Christian is not pleasure centered in focus. Perhaps their devotion to God is motivated by pleasure. Or perhaps they are “eternal hedonists who eagerly follow God only for the pleasure of eternity. Purposefully doing on earth what is necessary to assure a pleasurable eternity in a celestial city” (39)
I wonder how many Christians do establish their ethics (daily actions) not solely out of love for Christ but rather for the pleasure they hope to one day receive? Are they good "churchmen" because they covet streets of gold? When they present the Good News to another is the focus on the love of the Heavenly Father that was manifest through the Son or is the emphasis placed on sin and eternal damnation? Is their pray life pleasure focused? Is it “name it and claim it” or “blab it and grab it” prayer believing that with enough faith one can prevent the adverse circumstances of unhappiness?
Do they preach from the pulpit or teach behind a lectern for the pleasure of a paycheck or the emotional bliss that comes from the accolades of others? Do they instruct their children to do what is right out of passion for Christ or so they do not end up making a mess of their lives and their parent's shameful, painfilled and unhappy? Am I a Christian hedonist?
No, I am not a Christian hedonist. I have purposed in my heart to live a life pleasing to God because I love Jesus Christ. I believe in heaven and hell and will continue to preach the life of holiness but my focus will remain on the love of Christ. I looked forward to “the celestial city” and one day being there but my pleasure is found in my “real time” relationship with Jesus today. And, I really do hope there are motor cycles in heaven so I can do a burn out on a street of gold. NICE!
What say you … are you a Christian hedonist? Thanks for stopping by!
I bet my three sons will join me in a "celestial burn out" one day!
--------
Adrian
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Real Time
Yesterday I shared thoughts on adversity from the life experience of Habakkuk. I wonder how you would paraphrase his passage based upon your current events?
Habakkuk 3:17-19
“Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flocks may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls; yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength, He will make my feet like the deer’s feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills.”
Here is my rendition:
Though the economy is in the tank, and it seems hard to save a dime; though our 401k is now 201b, and the cost of living is trending up while our wages in decline; though the Jeep is now gone and the Kawasaki is in need of repair; yet I will rejoice in the God of my salvation. He has given me a dear wife, three wonderful sons, a gorgeous “pregnant” daughter-in-law (wahoo!) and four parents who are still alive! Jesus Christ is my sufficiency. He will provide my every need and I will exalt His name forever.
What say you?
Thanks for stopping by!
--------
Adrian
Habakkuk 3:17-19
“Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flocks may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls; yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength, He will make my feet like the deer’s feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills.”
Here is my rendition:
Though the economy is in the tank, and it seems hard to save a dime; though our 401k is now 201b, and the cost of living is trending up while our wages in decline; though the Jeep is now gone and the Kawasaki is in need of repair; yet I will rejoice in the God of my salvation. He has given me a dear wife, three wonderful sons, a gorgeous “pregnant” daughter-in-law (wahoo!) and four parents who are still alive! Jesus Christ is my sufficiency. He will provide my every need and I will exalt His name forever.
What say you?
Thanks for stopping by!
--------
Adrian
Monday, February 23, 2009
Adversity
Habakkuk 3:17-19
“Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flocks may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls; yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength, He will make my feet like the deer’s feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills.”
This morning as I was reading God’s word, praying and thinking about the past few days my thoughts went to the passage above. The message from Habakkuk is very simple. God is telling Judah that difficult day are on the horizon and they must cling to Him for their strength.
Here are my thoughts on Habakkuk. One, we all need a “Habakkuk” in our life. His name in Hebrew means “cling.” In times of adversity or pending doom we need people reminding us to “cling to Jesus.”
Two, clinging to Jesus is our security. The prophet states, “He will make my feet like deer’s feet.” I have viewed deer in different context over the past 20 years or so. First as a hunter walking through the woods and second as a resident of Eastlake, Ohio. We have deer everywhere in Eastlake!
The times I have chased deer down the street on my cycle I have noticed their hooves do not perform so well on concrete. However, in the woods their traction is impeccable. Likewise, when we cling to Jesus in times of adversity we are in our natural element and we have no need to fear faltering or stumbling. Our life is secure.
Three, clinging to Jesus is the road to victory. Habakkuk says, “He … makes me walk on my high places.” I have two thoughts on this phrase. One, as we cling to Jesus He will lead us onward and upward until we rise above the circumstances of life. He may choose to calm the storm, or not, but for sure He will calm His servant and speak peace to the troubled soul.
Two, in Habakkuk’s day the victorious military leader would climb to a high place and parade before his troops as they cheer his successful victory. The message to me in this is clear, “Jesus is my high place.” During adversity we must cling to Him and exalt Him to His rightful place … high and lifted up!
I hope these words encouraged you as they did me. Thanks for stopping by!
---------
Adrian
“Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flocks may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls; yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength, He will make my feet like the deer’s feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills.”
This morning as I was reading God’s word, praying and thinking about the past few days my thoughts went to the passage above. The message from Habakkuk is very simple. God is telling Judah that difficult day are on the horizon and they must cling to Him for their strength.
Here are my thoughts on Habakkuk. One, we all need a “Habakkuk” in our life. His name in Hebrew means “cling.” In times of adversity or pending doom we need people reminding us to “cling to Jesus.”
Two, clinging to Jesus is our security. The prophet states, “He will make my feet like deer’s feet.” I have viewed deer in different context over the past 20 years or so. First as a hunter walking through the woods and second as a resident of Eastlake, Ohio. We have deer everywhere in Eastlake!
The times I have chased deer down the street on my cycle I have noticed their hooves do not perform so well on concrete. However, in the woods their traction is impeccable. Likewise, when we cling to Jesus in times of adversity we are in our natural element and we have no need to fear faltering or stumbling. Our life is secure.
Three, clinging to Jesus is the road to victory. Habakkuk says, “He … makes me walk on my high places.” I have two thoughts on this phrase. One, as we cling to Jesus He will lead us onward and upward until we rise above the circumstances of life. He may choose to calm the storm, or not, but for sure He will calm His servant and speak peace to the troubled soul.
Two, in Habakkuk’s day the victorious military leader would climb to a high place and parade before his troops as they cheer his successful victory. The message to me in this is clear, “Jesus is my high place.” During adversity we must cling to Him and exalt Him to His rightful place … high and lifted up!
I hope these words encouraged you as they did me. Thanks for stopping by!
---------
Adrian
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Adversity
I believe God cares about how adverse circumstances affect our lives. The circumstances may be intense and painful at times but they do not have to overwhelm us or steal our peace and joy. In fact, anything that makes us need God is a blessing. Crisis can also provide an opportunity for us to deepen our intimacy with Christ.
To deepen intimacy with Christ during times of adversity I think we need to do the following: One, connect with the eyes of Jesus. We need to focus on Christ rather than the circumstances. During adversity the natural tendency is to fix our glaze on the outward circumstances- “the problem” and inwardly on self –“how can I fix it?” The best initial response to adversity is to find the eyes of Jesus.
Two, we need to connect with the heart of Jesus. Tell Him how it hurts and what you feel emotionally. Is there fear or uncertainty, depression or despair? Tell it to Jesus. The goal of relationship is intimacy. It is defined as “in-to-me-see.” Two hearts beating as one. Do not miss the opportunity to connect at this level with your Savior.
Three, connect with the hand of Jesus. Contentment flows out of knowing that God has provided everything we need for the present moment. That He is able to fulfill His purposes regardless of the circumstances and that you can trust His heart.
Four, connect with others. Just as we are called to be Christ for others so we must permit others to be the personification of Christ to us. Greater intimacy with Christ can be gained in relationship with one another and times of adversity can provide a unique opportunity for this to occur. Those are my thoughts. What say you?
Thanks for stopping by!
--------
Adrian
To deepen intimacy with Christ during times of adversity I think we need to do the following: One, connect with the eyes of Jesus. We need to focus on Christ rather than the circumstances. During adversity the natural tendency is to fix our glaze on the outward circumstances- “the problem” and inwardly on self –“how can I fix it?” The best initial response to adversity is to find the eyes of Jesus.
Two, we need to connect with the heart of Jesus. Tell Him how it hurts and what you feel emotionally. Is there fear or uncertainty, depression or despair? Tell it to Jesus. The goal of relationship is intimacy. It is defined as “in-to-me-see.” Two hearts beating as one. Do not miss the opportunity to connect at this level with your Savior.
Three, connect with the hand of Jesus. Contentment flows out of knowing that God has provided everything we need for the present moment. That He is able to fulfill His purposes regardless of the circumstances and that you can trust His heart.
Four, connect with others. Just as we are called to be Christ for others so we must permit others to be the personification of Christ to us. Greater intimacy with Christ can be gained in relationship with one another and times of adversity can provide a unique opportunity for this to occur. Those are my thoughts. What say you?
Thanks for stopping by!
--------
Adrian
Saturday, February 21, 2009
What if?
I must confess the question “what if?” has popped into my head a few times over the past two days. What if circumstances from the accident that totaled my Jeep on the nineteenth of February, 2009 also ended Lisa’s life on earth? How would today be different? How would I and others view God?
It is easy for me to attribute the joy I have regarding the outcome of the accident to God. I sense from viewing the mangled Wrangler yesterday that it was more than a fate, coincidence or simply a well made vehicle that preserved my wife from serious injury or death. It is easy to wrap my thoughts around God’s control, protection and love when I reflect on the events of that day. However, “what if things had been different?”
What if Lisa had not walked away without serious injury and I was posting this blog from the intensive care unit of the Cleveland Clinic or in between calling hours at the local funeral home? What if the picture below was the last to be taken of us as a married couple? Would the feelings I have for God today be different? Would the words used to describe the outcome of the accident change? Would we still say, “God was in control at that moment? That His love for Lisa led to her earthly demise? The event and circumstances were divinely orchestrated?
How should we view God when things seem to go wrong? What role does He play when bad things happen to good people? I would like to hear your thoughts.
Thanks for stopping by!
--------
Adrian
It is easy for me to attribute the joy I have regarding the outcome of the accident to God. I sense from viewing the mangled Wrangler yesterday that it was more than a fate, coincidence or simply a well made vehicle that preserved my wife from serious injury or death. It is easy to wrap my thoughts around God’s control, protection and love when I reflect on the events of that day. However, “what if things had been different?”
What if Lisa had not walked away without serious injury and I was posting this blog from the intensive care unit of the Cleveland Clinic or in between calling hours at the local funeral home? What if the picture below was the last to be taken of us as a married couple? Would the feelings I have for God today be different? Would the words used to describe the outcome of the accident change? Would we still say, “God was in control at that moment? That His love for Lisa led to her earthly demise? The event and circumstances were divinely orchestrated?
How should we view God when things seem to go wrong? What role does He play when bad things happen to good people? I would like to hear your thoughts.
Thanks for stopping by!
--------
Adrian
Friday, February 20, 2009
Pictures from Lisa's accident
Today I took Lisa to the impound where the Jeep was towed after her accident. Here are a few of the pictures we took. It is nothing short of a miracle that she was not injured. "Rejoice in the Lord always and again I say rejoice!"
Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Grateful
I have really enjoyed owning a Jeep. It is the next best thing to riding my motorcycle for the “open air” feel. Lisa and I have had a lot of good times striping off the top and doors and running through the mountains of North Carolina or the valleys of eastern Ohio.
Unfortunately today around 1 PM my 07 Wrangler was totaled and is headed for the junk yard. My wife Lisa was the first in a 30 car pile up on I- 480 near Twinsburg, Ohio. She was traveling to Salem, Ohio to visit with her parents at the time. When she slowed “Big Green” to navigate through "white-out" conditions and icy roads the cars and semis behind her could not. She was hit and spun around by multiple vehicles, was pinned in the Jeep for over 45 minutes, and eventually rescued by firemen through the roof! (Not bad for a woman who just found out she is going to be a grandma in September!)
We praise the Lord she was able to climb out of the vehicle and walked away with only a few minor bruises. We returned home from getting her checked out at the hospital with a bag of pain pills in hand just in time to see pictures of the Jeep on Fox 8 news. Unfortunately, several other drivers were seriously injured in the crash.
Tonight I give thanks to my God with a grateful heart. Life is fragile and each day we must submit ourselves into His care and keeping. My merciful Heavenly Father saved me from the destruction of my sin many years ago and today saved my precious wife from serious physical harm. He is my God and with great honor I choose to be His humble servant forever.
Thanks for stopping by!
---------
Adrian
Unfortunately today around 1 PM my 07 Wrangler was totaled and is headed for the junk yard. My wife Lisa was the first in a 30 car pile up on I- 480 near Twinsburg, Ohio. She was traveling to Salem, Ohio to visit with her parents at the time. When she slowed “Big Green” to navigate through "white-out" conditions and icy roads the cars and semis behind her could not. She was hit and spun around by multiple vehicles, was pinned in the Jeep for over 45 minutes, and eventually rescued by firemen through the roof! (Not bad for a woman who just found out she is going to be a grandma in September!)
We praise the Lord she was able to climb out of the vehicle and walked away with only a few minor bruises. We returned home from getting her checked out at the hospital with a bag of pain pills in hand just in time to see pictures of the Jeep on Fox 8 news. Unfortunately, several other drivers were seriously injured in the crash.
Tonight I give thanks to my God with a grateful heart. Life is fragile and each day we must submit ourselves into His care and keeping. My merciful Heavenly Father saved me from the destruction of my sin many years ago and today saved my precious wife from serious physical harm. He is my God and with great honor I choose to be His humble servant forever.
Thanks for stopping by!
---------
Adrian
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Pentecost
I was reading Acts 2 this morning. I love the account of Pentecost. I am convinced God wants to move on His people today in a similar way. What is our responsibility?
One, we must long for such an experience. Two, we must pray for such an experience. As Jesus stood in the Jordan river and prayed the Holy Spirit descended on Him; and in the Upper Room while the disciples prayed the Holy Spirit descended on them. Obviously, the Spirit comes on praying people. Three, we must be in unity to experience a corporate outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
The Acts 2 account states, "When the day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came..." (2:1-2). The Greek word translated "accord" is homothumadon meaning "same mind."
What will it take for a genuine "Pentecost" move of God's Spirit to happen at Willoughby Hills Friends Church? It will require a "heart hunger" for such an experience to occur and consistent prayer. But more importantly, our attendees must be "singleness of mind."
It is imperative that each member/attender in our organization be of the same mind. Rather than each one pursuing their own interest, preference, or selfish gain our focus must be on the person and purpose of Christ Jesus. We must strive to make Jesus preeminent in all things! I believe 2009 is the year when "the day of Pentecost will fully come" to Willoughby Hills Friends Church. What say you?
Thanks for stopping by!
-------
Adrian
One, we must long for such an experience. Two, we must pray for such an experience. As Jesus stood in the Jordan river and prayed the Holy Spirit descended on Him; and in the Upper Room while the disciples prayed the Holy Spirit descended on them. Obviously, the Spirit comes on praying people. Three, we must be in unity to experience a corporate outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
The Acts 2 account states, "When the day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came..." (2:1-2). The Greek word translated "accord" is homothumadon meaning "same mind."
What will it take for a genuine "Pentecost" move of God's Spirit to happen at Willoughby Hills Friends Church? It will require a "heart hunger" for such an experience to occur and consistent prayer. But more importantly, our attendees must be "singleness of mind."
It is imperative that each member/attender in our organization be of the same mind. Rather than each one pursuing their own interest, preference, or selfish gain our focus must be on the person and purpose of Christ Jesus. We must strive to make Jesus preeminent in all things! I believe 2009 is the year when "the day of Pentecost will fully come" to Willoughby Hills Friends Church. What say you?
Thanks for stopping by!
-------
Adrian
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Affinity
Tonight I have a funeral to preach. My friend Bill Hathaway died last weekend at the age of 92. I met Bill eleven years ago when I moved to Willoughby Hills. He and Dorothy opened their heart and home to me and relationship developed. I will miss Bill.
Bill was 45 years my senior and I wonder why there would be such an affinity between the two of us? Was the chemistry just right, as they say? Was it because Bill was still young at heart and would still dream with me? Was it simply because we both enjoyed teasing his wife? There could be a number of reasons I guess, for the “connect” between Bill and Adrian, most of which I may never fully understand.
This morning as I reflect on the other friendships I enjoy with others I realize there is a “connect” if you will, with many men that I simply cannot fully understand. It just is. However, I have a sneaky suspicion that “affinity” exists between us because of our common interest in Jesus Christ. He seems to be the chemistry, the “mortar” of our relationship.
I thank God today for such relationship. Especially for the men He has placed in my life. Men who love Jesus Christ and have fully consecrated the sum total of their existence in relationship with Him. My friends are men who are committed to family. They are men who value their wife and child more than personal gratification. Men who consistently aspire to a cause that extends beyond personal gain. Men who are determined not to simply let “history repeat itself” but endeavor to “set history straight” for others to orient their lives too.
I like this kind of connect. It is affinity at its best. I pray that my tenure on earth will have favorable impact on others as others have had impact on me.
I’ll see you later Bill. The days are long but the years are short. One day I to will pass but until then, I'll continue to live!
Thanks for stopping by!
---------
Adrian
Bill was 45 years my senior and I wonder why there would be such an affinity between the two of us? Was the chemistry just right, as they say? Was it because Bill was still young at heart and would still dream with me? Was it simply because we both enjoyed teasing his wife? There could be a number of reasons I guess, for the “connect” between Bill and Adrian, most of which I may never fully understand.
This morning as I reflect on the other friendships I enjoy with others I realize there is a “connect” if you will, with many men that I simply cannot fully understand. It just is. However, I have a sneaky suspicion that “affinity” exists between us because of our common interest in Jesus Christ. He seems to be the chemistry, the “mortar” of our relationship.
I thank God today for such relationship. Especially for the men He has placed in my life. Men who love Jesus Christ and have fully consecrated the sum total of their existence in relationship with Him. My friends are men who are committed to family. They are men who value their wife and child more than personal gratification. Men who consistently aspire to a cause that extends beyond personal gain. Men who are determined not to simply let “history repeat itself” but endeavor to “set history straight” for others to orient their lives too.
I like this kind of connect. It is affinity at its best. I pray that my tenure on earth will have favorable impact on others as others have had impact on me.
I’ll see you later Bill. The days are long but the years are short. One day I to will pass but until then, I'll continue to live!
Thanks for stopping by!
---------
Adrian
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Closing the Back Door
Stan Grenz tells the story of Charlie Brown sitting comfortably in his easy chair when he hears a noise in the kitchen. Checking it out, he catches Snoopy raiding the refrigerator. “Hey, what are you doing?” he asks. Then he pulled out his Bible and read aloud from Exodus, “Thou shall not steal!”
Snoopy, being knowledgeable in the scriptures replied, “Deuteronomy says thou shall not muzzle the ox while he treads out the grain.” He then slipped away with an arm load of food and resumed a comfortable position on his doghouse. Charlie Brown opened his Bible and reread the verse Snoopy quoted. Realizing what happened he hollered, “You are not trampling out the grain!” Snoopy replied with a mouth full of food, “I know but it got me out the back door!” (The Moral Quest, page 95)
Like Snoopy many have used (misused) the Bible to justify their action. Most of us would agree that Christian ethics rests upon the traditions of the Bible and yet how do we keep from using it to “let ourselves out the back door” ethically/morally? I propose we focus on the life and teachings of Jesus. I believe that one way we can shut the back door to the ethical misuse of scripture is to allow the words in red to “upstage” other passages.
What say you? Do you think this would suffice in leveling the ethical playing field among Christians? Could the behavior and words of Jesus serve as the sole ethical articles for church leaders to follow? I would like to hear your thoughts…
Thanks for stopping by!
---------
Adrian
Snoopy, being knowledgeable in the scriptures replied, “Deuteronomy says thou shall not muzzle the ox while he treads out the grain.” He then slipped away with an arm load of food and resumed a comfortable position on his doghouse. Charlie Brown opened his Bible and reread the verse Snoopy quoted. Realizing what happened he hollered, “You are not trampling out the grain!” Snoopy replied with a mouth full of food, “I know but it got me out the back door!” (The Moral Quest, page 95)
Like Snoopy many have used (misused) the Bible to justify their action. Most of us would agree that Christian ethics rests upon the traditions of the Bible and yet how do we keep from using it to “let ourselves out the back door” ethically/morally? I propose we focus on the life and teachings of Jesus. I believe that one way we can shut the back door to the ethical misuse of scripture is to allow the words in red to “upstage” other passages.
What say you? Do you think this would suffice in leveling the ethical playing field among Christians? Could the behavior and words of Jesus serve as the sole ethical articles for church leaders to follow? I would like to hear your thoughts…
Thanks for stopping by!
---------
Adrian
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Church Of What's Happening: Life, Freedom, Healing
Hi fellow bloggers,
I want to inform you of a new blog just posted by one of my friends. Click below and check it out.
Church Of What's Happening: Life, Freedom, Healing
Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
I want to inform you of a new blog just posted by one of my friends. Click below and check it out.
Church Of What's Happening: Life, Freedom, Healing
Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
Ethical "isms"
In the field of ethics there are many “isms” one can study. Permit me to mention two of them and please tell me what influence you think they have on contemporary Christian ethics. Again, the discussion thread for this week is centered on pastoral ethics. Specifically today I am wondering “why or how” a church leader can justify doing the opposite of what they said they would never do. Or how they can justify committing the very same act they condemned others in their profession for doing?
Now for the “isms.” Heirarchicalism is when one arranges their ethical principles according to priority so when conflict occurs they simply suspend one rule for another. Some refer to this process as situational ethics. Possibly this is why some church leaders will say, “I will never do what so and so did” only to turn around and do the same thing that “so and so did” because in their mind they were wronged, lied to, etc., and that served as justification for the action.
Another “ism” is ethical egoism. This “ism” declares that “each person’s sole moral obligation is to advance the agenda of one’s own welfare or to act in a manner so as to bring about the greatest amount of good over evil for yourself and sympathizers” (Grenz, The Moral Quest, page 34). Again, maybe some of the unethical behaviors of pastors/leaders saying one thing and doing another is intrinsically justified by reasoning the other camp is “evil or sinful,” thus I have a spiritual/moral obligation to defeat evil at all costs. Could this also serve as their license for using divisive words and actions and for ignoring prior covenants, commitments and convictions?
I would like to hear your thoughts on this subject? Do you see how these two “isms” may play a role in contemporary Christian ethics? Thanks again for stopping by!
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Adrian
Now for the “isms.” Heirarchicalism is when one arranges their ethical principles according to priority so when conflict occurs they simply suspend one rule for another. Some refer to this process as situational ethics. Possibly this is why some church leaders will say, “I will never do what so and so did” only to turn around and do the same thing that “so and so did” because in their mind they were wronged, lied to, etc., and that served as justification for the action.
Another “ism” is ethical egoism. This “ism” declares that “each person’s sole moral obligation is to advance the agenda of one’s own welfare or to act in a manner so as to bring about the greatest amount of good over evil for yourself and sympathizers” (Grenz, The Moral Quest, page 34). Again, maybe some of the unethical behaviors of pastors/leaders saying one thing and doing another is intrinsically justified by reasoning the other camp is “evil or sinful,” thus I have a spiritual/moral obligation to defeat evil at all costs. Could this also serve as their license for using divisive words and actions and for ignoring prior covenants, commitments and convictions?
I would like to hear your thoughts on this subject? Do you see how these two “isms” may play a role in contemporary Christian ethics? Thanks again for stopping by!
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Adrian
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Five Lies Contemporaries Love
Okay, maybe I am obsessed with the topic of ethics this week and searching all the literature I can find on the subject but I think I found a real gem here. It is called the “Five Lies Contemporaries Love” by John MacArthur (Heartcry!, issue 45, 2009).
One, Life is random. We are all products of evolutionary chance – no purpose, no creator, no accountability. No one made us, we have no reason, and that is why we are free in this random world to do what we want.
Two, Truth is relative. No absolutes, no standards. Ethics can be changed if you have enough clout, power and persistence but there is no absolute truth. We are all free to possess our own truth and demand and to demand the freedom to live our lives according to our own truth which is our own invention.
Three, People are basically good. If they go bad, someone else is to blame. Somebody else abused them. They lack self-esteem. They have psychological problems based upon environmental failures. But people are basically good. “I’m a good person.”
Four, Everyone can change their own life. Get control, take charge, become the person you want to be. You have the power to be whatever you want to be. That’s the biggest lie ever: “You can be everything you want to be.’ There are certain things you can’t ever change. You cannot do anything you want to do, that’s ridiculous. But that fits the mantra of this maniacal kind of freedom in a sin saturated culture.
Five, The Goal of life is self-satisfaction. You hear people say, “This is who I am, take it or leave it, and I am happy who I am.” And you want to say, “Well, we wish you weren’t; just go somewhere else.”
This behavior sounds a lot like the life ethic of Immanuel Kant which can be summed up in one imperative: “Always do the act that is motivated by the sincere belief that what you are doing is the right thing to do…” (The Moral Quest, Grenz, pg. 31). What would be the ethical statement of contemporary Jesus I wonder? What say you?
Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
One, Life is random. We are all products of evolutionary chance – no purpose, no creator, no accountability. No one made us, we have no reason, and that is why we are free in this random world to do what we want.
Two, Truth is relative. No absolutes, no standards. Ethics can be changed if you have enough clout, power and persistence but there is no absolute truth. We are all free to possess our own truth and demand and to demand the freedom to live our lives according to our own truth which is our own invention.
Three, People are basically good. If they go bad, someone else is to blame. Somebody else abused them. They lack self-esteem. They have psychological problems based upon environmental failures. But people are basically good. “I’m a good person.”
Four, Everyone can change their own life. Get control, take charge, become the person you want to be. You have the power to be whatever you want to be. That’s the biggest lie ever: “You can be everything you want to be.’ There are certain things you can’t ever change. You cannot do anything you want to do, that’s ridiculous. But that fits the mantra of this maniacal kind of freedom in a sin saturated culture.
Five, The Goal of life is self-satisfaction. You hear people say, “This is who I am, take it or leave it, and I am happy who I am.” And you want to say, “Well, we wish you weren’t; just go somewhere else.”
This behavior sounds a lot like the life ethic of Immanuel Kant which can be summed up in one imperative: “Always do the act that is motivated by the sincere belief that what you are doing is the right thing to do…” (The Moral Quest, Grenz, pg. 31). What would be the ethical statement of contemporary Jesus I wonder? What say you?
Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Ethics and Sin
Is Being Unethical Sin?
I am reading two books on ethics, “Readings in Christian Ethics” by Clark and “The Moral Quest” by Grenz. Both begin by attempting to define ethics and morality. Grenz says that “Christian ethics is the study of how people ought to live as informed by the Bible and Christian conviction” (23). The etymology of the word “ethic” is Greek, “Ethica or etheos meaning what relates to character” (23). The origin of morality on the other hand is Latin, “Moralis, meaning custom or usage” (23).
It seems there is a slight difference between the use of morality and ethics. Morality focuses on the living out of one’s beliefs whereas ethics hones in on the study of why beliefs are right, wrong or immoral. The question I raise for discussion is, “When does sin occur?” Does sin occur when ethics are established outside of a Biblical framework and universal Christian conviction? Or is sin the act of not being true to ones convictions?”
The post modern era in which we live seems to struggle with normative or “universal” ethics and the church is no different. As I mentioned in yesterday’s post, it seems some clergy struggle with locating true north on the moral/ethical compass these days. What is the universal Christian conviction or standard for clergy or Christians in general today? Should there be one and who should establish it? I would like to hear your thoughts on the matter.
Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
I am reading two books on ethics, “Readings in Christian Ethics” by Clark and “The Moral Quest” by Grenz. Both begin by attempting to define ethics and morality. Grenz says that “Christian ethics is the study of how people ought to live as informed by the Bible and Christian conviction” (23). The etymology of the word “ethic” is Greek, “Ethica or etheos meaning what relates to character” (23). The origin of morality on the other hand is Latin, “Moralis, meaning custom or usage” (23).
It seems there is a slight difference between the use of morality and ethics. Morality focuses on the living out of one’s beliefs whereas ethics hones in on the study of why beliefs are right, wrong or immoral. The question I raise for discussion is, “When does sin occur?” Does sin occur when ethics are established outside of a Biblical framework and universal Christian conviction? Or is sin the act of not being true to ones convictions?”
The post modern era in which we live seems to struggle with normative or “universal” ethics and the church is no different. As I mentioned in yesterday’s post, it seems some clergy struggle with locating true north on the moral/ethical compass these days. What is the universal Christian conviction or standard for clergy or Christians in general today? Should there be one and who should establish it? I would like to hear your thoughts on the matter.
Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
Monday, February 9, 2009
Ethics
For the past several days I have been thinking and reading "ethics." Last Friday I attended the Executive Board meeting of my denomination and one of the topics for discussion was "pastoral ethics." There seems to be a growing need for our denominational leaders to compose an ethical statement for pastors to sign before they will receive credentials/employment with the Evangelical Friends Church.
One area of concern to be addressed in the statement is future employment. Several pastors have left their church in the past few years and started another church close by. In every case it seems this action has been injurious to the local church. The Executive Board will be wrestling with the appropriateness of this action and how it will be governed in the future.
What say you? Is it ethical for a pastor to behave in such a manner? Have these former Friends pastors lost their ethical moorings? What guidelines would you suggest? What other current ethical considerations should be addressed regarding pastoral ministry? I have raised several questions for your consideration. Are any of them of interest to you? I welcome your response and I will be happy to forward your comments on to my denominational leaders.
Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
One area of concern to be addressed in the statement is future employment. Several pastors have left their church in the past few years and started another church close by. In every case it seems this action has been injurious to the local church. The Executive Board will be wrestling with the appropriateness of this action and how it will be governed in the future.
What say you? Is it ethical for a pastor to behave in such a manner? Have these former Friends pastors lost their ethical moorings? What guidelines would you suggest? What other current ethical considerations should be addressed regarding pastoral ministry? I have raised several questions for your consideration. Are any of them of interest to you? I welcome your response and I will be happy to forward your comments on to my denominational leaders.
Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Purpose for Being
One key ingredient to pursuing excellence in ministry is to make sure people understand the "idea" or purpose behind who they are and what they do. In business, understanding the “idea behind the work” is in some ways more important that the work itself. The same is true for the church. Without a right conception of life and service, individuals can be skewed by self interest, lack of direction and emotional dissociation. Life and ministry can become nothing more than task oriented activity and one's joy can easily be squelched. In some instances, I think I have observed people abandon their ministry or relationship with Christ do to a lack of purpose and meaning.
In many ways, our life and ministry should be viewed as an opportunity to practice being the best we can be. In Quaker history this is referred to as "practicing the presence of Christ." Gerber presents a unique analogy of this concept in The E Myth Revisited. He says that “a business is like a martial arts practice hall, a dojo, a place you go to practice being the best you can be. The true combat in a dojo is not between one person and another as most people believe it to be. The true combat in a martial arts practice hall is between the people within themselves” (201).
I think this example applies to the Christian’s life and ministry as well. In essence we are practicing the life of Jesus through our daily experience and service in His kingdom. This is a common courtesy we can extend to self and others once we discover what the idea or purpose is for our life and service. What is our purpose? Romans 8:28-29 states to “be conformed into the likeness of Jesus and to know that God will use all things in our life experience to this end.” We are called to live “in” and “out” our relationship with Christ.
If we struggle with embracing this personal life view or with the concept of dying to self and living for others then the focus must be turned inward. James 4:1 stated, “Where to these quarrels and fights come from? Do they not come from the things that war within you?” James’ admonition for inner peace is “do not be double-minded” (verse 8). Or in other words, know and embrace the idea behind your existence. Pursuing excellence in life and service begins with integration, the singleness of focus and purpose.
At Willoughby Hills Friends Church we believe in the power and provision of Jesus Christ to integrate our lives with His. A power that can transform our innermost being into a relationship and likeness with Jesus and to provide the necessary resources to live out His example every moment of our existence. Do you understand this as the “idea” behind your life?
Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
In many ways, our life and ministry should be viewed as an opportunity to practice being the best we can be. In Quaker history this is referred to as "practicing the presence of Christ." Gerber presents a unique analogy of this concept in The E Myth Revisited. He says that “a business is like a martial arts practice hall, a dojo, a place you go to practice being the best you can be. The true combat in a dojo is not between one person and another as most people believe it to be. The true combat in a martial arts practice hall is between the people within themselves” (201).
I think this example applies to the Christian’s life and ministry as well. In essence we are practicing the life of Jesus through our daily experience and service in His kingdom. This is a common courtesy we can extend to self and others once we discover what the idea or purpose is for our life and service. What is our purpose? Romans 8:28-29 states to “be conformed into the likeness of Jesus and to know that God will use all things in our life experience to this end.” We are called to live “in” and “out” our relationship with Christ.
If we struggle with embracing this personal life view or with the concept of dying to self and living for others then the focus must be turned inward. James 4:1 stated, “Where to these quarrels and fights come from? Do they not come from the things that war within you?” James’ admonition for inner peace is “do not be double-minded” (verse 8). Or in other words, know and embrace the idea behind your existence. Pursuing excellence in life and service begins with integration, the singleness of focus and purpose.
At Willoughby Hills Friends Church we believe in the power and provision of Jesus Christ to integrate our lives with His. A power that can transform our innermost being into a relationship and likeness with Jesus and to provide the necessary resources to live out His example every moment of our existence. Do you understand this as the “idea” behind your life?
Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Pursuing Excellence
One of my objectives this year is to revamp our outdated policy manuals. Not only is our policy manual outdated but so is the concept of a policy manual obsolete as well. I plan to create a “management system” or “operations manual” instead. Not a policy manual that subconsciously tells people what not to do but a management tool that will teach people a system of operation that will equip and empower them for service at Willoughby Hills Friends Church.
We must strive for excellence in all that we do at WHFC and an up to date management system will help us train new people almost instantly and have them producing a result that meets or exceeds our expectation in service and standard. I want us to deliver a predictable result to those who encounter WHFC. Every aspect of our ministry must be taken under consideration and we need one hundred percent participation from our constituents. We will need to create an environment where not pursuing excellence is unacceptable and pursuing excellence is woven into the very fabric of our organization.
This is our watch. At WHFC we will take our tenure seriously. What say you? What are your thoughts? What are some practical suggestions for presenting ourselves in a more excellent way? Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
We must strive for excellence in all that we do at WHFC and an up to date management system will help us train new people almost instantly and have them producing a result that meets or exceeds our expectation in service and standard. I want us to deliver a predictable result to those who encounter WHFC. Every aspect of our ministry must be taken under consideration and we need one hundred percent participation from our constituents. We will need to create an environment where not pursuing excellence is unacceptable and pursuing excellence is woven into the very fabric of our organization.
This is our watch. At WHFC we will take our tenure seriously. What say you? What are your thoughts? What are some practical suggestions for presenting ourselves in a more excellent way? Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Tight Rope Walking
We have an annual men's get-a-way at our denominational church camp just south of Canton Ohio. It is nestled in 200 acres of trees with a nice pond and sleeping lodges. It also has a cool ropes course. I have attempted to navigate it several times with other brothers from my fellowship and have observed that the larger one is the more difficult it is to stay balanced on the ropes. I believe the same is true for churches. The larger the facility, budget, attendance and programming the more difficult it is to achieve homeostasis -"balance."
One area I find most difficult to balance is addressing the preferences of our attendees worship style and designing a service that will stimulate the target audience we wish to attract? How do we cater to the emotion of the regulars and address the psycho graphics (perceived emotional needs) of our mission field? How can we provide a positive emotional experience for both through our worship venue?
At times the two are vastly different. Our target audience "mission field" is unchurched contemporaries who have little interest or emotional connect with church tradition and style. Whereas our regular attendees feel disenfranchised because the venue does not align with their preferences, expectation or experience. What is a healthy church to do?
We teach in psychology that emotions follow thinking and behavior. The worst thing we can do is set our mission and values by emotion. Most of the time, the last thing we should do is act out the way we feel. Our hope is that regulars attendees of Willoughby Hills Friends Church will continually remember the mission of our church is to attract the lost for the sake of Christ when it comes to worship style, and will consistently put their emotion in check and find great joy in suffering for Christ by catering to the need/preferences of our mission field. At Willoughby Hills Friends we expect a maturity level that will "die to self and live for others," namely Christ.
What say you? Is this expectation to unreasonable to ask of our regular attendees? What thoughts do you have on how we can better balance the emotional needs/preferences of regular attendees and our targeted mission field? Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
One area I find most difficult to balance is addressing the preferences of our attendees worship style and designing a service that will stimulate the target audience we wish to attract? How do we cater to the emotion of the regulars and address the psycho graphics (perceived emotional needs) of our mission field? How can we provide a positive emotional experience for both through our worship venue?
At times the two are vastly different. Our target audience "mission field" is unchurched contemporaries who have little interest or emotional connect with church tradition and style. Whereas our regular attendees feel disenfranchised because the venue does not align with their preferences, expectation or experience. What is a healthy church to do?
We teach in psychology that emotions follow thinking and behavior. The worst thing we can do is set our mission and values by emotion. Most of the time, the last thing we should do is act out the way we feel. Our hope is that regulars attendees of Willoughby Hills Friends Church will continually remember the mission of our church is to attract the lost for the sake of Christ when it comes to worship style, and will consistently put their emotion in check and find great joy in suffering for Christ by catering to the need/preferences of our mission field. At Willoughby Hills Friends we expect a maturity level that will "die to self and live for others," namely Christ.
What say you? Is this expectation to unreasonable to ask of our regular attendees? What thoughts do you have on how we can better balance the emotional needs/preferences of regular attendees and our targeted mission field? Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian
Monday, February 2, 2009
E-Myth (Part 7)
In part five of this discussion thread I presented Gerber's take on viewing the "product of a company as the emotional response a customer feels when they walk out of a business" (page 154). He believes this is actually more important than the commodity they receive. My suspicion is the same is true for the church as well. People seem to attend and support a church that leaves them feeling encouraged, hopeful,connected with and understood.
A friend just sent me the January edition of The Barna Update and the research seems to agree with this hypothesis. Barna states on page two of his report that people spend less time reading the Bible and are becoming less engaged in traditional activities to establish and deepen their faith views. Many are establishing their faith from dialogue, self-reflection and observation. Barna continues, "Feelings and emotions play a significant role in the development of people's faith views. More so than information based exercises such as listening to preaching, and participating in Bible study."
At Willoughby Hills Friends Church we will not compromise the message of God's word nor will we downplay the significance of it. However, we are committed to being contemporary in our presentation of God's truth. Our desire is for people to experience the Living Christ. Our objective is to understand the needs of people and orchestrate a symphony of ministry that will consistently strum their emotional chords for the glory of God and the transformation of their individual lives.
How are we doing in this area as a church? I welcome your thoughts and feedback.
Thanks for stopping by!
-------
Adrian
A friend just sent me the January edition of The Barna Update and the research seems to agree with this hypothesis. Barna states on page two of his report that people spend less time reading the Bible and are becoming less engaged in traditional activities to establish and deepen their faith views. Many are establishing their faith from dialogue, self-reflection and observation. Barna continues, "Feelings and emotions play a significant role in the development of people's faith views. More so than information based exercises such as listening to preaching, and participating in Bible study."
At Willoughby Hills Friends Church we will not compromise the message of God's word nor will we downplay the significance of it. However, we are committed to being contemporary in our presentation of God's truth. Our desire is for people to experience the Living Christ. Our objective is to understand the needs of people and orchestrate a symphony of ministry that will consistently strum their emotional chords for the glory of God and the transformation of their individual lives.
How are we doing in this area as a church? I welcome your thoughts and feedback.
Thanks for stopping by!
-------
Adrian
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