Wow, What a Night!

If you were among those who participated in WOW last night at CrossPoint you were blessed, weren’t you? For those of you who did not take part, you missed an incredible experience. It was a special evening!

We ordained Bryan Haskins to the Gospel Ministry, and it was, indeed, a very special occasion. Bryan’s mother, sister, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends were present. He even had a dear friend drive in from Memphis, only to turn around and drive back late last night. He also had an uncle and aunt from Montgomery drive to Birmingham for the event.

On Tuesday several of the ordained men of CrossPoint met with Bryan for an ordination council. The meeting was sacred, to say the least. As the Deacon Selection Team Leader, Tim Tidwell, commented, “It was a God moment.” Last night was more of the same; it was a carry over from Tuesday night.

Watching Bryan and his band, Third Floor, lead us in worship was a keynote moment for me. Those guys are extremely talented, and they used their talent for God’s glory. What made the worship even more meaningful was witnessing how Bryan followed the leadership of the Holy Spirit. That was a direct answer to something I prayed earlier in my morning quiet time.

Bryan and I have a tremendous working relationship. We meet every Monday to plan, pray and prepare for worship. He and I believe it is important for us to become a team not only in worship but also in planning worship.

I know this is going to come as a real shocker, but there are times I will change things in between worship celebrations or even in the middle of worship. As a result of making too many changes recently, the Lord revealed to me how I may be dictating the course of worship more than allowing the Holy Spirit to do so. Thus, in order to get out of the way, I have started praying that Bryan would follow the Holy Spirit rather than me. Last night was a marquee moment in Bryan following God’s Holy Spirit. You could see God working in Him and through Him from the beginning of worship until the end. It was amazing.

Of course, Bryan’s testimony and the laying on of hands were both special. And, I must not forget the great fellowship so many of us enjoyed during the outdoor reception. Everything about last night was good, wasn’t it?

I would be curious to hear your comments about the evening. What did you gain from being there and from participating in worship? Let me know what you think.

God is Everything

Before calling it quits last night from a long day, I completed a book I started reading last week. And, I am glad I did.

I would be curious to hear if the following story speaks to you as it did me.

Many years ago a famous violinist died. Leaving behind no family members, there was no one to whom he could bequeath his Stradivarius. An auction was summarily convened, in part, to sell the instrument. It was eventually purchased by another violinist. He paid twenty thousand dollars for the violin, a sizeable income in its day.

Shortly thereafter the new owner of the Stradivarius announced that he would play a concert on his new violin. When the evening arrived the concert hall was filled to capacity. People were waiting in breathless anticipation. At just the right moment he walked out on the stage with nothing but his violin and he began to play a composition of Paganini. He held his audience spell-bound. His technique was flawless. His tone was exquisite. At the conclusion of the final note, the audience instantaneously jumped to their feet and roared with applause. He bowed, simply, and walked off the stage. A few seconds later, with the applause still thundering, he walked back on stage, took his violin by its neck, raised it over his head and smashed it on a nearby piano bench, shattering it into a thousand pieces. He then walked off the stage. The audience was horrified. They were stunned. A moment later a second man walked out on stage and stood before the people. They became very quiet as he spoke these words: “The violin on which the maestro has just performed his first selection, the same violin that he has just destroyed, was but a twenty dollar violin. He will now perform the rest of the concert on the twenty-thousand dollar Stradivarius.”

What was the point he was attempting to make? The genius is never in the violin. It is always in the violinist. And the same is true for the preacher, teacher, soloist, musician, VBS worker, etc. At best, he is but a twenty dollar violin. But music can be heard when he is taken up in the hands of the Heavenly Violinist.

We do not worship the rod of Moses, the trumpet of Gideon, or the slingshot of David. Such would be grievous expressions of misdirected worship. But such is also the case when the preacher rests his confidence in the power of his own abilities. “What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, even as the Lord gave opportunity to each one” (1 Corinthians 3:5). The man is nothing. God is everything.[1]

A few pages earlier Azurdia quotes Spurgeon’s thoughts about the preacher and his preaching of the gospel:

The gospel is preached in the ears of all; it only comes with power to some. The power that is in the gospel does not lie in the eloquence of the preacher; otherwise men would be converters of souls. Nor does it line the preacher’s learning; otherwise it would consist in the wisdom of men. We might preach till our tongues rotted, till we should exhaust our lungs and die, but never a soul would be converted unless there were mysterious power going with it—the Holy Ghost changing the will of man. O Sirs! we might as well preach to stone walls as to preach to humanity unless the Holy Ghost be with the word, to give it power to convert the soul.

Here is my take on the abovementioned story and quote. Whether you are a preacher or a teacher, a musician or a soloist, a sound tech or a media tech, a Bible study teacher or a Vacation Bible School leader, you are nothing and God is everything. God will have no competitors. You cannot simultaneously glorify yourself while you glorify God. God will only use you when you recognize you are only an instrument of righteousness in His hands. The instrument is not what is valuable. The value is found by what the instrument produces in the hands of Almighty God.

[1] Arturo G. Azurdia, III, Spirit Empowered Preaching: Involving the Holy Spirit in Your Ministry (Mentor Imprint, Great Britain), pp. 146 – 147.

The Birmingham Islamic Society Advertisement

How many of you read the following advertisement in the Birmingham News on Sunday, May 27?

Paid Advertisement

“Who so ever kills a soul unless for a soul (i.e., for legal retribution for murder) or for corruption done in the land (i.e., that requiring death penalty), it shall be as if he has killed all mankind, and who so ever saves the life of one, it shall be as if he had saved the life of all mankind,”
(Qur’an 5:32)

The Birmingham Islamic Society affirms and reiterates clearly that those who commit acts of terror, murder and cruelty in the name of Islam are not only destroying innocent lives, but are also betraying the values of the faith they claim to represent. No Injustice towards Muslims can ever justify the massacre of innocent lives, and no act of terror will ever serve the cause of Islam. We repudiate and dissociate ourselves from any Muslim group or individual who commits such brutal and un-Islamic acts. We refuse to allow our faith to be held hostage by the criminal actions of a small minority of Muslims acting outside the teachings of both the Qur’an and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad and the prophets who came before him, peace be upon them all.

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for God, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, God is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed God is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.
(Qur’an 4:135)

Birmingham Islamic Society

1810 25th Court South

Birmingham, AL 35209

(205) 879-4247

So, what is your impression?

Allow me to express a few of my reactions.

First, I accepted the apology at face value. I received it as genuine and sincere.

I certainly appreciate the Birmingham Islamic Society’s attempt to take a stand against terrorism which hides under the guise of Islam. Although not entirely forceful, their strongest statement declared, “We repudiate and dissociate ourselves from any Muslim group or individual who commits such brutal and un-Islamic acts.”

Additionally, I reminded myself I must be cautious to critique the apology. Therefore, I should take it as just that, a sincere statement. That is my first impression.

After reading it a second time, I formed a few other responses.

Next, I asked why now?

Why is the Birmingham Islamic Society apologizing now? What prompted the apology? Did they apologize before today? If so, when did they apologize? The advertisement makes it sound as if they had apologized before—The Birmingham Islamic Society affirms and reiterates. If they have apologized before now, when did they first express regret? I do not recall such a confession, although that does not mean they have not apologized before Sunday. Again, I asked myself “why did they apologize today.”

Next, I asked why did they not apologize specifically for 9-11?

Why did they not mention the 9-11 act of terrorism? We can assume that is what the Birmingham Islamic Society was referring to, yet one cannot be sure since the ad did not refer to it expressly. Do they accept responsibility for these acts of terror? I think the advertisement would have carried much more force if it had referred to 9-11 directly.

Then, I asked what are the boundaries or ramifications of this apology? Does this apology include the persecution the Global Islamic Jihad terrorists take out on those who receive Christ as Lord and Savior in Muslim nations (see www.persecution.com)? Additionally, does this advertisement include the Muslim acts of terror worldwide—the murder of school children in Russia, the bombing of a train in Madrid, Spain; the suicide bombings in public squares, restaurants and other public places; the rape, murder and beheadings of people in Darfour?

Also, I asked what are the leaders of The Birmingham Islamic Society or any other Islamic Society doing to confront the radicals that have highjacked the Muslim religion? Do they realize that those who commit mass murder in the name of Islam are not just a few fringe elements? Sure, they apologized today, yet what are they doing tomorrow to confront the terrorists? What are they doing to rid the world of terrorism that has its roots in the Islam religion?

Finally, I asked would the advertisement be more effective if the Birmingham leaders issued a fatwa instead of an apology?

A fatwa is an Islamic religious ruling, a scholarly opinion on a matter of Islamic law. Osama bin Laden issued a fatwa in 1998, saying that any American, whether Muslim or not, should be killed. Due to that edict thousands of innocent souls have paid the ultimate price of their life since then. Isn’t it time for the leaders of Islam to issue a fatwa against terrorism?

There is so much more on my mind. I better stop.

Isn’t it interesting that I would ruthlessly evaluate the admission? Perhaps I would be wise to return to my first instinct and accept it as fair and honest.

I would be curious, however, to hear from you. What do you think of the advertisement?

The Story of Amazing Grace

I know many of you saw the movie Amazing Grace when it was released earlier this year. For those who did not see the movie in the theaters, please rent it immediately. And, I know many more of you know the story behind song. Even if you do or do not know the story of Amazing Grace, I encourage you to check out this worshipful video that will make you appreciate the song that much more. Trust me, when I say you will be inspired when you watch it.

Taylor, You Make Me Proud!

Today is a difficult day for me. Today my son, Taylor, graduates from Pinson Valley High School.

I have written enough about my son on my daily blog for you to know already how proud I am of him. Taylor is such a fine young man. Yes, we’ve had our moments, as do all parents, yet through it all he still makes us proud.

I began my morning by glancing through a very special Bible that sits on my credenza in front of me. Today I looked for and found the following journal entry:

August 30, 1989
9:59 PM
Eight days after Taylor was born Vonda and I held a dedication service for him—"You shall not delay to offer from the fullness of your harvest and from the outflow of your presses. The firstborn of your sons you shall give to me” (Exodus 22:29).

I remember that evening very well. We were living in a small, two-bedroom farmhouse on the outskirts of Hattiesburg, MS. The addition of Taylor to our family made that house very small.

Vonda wanted Taylor to sleep in a crib in our room his first few weeks in this new world. It was my job to retrieve him from his crib, change his diaper, place him in front of his mother for his feeding and then return him to the crib. Vonda performed the most important job by feeding him. That particular night, before returning him to his crib, I laid Taylor across our bed, and read the passage from Exodus 22:29. Then Vonda and I literally gave Taylor over to the Lord. The significance of that night was that it was his eighth day of life.

My eyes are welling up with tears even now while reflecting on that moment. It was a solemn occasion in our young married life. Little did I realize 17 years ago what that dedication service would entail today.

We voiced to the Lord He could do anything He wanted to do with our son. We acknowledged the tremendous responsibility He had given us. We prayed for the blood of Jesus Christ to protect Taylor. We literally placed Taylor in the hands of God. We admitted we were only stewards of his life, not owners. God owned Taylor, we were the parents God selected to teach and train Taylor.

I know my days of parenting Taylor are nowhere near complete. Vonda and I still have many challenges and tests coming our way. And, I still look forward to teaching him new things about life and about God. However, I can say without reservation, that we believe our young son is one of the finest men we know. He is a devoted follower of Christ. He is learning to love the Lord His God with all his heart, soul, mind and body more and more each day. He is polite. He has a good work ethic. He is studious, and he has a good start on what we believe will be a very successful life. Sure, his mother’s stubborn streak occasionally flares up in a conversation, but we still love him. Yes, he periodically says or does something disrespectful. Yet we still love him and pray God’s best over him.

Tonight my son takes another big step in life as he crosses over from being a high school student toward becoming a college student. Tonight he takes the next road that will lead him closer to young adulthood.

To say his mother and I want God’s best for him would be no small exaggeration. To say Vonda and I expect the best from him would an understatement. Today, all I want to say is that I love my son and I am proud of him. His mother and I are, among all parents, most blessed.

God bless you, Taylor. You make me proud.

In Our Own Strength

This week I am reading Arturo G. Azurdia’s book, Spirit Empowered Preaching: Involving the Holy Spirit in Your Ministry. Instead of saying I am going through the book, I believe the book is going through me.

The author begins chapter 2 with the following quote:

I believe that the greatest impediment to the advancement of the gospel in our time is the attempt of the church of Jesus Christ to do the work of God apart from the truth and the power of the Spirit of God. Like the disciples of old, we are powerless, in and of ourselves, to accomplish the ‘great works’. The declaration of Jesus remains trued to this day: ‘apart from Me you can do nothing’ (John 15:5).

Azurdia nails it; moreover, he nails us, the church. We are powerless, today. We are attempting to the work of God in our own strength.

Later in that same chapter Azurdia adds:

Rarely are seminarians taught to pray and fast and weep for the subjective and internal illumination of the Holy Spirit in correspondence with their diligent efforts in the sacred text.

I get it. I hear the author loud and clear. God has my attention. I earnestly believe that is why the Lord has me wrestling with the daily components of repenting and believing in my sanctification.

As I have already written several times before these last two weeks: if we are saved by repenting and believing, then are we not also sanctified by repenting and believing?

I am convinced that my salvation is all of God and none of me. God saved me through His Son Jesus Christ. I did not and cannot save myself. That is why Paul said:

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6

In this brief sentence Paul teaches me three facts about my salvation:

God initiates my salvation—that he who began a good work in you God
sustains my salvation— will bring it to completion God

guarantees my salvation— at the day of Jesus Christ.

Additionally, I am convinced if God saved me, then God will also sustain me through His Son Jesus Christ. God provides the energy, effort and endurance necessary for me to live for Christ. In that same letter to the church of Philippi Paul instructs us with these words:

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.
Philippians 2:12-13

Notice Paul teaches us to “work OUT your own salvation” not to “work FOR”. No one can work FOR their salvation; those who are saved can only work OUT their salvation.

This phrase “work out” could be used in many ways. It could be used to talk about “working out a math problem until it is solved” or “working in a field” so it is ready for the greatest possible harvest. It is to work on something in order to produce a result or a harvest.

Note also how we are to “work out our salvation”. We are to do it with “fear and trembling”. Why “fear and trembling”? I think it has to do with realizing who God is and who we are. When we have a proper understanding of our sinful nature compared to God’s totally perfect, and utterly separate nature, our natural response is that of fear and trembling.

Finally, we should note who is working in us. Paul said, “for it is God who works in you”. Again, I believe Paul is teaching our salvation is all of God, and none of us. Additionally, I believe an equal and just as powerful argument could be made that our sanctification is all of God, and none of us. If that is true, then how are we to “work out our salvation”? I believe the answer is found in ongoing repentance and increasing faith. It is only when we as children of God recognize how unworthy we are compared to how worthy He is, that we find the true meaning of continuous brokenness. Additionally, it is only when we as children of God recognize how powerless we are compared to how powerful He is, that we find the true meaning of increasing trust.

And that leads me back to Azurdia’s belief that “the greatest impediment to the advancement of the gospel in our time is the attempt of the church of Jesus Christ to do the work of God apart from the truth and the power of the Spirit of God.” If that is true, and I have no reason to believe it is not true, then what is the answer? I believe the answer is found in repenting and believing, for that is where the church will find her power to do the greater works of God.

Feeling Dirty?

Last week I blogged about Starbuck’s “The Way I See It” advertising campaign. On Monday, I received the following email from CrossPointer Lisa Gray:

I was intrigued by the Starbucks blog you posted last week. I took several classes at UAB on propaganda and public persuasion that is constantly surrounding us. I try to be conscious of the advertisements I am exposed to on a daily basis.

Anyway, while I was washing my hair this week, I noticed the message on my conditioner bottle. The front of the bottle says, "Feeling Dirty? Slip into something silky." I thought that was a little inappropriate until I flipped the bottle around and looked at the back which said, "Blonde hair as dull as a virgin... daiquiri? Add a shot of sexy." Talk about stunned. I'm not sure if it's because I'm getting older or because I'm a mom now, but I was pretty shocked that this was on a bottle of shampoo. Whether SunSilk was making a sexual reference or a reference about drinking alcoholic beverages, I'm not certain. I simply wish I could take a shower without having to worry about some type of advertisement telling me what I have to do to fit in!

Welcome to the new age of advertising. More than just selling a product, advertisers are now selling an agenda. For Starbucks the agenda is anti-God. For SunSilk the agenda is sex.

Two years ago Vonda and I spent a weekend in New Orleans (pre-Katrina). During our stay in the Big Easy I watched an offensive ad for Orbits travel on the television. You’ve seen the commercial, where two people compete for travel arrangements in a game show format. The ad typically pits two business travelers together or two families vying to secure flight deals the fastest. One contestant uses Orbits, while the other uses a phone book. Of course the Orbits traveler always wins the game.

What made this particular ad so distinct was that it placed a family of four against two gay men. Needless to say, I was shocked. At first I did not believe my eyes. Later on that weekend, the commercial ran again, and this time I was sure Orbits was promoting homosexuality. Since then I have never seen the commercial in our market. Yet I am confident I saw it that weekend in New Orleans.

Again, I think we live in an age where more than products are being promoted. So are agendas. Lisa thanks for the email. Who knows what we will find out there next. Let me know of any of advertising propaganda you encounter.

Two Pressing Questions

I have discovered my Monday morning run typically sets the pace for the remainder of my week. It is during this run I usually align my schedule and sort my thoughts.

This morning my thoughts were dominated by two pressing questions. These two questions continue to linger in my mind the more I study my salvation through Jesus Christ.

During the first few minutes of my run, when I am usually warming up my pace, I asked myself how much humility is enough humility?

Can a man humble himself enough before Almighty God? When a man humbles himself enough before God, would he ever know it? What can a man do to humble himself more than he already has? How is humility measured? What is humility?

After miles one and two I asked myself a similar question: how much faith is enough faith?

Jesus said all I needed was faith the size of a mustard seed? Does that mean a little faith goes a long way? If a little faith goes a long way, how far would much faith go? Can a man believe enough in Almighty God? When a man believes enough in God, would he ever know it? What can a man do to believe more than he already has? How is faith measured? What is faith?

As I neared the end of my run, I settled on these answers. One, a man can NEVER humble himself enough before God. Two, a man can NEVER have enough faith.

I am convinced more and more that ongoing repentance and increasing faith are two definite signs of salvation every believer and follower of Christ must possess. Without repentance and faith we cannot be born again. Without repentance and faith we cannot live the born again life Christ called us to live. Sure, there are other attributes children of God possess that point to their salvation. I am convinced however, without true brokenness for one’s sin and complete trust in God Almighty, no one can live the Christian life.

As you start your week, I encourage you to begin each day by repenting and believing.

Sgnarte, btu itrsineetng!

My favorite uncle, Luke Henley, from Knoxville, Tennessee, sent me the following email this morning. I breezed through it, so I guess my brain is really strange.

See if you can read this.

fi yuo cna raed tihs, yuo hvae a sgtrane mnid too Cna yuo raed tihs? Olny 55 plepoe out of 100 can. i cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Azanmig huh? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt!

So, what do you think? Is your brain strange?

A Reminder to Pray for our Troops

Watch this and then tell me what you think.

While watching it again today I am reminded that two CrossPointers and a CrossPoint guest family will be leaving for Iraq in early June. Please remember to pray for CrossPointers Todd (Pam) Jerrell and Joseph Fulmer (Gina) Fulmer and for a CrossPoint guest Bryan (Jenni) Sparks.

Before leaving today’s blog, watch the video one more time. The second time through was more inspiring for me than the first.

Starbucks, “The Way I See It” Campaign

Have you heard or read about Starbuck’s “The Way I See It” campaign. It’s been news now for almost a year, yet recently it has made resurgence in its offensiveness.

The Seattle Times reports:

Starbucks says it was hoping to inspire old-fashioned coffee-house conversations when it introduced a campaign this year featuring the words of notable Americans on its coffee cups.

"The Way I See It" campaign does not set out to take a political stand but rather to encourage discourse, Starbucks spokeswoman Audrey Lincoff said.

"If you think back to the history of the old coffee houses, before the Internet, these were places to converse," she said. "That's part of what the coffee culture has been for a century or more."

Lincoff said the company does not characterize the personalities quoted on its coffee cups as liberal or conservative, but rather as a diverse group of artists, musicians, educators, activists and athletes.

That sounds innocent, doesn’t it? Yet there is more. Note this “diverse” quote printed on one of their coffee cups:

“Heaven is totally overrated. It seems boring. Clouds, listening to people play the harp. It should be somewhere you can’t wait to go, like a luxury hotel. Maybe blue skies and soft music were enough to keep people in line in the 17th century, but Heaven has to step it up a bit. They're basically getting by because they only have to be better than Hell.” –Joel Stein, columnist for the Los Angeles Times.

If that does not offend you, perhaps this quote will:

"Why in moments of crisis do we ask God for strength and help? As cognitive beings, why would we ask something that may well be a figment of our imaginations for guidance? Why not search inside ourselves for the power to overcome? After all, we are strong enough to cause most of the catastrophes we need to endure." – Bill Schell, a Starbucks customer from London, Ontario, Canada.

You must give Starbuck’s credit, however. They did include a Rick Warren quote on one of their paper mugs:

“You are not an accident. Your parents may not have planned you, but God did. He wanted you alive and created you for a purpose. Focusing on yourself will never reveal your purpose. You were made by God and for God, and until you understand that, life will never make sense. Only in God do we discover our origin, our identity, our meaning, our purpose, our significance, and our destiny.” – Dr. Rick Warren, author of "The Purpose-Driven Life.

Of course, this quote was met with some complaints from the public. Check out these two responses:

"I fully believe that it's an inspirational and thought-provoking comment, but I am not a Christian, and I don't appreciate having God's Plan preached to me via my coffee cup. It's one thing to read about someone's point of view, but it's quite another to read a blatantly religious statement informing me that my purpose is to serve God." – Denice Paxton, Santa Ana, California.

I did not know coffee cups could preach!

Again, here is another objection:

"It is when Mr. Warren lets the reader know that they are nothing until they have accepted God as their creator that I find offense with. ... Despite the disclaimer that his comment may not align with company policy, I am disappointed that such a powerful organization would allow these thoughts to be disseminated. Jeers to you, Starbucks, for allowing Mr. Warren to be one of your series commentators." - Lisa Tennenbaum, San Francisco

So, what is your response? I have a few.

First, why can’t Starbucks just sell coffee? Wait, I know why. Starbucks has an agenda, and so do many other of today’s businesses. It is not enough to sale a product; to be successful you must also promote a worldview. If the church is going to remain relevant, we better wake up and smell the coffee (pun intended!). Businesses today have two purposes—make money for the owners all the while promulgating their political views.

Next, this is a great marketing ploy. Imagine the number of people who will purchase some Starbucks coffee just to see what is printed on their cup. It would be interesting to see how this attempt affects their sales. Note also that I am prompted to write something about it in my blog. The campaign must be working because it is stirring quite a buzz.

Also, what do you think would happen if Starbucks printed something derogatory about Muslims, Allah or Mohammed? I think the answer is obvious: the ACLU would be in an uproar. Or better yet, what do you think the ACLU would do if a company promoted God and His Gospel on its containers in stores? Let me answer my own question. This would be offensive, of course. Once again, the church better wake up. There is a new persecution sweeping America, and the bulls-eye is fixed on Christianity. It’s kosher to denigrate Christianity or those who have faith in God.

I write all that to ask, how should we as believers respond?

I have three answers.

First, we should not be surprised. This trend is only going to increase the more debase our society becomes. There are a growing number of individuals who have disdain for God and for God’s people. Put away your shock and realize the world we live in today is a world that is against God and anti-Christian.

Second, I do not think protests work. I do not think it is effective for us to boycott Starbucks, and that is what some Christian leaders are encouraging other believers to do. Instead, we should use these adulterated opportunities to engage people in conversation about the truth. I, for one, would welcome the opportunity to discuss with someone why I believe in the Eternal, Omnipotent, Holy and Sovereign God. Who knows, they may just be born again by God’s Holy Spirit during the discourse.

Finally, we should not be afraid. Sometimes we Christians sound fearful whenever controversy arises. Jesus promised that persecution would come. Today our persecution is verbal. Tomorrow it may be worse. Whatever forms our persecution takes, we must respond with courage and faith. Let’s never be afraid to express our faith as well as our disagreement with those who try to disparage what we believe.

I am curious to hear your thoughts.

Blog Interruption

I interrupt today’s blog about the seniors of Hewitt- Trussville High School rolling the streets of Trussville to comment on Jerry Falwell’s death.

Say what you want about Jerry Falwell—positive or negative—he was an influential man. Perhaps the greatest measure of his influence would be measured when he swayed much of the American public to elect Ronald Reagan as president in 1980. Many agree that Reagan was elected thanks in large part to the Moral Majority, which was organized and led by Falwell.

My grandfather, Charles Henley, was a huge supporter of Dr. Falwell, his church, Thomas Road Baptist, and his college, Liberty University. Papaw pleaded with every one of his grandchildren to matriculate at Liberty. On a shelf above my computer is one of my grandfather’s favorite Bibles he purchased from The Old Time Gospel Hour television ministry also sponsored by Dr. Falwell.

I cannot say I always agreed with Dr. Falwell’s methods. His involvement in politics often caused me consternation. And, sometimes his method of preaching the Gospel struck me as strange. (I am sure many that attend CrossPoint have formed the same opinion about me). However, I never doubted his faithfulness to Christ and his family. Falwell always appeared to me even through his public persona as being a godly man who loved his wife, children and grandchildren. For that, and several other things, I respected him.

Al Mohler was asked to write an article about Dr. Falwell for Newsweek. The article is well-written, as is anything the President of the Southern Baptist Seminary writes. What is more astonishing than the article, however, is the comment section provided by the readers.

Click here to read what others say had to say about Falwell (and Mohler).

It is obvious Dr. Falwell was both revered and reviled. Such is the case when you take a stand for Christ.

We should pray for those who have so much hatred in their heart for Dr. Falwell. I guess it shows us what kind of persecution he lived with as a preacher of the gospel. After reading just a few of the comments, I now respect Dr. Falwell even more.

I would like to hear your impressions of Jerry Falwell.

Roll Job

I know I probably should not blog about this, but here I go anyway.

Did any of you see the roll job the Hewitt Trussville Class of 2007 pulled off Sunday night and Monday morning in front of the high school and for two miles past the school on Trussville Clay Road? I know this is class custom, and that the graduating seniors do it each year. But I believe this is the best roll job I have ever witnessed since I lived in Birmingham.

When I drove through there Monday morning heading to my morning run there were still a few seniors out in their cars and trucks finishing the job. I measured the roll job for three miles. There were hundreds of rolls of toilet paper everywhere. It was such a good job my car had toilet paper dangling from the antenna after driving through the maze.

If you have not seen it, you must make that drive sometime today before the rain comes and turns it into an unsightly mess. That is, messier than what it already is.

I know it will be a pain in the whazoo for the neighbors to clean up, but you still have to give the students credit. They did it right. It was a professional job.

While running I reflected on some past roll jobs from my life. My best effort occurred when I was the Student Minister at Temple Baptist. On the week we welcomed our new pastor, Dr. Gary Berry, I decided to greet him with a welcome gift.

Some of the staff members were already intimidated by Dr. Berry. He was a quiet and very serious man. In order to break through his serious side I decided to roll his office.

The night before the first staff meeting with our staff, I invited three favorite students of mine—two of whom are now pastors—to meet me at his office in order to roll it. And roll it, we did. We creamed his office. We rolled everything—his desk, his chair, all of the furniture. We stuck roll after roll of paper through his ceiling tile. We rolled his paintings. We rolled his trash can. We rolled everything in his office. We even rolled his closet.

The next morning the secretaries were astonished. They could not believe someone would do this to our new pastor. How audacious. My secretary buzzed me about mid-morning. (That was the time I usually arrived at the office). She informed me that Dr. Berry and the Executive Pastor wanted to see me in his office. I honestly thought that was my last day of employment at Temple Baptist.

When I looked through his office door, I could not help but giggle deep down inside. I could hear the two men conversing but I could not see them. They moved some of the toilet paper to the side and motioned for me to step in the room. With a look of consternation on his face, Dr. Berry said, with his mouth grimacing like Clint Eastwood’s, “Brother (long pause, very long pause), this is the greatest roll job I have ever seen!”With that I gave myself a standing ovation. Everyone else gasped with a sigh of relief. Perhaps I was not going to lose my job. My new boss just gave me kudos for trashing his office.

After everyone settled down from the nervous laughter, Dr. Berry added, “You have one hour to get this office clean. And you cannot ask any of the janitors to help you.”

One hour later his office was spotless.

Wow, what a memory.

Now you know why I thought the class of 2007 did a great job rolling the roadway.

A few summers ago my children jumped into the fray rolling yards. They thought it was fun until our yard started to get creamed every weekend. One particular weekend it was rolled twice—once on Friday and again on Saturday. One of my more astute neighbors asked, “Ryan, whatever you are preaching sure ain’t settling too well at CrossPoint.”

And here is the conclusion to today’s blog—rolling yards (and offices) is fun stuff, until it comes home to your own yard.

By the way, Dr. Berry said he found toilet paper in his office for several weeks even after I cleaned. The best moment was when a piece of T.P. dropped from the ceiling during a counseling session.

I know this is not a very spiritual blog today, but I thought we needed a break from the serious subjects I had been hitting lately.

Let me know what you think of the roll job. Feel free also to share your prized attempt at rolling.

Principles of Marriage

For the church to be a more effective witness in the world, we must treat the vow and covenant of marriage with much greater respect. That is why I concluded my message Sunday morning with a list of principles for marriage. Take a look at these principles again today and ask yourself how marriage measures up.

Marriage is of God. God created marriage. God designed marriage. Marriage is of God.

Marriage is for life. God’s plan for marriage is simple—one man, one woman, one lifetime.

Marriage is for a man and a woman to enjoy. Marriage is not for a man and a man, or a woman and a woman, or a human and an animal. When God created man and woman He called them Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve.

Marriage is not for everyone. Some people are better off not to marry. Paul teaches this in 1 Corinthians 7, where he gives instruction to the church about marriage. And I might add, for those who have been married more than once, it might be in your best interest to take a 20-year sabbatical before ever considering the prospect of marriage again.

Marriage demands total commitment. Before deciding to marry you must ask yourself if you are prepared to make a lifelong commitment of holy matrimony to this individual. There is no room for estrangement, separation, divorce or remarriage. Marriage demands total commitment.

Marriage is supremely sacred. The marriage bond a husband and a wife share is one designed by God. God ordained marriage, and we should treat it with the utmost reverence and respect.

Marriage is not so much about happiness, as it is about holiness. I know of a counselor who says most married couples are happy less than 50% of the time. If that is true, and I can see how it is, then what is it that keeps those marriages together? It is the commitment the two people share in helping one another become more like Christ.

Finally, and most importantly, the purpose of marriage is to honor and glorify God. In the same way the church must live in such a way to honor and glorify God, every married couple that claims to be truly devoted to the Lord should live to honor and glorify God. Remember, as Paul was looking for a living illustration of what a marriage should look like he compared it to the relationship the church shares with Jesus Christ (see Ephesians 5:21-33).

Three Mothers

I enjoyed Mother’s Day with three of my favorite mothers—my wife, my mother and my mother-in-law. We cooked out burgers and enjoyed a relaxing afternoon visiting on my screen porch.

All three women are so much the same, and yet in other ways they are quite different. While watching these three beautiful women interact with my children yesterday I identified some common traits they each share. I also identified a distinct trait that separates one from the other.

Love, kindness, compassion, and affection are just a few of the specific traits these special mothers have in common. They also share a common devotion to the Lord. I can personally say each mother is a woman of great faith. And, without question, each mother is truly devoted to my children.

The trait I admire most in my wife, Vonda, is that she is INVOLVED. Vonda is totally engaged in the world of my children. She knows their every need, fear, and dreams. She also knows much about their friends, which is critically important to guiding your children in the ways of the Lord. When my children need something they go to their mother first, because they know she can or will try to meet that need even if it means sacrificing her own wants first.

The trait I admire most in my mother-in-law, Doris, is that she is a GIVER. Nana lives so sacrificially for my family and so many others. She willingly gives so much to my family. Every time we visit with Nana she is either bringing something to our house she thinks we need or she is giving us something she wants us to enjoy. I often pray for the same kind of generous spirit she possesses.

The trait I admire most in my mother, Alice, is that she is an ENCOURGAGER. My mother definitely possesses the gift of encouragement. I can go to her with a heavy burden, and in just a few minutes she’s given me a new perspective for the load. She has always been that way. And when I am down or struggling with a decision, I know I can go to my mother for the encouragement and support I need.

I am a blessed man to have these three loving mothers in my life. They set a good example for other women to follow. They set a good example for me to follow.

I am curious, what one trait do you most admire about your mother. I would enjoy reading your comments.

Repentance and Faith

I am still wrestling with the intrigue of my salvation. And, I am still wrestling with Conrad Mbewe’s signs of salvation. Three days ago I blogged about Mbewe’s two definite signs of salavation—ongoing repentance and faith, true faith in the living God.

While surfing the web this morning, a fellow blogger introduced me to a timely quote about those keynote traits. The quote is from a Charles Spurgeon sermon. When I read it, I shouted because it was more affirmation of what the Lord Jesus Christ continues to teach me about my salvation through Him.

Here is the Spurgeon quote. Repentance and faith are highlighted for my emphasis:

Now, the repentance that sinks a man low as hell is of no use except there is faith also that lifts him as high as heaven, and the two are perfectly consistent one with the other. A man may loathe and detest himself, and all the while he may know that Christ is able to save, and has saved him. In fact, this is how true Christians live; they repent as bitterly as for sin as if they knew they should be damned for it; but they rejoice as much in Christ as if sin were nothing at all. Oh, how blessed it is to know where these two lines meet, the stripping of repentance, and the clothing of faith! The repentance that ejects sin as an evil tenant, and the faith which admits Christ to be the sole master of the heart; the repentance which purges the soul from dead works, and the faith that fills the soul with living works; the repentance which pulls down, and the faith which builds up; the repentance that scatters stones, and the faith which puts stones together; the repentance which ordains a time to weep, and the faith that gives a time to dance— these two things together make up the work of grace within, whereby men’s souls are saved. Be it, then laid down as a great truth, most plainly written in our text, that the repentance we ought to preach is one connected with faith, and thus we may preach repentance and faith together without any difficulty whatever.

That is a beautiful reality of the Christian life, isn’t it?

I just do not think we can ever submit ourselves enough to the Lord Jesus and His will for our lives. Neither can we trust in Him enough.

I remember years ago hearing Chuck Swindol preach about the kind of man God uses. His entire message was built around this theme: the only man God uses is a broken man.

I know that statement may be hard to swallow, but it is true. It is the not the popular or the strong or the influential and or the eloquent the Lord uses. It is the broken and the contrite and the humble that are used by God. Neither is it the rich or the persuasive or the religious God uses, but it is the faithful, those who trust Him in all circumstances.

My message to you this week is to humble yourself and trust Him.

The Mystery of My Salvation

Salvation is a mysterious thing; at least for me it is mysterious.

Salvation was apparently a mysterious thing for a Pharisee named Nicodemus. The Apostle John records a time when Nicodemus approached Jesus in the night. In the conversation Jesus reveals a major tenet of the mysterious nature of our salvation:

Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him." Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God."
John 3:1-4

Unless one is born again he cannot see the king…that is an inconceivable statement, isn’t it? It is so peculiar that the Bible records…

Nicodemus said to him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?"
John 3:4

Next Jesus provides an astounding insight into Nicodemus’ inquiry:

Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.' The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit."
John 3:5-8

The mystery of salvation is this: SALVATION IS A WORK OF GOD.

Physical birth is a result of physical activity; spiritual birth is a result of spiritual activity. The wind blows where it wishes, the Holy Spirit of God works wherever He wishes. We cannot see the wind but we can see the result of the wind. In the same way, we cannot see God’s Holy Spirit, but we can see the result of the work of the Holy Spirit. The resulting work of God’s Holy Spirit is salvation; that is, being born again.

Again, Nicodemus probes:

Nicodemus said to him, "How can these things be?"
John 3:9

Again, Jesus teaches:

Jesus answered him, "Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things? Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony. If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.

It is at this point Nicodemus’ attention is turned to spiritual things. And the spiritual thing is the work and salvation of Christ. In the same way the serpent was lifted up on a staff in the desert to deliver the Israelis, Christ must be lifted up on a cross to deliver the world. Again, it is more mystery and intrigue.

This world cannot comprehend the unique nature of Christ’s salvation. That is why the Bible says,

The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one. "For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?" But we have the mind of Christ.
1 Corinthians 2:14-16

Even though the world cannot understand these things, through God’s Holy Spirit we can understand them, or at least begin to comprehend these great truths.

The unfathomable nature of my salvation through Jesus Christ mesmerizes me. I am fascinated by my salvation through Jesus Christ. I am humbled by the privilege of being born again.

How do you explain your salvation through Jesus Christ? I would be intrigued to hear your responses.

Does God Exist?

How many of you watched the Nightline Face Off last night between the atheists and Christians? I usually do not stay up that late, but since I arrived home after the news I decided to remain awake long enough to watch it.

For those of you who did not see it, you can click here to watch Kirk Cameron and Ray Comfort, who represented Christianity, debate two atheists, Brian “Sapient” and a woman who goes by the name Kelly.

Cameron and Comfort are the leaders of evangelistic/apologist ministry called The Way of the Master. Perhaps you have seen some of their broadcasts on cable television where they witness to people on the streets. Brian “Sapient” and Kelly are the leaders of the atheistic organization The Rational Response Squad.

I have been reading about The Rationale Response Squad over the last year or so. A pastor friend introduced me to their website, www.blasphemychallenge.com.

WARNING: IT IS A WICKED SIGHT AND SOME OF THE WORDS YOU WILL SEE AND HEAR WILL BE OFFENSIVE TO YOU. I have hesitated placing this site on my blog due to its profane content. I advise you take a deep breath before you view their webpage. It will send chills down your spine to watch many teens and young adults literally blaspheme the Holy Spirit on the web. It is a sad, sad site. And it is a pitiful commentary on the day in which we live.

I have a few observations from the debate.

First, I was surprised that a debate about the existence of God was narrowed down to a two-part, highly edited, fifteen minute television segment. Perhaps they will show more of the debate in the weeks to come. Although I do not have any justification for believing that by the way the broadcast ended.

A fifteen minute video segment arguing the existence of God really should not surprise me, however. We live in an age of instantaneous information. If God cannot be discussed in 15 minutes or less, then there is no need to argue His existence.

Second, Brian “Sapient” and Kelly were noticeably frustrated with Cameron and Comfort. Some of the atheists in the crowd appeared to be equally irritated. At times it was if the atheist were trying to convert the crowd to atheism, and if memory serves me correctly, the Nightline interviewer Martin Basher implied the same for both sides of the debate. Why would an atheist be troubled by someone’s belief in God? What does it matter to them whether or not I acknowledge God? If God does not exist, those who believe in Him should not be of a great concern.

Third, I thought it was interesting the contest was held at Calvary Baptist Church in midtown Manhattan. I thought debates were supposed to be hosted at a neutral site. I think this gave the Christians a decided advantage. Additionally, the site selection caused me to ask where you would hold a debate that would give atheists an advantage. I guess a public university would be a suitable site for a pro-atheistic agenda.

Next, I was grief-stricken for the atheists. Nothing they said surprised me. The argument between atheists and Christians is as old as Christianity. And, the debate will continue. However, my heart ached for Brian “Sapient” and Kelly. Their appearance was that of rebellion. To be candid, they were angry and so were many of the atheists in the crowd. And, to put it more bluntly, it was obvious God had handed them over to a debased mind.

I think both Brian and Kelly should be troubled today. There is no estimating how many God-fearing followers of Christ are praying for those two today. Now would that not be amazing if one or both of them repented of their sin today and received Christ because of the work of the Holy Spirit.

You will note that I have placed Brian’s last name is in quotes. Although they do not put the quotes around his name on the webpage, they did place the quotes around his last name on the television screen last night. Apparently this is not his actual name. And why did the woman go by the name Kelly. Again, take note of the deception associated with the atheists.

The word “sapient” is a synonym for the word wise. Brian and Kelly appeared to be anything but wise last night. Again, their outward aggravation with Cameron and Comfort validated their imprudence. And some of their responses were not historically accurate, which gave credence to more of their illusory ways.

Finally, and most importantly, if you listen closely to the debate you will hear “Sapient” acknowledge the existence of God in the middle of a confrontation. As many pagans are prone to do, in a sentence of exasperation “Sapient” exclaimed, “Oh my God!” Does that not prove the existence of God? If God does not exists then why would you not say, “Oh my nothing!”? Instead, “Sapient” admitted there is a God by calling on his name in the debate.

I would be curious to hear your response to the debate or to the aforementioned “Blasphemy Challenge” webpage.

Performing to Please God

I am still dwelling on salvation this week.

Allow me to preach for a minute about salvation. The many CrossPointers who read this blog should be familiar with these thoughts.

Salvation is all of God and none of us. We are not saved by what we DO for God; we are saved by what Christ DID for us. We are saved by God’s grace and by what He did for us through Jesus Christ. There is no other way to be saved. If we are saved by what we do or by what we do combined with what Christ did for us, then salvation is based on works. The Bible is very clear—salvation is not by works, so that no one may boast.

With that truth in mind, I must ask this question: if we are not saved by our performance, then why do we, as believers, revert back to performance to please God in our Christian life?

While wrestling with this question today, I am reminded of Martin Luther’s timely comment about salvation:

People don't earn God's approval or receive life and salvation because of anything they've done. Rather, the only reason they receive life and salvation is because of God's kindness through Christ. There is no other way.

Many Christians are tired of hearing this teaching over and over. They think that they learned it all long ago. However, they barely understand how important it really is. If it continues to be taught as truth, the Christian church will remain united and pure — free from decay. This truth alone makes and sustains Christianity. You might hear an immature Christian brag about how well he knows that we receive God's approval through God's kindness and not because of anything we do to earn it. But if he goes on to say that this is easy to put into practice, then have no doubt he doesn't know what he's talking about, and he probably never will. We can never learn this truth completely or brag that we understand it fully. Learning this truth is an art. We will always remain students of it, and it will always be our teacher.

The people who truly understand that they receive God's approval by faith and put this into practice don't brag that they have fully mastered it. Rather, they think of it as a pleasant taste or aroma that they are always pursuing. These people are astonished that they can't comprehend it as fully as they would like. They hunger and thirst for it. They yearn for it more and more. They never get tired of hearing about this truth.

I don’t know about you, but I yearn more and more each week to learn more about my salvation through Jesus Christ. One result of this desire is that I try to preach more and more each week about our salvation through Jesus Christ. Just for this week, this is what I have learned: if we are saved by what Christ DID for us, then we should live by what Christ DID for us.

WOW!

Salvation is on my Mind

I’ve got salvation on my mind this week. It is on my mind due in large part to a conference I attended last week.

My friends Ron Ethridge and Buddy Gray attended the True Church Conference at First Baptist Church of Muscle Shoals, Alabama, with me last Thursday and Friday. The True Church Conference was good. I was refreshed and challenged by the three speakers I heard preach.

Conrad Mbewe, Senior Pastor of the Katwaba Baptist Church in Lusaks, Zambai, preached on the topic: The Power of the Holy Spirit and the Miracle of Conversion. Mbewe’s message spoke to me on several fronts. Please allow me to express just a few of his thoughts.

At the beginning of his message Mbewe made a weighty observation about our salvation through Jesus Christ. He said,

“We are what we are because of the power of God. We are not a product of information. We are not the result of knowledge. We are not the result of creative teaching. Ephesians 2:5 says, ‘by grace you have been saved’. We are what we are because of the power of God…Salvation is the result of God’s omnipotence…If you are Christian today you are a product of God. It is not because of your cleverness or your Christian upbringing or the eloquence of the preaching you heard or the ambience of the room when you heard the gospel. It is because of God.

Later in his message he spoke about the will of God:

“The center of your life must be the will of God and the will of God alone. We must wake up each day and ask God, ‘what will you have me to do?’ We cannot give God an hour or two each week and then think we have the rest of the week to ourselves.”

The entire message was a great encouragement to me, and I regret only being able to share just a small tidbit of what he said.

It was his conclusion that spoke the loudest, however.

Mbewe concluded this powerful message by saying there are two signs of salvation we should look for in every believer. As you read of these signs, you should be asking yourself if these qualities are evident in your life:

The first sign of salvation is ONGOING REPENTANCE. When people are saved they are moved from being a slave to sin to being a slave to righteousness. Do they still see sin for what it is—it is a breach of God, it is an offense of God, it is the breaking of God’s Law? A true Christian is broken by their sin, because of what God’s Word says about sin. They are not broken by their sin because it troubles their spouse or because it is wrong. They see sin for what it is. They continue to bow to the word of God.

The second sign of salvation is FAITH, TRUE FAITH in the living God. If you were to tell a blind man in a dark room enjoying his favorite beer that there was a deadly cobra in the room about to kill him, he would think you were only trying to rob him of his present joy. But if his eyes were opened and you turned on a light so he could see, he would waste no time in getting out of the room. He would probably make a brand new opening out of that room. People who are saved have their eyes opened to the evils around them, God shines the truth of His Word on them, and they do everything in their power to live by faith in order to do God’s
will.

Ongoing repentance and true faith…I like that. I think Mbewe nailed it. I am particularly interested in the sign of ongoing repentance. Perhaps later this week I can write about the importance of continuous contrition and real trust as necessary ingredients to the Christian life.

Theology of Sex

After worship yesterday morning I had a few parents ask me for a copy of the Theology of Sex lessons I presented n my message, so I thought I would provide them for you in today’s blog.

Lesson #1: Sex is not your idea; it is God’s idea. Sex is God’s gift to man (Genesis 2:24-25).

Lesson #2: The purpose of sex is basically two-fold. One, sex is designed for the pro-creation of mankind (Genesis 1:26-29). Two, sex is designed to meet the intimacy needs shared between a husband and a wife (1 Corinthians 7:1-3).

Lesson #3: Sex is meant to be experienced, appreciated and enjoyed within the commitment of marriage between one man and one woman. When people step out of God’s divine plan for sexual satisfaction troubles become rampant and problems get out of control (! Corinthians 5:1-2).

Lesson #4: Having a sex drive is good. Your sex drive is from God. Having a sex drive does not make you a sinful person (1 Corinthians 7:8-9).

Lesson #5: Sexual thoughts are not bad. A sexual thought is normal. It means that you are alive. It is when sexual thoughts become perverted beyond the moral boundaries God established that makes them sinful (1 Thessalonians 4:1-8).

Lesson #6: God’s standard for enjoying your sexuality is simple—purity before marriage and fidelity in marriage. Do you want a good sex life? Do you want to enjoy sex in a way you have never experienced it before? Then you remain pure before you marry, remain faithful to your spouse after you marry and you will enjoy sex the way God designed it (Hebrews 13:4; Matthew 5:31).

At the conclusion of the third worship Dr. Mark Isley provided me of some disquieting statistics he used in his Bible study class that morning. His class is working through Dr. Kevin Lehman’s book, Running the Rapids: Guiding Teenagers through Turbulent Waters of Adolescence. For those of you who do not know, Mark is a high school principal in the Shelby County school system.

With regard to sexual promiscuity:

• 50% of all high school students have participated in sexual intercourse.
• 60% of all seniors in high school have participated in sexual intercourse. (Mark commented, “I believe that this number is actually too low. My guess is that 80% of high school seniors have participated in sexual intercourse.”)
• By the age of 20, 80% of the student population has participated in sexual intercourse.
  
  

With regard to drug use:

• By the tenth grade, 50% of the student population has attempted to smoke marijuana.
• By the 11th grade, 70% of students have attempted or are smoking cigarettes.
• By the 9th grade, 70% of students have tasted alcohol.
• By the 12th grade, 90% of students have tasted alcohol. Also, by the 12th grade, 50% of all seniors drink alcohol on a regular basis.

Parents the pressure is on, and it is required of us to proactively insulate our children from the troubling trends. If you have not already started discussing sex and drugs with your children, get busy doing so today. Who do you want teaching your kids about sex and drugs—their friends, MTV, the public school system or you?

Taking the Gospel to All the World

When you read your Bible tomorrow morning I want you to look for a sentence in Mark’s Gospel account, which reads:

And he said to them, "Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.”
Mark 16:15

When you read it, mark that sentence because I want it to remind you of the great task we have in fulfilling CrossPoint's vision of reaching JUST ONE MORE to become a fully devoted follower of Christ. If we are to believe our vision is particular to CrossPoint, then we must also take to heart what Jesus commissioned us to do in Mark 16:15.

When I read that sentence early this morning it reminded me of my mentor and friend, Dr. Harry Lucenay. Harry, and his wife Nancy, live in Hong Kong, where he pastors Kowloon Toon International Baptist Church. Each week he sends me and several other people a weekly update. Most of the emails include incredible stories of conversions he and his church are allowed to participate in because the harvest is so rich in that part of the world. I am often challenged by the number of gospel-sharing encounters Harry has each week.

Check out an excerpt from this week’s update:

Plans have been approved for two new gardens of remembrance in Hong Kong. People will be allowed to scatter the ashes of their loved ones without charge in these special gardens. The government is seeking to ease the shortage of urn space. One of the obstacles authorities expect to face will come as they seek to overcome the Chinese taboo against mixing their bones with others. One Chinese lady thought the whole process was a great idea. She said, “by that time I’ll already be dead—I won’t need to worry about it.” When asked why she didn’t like spreading ashes at sea she said, “I am afraid that my spirit and my husband’s will be separated as the sea may float us apart.” If their ashes are sprinkled in the garden she said, “we can see and talk to each other after we die.”

That is so strange, isn’t it? Where would she get the idea that if their ashes are sprinkled together in the same space they “can see and talk to each other after they die"?

The woman’s misconceptions about life after death remind me of Jesus’ parable about the rich man who died and spent eternity in Hell:

"There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate was laid a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man's table. Moreover, even the dogs came and licked his sores. The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried, and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. And he called out, 'Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.' But Abraham said, 'Child, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner bad things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.' And he said, 'Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father's house—for I have five brothers —so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.' But Abraham said, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.' And he said, 'No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.' He said to him, 'If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.'"
Luke 16:19-31

Observe how the rich man’s life after death did not center on himself or with communicating with those who died with him. Instead, he was more concerned with his five brothers who were still alive on earth. Abraham’s fate had already been settled. He was so miserable in hell he wanted to do whatever he could to help his brothers.

Look at his hellish conditions:

• He was without mercy (because he was eternally separated from God)
• He was without relief (no water)
• He was in anguish (because he was being eternally consumed by fire)
• He was separated from God and his family (due to the great chasm)
• He was lost (because no one could cross between the chasm)
• He was concerned for his family (because he did not want them to experience hell)
• He was tormented

The last two sentences of this parable always alarm me—And he said, 'No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.' He said to him, 'If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.'"

Two thoughts come to mind as I write this portion of the blog. First, when I read the woman’s thoughts about her ashes being sprinkled together with her husbands, I realize how confused the world is about life and life after death. We have the message of hope that world is dying to hear. Therefore, we must get busy and spread out across this globe to spread this good news message. Second, when I read Jesus’ parable about hell, I realize how serious our job is to disseminate the gospel into all the world. The world is depending on us.

One more thought and I am done.

My good friend, Buddy Gray says two things happen when the gospel is not communicated clearly. One, men and women are not given the opportunity to be saved. Two, God is not glorified.

CrossPoint we have a mission. Let’s spread the gospel to JUST ONE MORE!

Hallelujah Chorus with Nuns

After watching the video tell me what you think. I have watched it several times, and I am more impressed with each viewing.

The next time you watch it, look for the creative way the third nun flashes the sign “Lords” in the phrase “Lord of Lords”. Also, check out how fast the nun flashes his or her sign for “and”. You must watch closely or you will miss it.

The first time I watched it I laughed out loud. The second time I watched it I started to worship. The third time I applauded.

Watch out CrossPoint, choir. I see us doing something like this next Christmas at the end of our Christmas music.

Running and the Life in Christ

I guess it is now obvious how obsessed I am about running marathons. Running two marathons in 33 days is a bit compulsive. Although my body is still paying the price, I am so glad I decided to do it. Now I know it can be done. I also know I will not try that feat again.

Looking back through my blogs from the last several months, I noticed a definite pattern in my writing. Periodically each month I write about running. I like running because I believe there are many similarities between running and the Christian life. Please allow me to elaborate.

First, both running and the Christian life are similar in that they have a definite goal in mind, and that is to finish.

For the marathoner, a good finish is measured three ways. One, did I finish the race? Two, did I finish within my goal time? Three, did I finish strong?

For the Christ follower, a good finish is measured in much the same way—did I finish, did I finish strong and did I finish remaining faithful to Christ?

In speaking of his finishing the race, Paul wrote:

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 4:7

Another similarity between running and the Christian life is the prize the racers receive for competing.

Elite marathoners receive prize money and world-wide acclaim for winning a marathon. Novice marathoners like me and the thousands of others who compete receive the satisfaction of knowing you have completed the course. The completing the race is usually celebrated within seconds after crossing the finish line when the organizers place a commemorative medallion around your neck. My five marathon medallions are hanging on a wooden cross in my study, just beneath a crown of thorns. That’s a good place for those medals. Positioning the medals in that location, remind me of the great price Christ paid for me to compete.

Paul spoke of his reward in the next sentence to Timothy:

Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.
2 Timothy 4:8

Also, running and the Christian life are similar in that both require strict training and discipline.

It usually takes 14 – 18 weeks to get in shape for a marathon. That training plan includes an increase in mileage each week in order to increase your physical stamina. There is also speed work which increases your cardiovascular strength. And, you must watch you diet in order to remain fit.

To live your life for Christ, you must develop disciplines that increase ones endurance and witness in Christ. Paul teaches:

Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.
1 Timothy 4:7-8

Finally, running and the Christian life are similar in that you must remain focused.

Yes, I enjoy the sights and sounds associated with a marathon. Most marathons are run in major cities, where you can enjoy the city’s surroundings. However, anyone serious about running a marathon must remain focused in order not to trip or to be disqualified.

The writer of Hebrews speaks of the Christian’s focus, when he writes:

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:1-2

There is so much more I could write comparing running and the Christian life. The previous comparisons are not exhaustive. What they do highlight, though, is a real connection between competing and completing a faithful life in Christ.

For all the CrossPointers reading today’s blog, I want to remind you we being WOW—Worship on Wednesday—tonight at 6:30 PM. This is one of my favorite times of the year when the adults of CrossPoint gather for worship and fellowship in the middle of the week.

We kick off WOW tonight with a concert from a CrossPoint home band known as 3 Sixteen. Keith Brooks, Dan Weathers, Roger Shaneyfelt and some of their friends will debut their new CD “Reaching Out.” The song “Just One More” is on this CD, and it was written by Keith Brooks in honor of CrossPoint’s vision. I hope we pack the house tonight to kickoff a great summer of WOW and to let these men know how much we love them.

And finally, you are going to crack up when you watch the video in tomorrow’s blog. Every time I view it I see something new I did not see before. I will give you a hint as what to expect—you will laugh and worship at the same time.

Until then, I look forward to communicating with you tomorrow.

Motivation at Mile 17

Mile 17 of the Country Music Marathon was my best mile. Please allow me to work through my run in order to explain.

I use the first few miles of a marathon to get into my rhythm. To get into my rhythm I mentally break down the run into two segments. The first segment of my marathon includes 4 five-mile runs. While the second segment of my race includes 3 two-mile runs.

In my mind, it is easier to run 4 five-milers and 3 two-milers than it is to run one 26.2-miler. When you train with 40 and 50 miles a week, a five mile run is a no-brainer. A two mile run takes even less effort. So psychologically, I break the first part of the race into some manageable numbers, and I make the last part of my race even more acceptable.

I used the first five-miler to weave through the crowd. There were 30,000 runners in Saturday’s race. So, it took three or four miles for the crowd to thin out. As a result, the first five miles passed quickly. My body was starting to warm up. I had a good sweat going, and I felt strong.

I used the second five-miler to get into my stride. Instead of running mile six of 26.2, I looked at the next five-miler as if I were running a new run. For example, mile six is now the first mile of another five-mile run. The second five-mile segment passed without delay because I was enjoying all the sights and sounds of the city. It also helped to hear a band playing music about every mile or two. Thousands of people lining the streets motivated me as well.

The third five-miler was the most relaxing because it was the most scenic. Once again, instead of looking at mile eleven, I counted it as the first mile of another five-mile run. My simple mind forces me to keep things simple. So it is much more manageable for me to run the first mile of another five mile run than it is for me to run mile eleven of a 26.2 mile run.

The fourth five-miler was a seminal turning point for me. What happened in this part of the race gave me great incentive to finish strong.

First, my body was responding so positively to my run/walk strategy that I did not even notice passing mile marker #16. As a result I was pleasantly surprised to see mile marker #17 which I thought was going to be mile marker #16. Gaining that “extra mile” was great fuel for my mental fatigue.

What occurs next is even better.

Parts of the Nashville Marathon are set up as an out and back course, which means you retrace your steps of a previous part of the course. To state it another way, mile 17 was on the other side of the street from mile 11. What caught my eye at mile 17 was another runner coming toward me from mile 11.

When I first recognized her I thought she was a bystander on the course running just a few steps to encourage another runner. Yet upon closer examination I noticed a racing bib attached to her shirt. She was not a bystander. She was a runner.

And what was it that made her stand out?

This runner was not like any other runner I had seen that day. She was an extraordinary runner. She had some form of muscle and coordination disability related to cerebral palsy or a stroke…and she was running!

Wow. I could not believe my eyes. She ran with one arm curled up against her chest. She was dragging her left leg, all the while stomping with her right foot, and she was running.

How was she able to run? Was she really trying to complete the marathon? There is no way she is able to do this.

It was a powerful picture of willpower. She was a living illustration of fortitude. I raised my arms in her direction as if I were cheering for her. After that, I turned my hands higher toward heaven as an expression of praise for God using her so meaningfully in my life. Whether or not she realized it, this runner was a shining example to me. She was a living testimony to will power, effort, and determination. My heart pumped with adrenalin. My legs increased their pace. My mind was no longer tired, it was alert.

Wait, there is more!

As mile 17 came to an end, I looked forward to mile 18 because I remembered it being down hill when I passed it earlier on my way out of town. I knew I could use mile 18 to make up some time. For a fat boy like me, running down hill is always good.

I topped the hill and recognized the mile marker just ahead of me. But there was something between me and the mile marker the demanded more of my attention. It was another runner. She was wearing an orange and black Virginia Tech racing shirt. On the back of her shirt were the words: “In memory of my sister and the other students who were killed at Virginia Tech.” Then it listed the 32 students massacred two weeks ago in Blacksburg.

Wow, that was another shot of adrenalin.

As I moved past her I said, “Go Hokies!” She responded with a thank you. Seeing the names of those students listed on her shirt certainly gave me the perspective I needed.

Now do you see why mile 17 was such a keeper? The motivation came at just the right time. It was what I needed to finish strong. It was exactly what I needed to make it to the finish line.

Tomorrow, if you do not mind, I want to share with you the similarities I find in marathon running and Christian living.