Bro. Matt's Blog

Bro. Matt's Blog Has Moved!!!!

2011-07-05T08:08:00.000-07:00

Yep, that's right. I have decided to totally 'redo' my blog and be as 'radically intentional' with it as possible.

Click here to go directly to the blog called "The HEART of Pastor Matt".

See you there!

Clarification From Yesterday's Message on Encouragement

2011-06-13T10:26:00.001-07:00

Yesterday morning I preached the second in a series of 8 messages on the 'one another's of the New Testament. "Encourage one another " was the focal command for yesterday. One of the four reasons I gave for obeying this command was this:

"3. Biblical encouragement is a primary means God uses to keep us saved."

I based this statement from what the author of Hebrews says in Hebrews 3:12-14 - "Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelievingly heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort/encourage one another every day, as long as it is called 'today,' that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. For we have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence firm to the end."

Let me assure everyone reading this blog: Matt Pearson believes in the doctrine of eternal security!!! The Bible is loud and clear about that from the beginning to the end. Denying that denies much of the Bible and the beautiful grace of God in salvation. My hope is that God will keep me saved today and tomorrow and forever; not in Matt Pearson's works.

But I also MUST let the Bible speak and let the Bible drive my convictions and theology and doctrine, not my preconceived ideas and notions. I believe in the doctrine of eternal security AND I believe Hebrews 3:12-14.

Now, according to Hebrews 3:12-14, if some things don't happen, believers might fall away from God. They are commanded to : (1) take care; (2) encourage one another; and (3) hold firm their original confidence to the end. If they don't, they might develop an evil, unbelievingly. heart and become hardened by the deceitfulness of sin - leading them to fall away from God and not share in Christ in the end.

Since I believe that I cannot lose my salvation, then when I read that text, I have a choice to make. I can:
(a). Ignore it because even if I do drift a bit, I am okay; or...
(b). Diligently heed the command/warning, seeing it as a gift of God's grace for me and the church to stay saved.

Which do you think is more biblical? Which defines a child of God more concretely? Of course, (b) is the correct response.

Now. If I do not obey, am I still a Christian? Maybe. If I ignore this/these command(s) I either demonstrate either (1) I never was saved in the first place; or, (2) miss God's best for me, get convicted by the Spirit of God, and by His grace press on to heed this grace for me in the
days ahead.

Jesus said in Matthew 24 that the one who endures to the end (by following Him in obedience) will be saved. Likewise, Paul said to work out your salvation with fear and trembling in Philippians 2.

So, do I believe that once a believer is authentically saved by the grace of Christ and the Spirit of God that he/she will ALWAYS be saved? You betcha. But I also believe (because of texts like Hebrews 3:12-14) that this includes the fact that God graciously uses means to keep us saved, one of them being that the church heed the command to encourage one another to the end.

Why else is the Bible here? Was not the majority of the NT written for churches??? Why is it all there unless it is to be used as a means to keep the church graciously and gloriously saved?

Why would we need each other if we could get by as believers all by ourselves? We can't!!! This is why God graciously gave us each other.
God graciously uses means to keep us saved, so diligently and intentionally encourage one another TODAY. By doing so, you reveal the Spirit's work in your own heart (bringing confirmation to your soul of God working in and through you); AND you just might be a means God has ordained to keep a brother or sister from falling away from the living God.

Clarification From Yesterday's Message on Encouragement

2011-06-13T10:26:00.000-07:00

Discussion Questions for June 5th, 2011 Sermons

2011-06-06T15:14:00.000-07:00

Due to the '242-Sharing Life Together' Series on the 'One Anothers' of the New Testament this summer, all discussion questions for the Sunday morning messages (June-July 2011) can be found at this link at the Wynne Baptist Church web-site.

As for the message on Haggai, I preached last night, I will simply encourage you to consider the implication questions I posed at the close of the sermon. You can watch or listen to the message here.

Here are the questions I left you with last night:

1. WBC, Consider Our Ways: A Superior Temple, and the Display of God’s Glory Remains Incomplete…What are We Doing about It?

2. WBC, Consider Our Ways: The Amount of God’s Spirit You Experience and Your Practice of Obedience…Is there a Connection?

3. WBC, Consider Our Ways: God Keeps His Promises…Do You Believe It?

Give them Grace - Parenting Book Referenced Last Night

2011-06-06T15:05:00.000-07:00

Last night, I referenced/recommended Give Them Grace: Dazzling Your Kids with the Love of Jesus by Elyse Fitzpatrick and Jessica Thompson.

You can order the book directly from Amazon by clicking here.

I also mentioned a very helpful interview with Elyse Fitzpatrick about the book. You can listen and/or watch the interview here.

Enjoy!

Bible Reading Plan that Takes Jesus' Approach to Scripture

2011-05-22T03:29:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week, I came across this Bible reading plan by Jason DeRouchie.

Click here to link to where I found it (Desiring God) and to a link where you can download the plan in a PDF format.

Here are its unique features:

1. Proportionate weight is given to the Old and New Testaments in view of their relative length, the Old receiving three readings per day and the New getting one reading per day.

2. The Old Testament readings follow the arrangement of Jesus’ Bible (Luke 24:44––Law, Prophets, Writings), with one reading coming from each portion per day.

3. In a single year, one reads through Psalms twice and all other biblical books once; the second reading of Psalms (highlighted in gray) supplements the readings through the Law (Genesis–Deuteronomy).

4. Only 25 readings are slated per month in order to provide more flexibility in daily devotions.

5. The plan can be started at any time of the year, and if four readings per day are too much, the plan can simply be stretched to two or more years (reading from one, two, or three columns per day).

What About the Books on Brief Heaven and Hell Experiences???

2011-05-09T12:46:00.000-07:00

There is alot of talk out there about books such as 90 Minutes in Heaven and Heaven is For Real and 23 Minutes in Hell.

Randy Alcorn thinks through this issus (these issues?) here.

A particularly helpful quote:

"Acts 17:11 tells us that the Bereans searched the Scriptures daily "to see if what Paul said was true." Now, if ever in human history you were going to assume that another person's words were true, not finding it necessary to double-check against the Scriptures, surely it would be with the Apostle Paul. Yet the Bereans were commended for carefully scrutinizing Paul's words in light of Scripture. If Paul's words needed to fall under the judgment of God's Word, obviously mine do, and Don Piper’s do, and Todd and Colton Burpo’s do.

"I do believe that something is seriously wrong if people take more time to contemplate and discuss Colton Burpo’s account of petting Jesus' rainbow-colored horse, or of Jesus wearing a crown with a pink diamond, than they do studying what the Bible actually says about Heaven. The back cover of the book says 'Heaven Is for Real will forever change the way you think of eternity.' I would say, 'Seek to let the Bible alone change the way you think of eternity.'"

Resources to Aid in Parenting with a Gospel Focus

2011-05-09T12:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning I mentioned several books that would be helpful for any parent longing to see their children grow knowledge of and love for the Jesus of the biblical Gospel.

Click the links below and you will go directly to Amazon:

The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name by Sally Lloyd-Jones

Gospel-Powered Parenting: How the Gospel Shapes and Transforms Parenting by William P. Farley

Shepherding a Child's Heart by Tedd Tripp

Instructing a Child's Heart by Tedd Tripp

Everyday Talk: Talking Freely and Naturally about God with Your Children by John A. Younts

Another book that is forthcoming looks like it is going to be outstanding (by a very Gospel-centered and trustworthy author) as well is:

Give them Grace: Dazzling Your Kids with the Love of Jesus by Elyse Fitzpatrick and Jessica Thompson

At The Gospel Coalition web-site, they link to this helpful talk entitled "How to Teach Children and Youth the Gospel Story."

Also, tomorrow night (May 10, 2011) Desiring God will be interviewing Paul Tripp (Tedd Tripp's brother) on the topic of "Getting to the Heart of Parenting." I am sure it will be very, very helpful for any and all parents - especially when it comes to applying the Gospel.

FYI: Helpful Resources for Seeing Christ in the Old Testament

2011-05-09T12:11:00.001-07:00

The Gospel Coalition has grown to be one of my favorite websites to visit for solid, helpful resources concerning all things evangelical.

One of my favorite aspects about it is its attention to helping followers of Christ to read and understand all of the Bible as Christian. In other words, it helps us see the connections between Jesus and the Old Testament.

Yesterday morning I preached from Luke 24, where Jesus walked with a couple on the road to Emmaus and walked through the Old Testament, making all the connections to Himself. In other words, He showed them how the Old Testament spoke of, predicted, and prepared for the coming of the Messiah. (See Luke 24:25-27)

For helpful resources on how to grow in your understanding of how to read and understand the Bible from this perspective, click here. The Gospel Coalition is doing a tremendous service to the church by making these interviews, articles, workshops, etc. available.

Also, The Gospel Coalition recently hosted a conference where this (Christ and the Old Testament) was the entire theme. Click here to go directly there. Enjoy. May our hearts burn together as we learn the Scriptures with the proper Gospel lens.

Discussion Questions from May 8th, 2011 Sermons

2011-05-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning I preached a message entitled "Enormous Emmaus Emotions caused by the Ever Enlightening Emmanuel" from Luke 24:13-35.

You can watch, listen, and/or download the message here later today.

Here are some questions to enhance your understanding of the text:

1. Why was the couple on the road to Emmaus so sad and hopeless? How can you relate to their hopelessness? Have you ever said to yourself, "I had hoped..."? What about?

2. How did Jesus' resurrection change all of that? Why is His resurrection from the dead such a big deal and what are some of the implications of it?

3. What did Jesus do differently with the Old Testament (from what they were used to doing) that caused their hearts to burn? What does this say about how Jesus expects the Old Testament to be read and interpreted? (See Post - "FYI: Helpful Resources for Seeing Christ in the Old Testament" Later Today)

4. According to this text, what causes hearts to burn for the things of God? What does this mean for your own heart? What does this mean for the hearts you have influence over?

5. What do you think happened that caused the couple from Emmaus to (finally!) recognize Jesus? How is this similar to what happened to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (See Genesis 3:1-11)?
For further treatment on this thought, click here for a very helpful and detailed article by Dane Ortlund.

6. What did the couple from Emmaus do the moment they 'recognized' Jesus as the resurrected Messiah? What does this say about what 'grasping' the resurrection should effect in us?

Last night I continued the 'Overview' series through the Minor Prophets ("The 'Not So' Minor Minors"). Last night's message was on Habakkuk. The title was "Habakkuk: From Hacked Off to Hallelujah." Click here (later today) to watch, listen and/or download.

Below are some questions to add to your digestion of the book:

1. Why was Habakkuk so angry the first time? (See Habakkuk 1:1-4) Why was he so angry the second time? (See Habakkuk 1:12-17) Have you ever complained at God for doing/allowing something to happen in your life that you didn't have categories for? What were/are they?

2. How did you handle it when these circumstances entered your life?

3. What were the 4 actions Habakkuk took to move from being 'Hacked Off' at God to saying 'Hallelujah' to God?
Which of these actions seem the easiest? Why?
Which of these actions seem to be the hardest? Why?

4. According to Habakkuk 3:17-19, what happened to Habakkuk through this deal?

5. How does the book of Habakkuk mirror the story of the Gospel?

6. According to Habakkuk 2:14, where is everything headed and why does God do everything He does? How does knowing this change the way we (believers) should look at the world?

7. Habakkuk 2:4 is quoted 3 times in the New Testament. Where are they and what is the thrust of meaning behind each quote?

I CANNOT Believe It's FREE!!!!

2011-05-02T15:18:00.001-07:00

For anyone interested....

I learned today that Paul Miller's EXCELLENT book A Praying Life: Connecting with God in a Distracting World is FREE for Kindle.

Click here to get it and/or buy the hardcopy on Amazon.

I also learned today the Tim Challies' new book The Next Story: Life and Faith after the Digital Explosion is available for free as an Audio Book for the Month of May. Click here to download it for free.

Helpful Evangelistic Website

2011-05-02T15:12:00.001-07:00

Below is a link to a web-site by Christianity Explored. I have been extremely impressed by resources they have put out in the past related to personal evangelism. They have just revamped their website and it is very 'seeker' friendly related to helping those without Christ understand more about Christianity and what followers of Christ believe and such.

Here's the link: http://www.christianityexplored.org/

Use it for yourself and reference it to those whom you know and love who are searching for answers related to the things of Christ.

Christians and Osama Bin Laden (UPDATED)

2011-05-02T09:07:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this will be somewhat brief...I will link to some additional resources below that I think will be helpful and for further reading.

I have had several request my thoughts on the death of Osama Bin Laden.

I found myself having some very mixed emotions last night, to be real honest.

On one hand, I was thrilled! I mean, a mastermind who was dead set on killing as many as possible was gone?!?! That, to me, was a really good thing.

On the other hand, I was grieved. How could I be happy that someone is dead? Especially someone who is (more than likely) in hell and will stay there being tortured throughout eternity?

Then I checked Twitter. Oh my.

First I read people rejoicing. Then I read others who were rebuking those for rejoicing. Then I read where people were sharing the same mixture of feelings that I had. Then I read Bible verses that countered others who had posted Bible verses. Yikes....made me glad I don't have a Facebook account!!!!

So how should Christians think about this deal?

I read a tweet by J.D. Greear this morning that really helped me balance this thing out some. He, more or less stacked two verses on top of one another and stated (in essence) that we need to wrestle with both truths.

(UPDATE: J.D. Greear blogged some thoughts here)

The first verse he referenced was Proverbs 24:17-18 - "Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles, lest the LORD see it and be displeased, and turn away his anger from him."

He also referenced Ezekiel 33:11 which says the LORD takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked.

Amen and Amen.

But he also (this is the part that was helpful) referenced our need to rejoice in the fact that justice was shown AND weep for the loss of life (especially one doomed to hell).

God is just and demands justice. He is a LOVER of justice. Justice was served. One who was responsible for thousands of people dying (and who knows if others were being planned?) was now dead. Rejoice.

But God does not rejoice in the death of wicked. Weep.

I think the biblical response is to balance both: rejoice and weep. Rejoice on the biblical one hand and weep on the biblical other. Both are biblical, thus, both are right.

Does Paul not himself say that we believers live in that world? "Sorrowful, yet always rejoicing"??? (see 2 Corinthians 6:10). It is okay to live in that tension. We need to wrestle with it and, at the end of the day, be totally biblical at all costs.

It is a reminder, seeing the people rejoice and the Americans dancing in the streets and such, of all of humanity's struggle with justice. We all want it. We all need it. We all know that if it were practiced on us from the God of the universe then we ourselves would be destroyed. In fact, we cannot understand the Gospel fully until we understand justice. We deserve far worse than Osama Bin Laden got last week from American soldiers (who, by the way, are incredible heroes!!!! Thank you troops!). We deserve to be destroyed by God Himself due to our sin against Him and cast into an eternal hell. Another man, Jesus, was killed in our place. Justice has been served! Our penalty has been paid...by another! Hallelujah.

So, at the moment, my counsel would be to wrestle with the tensions of rejoicing in justice and weeping in death.

AND, please Christians, take every opportunity to go to the justice and grace of God found at the cross of Jesus. The death of Osama Bin Laden can be a remarkable way to evangelize! May it be.

Click here to a couple of other posts (notice: I HAVEN'T READ THESE - they just seem to be very interesting and helpful - from a place I trust).

Justin Taylor has updated some links to the above link I posted earlier here.

God's Waterfall of Blessing - UAE (Part 5)

2011-04-29T08:06:00.000-07:00

"Vision, Clarity, and Being 'All In.' "

Personally, this is the blog post I have been most looking forward to write. I was affected by everything that happened last week. God is at work in Dubai (see post #1); the Compassion Kit Parties are remarkable ways to show and tell the love of Christ (see post #2); the Compassion Kits are phenomenal tools to present the Gospel (see post #3); and the follow-up plan is done with acute discernment and with excellence (see post #4). But for me, all of these things were highlighted, if not dominated, by a spirit of the men (and families) God has called there doing these things. It was/is a spirit that rebuked me. It was/is a spirit that challenged me. It was/is a spirit that encouraged me. It was/is a spirit that I believe allowed me to see the fruit of what I was seeing while there. It was/is a spirit that I long for. It was/is a spirit I don't see much in the lives of pastors and church leaders. It was/is a spirit that I don't see much in missionaries around the world. It was/is a spirit that I haven't had but hurt to possess.

The spirit I am talking about is a spirit of passion to see the kingdom of Christ advance with violence.

I saw it in the eyes of the guys we worked with. I heard it in their words. I watched it in their daily routines. I envisioned it as I heard them dream. I saw it in their wives. I saw it in their kids. I saw it happening before my eyes.

As a matter of fact, one night I was having coffee (Starbucks of course...what else is there?) with the visionary of this deal and asked him, "what gets you out of bed in the morning?" I was expecting to hear something like, "I don't want these people to go to hell" or "I want Jesus to get the glory He deserves for all mankind." Though these are definitely things he wants, that is not what he said. He said, "Man, I want to see the kingdom of Christ advance across this region." When he said that a light went on. "That's it" I thought. That's what I have been seeing in these guys and their families but haven't been able to put my finger on it. These guys have totally given themselves to the advancement of the kingdom of Christ where God is massively at work in Dubai, UAE.

They have big dreams.

They have a HUGE vision.

They have massive plans.

Their dreams, vision, and plans have unmatched clarity to them.

Here's the thing, however: I know alot of people who dream big and cast a vision and make clear plans on paper. But I haven't seen many people actually try to outwork their vision and plan and dreams. There is a HUGE difference between having a plan and casting a vision and dreaming a dream and then just hoping it all comes together and actually going to MAKE SURE it all comes together.

I fear that I have seen, in my own life and in the lives of countless others, good ideas and big dreams and great visions stay on paper in the hopes that God will bless and do the work for me/them.

Not these guys. They are resolute. They are "all in." They are determined to make their vision and dreams a reality and work with all of their might to see the kingdom of Christ advance while God is pouring out His waterfall of blessing there. As one of them told me several times, "There is no Plan B." In other words, they aren't thinking about what happens if it doesn't work. They aren't thinking about what happens if they need to do something else. No, no. Their hands are on the plow and they are not looking back or to the side (see Luke 9:57-62). They are looking straight ahead, waking up every morning - seeking His kingdom and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33) trusting the Word that one day the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of God (Habakkuk 2:14).

Before I left to go on this missions experience, I asked several people to pray that this trip be a life-changing experience for me. That I would come back a different Matt Pearson than when I left. God answered that prayer. I praise His name for it and thank Him for allowing me to stand under His waterfall of blessing for a couple of days and rub shoulders with some white-hot servants of His who are zealous for the kingdom to move with force.

Anybody can plan. Anybody can dream. Anybody can cast a vision. Few, however, have the guts and the courage; few make the time and the sacrifices; few get their hands dirty and adjust their schedules; few have a zeal and a passion for it to be done; few actually believe that the world can be turned upside down for Christ; few are willing to do the hard things when no one is looking.

Could it be because most are zealous for their own kingdoms to advance with violence?

Have mercy on me, oh God, and replace my love for Matt's kingdom with an unparalleled passion for Yours to be spread violently around the world.

God's Waterfall of Blessing - UAE (Part 4)

2011-04-28T06:36:00.000-07:00

All week long I have been posting some thoughts regarding my recent mission experience in Dubai, UAE.

Monday, I wrote a bit about why I call this series "God's Waterfall of Blessing."

Tuesday, I wrote about what is called "Compassion Kit Parties."

Yesterday I tried to describe what "Compassion Kits" are all about.

Today, I want to briefly describe how the guys in Dubai are following up with those who attend the Compassion Kit parties and/or surrender their lives to Christ during one of these parties. Prior to my going to Dubai, several from the church where I pastor had heard of men putting their faith in Christ, but did not know if any follow-up/discipleship was going on. I myself was unclear, thus my curiosity was high. My curiosity increased when I was told that the primary purpose of the "Compassion Kit Parties" was not to see men saved, but to get them involved in a story group. Really? The primary purpose? Yes. Let me explain...

As I explained on Tuesday, the parties served several different parties, complete with an invitation to respond to the Gospel. Many men responded and asked Jesus to save them and be their Lord and Savior. These men (along with others at the 'parties') were quickly encouraged to be a part of a story group that would meet soon thereafter. The purpose of these story groups are two-fold: First, for those who did trust Christ to grow in their understanding of the Bible and the Lord they just surrendered to. Second, there were many (being that all sorts of religious backgrounds were represented in the room) who were intrigued by the Person and teachings of Jesus, but still wanted to know more. The story groups, which (to put it simply and basically) are weekly oral teachings of the biblical storyline led by a trained national (lasting anywhere from 10 weeks to 24 weeks), would both disciple those who trusted Christ and/or help answer questions those who were curious about Christianity - hopefully bringing more to Christ. Thus, the story groups are CRUCIAL to the work in helping solidify decisions made during the 'parties' and to further evangelize those wanting to know more before embracing Christ.

You can see why the story groups were/are the primary purpose!!!!! Needless to say it got me thinking about how this sort of thing can/needs to be incorporated in the states.

The guys directing and leading out in this ministry are also very intentional about ensuring these men who trust Christ understand their need of being baptized - to which they follow up on until the men are dunked!

I will type more about this tomorrow - but for now suffice it to say that the overall vision for this ministry is HUGE and is backed with remarkable clarity and feet to the work. The guys I worked with last week don't just hope to see some men saved so they can write back to the states about how many men raised their hand at a party where they got some free stuff. No, no, no. These men are intentional and extreme about advancing the kingdom of Christ - where God is pouring out His waterfall of blessing. Yes, they want to see men saved. But not just a few. They want to work and plan and lead and direct and organize and arrange ministry to where those who are saved make disciples who make disciples who make disciples...in order to see a movement rock the whole place.

New Book for 'The League' - Summer 2011

2011-04-27T11:55:00.000-07:00

Having read Tempted and Tried, by Russell Moore, I feel compelled to take 'The League' guys through it this summer.

Click here for a description of the book and to view the promo video.

The plan for the summer is as follows:

June 2nd, 2011 - Chapter One: "Wrestline With Demons: Why Temptation Matters"

June 9th, 2011 - Chapter Two: "Slaughterhouse Drive: Why You're on the Verge of Wrecking Your Life (Especially if You Don't Know It)"

June 16th, 2011 - Chapter Three: "Starving to Death: Why We'd Rather Be Fed than Fathered"

June 23rd, 2011 - Chapter Four: "Free Falling: Why We'd Rather Be Right than Rescued"

June 30th, 2011 - OFF

July 7th, 2011 - Chapter Five: "Desert Reign: Why We'd Rather Be Magnified than Crucified"

July 14th, 2011 - OFF/Mission-Wynne

July 21st, 2011 - Chapter Six: "Where the Wild Things Aren't: Why You Can't Resist Temptation (Especially if You Can't See How)"

July 28th, 2011 - Chapter Seven: "(Not A) Conclusion"

What is "The League"??

Any male who wants to get up at the crack of dawn to be at the church at 5:45 am to eat biscuits and gravy, sausage and bacon, etc. and discuss a chapter in a designated book.

What does it cost??

The cost of the book will be $10.00 (Bro. Matt will order and have available for purchase prior to the first summer meeting) and the breakfast is free (w/donations appreciated of course...to offset the cost).

God's Waterfall of Blessing - UAE (Part 3)

2011-04-27T07:48:00.000-07:00

For the past two days, I have been writing brief posts related to my recent mission experience in Dubai, UAE. On Monday, I gave a brief description as to why I have entitled this series "God's Waterfall of Blessing." Yesterday, I gave an overview of what happens at what we call "Compassoin Kit Parties." Today, I want to explain what Compassion Kits are and why they are used.

First and foremost, I would encourage you to click here to familiarize yourself with what Compassion Kits are all about. In fact, click here to get as practical as you want to be.

In short, Compassion Kits are boxes about the size of shoe boxes (perhaps a little larger) that contain items such as socks, a T-shirt, chocolate, soap, deoderant, a toothbrush, and a phone card. All the contents have been intentionally thought through - they are meant to be a small blessing to the laborers in the labor camps.

They are more than a tool that opens the door for a Compassion Kit party (see yesterday's post). When these men, who have been away from home - some of them for over 4 years - see some guys from North American walk in with a gift, knowing that others from the states have purchases and assembled these kits, they know that someone cares for them.

The ultimate goal, of course, is not JUST to leave these guys with a box of stuff that may or may not last them a month. The goal of the kits is to show that we love them, point to the One who loves them infinitely, and 'buy the right' to show and share the Gospel with them, hopefully leading them to involve themselves in a story group (see tomorrow's post).

Believe me, I have seen it first hand...IT WORKS!!!! God is using these kits to bless the nations! He really is. Men responded to the kits with graciousness. They listened to the stories that were shared by the men who brought the kits. Some responded by trusting Christ. Many agreed to be in a story group to learn more about God and His word in oral form.

The Compassion Kit crew have a goal of getting 50,000 Compassion Kits by September 11, 2011. I think it can happen...back up - I KNOW it can happen. I know it because I believe God's hand is in it.

Again, click here or here to see how you can be directly involved in Compassion Kit assembly and distribution. Talk to your pastor about getting your church involved. Be a part of being on the front lines of where God is working in bringing the nations to Himself by participating in these shoe boxes called 'Compassion Kits.' They will be used to further the kingdom.

What are you waiting for? Do it!

'Til the Whole World Hears...

God's Waterfall of Blessing - UAE (Part 2)

2011-04-26T08:42:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I began the first of five in a series on my recent mission experience in Dubai, UAE. As I mentioned yesterday, it was one of if not THE most incredible mission experiences I have ever been on in my life. God is pouring out His waterfall of blessing and I got to sit under the water for five days. Life-changing to say the least.

The primary task for the volunteer team I was with (team members: Kevin Bolin, Ben Browning, and Karl 'Big Daddy Eats a Fat Burger on the First Day' Garner) was to help with what is called 'Compassion Kit Parties' in various camps each night.

Here is a run down of what took place before, during, and after the parties:

- Prior to our coming, believers in the camps had been already trained and committed to inviting their friends, coworkers, etc. to a 'Party' in a certain room (a small room where around 12 men would sleep at night) where they would eat some food, play a game or two, hear some stories, and receive a gift (the gift was a Compassion Kit...more on that tomorrow).

- Those who were invited would show up at the designated room at the designated time. Each night was different as far as attendance was concerned. The first night, my group had 82 in attendance! Other groups would have 40, others 25, and so on. You can imagine, a room that was crowded already with 6 bunk beds, how cramped a room with 82 men in it must be!

- Once everyone we thought was coming had arrived, the guys we work with would start the 'party' off by welcoming everyone and then passing out bags of chips (we brought with us) and cups of Pepsi or orange soda (we also brought). After the snack (which usually lasted no more than 10 seconds!), the guys would lead out in a game (a form of indian wrestling and arm wrestling in a room with 82 men - don't ask, just go and see for yourself). Following the game, one of the North Americans in the room (where the volunteer group comes in...we have been sitting off to the side praying they do not ask us to indian wrestle one of these men who look like they could pick up the building they had been working on all day) would be set (scheduled ahead of time) to tell his personal testimony (with a translator of course). One of the guys would then follow that up with a line or two about how Jesus changed this person's life and would use that to transition to the 2nd story told (called the Hook Story) about a man whose life had been radically changed by Jesus (story of the demon possessed man from Mark 5). The story was told by another of the volunteers in the room (through a translator) in narrative fashion, not read from the Bible - the men in the camps were/are oral learners. There would then be a transition from this story to the 'Gospel' story from Luke 19, and Jesus' encounter with Zaccheus.

- This would, in turn, lead to a call for a response to the Gospel; a prayer with and for those who were led to respond; and then an appeal for those present to be involved in a story group (more on that Thursday).

- We would not leave until the story groups were identified and a time and place for them to meet was established. Having as many men as possible involved in story groups was/is the ultimate goal of these Compassion Kit parties ("What? You mean to tell me seeing these men saved was not the ultimate goal...what kind of ministry is this?" Again, hang on until Thursday to hear more on that...it's really good).

- After ALL of that, several men would go out to our vehicles and get the boxes of Compassion Kits and hand them out, one by one, to each of the men who was present at the party. The what and why and how you can do a Compassion Kit is for tomorrow's post.

- At this point, it would be anywhere from 11 or 12 at night and we would have about an hour and a half drive back to where we were staying. Needless to say (especially since Karl "I'm Gonna Eat Somebody's Hand Off If I Don't Eat Now" Garner was with us!) we stopped on the way home and ate as much Burger King/Popeye's Chicken/Baskin Robbins' milk shakes as we could put down in order to settle us down for a couple of hours sleep (breakfast would be soon!).

Many men came to faith in Christ as a result of these parties and numerous men agreed to participate in a total of 7 story groups that started as a result of these parties. It was a wonderful week. Seeing men from different religious backgrounds trust Christ for the first time reminds you that this is why you exist: for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.

'Til the Whole World Hears...

God's Waterfall of Blessing - UAE

2011-04-25T11:25:00.000-07:00

I just returned from one of the most, if not THE most, incredible mission trip experiences I have ever had the opportunity to participate in. There is so much floating around in my mind regarding it and much I want the world to know (or, at least the two or three people who read my blog)!

My plan is to take a different aspect of our mission trip experience each day this week and talk a bit about the ministry going on in Dubai, UAE (United Arab Emarites).

Here's the plan:

Monday (Today!) - Explain the Title of the Blog Post series

Tuesday - Compassion Kit Parties

Wednesday - Compassion Kits

Thursday - Story Groups/Baptisms

Friday - Vision, Clarity, and being 'All In'

Late December 2010, a dear friend of mine packed his and his family's bags (and house and car and job and school) and headed for Dubai, UAE to be a part of the work God is doing there. Last week I had the chance to play a small part of that work.

What is God doing there you ask? Hence the title of the Blog Series for this week regarding the mission experience in Dubai. When I was asked why I am going to Dubai the week before Easter on a 'last second decision' trip I responded by saying that it seems as if God has chosen to pour out His waterfall of blessing on this place and I want to stand under the water for a while. I had not seen it firsthand. I had only heard about it through reports from my friend and his wife. But having gone I can say with integrity: "God is blessing in Dubai and I got to stand under the waterfall for a week!"

I will explain more in the coming days about what all is involved with the ministry there, but suffice it to say for now that my friend has partnered up with another guy (who actually believes that he can change the world by the power of the Gospel!!!) who has envisioned a plan to reach the nations there in Dubai. They are currently seeing dozens upon dozens of men from other religious backgrounds come to faith in Christ; join story groups to learn the Bible in oral form; be baptized; and lead others to faith in Christ. Some are even being led of God to go back to their home country (India, Nepal, Pakistan, Ethiopia, just to name a few!) and advance the kingdom strategically and intentionally there. Needless to say, then, God is moving in what has formerly been considered some of the hardest people groups/religious groups to reach with the Gospel.

The guys who a spearheading this ministry are there with Compassion Kits under their arms and messages of hope in their hearts and are seeing many men trust Christ, be discipled by the Word, and then be trained to tell more about this message of hope. I've never seen anything like it.

For now, God's waterfall of blessing is being poured out in Dubai and surrounding areas where these labor camps are located. The kingdom is advancing. These guys and their families have been led to be a part of where God is working and they are joining in the movement.

Easter 2011 Sermon Discussion Questions

2011-04-25T09:05:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a GREAT day to be at Wynne Baptist Church! I thoroughly enjoyed being back in the USA and celebrating the resurrection of our Lord Jesus. The passage I preached from was Luke 24:1-12 and the title was, "Security in the Details." You can watch, listen, or download the message here later today.

For those interested in thinking through/discussing the sermon truths further, here are some questions to help prompt some further thinking:

1. In his introduction, Bro. Matt said that Jesus could not be one god among many. Is this true? Why or why not?

2. Why do you think the historical validity of Jesus' resurrection has been attacked so hard for the last 2,000+ years?

3. Of the 10 details mentioned in Luke's account of the first Easter Sunday, which one gripped you the most? Why?

4. Do you see any other details Luke provides to help us believe in the reality of Jesus' resurrection?

5. Why do you think Luke is so careful to provide as many details as possible? (see Luke 1:1-4).

6. If Jesus did indeed rise from the dead, what does that mean for your life?

7. If you are a follower of Jesus and have submitted to His Lordship, what does this mean for your life? (See Luke 24:46-47)

Nahum Helps the WBC Faithful Prepare for Easter

2011-04-11T15:06:00.000-07:00

Okay, so maybe it was a stretch, but I thought it would serve the WBC body well, when reflecting on the enemies of God and His people (Nineveh - read Nahum 1-3), it would be a good time to think about those who will be destroyed without Christ that live in our own city and neighborhoods.

Thus, a good time to remember how to come with a servant's attitude for those who will be on our campus Easter Sunday, right?

You be the judge as to whether it was a stretch or not. Click here to watch, listen, or download the message from last night (should be up later today).

Here are the challenges/suggestions I made for active WBCers for Easter Sunday morning:

- Begin parking as far away as possible so others can have easier access.

- Intentionally look for guests who may need help finding their way.

- Intentionally look for those sitting by themselves before a worship service.

- Invite someone to come to church with you Easter Sunday

– Pick up a copy of God is the Gospel by John Piper and give it away! (See Desiring God's special here.)

- Be willing to sit in the lobby on Easter Sunday.

- Wait until guests are in and settled prior to taking your seat.

- Practice the Golden Rule before, during, and after your time on this campus.

- Be willing to serve in the nursery one service and attend another service.

- Invite a guest to your family lunch.

- Have a neighborhood-wide Easter Egg Hunt next Saturday and intentionally get to know your neighbors.

Can you think of any more???

Discussion Questions from Sunday Morning, April 10th

2011-04-11T14:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning, I had the very difficult task (for me anyway!) of preaching on a huge chunk of Scripture - Luke 23:32-56. Some of the most fascinating verses of Scripture throughout the Bible.

I covered all of the verses at once due to a last minute mission trip to Dubai that I am privileged to go on (and will therefore be out of the pulpit this Sunday), AND because I wanted to be preaching on the resurrection Easter Sunday morning (of course!).

You can watch, listen, or download the message here later today.

Here are some questions I hope will help you navigate through and apply the passage with more depth and insight:

1. Why is it important that we see how Jesus fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament?

2. Is it really a big deal that we believe Jesus was totally innocent when He was crucified? Why?

3. Could Jesus have ‘saved Himself’ from dying on the cross AND at the same time ‘saved others’? Why or why not?

4. How does the fact that Jesus told a wicked criminal that he would be with Him in Paradise give you hope?

5. Have you heard various thoughts about where one goes after they die? Have you heard various ideas as to where Jesus went when He died? How does Luke 23:43 resolve that?

6. What was it about the repentant criminal’s confession that made it authentic and effective for salvation?

7. What had the centurion witnessed in Jesus that caused him to praise God and declare Jesus’ innocence?

8. How have people seen “Christ in you” that would cause them to be shocked and changed like the centurion was?

9. Joseph of Arimathea, along with other women (see Luke 23:49 and Luke 8:1-3) sacrificially gave (time, reputation, money) for Jesus’ sake. What are some practical ways you can demonstrate your desire for Jesus to get the glory He deserves from all peoples?

Secret Church Simulcast at WBC !!!!

2011-04-04T15:27:00.000-07:00

I am extremely excited about hosting the Secret Church simulcast with Dr. David Platt on Good Friday - April 22nd, 2011.

Click here to register if you plan on coming to WBC's campus to watch.

Click here to find out more information about the simulcast.

We will be selling Platt's new book Radical Together: Unleashing the People of God for the Purpose of God for a discounted price before and after Secret Church. It promises to be another hard, yet needed and wonderful book.

Currently Reading - And THOROUGHLY Enjoying!!!

2011-04-04T15:15:00.000-07:00

I am currently reading several different books that I think would be of interest of anyone who 'happens' upon this blog. I post the links below, fyi...

King's Cross: The Story of the World in the Life of Jesus by Tim Keller

Tempted and Tried: Temptation and Triumph of Christ by Russell Moore

Onward: How Starbucks Fought For Its Life Without Losing Its Soul by Howard Shultz

Church Planter: The Man, The Mission, the Message by Darrin Patrick

About to begin:

God and Football: Faith and Fanaticism in the SEC by Chad Gibbs (Chad will be at WBC on April 28th, 2011 for 'The Main Event'!!!)

Confessions of a Reformission Rev: Hard Lessons from an Emerging Missional Church by Mark Driscoll (the WBC staff is going to read this together)

Random, Yet Helpful, Articles of Interest

2011-04-04T14:48:00.000-07:00

I have had good intentions of linking to some great posts/articles I have come across over the past week and a half or so. However, I haven't been 'radically intentional' (ha!) about it.

Below is a list of some very, very good articles/posts/videos that I encourage any and all to read for further edification and sanctification in Christ.

Enjoy!

To Love Your Neighbor, You Must Know Your Neighbor by Ben Stevens (Talk about being radically intentional!!!)

Functional Universalism video by David Platt (Talk about being SUPER 'radically intentional'!!!!!)

5 Ways to Make Your Kids Hate Church by Thomas Weaver

I See Your Crack by Katie Baker (Radically Intentional Modesty)

Transform Your Bible Reading by Dane Ortlund

Pride and Anxiety by Danny Franks

Above the Clouds by Danny Franks

A Mighty Rushing Wind by Danny Franks (my personal favorite)

Discussion Questions from Sermons Preached on April 3rd, 2011 at WBC

2011-04-04T14:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning I preached from Acts 2:42-47 in effort to cast a vision for the summer and our future here at WBC. You can watch, listen, and/or download the message here.

Here are some questions to help you further apply the truths presented:

1. What is the overlapping theme of the 4 actions they 'devoted' themselves to in Acts 2:42?

2. Do you think Luke was exaggerating in verse 44?

3. How can it be that "all" who were together had "all" things in common? How is that possible?

4. If they gave themselves to the apostles doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and the prayers - what might we learn from them as it relates to unity with our spouses? our children? our Christian friends? our Christian co-workers? our fellow WBC church members?

5. What do you think the outside community saw in these followers of Jesus that led to "the Lord adding to their number day by day those who were being saved"? (see Acts 2:47)

6. What might your neighbor see in you that would make him/her want what you have?

7. Other than church attendance, how is your life different from your neighbors/co-workers?

8. What might the city of Wynne see in us that would make them want what we have?

9. Do you plan to be a part of a 242 - Sharing Life Together small group this summer? Why or Why not?

Last night I preached an overview of the book of Micah. Click here to get the notes and/or watch, listen, download the message.

After listening to or watching the sermon, take 20 minutes to read through the book of Micah.

What are some characteristics of the LORD that cause you to be amazed in wonder, thinking "Who is like the Lord?"

How does knowing this about the LORD give you hope in the midst of what you are facing right now?

Florida Baptist Witness and Tom Elliff

2011-03-21T14:19:00.000-07:00

The Florida Baptist Witness reports Tom Elliffs vision and agenda in a Q and A session here.

This article also links to his address with the trustees last Wednesday morning, March 16th, 2011.

A portion (perhaps my favorite part!):

"When you speak of unreached people groups, you editors are very well informed on this because I know you follow closely what we do. But you know that there are 6,734 unreached people groups. Now we would consider an unreached people group [to be] a group of people, an affinity group, that they are ethno-linguistically similar, that does not have at least two percent of the population in what we'd call the evangelical faith. Now that's an unreached people group. Of that 6,734 that we currently know, 3,800 are what we'd call unengaged people groups. That means no one has taken it upon themselves to draw up a deliberate strategy, take the Gospel on the ground there. They're unengaged. They're not unengaged by the soft drink industry. They're already in there. They're not unengaged by the pornography industry. They're already in there. And that's a shame. If anybody ought to care more about their product, so to speak, than the soft drink industry and porn industry, it ought to be believers in Christ. How in the world can we let these people be unengaged?

"So I will be bringing to the convention in Phoenix a proposal that brings together many of the elements that are already in place with the International Mission Board. Our church and partner services have worked on how do we engage these people. They have all the pieces. We're going to put these together and by the grace of God, beginning with this year's convention within 12 months we pray that at least 3,800 churches in the Southern Baptist Convention–that's not even a tenth of our churches, would cowboy up and say, 'We are going to strategize, we're going to pray, and we're going to do everything we can with the ultimate goal of seeing that there are boots on the ground among those people.' And I think it would be a wonderful thing if the day came when many, many churches across our convention had missionaries among churches appointed by the IMB on the field in those people groups, doing nothing but coordinate the work of their churches among those people. That would be a dream come true."

May it be, Lord. May it be.

Russell Moore on Why Hell is Forever

2011-03-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

Very good and intriguing article by Moore here.

He offers two reasons on why hell is forever:

"First, the revolt against God is more serious than we think it is. An insurrection against an infinitely worthy Creator is an infinitely heinous offense. We know something of this intuitively. This is why, in our human sentences of justice, we sentence a man to one punishment for threatening to kill his co-worker and another man to a much more severe punishment for threatening to kill the nation’s president.

"Second, and more important, is the nature of the punishment itself. The sinner in hell does not become morally neutral upon his sentence to hell. We must not imagine the damned displaying gospel repentance and longing for the presence of Christ. They do indeed, as in the story of the rich man and Lazarus, seek for an escape from punishment, but they are not new creations. They do not in hell love the Lord their God with heart, mind, soul, and strength.

"Instead, in hell, one is now handed over to the full display of his nature apart from grace. And this nature is seen to be satanic (Jn. 8:44). The condemnation continues forever and ever, because the sin does too. Hell is the final “handing over” (Rom. 1) of the rebel to who he wants to be, and it’s awful."

Ways to Pray for IMB President, Tom Elliff

2011-03-21T10:04:00.000-07:00

Last night I gave the WBC congregation seven ways we (as requested by him when he addressed the IMB trustees last week in Dallas, TX) as a church and a convention can be praying for Tom Elliff, the newly elected President of the International Mission Board.

Here are the seven requests:

1. Illuming awareness that he is an ambassador for Christ.

2. Pure heart.

3. Fullness of the Spirit.

4. Exhibit gifts and graces of the Spirit.

5. Never unwittingly place in Satan's hands a weapon to use to mock Jesus.

6. Protection from Satanic attacks toward family.

7. To be kept faithful to the vision.

How does Tom Elliff frame his sense of mission? By asking three questions framed around the Great Commission:

1. Is it biblical?

2. Is it balanced?

3. Is it bold?

You can read his entire acceptance speech here.

Interview with New NAMB President, Kevin Ezell

2011-03-21T09:48:00.001-07:00

As mentioned last night in my address (if it's not a sermon, what would you call it???), I said that I would link to a recent interview Southern Seminary did with the newly elected President of the North American Mission Board (NAMB), Kevin Ezell.

That interview can be found here for audio and here for video.

I also mentioned that you could receive the Arkansas Baptist News no on-line. The most recent edition has a detailed article regaridng the 'massive overhaul' happening within the NAMB.

Click here to check an article with Ezell and click here to go to the home page for Arkansas Baptist News.

MUST LISTEN AUDIO!!!

2011-03-18T04:58:00.000-07:00

Calling all evangelical Christians (especially members of Wynne Baptist Church):

Southern Seminary in Louisville, KY has done the church another HUGE favor by hosting a panel with four leading evangelical thinkers on the Rob Bell issue and his new book "Love Wins."

Al Mohler, Russell Moore, Denny Burk, and Justin Taylor sit on the panel.

Click here to the link where you can download the audio and/or watch the video.

It is very academic and around 90 minutes long. But I believe this is well worth your time, not just to know about Bell and what he purports in his book, but about much that evangelicals must be clear on in the days ahead. For our own souls, for generations coming along behind us, and for the glory of Christ.

Thank you Southern Seminary for helping the church!

My Parents Celebrate 40 Years of Marriage

2011-03-16T05:13:00.000-07:00

Over at her blog, my mom writes a tribute to my dad (and to the Lord!) for 40 years of marriage. What an amazing work of the grace of God to me in giving me the parents He did.

Here is how she concludes (perhaps you can get a taste as to why my dad is my hero):

"I'm very excited to be celebrating 40 years with this amazing man. There are some particularly remarkable attributes of his that I'd like to share with you.
1) Steve is a committed follower of Christ and spends time daily in prayer and Bible reading. The children and I have reaped blessings untold as a result.
2) Steve has always given me security and stability because I knew he would do whatever it took to provide what the children and I needed. In the early days of starting his vet practice in Hartselle, I knew in my heart that he would take a second job sacking groceries if there wasn't enough business through the clinic.
3) Not for a single minute in these 40 years have I ever had to doubt his love for me, or his faithfulness to me and to our marriage. What a precious gift that has been and continues to be. I have no doubt that he has read the Book of Proverbs at least 100 times in his life, and I have personally benefited from his commitment to the principles in Proverb 5:15-18:
Drink water from your own cistern, and fresh water from your own well.
Should your springs be dispersed abroad, streams of water in the streets?
Let them be yours alone, and not for strangers with you.
Let your fountain be blessed and rejoice in the wife of your youth.
4) Steve Pearson is a model husband, father, and grandfather. I love him with all my heart. I am blessed beyond measure to be his wife, and I would be so happy to spend 40 MORE years with him. Happy Anniversary, hon."

Kevin DeYoung Reviews and Responds to Rob Bell's 'Love Wins'

2011-03-14T07:16:00.001-07:00

Kevin DeYoung has written a very thorough and thought-provoking review of Rob Bell's book Love Wins.

Click here to read the entire thing (it's long). It will even allow you to download it as a PDF file.

Here is how he concludes:

"Just as damaging is the impact of 'Love Wins' on the nonbeliever or the wayward former churchgoer. Instead of summoning sinners to the cross that they might flee the wrath to come and know the satisfaction of so great a salvation, 'Love Wins' assures people that everyone’s eternity ends up as heaven eventually. The second chances are good not just for this life, but for the next. And what if they aren’t? What if Jesus says on the day of judgment, “Depart from me, I never knew you” (Matt. 7:23)? What if at the end of the age the wicked and unbelieving cry out, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb” (Rev. 6:16)? What if outside the walls of the New Jerusalem “are the dogs and sorcerers and the sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood” (Rev. 22:15)? What if there really is only one name “under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12)? And what if the wrath of God really remains on those who do not believe in the Son (John 3:18, 36)?

"If 'Love Wins' is wrong—if the theology departs from the apostolic good deposit, if the biblical reasoning falls short in a hundred places, if the god of 'Love Wins' and the gospel of 'Love Wins' are profoundly mistaken—if all this is true, then what damage has been done to the souls of men and women?

"Bad theology hurts real people. So of all the questions raised in the book, the most important question every reader must answer is this: is it true? Whatever you think of all the personalities involved on whatever side of the debate, that’s the one question that cannot be ignored. Is Love Wins true to the word of God? That’s the issue. Open a Bible, pray to God, listen to the faithful Christians of the past 2000 years, and answer the question for yourself."

Thoughts?

Discussion Question from March 13th, 2011 PM Sermon

2011-03-14T07:08:00.000-07:00

Last night I continued the series through the "Not So Minor Minor Prophets." We looked into the life of Jonah and what I considered to be the entire purpose of the book. You can watch, listen, or download the message here later today.

The title of the message was "Have a Corona with Jonah and Watch the World Go to Hell" and I focused on Jonah 4.

I leave you with one question based on this text and last night's message:

"Why Not Go?"

Discussion Questions from March 13th, 2011 Morning Sermon

2011-03-14T06:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday at WBC, continuing through Luke, I preached on Luke 23:18-25. The title of the message was "Missing Verse, Divine Murder, and Barabbas...What in the World?" You can watch, listen, or download the podcast here later today.

After having heard the message, here are some questions to aid in your continued application and understanding of the text.

1. Who ultimately was responsible for the killing of Jesus? What Scriptures can you use to verify your answer?

2. Why is this good news?

3. Read Proverbs 17:15. Did God commit an abomination against Himself? Why or why not?

4. How is what goes in this account with Barabbas a picture of the heart of the Gospel?

5. What does this text reveal about the heart of God for awful sinners?

6. How would 'counsel' a wife of one of the men whom Barabbas murdered who 'just happened' to be in the crowd the day Barabbas was released? How might you lead her in a discussion of the Gospel, knowing that God directed and ordered the whole thing?

7. Are there those in your life right now that you are refusing to forgive? How does the story of Barabbas free you to forgive others?

One of the Most Important Paragraphs I Have Read Recently (Outside the Bible)

2011-03-13T14:44:00.001-07:00

From J. I. Packer and Mark Dever's In My Place Condemned He Stood: Celebrating the Glory of the Atonement.

"Early in the visionary chapters of the book of Revelation, where images are prodigally piled up, one on another, in order to convey thoughts to readers' minds, the Lord Jesus announced as 'the Lion of the tribe of Judah' who will open the scroll for the consummation of world history (5:5). But the Lion appears not as a lion but as 'a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain' (v. 6 ESV). The Lamb appears thereafter twenty-eight more times, battling, conquering, shepherding, and finally functioning as the lamp that gives permanent light to his bride, the holy city, new Jerusalem, that is, the church perfected in glory (21:23, cf. 22:1-5). In this book, then, the slain Lamb is the key image for the Lord Jesus Christ. Where did it come from? Clearly, from (1) the Passover lamb, the blood of which shielded Israel from the destroyer at the time of the Exodus, plus (2) the God-prescribed ritual of killing a lamb, with the transgressor's hand on its head, as a sin offering (Lev. 4:32-35), plus (3) the required daily sacrifice of two lambs as sinful Israel's offering to its holy god (Ex. 29:38-42; Num. 28:3-6), plus (4) Isaiah's description of God's servant, the vicarious sufferer who became a sin offering, as being led 'like a Lamb...to the slaughter' (Isa. 53:7), plus (5) John the Baptist's identification of Jesus as 'the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world' (John 1:29, 36). And for the Lamb to be the lamp of the city of God means that the thought of the Son of God made flesh and slaughtered for our sins in order to save us will never leave the minds of glorified saints as they fellowshi with the Father and the Son and will frame all their thinking about everything else.

"So all we who hope for the life of heaven ourselves, and especially those among us who as pastors are statedly committed to prepare others for that heavenly life, will do well to adjust our thinking here and now to the absolute and abiding centrality of the atoning cross in Christian life here and hereafter and to labor to express this awareness in all our preaching, teaching, and modeling of Christianity, day by day."

Very, very thought provoking and would serve us well to 'chew on' for a while.

Order the book from Amazon here.

Surprised By Grace: God's Relentless Pursuit of Rebels

2011-03-13T05:40:00.000-07:00

In preparation of tonight's message on Jonah, I got some help from Tullian Tchividjian who wrote Surprised by Grace: God's Relentless Pursuit of Rebels.

Click here to order the book from Amazon.

The quote I plan to read tonight came from an interview done with Tchividjian regarding the book. I thought it provided a good summary of how the book of Jonah points us to Christ.

The interview, called "The Gospel According to Jonah" is here.

The quote is here:

“Jesus says that he is 'greater than Jonah.' He is the greater-than-Jonah who succeeded where Jonah failed. For instance, in sending Jonah as his messenger to sinful Nineveh, God showed his boundless grace and faithfulness. But centuries later, God sent another messenger to sinful mankind. Only this messenger went willingly and joyfully because he knew the heart of God. In fact, he was the heart of God. He would be called “the Word” because he himself was God’s message. He was everything God wanted to say to the world—all wrapped up in a person.
Instead of fleeing from God’s call in rebellion and running away from his enemies, this new messenger ran toward his enemies, in full submission to his Father’s will, despite what it would cost him. For 'we were enemies' of God (Rom. 5:10)—all of us—so much so that we rejected and crucified his Son.

"Fully knowing that this death was his destiny, this new messenger nevertheless pursued God’s rescue mission with a totally engaged heart. 'For the joy that was set before him,' the Bible tells us, he 'endured the cross' (Heb. 12:2) so that God’s enemies, you and I, could become God’s friends.

"Like Jonah thrown overboard, this new messenger would be a sacrifice, with the result that others were saved.

"This new messenger, like Jonah, would spend three days in utter darkness. But unlike Jonah, he would emerge with wholehearted determination to pursue his enemies with life-giving love. He went on this mission because he wanted to—not because he had to.

"When God’s mercy was shown to Jonah and to his enemies, Jonah was intensely angered. But this new messenger was the happy extension of God’s grace toward his enemies—not angry and embittered, but 'anointed . . . with the oil of gladness' (Heb. 1:9). Jonah is all about self-protection; this new messenger is all about joyful self-sacrifice. So Jesus and his Good News, rescue of sinners, is all over this story of Jonah."

"Oh Mya, Obadiah! Can God Really Do That?" Sermon Discussion Questions

2011-03-07T19:25:00.000-08:00

Last night, the minor prophet Obadiah was introduced and overviewed from the WBC pulpit. If you missed the service, click here to watch, listen, or download the podcast.

Some discussion questions based on the message:

1. Does God have enemies? How do you know that? Would our society agree with this? Why or why not?

2. How do you know whether or not you are God's enemy or God's friend?

3. Edom was guilty in putting their hope/trust/security in things other than God (see Obadiah 1:2-4). Ask the Lord if there are areas in your heart and life that you look to for security other than Him. What should you do to adjust that?

4. How does the book of Obadiah show that God is sovereign even over sin? How might it seem as if God is being unjust in condemning Edom for doing what they did? If God is not unjust in what He did, how do we reconcile that?

5. How can it encourage us to know that God will always, without fail, fight for His children?

6. If the kingdom is the LORD's (see Obadiah 1:21) and Jesus is the King of God's kingdom (see Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), how does one get to be a subject of the kingdom of God? (See John 3:36)

"As For Me, Where Could I Go With My Shame?" Sermon Discussion Questions

2011-03-07T18:58:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning I preached from Luke 22:63-23:16. I also discussed how to apply what was going on in the Luke text from an Old Testament passage, 2 Samuel 13. If you missed the sermon, you can catch it here later today or tomorrow.

Some questions to aid in your own personal application:

1. Read through Luke 22:63-23:16 again. What are some "key words" from your own personal vocabulary that come to mind as you read?

2. Why do you think Luke continues to stress that the authorities understood Jesus to be "not guilty"?

3. Read through 2 Samuel 13 again. What words come to mind as you think about Tamar's shame and what happened to her?

4. Read 2 Samuel 13:12-13. How would you answer Tamar's question?

5. What about areas in your own life where you are hiding shame? Where can you go with your shame?

6. Read Isaiah 53:4-6. How are you trying to 'prove yourself' to God? In what ways have you not, by faith, transferred your guilt and shame 'deserved punishment' over to Jesus?

Tim Keller said, "Jesus Christ is the Creator who came here not to smite us, but to be un-created so we could be re-created. . . the maker who came to be un-made so we could be re-made . . . the judge who came not to bring judgment, but to bear judgment, to take what we deserve so the Holy Spirit could come into our lives, once our sins are forgiven, and begin to remake us.”

7. What is preventing you from being set free? How is the Holy Spirit remaking you?

Evangelism Books Recommended During Church-Wide Sunday School

2011-03-07T15:09:00.001-08:00

Following Kirk Owens' very good and practical teaching on helping equip us being better evangelists, I recommended two books relating to personal evangelism.

The first was The Gospel and Personal Evangelism by Mark Dever.

Click here to order from Amazon.

The second was Marks of a Messenger by J. Mack Stiles.

Click here to order from Amazon.

Also, Kirk referenced another helpful book as it relates to improving personal evangelism tools. He mentioned Questioning Evangelism by Randy Newman.

Click here to order it from Amazon.

'Rid of My Disgrace' - Book Referenced During Yesterday Morning's Message

2011-03-07T15:01:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning, I quoted (several times) from a new book I have been reading entitled Rid of My Disgrace: Hope and Healing for Victims of Sexual Assault by Justin and Lindsey Holcomb.

Click here to order the book from Amazon.

The quotes I read yesterday:

“Tragically (Tamar’s) experience includes manipulation, force, violence, negation of her will, emotional trauma, debilitating loss of sense of self, display of grief and mourning, crushing shame, degradation, forced silence, and prolonged social isolation with desolation. Tamar’s social and personal boundaries are clearly violated. . . .
The effects of Tamar’s assault are disgrace, shame, and reproach. After the assault, Tamar is privately and publicly traumatized by shame. . . .
It is clear in several verses that Amnon’s actions of assault are violating, shameful, forceful, and humiliating. Violence permeates his words and actions. The words used to describe Amnon’s feelings and physical state express sick emotions rather than life-giving ones…Amnon reduces Tamar to the state of a ‘disposable object.’ After he assaults Tamar, Amnon commands her to leave by telling his servant, ‘Get this woman out of my sight.’ Other translations say, ‘Throw this woman out.’ Amnon barely speaks of her as a person. She is a thing Amnon wants to throw out. To him, Tamar is trash.”

“Tamar’s robe is a special symbol of her elevated social status; however, she tears her robe. The rending of clothes-often articulated biblically as ‘sackcloth and ashes’ – is an act of grievous affliction, revealing the sorrow of the heart, and is an expression of loss and lament. Tamar had her dignity torn from her, and the invasion is now expressed with physical gestures. The narrator describes Tamar as a person. But after this violation, her beauty is exchanged for feelings of shame and loss expressed through symbols of emotional distress. Tamar has become a person who has experienced loss of control over her body, over her life, and over her dignity.”

“Jesus Christ was killed, not for revenge but to bear her shame on the cross and to offer her a new robe of righteousness to replace her torn robes of disgrace. How Tamar felt after the assault, described in verse 19, is shockingly similar to what Jesus experienced leading up to and during His crucifixion. Jesus entered her pain and shame as Tamar’s substitute to remove the stain of sins committed against her, and he rose from the dead to bring her healing and hope.”

New York Times on the Rob Bell Controversy

2011-03-05T13:52:00.001-08:00

Interesting article by Erik Eckholm of the New York Times on Rob Bell's new book.

The article is titled, "Pastor Stirs Wrath With His Views on Old Questions".

A particularly intringuing comment from Eckholm:

"Judging from an advance copy, the 200-page book is unlikely to assuage Mr. Bell’s critics. In an elliptical style, he throws out probing questions about traditional biblical interpretations, mixing real-life stories with scripture.

"Much of the book is a sometimes obscure discussion of the meaning of heaven and hell that tears away at the standard ideas. In his version, heaven is something that begins here on earth, in a life of goodness, and hell seems more a condition than an eternal fate — “the very real consequences we experience when we reject all the good and true and beautiful life that God has for us.”

So, from a secular author (I know nothing of Eckholm's religious affiliation...I am basing this off of his writing for a secular organization) who has read Bell's book hell seems more of a "condition than an eternal fate."

It continues to stir. Thoughts?

Currently Reading - Tim Keller's "King's Cross: The Story of the World in the Life of Jesus"

2011-03-03T06:36:00.000-08:00

To think more often and deeply about the Person of Jesus, I am currently slowly reading through Tim Keller's new book entitled King's Cross. Click here to order it from Amazon.

In it Keller walks his readers through the Gospel of Mark, offering superb thoughts, insight, and commentary.

A quote I read this morning from a thought he had on Mark 1:14-15:

"Jesus says, 'The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!' What is the good news of the kingdom of God? In the book of Genesis chapters 1-2, we see that we were created to live in a world in which all relationships were whole - psychologically and socially perfect - because God was the King. But Genesis chapter 3 tells the next part of our story: that we have each chosen to be our own king. We have gone the way of self-centeredness. And self-centeredness destroys relationships. There's nothing that makes you more miserable (or less interesting) than self-absorption: How am I feeling, how am I doing, how are people treating me, am I proving myself, am I succeeding , am I failing, am I being treated justly? Self-absorption leaves us static; there's nothing more disintegrating. Why do we have wars? Class struggle? Family breakdown? Why are our relationships constantly exploding? It's the darkness of self-centeredness. When we decide to be our own center, our own king, everything falls apart: physically, socially, spiritually, and psychologically. We have left the dance. But we all long to be brought back in. This longing is embedded in the legends of many cultures, and though the stories are all different they all have a similar theme: A true king will come back, slay the dragon, kiss us and wake us out of our sleep of death, rescue us from imprisonment in the tower, lead us back into the dance. A true king will come back to put everything right and renew the entire world. The good news of the kingdom of God is this: Jesus is that true King."

Book and Video Referenced During Thursday Morning's "The League"

2011-03-03T06:22:00.000-08:00

I am really enjoying the time with the 25 or so men on Thursday morning's as we read and discuss Darrin Patrick's Church Planter: The Man, The Message, the Mission along with other pertinent and related (sometimes!) issues. It is good for my soul to talk about the Gospel and how it applies in various areas of life and ministry.

This morning, in light of our discussion of the Gospel and Patrick's book - chapter 8 - I mentioned one of the best books on Jesus' Passion and atonement I have ever read. John Stott's The Cross of Christ is a must read. I encouraged the men present to order it from Amazon when they got home and have it ready to read through during the Easter season. Click here and go straight to it at Amazon.

I began the morning by showing a video about Robertson McQuilkin speaking on behalf of his love and devotion to his wife. Click here to see the video and link to the accompanying articles I gave out today.

May McQuilkin's tribe increase!!!

Thinking about Universalism and Hell is Healthy

2011-03-01T09:23:00.000-08:00

Regardless of what you and I think about the whole Rob Bell controversy, I do believe it is very healthy for us (conservative, evangelical Christians) to think through issues like universalism and hell. The trajectory of our nation and world are forcing us to have good, solid, biblically based answers to hard, difficult, postmodern questions.

Two more places that I have found helpful in recent days to think through these things carefully are:

Danny Franks' blog post here entitled "Hell? Yes."

[Note: Even though it is a very serious post, Danny is one of the funniest men I know. I would put the coffee mug down if I were you while reading ANYTHING he writes....enjoy, and, trust me.]

At one point, Franks very wisely notes:

"This isn’t a doctrine to gloat over. I fear that many pastors, bloggers, and armchair theologians will use the Rob Bell controversy to prove once again that they’re cackling pharisees waiting to blast someone for error. If Bell proves to be a universalist, that’s most certainly an error. But universalism isn’t something for us to be self-righteous over, it’s something for us to weep over. Heaven and hell are on the line, and we can’t waste our time getting into heated debates in blog comments. We must be all the more passionate about clearly sharing the gospel and calling people to repentance."

And Tim Keller titled "The Importance of Hell" linked here.

He offers four reasons as to why it is so important:

1. It is important because Jesus taught about it more than all other Biblical authors put together.

2. It is important because it shows how infinitely dependent we are on God for everything.

3. It is important because it unveils the seriousness and danger of living life for yourself.

4. The doctrine of hell is important because it is the only way to know how much Jesus loved us and how much he did for us.

So, at the end of the day, regardless of Rob Bell is on the issue (and I hope and pray I am wrong in my own assessments, or if I am correct, he will repent), I think it will serve all of us well to think through these matters biblically and from wise and biblically saturated advisors.

Al Mohler on the Rob Bell Deal

2011-03-01T09:18:00.000-08:00

If you have followed this blog for any period of time, this probably goes without saying. But if Dr. Al Mohler writes it, I usually try my best to read it. At his web-site in the section "Marked Urgent," he weighs in on the Rob Bell discussion. You can link to the article here.

A portion that is especially helpful:

"The publicity surrounding Bell’s new book indicates that he is ready to answer one of the hardest questions — the question of the exclusivity of the Gospel of Christ. With that question come the related questions of heaven, hell, judgment, and the fate of the unregenerate. The Bible answers these questions clearly enough, but few issues are as hard to reconcile with the modern or postmodern mind than this. Of course, it was hard to reconcile with the ancient mind as well. The singularity of the person and work of Christ and the necessity of personal faith in him for salvation run counter to the pluralistic bent of the human mind, but this is nothing less than the wisdom of God and the power of God unto salvation...

"The Emerging Church movement is known for its slick and sophisticated presentation. It wears irony and condescension as normal attire. Regardless of how Rob Bell’s book turns out, its promotion is the sad equivalent of a theological striptease.
The Gospel is too precious and important to be commodified in this manner. The questions he asks are too important to leave so tantalizingly unanswered. Universalism is a heresy, not a lure to use in order to sell books. This much we know, almost a month before the book is to be released."

Disciple Man Talks about Gluttony

2011-02-28T14:32:00.000-08:00

This article I believe is a must read for all believers, especially for Southern Baptists (me!). It is something we don't like to talk about and/or deal with, but something that I believe has been interfering with our relationship with God in unfathomable ways.

Here are some quotes I thought were helpful:

"...I was a glutton. An idolater. I had an idol in my life. An idol is anything that has more control over you than God does. I was a slave to food. And even now, even after all of that, I still struggle to keep food in its proper place in my life. We need to eat to live, not live to eat."

"Idolatry comes in many forms. It can show itself in more obvious ways. If you watch TV for hours on end, but never open your Bible you have an idol in your life. If you can not put the cigarettes down, knowing full well they are destroying your health, you have an idol. If you love your children more than you do your Savior… you have an idol! (Matthew 10:37)"

"And there is a flip side to all of this too. Being a 'health and fitness fanatic' can turn into idolatry too! Some people, while thinking that they are encouraging others to eat healthy, are really just heaping unnecessary guilt on them. There is a fine line between encouraging and gloating, and sometimes pride will sneak in there. It’s very subtle. Examine your heart before you “spur others on” to healthier living. All things should be done in love."

"And my friend, part of pursuing holiness sometimes means putting down the fork. Sometimes it means getting on a tread mill."

Paul Tripp on Confession

2011-02-28T14:26:00.000-08:00

Over at Desiring God, Paul Tripp has posted Part 1 of an article on Confession.

Click here and it will take you directly to it.

A portion:

"Here is the point: no change takes place in a relationship that does not begin with confession. The problem for many of us is we look at confession as a burden, when it is actually a grace."

Book Referenced Last Night - 'Generous Justice' by Timothy Keller

2011-02-28T09:01:00.000-08:00

Last night, during my message on Amos and the ensuing discussion regarding social justice, I referenced a book by Tim Keller entitled Generous Jusice: How God's Grace Makes Us Just.

So far, from what I have read (I am about half-way through the book), it is very very helpful.

One quote that I failed to read last night, due to time, was a quote Keller offers from a Scottish minister early in the nineteenth century:

"Now, dear Christians, some of you pray night and day to be branches of the true Vine; you pray to be made all over in the image of Christ. If so, you must be like him in giving. . . . 'Though he was rich, yet for our sakes he became poor' . . . . Objection 1: 'My money is my own.' Answer: Christ might have said, 'My blood is my own,' my life is my own.' . . . then where should we have been? Objection 2: 'The poor are undeserving.' Answer: Christ might have said, 'They are wicked rebels. . . . shall I lay down my life for these? I will give to the good angels.' But no, he left the ninety-nine, and came after the lost. Have gave His blood for the undserving. Objection 3: 'The poor may abuse it.' Answer: Christ might have said the same; yea, with far greater truth. Christ knew that thousands would trample His blood under their feet; that most would despise it; that many would make it an excuse for sinning more; yet He gave His own blood. Oh my dear Christians! If you would be like Christ, give much, give often, give freely, to the vile and poor, the thankless and the undeserving. Christ is glorious and happy and so will you be. it is not your money I want, but your happiness. Remember His own word, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" (pages 107-108).

Not So Famous Amos - Discussion Questions from February 27th, 2011 PM Sermon

2011-02-28T08:48:00.001-08:00

Last night I continued with sermon #3 in a series through the Minor Prophets. Last night, the prophet who was the focus of our attention was Amos.

You can watch or listen to the overview of this book of the Bible here later today.

Some questions to pique your thoughts and interest in this much too neglected, but all too important Bible book:

1. What was unique about Amos and his calling to prophesy to the people of God?

2. How does 'doing' social justice reflect the character of God?

3. How could Bro. Matt state that how one treats the poor is a direct reflection as to how one understands their relationship with God?

4. How does the book of Amos point us to Jesus?

5. Which of the 5 "Amos Attitudes" mentioned by Bro. Matt most grips your heart?

6. In what ways do you need to repent having read through the book of Amos (assuming you hvae taken the time to actually read through the book)?

Some Discussion Questions from February 27th, 2011 Morning Sermon

2011-02-28T08:35:00.000-08:00

Continuing in our study of Luke's Gospel, I had the privilege of digging a bit deeper in Peter's three denials of Jesus. The text was Luke 22:54-65. The title of the sermon was "Peter, Pain, and Mercy." It can be watched and/or listened to here later today (Lord willing).

Some questions to aid in your understanding and application a bit further:

1. What does this passage teach us about ourselves as humans?

2. What does this passage teach us about God and Jesus?

3. In what ways do you find yourself denying the Person of Jesus in order to protect/save your own reputation and honor?

4. In what ways has God allowed horrific, confusing, and unexplainable circumstances to occur in your life in order to make you into the person He has created you to be?

5. Bro. Matt read a poem by William Cowper yesterday entitled "God Moves in a Mysterious Way." How does this poem capture the point of the passage/sermon?

God moves in a mysterious way

His wonders to perform;

He plants his footsteps in the sea,

And rides upon the storm.

Deep in unfathomable mines

Of never failing skill,

He treasures up his bright designs

And works his sovereign will.

Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take,

The clouds ye so much dread

Are big with mercy,

and shall breakIn blessings on your head.

Judge not the lord by feeble sense,

But trust him for his grace;

behind a frowning providence

He hides a smiling face.

His purpose will ripen fast,

Unfolding every hour;

the bud may have bitter taste,

But sweet will be the flower.

Blind unbelief is sure to err,

And scan his work in vain:

God is his own interpreter,

And He will make it plain.

[For a brief, yet potent, treatment of Cowper see John Piper's The Hidden Smile of God ]

What's Going on With Rob Bell?

2011-02-28T08:21:00.000-08:00

Last night I showed a video clip promoting Rob Bell's new book entitled Love Wins: Heaven, Hell, and the Fate of Every Person Who has Ever Lived.

I got the clip and the blurb from the book here (Justin Taylor's blog).

I have sense come across a couple of other insightful and (in my opinion) helpful responses to this perceived trajectory toward blatant universalism.

Joshua Harris weighs in with his thoughts here.

Denny Burk with his thoughts here.

Kevin DeYoung posts some thoughts on hell here.

Zach Nielson's very wise and provoking thoughts on the whole matter as it relates to our hearts are here.

I would love to know what some of you think. With Joshua Harris, I too hope I am dead wrong and come out looking stupid for some of the things I said last night. But until shown otherwise, I will do all I can to help protect the sheep from being devoured by wolves.

Is Church Membership Really THAT Important?

2011-02-26T06:08:00.000-08:00

I recently read Biblical Foundations for Baptist Churches by Dr. John Hammett. Hammett is the professor of Systematic Theology and the Associate Dean of Theological Studies at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. The book was recommended to me highly be Dr. Al Jackson, pastor of Lakeview Baptist Church in Auburn, Alabama. Anyone who knows me understands that if Al Jackson recommends that a pastor should read something, I run to read it! Needless to say, Hammett's book was a fascinating and intriguing read and has prompted my thinking on a lot of different issues related to membership in Baptist churches, in particular the one God has entrused me to lead.

Thus, I was intrigued to read that Matt Capps recently posted an interview with Dr. Hammett over at his blog. The interview is divided into five questions/parts:

1. Is local church membership really that important, is it even biblical?
2. In your opinion, what are the requirements one must meet for local church membership?
3. What are the privileges of being a member of a local church?
4. What are the responsibilities of being a member of a local church?
5. What, if any, are valid reasons for parting ways with a local church?

Below are the links to each of the parts:

From the introduction:

“Church membership is something that can be misunderstood. It’s not the same thing as the gospel, and certainly doesn’t guarantee someone’s place in heaven. But consider this – On a typical Sunday morning, of the more than 16 million members of Southern Baptist churches across the country, more than 10 million will not be present in a local church, that’s less than 40%. Where are they? Some are sick or on vacation, but many simply choose not to come, and have made that choice consistently for years. Somewhere along the line they joined a church, but their life shows no evidence that they know Christ. My fear is that they think somehow their church membership guarantees them access into heaven, but being a church member doesn’t necessarily mean you’re a genuine follower of Jesus. It should, but in many churches it doesn’t.

"Not only can church membership be misunderstood, it can also become meaningless. Churches where more than 60% of the members never even come and whose lives shows no sign of Christ’s presence make membership a meaningless mockery and expose such churches to the charge that they are full of hypocrites. All you can say is, “you’re right.” Church membership doesn’t guarantee that someone will live a Christ-honoring life. So some churches have deemphasized church membership. It doesn’t save you, and doesn’t make someone a better person, so what’s the value? While I want to keep the main thing the main thing, there can also be secondary things that have significant value. I think church membership is one of those secondary things.”

Children and Baptism

2011-02-26T06:00:00.000-08:00

John Starke writes:

"The question among Baptists over whether to baptize small children is sensitive, and I’ve gone back and forth on it. There are several pastoral difficulties, and parents face many questions that they don’t often feel equipped to answer. Local churches who take conversion and church membership seriously have often taken a more conservative stance by implementing a certain age (say, 10, 15, or 18) before baptizing a child in order to guard against giving a young child false assurance or baptizing someone who isn’t truly converted."

Starke then proceeds and argues to go ahead and baptize. Click here for his take.

Trevin Wax argues it best to wait. Click here for his.

What do you think?

Christianity Today Weighs in on the Boy/Girl Wrestling Debate

2011-02-24T15:27:00.000-08:00

According to Justin Taylor (over at his blog):

"Caryn Rivadeneira argues not only that it is permissible for a boy to wrestle a girl in an athletic competition, but that the example of Jesus toward women requires that he do so! You can read her full argument to see if you find it biblically compelling, faithful, or wise."

Taylor proceeds to agree with Mohler's article on the issue and links to a piece John Piper wrote regarding this sort of thing a while back.

What do you think?

Tragic Trajectory

2011-02-24T06:12:00.001-08:00

Again, Dr. Al Mohler writes a much needed response evangelicals need to seriously think through and evaluate. This time he addresses President Barack Obama's decision regarding DOMA.

Read the entire article here.

His conclusion:

"The most immediate meaning of this announcement is two-fold. In the first place, it means that the constitutionally appointed defender of the nation’s laws, the Attorney General of the United States, has now been ordered to cease defending this single law in the courts. That alone is almost surely sufficient to spell the doom of DOMA in short order.

"In the second place, this announcement means that President Obama and his advisers now believe that the full legalization of same-sex marriage is both inevitable and without major political risk to the President and his plans for re-election. That, in itself, represents a moral earthquake. The President clearly believes that a sufficient number of Americans will either support or accept same-sex marriage — and this comes just a few years after a majority of the states passed constitutional amendments prohibiting same-sex marriage, and most by huge margins.

"The President has made his decision. The Attorney General has now made his announcement. Mark your calendars for yesterday. That day now represents a tragic milestone in the betrayal of marriage."

Dr. Mohler on Boys Wrestling Girls

2011-02-22T11:17:00.000-08:00

I thought this article was extremely intriguing and very well done.

Click here to read the whole thing by Dr. Al Mohler.

Here is his conclusion:

"This is insanity masquerading as athletic competition. The controversy over the Iowa state wrestling tournament reveals the fact that this debate represents a clash of worlds and worldviews. In one world — the world that increasingly demands the total erasure of distinctions between men and women — Joel Northrup is considered to be a religious nut. In this world, it makes sense that girls wrestle against boys and that society should celebrate this new development as a milestone in the struggle to free ourselves from the limitations of all gender roles. As if to make this point impossible to miss, Bill Herkelman, Cassy’s father, said: 'She’s my son. She’s always been my son.'

In the other world, Joel Northrup is seen as a young man of brave and noble conscience — a boy who defaulted a match rather than violate his conscience. The statements offered by Joel and his father are seen as moments of temporary sanity in a world going increasingly mad. The chivalry demonstrated at great personal cost by this boy athlete is to be celebrated, affirmed, and acknowledged as being deeply rooted in his Christian convictions — convictions about gender, modesty, the treatment of girls and women, propriety, decorum, and sexual purity.

In Rick Reilly’s world, and in accord with his worldview, it makes sense to say, 'Body slams and takedowns and gouges in the eye and elbows in the ribs are exactly how to respect Cassy Herkelman.'

In Joel Northrup’s world, and in accord with his worldview, that statement is nothing less than insanity.

I, for one, am proud to know of a boy and a family who refuse to consider girls and women as proper opponents on a wrestling mat — opponents to be bloodied, gouged, and slammed. Joel Northrup may have defaulted a match, but he refused to sacrifice his Christian conscience for a moment of earthly glory.

The general direction of the culture is clear: we are moving out of Joel Northrup’s world into Rick Reilly’s world. Along the way, something immeasurably more important than a wrestling match is about to be defaulted."

Christian Divorce Rate Myth

2011-02-21T09:58:00.000-08:00

I was so glad to see this article by Glenn Stanton at the Baptist Press (thanks to the link by Tim Challies).

He begins his article with this truth claim:

"Many people who seriously practice a traditional religious faith -- be it Christian or other -- have a divorce rate markedly lower than the general population."

May the rates drop lower and lower and lower as followers of Jesus marry as we are commanded.

McCheyne on Personal Prayer

2011-02-21T09:31:00.000-08:00

This past Thursday morning during The League (a men's book study group at WBC - we are currently reading through Darrin Patrick's The Church Planter), I quoted Robert Murray McCheyne on prayer. The quote I read was from a talk John Piper gave on the biographical history of McCheyne at a recent pastor's conference on prayer.

You can watch or listen to all of the sessions here.

You can watch, listen, or read Piper's message on McCheyne here.

Here is the quote I read:

"I ought to pray before seeing any one [in the morning]. Often when I sleep long, or meet with others early, and then have family prayer, and breakfast, and forenoon callers, often it is eleven or twelve o'clock before I begin secret prayer. This is a wretched system. . . . Family prayer loses much of its power and sweetness; and I can do no good to those who come to seek from me. The conscience feels guilty, the soul unfed, the lamp not trimmed. Then, when secret prayer comes, the soul is often out of tune. . . .

It is far better to begin with God—to see his face first—to get my soul near Him before it is near another. "When I awake I am still with Thee." If I have slept too long, or am going on an early journey, or my time is in any way shortened, it is best to dress hurriedly, and have a few minutes alone with God, than to give it up for lost. But in general, it is best to have at least one hour alone with God, before engaging in anything else. . . .

I ought to spend the best hours of the day in communion with God. It is my noblest and most fruitful employment, and is not to be thrust into any corner. The morning hours, from six to eight, are the most uninterrupted, and should be thus employed, if I can prevent drowsiness. A little time after breakfast might be given to intercession. After tea is my best hour, and that should be solemnly dedicated to God, if possible. . . . [And] when I awake in the night, I ought to rise and pray, as David and as John Welsh did."

The Art of Marriage Seminar - Online for FREE!!!!

2011-02-21T09:16:00.000-08:00

Last weekend (02.11.2011-02.12.2011) WBC hosted the 'Art of Marriage' seminar for married couples (and anyone else who was interested!). Put on by FamilyLife, it proved to be a very helpful and wonderful time of learning and reflecting and applying what our great God says regarding marriage.

Last week, FamilyLife announced that they have put the seminars on-line to watch for free. This is a remarkable gift from them to married couples and to the church as a whole.

If interested, click here to set up a (free!) account through FamilyLife.

When you have set up a login account, simply click through to watch the sessions.

The workbooks put together by FamilyLife were/are extremely helpful, not only during the seminar, but after the seminar as well for practical applications. WBC still has several sets of workbooks if you are interested in purchasing them. The workbooks cost $35 or you can order them through FamilyLife here.

I highly recommend purchasing the workbooks if/when you and/or your spouse work through the material together.

Thank you FamilyLife!

Sunday Night @ WBC: The Legacy of the King James Version

2011-02-21T09:01:00.001-08:00

Last night, instead of preaching a normal sermon from a biblical text, I gave more of a 'lecture' on the history of the King James Version of the Bible and a brief summary of the different Bible translation philosophies.

You can watch/listen to the message here later in the week. You can also download the outline I used for the message here (click on 'resources').

I used several resources to prepare for the lecture and mentioned others of interest. Below are the resources used and/or mentioned last night.

The primary source I used on the history of the KJV was Leland Ryken's The Legacy of the King James Bible: Celebrating 400 Years of the Most Influential English Translation

Al Mohler did a radio interview with Ryken regarding the book and the legacy of the KJV here.

Study Bible's I referenced last night:

The ESV Study Bible

The MacArthur Study Bible (NASB)

The Holman Christian Standard Study Bible

The biography of William Tyndale, written by John Piper that I referenced:

Filling Up the Afflictions of Christ

Two very helpful works on Bible translation and interpretation:

Grasping God's Word

40 Questions About Interpreting the Bible

Discussion Questions from Sunday Morning - February 20th, 2011

2011-02-21T08:03:00.001-08:00

Yesterday morning (02.20.2011) I had the privilege of preaching Luke 22:39-53. You can watch or hear the message here later today.

The title of the message was "The Great Exchange Begins With a Prayer and Kiss."

Always, the discussion questions will not make much sense if you haven't heard the message, so I urge to you listen/watch before getting to the questions. The following questions are here to help you further think through and apply the truth(s) of the text and the sermon.

The questions:

1. In what ways does Luke highlight Jesus being a 'Substitute' for sinners in these verses?

2. How is that Good News for you?

3. According to Jesus' demand for the disciples to pray and their subsequent sleepiness through it, how does this passage encourage you in your prayer life? How or why should followers of Jesus pray?

4. If it were you who were about to be arrested and crucified and your betrayer was a supposed 'best friend,' how would you have treated this 'friend'? If one of your enemies had his ear sliced off, how would you have reacted?

5. What was Jesus' response to Judas, the man who had his ear cut off, and the authorities who came to arrest Him?

6. What can this teach us about how followers of Jesus are to respond to their enemies?

7. How can the Gospel change the way we view our spouses who hurt us, or friends or family members who hurt us? How can we apply the Gospel toward those who (from our perspective) have mistreated us?

8. How might having the attitude of 'repaying evil with evil' give others a misunderstanding of Christianity?

Discussion Questions from January 30th, 2011 Sermon(s)

2011-01-31T08:59:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning and evening we had the unique privilege of focusing on the Lord' Supper during both services. We observed the ordinance during the evening service, but focused on it throughout the day. The text was Luke 22:14-27. Below I will ask some questions based off of the morning message (Luke 22:14-20) and I will post the evaluation questions I issued last night just before observing the Lord's Supper from Luke 22:21-27. Later today, you should be able to watch/listen to the messages here.

1. Bro. Matt mentioned 5 reasons given in the text as to why Jesus was so excited (see Luke 22:15) about sharing the 'Pre-Cross Passover' with His disciples. Which of the 5 reasons was the most important, in your opinion? Why?

2. Which of the five reasons most surprised you? Why?

3. Which of the five reasons was the most difficult to understand? Why?

4. What is the difference between the new covenant and the old covenant? See Jeremiah 31:31-34.

5. How often do you believe a church should celebrate the Lord's Supper?

6. What is one way the Lord's Supper protects the church body (and individual Christians!)?

7. Do you believe participating in the Lord's Supper should be a requirement for members of a church body? Why do you answer that way?

Evaluation Questions:

Evaluation Question #1: Are you currently living in a way that would betray the reality or the validity of Christ Jesus as Lord?
[See verses 21-23]

Evaluation Question #2: How quickly did your mind go to someone else when I posed question #1, rather than first evaluating yourself fully?
[Are you currently considering yourself better or more important than others?]

[See verses 24-26a]

Evaluation Question #3: Is your life marked by serving those you are church members with? [See verses 26b-27]

Discussion Questions from January 23rd, 2011 Sermon

2011-01-24T12:56:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I preached from Luke 22:1-13 during the morning service(s). The title of the message was "Supper, Satan, and Sovereignty." You can watch or listen to the message here.

Below are some discussion questions to further aid in your understanding/application:

1. Why did Bro. Matt title the sermon "Supper, Satan, and Sovereignty"? How do the verses break down to separate into these three words?

2. How does Luke connect the Passover with Jesus?

3. Why do you think Satan entered Judas during this particular time?

4. Do you think Judas had a choice as to whether or not Satan would enter him? [Explain your answer by using biblical texts]

5. What are some ways Luke goes to great lengths to remind us of Jesus' authority over the situation?

6. What does the fact that Judas walked with Jesus for 3 years tell us about real and false Christianity? How do you know if you are an authentic follower of Jesus?

7. How is it a comfort that Satan is "God's Satan"?

8. Why did God ordain and plan and accomplish the slaughter of His Son? Did Jesus die willingly? Why/How is this good news?

Resources Used for the Minor Prophets Series on Sunday Nights

2011-01-17T13:02:00.000-08:00

I am using several resources for the Sunday Night series on the Minor Prophets. Below is a list of the primary resources used thus far:

The Prophets Speak of Him: Encountering Jesus in the Minor Prophets by Anthony Selvaggio

The Message of the Old Testament: Promises Made by Mark Dever

How to Read the Bible Book by Book: A Guided Tour by Gordon Fee

The Christ of the Prophets by O. Palmer Robertson

The ESV Study Bible

The HCSB Study Bible

The MacArthur Study Bible

Discussion Questions from January 16th, 2011 PM Sermon

2011-01-17T12:53:00.000-08:00

Last night, at WBC, I was back in the "Not So Minor Minor Prophets Series" that I began early Fall 2010.

After having only preached on the book of Hosea, I proceeded with an overview of Joel in last night's message. It can be viewed or listened to here.

I provided an extensive outline of the book and for the message preached that can be found here as well.

Some questions to help you further think through Joel are:

1. What does Joel's name mean? Why is that significant for his task to the people of God?

2. Why did God send locusts AND the army of Assyria to attack the people/land of His people?

3. Read Joel. What are some specific ways God calls His people to repent? In other words, what does He want them to do to demonstrate repentance?

4. How does Joel's prophecy reveal Jesus: our need of Him and His provision for us?

5. What does Joel mean by the "Day of the Lord"? Who and how can endure the ''Day of the Lord"?

6. Bro. Matt mentioned 5 realities about God that Joel reveals. Which of the five speaks to you the most? Why?

Discussion Questions from January 16th, 2011 AM Sermon

2011-01-17T12:39:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning I finished up the 3-part series called "Staying Saved in 2011" from Luke 21:5-38. You can watch or listen to the message here.

In the three messages, I offered 8 Actions for the believer to take in order to endure until the day of Christ's return. They are:

1. Replace temporal affections with eternal perspectives (vs. 5-6).

2. Aggressively and intentionally grow in your knowledge of and affections for Christ Jesus (vs.
7-8).

3. Assume that the world will continue in chaos and go from bad to worse (vs. 9-11).

4. Make a habit of intentionally putting yourself in a position where you are desperate for God to
bail you out (vs. 12-18).

5. Guard yourself from loving God-ordained institutions more than God Himself (vs. 16-24).

6. Evaluate where your ultimate hope lies and deliberately change course toward confident hope
in final redemption (vs. 25-33).

7. Intentionally immerse yourself in the eternal Words of God (vs. 33, 37-38).

8. Know yourself and aggressively, with discipline, position yourself to be walking in obedience
when Christ returns (vs. 34-36).

Some questions related to these:

1. Which of the 8 Actions mentioned do you most need to work on?

2. What will you intentionally and practically begin doing now?

3. Reread Luke 21:5-38. Why should believers be so diligent to pursue these actions? (List as many reasons as you can from the text).

4. Why is Luke 21 a gift to the church?

5. Read Matthew 24. What are the similarities between Matthew and Luke? What are the differences?

6. If you were to teach Luke 21:5-38, how would you teach it to a new believer? How might you teach this material at your family devotion time?

Discussion Questions from January 9th, 2011 Sermon

2011-01-12T13:41:00.000-08:00

The second sermon of the year for WBC was part 2 of "Staying Saved in 2011" from Luke 21:5-38. You can watch or listen to the message here.

So far, I have talked through six actions followers of Jesus can (must!) take in order to be ready for the Second Coming of Christ and to endure to the end.

They are:

1. Replace temporal affections with eternal perspectives (vs. 5-6).
2. Aggressively and intentionally grow in your knowledge of and affections for Christ Jesus (vs.

7-8).
3. Assume that the world will continue in chaos and go from bad to worse (vs. 9-11).
4. Make a habit of intentionally putting yourself in a position where you are desperate for God

to bail you out (vs. 12-18).
5. Guard yourself from loving God-ordained institutions more than God Himself (vs. 16-24).
6. Evaluate where your ultimate hope lies and deliberately change course toward confident

hope in final redemption (vs. 25-33).

My plan is to offer you two more from the text this Sunday morning (God willing!).

Here are some discussion questions based on this Sunday's message:

1. Why did God arrange it to be very difficult for Christians here on earth the closer it gets to Jesus' return? In other words, if God is sovereign over all things, why not make it easier on earth for His children?

2. What did Bro. Matt mean by running the risk of loving God-ordained institutions more than God Himself?

3. How might someone be guitly (practically speaking) of loving God-ordained institutions more than loving God?

4. Bro. Matt suggested that everyone evaluate their hearts to see where his/her ultimate hope lies. Have you done that?

[Suggestion: Ask yourself questions such as, "Why do I go to work?" Or "Why do I come home from the office?" Or, "Why do I get up when I get up in the morning?" Or, "Why do I go to church?" Keep tracing down the answers until you get to the bottom of your heart.

An Example:

Why do I go to work? To make money.

Why do I want to make money? To pay the bills.

What kind of bills to have to pay for? Car. House. Boat. Kids. Clothes. Food. Insurance. Etc. Etc. Etc.

Why do I want these things?

Could God have me at my job for another purpose?

And so on and so on....

*The purpose is to ask yourself very personal and pointed questions to get at the floor of your heart and your motives and intentions and purposes for why you do what you do.

5. If your ultimate hope is not in Jesus, what is likely to happen to you when the world begins to come to an end?

6. What's going on in your heart if your ultimate hope and expectation in life is to see and know and obey and follow Jesus?

Disobedience and "Pesky" Consequences

2011-01-04T12:20:00.000-08:00

This morning in my trek through the Bible (I am currently using the "Shirkers and the Slackers" plan) I read Joshua 15-17.

I started at the beginning of December so I would have plenty of 'random' days to use and still stay on task (really, cause I know myself and I do not have a good track record!).

To be honest, there were several times I thought to myself "blah, blah, blah, blah" as I read through the land allotments for Judah and Ephraim and Manasseh. I know that is very irreverent to say. I know that having all this land given to the 12 tribes is a demonstration of the faithfulness and power and grace of God. But, honestly, it was difficult for me to read through all of these places that I really don't know where they are all located.

But a couple of verses caught my attention and I was quickly reminded of the importance to read it ALL. At the end of Joshua 15, I read this: "But the Jebusites, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the people of Judah could not drive out, so the Jebusites dwell with the people of Judah at Jerusalem to this day." (15:63) And at the end of Joshua 16, I read: "However, they did not drive out the Canaanites who lived in Gezer, so the Canaanites have lived in the midst of Ephraim to this day but have been made to do forced labor." (16:10)

All of these lands came under the possession of the Israelites, but the Jebusites and the Canaanites of Gezer. Are you kidding me? The gods of the Jebusites or the Canaanites are in no way bigger or stronger or more powerful than the God of Judah.

So, why these other 'pesky' peoples a part of the tribes of Israel?

The ESV Study Bible notes were very helpful this morning:

"This is not the first instance of failure to occupy (13:13), and it will not be the last. In 17:12 the Manassites are unable to occupy certain towns because 'the Canaanites persisted in dwelling in that land.' In 17:16 the Ephraimites cite Canaanite possession of 'chariots of iron' as preventing them from taking the plains. These statements seem to be in tension with the dominant theological conviction of the book of Joshua that the 'hand of the LORD is mighty' (4:24) and with the divine promise to the leader Joshua that 'No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life...You shall cause this people to inherit the land' (1:5-6). Joshua himself seems to agree with this assessment, insisting in 17:18 that 'you shall drive out the Canaanites, though they have chariots of iron, and though they are strong.' Perhaps statements of what Israel 'could not' do are to be read as early evidence of spiritual slippage-of failure to follow the Lord 'wholly' (see 14:8)-which will become increasingly evident in the book of Judges."

(emphasis added)

Israel 'could not' capture the Jebbies and the Cannies, not because the Lord wasn't strong enough, but because there were areas where they had slipped from following the Lord. Was this 'life threatening' to the nation? I guess you could make a case for it, but not really. Would God, by His overflowing abundant grace, come through for them in the end? You betcha. But would it have not gone alot smoother and easier and with much more peace without the pesky Jebusites and Canaanites hanging around? Little slips add up and cause hindrances to your life. Neglecting little areas of obedience breed little areas of frustration. Little areas of frustration breed bigger areas of frustration. Before long, the frustration snow balls into a disconnect from God.

Does God forgive sin? Hallelujah, yes.

Did the cross cover every sin I will ever commit against God? For sure (again, hallelujah).

But are there consequences to disobeying God? Absolutely. Pesky consequences. Consequences that make life harder and more frustrating and more difficult. Consequences that add stress and tension. Consequences that could have been avoided had there been obedience in the small things.

Are there 'pesky' areas in your life that are results from disobeying God in the small things? Maybe you haven't been able to 'conquer' them, not because God is not big enough to do it, but because you haven't trusted Him in obedience in other areas?

Trust and obey, for there's no other way, to be happy in Jesus.

Discussion Questions from January 2nd, 2011 Sermon

2011-01-03T09:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning, after taking two months to focus on other topics, I was back in Luke's Gospel. I read Luke 21:5-38, with the plan of taking three Sundays (January 2nd, 9th, and 16th) to walk through it.

As of right now, my plan is to finish Luke's Gospel on May 29th, 2011. We'll see!

Being that yesterday was the second day of the new year, my focus was on what Jesus said in Luke 21:19: "By your endurance, you will gain your lives." According to Jesus, those who endure to the end will be saved (see also Matthew 24:13). So, those who are genuinely saved, thus, genuinely born again by the Spirit of God, will endure to the end. Being saved is not just for those who think they can coast. It takes blood, sweat, and tears to endure to the end. So, my aim was to look at what Jesus said regarding the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 and His own 2nd coming still yet to occur, and give some actions believers can take in 2011 to 'remain saved' throughout 2011.

Later today, you can watch or listen to the sermon here.

Here some additional questions to help you process/apply the message:

1. Do you agree with Bro. Matt that Jesus was speaking of both the fall of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 AND His own 2nd coming in these verses? Why or why not?

2. In what ways do you need to replace affections for temporary things with that which will last forever? How much have you given to the Lottie Moon Offering this year? Could you still give more? If not, why not?

3. Bro. Matt mentioned several ways to aggressively and intentionally grow in the knowledge of and affections for Jesus:

1.) Read the Gospels over and over and over.

2.) Pray for God to protect you from error and to help you grow in knowing and following the biblical Jesus.
3.) Read sections of solid theology books that focus on the Person of Christ.
4.) Have family devotions and let your children ask you questions.
5.) Memorize portions of Scripture that describe Jesus.
6.) Make every effort to be here as we wrap up Luke’s Gospel.

Which of these can you immediately put into practice in your life?

4. How can assuming that the world will continue in chaos and move from bad to worse actually benefit a Christ-follower?

5. What is at least one action you can take in 2011 that puts all the pressure on God to show up and help you follow-through on?

Books Referenced During January 2nd, 2011 Sermon

2011-01-02T07:46:00.000-08:00

Systematic Theology by Wayne Grudem

Christian Beliefs: Twenty Basics Every Christian Should Know by Wayne Grudem

Bible Doctrine by Wayne Grudem

Big Truths for Young Hearts by Bruce Ware

The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name by Sally Lloyd-Jones

The Big Picture Story Bible by David Helm

The Mission Minded Familiy by Ann Dunagan

One Million Arrows by Julie Ferwerda

Link to Bible Reading Plans

2010-12-27T06:54:00.000-08:00

About two weeks ago, I linked some resources from a discussion based on the Thursday morning men's group, having read through David Platt's Radical.

Click here to go to that link and see the multiple links that will aid in your growth in 2011.

If I come across some additional Bible Reading Plans for 2011, I will do my best to post them here at this blog.

**By the way, Platt is finishing a new book entitled Radical Together. Pre-order it here.

Link to 'Almost Christian.'

2010-12-27T06:41:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning during the sermon I mentioned a book I was reading entitled Almost Christian: What the Faith of Our Teenagers is Telling the American Church. The book was written by Kenda Creasy Dean.

You can link to it through Amazon.com here.

Discussion Questions from 12/26/2010 Sermon

2010-12-27T06:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning at WBC, we had a wonderfully full house for our 10:30 am (Day After) Christmas service. David led us in some Christmas hymns, we commissioned the team of 9 men heading to E. Asia this week, and Donna Smith sang 'O Holy Night.'

I preached from Matthew 1:18-25; 2:13-15; 2:19-23 and focused on Joseph's obedience. The title was "Trust and Obey for There's No Other Way to Be Happy In Jesus" (Or, "Delay to Obey, and You'll Be Sorry Some Day"). You can watch or listen to the message here later in the week.

Here are some discussion questions to think through:

1. Of the areas Matthew mentions Joseph's obedience, which one (from your perspective) seemed to be the hardest? Why do you think so?

2. What would have happened if Joseph had followed through with his original plan to 'divorce her quietly'?

3. What were some additional implications of Joseph's obedience (in other words, what else resulted from Joseph's obedience rather than the 'surface' benefits)?

4. What do these passages teach us about how to walk with God?

5. How is it that Joseph's obedience was influential in our salvation?

6. In what ways do you need to be obedient to the Lord in 2011?

Discussion Questions from Adoption Q and A Series Sermon #4

2010-12-20T09:48:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I finished the "Adoption Q and A" Series with a focus on Jesus' Adoption. The title was "Was Jesus Really Adopted and Why Does It Matter?" You can watch or listen to the message here.

Of course, the answer to the question is an emphatic "YES!!!" Joseph did, indeed, adopt Jesus and bring Him into his family - making Him one of his very own.

Why does it matter? Yesterday, I offered five reasons:

1. The Messiah HAD to Come from the Line of David.
2 Samuel 7:12-16
Matthew 1:1, 6, 17 (See also Matthew 1:20)
Luke 4:31

2. Jesus as the “Son of David” Would Be Meaningless.
Matthew 9:27, 12:23, 15:22, 20:30-31, 21:9, 21:15, 22:42
Mark 10:47-48, 12:35
Luke 18:38-39

3. Jesus’ Adoption Implies His Having Come from Another Father.
Luke 1:26-35

4. Jesus’ Adoption Reminds Us of His Humanity and Growth as a Man.
Luke 2:40, 52

5. Jesus’ Willingness to Be Adopted Further Reveals The Extent of His Love for Mankind.
Philippians 2:5-11
Matthew 25:31-46

Here are some discussion questions to further help you understand/apply the truth(s) presented:

1. Had you ever wondered whether or not Jesus was adopted by Joseph?

2. Which of these five reasons regarding Jesus' adoption most surprised you?

3. Describe, in your own words, how Jesus' adoption demonstrates the reality that He was and is both 100% God and 100% man. What are some implications of this?

4. If Jesus came from the Kingly lineage of David and is, indeed, the promised Messiah - this means He is the everlasting King of the universe. What areas in your life need to be submitted to His kingly authority?

5. Read and meditate on Philippians 2:3-8 and Matthew 25:31-46. According to these texts, a person who follows Christ should diligently be doing what? How does your life demonstrate that Jesus' Spirit dwells within you?

6. Is God calling you to adopt?

How to Be Radically Intentional at a Christmas Gathering

2010-12-16T15:01:00.000-08:00

Don Whitney has provided a very helpful list of questions to ask at a Christmas gathering. Great way(s) to be radically intentional with your family and friends this year!

Click here to read what he says about them.

Here are the questions:

What's the best thing that's happened to you since last Christmas?
What was your best Christmas ever? Why?
What's the most meaningful Christmas gift you've ever received?
What was the most appreciated Christmas gift you've ever given?
What was your favorite Christmas tradition as a child?
What is your favorite Christmas tradition now?
What do you do to try to keep Christ in Christmas?
Why do you think people started celebrating the birth of Jesus?
Do you think the birth of Jesus deserves such a nearly worldwide celebration?
Why do you think Jesus came to earth?

Church Planter: The Man, The Message, The Mission by Darrin Patrick

2010-12-16T14:49:00.000-08:00

Thursday morning Bible Study guys:

This morning I mentioned this book by Darrin Patrick. Click on the book itself and Amazon will allow you to 'Look Inside' at the Table of Contents and such.

Also, click here to watch Patrick talk about the importance of and need for godly men. What he says kind of sets the tone for the book.

Click here to read an interview with Patrick about the book.

Click here to view an on-line sampler of the book and some endorsements by leading evangelicals.

[All of the above links were posted by Justin Taylor at his blog 'Between Two Worlds.']

Let me know what you think!

Resources Discussed During Thursday's Men's Group

2010-12-16T14:24:00.001-08:00

This morning, I had the privilege of wrapping up a study of David Platt's Radical with a group of about 20 guys. It was a great time of challenging one another with the biblical truths that David is so gifted at amplifying.

Chapter 9 concludes the book with a challenge not to just book the book on the shelf, but to actually do something 'radical' for a year. David challenges his readers to:

(1) Pray for the world.

(2) Read through the entire Word.

(3) Give sacrificially to a specific, church-based, Gospel-oriented cause.

(4) Spend your time on mission in another context.

(5) Be a part of a multiplying community.

I challenged the guys that met this morning to take this seriously, find some accountability, to pursue what was brought before us.

Here are some links of some of the things I suggested using the following resources through with these challenges:

Operation World

Click here to go to the web-site.

Click here to order the book.

Read more about Platt and the impact this book has had on his life here.

Bible reading plans...

Click here, here, or here (each of these are plans I linked from my blog last year).

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering - Click here to read and find out more about this all important offering.

A Christmas Gift that Only My Blog Readers Would Appreciate

2010-12-13T15:14:00.001-08:00

Today I received this T-shirt from a staff member just before evaluation time. I will let you guess which staff member it was.

Yesterday's Video (Link) and Quotes from Russell Moore and Margaret Sanger

2010-12-13T15:00:00.000-08:00

During yesterday morning's worship service, we showed a video clip from Eric Ludy entitled "Depraved Indifference." Click here to watch the clip on You Tube.

I also quoted from Russell Moore, regarding his comment on Joseph's God ordained decision to go ahead and marry Mary.

From his book Adopted for Life:

“Joseph easily could have walked out to the city gates, shaking his head to his friends. ‘You’ll never believe the crazy dream I had last night.’ He no doubt would have denounced everywhere Herod’s pagan insanity in killing babies and toddlers. No one would have blamed him for putting aside his betrothal to Mary. In fact, he probably would have been praised at his funeral for his kindness in not calling for her to be stoned to death. Joseph could have married a pious Jewish woman, could have fathered several of his ‘own’ children. He could have slept easily at night, perhaps, and then died an old man. No one would have thought him to be evil or even negligent. But if he’d don’t that, he would have been standing with the spirit of antichrist rather than the Spirit of Christ. No one else was called to adopt this Christ-child, but he was. And because he believed his God, he obeyed him, even to his own hurt.”

I also quoted the chilling statement made by Planned Parenthood's founder Margaret Sanger (also taken from Moore's Adopted for Life):

"Adoption requires a person to devote time and resources to raising a child that is not genetically related. Adoption puts the future of a child in the control of a stranger. It’s easier for a woman to have an abortion, or for a family to refuse to think about adopting because evolution and biology conspire to thwart adoption. Evolution has programmed women to be nurturers of the children they bear, thus, adoption as a solution to abortion is a cruel hoax.”

Discussion Questions from Adoption Q and A Series Sermon #3

2010-12-13T14:48:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning, I was able to preach on the topic of spiritual warfare as it relates to adoption. The title was "If Jesus Loves the Little Children of the World, Why are there 147 Million Orphans? (The Fall, Satan, and Demonic Hatred of Little Babies)." You can listen to and/or watch the message here.

Some questions for further reflection:

1. How does Planned Parenthood exude the spirit of Satan in their agenda?

2. How might that same spirit permeate evangelical Christians and their outlook toward children? Toward orphans?

3. Of the Scriptures read and mentioned by Bro. Matt, which was the most compelling?

4. How did Joseph demonstrate the Spirit of Christ in his actions? How would doing the expected and convenient thing been Satanic in his case?

5. How did Jesus demonstrate His willingness to be 'inconvenienced' for the good and life of others?

6. What is your life most marked by: the Spirit of God or the spirit of Satan? Why do you answer the way you do?

Discussion Questions from Adoption Q and A Series Sermon #2

2010-12-09T08:17:00.000-08:00

So sorry for the delay of these questions, but this has been a very busy week! This past Sunday, I preached the second in a series of messages on Adoption. The title of the message was, "Is Transracial Adoption Wrong? (Red and Yellow, Black and White - Are They Precious in Our Sight?"). You can watch and/or listen to the message here.

After you watch/listen to the message, ask these questions with yourself and others to further think through these truths:

1. Of the Scripture passages read or mentioned, which one (in your opinion) is the most convincing regarding God's plan for forming a group of people from around the world as a 'family'?

2. How might adopting a child of another race/ethnicity mirror the plan of God?

3. Are you okay with Jesus, the man you worship and have as an older brother, being Jewish? What if He were of African descent? What's the difference?

4. What are some ways society trumps what Scripture teaches regarding interracial adoption, families, etc.? What are some excuses you have heard as to why not to adopt of another race?

5. Why is it good news that God is not concerned with race or status or geographic location or religion, etc.?

Adoption, Race, and the Family of God

2010-12-01T14:40:00.000-08:00

From Chapter 2 in Russell Moore's Adopted for Life:

"Our adoption means, though, that we find a different kind of unity. In Christ, we find Christ. We don't have our old identities based on race or class or life situation. The Spirit drives us from Babel to Pentecost, which is why 'the works of the flesh' Paul warns about include 'enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy' and so forth (Gal. 5:19-21). When we find our identity anywhere other than Christ, our churches will be made up of warring partisans rather than loving siblings. And we'll picture to the world an autopsied Body of Christ, with a little bit of Jesus for everyone, all on our own terms (1 Cor. 1:12-13).

What would it mean, though, if we took the radical notion of being brothers and sisters seriously? What would happen if your church saw an elderly woman no one would ever confuse with 'cool' on her knees at the front of the church praying with a body-pierced fifteen year-old anorexic girl? What would happen if your church saw a white millionaire corporate vice president being mentored by a Latino wage-earning janitor because both know the janitor is more mature in the things of Christ?

Here's where, I think the nub of hte whole issue lies. Adoption would become a priority in our churches if our churches themselves saw our brotherhood and sisterhood in the church itself rather than in our fleshly identities. For some Christians - maybe for you - it's hard to imagine how an African-American could love a white Ukrainian baby, how a Haitian teenager could call Swedish parents 'Mom' and 'Dad.' Of course that's hard to imagine, when so many of our churches can't even get over differences as trivial as musical style.

If we had fewer 'white' churches and 'black' churches, few 'blue-collar' churches and 'white collar' churches, maybe we'd see better what Jesus tells us when he says we've come into a new household with one Spirit, one Father, one Christ. In fact, maybe the reason we wonder whether 'adopted' children can 'really' be brothers and sisters is because we rarely see it displayed in our pews.

If this will ever happen, though, we have to learn to discover who we really are, together, as the adopted children of God. That isn't easy because our identity is constantly questioned-by our circumstances, by our consciences, by the accusing powers in the air around us."

Two Great Articles over at Desiring God

2010-12-01T14:34:00.000-08:00

I would encourage anyone needing a challenge and some encouragement to read the following two articles posted at Desiring God during recent days:

1. An article by Michael Oh entitled "The Grace of God in Our Circumstances"

A portion of Oh's post:

"But even more important is the response of sharing spiritual blessing with the unreached peoples of the world. If you were born into a fundamentalist Islamic family what would you want Christians in America to do? If you were born into a family of a Shinto priest, how would you want Christians in America to respond? Knowing what you know today, certainly you would want them to share with you about eternal life through the Savior of the world Jesus Christ. Certainly you would want them to bring the Gospel to their nation and teach them about salvation for their souls and about eternal life. Certainly you would want churches and Christians in other nations to sacrifice financially to send missionaries to teach you the Bible, God's Word to this world."

2. An article by Paul Tripp entitled "The Shortest Distance Between Two Points"

Tripp's closing paragraph:

"So, David's prayer is an important request for all of us. All of us step off God's path in some way and all of us need restoring grace. Have you gotten off God’s straight path? Have you given yourself reason to take side-paths? How about praying, once again today, “Teach me your way, O Lord, and lead me on a level path”? Thankfully, our Savior Guide doesn't leave us to our wandering. He relentlessly seeks us and places us back on His straight path and for that every son and daughter, still on the journey, should be deeply thankful."

New Book on Adoption Coming Out January 1, 2011

2010-12-01T14:28:00.000-08:00

Click here to see the cover and read an excerpt from a new book called Reclaiming Adoption. Contributors include: Dan Cruver, John Piper, Scotty Smith, Jason Kovacs, and Rick Phillips.

A portion of chapter 1:

"I believe that a biblical understanding of God’s Fatherhood will cause us to be better able to look outside ourselves in service to others. If we are not confident of His love, our eyes will turn inward, and our primary concerns will be our needs, our lack, our disappointment, rather than the needs of those around us. As a result, we’ll be afraid to take risks or do the hard things even if they are necessary. Or we will do the externals of missional living as an attempt to earn God’s acceptance or to keep Him and our fellow-Christians off our backs. We will relate to Him as if we are wage-earners rather than as His dearly beloved children, the ones in whom He delights."

Great Resource on Adoption

2010-11-29T13:13:00.000-08:00

This book by Russell Moore is by far the best book on Adoption that I have ever read.

I would strongly encourage you, whether you feel led to adopt or not, to get your hands on a copy of Adopted for Life and read it. It will enlighten you on the Scriptures and encourage and challenge your heart regarding the ministry of adoption.

Discussion Questions from "Adoption Q and A" Sermon #1

2010-11-29T12:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had the wonderful privilege of beginning a 4 week series on adoption called "Adoption Q and A." My plan is to ask and answer the following 4 questions related to adoption:

November 28th, 2010 - "Why Should Believers Pursue Adoption"

December 5th, 2010 - "What About Transracial Adoption?"

December 12th, 2010 - "If God Loves the Little Children, Why are there 147 Million Orphans in the World?"

December 19th, 2010 - "Was Jesus Adopted and Why Does it Matter?"

Later today, you can watch and/or listen to yesterday's message here.

Below are some follow-up questions for your personal application and/or group discussion:

1. If you were asked whether or not you have been adopted, how would you respond? Why?

2. Of the following Scripture passages, which one(s) are the most compelling regarding your joyful obligation to care for the orphan? Why?

Exodus 22:22; Deuteronomy 24:17, 19-21; Deuteronomy 26:12-13; Deuteronomy 27:19; Psalm 82:3-4; Isaiah 1:17; Jeremiah 22:3; Zechariah 7:10; Malachi 3:5; Ephesians 5:1 (See Psalm 10:14, 68:5, 146:9); James 1:27

3. Bro. Matt gave three reasons why genuine believers in Jesus should pursue the ministry of adoption. Of the three reasons given, which was the most compelling? Why?

4. How did/do each member of the Trinity participate in your adoption as a child of God?

See Ephesians 1:3-6; Galatians 4:4-7; Romans 8:15; John 14:16-18

5. What are some truths about our spiritual adoption you learned from the sermon?

6. Based on the truth(s) presented in the message, how can Bro. Matt claim that every genuine believer MUST be passionate about adoption?

7. How is God leading you and your family to participate in the ministry of adoption?

Discussion Questions from 11/21/2010 Sermons at WBC

2010-11-22T13:17:00.000-08:00

It was great to be back behind the WBC pulpit yesterday. Yesterday morning my aim was to motivate the Wynne Baptist body to give sacrificially to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.

My text was Acts 20:35 where Paul quotes Jesus saying, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." You can watch or listen to the message here.

Some discussion questions to help you further apply the truth(s) of the message:

1. Would your spending reflect that you believe the truth that it is more blessed to give for Gospel causes around the world than it is to receive more for yourself?

2. What are some reasons Bro. Matt mentioned that make the need so imperative that Southern Baptists give sacrificially NOW to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering?

3. Of the four reasons Bro. Matt gave for why it is more blessed to give than to receive, which one of them spoke the loudest to your soul? Why?

4. Have you prayed about how much to give to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering? Would you be willing to give at least as much as you spend on Christmas gifts this year? How can you budget for 2011 to give even more this time next year?

On Sunday night, preached from Isaiah 54:1-8. The message was titled "Don't Waste the Gospel" and it ended the series through Isaiah 52:13-15; 53:1-12; 54:1-8 (what I challenged WBC to memorize this year).

A few discussion questions for your application:

1. Of the four implications mentioned that result from one who trusts in the Gospel, which one do you most readily apply to your life? Why do you say that?

2. Which of the four implications do you most neglect (waste)? Why? What can you intentionally do to began applying it to your life today?

3. Which of the four implications thrills your soul the most? Why?

4. In verse 2, regarding evangelism and missions, God commands His people (through Isaiah) to "not hold back" in taking the Gospel to the world. What are some ways you can aggressively take the Gospel to the world? Be specific and dream big!

Discussion Questions from 11/07/2010 PM Sermon

2010-11-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

Last night I had the wonderful privilege of wrapping up our annual Global Impact Conference. My goal was simple: To call WBC to "Kick it Up a Notch" in what we are doing for world missions and evangelization.

The message should be up later today here.

I read Romans 15:20-21; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Philippians 3:12-15; Hebrews 6:1; and John 17:18-20 to emphasize the point that genuine believers are never to "stay where they are" in their relationship with Jesus, but always be moving on to other levels of intimacy and devotion and Christlikeness.

Below is a summary of what I challenged everyone there to consider. My discussion question(s) is simply this: "Why not?"

Some of you have never been on a short-term international trip before. I want to call you, if you have never been, to commit tonight to go on one in 2011. Commit now to do that. God will show you where. God will direct you where. God will provide the resources to get you there.
Why Not?

Others of you have been on a short-term trip or two, but it has been a while. Perhaps you are thinking you have done your time and don’t need that anymore. I want to call you to think again. If it has been a while since you have been on a short-term international trip, can I call you tonight to commit to go again in 2011? God does unique things when you go overseas. He shows you His power beforehand by prompting your heart to go to a specific place. He shows you His power by providing for your financial needs. He shows you while you are there all that He is doing around the world. He shows you His power when you get back as to how He will use your testimony in others’ lives. Commit tonight to go in 2011, tell the Lord you will. Ask Him to show you where and how. He will do it.
Why not?

Still others of you have gone on at least one trip a year for the last several years. Before you commit to go on another trip, which is good, I want to call you to pray about whether or not God would have you serve long-term overseas somewhere. Seriously pray about it. Seriously seek the face of the Lord regarding it. Maybe a two-year stint. Maybe a four-year deal. Maybe the rest of your life. Move on to a deeper faith walk with Christ. There’s nothing wrong with going on another trip. I hope you will. But seriously seek the face and will of the Lord regarding your future. Where does He want you and your family to serve Him?
Why not?

Still others of you have sought the Lord and know that He has called you here, to this place, in Wynne, AR. But I still want to call you to a deeper faith walk with Christ, moving on from one degree of glory to another…
- Perhaps God wants you and your family to adopt a child internationally. Why not?

- Perhaps God wants you and your family to adopt a child here in the U.S. Why not?

- Perhaps God wants you and your family to open up your home to some foster children here in the U.S. who have no family? Why not?

- Perhaps God wants you to be intentional about building a relationship with a lost person in Wynne who you know needs Jesus? Why not?

- Perhaps God wants you to be intentional about building a relationship with a lost international in Wynne who you know needs Jesus?
Cambodians at Daylight Donuts?
Chinese Buddhists at Bin’s or China Express?
Spanish Catholics at Don Jose or Ameca?
Hindu Indians at Subway?
Islam Turks at the Gas Station here at the end of our street?
Japanese at businesses like Eakas?
Why not?

Still others in this room may not have the capacity to go or be as ‘radically’ intentional as you would like to be, but can send others and/or provide for others to be able to do this. All of us need to analyze our financial situation and ask how we can ‘kick it up a notch’ in our giving for the lost to know Christ.
- Some of you cannot go overseas, but can provide the means for some to go. Why not?
- Some of you cannot adopt a child, but can help provide financially for those who are. Why not?
- All of us can step up a notch toward our Lottie Moon giving compared to what we gave last year. Why not?

Two New GREAT Resources for Children and Families

2010-11-05T14:12:00.000-07:00

Crossway has just introduced their new ESV "Seek and Find" Bible for Families and Children.

Click here for a description, video, and a sample PDF posted by Justin Taylor.

Also, Westminster books has recently released Long Story Short: Ten Minute Devotions to Draw Your Family Back to God. Click here to check out Justin Taylor's description and here to order it directly from Westminster books.

Platt on the New Edition of 'Operation World'

2010-11-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

David Platt posts as a guest on Justin Taylor's blog today. His post deals with his excitement and recommendation of of the new edition of Operation World.

Click here to read what he has to say.

Al Mohler's Opinion of Yesterday's Election

2010-11-03T06:35:00.000-07:00

Over on his blog, Al Mohler writes a very helpful article for evangelical Christians to help make sense of what happened yesterday in the United States and what to look for in the near future.

Click here to read the entire post.

His summary:

"Evangelicals tend to swing between extremes when it comes to politics and elections. We are too easily elated and too readily depressed. Make no mistake. The election results of 2010 will lead to big changes in Washington and far beyond. That in itself is good news. But all this must be put in a truly Christian context.

"Christians are supposed to be the people who know the dangers of investing either too much, or too little, confidence in the political system. The election is over. Now is the time for Christians to pray for those who were elected and for the government they will serve. Things are going to get interesting fast."

Operation World

2010-11-01T09:39:00.000-07:00

Last night I mentioned Operation World as being for sale at our bookstore this weekend during Global Impact.

Click here and/or here to read more about it and/or order it.

Click here for other related items.

I highly, highly, highly recommend the book for your soul and for the glory of God around the world.

Links to Further Your Knowledge/Awareness of the Persecuted Church

2010-11-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

Last night I led the church to pray for three different areas. I based the prayer time on 1 Timothy 2:1-6. After a time of thanking God for the fact that the city of Wynne allows and encourages us to worship on Sunday (morning's and evening's!), we spent some time praying for those around the world who are forbidden to worship in the open at the threat of their lives. I mentioned that I would post a couple of links to further your knowledge and awareness of the persecuted church. Below are a few:

The Voice of the Martyrs Site

Open Doors

Download the World Watch List

Pray for the Persecuted

Discussion Questions from 10/31/2010 Morning Sermon

2010-11-01T09:19:00.001-07:00

Yesterday morning I preached from Ephesians 6:10-20. The sermon was entitled "The Armor of God: The Original Under Armor." You can watch or listen to the sermon here later today.

In honor of Reformation Sunday, I made 9.5 Observations (instead of 95 theses!) from the text.

The observations were:

#1. The Context of Ephesians Warrants the Call to Fight.
#2. Prayer is the Closet Where the Armor is Put On.
#3. Successful Fighting Means Constantly Wearing.
#4. The Call Here is to be Standing Not to Just Stand.
#5. The Enemy is Much More Powerful than We Are.
#6. Paul Stresses the Whole Armor, Not Just Parts.
#7. The Order of the Armor is Intentional, Not Vital.
#8. The Pieces of the Armor are Intentional, Not Random.
#9.5. The Key to Enemy Endurance is Confidence in Gospel Truth and
Consumption of Gospel Implications.

Some questions to help your further understanding and application:

1. What were the three areas mentioned from the context of Ephesians that Satan loves to attack believers in?

2. Where is Satan currently attacking you the most?

3. Why are there no armor pieces mentioned for the back?

4. Why is the 'belt of truth' mentioned first and the 'sword of the Spirit' mentioned last?

5. What do you think Bro. Matt meant by prayer being the closet where the armor is put on?

6. Write out observation 9.5 in your own words and expound on what Bro. Matt meant by this.

7. Which observation ministered to you the most? Why?

8. Which area do you most need to focus on? Why?

Books Recommended Last Night

2010-10-25T09:23:00.001-07:00

During the welcome of the evening service last night, I recommended two books to aid in preparation for our annual GIC.

The first book recommended was written by Thabiti Anyabwile. He, a former Muslim, wrote The Gospel for Muslims: An Encouragement to Share Christ with Confidence.

The second book recommended was written by Thom Rainer, current President and CEO of LifeWay. He authored the Unexpected Journey: Conversations with People who Turned from Other Beliefs to Jesus.

I plan to have these, along with numerous other titles, available at our GIC bookstore this year.

Discussion Questions from 10/24/2010 Sermons at WBC

2010-10-25T09:10:00.001-07:00

In preparation for our annual Global Impact Conference, I preached out of John 12:20-26. The title of the sermon was, "Global Impact 2010, Reflecting Christ, and Revealing Ourselves." Click here to watch or listen to the message later today.

Some questions related to the message:

1. In your own words, how did Philip and Andrews question break open the heart and agenda of Christ? How will our GIC 2010 enable us to reveal the heart of Christ?

2. How will GIC 2010 afford us the opportunity to reveal our own hearts as they relate to the Gospel of Christ?

3. Have you pursued any of the 10 actions presented at the end of the message? Which ones? Which action do you most need to pursue?

They are:

1. Make it a point to be here Saturday night and Sunday – November 6th and 7th.
2. Ask the Lord to equip you to better understand and share with lost internationals.
3. Pray for the Lord to reveal to you ways you can be ‘radically intentional’ about sharing with lost internationals in the future.
4. Beg God to give you a deep, deep burden (His burden) for the lost.
5. Ask the Lord to show you exactly if/where He wants you to go on a short-term trip in 2011.
6. Ask the Lord if He wants you and your family to go overseas long-term.
7. Ask the Lord to direct you in how much money you will give so the Gospel can continue around the world.
8. Pray that God would send His Holy Spirit to work in us and in our hearts during GIC.
9. Pray for those coming to equip us to be filled with the Holy Spirit of God.
10. Be ready and willing to repent of any sin the Lord brings to the surface of your heart AND to embrace any new ‘missional’ direction He places in your path.

Last night, I preached from Isaiah 53:10-12. The title was "Why the Christian is NEVER Without Cause for Celebration." Click here to watch or listen later today.

Some questions for your application and/or celebration:

1. Who is ultimately responsible for killing Jesus and why is it important?

2. Of the 6 'implications' of Jesus' death, burial and resurrection mentioned from the text, which was your favorite? Why?

3. Which of the 6 do you most need to contemplate and pursue a deeper understanding of?

The six 'implications' are:

1. The resurrection guaranteed your becoming His child (10).

2. The LORD and His will ALWAYS Prospers (10).

3. No more sacrifice for sin is EVER needed (11).

4. Hearing and believing makes one righteous, period (11).

5. Satan and his demonic forces have been, are, and will always be defeated (12).

6. The resurrected Christ always intercedes for us sinners (12).

Russell Moore on "Is the Orphan My Neighbor?"

2010-10-20T07:03:00.000-07:00

Great article here from Dr. Russell Moore on the call of God on believers to care for orphans.

An excerpt:

"Right now, there is a crisis of fatherlessness all around the world. Chances are, in your community, the foster care system is bulging with children, moving from home to home to home, with no rootedness or permanence in sight. Right now, as you read this, children are “aging out” of orphanages around the world. Many of them will spiral downward into the hopelessness of drug addiction, prostitution, or suicide. Children in the Third World are languishing in group-homes, because both parents have died from disease or have been slaughtered in war. The curse is afoot, and it leaves orphans in its wake.

"Not every Christian is called to adopt or to foster children. And not every family is equipped to serve every possible scenario of special needs that come along with particular children. Orphan care isn’t easy. Families who care for the least of these must count the cost, and be willing to offer up whatever sacrifice is needed to carry through with their commitments to the children who enter into their lives.

"But, while not all of us are called to adopt, the Christian Scriptures tell us that all of us are called to care “widows and orphans in their distress” (Jas. 1:27). All of us are to be conformed to the mission of our Father God, a mission that includes justice for the fatherless (Exod. 22:22; Deut. 10:18; Ps. 10:18; Prov. 23:10-11; Isa. 1:17; Jer. 7:6; Zech. 7:10). As we are conformed to the image of Christ, we share with him his welcoming of the oppressed, the abandoned, the marginalized; we recognize his face in the “least of these,” his little brother and sisters (Matt. 25:40)."

Oh may Dr. Moore's tribe increase!!!

If you haven't read his book Adopted for Life, I recommend it highly whether or not you are pursuing adoption. A GREAT read!

Interview with New NAMB President, Kevin Ezell

2010-10-18T15:09:00.000-07:00

Baptist Twenty One recently conducted an interview with the newly elected President of the North American Mission Board (NAMB), Kevin Ezell.

You can listen to the interview here. I strongly encourage you to hear what he has to say and learn as much as you can about the direction of this Board and the future of our convention's involvement in intentional evangelism and church growth in our country.

Bro. Matt's Blog

Bro. Matt's Blog Has Moved!!!!

Clarification From Yesterday's Message on Encouragement

Clarification From Yesterday's Message on Encouragement

Discussion Questions for June 5th, 2011 Sermons

Give them Grace - Parenting Book Referenced Last Night

Bible Reading Plan that Takes Jesus' Approach to Scripture

What About the Books on Brief Heaven and Hell Experiences???

Resources to Aid in Parenting with a Gospel Focus

FYI: Helpful Resources for Seeing Christ in the Old Testament

Discussion Questions from May 8th, 2011 Sermons

I CANNOT Believe It's FREE!!!!

Helpful Evangelistic Website

Christians and Osama Bin Laden (UPDATED)

God's Waterfall of Blessing - UAE (Part 5)

God's Waterfall of Blessing - UAE (Part 4)

New Book for 'The League' - Summer 2011

God's Waterfall of Blessing - UAE (Part 3)

God's Waterfall of Blessing - UAE (Part 2)

God's Waterfall of Blessing - UAE

Easter 2011 Sermon Discussion Questions

Nahum Helps the WBC Faithful Prepare for Easter

Discussion Questions from Sunday Morning, April 10th

Secret Church Simulcast at WBC !!!!

Currently Reading - And THOROUGHLY Enjoying!!!

Random, Yet Helpful, Articles of Interest

Discussion Questions from Sermons Preached on April 3rd, 2011 at WBC

Florida Baptist Witness and Tom Elliff

Russell Moore on Why Hell is Forever

Ways to Pray for IMB President, Tom Elliff

Interview with New NAMB President, Kevin Ezell

MUST LISTEN AUDIO!!!

My Parents Celebrate 40 Years of Marriage

Kevin DeYoung Reviews and Responds to Rob Bell's 'Love Wins'

Discussion Question from March 13th, 2011 PM Sermon

Discussion Questions from March 13th, 2011 Morning Sermon

One of the Most Important Paragraphs I Have Read Recently (Outside the Bible)

Surprised By Grace: God's Relentless Pursuit of Rebels

"Oh Mya, Obadiah! Can God Really Do That?" Sermon Discussion Questions

"As For Me, Where Could I Go With My Shame?" Sermon Discussion Questions

Evangelism Books Recommended During Church-Wide Sunday School

'Rid of My Disgrace' - Book Referenced During Yesterday Morning's Message

New York Times on the Rob Bell Controversy

Currently Reading - Tim Keller's "King's Cross: The Story of the World in the Life of Jesus"

Book and Video Referenced During Thursday Morning's "The League"

Thinking about Universalism and Hell is Healthy

Al Mohler on the Rob Bell Deal

Disciple Man Talks about Gluttony

Paul Tripp on Confession

Book Referenced Last Night - 'Generous Justice' by Timothy Keller

Not So Famous Amos - Discussion Questions from February 27th, 2011 PM Sermon

Some Discussion Questions from February 27th, 2011 Morning Sermon

What's Going on With Rob Bell?

Is Church Membership Really THAT Important?

Children and Baptism

Christianity Today Weighs in on the Boy/Girl Wrestling Debate

Tragic Trajectory

Dr. Mohler on Boys Wrestling Girls

Christian Divorce Rate Myth

McCheyne on Personal Prayer

The Art of Marriage Seminar - Online for FREE!!!!

Sunday Night @ WBC: The Legacy of the King James Version

Discussion Questions from Sunday Morning - February 20th, 2011

Discussion Questions from January 30th, 2011 Sermon(s)

Discussion Questions from January 23rd, 2011 Sermon

Resources Used for the Minor Prophets Series on Sunday Nights

Discussion Questions from January 16th, 2011 PM Sermon

Discussion Questions from January 16th, 2011 AM Sermon

Discussion Questions from January 9th, 2011 Sermon

Disobedience and "Pesky" Consequences

Discussion Questions from January 2nd, 2011 Sermon

Books Referenced During January 2nd, 2011 Sermon

More Bible Reading Plans

Link to Bible Reading Plans

Link to 'Almost Christian.'

Discussion Questions from 12/26/2010 Sermon

Discussion Questions from Adoption Q and A Series Sermon #4

How to Be Radically Intentional at a Christmas Gathering

Church Planter: The Man, The Message, The Mission by Darrin Patrick

Resources Discussed During Thursday's Men's Group