Romans 12. How many times have your heard a pastor speak on this most popular passage in Romans?
I must've heard at least 20 sermons. Honestly, everytime I heard some say "turn to Romans 12..." I begin to tune out. It's not the healthiest thing on my part. I should be teachable even if I heard Romans 12 about 300 times.
Thus, as I spoke on Romans 12 this past Sunday, I wanted to present a fresh new point of view. I didn't preach a heretical message or create some post-modern existential interpretation that deviates from the author's intent.
As I studied Romans 12, a point of view that I never really noticed is that we are living sacrifices with the purpose of serving one another. Often times vs.1-2 is taught in isolation from vs.5-8, when one flows smoothly into the other. We are "living sacrifices". We are still "living" because we are to serve the body of Christ and be ambassadors for Christ to the unchurched.
The question is... "How is our obedience?"
Are we obedient out of obligation? Or are we obedient in love?
Our obligation to obey keeps us committed to the right things.
As we mature and grow in love, then our obedience will take us to the next level of our relationship with God and His people.
Why is it so hard to obey?
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Really Great News!
Does God really love me?
It's not that I have doubts about God's love. It's that I've realized in a fresh new manner that God really does love me beyond what I have previously imagined.
My kids know that I love them. But my oldest one understands my love for him to a greater capacity than my youngest. Their capacity to know the extent of my love for them will grow as well.
That's what happenned to me this past week. As I studied through Romans 11, I realized the depth of God's love for me. There are a lot of reasons why God shouldn't love me. There are only a few reasons why God maybe should love me. In the end, God loves me by sheer grace. Did you get that? God loves me because He chooses to love me, not because of what I've done or even will do.
This is REALLY great news. God's love is faithful. Praise the Lord God Almighty!
It's not that I have doubts about God's love. It's that I've realized in a fresh new manner that God really does love me beyond what I have previously imagined.
My kids know that I love them. But my oldest one understands my love for him to a greater capacity than my youngest. Their capacity to know the extent of my love for them will grow as well.
That's what happenned to me this past week. As I studied through Romans 11, I realized the depth of God's love for me. There are a lot of reasons why God shouldn't love me. There are only a few reasons why God maybe should love me. In the end, God loves me by sheer grace. Did you get that? God loves me because He chooses to love me, not because of what I've done or even will do.
This is REALLY great news. God's love is faithful. Praise the Lord God Almighty!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Celebrate Recovery
Many of you have heard of Saddleback, 40 Days of Purpose and some guy named 'Rick Warren'. But how many of you have heard of Celebrate Recovery?
I'm not too familar with this ministry, or movement. But I have heard of the principles behind it. It's similar to a 12 Step Program, but with a defnitively strong Jesus focus.
2 years ago, I attended the Purpose Driven Worship Conference, and it was "A"-mazing, with a CAPITAL "A".
I decided to attend the 2007 Celebrate Recovery Summit and it's "EYE"-opening. Most of us think that we are all good and healthy because we don't resemble the guests on Jerry Springer. But in reality, when you personalize the Word of God and the Law, one realizes how "messed up" one truly is.
A lighter way of putting may be, "he/she is a bit off." The more blunt way to put it, "he/she is messed up." The crude way to put it, "he/she is jacked up". However one puts it? I am "off", "messed up" and "jacked up", and I'm happy to admit it because I'm more thirsty for the gospel. I am more hungry for Jesus, the bread of life. How much more do I need to "abide" and "imbibe" in Him?
It's been the first day, and I see that there are so many who have "hurts, hang-ups and habits" that need recovery, restoration, healing, etc.
Will anyone ever listen to my sermons or "pearls of wisdom", unless I can "empower" them to listen and obey? The ground work of real ministry happens throughout the week. Sunday is just one day, the catalyst for the week.
Lord, help me to celebrate recovery, and enable people to celebrate recovery.
I'm not too familar with this ministry, or movement. But I have heard of the principles behind it. It's similar to a 12 Step Program, but with a defnitively strong Jesus focus.
2 years ago, I attended the Purpose Driven Worship Conference, and it was "A"-mazing, with a CAPITAL "A".
I decided to attend the 2007 Celebrate Recovery Summit and it's "EYE"-opening. Most of us think that we are all good and healthy because we don't resemble the guests on Jerry Springer. But in reality, when you personalize the Word of God and the Law, one realizes how "messed up" one truly is.
A lighter way of putting may be, "he/she is a bit off." The more blunt way to put it, "he/she is messed up." The crude way to put it, "he/she is jacked up". However one puts it? I am "off", "messed up" and "jacked up", and I'm happy to admit it because I'm more thirsty for the gospel. I am more hungry for Jesus, the bread of life. How much more do I need to "abide" and "imbibe" in Him?
It's been the first day, and I see that there are so many who have "hurts, hang-ups and habits" that need recovery, restoration, healing, etc.
Will anyone ever listen to my sermons or "pearls of wisdom", unless I can "empower" them to listen and obey? The ground work of real ministry happens throughout the week. Sunday is just one day, the catalyst for the week.
Lord, help me to celebrate recovery, and enable people to celebrate recovery.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Been awhile
It's been a while, but I just didn't want to write stuff because I had to. I wanted to write because there have been God moments in my life.
The Summer months have been filled with a study through Romans and it's been amazing to saturate my mind in it and to allow my heart to be wrenched from the inside out in regards to the greatness of the Gospel.
Something that I've been realizing and felt a conviction over the past several weeks...
My goal is not to convey how much I studied throughout the week. Sermons should not be lectures. It's pretty clear that when you look up synonyms for 'sermon', you're not going to find lecture anywhere near it. In Christendom, sermons have ranged from heavy theological lessons to fluffy feel good self-help anecdotes.
I'm not of the camp that sermons should deviate from good exegesis and solid theological extraction. I'm not of the camp that sermons should be "Chicken Soup for the Soul" types of speeches either. Sermons should be the communication of God's word through a real human agent who has experienced and is experiencing God's living presence in their heart and lives.
I feel that I can only preach what God has been teaching me and what I've been experiencing. I would rather be real and authentic, than an empty voice.
Lord, may I know you more and guide others to know you more.
The Summer months have been filled with a study through Romans and it's been amazing to saturate my mind in it and to allow my heart to be wrenched from the inside out in regards to the greatness of the Gospel.
Something that I've been realizing and felt a conviction over the past several weeks...
My goal is not to convey how much I studied throughout the week. Sermons should not be lectures. It's pretty clear that when you look up synonyms for 'sermon', you're not going to find lecture anywhere near it. In Christendom, sermons have ranged from heavy theological lessons to fluffy feel good self-help anecdotes.
I'm not of the camp that sermons should deviate from good exegesis and solid theological extraction. I'm not of the camp that sermons should be "Chicken Soup for the Soul" types of speeches either. Sermons should be the communication of God's word through a real human agent who has experienced and is experiencing God's living presence in their heart and lives.
I feel that I can only preach what God has been teaching me and what I've been experiencing. I would rather be real and authentic, than an empty voice.
Lord, may I know you more and guide others to know you more.
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Praying as a way of Life
I have been experiencing more and more, the many things that I've been learning. It's as if God wants me to "know" Him more and more.
Here are some updates....
I gave a sermon on the Pentagon LifeShape which is really about "knowing your role in life." Paul made it so clear that we need to fulfill our role in the life of the church in his letter to the Ephesians. The power of God's grace is that it enables us to see that we are gifts to His church. We serve by God's grace. We give out of an overflow of His grace.
This past Sunday, I gave a sermon on the Hexagon LifeShape which is really about "praying as a way of life." The topic was really on the Lord's Prayer. As I watched my daughter perform at her dance recital on Saturday, it brought back memories of my own recital days. Here's the dark and hidden secret of my life. I use to... "play the flute." Yes, it's true. It sends chills down my spine as a I think about it.
But with recitals, we are called to play a master piece of another great composer or writer. We recite their music. Why? Because reciting their music is going to teach us real music. In a similar way, when we recite the Lord's prayer, we are reciting a master piece of a prayer. We learn how to pray when we pray as Jesus taught us to pray.
Read Matthew 6:9-13 and meditate on each line, each phrase, and each word.
Toward the end, I encouraged our congregation to recite the Lord's prayer 3 times a day instead of praying over a meal, and then I changed it to 2 times. I said, "alright maybe just 2 times a day instead." Then, it's as if God was speaking, because there was a power surge and the power almost went out. I decided that God was speaking and I changed it to 3 times a day, and the lights were fine. "Lord, thanks for speaking so clearly that day." Coincidence or God? Hmmmmm... You know what I think about it.
Pray the Lord's prayer this week, 3 times a day. Shalom.
Here are some updates....
I gave a sermon on the Pentagon LifeShape which is really about "knowing your role in life." Paul made it so clear that we need to fulfill our role in the life of the church in his letter to the Ephesians. The power of God's grace is that it enables us to see that we are gifts to His church. We serve by God's grace. We give out of an overflow of His grace.
This past Sunday, I gave a sermon on the Hexagon LifeShape which is really about "praying as a way of life." The topic was really on the Lord's Prayer. As I watched my daughter perform at her dance recital on Saturday, it brought back memories of my own recital days. Here's the dark and hidden secret of my life. I use to... "play the flute." Yes, it's true. It sends chills down my spine as a I think about it.
But with recitals, we are called to play a master piece of another great composer or writer. We recite their music. Why? Because reciting their music is going to teach us real music. In a similar way, when we recite the Lord's prayer, we are reciting a master piece of a prayer. We learn how to pray when we pray as Jesus taught us to pray.
Read Matthew 6:9-13 and meditate on each line, each phrase, and each word.
Toward the end, I encouraged our congregation to recite the Lord's prayer 3 times a day instead of praying over a meal, and then I changed it to 2 times. I said, "alright maybe just 2 times a day instead." Then, it's as if God was speaking, because there was a power surge and the power almost went out. I decided that God was speaking and I changed it to 3 times a day, and the lights were fine. "Lord, thanks for speaking so clearly that day." Coincidence or God? Hmmmmm... You know what I think about it.
Pray the Lord's prayer this week, 3 times a day. Shalom.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
More to this Life, A Passionate Life
Going through the motions of life. What's your routine? Some people like routines because they value consistency. Some people dread routine because they see it as monotony.
When the things that you do become routine, we sometimes drift into the mode of going through the motions without intentionality or appreciation.
There is a great song by Steve Curtis Chapman called "More to this Life". It captures the feelings that many of us go through when we're going through that daily grind: wake-up, breakfast, commute, work, commute, dinner, catch up, time with God, sleep, etc.
There truly is more to this life. That "more" is found when we go back to the heart of discipleship. Mike Breen wrote a book titled, "A Passionate Life" that talks about getting back to the heart of discipleship, which is more about being a disciple and less about the activity of discipleship.
Mike Breen teaches discipleship principles by using LifeShapes (basic geometric shapes that remind us of key principles for walking with Jesus in our everyday lives).
The first shape is the Circle: Learning from Life. Life is an arrow where we sometimes focus our eyes on eternity and heaven. But is life just about trying to survive to make sure we get to heaven? Obviously not.
We all have Kairos moments? Key moments that are both good or bad that enable us to experience discipleship as we stop to enter the portal of the Kingdom to practice two activities: Repent and Believe.
Last Sunday, I experienced a Kairos moment. As I was driving on t\he 210 Freeway from Church, and headed to my son's 1st baseball game. The front tire tread came off and flew into the air and I had to pull to the side of the road. Out in the middle of Sun Valley, the Tow Truck wasn't coming for another hour. So, I tried to change the tire myself. Several difficulties arose. The wrench to unscrew the nut was small and thus it was difficult to remove the nut. So, I stepped on it to get some leverage. And guess what happened? The nut and stud broke off. "Oh great!" I said to myself. I should've said it outl oud since no one would've heard me in the midst of freeway noise. Then I successfully removed 3 more nuts from the studs without a glitch. Then as I got to the final one, it was an irregular size nut. It didn't fit my wrench. I couldn't get it off. So I had to wait until the Tow Truck came. The metro truck came first, but the guy didn't want to break off the stud so he left it alone. Another tow truck came, and this guy broke off the stud. I had a replacement tire, but that meant I could only put 3 nuts on 3 studs and of course, that's not very safe. But I had to risk it. It was Sunday, and all mechanics were closed that day. Somehow I safely made it to Kragen, got the replacements parts. I went to my father-in-law's place and we fixed the tired. I missed the game. I got home late. And all that ran through my mine was, "Lord why did that happen?" Then it struck me. The tire was my first shape: the Circle. The lesson I learned on the 210 freeway was a Kairos moment. I once again experienced my sermon before I preached it.
Thank you Jesus for that Kairos moment to stop and go through the stages of repentance and belief.
Pray for God to give you some Kairos moments this week. It's a scary prayer, but it's a great one to experience.
When the things that you do become routine, we sometimes drift into the mode of going through the motions without intentionality or appreciation.
There is a great song by Steve Curtis Chapman called "More to this Life". It captures the feelings that many of us go through when we're going through that daily grind: wake-up, breakfast, commute, work, commute, dinner, catch up, time with God, sleep, etc.
There truly is more to this life. That "more" is found when we go back to the heart of discipleship. Mike Breen wrote a book titled, "A Passionate Life" that talks about getting back to the heart of discipleship, which is more about being a disciple and less about the activity of discipleship.
Mike Breen teaches discipleship principles by using LifeShapes (basic geometric shapes that remind us of key principles for walking with Jesus in our everyday lives).
The first shape is the Circle: Learning from Life. Life is an arrow where we sometimes focus our eyes on eternity and heaven. But is life just about trying to survive to make sure we get to heaven? Obviously not.
We all have Kairos moments? Key moments that are both good or bad that enable us to experience discipleship as we stop to enter the portal of the Kingdom to practice two activities: Repent and Believe.
Last Sunday, I experienced a Kairos moment. As I was driving on t\he 210 Freeway from Church, and headed to my son's 1st baseball game. The front tire tread came off and flew into the air and I had to pull to the side of the road. Out in the middle of Sun Valley, the Tow Truck wasn't coming for another hour. So, I tried to change the tire myself. Several difficulties arose. The wrench to unscrew the nut was small and thus it was difficult to remove the nut. So, I stepped on it to get some leverage. And guess what happened? The nut and stud broke off. "Oh great!" I said to myself. I should've said it outl oud since no one would've heard me in the midst of freeway noise. Then I successfully removed 3 more nuts from the studs without a glitch. Then as I got to the final one, it was an irregular size nut. It didn't fit my wrench. I couldn't get it off. So I had to wait until the Tow Truck came. The metro truck came first, but the guy didn't want to break off the stud so he left it alone. Another tow truck came, and this guy broke off the stud. I had a replacement tire, but that meant I could only put 3 nuts on 3 studs and of course, that's not very safe. But I had to risk it. It was Sunday, and all mechanics were closed that day. Somehow I safely made it to Kragen, got the replacements parts. I went to my father-in-law's place and we fixed the tired. I missed the game. I got home late. And all that ran through my mine was, "Lord why did that happen?" Then it struck me. The tire was my first shape: the Circle. The lesson I learned on the 210 freeway was a Kairos moment. I once again experienced my sermon before I preached it.
Thank you Jesus for that Kairos moment to stop and go through the stages of repentance and belief.
Pray for God to give you some Kairos moments this week. It's a scary prayer, but it's a great one to experience.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
God is so Generous
There are a group of people who advocate the idea that God will prosper you as you give to Him. It sounds too good to be true. You give to God and He will in turn double your blessing. That's way better than any mutual fund and maybe even better than getting in early on a IPO of a stock.
Can God double the offering you give Him? Of course He can.
Is it a guarantee that God always blesses us financially? Of course Not.
When the scriptures speak of blessing people financially, it's often times found in the book of Proverbs. The Proverbs are considered Wisdom Literature. According to the rules of bible interpretation, Wisdom is generally true, maybe even 95% true, but not a guaranteed promise. For example, God promised to save us and deliver us from sin and it's consequences if we believe in Jesus as our Lord and Savior. God promised to forgive us of our sins because of the work of Jesus on the cross. But does God promise to always bless in earthly financial ways? God's blesssings are way more creative than we can imagine, often times spiritual.
This past Sunday, I shared with our Vine family about Generosity.
Treasure Principle Key #6 – God prospers me not to raise my standard of living, but to raise my standard of giving.
How do we get started raising the standard of our giving? (2 Corinthians 8:1-15)
1. Generosity starts with the Grace of God. (vs.1, 9)
2. Generosity involves personal sacrifice. (vs.2-3)
3. Generosity is a voluntary response from the heart. (vs.4, 13-15)
4. Generosity flows from our devotion to God. (vs.5, 12)
5. Generosity excels as I grow in grace. (vs.6-7)
Proverbs 3:9 – "Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best." (The Message)
As I studied the idea of the "tithe", I was surprised to read from one commentary that the word "tithe" does not appear in the New Testament. When the concept of tithe ("tenth") is mentioned in the NT (like in Matthew 23:23-24), it's used in a negative context. In fact, the tithe is not prescribed anywhere in the New Testament. So one has to wonder whether the "tithe" is still binding for New Covenant Christians today.
Consider this: The tithe was for Israel in a day in age where there was no federal government and no form of taxation. Thus, the tithe seemed to be the minimum (10%) taxation system for the nation to carryout the religious and political duties for the country that often times found themselves wandering the desert or restored after being conquered by pagan neighbors. In other words, the NT Christian is no longer bound by the OT Tithe (legal taxation percentage for all peoples). In fact, the idea of freewill offering occurs all throughout the OT and NT.
Why should we give to God through what we term 'offering'? Not because we are required to, but because we desire to, practice the Treasure Principle and it's Keys.
Generosity is not legalistic, but it flows from our hearts that have experienced the riches of God's grace. We are generous because we recognize that God owns everything.
How much should one give back to God? The percentage that you have come to a personal conviction through prayer with God.
Final Thought: Some people say, "Can I afford to give offering?" In reality, "Can any of us afford NOT to give?"
Can God double the offering you give Him? Of course He can.
Is it a guarantee that God always blesses us financially? Of course Not.
When the scriptures speak of blessing people financially, it's often times found in the book of Proverbs. The Proverbs are considered Wisdom Literature. According to the rules of bible interpretation, Wisdom is generally true, maybe even 95% true, but not a guaranteed promise. For example, God promised to save us and deliver us from sin and it's consequences if we believe in Jesus as our Lord and Savior. God promised to forgive us of our sins because of the work of Jesus on the cross. But does God promise to always bless in earthly financial ways? God's blesssings are way more creative than we can imagine, often times spiritual.
This past Sunday, I shared with our Vine family about Generosity.
Treasure Principle Key #6 – God prospers me not to raise my standard of living, but to raise my standard of giving.
How do we get started raising the standard of our giving? (2 Corinthians 8:1-15)
1. Generosity starts with the Grace of God. (vs.1, 9)
2. Generosity involves personal sacrifice. (vs.2-3)
3. Generosity is a voluntary response from the heart. (vs.4, 13-15)
4. Generosity flows from our devotion to God. (vs.5, 12)
5. Generosity excels as I grow in grace. (vs.6-7)
Proverbs 3:9 – "Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best." (The Message)
As I studied the idea of the "tithe", I was surprised to read from one commentary that the word "tithe" does not appear in the New Testament. When the concept of tithe ("tenth") is mentioned in the NT (like in Matthew 23:23-24), it's used in a negative context. In fact, the tithe is not prescribed anywhere in the New Testament. So one has to wonder whether the "tithe" is still binding for New Covenant Christians today.
Consider this: The tithe was for Israel in a day in age where there was no federal government and no form of taxation. Thus, the tithe seemed to be the minimum (10%) taxation system for the nation to carryout the religious and political duties for the country that often times found themselves wandering the desert or restored after being conquered by pagan neighbors. In other words, the NT Christian is no longer bound by the OT Tithe (legal taxation percentage for all peoples). In fact, the idea of freewill offering occurs all throughout the OT and NT.
Why should we give to God through what we term 'offering'? Not because we are required to, but because we desire to, practice the Treasure Principle and it's Keys.
Generosity is not legalistic, but it flows from our hearts that have experienced the riches of God's grace. We are generous because we recognize that God owns everything.
How much should one give back to God? The percentage that you have come to a personal conviction through prayer with God.
Final Thought: Some people say, "Can I afford to give offering?" In reality, "Can any of us afford NOT to give?"
Monday, February 26, 2007
I didn't prepare for my sermon this week
I didn't prepare for my sermon this week... Don't cast stones at me yet! Read below.
A pastor will typically spend his days studying the scriptures. Then, the study results in a some kind of outline. Some pastors love the 3 point sermon. Some pastors like to free verse. It's almost like rap. It just happens. There is no right or wrong. It's a matter of preference. I know some pastors who wait for God to speak to them before they write their sermon. I know some pastors who prepare their sermon like a skilled strategists (usually those with Engineering backgrounds; no knock on the Engineers of the world).
How I usually prepare for my sermon throughout the week.
Typically, I'll be thinking about my sermon series months in advance. I believe in sharing the pulpit, so Pastor Steve will pinch hit for me 1-2 times a month.
Monday - Rest and Reflect, Connect with God, Serve my Family
Tuesday - Study the Passage(s)
Wednesday - Study the Passage(s), Create an Outline
Thursday - Revise the Outline, Fill in with Illustrations
Friday - Write the Sermon
Saturday - Create the Sermon PowerPoint, Revise the Sermon
Sunday Morning - Prepare to Preach the Sermon
All throughout the week, prayer is vital for any sermon preparation.
So this week, I didn't prepare for my sermon... I experienced my sermon.
We're in the fourth week of our series on Stewardship (The Treasure Principle). This week's study was on "The Roadblocks to Giving". We were seriously considering the purchase of a larger home. We're just about to make a counter-offer and purchase the home, when we realized that God was leading us to "let it go." The very sermon I was preparing for was a message from God to my wife and I. We had to seriously consider if this purchase would actually become a "roadblock to our giving." As we seeked God and His Kingdom, we heard God speak to us through the Scriptures and His people.
To hear more, go the Media Page on the Church website and listen to the Feb 25 Sermon.
His grace is sufficient,
Pastor Marcus
A pastor will typically spend his days studying the scriptures. Then, the study results in a some kind of outline. Some pastors love the 3 point sermon. Some pastors like to free verse. It's almost like rap. It just happens. There is no right or wrong. It's a matter of preference. I know some pastors who wait for God to speak to them before they write their sermon. I know some pastors who prepare their sermon like a skilled strategists (usually those with Engineering backgrounds; no knock on the Engineers of the world).
How I usually prepare for my sermon throughout the week.
Typically, I'll be thinking about my sermon series months in advance. I believe in sharing the pulpit, so Pastor Steve will pinch hit for me 1-2 times a month.
Monday - Rest and Reflect, Connect with God, Serve my Family
Tuesday - Study the Passage(s)
Wednesday - Study the Passage(s), Create an Outline
Thursday - Revise the Outline, Fill in with Illustrations
Friday - Write the Sermon
Saturday - Create the Sermon PowerPoint, Revise the Sermon
Sunday Morning - Prepare to Preach the Sermon
All throughout the week, prayer is vital for any sermon preparation.
So this week, I didn't prepare for my sermon... I experienced my sermon.
We're in the fourth week of our series on Stewardship (The Treasure Principle). This week's study was on "The Roadblocks to Giving". We were seriously considering the purchase of a larger home. We're just about to make a counter-offer and purchase the home, when we realized that God was leading us to "let it go." The very sermon I was preparing for was a message from God to my wife and I. We had to seriously consider if this purchase would actually become a "roadblock to our giving." As we seeked God and His Kingdom, we heard God speak to us through the Scriptures and His people.
To hear more, go the Media Page on the Church website and listen to the Feb 25 Sermon.
His grace is sufficient,
Pastor Marcus
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Money, Money, Money
For some strange reason, one of the earliest music groups that I listened to was "ABBA". Now, you might be thinking, "ABBA!" How old were you? Well, at that time, I was around 6-7 years old. It just so happened that one of my closest 1st grade friend was a guy named Drew Henley. His dad worked for some Laser Disc company and so he would bring Laser Discs home for the family to watch. One of the discs that we watched was "ABBA".
And still all throughout this time, I remember many of the songs. One of those songs was "Money, Money, Money." The music video was pretty simple: the ABBA singers side profiles with of course "money" in the scenes with a black background. It's almost surreal.
Money was a frequent topic of conversation from my dad. In fact, my dad pursued money with a feverish passion. I understand why. He grew up poor in the countryside parts of South Korea. He was the oldest of 5 brothers. His father was unwise with his money and eventually abandoned the family. My dad ended up working when he was only 10 years old. He knows what it means to starve and not be able to eat whatever he desired. My 5th uncle broke his wrist and because the family couldn't afford a real doctor, they put a make shift cast on him and eventually it infected his wrist and it shriveled up. Yet despite their many years of hardship, my uncle would get his PhD and become the director of a Economic Think Tank for the Korean government. My dad would move to America in 1970 and work 2 full-time jobs. He started off pumping gas, then bought a gas station. Yeah, I know, that leap seems pretty big, but once again, his pursuit of success was passionate. He then went into small business ownership: Dairy Store, Kosher Restaurant(s), Liquor Store. He would eventually become a Doctor of Oriental Medicine (Acupuncture). An example of the American Dream.
So what I learned from him was the value of hard work, the power of money and the pursuit of your dreams. In fact, when I was in high school, I was as strongly motivated to make a lot of money as well. Then, my purpose in life changed with the introduction of Jesus into my life. My father and family was greatly disappointed at my new love in life (Jesus). They wanted Him to be a hobby. Eventually, I would go on to Graduate Studies and become a pastor (since 1995).
The turning point for my father was when one day we were driving around and he said these unforgettable words, "Marcus, I realize that money isn't everything." I just about fell out of the car in shock. I was hearing these words from someone who bled money. But what I realized was that he finally met the true love of his life as well, Jesus.
We began a series on Stewardship entitled "The Treasure Principle." It's based on Randy Alcorn's book. What's powerful about the book is the testimonies of people who experienced the Treasure Principle: "You can't take it with you, but you can send it on ahead."
More to come.
What can you expect next week? I didn't prepare for my sermon (Feb19-24) this week, I EXPERIENCED my sermon... Stay tuned...
And still all throughout this time, I remember many of the songs. One of those songs was "Money, Money, Money." The music video was pretty simple: the ABBA singers side profiles with of course "money" in the scenes with a black background. It's almost surreal.
Money was a frequent topic of conversation from my dad. In fact, my dad pursued money with a feverish passion. I understand why. He grew up poor in the countryside parts of South Korea. He was the oldest of 5 brothers. His father was unwise with his money and eventually abandoned the family. My dad ended up working when he was only 10 years old. He knows what it means to starve and not be able to eat whatever he desired. My 5th uncle broke his wrist and because the family couldn't afford a real doctor, they put a make shift cast on him and eventually it infected his wrist and it shriveled up. Yet despite their many years of hardship, my uncle would get his PhD and become the director of a Economic Think Tank for the Korean government. My dad would move to America in 1970 and work 2 full-time jobs. He started off pumping gas, then bought a gas station. Yeah, I know, that leap seems pretty big, but once again, his pursuit of success was passionate. He then went into small business ownership: Dairy Store, Kosher Restaurant(s), Liquor Store. He would eventually become a Doctor of Oriental Medicine (Acupuncture). An example of the American Dream.
So what I learned from him was the value of hard work, the power of money and the pursuit of your dreams. In fact, when I was in high school, I was as strongly motivated to make a lot of money as well. Then, my purpose in life changed with the introduction of Jesus into my life. My father and family was greatly disappointed at my new love in life (Jesus). They wanted Him to be a hobby. Eventually, I would go on to Graduate Studies and become a pastor (since 1995).
The turning point for my father was when one day we were driving around and he said these unforgettable words, "Marcus, I realize that money isn't everything." I just about fell out of the car in shock. I was hearing these words from someone who bled money. But what I realized was that he finally met the true love of his life as well, Jesus.
We began a series on Stewardship entitled "The Treasure Principle." It's based on Randy Alcorn's book. What's powerful about the book is the testimonies of people who experienced the Treasure Principle: "You can't take it with you, but you can send it on ahead."
More to come.
What can you expect next week? I didn't prepare for my sermon (Feb19-24) this week, I EXPERIENCED my sermon... Stay tuned...
Sunday, February 04, 2007
The Treasure Principle
Have you ever went treasure hunting as a kid? If you were smart, you went digging with a map. You wouldn't want to dig for buried treasure in your parent's backyard.
Of course, if you recall the popular kids movie, "Goonies" then you were loving the adventure of finding a cavern of treasures.
As you grow up, your search for buried treasure turns into a pursuit for wealth. Of course, we still seek after hidden treasure in the form of a Lotto ticket. The more practical person will pursue "treasure" through the pursuit of wealth building.
What is the Greatest Treasure?
Jesus taught (Matthew 13:44 - “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.") that the greatest treasure in the world is membership in God's Kingdom. In other words, a relationship with a Holy God is the greatest treasure.
Christians lives their lives as if they've won a local bingo prize or some white elephant Christmas gift, when we've won the jackpot of all time. We didn't earn this treasure. We were given this treasure by the sacrifice of our Lord Savior Jesus Christ.
The traveler recognizes the incredible worth of his treasure and "in his joy" (right attitude) goes and "sells everything that he owns" (right actions) for the sake of this treasure.
The sacrifice of our lives and our giving pales in comparison to the sacrifice of God's Son. Is it worth the temporary sacrifice to gain the greatest treasure of all?
When we realize our greatest treasure, then we can starting living out the Treasure Principle.
The Treasure Principle: You can't take it with you, but you can send it on ahead.
Randy Alcorn teaches this biblical principle in his book, "The Treasure Principle." As I've studied this, it's a simple truth. I've always known this principle. But as I've studied it and evaluated my own lifestyle, the significance of this principle is more powerful.
It's hard enough to stay in synch with God's will. I may have heard this lesson at different times in my christian life. But when my heart and life is in synch with the hearing of God's truth, there is a powerful conviction that drives me from the inside out.
There are times when we learn about trials, but when when we're not going through a hardship, the message isn't as powerful and real. When the situation and the sermon connects, amazing things happen. God happens. God works. We are changed.
I'm excited to preach on this topic because it's something that I need to grow in.
I share this past Sunday, that my motive truly is my love for the Vine Family. I want to make sure that you know the Treasure Principle so that you can have a eternal treasures waiting for you in heaven. What is this treasure? Tough to say.
Stay tuned for more about stewardship.
Shalom
Of course, if you recall the popular kids movie, "Goonies" then you were loving the adventure of finding a cavern of treasures.
As you grow up, your search for buried treasure turns into a pursuit for wealth. Of course, we still seek after hidden treasure in the form of a Lotto ticket. The more practical person will pursue "treasure" through the pursuit of wealth building.
What is the Greatest Treasure?
Jesus taught (Matthew 13:44 - “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.") that the greatest treasure in the world is membership in God's Kingdom. In other words, a relationship with a Holy God is the greatest treasure.
Christians lives their lives as if they've won a local bingo prize or some white elephant Christmas gift, when we've won the jackpot of all time. We didn't earn this treasure. We were given this treasure by the sacrifice of our Lord Savior Jesus Christ.
The traveler recognizes the incredible worth of his treasure and "in his joy" (right attitude) goes and "sells everything that he owns" (right actions) for the sake of this treasure.
The sacrifice of our lives and our giving pales in comparison to the sacrifice of God's Son. Is it worth the temporary sacrifice to gain the greatest treasure of all?
When we realize our greatest treasure, then we can starting living out the Treasure Principle.
The Treasure Principle: You can't take it with you, but you can send it on ahead.
Randy Alcorn teaches this biblical principle in his book, "The Treasure Principle." As I've studied this, it's a simple truth. I've always known this principle. But as I've studied it and evaluated my own lifestyle, the significance of this principle is more powerful.
It's hard enough to stay in synch with God's will. I may have heard this lesson at different times in my christian life. But when my heart and life is in synch with the hearing of God's truth, there is a powerful conviction that drives me from the inside out.
There are times when we learn about trials, but when when we're not going through a hardship, the message isn't as powerful and real. When the situation and the sermon connects, amazing things happen. God happens. God works. We are changed.
I'm excited to preach on this topic because it's something that I need to grow in.
I share this past Sunday, that my motive truly is my love for the Vine Family. I want to make sure that you know the Treasure Principle so that you can have a eternal treasures waiting for you in heaven. What is this treasure? Tough to say.
Stay tuned for more about stewardship.
Shalom
Monday, January 29, 2007
TNL: Resistance
When we do God's work, we will inevitably encounter resistance, obstacles, or trials that seek to hinder us and get us off track.
One does have to wonder if the resistance is from God or from the enemy. It is possible that God may send resistance because we are seeking our own will and not God's will.
But if you know that you are seeking God's will, then the resistance we encounter is due to our pursuit of God's will.
As we see the next level...
I. Expect Resistance and Embrace the Challenge: It's bound to happen, but when it does see i
t as an opportunity to overcome and conquer for the glory of God. Personally, I love a challenge, I thrive on it.
(see Ezra 4:1-15; Nehemiah 4:1-8; Nehemiah 6; Hebrews 13:16-18)
II. Pray first, then try harder and trust in God: How do you respond? What's your gut reaction? For me, I usually panic and stress and consider all the worse case scenarios.
(see Ezra 10:1; Nehemiah 2:4-5; Nehemiah 4:4; Nehemiah 4:6, 9, 14; Nehemiah 6:9; Philippians 4:6-7)
III. Activate God's Grace and keep climbing: How do balance what God is suppose to do and what we are suppose to do? Some have a mentality of "let go and let God" and it's as if let go of the steering wheel and assume God is going to drive. Some have a mentality that we need to drive and make sure God just enjoys the ride in the backseat. I've been learning that God will do His part, and we need to active God's grace by doing our part.
(see Nehemiah 4:16-23; Nehemiah 6:15-16; Ephesians 2:8-10; James 1:19-27)
As a fairly new church plant, the next level may initially sound like it's a church strategy about how to grow our church bigger. In actuality, church growth is the fruit. Jesus never commands us to "bear fruit" in John 15, but rather he exhorts us to "remain in Him" and the spiritual result of this abiding is fruitfulness. I feel a strong conviction that it's the same way for The Vine. Everyone must remain in Christ and take their spiritual journey to the next level. That is our mission and focus for this year. I truly believe that we need to grow "Big People" for Jesus. I fully trust in whatever God's blessings are in store.
On a personal note, I've been really understanding how important it is to "do less and be more." It is so true that we are "human beings" and yet I live like a "human doing". Now consider that I am a highly driven individual that thrives off of "doing a lot." So for me to practice the discipline of "rest or sabbath", it's counter intuitive. And yet, God has designed for His people to work 6 days, and rest 1. My genetics also believes in this principle. It's as if my body was made to work 6 and to rest 1.
The next level is really about less doing and its more about being. Praise the Lord.
One does have to wonder if the resistance is from God or from the enemy. It is possible that God may send resistance because we are seeking our own will and not God's will.
But if you know that you are seeking God's will, then the resistance we encounter is due to our pursuit of God's will.
As we see the next level...
I. Expect Resistance and Embrace the Challenge: It's bound to happen, but when it does see i
t as an opportunity to overcome and conquer for the glory of God. Personally, I love a challenge, I thrive on it.
(see Ezra 4:1-15; Nehemiah 4:1-8; Nehemiah 6; Hebrews 13:16-18)
II. Pray first, then try harder and trust in God: How do you respond? What's your gut reaction? For me, I usually panic and stress and consider all the worse case scenarios.
(see Ezra 10:1; Nehemiah 2:4-5; Nehemiah 4:4; Nehemiah 4:6, 9, 14; Nehemiah 6:9; Philippians 4:6-7)
III. Activate God's Grace and keep climbing: How do balance what God is suppose to do and what we are suppose to do? Some have a mentality of "let go and let God" and it's as if let go of the steering wheel and assume God is going to drive. Some have a mentality that we need to drive and make sure God just enjoys the ride in the backseat. I've been learning that God will do His part, and we need to active God's grace by doing our part.
(see Nehemiah 4:16-23; Nehemiah 6:15-16; Ephesians 2:8-10; James 1:19-27)
As a fairly new church plant, the next level may initially sound like it's a church strategy about how to grow our church bigger. In actuality, church growth is the fruit. Jesus never commands us to "bear fruit" in John 15, but rather he exhorts us to "remain in Him" and the spiritual result of this abiding is fruitfulness. I feel a strong conviction that it's the same way for The Vine. Everyone must remain in Christ and take their spiritual journey to the next level. That is our mission and focus for this year. I truly believe that we need to grow "Big People" for Jesus. I fully trust in whatever God's blessings are in store.
On a personal note, I've been really understanding how important it is to "do less and be more." It is so true that we are "human beings" and yet I live like a "human doing". Now consider that I am a highly driven individual that thrives off of "doing a lot." So for me to practice the discipline of "rest or sabbath", it's counter intuitive. And yet, God has designed for His people to work 6 days, and rest 1. My genetics also believes in this principle. It's as if my body was made to work 6 and to rest 1.
The next level is really about less doing and its more about being. Praise the Lord.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
The Game Plan
As I've studied through Nehemiah and Ezra, I am realizing more and more about the truth that "God is faithful to bring about His Plan" through ways that are way too complicated for any one human person to coordinate.
God is the greatest administrator, director, conductor, chess player, story writer and general. I am continually blown away by the way that God coordinates His perfect plan.
When I first read Ezra and Nehemiah, it at first seemed like a great story of God's faithfulness to bring about a successful Temple reconstruction with the exiled Jews. Then, as I studied more and more, I realized that how other OT books are spin-offs of these historical books (Ezekiel, Zephaniah, Haggai, Daniel, Esther). It forced me to read and study these other books, and helps me to appreciate how complicated world history truly is and how only God can coordinate all the events to bring about a sustained Israel nation. How else would Jesus be able to come from the lien of David and fulfill the Abrahamic Covenant (Genesis 12)? Amazing! Amazing Grace! Just perfect! God you are the master story-teller.
One of my favorite movie genres is "Dramatic-Thriller" where the conclusion brings about a witty and clevey ending. For example, M. Night Shyamalan's movies have that clever twist at the end (The Village, The Sixth Sense, Signs). I also enjoy "The Game" and "The Spanish Prisoner". Those movies bring about clever endings that ties all the loose ends together and just makes anyone cry, "ingenious."
But when you read the stories of God's "Dramatic-Thrillers", they are truly ingenious because they're real. God is a genius. That's an obvious reality, but it's more so as I read the Hebrew Scriptures (OT).
This past week, I shared with the Vine family about "The Game Plan: How we are to take it to the Next Level?"
1. Spiritual Leadership: God wants some of you to step up and lead. (Ezra 1:8,11; 2:2; Nehemiah 2:17-18) - We need more spiritual leaders to step up.
2. The Playbook: God wants us to follow His playbook with vigilance and conviction.
(Ezra 3:2-3) - We need to follow God's Word because He knows the best directions to His Kingdom goals.
3. Sacrifice: God wants you to practice sacrificial stewardship to fund Kingdom causes.
(Ezra 3:4-7) - We need to grow in our stewardship responsibilities.
4. Team Effort: God wants you to be faithful role players on God’s team. (Ezra 3:8-9; Ezra 7:27-28; Ezra 3:1) - We need everyone to get in the game.
5. Celebrate & Worship: God wants us to celebrate God’s work in us and through us.
(Ezra 3:11-12; Nehemiah 6:15-16) - Let's enjoy life and celebrate together.
I realize that God's primary Game Plan for His Kingdom really involves "people." God uses people to accomplish His plans.
There are five areas
God is the greatest administrator, director, conductor, chess player, story writer and general. I am continually blown away by the way that God coordinates His perfect plan.
When I first read Ezra and Nehemiah, it at first seemed like a great story of God's faithfulness to bring about a successful Temple reconstruction with the exiled Jews. Then, as I studied more and more, I realized that how other OT books are spin-offs of these historical books (Ezekiel, Zephaniah, Haggai, Daniel, Esther). It forced me to read and study these other books, and helps me to appreciate how complicated world history truly is and how only God can coordinate all the events to bring about a sustained Israel nation. How else would Jesus be able to come from the lien of David and fulfill the Abrahamic Covenant (Genesis 12)? Amazing! Amazing Grace! Just perfect! God you are the master story-teller.
One of my favorite movie genres is "Dramatic-Thriller" where the conclusion brings about a witty and clevey ending. For example, M. Night Shyamalan's movies have that clever twist at the end (The Village, The Sixth Sense, Signs). I also enjoy "The Game" and "The Spanish Prisoner". Those movies bring about clever endings that ties all the loose ends together and just makes anyone cry, "ingenious."
But when you read the stories of God's "Dramatic-Thrillers", they are truly ingenious because they're real. God is a genius. That's an obvious reality, but it's more so as I read the Hebrew Scriptures (OT).
This past week, I shared with the Vine family about "The Game Plan: How we are to take it to the Next Level?"
1. Spiritual Leadership: God wants some of you to step up and lead. (Ezra 1:8,11; 2:2; Nehemiah 2:17-18) - We need more spiritual leaders to step up.
2. The Playbook: God wants us to follow His playbook with vigilance and conviction.
(Ezra 3:2-3) - We need to follow God's Word because He knows the best directions to His Kingdom goals.
3. Sacrifice: God wants you to practice sacrificial stewardship to fund Kingdom causes.
(Ezra 3:4-7) - We need to grow in our stewardship responsibilities.
4. Team Effort: God wants you to be faithful role players on God’s team. (Ezra 3:8-9; Ezra 7:27-28; Ezra 3:1) - We need everyone to get in the game.
5. Celebrate & Worship: God wants us to celebrate God’s work in us and through us.
(Ezra 3:11-12; Nehemiah 6:15-16) - Let's enjoy life and celebrate together.
I realize that God's primary Game Plan for His Kingdom really involves "people." God uses people to accomplish His plans.
There are five areas
Sunday, January 07, 2007
I want to take it to 'The Next Level' (2007)
2007 is the year where we challenge everyone to take it to "The Next Level".
I shared about this biblical principle this past Sunday (Jan 7) with our Church community. As I studied through the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, the compelling truth that repeats itself is the idea that "God is faithful to bless!"
God is precise about the details of history to bring about His promised blessing. If God had not been faithful to restore the exiled Jews back to Jerusalem and to rebuild the Temple and it's wall, then we would not have the benefit of Jesus dying on the cross for our sins. Everything points to the cross. That's turning point in our mankind's relationship with God.
Praise God that we don't have to go to a temple to experience God, we have God living in us (in the person of the Holy Spirit) because we are the living temples of God. And this temple is mobile and can travel the world to take God's light to the lost.
I. Remember where you've been on your spiritual journey; and be motivated because God is always faithful.
Something to think about: How did God show his faithfulness recently in your life?
II. Realize where you currently are at in your spiritual journey and seek God fervently.
Something to think about: How do we seek God fervently? What does this entail?
III. Resolve to reach Kingdom goals as we cast off for Kingdom causes.
Something to think about: What are some goals for your spiritual life one year from me? What do you envision about you one year from now?
Listening to Lately: Pastor Rob Bell's Sermon (Mars Hills Bible Church) Audio Adrenaline Lift (Album)
Happenings this Week: my beautiful wife's birthday (don't ask about her age), going back to work at LAB, studying through Ezra and Nehemiah, meeting with Cluster Leaders on Thursday, watching the National Championship game, anticipating the season premiere of "24"
I shared about this biblical principle this past Sunday (Jan 7) with our Church community. As I studied through the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, the compelling truth that repeats itself is the idea that "God is faithful to bless!"
God is precise about the details of history to bring about His promised blessing. If God had not been faithful to restore the exiled Jews back to Jerusalem and to rebuild the Temple and it's wall, then we would not have the benefit of Jesus dying on the cross for our sins. Everything points to the cross. That's turning point in our mankind's relationship with God.
Praise God that we don't have to go to a temple to experience God, we have God living in us (in the person of the Holy Spirit) because we are the living temples of God. And this temple is mobile and can travel the world to take God's light to the lost.
I. Remember where you've been on your spiritual journey; and be motivated because God is always faithful.
Something to think about: How did God show his faithfulness recently in your life?
II. Realize where you currently are at in your spiritual journey and seek God fervently.
Something to think about: How do we seek God fervently? What does this entail?
III. Resolve to reach Kingdom goals as we cast off for Kingdom causes.
Something to think about: What are some goals for your spiritual life one year from me? What do you envision about you one year from now?
Listening to Lately: Pastor Rob Bell's Sermon (Mars Hills Bible Church) Audio Adrenaline Lift (Album)
Happenings this Week: my beautiful wife's birthday (don't ask about her age), going back to work at LAB, studying through Ezra and Nehemiah, meeting with Cluster Leaders on Thursday, watching the National Championship game, anticipating the season premiere of "24"
God's Vision for The Vine Church
What is The Vine Church (VC) seeking to become? To be a Christ-Connected Community of Spirit-Empowered Catalysts in the Local and Global Communities. (John 15:1-8; Matthew 22:37-39; Matthew 28:16-20; Acts 1:8)
It is the dream of the VC to become a community of multi-national people (varying ethnicities) that is faithfully connected to Christ and to one another, and continually bearing "the fruit" of converts. (John 15) Thus, this community ought to be composed of "3-C" persons.
What is a "3-C" persons? Someone who has made Christ the primary relationship in their life, someone who is Connected to the Community of believers, and someone is who is being a Catalyst in their workplace, family, neighborhood, school and the world. The Vision of the VC has five characteristics to it.
1. Authentic Biblical Community (Real People in Relationship with a Christian Worldview)
It is the vision of The Vine to form authentic relationships that are deeply inter-connected to Christ and to one another. It is the dream of developing life-long learners that know the ancient Scriptures and can make it’s principles known. It is the dream of creating an accredited Christian Institute where any person can grow in biblical scholarship, and be equipped to be sent out as a short-term or career missionary. (John 15:1-4; 2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; James 1:19; Matthew 18:1-35; Deut 6:4-9; Acts 17:11)
2. Mosaic Community (A Church for all Nationalities, all Generations, and all Backgrounds)
It is the vision of The Vine to welcome thousands of members of any nationality into the fellowship of our church family, as we love, learn, laugh and live in peace together. The church ought to be a place for all generations, all backgrounds, and all ethnicities where unity is found in Christ. (Acts 2:42-47; Ephesians 4:1-7; Galatians 3:8-14; Galatians 3:26-28; Genesis 12:1-3)
3. Multi-site Community (Spreading the Vine across the Lands)
It is the vision of The Vine to create multi-sites for members to experience community in closer proximity so that they can have cataclysmic impact in their local community. Each multi-site congregation will become rooted with a customized staff & leadership yet unanimity shall be practiced through teaching, programs and ministry concepts. It is the vision to launch 10 sites that become church plants, and grow to be a community church. (James 1:1; Act 1:8; Acts 16:5; John 15:4-8)
4. Mission Sending Community (To Commission 70 Career Missionaries)
It is the vision of The Vine to send out 70 career missionaries all around the world with each multi-site fully supporting 7 missionary families. It is the dream of sending our members by the hundreds on short-term missions projects to every continent. It is the dream of making disciples of International Students who can go back to their nation and be catalysts for Christ. (Luke 10:1-16; Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 3:13-14; Eph 4:12)
5. Catalytic Community (Ambassadors of Christ in the local community) It is the vision of The Vine to share the Real News of Jesus Christ with the thousands of residents throughout Southern California so that the hurting, frustrated and confused can grow to be a fully devoted disciple of Jesus, and be Spirit-empowered Catalysts doing significant ministry in their social context. (Matthew 10:1:15; Luke 15:3-7; Luke 19:10; James 5:16; Rom 12:1-2)
This is Our Vision, Our Dream as we "Forsake what was not, Hope in what is to come, and Dream of what can be."
Pastor Marcus Lead Pastor of The Vine Church: A Community of Christ-Connected Catalysts
1. Join the Yahoo Group for updates. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TheVineChurch/
2. Come visit The Vine. http://www.vine-church.org/
2007 A New Year a New Theme
Friends
2007 is the year where we challenge everyone to take it to "The Next Level".
I shared about this biblical principle this past Sunday (Jan 7) with our Church community. As I studied through the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, the compelling truth that repeats itself is the idea that "God is faithful to bless!" God is precise about the details of history to bring about His promised blessing. If God had not been faithful to restore the exiled Jews back to Jerusalem and to rebuild the Temple and it's wall, then we would not have the benefit of Jesus dying on the cross for our sins. Everything points to the cross. That's turning point in our mankind's relationship with God.
Praise God that we don't have to go to a temple to experience God, we have God living in us (in the person of the Holy Spirit) because we are the living temples of God. And this temple is mobile and can travel the world to take God's light to the lost.
I. Remember where you've been on your spiritual journey; and be motivated because God is always faithful.
Something to think about: How did God show his faithfulness recently in your life?
II. Realize where you currently are at in your spiritual journey and seek God fervently.
Something to think about: How do we seek God fervently? What does this entail?
III. Resolve to reach Kingdom goals as we cast off for Kingdom causes.
Something to think about: What are some goals for your spiritual life one year from me? What do you envision about you one year from now?
Listening to Lately:
Pastor Rob Bell's Sermon (Mars Hills Bible Church)
Audio Adrenaline Lift (Album)
Happenings this Week: my beautiful wife's birthday (don't ask about her age), going back to work at LAB, studying through Ezra and Nehemiah, meeting with Cluster Leaders on Thursday, watching the National Championship game, anticipating the season premiere of "24"
2007 is the year where we challenge everyone to take it to "The Next Level".
I shared about this biblical principle this past Sunday (Jan 7) with our Church community. As I studied through the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, the compelling truth that repeats itself is the idea that "God is faithful to bless!" God is precise about the details of history to bring about His promised blessing. If God had not been faithful to restore the exiled Jews back to Jerusalem and to rebuild the Temple and it's wall, then we would not have the benefit of Jesus dying on the cross for our sins. Everything points to the cross. That's turning point in our mankind's relationship with God.
Praise God that we don't have to go to a temple to experience God, we have God living in us (in the person of the Holy Spirit) because we are the living temples of God. And this temple is mobile and can travel the world to take God's light to the lost.
I. Remember where you've been on your spiritual journey; and be motivated because God is always faithful.
Something to think about: How did God show his faithfulness recently in your life?
II. Realize where you currently are at in your spiritual journey and seek God fervently.
Something to think about: How do we seek God fervently? What does this entail?
III. Resolve to reach Kingdom goals as we cast off for Kingdom causes.
Something to think about: What are some goals for your spiritual life one year from me? What do you envision about you one year from now?
Listening to Lately:
Pastor Rob Bell's Sermon (Mars Hills Bible Church)
Audio Adrenaline Lift (Album)
Happenings this Week: my beautiful wife's birthday (don't ask about her age), going back to work at LAB, studying through Ezra and Nehemiah, meeting with Cluster Leaders on Thursday, watching the National Championship game, anticipating the season premiere of "24"
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