Out of the last 7 years of ministry, yesterday was the most overwhelming one that I've ever experienced. I was given the opportunity to preach in both services yesterday (thanks Mark), and God really did a work in my life. There are so many times while I'm speaking that the Holy Spirit gives me new insights, but yesterday was crazy. In both services, God was showing me things from His Word that I've never considered, for that matter seen, before! It was completely overwhelming.
After the evening service was over, I was totally wiped-out. As a matter of fact, I'm still ridiculously tired today. I love it when God does that, but it makes me wonder, "what have I done to deserve being used in such a way by Him?" I look back at all of the things that God has done through me, in spite of me, and I'm amazed. There have been so many times that I've done everything in power to screw things up, but God steps in and does an amazing work. I guess what's so overwhelming is that God wants to use me in spite of me. He is reminding me constantly that I'm not reaching this person or that person, or making a difference here or there. It's God doing these things through me. Talk about overwhelming...God wants to use messed-up me to spread the Gospel!
I pray that everyone involved in ministry (especially me) will always remember this: While the lessons, Bible Studies, talks, messages, plans, or ideas may come from our mouths, it's God whose using us as sounding boards for His will and message. By allowing God to overwhelm us on a daily basis, we are better prepared and equipped to share His overwhelming love and power with others.
Have a great day!
Labels:
Overwhelmed (0)
Quick Hits (0)
Busy day, so I'm going to quickly run through some stuff:
- "SHHH" Week 4 audio will be up by 5pm. You can find it at www.mlbcgreer.com/Youth-Ministry.asp
- Lock-In/Movie Night begins at 8pm. Even if you can't hang-out with us all night, come at 8pm for "The Gameplan" starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. BTW...this is a great "date" movie, so save $20 and bring her to church!
- If I can pump enough caffeine into my body to make to 4am on Saturday morning, adrenaline should kick-in from there.
- I forgot to mention that the lock-in ends at 8am.
- I really excited about preaching this Sunday! AM message will be "The Sum Is the Cross," and the PM message will be "Embracing Tragedy" (this one is fairly autobiographical)
- I really need to find a way to sneak in a 3 hour nap today! Labels:
- "SHHH" Week 4 audio will be up by 5pm. You can find it at www.mlbcgreer.com/Youth-Ministry.asp
- Lock-In/Movie Night begins at 8pm. Even if you can't hang-out with us all night, come at 8pm for "The Gameplan" starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. BTW...this is a great "date" movie, so save $20 and bring her to church!
- If I can pump enough caffeine into my body to make to 4am on Saturday morning, adrenaline should kick-in from there.
- I forgot to mention that the lock-in ends at 8am.
- I really excited about preaching this Sunday! AM message will be "The Sum Is the Cross," and the PM message will be "Embracing Tragedy" (this one is fairly autobiographical)
- I really need to find a way to sneak in a 3 hour nap today! Labels:
A Million Dollar Idea (2)
Last night, 19 of our students and leaders went bowling. We had a blast with the exception of one thing: the consequences of spending 3 hours in a smoke-filled bowling alley. Now, I know that you should expect it to be smokey, but last night was really bad. As a result, I cannot breathe this morning, and my voice is almost shot.
Considering these factors, I have conjured-up a great idea: a non-smoking/drinking bowling alley. Some may argue that this goes against everything that is the "bowling experience," but I disagree. You would still see the drunken make-out sessions by the pinball machine...wait, no drinking. You would still get to witness the two guys next to you sharing a cigarette...wait, no smoking. Ok, you would still see someone raise a beer bottle and exhale a puff of smoke when "Free Bird" is played...dang it! Wow. I just realized how much more fun it is to watch other people bowl.
Ok, so maybe its not a million dollar idea, but it sure would help me breathe a little better :) Labels:
Considering these factors, I have conjured-up a great idea: a non-smoking/drinking bowling alley. Some may argue that this goes against everything that is the "bowling experience," but I disagree. You would still see the drunken make-out sessions by the pinball machine...wait, no drinking. You would still get to witness the two guys next to you sharing a cigarette...wait, no smoking. Ok, you would still see someone raise a beer bottle and exhale a puff of smoke when "Free Bird" is played...dang it! Wow. I just realized how much more fun it is to watch other people bowl.
Ok, so maybe its not a million dollar idea, but it sure would help me breathe a little better :) Labels:
A Huge "Thank You" (0)
I wanted to say "Thank You" to all of our Student Ministry leaders. These guys are a tremendous help, and are really going out of their way to build relationships with our students. Not only that, but they have been a tremendous help with "SHHH." Not only did they lead the discussion during Week 2 (you can hear it HERE), but their input on the other weeks has been unbelieveable. They are also doing a great job leading our Peer Groups on Sunday nights. All of these guys are doing this while being in school full-time, working, or both! It's evident that they love Jesus and our students, and their examples of His love are taking root in our students. Life would be so much more difficult without them.
I know that I've said this before, but YOU GUYS ROCK!!! Labels:
I know that I've said this before, but YOU GUYS ROCK!!! Labels:
A Whole Lot of Stuff (0)
This will probably be one of the most scatter-brained posts that I've written in a while, but I have to get all of this stuff out of my head!
I'll start with Wednesday night. Week 4 of "SHHH" is shaping-up to be one of the best week's of the series. Our leaders and I have been sharing ideas about Biblical guidelines for dating, and God is really showing me some incredible stuff. The night will center around Colossians 3: 5. Paul gives us a warning signs of not only improper dating relationships, but improper relationships with Christ as well. If you're in the area, come hang-out with us on Wednesday night at 7pm!
I've really been blown away the last few weeks by the response to our latest series. Teenagers want to have an open and legitimate discussion about sex. How do I know this? I'll give you two answers: 1) the increase in attendance on Wednesday nights and 2) they've told me or one of our leaders. God has reaffirmed my belief that the church cannot remain quiet on certain issues. It's time to broach subjects that are controversial with a passion and confidence that only comes from knowing the truth, but we must do it in a loving manner. We can tell our students what the Bible says about sex until we're blue in the face, but we cannot condemn those who have succumb to sexual temptation. God has really energized me in the last few weeks, and I thank Him everyday for doing so.
My bracket is totally screwed-up. I only have 12 of my Sweet 16 teams remaining. The good news is that 7 of the Elite 8 are still alive, including my entire Final Four. Of course, I am gaining absolutely nothing from this nonsense, so who cares.
I'm still upset with myself that I allowed Dr. Epting (NGU's President) to bust my chops last week! While on campus, I tried to weasel my way into lunch with him and Ergun Caner (btw, if you've never heard this dude speak, check-out his website right now - http://www.erguncaner.com/) in the President's Dining Room. This place is like going behind the curtain into the Holy of Hollies! His response to my weaseling was, "If your wife was here, I'd invite you." What?! It's bad enough that every time I see the man he immediately asks me how Michelle is doing, and seems to care less about my current situation (I know he cares, but I'm on a roll), but now he disses me in front of faculty and students. To make matters worse, he just walked off while laughing at his joke! Touche, Dr. Epting...touche.
One more thing...I love it when God throws me curve balls while preparing a talk or message. I've been prepping Sunday night's message for over a week, and at 2pm yesterday, God told me do scrap everything. "So a week's worth of preparation lost doesn't bother you?" That's right. Whenever that happens, I know that God is steering me into His will and not my own. I will admit that I'm a little scared about where He's leading me, but I'm stoked that I know that the message will be exactly what He wants!
Wow. I really did go around the world on this one. Sorry, but now I feel like getting a little work done. Labels:
I'll start with Wednesday night. Week 4 of "SHHH" is shaping-up to be one of the best week's of the series. Our leaders and I have been sharing ideas about Biblical guidelines for dating, and God is really showing me some incredible stuff. The night will center around Colossians 3: 5. Paul gives us a warning signs of not only improper dating relationships, but improper relationships with Christ as well. If you're in the area, come hang-out with us on Wednesday night at 7pm!
I've really been blown away the last few weeks by the response to our latest series. Teenagers want to have an open and legitimate discussion about sex. How do I know this? I'll give you two answers: 1) the increase in attendance on Wednesday nights and 2) they've told me or one of our leaders. God has reaffirmed my belief that the church cannot remain quiet on certain issues. It's time to broach subjects that are controversial with a passion and confidence that only comes from knowing the truth, but we must do it in a loving manner. We can tell our students what the Bible says about sex until we're blue in the face, but we cannot condemn those who have succumb to sexual temptation. God has really energized me in the last few weeks, and I thank Him everyday for doing so.
My bracket is totally screwed-up. I only have 12 of my Sweet 16 teams remaining. The good news is that 7 of the Elite 8 are still alive, including my entire Final Four. Of course, I am gaining absolutely nothing from this nonsense, so who cares.
I'm still upset with myself that I allowed Dr. Epting (NGU's President) to bust my chops last week! While on campus, I tried to weasel my way into lunch with him and Ergun Caner (btw, if you've never heard this dude speak, check-out his website right now - http://www.erguncaner.com/) in the President's Dining Room. This place is like going behind the curtain into the Holy of Hollies! His response to my weaseling was, "If your wife was here, I'd invite you." What?! It's bad enough that every time I see the man he immediately asks me how Michelle is doing, and seems to care less about my current situation (I know he cares, but I'm on a roll), but now he disses me in front of faculty and students. To make matters worse, he just walked off while laughing at his joke! Touche, Dr. Epting...touche.
One more thing...I love it when God throws me curve balls while preparing a talk or message. I've been prepping Sunday night's message for over a week, and at 2pm yesterday, God told me do scrap everything. "So a week's worth of preparation lost doesn't bother you?" That's right. Whenever that happens, I know that God is steering me into His will and not my own. I will admit that I'm a little scared about where He's leading me, but I'm stoked that I know that the message will be exactly what He wants!
Wow. I really did go around the world on this one. Sorry, but now I feel like getting a little work done. Labels:
News for the Week (0)
This promises to be one of the busiest weeks that I've had in a while. First, it's Spring Break for Greenville County Schools! Along with the inevitable "hey, let's play basketball" texts that I'll receive, we have a few activities planned:
Tuesday - Bowling, $7 (all you can bowl for 3 hours), leave the church at 8pm, return by 12:30am
Wednesday - American Idol Results Party, free, in the Game Room after Worship
Friday - Lock-In/Movie Night, free, movie begins at 8pm, Lock-In ends at 8am
Secondly, I will have an expanded role in, out of, and around the office this week because Mark and Frieda are in Hawaii!!! Along with visits, phone calls, and other similar stuff, I'll be preaching in both services on Sunday. I must admit that I'm stoked! I love having the opportunity to speak. Here are the working titles for my messages on Sunday:
AM - "The Sum is the Cross"
PM - "They Grow-Up So Fast"
Finally, we will be exploring dating relationships this Wednesday. We're not going to tell you who you should or shouldn't date (God will handle that), but we are going to be laying-out some Biblical guidelines for dating. Once again, we have a few surprises planned, so don't miss it! Labels:
Tuesday - Bowling, $7 (all you can bowl for 3 hours), leave the church at 8pm, return by 12:30am
Wednesday - American Idol Results Party, free, in the Game Room after Worship
Friday - Lock-In/Movie Night, free, movie begins at 8pm, Lock-In ends at 8am
Secondly, I will have an expanded role in, out of, and around the office this week because Mark and Frieda are in Hawaii!!! Along with visits, phone calls, and other similar stuff, I'll be preaching in both services on Sunday. I must admit that I'm stoked! I love having the opportunity to speak. Here are the working titles for my messages on Sunday:
AM - "The Sum is the Cross"
PM - "They Grow-Up So Fast"
Finally, we will be exploring dating relationships this Wednesday. We're not going to tell you who you should or shouldn't date (God will handle that), but we are going to be laying-out some Biblical guidelines for dating. Once again, we have a few surprises planned, so don't miss it! Labels:
Passion Week Part 3 and Week 3 Podcast (0)
1) Would it have been necessary to force me to carry Jesus' cross, or would have done it voluntarily? -Matthew 27: 32
2) It's always such a comfort to know that God is with me. I can't imagine how horrible it must have felt for Jesus to know that His own Father couldn't have anything to do with Him. Thank you Jesus for doing that for me! - Matthew 27: 46
3) An open line to the throne room of God...awesome! - Matthew 27: 51
4) It's amazing that it takes the most desperate situations for us to see God at work - Matthew 27: 54
The podcast for Week 3 of "SHHH" is now available at www.mlbcgreer.com/Youth-Ministry.asp. Scroll to the bottom of the page. Labels:
2) It's always such a comfort to know that God is with me. I can't imagine how horrible it must have felt for Jesus to know that His own Father couldn't have anything to do with Him. Thank you Jesus for doing that for me! - Matthew 27: 46
3) An open line to the throne room of God...awesome! - Matthew 27: 51
4) It's amazing that it takes the most desperate situations for us to see God at work - Matthew 27: 54
The podcast for Week 3 of "SHHH" is now available at www.mlbcgreer.com/Youth-Ministry.asp. Scroll to the bottom of the page. Labels:
Passion Week Part 3 (0)
No post yesterday because it was my day off. When I came to the office this morning I remembered that it's closed for Good Friday. Guess I should have showed-up yesterday. Oops.
1) Jesus spends the majority a lot of time on the subjects of the end of the age, tribulation, etc. If these things were so important that He spent this much time talking about them, why don't we do the same? Sniff, sniff. I smell a summer series. - Matthew 24: 15-25: 13
2) I can't imagine what it will feel like to hear my Lord say "Well done." - Matthew 25: 14-30
3) The perfect representation of sin...so much destruction from such a little act, for such small gain. - Matthew 26: 14-16
4) God has taught me so much about how to pray in the last few months. Of course, Jesus is the perfect example. - Matthew 26: 36-46
5) If a mob of people were coming to arrest, beat, humiliate, and murder me, I know I wouldn't be this calm. Wow. That's the evidence of submission to God's will for your life. - Matthew 26: 47-56
6) Peter and I are so much alike. Why is it that I can be so close to Jesus one minute, but follow Him at a distance the next? - Matthew 26: 58
7) Keeping your mouth shut can be as powerful as opening it. - Matthew 26: 62-63 Labels:
1) Jesus spends the majority a lot of time on the subjects of the end of the age, tribulation, etc. If these things were so important that He spent this much time talking about them, why don't we do the same? Sniff, sniff. I smell a summer series. - Matthew 24: 15-25: 13
2) I can't imagine what it will feel like to hear my Lord say "Well done." - Matthew 25: 14-30
3) The perfect representation of sin...so much destruction from such a little act, for such small gain. - Matthew 26: 14-16
4) God has taught me so much about how to pray in the last few months. Of course, Jesus is the perfect example. - Matthew 26: 36-46
5) If a mob of people were coming to arrest, beat, humiliate, and murder me, I know I wouldn't be this calm. Wow. That's the evidence of submission to God's will for your life. - Matthew 26: 47-56
6) Peter and I are so much alike. Why is it that I can be so close to Jesus one minute, but follow Him at a distance the next? - Matthew 26: 58
7) Keeping your mouth shut can be as powerful as opening it. - Matthew 26: 62-63 Labels:
Passion Week Part 2 (0)
Before I get into some more thoughts from the Passion Week, I have some exciting news: we're going to extend our series on sex ("SHHH") for one more week! We've had some parents, and students, ask us to address dating guidelines a little more in-depth. God gave us the green light, so the series will be extended through April 2nd. Back to what God is showing me this week:
1) It's amazing how much I can be like these guys. Why does God have to smack me in the face to get my attention? - Matthew 21: 45
2) This is so sad. God presents the opportunity for salvation to all, but so few actually accept it. - Matthew 22:14
3) How often do I "act" like a Christian instead of just "being" one? This is the basis of that principle. - Matthew 22:37-39
4) Just follow Jesus' example and be a servant (BTW... Sammy wrote a great blog about on this subject) - Matthew 23: 11-12
5) I need to make it a priority to live an authentic life. - Matthew 23: 13-36
6) Wow. How much of this stuff is already going on? If we're not ready for Christ's return, we better start getting ready. - Matthew 24: 5-14 Labels:
1) It's amazing how much I can be like these guys. Why does God have to smack me in the face to get my attention? - Matthew 21: 45
2) This is so sad. God presents the opportunity for salvation to all, but so few actually accept it. - Matthew 22:14
3) How often do I "act" like a Christian instead of just "being" one? This is the basis of that principle. - Matthew 22:37-39
4) Just follow Jesus' example and be a servant (BTW... Sammy wrote a great blog about on this subject) - Matthew 23: 11-12
5) I need to make it a priority to live an authentic life. - Matthew 23: 13-36
6) Wow. How much of this stuff is already going on? If we're not ready for Christ's return, we better start getting ready. - Matthew 24: 5-14 Labels:
Passion Week (0)
Sunday marked the beginning of what the church commonly refers to as the "Passion Week." This runs from "Palm Sunday" through Jesus resurrection on Easter. This year, I've felt led to study this week in depth while it is taking place. I've always wondered what it was like for those who were in Jerusalem while these events were actually taking place, and I want to get as good of an understanding as I can this side of Heaven. Here are a few thoughts that I've had so far:
1) Jesus knows who is willing to serve Him even when they're not expecting to hear from Him - Luke 19: 28-34
2) Regardless of what someone may say to you, never stop worshiping Jesus - Luke 19: 37-40
3) Am I this concerned about Greer, SC? - Luke 19: 41-44
4) I don't want this to happen to me...I want to be fruitful - Matthew 21: 18-19
Just a few thoughts. I'll share more as the week progresses. One reminder: Week 3 of "SHHH" will take place tomorrow night at 7PM. We've seen incredible response the last two weeks, and expect God to do some amazing stuff this week as well. As cool as last week was, expect this one to be even better! Labels:
1) Jesus knows who is willing to serve Him even when they're not expecting to hear from Him - Luke 19: 28-34
2) Regardless of what someone may say to you, never stop worshiping Jesus - Luke 19: 37-40
3) Am I this concerned about Greer, SC? - Luke 19: 41-44
4) I don't want this to happen to me...I want to be fruitful - Matthew 21: 18-19
Just a few thoughts. I'll share more as the week progresses. One reminder: Week 3 of "SHHH" will take place tomorrow night at 7PM. We've seen incredible response the last two weeks, and expect God to do some amazing stuff this week as well. As cool as last week was, expect this one to be even better! Labels:
Podcast Update (0)
In order to help you Mac folks, we've made yet another change to our podcast. The files are now available in mp3 format. You should be able to dowload those files and have Itunes convert them. This is the easiest, and smallest, way to make the audio available to everyone. Weeks 1 and 2 are now available. Please let me know if you have any issues. BTW...we're over 110 downloads of Week 1-PRAISE GOD!!!
www.mlbcgreer.com/Youth-Ministry.asp Labels:
www.mlbcgreer.com/Youth-Ministry.asp Labels:
"Shhh" Week 2 (0)
Week 2 of our "SHHH" series was great. Seven of our leaders answered questions, and shared their views on relationships, dating, and sex. It was incredible. The students were engaged the entire time. When I say entire time, I mean close to 50 minutes of discussion! That's right. Teenagers stayed connected for 50 minutes.
I want to say thanks to everyone who participated. God really blessed our efforts, and I'm going nuts over the reactions that I've received from the students. I can't wait for week three.
The new podcast is available for download. In order to accommodate our Mac friends, this week's audio is in wav format. This makes the file a little larger, so I'm working on compressing the file. I'm in the process of downloading some compression software, so hopefully we can shrink the download time a little bit. You can find the audio at www.mlbcgreer.com/Youth-Ministry.asp. Labels:
I want to say thanks to everyone who participated. God really blessed our efforts, and I'm going nuts over the reactions that I've received from the students. I can't wait for week three.
The new podcast is available for download. In order to accommodate our Mac friends, this week's audio is in wav format. This makes the file a little larger, so I'm working on compressing the file. I'm in the process of downloading some compression software, so hopefully we can shrink the download time a little bit. You can find the audio at www.mlbcgreer.com/Youth-Ministry.asp. Labels:
"Me" Church (2)
While deleting junk from my computer this morning, I ran across a video that I had used early last year. The title of the video is "Me Church." The concept is simple, yet powerful. I want try to describe it, but I will attempt to post it later today. This was actually an interesting find because of something that I heard yesterday.
I happened to overhear (I wasn't trying to hear it, but the person talking was loud enough for the entire place to hear everything that was said) an interesting conversation. Three people were obviously discussing their church homes, when the really loud person said the following: "I want to know what happened to the country church that I grew-up in. Now the music is loud, the preaching is totally different, and there are all of these new people there. I just want my church back."
Needless to say, I had a hard time not interrupting. ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!! The church is not supposed to be about you, it's supposed to be about Christ. After all, He did die for it. The church's goal should not be to do whatever is possible to keep those inside it walls happy (it is important to meet needs, and I am all for that), but to do whatever is possible to reach a lost world. If that means loud music, then crank it up! If that means preaching that is focused on topics that meet needs for different people, then preach it (This statement in no way means that I am for the "prosperity gospel." I'm talking about preaching that is relevant-marriage, raising kids, discipleship, etc.-while standing firm on what God says in His Word)! If it means having to get to know new people because God is changing their lives, then get uncomfortable!
What's sad is that this person's mindset is shared by churches all over our country. It's time that we put ourselves aside, and start looking to God for the direction of His church. All too often, Christians are more worried about their agendas than God's will. It's time that we start taking Paul's attitude in 1 Corinthians 9: 19-23. We must be willing to adapt how we share the message (not the message itself) in order to reach others. Is it so bad to meet new people? Is it so bad to listen to a band instead of a choir? Is it so bad to preach the Word instead of spoon-feeding people what they want to hear? For centuries, the church has had to change its approach to sharing the Gospel. Why should the church be any different now?
After all of this, God has challenged me with this question: Brian, where do you fall into all of this? Wow. The more I think about it, the more I realize that I like comfort too. God, help me be uncomfortable when it comes to reaching a lost world for You. Labels:
I happened to overhear (I wasn't trying to hear it, but the person talking was loud enough for the entire place to hear everything that was said) an interesting conversation. Three people were obviously discussing their church homes, when the really loud person said the following: "I want to know what happened to the country church that I grew-up in. Now the music is loud, the preaching is totally different, and there are all of these new people there. I just want my church back."
Needless to say, I had a hard time not interrupting. ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!! The church is not supposed to be about you, it's supposed to be about Christ. After all, He did die for it. The church's goal should not be to do whatever is possible to keep those inside it walls happy (it is important to meet needs, and I am all for that), but to do whatever is possible to reach a lost world. If that means loud music, then crank it up! If that means preaching that is focused on topics that meet needs for different people, then preach it (This statement in no way means that I am for the "prosperity gospel." I'm talking about preaching that is relevant-marriage, raising kids, discipleship, etc.-while standing firm on what God says in His Word)! If it means having to get to know new people because God is changing their lives, then get uncomfortable!
What's sad is that this person's mindset is shared by churches all over our country. It's time that we put ourselves aside, and start looking to God for the direction of His church. All too often, Christians are more worried about their agendas than God's will. It's time that we start taking Paul's attitude in 1 Corinthians 9: 19-23. We must be willing to adapt how we share the message (not the message itself) in order to reach others. Is it so bad to meet new people? Is it so bad to listen to a band instead of a choir? Is it so bad to preach the Word instead of spoon-feeding people what they want to hear? For centuries, the church has had to change its approach to sharing the Gospel. Why should the church be any different now?
After all of this, God has challenged me with this question: Brian, where do you fall into all of this? Wow. The more I think about it, the more I realize that I like comfort too. God, help me be uncomfortable when it comes to reaching a lost world for You. Labels:
Week 2 (1)
While praying about and putting together the topics for "Shhh," God told me something cool: "I don't want you to do the talking during Week 2." In response to this, I began praying about who God wanted to speak. He showed me that He wanted all of leaders to speak at one time.
No, I don't mean what some of you "religion" guys may be thinking (I kid, I kid). Let me explain. Week 2 is going to consist of a Q and A between me and our leaders regarding sex, dating, and relationships. Hence, the week's title, "Straight From the Horses' Mouths." I'm really excited about this for two reasons: 1)I've always wanted to host some type of talk show and 2)our students will be hearing "real life" stories from the people who hang-out with them on a weekly basis. From all indications, our leaders are stoked as well. How do I know this? They've told me (you were expecting some crazy response weren't you).
If you're a student reading this, listen up: you don't want to miss Wednesday night! If you're a parent reading this, listen up: you need to get your student(s) here Wednesday night, and you're more than welcome to stay as well! I can't wait to see what God has in store. Labels:
No, I don't mean what some of you "religion" guys may be thinking (I kid, I kid). Let me explain. Week 2 is going to consist of a Q and A between me and our leaders regarding sex, dating, and relationships. Hence, the week's title, "Straight From the Horses' Mouths." I'm really excited about this for two reasons: 1)I've always wanted to host some type of talk show and 2)our students will be hearing "real life" stories from the people who hang-out with them on a weekly basis. From all indications, our leaders are stoked as well. How do I know this? They've told me (you were expecting some crazy response weren't you).
If you're a student reading this, listen up: you don't want to miss Wednesday night! If you're a parent reading this, listen up: you need to get your student(s) here Wednesday night, and you're more than welcome to stay as well! I can't wait to see what God has in store. Labels:
Randomness (0)
I have so much stuff running through my head this morning that I can't concentrate on anything. I have to get it out, so I'm gonna unload on you.
-Great meeting with some of our Sunday School teachers last night. I feel much better about the direction of this ministry after we got to talk. If you guys are reading this, remember that God honors effort. Thanks for your willingness to serve!
-Day light savings time is the devil's tool for keeping people out of church!
-Week 2 of "Shhh" is gonna be awesome! I'll explain more tomorrow.
-We're already getting positive reviews from our initial Worship on Wednesday Podcast. BTW...if you live in Illinois, and you downloaded the podcast, please let us know who you are.
-If you download last week's talk, be warned: For some unknown reason, I scream at the beginning, so turn down your speakers/earbuds/headphones.
-I'm still laughing about the whole butt-crack/advertising/cologne stuff. Confused? Click on the link above :)
-We're going to be hosting the "Anti-Prom" in May. This thing is going to be nuts! I just got off the phone with some folks about some of the stuff that's going to take place, and I've got two words for you...FREAKIN' HILARIOUS!!!
-Clemson made free throws to win a game...HALLELUJAH!
-6AM Bible Study on the Monday after we "spring forward" is tough to do.
-I've failed to give credit regarding some of our material for "SHHH." Doug Fields and Simply Youth Ministry have some incredible resources on sex. "Best Sex Ever" has been a huge help.
-I'm so hungry right now that I could eat the back-end off of a horse. Unless you're from Williamston you probably won't understand. Most of those folks probably won't understand either. I'm just weird. Labels:
-Great meeting with some of our Sunday School teachers last night. I feel much better about the direction of this ministry after we got to talk. If you guys are reading this, remember that God honors effort. Thanks for your willingness to serve!
-Day light savings time is the devil's tool for keeping people out of church!
-Week 2 of "Shhh" is gonna be awesome! I'll explain more tomorrow.
-We're already getting positive reviews from our initial Worship on Wednesday Podcast. BTW...if you live in Illinois, and you downloaded the podcast, please let us know who you are.
-If you download last week's talk, be warned: For some unknown reason, I scream at the beginning, so turn down your speakers/earbuds/headphones.
-I'm still laughing about the whole butt-crack/advertising/cologne stuff. Confused? Click on the link above :)
-We're going to be hosting the "Anti-Prom" in May. This thing is going to be nuts! I just got off the phone with some folks about some of the stuff that's going to take place, and I've got two words for you...FREAKIN' HILARIOUS!!!
-Clemson made free throws to win a game...HALLELUJAH!
-6AM Bible Study on the Monday after we "spring forward" is tough to do.
-I've failed to give credit regarding some of our material for "SHHH." Doug Fields and Simply Youth Ministry have some incredible resources on sex. "Best Sex Ever" has been a huge help.
-I'm so hungry right now that I could eat the back-end off of a horse. Unless you're from Williamston you probably won't understand. Most of those folks probably won't understand either. I'm just weird. Labels:
Breaking the Silence (0)
We finally broke the silence regarding our "SHHH" series on Wednesday night. When the intro video came on on said "sex in church," everyone sat-up in their seats. It was awesome! We really had a great night as we introduced the next four weeks to our students.
The title of the series stems from the attitude that a lot of churches take on the subject, "Shhh. It's not our place to talk about sex. Let's change the subject and sing Blessed Assurance." BTW, that's not a knock on Blessed Assurance; it happens to be one of my favorite songs. Anyway, we broke our silence as we talked about what we hoped everyone would discover during the series.
I could spell all of that stuff out for you, but it would be easier for you to just listen (unless you've already heard it, in which case, you already know what I said). You can listen to our first worship podcast by clicking on the link at the bottom of the post. You can save it to your computer or listen to the audio stream. For you Ipod folks...the file is saved in wma format. Itunes should convert it when you add it to your library.
"SHHH" Week 1 Labels:
The title of the series stems from the attitude that a lot of churches take on the subject, "Shhh. It's not our place to talk about sex. Let's change the subject and sing Blessed Assurance." BTW, that's not a knock on Blessed Assurance; it happens to be one of my favorite songs. Anyway, we broke our silence as we talked about what we hoped everyone would discover during the series.
I could spell all of that stuff out for you, but it would be easier for you to just listen (unless you've already heard it, in which case, you already know what I said). You can listen to our first worship podcast by clicking on the link at the bottom of the post. You can save it to your computer or listen to the audio stream. For you Ipod folks...the file is saved in wma format. Itunes should convert it when you add it to your library.
"SHHH" Week 1 Labels:
Contradicting Scripture (0)
I don't have a desire to debate political positions or opinions; however, this post may start heading in that direction. If it does, I sincerely apologize.
Let me begin by saying that I believe that the Bible is the perfect Word of God. It is without error. While written by man, each and every word was inspired by God. While many would disagree, I have never found any place in scripture that is contradictory to itself. Here's is an example. During a question-answer time with voters, Democratic Presidential hopeful Barack Obama made the following statement:
"I believe in civil unions that allow a same-sex couple to visit each other in a hospital or transfer property to each other," he said, referring to unions that grant all the legal benefits of marriage, minus the name. "I don't think it should be called marriage, but I think that it is a legal right that they should have that is recognized by the state. If people find that controversial, then I would just refer them to the Sermon on the Mount, which I think is, in my mind, for my faith, more central than an obscure passage in Romans. That's my view. But we can have a respectful disagreement on that."
I must admit that the whole "civil union" thing didn't blow me away. What did was the reference to scripture as a means of supporting his stance. The Sermon on the Mount can be found in Matthew 5-7, while the "obscure" reference is in Romans 1: 26-32. I've spent the last couple of days trying to discover what part of the Sermon on the Mount he is referring to, and the only passage that I can find is Matthew 7: 1-6 where Jesus talks about judging others. To use this text as a basis for arguing for civil unions is ridiculous. Jesus actually teaches that marriage is the union of man and woman in Mark 10: 6-9.
So what's the big deal? Here's my answer: God does not contradict Himself! There have been, are currently, and will forever be individuals who will manipulate scripture for their own good. That is why Christians need to spend time in God's Word. Don't just read it...study it! We must be able to defend our faith, as well as protect it from Satan's attacks. Without being firmly grounded in the Bible, it is easy for someone succumb to this vicious notion that God says one thing here and another there. Remember, He is the same yesterday, today, and forever!
Whew! It felt good to get that off my chest. If you're interested, you can read the entire article here. Labels:
Let me begin by saying that I believe that the Bible is the perfect Word of God. It is without error. While written by man, each and every word was inspired by God. While many would disagree, I have never found any place in scripture that is contradictory to itself. Here's is an example. During a question-answer time with voters, Democratic Presidential hopeful Barack Obama made the following statement:
"I believe in civil unions that allow a same-sex couple to visit each other in a hospital or transfer property to each other," he said, referring to unions that grant all the legal benefits of marriage, minus the name. "I don't think it should be called marriage, but I think that it is a legal right that they should have that is recognized by the state. If people find that controversial, then I would just refer them to the Sermon on the Mount, which I think is, in my mind, for my faith, more central than an obscure passage in Romans. That's my view. But we can have a respectful disagreement on that."
I must admit that the whole "civil union" thing didn't blow me away. What did was the reference to scripture as a means of supporting his stance. The Sermon on the Mount can be found in Matthew 5-7, while the "obscure" reference is in Romans 1: 26-32. I've spent the last couple of days trying to discover what part of the Sermon on the Mount he is referring to, and the only passage that I can find is Matthew 7: 1-6 where Jesus talks about judging others. To use this text as a basis for arguing for civil unions is ridiculous. Jesus actually teaches that marriage is the union of man and woman in Mark 10: 6-9.
So what's the big deal? Here's my answer: God does not contradict Himself! There have been, are currently, and will forever be individuals who will manipulate scripture for their own good. That is why Christians need to spend time in God's Word. Don't just read it...study it! We must be able to defend our faith, as well as protect it from Satan's attacks. Without being firmly grounded in the Bible, it is easy for someone succumb to this vicious notion that God says one thing here and another there. Remember, He is the same yesterday, today, and forever!
Whew! It felt good to get that off my chest. If you're interested, you can read the entire article here. Labels:
A Li'l Bit and Other Podcasts (0)
In my recent book review post, I mentioned the name Jonathan McKee. This guy has a great mind for youth ministry. He has an incredible website, www.thesource4ym.com, that you should really check-out. One of the newest features is a "podcast devotional." The site is www.alilbit.com. This thing is aimed at getting teenagers into God's Word on a regular basis. I'm going to add the link under points of interest, and encourage you to let a teenager know about it.
In other podcast news, Wednesday night will be the first recording of our talks during worship. This will be a great way for parents to reinforce what is talked about each week. Not only that, but the worship podcasts will be a great witnessing tool for all of our youth. All they have to do is direct their friends to the site, where they can download the podcast to their Ipods, mp3 players, or computers. We will also be recording a monthly podcast that will involve me and some of our leaders discussing the current "state of affairs" with the youth ministry. We'll talk about our current and upcoming Wednesday series, Sunday School, Peer Groups, events, and more. If nothing else, I imagine that it will be good for a laugh or two.
Stay tuned. More about all of this on Friday. Labels:
In other podcast news, Wednesday night will be the first recording of our talks during worship. This will be a great way for parents to reinforce what is talked about each week. Not only that, but the worship podcasts will be a great witnessing tool for all of our youth. All they have to do is direct their friends to the site, where they can download the podcast to their Ipods, mp3 players, or computers. We will also be recording a monthly podcast that will involve me and some of our leaders discussing the current "state of affairs" with the youth ministry. We'll talk about our current and upcoming Wednesday series, Sunday School, Peer Groups, events, and more. If nothing else, I imagine that it will be good for a laugh or two.
Stay tuned. More about all of this on Friday. Labels:
Thank God for Monday (0)
What?! Are you serious? "Thank God for Monday?"
Yes. That's what I said. While Sunday is considered the beginning of the week (at least by most Christians), Monday is the dreaded beginning to the "work week." Most of the time I hate Mondays. It's so hard for me to get motivated and moving after an exhausting day at church. I know what you're thinking, "That's what you get paid for," or "It should be a joy to be at church." While both of those are valid responses, they are stupid. Yes, I get paid to be at church, and it is a joy to be there, but I am totally wiped-out by the time I get home on Sunday night. Dang, I'm totally off the subject, so I'll move on.
This Monday is totally different than the others because I'm finishing preparation on my talk for Wednesday night. This week begins our "SHHH" series. I am so excited about the next four weeks that I'm about to bust! I can't wait to see what God does with our youth during the month of March.
We've done a "180" as far as promotion goes with this series. We've been very secretive about the topic. I'm sure that sounds weird, but we felt that we could really build some excitement by using a creative video trailer. For the last two and half weeks our church has seen the video of total of 5 times, and people are buzzing! Outside of our leaders (who have known for a while), only one person has guessed what the series is about. This only adds to the excitement.
I've decided to post the video for you to see. If you have a guess about the topic, comment and we'll see if you're right (leaders don't count, so don't give it away). The correct answer will be revealed on Thursday. Good luck!
Labels:
Yes. That's what I said. While Sunday is considered the beginning of the week (at least by most Christians), Monday is the dreaded beginning to the "work week." Most of the time I hate Mondays. It's so hard for me to get motivated and moving after an exhausting day at church. I know what you're thinking, "That's what you get paid for," or "It should be a joy to be at church." While both of those are valid responses, they are stupid. Yes, I get paid to be at church, and it is a joy to be there, but I am totally wiped-out by the time I get home on Sunday night. Dang, I'm totally off the subject, so I'll move on.
This Monday is totally different than the others because I'm finishing preparation on my talk for Wednesday night. This week begins our "SHHH" series. I am so excited about the next four weeks that I'm about to bust! I can't wait to see what God does with our youth during the month of March.
We've done a "180" as far as promotion goes with this series. We've been very secretive about the topic. I'm sure that sounds weird, but we felt that we could really build some excitement by using a creative video trailer. For the last two and half weeks our church has seen the video of total of 5 times, and people are buzzing! Outside of our leaders (who have known for a while), only one person has guessed what the series is about. This only adds to the excitement.
I've decided to post the video for you to see. If you have a guess about the topic, comment and we'll see if you're right (leaders don't count, so don't give it away). The correct answer will be revealed on Thursday. Good luck!
