Christian Church

• Most Topular Stories

• 24 Legitimate Home-Based Business Ideas & Opportunities – GS19

  Christian Personal Finance

  Bob

  26 Jan 2012 | 7:20 am

  If you are like many, the thought of starting a home-based business has probably crossed your mind at some point. With the economy being what it is, layoffs all around us, and an increasing desire for many to escape the rat race and work from home, many are trying to start a home-based business. Working from home not only offers independence and freedom but there are also some great home-based business tax deductions as well. Video Intro Can't see the video in your RSS reader or email? Click Here! As I sit and write this, I am reminded of the years I spent in jobs that I didn’t like and…

• Making Sacrifices to Get Out of Debt – GS18

  Christian Personal Finance

  Bob

  25 Jan 2012 | 7:20 am

  Video Intro Can't see the video in your RSS reader or email? Click Here! This one is where the rubber meets the road. This is where we see how bad you want to be out of debt. The sacrifice is only temporary! The most important thing to remember as you are reading this is that it is ONLY TEMPORARY. By making a sacrifice you are not condemning yourself to that for the rest of your life. You just need to make up for all the overspending that has taken place in the past If you have done some of the things mentioned in the last few articles, you are on a better financial footing than you were.

• Church Security Conference Targets Creating Cohesive Plans

  1000churches - Kingdom Ministry On The Net - Bishop James I Feel God Brown

  8 Jul 2009 | 2:37 pm

  Church Security Conference Targets Creating Cohesive Plans The National Organization of Church Security Safety Management...

• What Ministry Conferences Are You Attending in 2012?

  churchrelevance.com

  Kent Shaffer

  24 Jan 2012 | 11:14 am

  Church Relevance’s list of 2012 church conference recommendations has been updated to almost 40 ministry conferences. There’s no way it includes all of the conferences worth considering. So check out the list, and please leave a comment letting us know which conferences we forgot and which ones you’ll be attending. Sponsored by: Shelby Systems - Superior Church Management Software Your one-stop-shop for all of your church, HQ & non-profit needs. We create, innovate and serve software to over 9,000 customers in more than 40 countries.

• The Leader of the Artists

  Church Forward

  Sam Rainer

  13 Jan 2012 | 8:13 pm

  Creativity is not necessarily art. Art requires creativity, but not all creative processes produce art. I like to consider myself creative (but not an artist). As a researcher, my creativity is different than an artist’s creativity. My spreadsheets are no works of art. I doubt they will ever be displayed in a museum, or in my church’s heritage room for that matter. But I do take pride in creatively communicating statistics in ways people can grasp. So an artist I am not, even in my most inspired spreadsheet moment. But we do have several artists in our church, and leading them requires a…

• 

  Church Marketing Sucks

• Church Marketing Lab: Series Graphics

  Chuck Scoggins

  27 Jan 2012 | 5:00 am

  There is always a lot going on over in the Church Marketing Lab. This month we’re highlighting some fun new message series graphics… We want your voice! Jump over to the Lab and join the conversation.

• The Interactive Church

  Kevin D. Hendricks

  25 Jan 2012 | 11:24 am

  Our broadcast world is quickly giving way to an interactive world. One-way broadcasting is being replaced with multi-way conversations. People no longer passively consume media, they interact with it. They talk back, through Twitter, Facebook, text messages and more. Widespread events are especially prone to this kind of treatment, from last night’s State of the Union to the upcoming Super Bowl, and anything that’s experienced by a large group, whether it’s national elections or natural disasters, or something closer to a home like a blizzard or local conference. Hashtags…

• Sexperiment Poll Results

  Kevin D. Hendricks

  24 Jan 2012 | 5:01 am

  Ed Young recently spent 24 hours in bed with his wife on the roof of his church, all while streaming live on the Internet (well, he didn’t make it the whole 24 hours). We asked your opinion of the great Sexperiment of 2012 and the results weren’t so thrilled. A full 62% called it a gimmick. Maybe climbing up on the roof was a bit, well, over the top. Next came the 15% that were thrilled that the church was talking about sex. Another 9% thought it was too much but still gave it a thumbs up, which adds up to a full quarter of people who actually supported the stunt. Another 11%…

• Favorite Post of 2011 Poll Results

  Kevin D. Hendricks

  24 Jan 2012 | 5:00 am

  Every year we ask about your favorite post of the last year, and for 2011 it was A Teenager’s Plea: Don’t Suck. Next came A Letter to Pastors: Is Communication PR or DNA?, followed by The Epic Fail of Church Announcements. Those three top posts, along with one more in the top five vote-getting posts, were all written by guest bloggers, which is something we’re hugely grateful for. Of course the top five vote-getting posts constituted all the votes this poll had. Poor turnout seems to have plagued this one, but we’ll just blame it on the end of the year lull. You can…

• Media Social: Getting Your Church Online

  Kevin D. Hendricks

  23 Jan 2012 | 8:14 am

  Media Social is a new online broadcasting platform for churches. But rather than just broadcasting content, it emphasizes the social factor with conversation and engagement. It synchronizes the online broadcast with social media conversation, including Facebook and Twitter. Approaches like this are changing how we watch TV, as we shift from passive watching to active engagement. We talked with Peter McGowan, the design principal at Plain Joe Studios, the company that designed Media Social. It sounds like Media Social coordinates online reaction to a real-time event. For churches, does that…

• 

  churchrelevance.com

• Whoops! Open Church Delayed but Coming Soon

  Kent Shaffer

  25 Jan 2012 | 6:20 am

  Open Church’s launch has moved to March 1, 2012 for the ministry ideas section and likely April 2012 for the free resources. WHAT HAPPENED? Developing the site wasn’t as easy as our developer expected. After previous delays, we pruned off features to make a mid-January launch possible, but those pruned benchmarks were not hit either. Unfortunately, what is left is unstable and missing most of what we hoped for. It is clear we need to go a different route. The developer has moved on. I apologize for this. Any payment the developer received was underwritten by my company or came…

• What Ministry Conferences Are You Attending in 2012?

  Kent Shaffer

  24 Jan 2012 | 11:14 am

  Church Relevance’s list of 2012 church conference recommendations has been updated to almost 40 ministry conferences. There’s no way it includes all of the conferences worth considering. So check out the list, and please leave a comment letting us know which conferences we forgot and which ones you’ll be attending. Sponsored by: Shelby Systems - Superior Church Management Software Your one-stop-shop for all of your church, HQ & non-profit needs. We create, innovate and serve software to over 9,000 customers in more than 40 countries.

• Leaders Book Summaries

  Kent Shaffer

  17 Jan 2012 | 5:00 am

  I love books. From the Bible to theologians to business experts, books are a quick way to get wisdom which in the long run helps you make better choices and avoid dangerous pitfalls. Over time my library has grown to about 1,500 books I haven’t read yet, but over time, my responsibilities have also grown to the point that I have to be very strategic about what I read and how long I read it. In 2012, I have purposed to read more by using book summaries from Leaders Book Summaries. I’ve avoided book summaries in the past because I liked the sense of accomplishment from reading a…

• Q+A :: How do I get new career doing humanitarian work?

  Kent Shaffer

  7 Jan 2012 | 7:02 pm

  QUESTION: While I love my ministry job and my church, I am becoming increasingly “burned out” and depressed with what I do. Currently our church is having some pretty major financial difficulties, which makes this a good opportunity for me to resign. I have always felt a unique calling on my life to serve with some sort of humanitarian organization. I see ministries like Feed the Children, Samaritans Purse, Hope for Haiti, Hello Somebody, and Sevenly and I have such a strong desire to do what they are doing. I know that you have very unique ministry, so I am hoping that you could…

• Q+A :: Should I resign from my current church?

  Kent Shaffer

  6 Jan 2012 | 5:00 am

  QUESTION: While I love my ministry job and my church, I am becoming increasingly “burned out” and depressed with what I do. Currently our church is having some pretty major financial difficulties, which makes this a good opportunity for me to resign. I have always felt a unique calling on my life to serve with some sort of humanitarian organization. I see ministries like Feed the Children, Samaritans Purse, Hope for Haiti, Hello Somebody, and Sevenly and I have such a strong desire to do what they are doing. I know that you have very unique ministry, so I am hoping that you could…

• 

  djchuang.com

• Lessons from YouTube Channels Making Money

  djchuang

  23 Jan 2012 | 9:54 am

  YouTube has become quite the pop culture shaper and launched a little cottage industry for thousands. I’d anticipate that will only continue to grow. That’s entertainment! Wired magazine recently featured a dozen or so Partners in The YouTube Laugh Factory: A Studio System for Viral Video (December 2011) and distilled these 5 rules for getting noticed according to YouTube Partners (people making money via YouTube): Make a lot of content. A lot. Target a niche. Connect with your fans. Collaborate. Optimize for the algorithms. These YouTube Partners are mentioned in the Wired…

• 10 Ethnicities Increasing Diversity in the OC

  djchuang

  18 Jan 2012 | 9:20 am

  The OC Register put together a colorful photo slideshow to shed light on the many immigrant groups in Orange County, California, in O.C.’s top 10 immigrant populations. The content of this post is excerpted from the slideshow’s caption text by Cindy Carcamo, with demographic data attributed to the 2010 American Community Survey and 2010 U.S. Census. [ed.note: the captions note for every group that "It's unclear what portion of this population are U.S. citizens, legal residents or in the country illegally because survey officials don't ask."] An estimated 918,000 foreign-born…

• whether to connect Twitter to Facebook or not

  djchuang

  14 Jan 2012 | 6:34 pm

  2 social networks dominate the new media landscape at this point in history — Facebook and Twitter. At the time of this writing, Facebook has 800+ million active users and Twitter has 100+ million active users. Many of you, like me, use both Twitter and Facebook. But given the disparity in numbers, many more are on only Facebook and not Twitter. Thus, my rationale for sharing my Twitter tweets (which I use more) to my Facebook status updates, so that both my Twitter followers and Facebook friends can see my latest finds — a large %age of my updates are links to goodies I find.

• List of Christian podcasts that aren’t sermons

  djchuang

  9 Jan 2012 | 8:43 am

  Recently I’ve been looking for podcasts to subscribe to for my commute time. I’m most interested in the intersection of social and spiritual things, aka people & relationships, which isn’t as popular as topics like technology or cooking or celebrity gossip. In the Christian podcasting world, most podcasts are sermons or teachings or devotionals or church tech; that’s okay for the masses. I’m looking to check the “other” box, not so much what books tag as “Christian life”; just Christians (and Christian-friendly people) talking about a…

• Asian American churches in the metro Washington DC area

  djchuang

  7 Jan 2012 | 10:55 am

  Question: “I’m looking for a church  in the DC area with a large Asian American demographic in attendance. I really want to be integrated into the Asian American community. Can you refer me to such a church in DC? I don’t have a car or know how to drive, so my traveling options are limited to just walking.” Answer >> There are several churches in the metro Washington DC / Virginia / Maryland area that are predominantly Asian American, or significantly so, oh, let’s say, at least 25%. And by “Asian American churches” I’m assuming…

• 

  | Rhett Smith:. Transitioning Life's Journey - Reflections on Writing, Therapy, and Faith

• Pressed to the Ground: A Theological Re-Frame of Depression

  Rhett Smith

  27 Jan 2012 | 3:00 am

  In my continuation on the topic of depression, especially male depression (here and here), I wanted to share something with you by Parker Palmer. In his wonderful book Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation (a must read), Parker has one of the most insightful, haunting, painful, and beautiful glimpses of someone who suffers from depression that I have ever read. Parker begins the chapter with an excerpt from a book that we all read in high school, but that perhaps we might re-read differently all these years later — The Inferno of Dante: “Midway on our…

• Communication: What ‘To Say’ And ‘Not To’ Say To A Depressed Man

  Rhett Smith

  24 Jan 2012 | 3:00 am

  “What is the most important thing you can do for a depressed husband, father, or son? Without a doubt it is to communicate love and acceptance to them with all the power you can muster, and to avoid blaming them or being judgmental about their depression. Your loved one has not chosen to be depressed. If he could, he would gladly give it up. Disappointing as this truth may be, try to accept his depression in your life with grace.” (Unmasking Male Depression by Archibald Hart, pp. 227) After my last post on male depression I have been receiving a steady stream of questions from…

• The Angry…I Mean, Depressed Male: Do You Know Him?

  Rhett Smith

  19 Jan 2012 | 3:00 am

  Over the last several months when I have gathered for lunch with a few of my friends, we joke about the idea of me writing a follow up book to The Anxious Christian called The Angry Christian. Don’t worry, that is not on my to do list, but our conversation hints at an issue that can be seen in our Christian culture. If you haven’t noticed, there seems to be a lot of angry Christians out there. And more often than not, they are men. But what I’m really wondering is if there isn’t just a bunch of depressed Christian men out there…and really,  men in general. In…

• The Anxious Christian is Coming Soon….Sneak Peek

  Rhett Smith

  21 Dec 2011 | 3:00 am

  This has been an exciting month for me as I have been wrapping up some details on the soon to be publication of The Anxious Christian: Can God Use Your Anxiety for Good?. The book will be released by Moody Publishers on March 1. I’m very thankful for the amazing group of people who have endorsed the book, and a special thanks to the New York Times best selling author of Quitter, Jon Acuff for writing the foreword to the book. If you are someone who has wrestled with anxiety, then I believe this book is for you. Here is a sneak peek: Anxious Christian from ETS Productions on Vimeo.

• Can You Tolerate Your Own Anxiety Long Enough to Grow?

  Rhett Smith

  1 Dec 2011 | 3:00 am

  [image by Phil Schatz] The ability to live in the question long enough for genius to emerge is a touchstone of creative success. In fact, a 2008 study published in the Journal of Creative Behavior revealed tolerance for ambiguity to be “significantly and positively related” to creativity. Uncertainty, Innovation, and the Alchemy of Fear These words from author Jonathan Fields (Uncertainty: Turning Fear and Doubt into Fuel for Brilliance) reminded me a bit of the poet Rainer Maria Rilke’s words in his work, Letters to a Young Poet: …I would like to beg you dear Sir, as well as…

• 

  LifeChurch.tv : swerve

• Round Tables at LifeChurch.tv

  Craig Groeschel

  24 Jan 2012 | 7:35 am

  In order to help serve churches, we will be hosting several round tables this year. Here is information on the first two. ARC (Association of Related Churches) will be doing a one day Leadership Forum for all pastors and church leaders at LifeChurch.tv. Pastor Chris Hodges, Rick Bezet, Joe Champion, and I will be contributing. This round table is for those who are interested in church planting and for pastors interested in developing their leadership skills. The forums will be a great time of learning, sharing ideas and growing relationships in a dynamic setting. There will also be an…

• ACCEPTABLE PRIDE?

  Craig Groeschel

  19 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am

  We know God opposes the proud. But some forms of social media seem to have redefined what pride is and what it’s not. For example: Imagine if I stood before our church and told everyone, “Joe Smith said, ‘Craig you are the best preacher ever! Your sermons changed my life.’ And Jill Denny said, ‘I loved your book. Everyone should read it. You are the best author I’ve ever read!’ Not only that, but Mike Mitchell said, ‘Craig, Life Church is the best church in the world! No church is as good as Life Church.’” Chances are good most people would look at me funny and think I’m…

• Church Online Platform is Live

  Bobby Gruenewald

  9 Jan 2012 | 1:29 pm

  I’m very excited to let you know… Church Online Platform has officially launched! This is the same technology that makes Church Online happen at LifeChurch.tv. What we’re making available to other churches for free is identical to what we’re using internally. We’ve been looking forward to this moment for a long time. Ever since the early days of Church Online (or the Internet Campus as we called it back then), one of the most frequent questions we received was, “How can we develop something similar?” Through the partnership of a handful of like-minded…

• Free Platform Helps Any Church Launch an Online Ministry

  Bobby Gruenewald

  6 Dec 2011 | 7:06 am

  One of the most common questions we receive about Church Online is, “how can I start something similar at my church?” That’s why I’m excited to share this news about the Church Online Platform… If you’d like to stay in the loop as we near the launch date of January 9, just enter your email address at ChurchOnline.org. And if you know churches who might be interested, please share this post with them!

• The Imaginary Deadline

  Craig Groeschel

  6 Jul 2011 | 7:00 am

  For years I struggled with managing my time effectively. One tool I learned that dramatically increased my effectiveness is the “imaginary deadline.” If I’ve got a project without a deadline, it’s easy to procrastinate or work halfheartedly. When an assignment has a hard deadline, I start faster, work smarter and focus better. Instead of thinking, I need to have my sermon finished before I preach this weekend, I have a Wednesday-at-noon deadline. It’s not anyone else’s deadline. It’s mine. Rather than saying this video needs to be finished by next week, I complete all videos by…

• Photostream from Daylife

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

• 

  Jesus Dust

• Viral Churches in 19th Century Missiology

  15 Jan 2012 | 3:12 pm

  In 2010, Ed Stetzer and Warren Bird published Viral Churches, sounding a call for church multiplication movements through "churches planting churches that in turn plant churches."  As trendy as the title sounds, its idea is far from original. Prominent missiologists dating back to at least the 19th century have called for the development of self-propagating churches as a key objective of mission

• Lesslie Newbigin (1909-1998): Biography and Legacy

  1 Jan 2012 | 9:39 am

  Missionary, Missiologist and Ecumenist Biography James Edward Lesslie Newbigin was born on December 8, 1909 in Newcastle-on-Tyne, England to Annie Affleck and Edward R. Newbigin, a shipping merchant.  His earliest memories were happy ones, with a caring mother and a devout and politically radical father.  He attended a Quaker boarding school called Leighton Park in Reding, Berkshire.  By the

• Pauline Precedent in 19th Century Protestant Mission Thought

  12 Dec 2011 | 2:24 pm

  Two thirds of the New Testament was written, it appears, by a missionary named Paul.  Furthermore, a large portion of the book of Acts is devoted to chronicling his missionary endeavors.  Thus it should come as no surprise that Protestant missionaries have over the centuries appealed to his model and practices as they shaped and justified their own.  This essay considers how notable Protestant

• Book Review: Evangelical Hospitality: Catechetical Evangelism in the Early Church and its Recovery for Today

  16 Nov 2011 | 1:17 pm

  <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Cambria; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-layout-grid-align:none;

• This is My Story: Spiritual and Autobiographical Notes

  25 Oct 2011 | 12:08 pm

  I wrote this a while back, but if don't know me and want to, or want to know the back story, here you go:  David and Ruth James, my parents, were and are committed followers of Jesus, and their devotion was apparent to me not only in the reality that they sacrificed to send my sister and I to private Christian schools, but in the all-night charismatic prayer parties my mother would drag me to,

• 

  Jesus Hates Papyrus

• Your resolution will flop.

  Michael Buckingham

  31 Dec 2011 | 3:30 pm

  No matter what version you read it out of, Proverbs 19:21 sums up 2011, and really the last 7 years of my life quite well. Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails. You can make many plans, but the LORD’s purpose will prevail. We humans keep brainstorming options and plans, but God’s purpose prevails. In the beginning of 2011 I was rolling along, growing Holy Cow’s impact and reach…doing what I do. During the year a few churches asked me to join their staff, but we were comfortable and felt good doing what we were doing.

• Learning from the dead

  Michael Buckingham

  14 Nov 2011 | 9:35 am

  A heavy week last week, attended two funerals. One for Ridley who died unexpectedly and the other for a friends mom, Evelyn, who had been struggling for a long time. I learned a couple of lessons: Don’t wait for a eulogy As I sat at Ridley’s funeral and everyone said amazingly kind words (Rid was an icon of faith in our church, an incredible man), it struck me: “why did we wait until now to say this?” I am going to make an effort to let people know how special they are and the impact they make on my life in the here and now. We’re missing reverence in the church…

• Hell? Yes!

  Michael Buckingham

  3 Nov 2011 | 3:10 pm

  Someone shared some teaching yesterday that has really disturbed me. Before I get into it let me just say I know I’ll get some heat for this. I know I’m pointing a finger. I know I’m pushing buttons. I know I’ll get blacklisted by some. I’m gonna be okay with that I think. I’m going to do my best to say this in love, but truth must be told and I believe it good and right to speak out against wrong teachings. It is important to note that I am not going to judge the writer, but I am speaking out against his teaching. Matthew 7:1-2 ESV Judge not, that you be…

• Seriously? JesusWeen?

  Michael Buckingham

  19 Oct 2011 | 9:59 am

  From the yes-we-have-lost-touch file, I introduce JesusWeen. When I saw this at Gawker I figured, okay hoped, certainly they must be mistaken or just poking fun. Nope. It’s real. And it’s stupid. Listen, I know many/some/all have written Halloween off as evil. And in fact I too believe there are some things about Halloween that are best left alone. But JesusWeen? Really? You know people are laughing at you, right? And don’t be kid yourself that you’re reaching the lost that night, I’d even suggest you might just be making you and your group feel superior and more…

• Happy Anniversary @holycowswife

  Michael Buckingham

  27 Sep 2011 | 8:07 am

  8 years babe. It has been an adventure, and I expect it will continue to be. I’m excited for the season we are in and grateful for the seasons God has brought us through. Thank you for being my helpmate. Thank you for not dumping me at the altar as I licked my lips ready for you to be my bride. Thank you for holding me back so I wouldn’t tell our pastor to get on with it. Thank you for making me laugh and allowing me the privilege of bringing laughter to your life. Thank you for never giving up on the plans that God created for us. When this picture was taken we had no idea the…

• 

  Eric Bryant - Blog

• A Place at the Table: 40 Days of Solidarity with the Poor

  Eric Bryant

  27 Jan 2012 | 7:26 pm

  Ever since I met him during our freshmen year at Baylor University, Chris Seay has always challenged me to think and live in new ways. His latest initiative includes a 40 day experience in solidarity with the poor. Want to join him and others? If so, watch below:   Check out his new book here: Place at the Table: 40 Days of Solidarity with the Poor.

• The Catalytic Leadership of Paul (Ephesians)

  Eric Bryant

  26 Jan 2012 | 9:07 am

  This past fall we went through the stories and letters of Paul in chronological order with some our network leaders at Gateway. We were trying to determine the characteristics that made him so catalytic so that we might grow in this as well. Here is the order we are reading through and discussing: Week One – Acts 7-16 Week Two – Galatians Week Three – Acts 17, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians Week Four – Acts 18, 1 Corinthians Week Five – 2 Corinthians Week Six – Romans Week Seven – Acts 19-20, Ephesians Week Eight – Acts 21-28 & Colossians,…

• Deepen Webisodes from Gateway Church

  Eric Bryant

  25 Jan 2012 | 9:51 pm

  At Gateway Church, we recently introduced a series of Deepen webisodes to help those who are developing and deepening their faith. From the Gateway website: “Gateway is committed to helping everyone take their next step toward deepening our knowledge and experience of God, Jesus, and His word. With that goal we want to experiment with this webisode/podcast idea. As we gather in networks and small groups across the city with others who are serious about their faith and following Christ we hope this will facilitate a deeper conversation. Every week we’re going to post a webisode…

• Crowded House (Jan. 29th & Feb. 1st)

  Eric Bryant

  25 Jan 2012 | 7:17 am

  We have several Crowded House events coming up! A Crowded House event involves connecting more intentionally with others in your part of Austin. We share a meal, spend time in worship, discuss meaningful passages from the Scriptures, and share options for small groups and service projects. This is designed as a place to connect to the core of our church and deepen our faith. Click on any of the links below for more details: Central Families & Couples - Sunday, January 29th from 4-6pm at the Muhich’s House Manchaca & Circle C (Buda & Kyle) - Sunday, January 29th from 6-8pm…

• Character Matrix: Moving from Brokenness to Wholeness (Video & Overview)

  Eric Bryant

  24 Jan 2012 | 9:36 am

  Recently, I had the chance to share at the Gateway Church Lunch & Learn, a monthly training we have for our leaders on the third Tuesday of the month during lunchtime. These can be viewed online at live.gatewaychurch.com if you’d ever like to join us. I shared about the Character Matrix which has been one of the greatest tools to help me in my spiritual growth as well as the tool I use the most in helping others grow. Fortunately, these principles are included in Uprising: A Revolution of the Soul by Erwin McManus which I highly recommend! From the Gateway Leaders website:…

• 

  Kindle Prayers

• a complete healing for my puppy, Leo. In gratitude!

  26 Jan 2012 | 8:29 pm

  a complete healing for my puppy, Leo. In gratitude!

• hope

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:23 pm

  i am scared for my own well being as mybody feels heavy with stress and weary. i pray for my husband so that he will beat this cancer and that all will go well for a blessing of good and the negativity to be taken out of our homes and our lives :(

• Healing for Johnny's Right Knee

  25 Jan 2012 | 11:01 am

  My grandson Johnny, age 11, is going in for an MRI of his Right knee tomorrow. The doctor suspects a torn cartilage, in which case Johnny will need surgery. Whatever it is pray for complete healing. Also pray for Johnny who is very athletic and has been playing football and basketball since he was in the 2nd grade and he wants to continue to play. Pray for peace of mind for him and his parents. Thank you.

• Blessing from God

  25 Jan 2012 | 5:54 am

  I pray that my daughter that i got after soo many years of barrenness be blessed the Lord our might.May God show her his ways and may she lives by the Lord's ways.

• My mother n' law has Liver Cancer.

  24 Jan 2012 | 3:09 pm

  My mother n' law may have liver cancer. I am praying that she doesnt have it and if she does that it is early enough for her to beat it. She is still so young! Not even in her 50's

• 

  Church Forward

• The Leader of the Artists

  Sam Rainer

  13 Jan 2012 | 8:13 pm

  Creativity is not necessarily art. Art requires creativity, but not all creative processes produce art. I like to consider myself creative (but not an artist). As a researcher, my creativity is different than an artist’s creativity. My spreadsheets are no works of art. I doubt they will ever be displayed in a museum, or in my church’s heritage room for that matter. But I do take pride in creatively communicating statistics in ways people can grasp. So an artist I am not, even in my most inspired spreadsheet moment. But we do have several artists in our church, and leading them requires a…

• Five Leadership Resolutions for Your Followers

  Sam Rainer

  9 Jan 2012 | 2:08 pm

  New Year’s resolutions are often self-centered; it’s understandable. Successful people often reflect on who they are. They try to be more self-aware. They desire to develop themselves. So, good leaders often make resolutions involving individual goals, desires and objectives. Many leaders have resolve — the determination to see a goal and achieve it. Too often these goals involve what individual leaders can do on their own. By the nature of their roles, however, leaders have people around them – teams, subordinates and followers – who are necessary components of success. Allow me to…

• The New Geography of Megapolitan Communities

  Sam Rainer

  9 Dec 2011 | 5:56 pm

  USA Today recently published a graphic that grabbed my attention. As shown below, this graphic reveals what some demographers predict will become “megapolitan” communities. While I might draw the lines differently on some of the physical boundaries of these communities, the concept of megapolitan areas is fascinating to me. The article (which reports on this book) defines these megapolitan areas as “having at least one metropolitan area of 2 million people by 2040 that’s connected — via commuting patterns — to at least one other metro area of more than 250,000 people. A…

• Why We Romance Poor Leadership

  Sam Rainer

  4 Nov 2011 | 11:46 am

  There is a romance of leadership. Most studies in leadership focus on the top roles. Many leader-centric approaches assume followers are mere recipients of leader-driven change. To romance leadership is to exaggerate its importance relative to followers. Leadership is extremely important, but it exists only because followers collectively interpret someone (or a group) in such a role. Romancing leadership leaves out half the relationship. Followers are just as important. Obsessing over leaders at the expense of followers leaves a gaping hole in understanding how leadership really works. If…

• Why Your Community is More Diverse… or Soon Will Be

  Sam Rainer

  19 Oct 2011 | 7:17 pm

  When you get to know a person more, you learn how to love them better. The same principle applies to communities. Communities are made of individuals, and knowing your local context helps you love the people in them more. One critical element of understanding your community is tracking demographic changes. Perhaps one of the most important changes occurring in North America is the growing diversity of many local communities. Brookings recently released a fascinating study on the changing landscape of immigration over the past ten years. Compared to previous decades, several changes are…

• 

  ChuckWarnock.com

• Podcast: A Proclamation and an Invitation

  Chuck Warnock

  24 Jan 2012 | 9:02 am

  In Mark 1:14-20, Jesus proclaims that the Kingdom of God is near.  He then invites those who hear his proclamation to change their way of thinking and living, and believe the good news of the Kingdom’s presence.  Jesus then invites Peter and Andrew, and James and John to follow him, with the promise that he will make them fishers of people.  The invitation to follow Jesus is an invitation to Kingdom living, and means more than just believing facts or doctrine. Here’s the link to this week’s podcast…

• Podcast: When God Finds You

  Chuck Warnock

  22 Jan 2012 | 1:42 pm

  Taken from John 1:43-51, this story of Jesus calling Philip and Nathanael gives us a glimpse in how and why God calls us to follow Jesus.  When God Finds You explores the role of scripture, experience, and community that are present in the call of God in the lives of followers of Jesus.  Here’s the link to the podcast – http://traffic.libsyn.com/chuckwarnock/When_God_Finds_You.mp3 Filed under: John, Lectionary Yr B, sermon, Sermon Illustrations, Sermons, Worship

• Podcast: Heaven and Earth Meet in the Waters of Baptism

  Chuck Warnock

  8 Jan 2012 | 1:46 pm

  Jesus’ baptism was the central, but not only time, that heaven and earth met with extraordinary result.  This meeting of heaven and earth is what Jesus taught us to pray for when He said, “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”  Heaven and earth will ultimately meet again finally and forever when all things are made new.  Because of the unique experience of Jesus’ baptism, our own baptisms become the meeting place of heaven and earth, too. Here’s the link to the sermon I preached on Sunday, January 8, 2012, Heaven and Earth Meet in…

• Sermon: Jesus Still Changes The Future

  Chuck Warnock

  1 Jan 2012 | 7:42 am

  Here’s the sermon I’m preaching on New Year’s Day Sunday, January 1, 2012.  Whatever 2012 holds, the point Luke is making in this story about Simeon is that Jesus changes the future.  Jesus Still Changes The Future Luke 2:22-40 NIV/84 22 When the time of their purification according to the Law of Moses had been completed, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord”), 24 and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the…

• 5 Issues Your Members Will Talk About in 2012

  Chuck Warnock

  29 Dec 2011 | 10:14 am

  The flood of articles predicting what’s going to happen in 2012 has begun, so I thought I would throw in a small church perspective.  Interestingly, I think 2012 will bring us to a unique intersection of faith and politics. Here are the top five issues your members will be discussing in 2012: Religious pluralism.  Your members may not use that phrase – “religious pluralism” – but their conversations will be sprinkled with talk about the rise of other, non-Christian religions in the United States.  With Mitt Romney and John Huntsman running for the Republican nomination, Mormonism…

• 

  Prodigal Magazine

• Good News About Prodigal Magazine!

  admin

  27 Jan 2012 | 3:11 pm

  Dear Prodigal Magazine Reader, Guess, what? We have good news about Prodigal Magazine! Since 2005 Prodigal Magazine has been the place where you have come to get interesting, provocative and helpful information about technology, faith, culture and lifestyle. But maybe you’ve noticed that things have been a little bit quiet around here for awhile. That’s because Jason Wenell, founder of Prodigal Magazine, had and followed his vision for a company called The Table Project — and it turns out that being apart a successful company (not to mention being a husband and father) took…

• Was I wrong about dream girls?

  JHalbert

  1 Sep 2010 | 1:53 am

  A while ago I wrote an article saying that I thought that “dream girls” didn’t exist.  I think about 5 people read it and left some comments, but overall, it was probably just left alone. It was a pretty brutal article, maybe offensive, someone said “cynical and bitter,” but I was really trying to be more funny than I was angry. My lack of writing experience was probably the article’s biggest deterrent to its effectiveness.  That said, sorry if you were the few that read it and were offended and I hurt your sensitive little hearts; I really didn’t…

• Q&A – What is God’s relationship to time?

  admin

  20 May 2010 | 10:46 am

  Answer: We live in a physical world with its four known space-time dimensions of length, width, height (or depth) and time. However, God dwells in a different dimension—the spirit realm—beyond the perception of our physical senses. It’s not that God isn’t real; it’s a matter of His not being limited by the physical laws and dimensions that govern our world (Isaiah 57:15). Knowing that “God is spirit” (John 4:24), what is His relationship to time?In Psalm 90:4, Moses used a simple yet profound analogy in describing the timelessness of God: “For a thousand years in Your sight…

• Michael Catt Interview (Creator of Facing The Giants and Fireproof)

  jvaughan

  10 Apr 2010 | 3:35 pm

  Last week, I got an email from a literary agency asking me if I would be interested in interviewing Michael Catt.  Many of you may not know who he is.  He is the Senior Pastor at Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, GA and the creator of movies such as Facing The Giants, Fireproof and the newly announced production Courageous that will be hitting the big screen next year.  God has moved in and through his church to be an encouragement to many, so I sat down with him today to discuss his role as a pastor, an author and a movie producer. Pastor: When people hear the name, Michael Catt, they…

• Reign O’er a Kingdom in Ruin

  BMacKinnon

  2 Mar 2010 | 9:18 am

  One nugget of Christian rhetoric I have always had the toughest time understanding is “giving everything to God.”  What was so frustrating about this is that “giving everything to God” sounds like the right thing to do, and here I don’t even know the implications of the statement!  My visceral response is to pack up all my belongings and give them to the church.  Or perhaps to quit my job and say I had given it to God.  The Peace Corps seems to fit the bill for that too, I should enlist (or whatever it is they call it). No.  That isn’t all there is to it.  Luckily, Jesus…

• 

  FredMcKinnon.Com

• Blessings

  Fred McKinnon

  6 Jan 2012 | 7:18 am

  God’s love for us is so amazing.  It’s not dependent on our works or our obedience.  He just loves us.  Period. What about His blessings?  Perhaps that’s a different topic altogether.  A few days ago I mentioned how obedience can help us dismantle the hardness of heart. Does obedience also unlock God’s blessings in our lives? Take a look at this old testament promise that I love so much: 2 And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God. (Deut. 28:2) [emphasis mine] What do you think?

• Dismantling Hardness of Heart

  Fred McKinnon

  4 Jan 2012 | 8:04 am

  I found myself praying about areas in my life where my heart has grown hard, where my soul seems cold.  This prayer slipped out of my mouth as I was walking the dog down N. Harrington, praying aloud into the quiet morning air.  I resonated with every part of my body and I thought I’d share it with you. “I want to dismantle the hardness of my heart through steady, slow acts of obedience and devotion”. Amen.

• 2012 – Who Am I (New Year’s Ramblings)

  Fred McKinnon

  2 Jan 2012 | 9:49 am

  Happy New Year Everyone! This is the first time I’ve blogged since early October 2011.  The thought that my blog has been sidelined for so long is somewhat discouraging; yet, not surprising.  I wear a lot of hats and sometimes I set one aside – for a season, or forever.  I struggled over the impact it would have but realized soon enough that the simple fact that I didn’t receive a question, email, tweet, or comment about my lack of blogging was evidence enough:  I take this space and it’s influence way too seriously sometimes!  Today’s post is a wakeup for…

• We Made the “Best of the Best” 2011!

  Fred McKinnon

  14 Oct 2011 | 6:06 am

  Hey Gang, A few years ago I started this little “blog carnival” called “Sunday Setlists” here at FredMcKinnon.Com.  After running it a year or so, I decided to let TheWorshipCommunity.Com host this weekly event.  TWC had a much bigger audience and it just made sense. We’re delighted to share that the readers of Worship Leader magazine have selected the “Sunday Setlists” event to be included in their “Best of the Best 2011″ edition.  The magazine is out now. Read the full press release over at TWC. Now, I guess I should get back on the…

• Still Here – Are You?

  Fred McKinnon

  13 Oct 2011 | 7:37 am

  Hey Gang, I’m still here.  If you follow the blog posts at all, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see that I’ve not blogged or written much in the past couple of months.  “Life moves pretty fast.  If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”  (name that movie quote) Fall is always the busiest season for me.  We add soccer to our schedules – so we have games every weekend.  (Thus, the absence of the popular “Small Town Stories” series I was doing on Saturday mornings).  I’m gearing up for the busy…

• 

  Worship Ministry Catalyst

• Worship Ministry Catalyst Podcast – Episode 0103 – Basic Music Theory Principles for Worship Bands

  David Lindner

  20 Jan 2012 | 10:00 am

  In our 103rd episode, we talk about some of the basics that might help worship bands know the mechanics of Music a little better. We’re trying to help people get off the page, playing each chord as we get to them – and into the music. Whether you’re new or have been listening for quite some time, we would love to hear form you! Connect with us on twitter (@wmcatalyst) and facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Worship-Ministry-Catalyst/142395799134634.) If you have some insight to offer on this topic, we’d love to hear from you. One of the ways you can do that is to…

• Worship Ministry Catalyst Podcast – Episode 0102 – How to recover from Christmas

  David Lindner

  10 Jan 2012 | 9:00 am

  We are finally back with a new episode of the Worship Ministry Catalyst Podcast. Christmas really pounded the both of us, and that’s exactly what we talk about in this episode. We talk about Christmas, and we talk about how to recover from Christmas. We also talk about pizza! Whether you’re new or have been listening for quite some time, we would love to hear form you! Connect with us on twitter (@wmcatalyst) and facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Worship-Ministry-Catalyst/142395799134634.) If you have some insight to offer on this topic, we’d love to hear from you. One…

• Been a little busy…

  David Lindner

  29 Dec 2011 | 10:26 pm

  It seems that every year I write a post like this. I should just copy and paste from previous years! However, I just wanted to let you all know that we are still here. Kevin & I have both been busy this Christmas season. We both had Christmas productions as well as regular weekend services and Christmas Eve/Day services. I hope our absence of content for the past month or so only reinforces who we are in your minds! As we have said all along, we don’t claim to know everything there is to know about Worship Ministry. We’re just a couple of worship pastors who want to share what…

• Worship Ministry Catalyst Podcast – Episode 0101 – Debriefing the Songs & Stories Tour

  David Lindner

  16 Nov 2011 | 4:30 pm

  In this episode of the Worship Ministry Catalyst Podcast, David and Kevin talk about the concert that David had recently attended. The Steven Curtis Chapman, Songs & Stories Tour. As we say on the podcast, if you haven’t been to it, you should go! And there’s plenty of time to go catch a concert!!! We also talk about the solution Keven & the guys from AGI came up with for their Subs and some other fun stuff!!! Whether you’re new or have been listening for quite some time, we would love to hear form you! Connect with us on twitter (@wmcatalyst) and facebook…

• Worship Minsitry Catalyst Podcast – Episode 0100 – The 100th!

  David Lindner

  31 Oct 2011 | 4:10 pm

  In this 100th episode of the Worship Ministry Catalyst we talk about a lot of the great memories we’ve made over the 100 episodes of this podcast. We specifically want to thank you for listening to this podcast for so long! We love doing this and we’re thankful for all the feedback we’ve gotten from you and your sharing with us how we’ve helped you in various ways. Just so you understand, we’re not experts. We’re just a couple of worship pastors just like you and we wanted to share what we know with you, in the hopes that it helps you do what you do better!

• 

  Christian Web Trends Blog

• Do People Really Buy Apple Products Because of Their Why?

  Paul Steinbrueck

  27 Jan 2012 | 3:37 pm

  In yesterday’s post, The Secret to the Success of Apple, MLK and the Wright Brothers, we kicked off a series discussing the revolutionary concept outlined in Simon Sinek’s book Start With Why: People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it. While most organizations try to sell people on what they do, the truly inspiring leaders and organizations start with why and invite you to join their cause.   (It’s hard to boil an entire book and a concept this big, so read yesterday’s post if you haven’t already.) If you’re not sold on the idea yet,…

• The Secret to the Success of Apple, MLK and the Wright Brothers

  Paul Steinbrueck

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:43 am

  How do you explain when some people achieve things that seem to defy all the assumptions? For example… Earlier this week Apple reported record revenue and profit. How could Apple do this when so many other computer and electronics companies are struggling and in a recession no less? How is it that Martin Luther King Jr successfully led the civil rights movement? There were lots of other people talking about civil rights for decades before he came along. How did the Wright Brothers become the first people to achieve powered flight when there were other better educated, better funded groups…

• Check Out The Impact the Stop SOPA Internet Blackout Day Had on Congress

  Paul Steinbrueck

  20 Jan 2012 | 11:05 am

  If you’re wondering what if any impact Wednesday’s Internet Blackout Day had.  Check out this graphic showing the change in congressional support for and against SOPA before and after Internet Blackout Day.  The information comes from http://projects.propublica.org/sopa/  (At the time of this post, it’s now 63 for and 122 against). Yes, we can make a difference.  

• Google Search Integrates Google Plus. Makes Search Results Social.

  Paul Steinbrueck

  20 Jan 2012 | 8:03 am

  Google has taken another step towards the merging of search results and social media with the addition of  ”Personal Results,” search results taken from the social media activity in Google+. Kurt Steinbrueck published an excellent article titled Google+ Invades Google’s Search Results explaining this on ChristianSEOGuys.com Google is now using people’s connections via Google+ to influence the results people see in the search results.  You have to be logged into Google and have a Google+  account to see the change.  Any content that has been shared by you, the people in…

• Stop SOPA and Support Internet Blackout Day

  Paul Steinbrueck

  18 Jan 2012 | 6:19 am

  The Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and its Senate companion, the Protect IP Act (PIPA) are intended to strengthen protections against copyright infringement and intellectual property theft, but they would be a machete for an issue that needs a scalpel. If SOPA/PIPA were to be passed by Congress any site where a user posted copyrighted material could be sued and shut down. If enacted, this legislation could bring down all social media sites including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and WordPress. It would stifle startups, creativity and online collaboration. Even OurChurch.Com would be at risk as we…

• 

  Goodmanson

• MonkDev Job Opening: Sales / Account Executive

  D. Goodmanson

  12 Jan 2012 | 11:46 am

  Monk Development, Inc. – San Diego (Greater San Diego Area) – MonkDev is an industry leading, innovative web development and software as a service company based in San Diego, CA. MonkDev is one of the largest web developers and fastest growing private companies in San Diego. MonkDev provides web solutions across all industries but are thought leaders in the non-profit space, where thousands of churches, ministries and other non-profits use our services. Sales / Account Executive, Want to join a World Class Team? Job Description: We are looking for a Sales Superstar to join our…

• San Diego CTO Forum

  D. Goodmanson

  12 Jan 2012 | 11:06 am

  Are you in San Diego and lead tech? Etienne De Bruin launched the San Diego CTO Forum and their first event had a wait list. Join in the great exchange happening at http://www.sdcto.com/ A group for CTO’s based in San Diego to get together, share challenges, solutions and a beer.

• EO Accelerator – San Diego Startups and Entrepreneurs

  D. Goodmanson

  21 Dec 2011 | 5:12 pm

  Are you a start-up or entrepreneur in the San Diego area? I serve on the board The Entrepreneurs’ Organization that is launching an Accelerator program here in San Diego in the first quarter of 2012. This is EO’s facilitated learning program for entrepreneurs in the emerging space – those with annual sales of $250,000 to $1 million and under age 47. The idea is to help grow the next generation of entrepreneurs and to provide them with the tools to climb past that $1 million mark. Accelerator classes are small as the program operates with a maximum of 30 participants. I strongly…

• Communications 3.0 Trends that will impact your ministry.

  D. Goodmanson

  19 Dec 2011 | 12:45 pm

  Read the Communication 3.0 article at Outcomes With the growth of the web, new forms of communication are becoming dominant. Old methods of communication are impacted by this change. For example, the U.S. Postal Service is considering the elimination of Saturday delivery because mail is down 26 percent in 5 years. Or look at the newspaper industry. We are seeing not only new ways to read the news, but a whole transformation of the industry. Technology’s growth creates behavioral and organizational change in deep ways. These changes require your organization to communicate and interact…

• Regional GCM Collectives

  D. Goodmanson

  2 Dec 2011 | 11:21 am

  The GCM Collective invites you to join in regional GCM Collectives with other missional leaders. In a collective you will experience peer-learning; what others are doing, what is working, what they are learning and how they have dealt with similar challenges you currently face. Each Collective will setup regular opportunities to meet in person and interact in a private group within the GCM Collective Community website for you to dig deeper with these peers and share successes and challenges going forward together. The goal is for you to be able to share experiences, resources and support to…

• 

  Ron Edmondson

• 7 Types of People I See at the Gym

  Ron Edmondson

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  I am more of an outdoor exercise person, but in the winter, I frequent the gym. I belong to the gym on our local university campus, so I’m usually one of the old guys. It has made me more aware of my surroundings. I sometimes feel uncomfortable, like everyone is thinking “Who’s the old guy?”. Recently I started observing the different type of people who come to the gym. Here are 7 types of people I’ve found at the gym: Stalkers – They scope out one person and always seem to use the equipment next to them. They are at the gym to make connections, for one…

• 7 Signs of a Weak Leader

  Ron Edmondson

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  A youth pastor emailed me recently. He’s frustrated that his pastor continually caves into pressures of a few leaders in the church. They are not supportive of the youth ministry, even though it’s the fastest growing area of the church. The complaint they have? The ministry is costing far more than it brings into the church. Young people are coming to the church in growing numbers, but without their parents. Young people don’t usually contribute to the church, so it’s causing an issue with some of the deacons. The pastor was involved and supportive in the expansion of…

• A Major Reason People Fail…

  Ron Edmondson

  25 Jan 2012 | 2:35 pm

  Related posts: 5 Major Reasons Marriages Fail The Reason Most Things Never Get Done… 7 Ways To Recover After A Major Failure Or Mistake

• 3 C’s of Successful Leadership

  Ron Edmondson

  25 Jan 2012 | 6:10 am

  To succeed as a leader you need to succeed at character, commitment and competence. Character – Character is who you are when no one is looking. It’s your level of honesty and integrity, and the way you deal with pride and humility. Character admits personal failure, isn’t fake, and has genuine concern for others. Character determines who will trust you enough to follow you. Commitment – Commitment is what keeps you going when everyone else is quitting. That’s what leaders do. Leaders spur momentum in times of trepidation. Leaders take people where there know…

• People Don’t Know What They Don’t Know

  Ron Edmondson

  24 Jan 2012 | 12:03 pm

  It’s simple…but oh so important to remember… It’s a principle true in leadership and life People don’t know what they don’t know It’s hard to hold an employee accountable for something they never knew You can’t expect your spouse to remember things you never told him or her It’s hard to be disappointed no one comforted you in your pain if they didn’t know you were hurting Your child can’t live up to a standard you never set People don’t know what they don’t know If you want them to know…don’t assume they…

• 

  Ed Stetzer

• Weekly Wrap & Church Signs of the Week

  27 Jan 2012 | 2:00 pm

  Each Friday, we have two features-- a weekly wrap of posts earlier in the week and a church signs of the week. Starting today, we combine them. Earlier this week at EdStetzer.com • Reputations: What I Imagine Newt Gingrich Wishes and What We Can Learn from His Mistakes • How Should We Remember Joe Paterno? • Monday is for Missiology: Christopher Wright on Christian Mission • "Why I Hate Religion, But Love Jesus," A Video Worth Watching • New Research: Nearly 70% of American Voters Take Religion into Consideration When Voting for a Candidate • A Closer Look: Jesus and Atonement in…

• On Heretics and Helpfulness: Relating to Those Outside of Orthodoxy

  27 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am

  How do we relate in a helpful way with those who are (or are perceived to be) outside of orthodoxy? When you choose to interact with people with such views, there are certainly consequences to pay but, I propose, there can be benefits to reap in the right circumstances. Bad examples exist where evangelical Christians have been used by those outside orthodoxy to legitimize their aberrant views. In addition, the scriptures warn us away from false teachers. Yet, I believe in interaction around the scriptures in a way that leads to helpful conversations and theological clarity when such people…

• T.D. Jakes, the Trinity, and Truth

  26 Jan 2012 | 8:54 am

  I've never met Texas pastor T.D. Jakes. Not long ago, we both spoke at the same event-- we served as the co-keynote speakers for the Evangelical Press Association meeting in his hometown of Dallas, but did not meet-- and that was about as close as my association has been. He is certainly well known and influential... and in the "evangelical press" again this week. In evangelical circles, few issues have been as controversial lately as James MacDonald's invitation of T. D. Jakes to an event called The Elephant Room. Many people expressed great concern and, to quote Mark Driscoll, MacDonald…

• A Closer Look: Jesus and Atonement in the Old Testament

  25 Jan 2012 | 7:00 am

  This week we are taking a closer look at the atonement in the Old Testament. This essay, featured in the HSCB Study Bible, is penned by Old Testament scholar Eugene Merrill. Dr. Merrill has likely forgotten more about the Old Testament than many of us will ever know. I'm thankful for his work and for his continued commitment to raising future scholars as he serves as Distinguished Professor of Old Testament Studies at Dallas Theological Seminary. As I'm doing all year long, I am giving away a free HCSB study Bible to a commenter. To be entered to win this week's giveaway, share with us your…

• New Research: Nearly 70% of American Voters Take Religion into Consideration When Voting for a Candidate

  24 Jan 2012 | 1:00 pm

  One of the underlying themes in the media coverage of the current race for the Republican Presidential nomination has been the religious beliefs of the candidates themselves. But should it be? Do Americans really take issue with a political candidates religious beliefs? LifeWay Research has just released new findings in which nearly 70 percent of American adults say their votes are impacted, either positively or negatively, by the religious conviction of a candidate. In fact, the research shows that a candidates religion can be more of a detriment to their campaign than a benefit. Nearly…

• 

  daveferguson.org

• Interview with Wayne Cordeiro - Story of Sifting

  Dave Ferguson

  24 Jan 2012 | 4:45 pm

  As President of the 2012 Expoential Conference I recently had the opportunity to interview Wayne Cordeiro about the big idea of his new book, SiftedYou should definitely give this podcast a listen as Wayne speaks very candidly about some of the struggles and pain of ministry and how God got him through it and taught him much needed lessons.  Wayne will be leading a main session and his book will be a featured book at this years Exponential Conference.  Check it out by ciicking HERE

• What Stats Should Matter To Churches?

  Dave Ferguson

  22 Jan 2012 | 10:17 pm

  In the movie Moneyball, Brad Pitt plays the part of the Oakland A’s General Manager Billy Beane.  While most of the baseball old timers and scouts had a set of stats they used to look for young prospects, Billy Beane understood that the only stat that mattered was runs scored.  Through statistical analysis he changed the game of baseball forever and was credited with indirectly bringing a championship to the Boston Red Sox for the first time in 85 years.  In much the same way churches should not confuse a variety of different stats like attendance and offering with the one stat that…

• How To Choose A Justice Cause To Champion

  Dave Ferguson

  2 Jan 2012 | 10:07 am

  Ever feel overwhelmed by so many needs and so much injustice in the world that you end up paralyzed and do very little?  I was feeling that way and Dr. Soong-Chan Rah gave me some insight in how to respond when there are so many causes and so little time.  I was at a special gathering planned by CCDA and World Relief to inform leaders like myself about the need for immigration reform. Sitting with me were Troy Jackson and Kirsten Strand, two good friends and leaders who have a great understanding about restorative justice issues.  In the middle of this gathering I began to feel convicted…

• Ross' Story: "Finding My Way Back To God"

  Dave Ferguson

  31 Dec 2011 | 3:47 pm

• Gift Mart: It's Growth, Reproduction and Community Impact!

  Dave Ferguson

  17 Dec 2011 | 2:45 pm

  "What an amazing event!"  That was my reaction this morning as my family and I helped out at two of our four 2011 Gift Marts.  In this interview you will hear from Kirsten Strand, Community 4:12 Director who along with some friends started this Gift Mart 9 years ago.  The first Gift Mart had about 100 volunteers and 800 toys donated and we gave back to the school about $800.  And this year at just our two Aurora Gift Marts we will have more than 1000 volunteers, 8000 toys donated and give back to the schools about $10,000. Those numbers will increase dramatically when we get the totals…

• 

  tonymorganlive.com

• Being Prepared: It Takes Little Steps

  tony

  26 Jan 2012 | 8:15 am

  UPDATE: Mack Harris, Emily’s dad, passed away this morning. Here’s the post from earlier today. My father-in-law was diagnosed with leukemia in November 2010. After a couple of rounds of chemotherapy, he enjoyed about nine months of remission. Unfortunately, that ended last fall. Now he’s living his final days here on Earth. Mack Harris on the right. Emily Morgan second from the left. Emily, my wife, has been back to Ohio every month for the last several months. She was there again last week. She has spent some cherished time with her dad and mom. Last night, she wrote this…

• Art Imitating Life?

  tony

  25 Jan 2012 | 4:12 pm

  Abby, my 11-year-old, gave me this picture for Christmas. It’s now hanging in the home office. The picture was her idea. She drew it. I think she’s a pretty perceptive young lady. It captures my personality very well. I’m all about business. I want to develop the strategy and work the strategy. But, I have a creative bent. I like life when it’s filled with new ideas and new opportunities. What does the picture on your office wall say about you?  

• Stop & Start 2012: Ben Stroup

  tony

  25 Jan 2012 | 11:16 am

  Ben Stroup As part of the current series addressing the shifts leaders should consider making in the new year, I connected with Ben Stroup. Ben is a writer, blogger and consultant and he helped me produce the eBooks that I’ve released in the last twelve months. Here’s our interview: TONY: What’s one thing that leaders and/or organizations (businesses, churches, non-profits, etc.) should consider stopping in 2012? BEN: Stop being efficient. The larger the organization or church, the more likely they are to move toward efficiencies. Manufacturing is built around the goal of…

• Stop & Start 2012: Jeff Henderson

  tony

  24 Jan 2012 | 7:01 am

  Jeff Henderson As part of my series on things leaders should stop and start doing, I connected with Jeff Henderson,  the Lead Pastor of Gwinnett Church which is a campus of North Point Ministries. What are some of the shifts leaders need to make going forward? Here are Jeff’s thoughts: Stop comparing. There’s far too much time and energy wasted on studying the competition. We will never find our true potential by comparing ourselves to others. Only by comparing ourselves and our organizations to our own potential will we find unchartered territories and possibilities. The people…

• Stop & Start 2012: Eric Geiger

  tony

  20 Jan 2012 | 12:44 pm

  Eric Geiger As part of the series on leadership to start this year, I connected with Eric Geiger, Vice President of the Church Resource Division at LifeWay Christian Resources. We talked about the shifts leaders need to make going forward. Here’s our brief interview: TONY: One thing leaders should consider stopping? ERIC: Something good that is stealing energy and resources from the best… For church leaders, this may be a program that yields little fruit or a meeting that is always on the calendar but never results in any life-giving ministry decisions. A lot of leaders stress better…

• 

  TerryStorch.com

• My Word(s) for 2012

  Terry Storch

  1 Jan 2012 | 5:32 pm

  This will be my fourth year of doing three words. Chris Brogan inspired me in 2009, and I have been “all in” since. This exercise, and time to reflect and focus on three words, has proven to be really useful and fruitful. Here is a look back at my previous years’ words: 2009 – Fun, Global, Leadership 2010 – Healthy, Flexable, Inspire 2011 – Faith, Focus, Intensity However, 2012 is going to look a little different. As I have been praying and seeking God I couldn’t settle on three Words…only one word is jumping out. It is much more of a theme that will become…

• Cycling Training – Base 1 Week 1

  Terry Storch

  12 Dec 2011 | 7:47 am

  Last week was my first week of cycling training. This is the first year I have actually “trained”, and have a plan. Thanks to Training Peaks Virtual Coach – I have a plan that leads me right up into the season, and then the Training Peaks Annual Plan kicks in and takes me through the season. My personality type of an ENTJ really appreciates the schedule and planning…it pushes me to “Just Do It” when the weather is bad, or when I don’t want to get out of bed. Many of my friends want to know what my plan is…so every Sunday/Monday I will post the…

• 90 Day Thoughts about Shakeology

  Terry Storch

  9 Oct 2011 | 3:21 pm

  As I close in on my 90 day “trial” with Shakeology I thought I would share my thoughts and results with you. First you might be asking what is Shakeology? For that…you should first read this. So, my first 90 days, or 3 months have been fantastic…more energy, more nutrition, better digestion, and shedding fat. My goal is no longer weight loss, as a cyclist I am striving hard for the power to weight ratio…so I am trying to be as strong and light as possible. This means trim fat, add muscle…and with the help of Shakeology, a simply healthy lifestyle, and my…

• 2011 – My First Year Racing [recap]

  Terry Storch

  2 Oct 2011 | 5:14 pm

  Well, the 2011 cycling season is over…and wow, it was awesome, but a lot different than I had originally imagined. I wanted to take a quick moment and “remember” the season so I can document some great cycling progress. Personally for me, I am so about forward progress I hardly ever look back…and that can sometimes be a bad thing. To get started I should by saying that “racing” was never the goal. Simply put, the goal of the 2011 season was to have my first century ride at the Hotter’N Hell Tour in Wichita Falls, Tx. 2011 was my 3rd season on the bike…

• Misguided Significance

  Terry Storch

  20 Sep 2011 | 8:27 am

  What is the most common first question you ask when you meet someone for the first time? Think about it…it might vary a little, but a random poll this last month left me with an overwhelming percentage of people asking…”So, what do you do for a living?” or “Where do you work?” At first, this seemed fairly normal, and well…ok. We typically want to find elements where we might be in common, right? But, after some processing I have come to realize it’s this simple question being first that is revealing some core significance issues. Ok, so let me…

• 

  CatalystSpace | Catablog

• End of the Week Links

  info@catalystspace.com

  27 Jan 2012 | 9:03 am

  From Catalyst: 7 Steps For Creating a Creative System to be Creative by Jeremie Kubicek SHARE YOUR CATALYST STORY OF IMPACT!!! Apply to be a Catalyst INTERN! Beyond the Words- the Truth of a Story by Aaron Harris Wow, It's been 21 Years by Christine Caine   From the Web: Poisonous Root by Pete Wilson Why Vision is More Important Than Strategy by Michael Hyatt 21 Essential Community Management Resources from Mashable People Matter- 3 Temptations Leaders Face 3 Relevant Ways to Gain Influence by Tim Peters

• Super Early Bird Deadline + Win TWO Tickets to One Day ATLANTA

  info@catalystspace.com

  26 Jan 2012 | 8:15 am

  TODAY is the SUPER Early Bird Deadline for Catalyst ONE DAY ATLANTA. This is your chance to get the best rates on Catalyst ONE DAY tickets. Catalyst ONE DAY Atlanta is focused on practical leadership. Andy Stanley & Craig Groeschel will be sharing their experience, insights & strategies for creating healthy culture. Not only will you be learning from their personal experience, there will be multiple sessions of Q&A and candid conversation. See what attendees in Houston said about their experience. For more info, call us up! 678.225.3130 and ask for Jon Hout or go online:…

• Do You Trust Your Team?

  info@catalystspace.com

  25 Jan 2012 | 5:31 pm

  Trust is a huge part of having a highly functional team. One of the greatest talks I’ve ever heard on TRUST and the importance of trust on a team is from Andy Stanley. In fact, listen to a leadership podcast that Andy recorded. Great insights on this podcast. Highly recommend that you and your entire team take time to listen to this podcast together, and then discuss it. Our team did recently, and was incredibly valuable. Here are a few main points and thoughts after listening to Andy talk about Trust vs. Suspicion: 1. Being trustworthy doesn’t mean you’ll be flawless and…

• Beyond the Words - the Truth of a Story

  info@catalystspace.com

  24 Jan 2012 | 7:04 pm

  Stories are powerful. They are like guides that lead us through a narrative and into a world that lives between the words - revealing so much more than the mere words themselves. A story contains the power to ignite desire in a person; the power to portray a principle; the power to create a new space in which one can take refuge; and even the power to invoke a visceral response in the listener. Stories are like food for the soul - nourishing it and helping it grow. More than anything, stories contain the power to heal. Several years ago, after a man I barely knew boldly shared his story while…

• 7 Steps For Creating A Creative System To Be Creative

  info@catalystspace.com

  23 Jan 2012 | 3:02 pm

  That is a mouthful, I know. As a right-brained leader in a left-brained business world I am often asked how I have time to think and/or activate creative ideas. The easy answer is that it's hard. So let me share some ideas for you if you happen to be right-brained or would like to be a more creative leader. Let me start with a philosophic view of creativity in leadership... First, I value strategic thinking and make time for it. Second, I don't buy in to the mainstream's media choices for what is good or follow "group speak" well. Third, I realize that my creative ideas are not always for…

• 

  Anne Jackson Writes

• Hope (A Farewell Post)

  Anne Jackson

  5 Jan 2012 | 2:24 pm

  You may find yourself without hope today. A little over a year ago, I found myself in the darkest time of my life. My marriage had ended. There were days I couldn’t leave my house. Days I hurt myself. Days I didn’t eat. Or sleep. Or care. I wanted to die. I saw no purpose in life. The only thing I (barely) had strength to do was ask. I needed help, and I knew it. Because of the generosity and insight of my friends, I was able to receive intensive counseling at an inpatient facility in the southwest. Walking in, I thought it was my last chance. Nothing had pulled me out of the…

• Here, Now

  Anne Jackson

  25 Oct 2011 | 12:43 am

  Open hands. Where are my feet? Here, now. Feeling each breath; no control; automatic. Use them all…my prayer. Use my hands to comfort; Use my feet to explore; Use my breath to show how grateful I am for life. Body and spirit as an act of praise. The only sacrifice you desire; Holy and living for you.

• Drink it Deeply

  Anne Jackson

  12 Oct 2011 | 6:02 pm

  “Drink it deeply,” she said, about the changing colors in the trees and the well-worn paths of the forest. “I forgot how,” I responded. “Will it return to me?” My concern was valid. I stared, parched and thirsty, into the faded and falling leaves. I laid down on a bench, praying the earth would take me and embrace me as her own. The only thing I felt was the wood supporting me. As dusk softened the sunset, I got up from the bench and continued on the trail, not oblivious to the beauty around me. But I was numb to it; maybe even jealous of the communion…

• 

  Ragamuffin Soul

• The Problem With Giants

  loswhit

  27 Jan 2012 | 12:06 pm

  We have a way about us. We have a way around us. We have a way throughout us. We, in all our humanity, have figured out how to take something so small, so tiny, so non essential, and turn it into the singular thing that takes us down. It’s our greatest gift and our strongest curse. Our ability to process. Yesterday I tweeted this… Our ability as humans to make an uncrossable valley out of a crack in the sidewalk is one of a kind. Step Back. Look Again. Step Over. Walk. Today you are facing what seems like a giant. It may actually be a giant. It probably is not. But if it is a giant follow…

• The Problem With Guarding Your Heart #SinglePeople

  loswhit

  26 Jan 2012 | 12:34 pm

  I never got it. I mean all the Christian chicks were saying it and all the Christian guys hated it. Mostly because we didn’t know what the hell it meant. I remember I wanted to date this girl Stephanie SO bad. (Name has been changed to protect the ease of the make out) “Now Carlos, she wants to date you but make sure you guard her heart.” I’d always reply with…”OF COURSE!” and then figure out how to make out by hour 4 of the first date. #Guys When I would attend the Campus Crusade For Christ meetings I would hear it ALL the time. And I never knew of…

• Church Plants, Airplanes, and Bulldozers

  loswhit

  25 Jan 2012 | 2:59 pm

  Gibraltar is the only major airport where the runway actually intersects with a major highway. When a plane has to take off or land,car traffic is shut down. I feel like this is a perfect example of how sometimes, although maybe with good intentions, our churches literally plow people over in order to take off. When we start new churches and focus so hard on the business of the church, instead of the purpose of the church, we end up building airport runways across the major center of our communities and somehow feel like the people in the community wanted our new airstrip. Build INTO your…

• The Elephant Room Is Tomorrow!

  loswhit

  24 Jan 2012 | 12:37 pm

  The Elephant Room Is TOMORROW! Here is the deal. You can STILL make it to one of the satellite locations and you can find out one of the locations here! The names on this years list of conversations are Mark Driscoll, TD Jakes, Steven Furtick, and others. I PROMISE you that you will not want to miss this conversation. So yea. This is a last second yell out to the Ragamuffin Soul community to take a few hours tomorrow and see some grown men, have conversations out loud, that most people are having in private. Carlos

• How To Use Social Media For Effective And Authentic Conversation

  loswhit

  24 Jan 2012 | 8:59 am

  I don’t censor my blog comments. I just don’t. I mean if someone is being a complete @$$, I’ll let them for a moment and then shut them up. I’m not here to make friends. I’m here to have honest conversation that disturbs and disrupts people to see Christ’s face fresh again. Here are a few thoughts I have on how to use social media to have honest and authentic conversation. 1. Realize that you are not going to convince anyone of anything they don’t already believe through online banter. Correct me if I’m wrong but I don’t know of anyone who…

• 

  Pomomusings

• “Weak Force” – An Installation Sermon by Tony Hoshaw

  Adam Walker Cleaveland

  23 Jan 2012 | 11:36 pm

  Yesterday, I was installed as Associate Pastor at First Presbyterian Church here in Ashland, Oregon. In addition, I had the privilege of hearing my good friend Tony Hoshaw preach at my installation. For those of you who have been following my ordination journey since the beginning, you’ll remember that my initial invitation of Tony to preach at my ordination is what set things in motion for my ordination to be cancelled in 2008 and led to my transfer from Kendall Presbytery to the Presbytery of San Francisco. So it was as if things had come full circle, and it was great for Tony to be…

• Children, Youth and a New Kind of Christianity Conference

  Adam Walker Cleaveland

  17 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am

  I’m exactly 2 months into my first ordained call as Associate Pastor at First Presbyterian Church of Ashland. Starting just two weeks before Advent made for a busy beginning, in addition to…oh, getting ordained, having a baby and getting through Christmas and the holidays. Part of my responsibilities, that are different from previous church positions I’ve held, now include working with our children’s ministries program: coordinating Sunday School, VBS and all of the other things that go along with children’s ministry. So when I heard about the Children, Youth and…

• A Pie a Day Giveaway Blog Worth Reading

  Adam Walker Cleaveland

  20 Dec 2011 | 8:00 am

  If you remember when I posted about preaching at First Presbyterian Church of Ashland back in October, I mentioned that someone baked me a mixed berry pie. And it was amazing. When Karen Amarotico gave the pie to me, she let me know that she’s actually baking a pie a day for a whole year and giving them to people. First of all, I think this is pretty amazing because I can’t imagine coming up with different pies and finding the time to bake one every day. And in the spirit of a wonderful life challenge like this, Karen is also blogging about the experience, the pies and the people…

• Now you can watch the #letsordainadam Ordination Service

  Adam Walker Cleaveland

  12 Dec 2011 | 5:23 pm

  I know that many of you have been dying to watch my ordination service. One of the members from Asbury United Methodist Church surprised me by showing up with his video camera and so now the service is online for all to see here. The video is about 50 minutes long, and I don’t imagine that it’s something that you’ll want to watch in its entirety, so here are a few highlights: 08:32: Watch Rev. Steve Wilde checking out the #letsordainadam hashtag on his iPhone. 10:40: Rev. Steve Wilde’s sermon – definitely worth listening to 29:05: Rev. Matt Knapp talks about the…

• What are the Benefits and Dangers of Traditions in Youth Ministry?

  Adam Walker Cleaveland

  9 Dec 2011 | 8:00 am

  Over the next year, I’m going to be a contributor on the slant33 website. It’s a really great group of contributors (you can see them all here). Last month I wrote on the topic of traditions in youth ministry, and I wanted to share those thoughts with you here. Creating rituals and traditions in a youth ministry program is a great way to build cohesion and a sense of community. When I started at my current church, I was told about the Pig of Truth and immediately thought it was a bit ridiculous. At the end of each youth group, we get out a little wax pig candle holder and light a…

• 

  Tall Skinny Kiwi

• Tall skinny elves at The Hobbit casting call

  Andrew

  28 Jan 2012 | 12:10 am

  I took my tallest kids over to Lower Hutt today for The Hobbit casting call. Filming starts next month for The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey and they were looking for extras: the short, the tall, the skinny, men with big biceps [not me} and those with 'character faces'. Unfortunately, 3000 people turned up and they could only handle 800. The rest of us were turned away but told we could apply online. The Herald said they were "overwhelmed" but it should have been a surprise. We all want to be in the movie! Bummer! My kids and I would have made great elves. I am 1.96cm (6'5'') and my son,…

• Sweet Voice Amber Hunter

  Andrew

  27 Jan 2012 | 1:18 pm

  Amber Hunter has been giving songs away online for years but now is creating her first CD. She led worship at our roundtable gathering at Cornerstone Festival last year and we really loved having her there. She has a story to tell. Watch the video and if you want to help out, visit her project at Kickstarter.

• What if church could be more like summer camp?

  Andrew

  26 Jan 2012 | 3:04 pm

  Camps are cool. My youngest kids went to Christian camps last week. TJ (9) went to El Rancho and Hannah (14) went to Lakeview Bible Camp with some Gospel Chapel people from Foxton. They had a great time. They came home with huge smiles and heads full of memories. I also have very fond memories of New Zealand camps when I was younger. Camps are where you can hang out late at night, dress badly, discover yourself, fight the giggles at 2 in the morning, watch the uninhibited speaker embarrass himself publicly, eat poorly cooked food, get up surprisingly early to pray, create and perform silly…

• Top 15 Ways Pastors Get Rich

  Andrew

  24 Jan 2012 | 10:48 pm

  Ever been ripped off by a pastor? It's embarrassing. In San Francisco many years ago, my wife and I were relieved of our wedding rings at a Pentecostal meeting. The mega-church preacher had flown in "unexpectantly" from Argentina to host this spontaneous meeting for us pastors and leaders. I don't remember if I handed over my ring before or after he put his hand on my head and knocked me backwards since it was all a little cloudy that night, and still is, actually, but I do remember wondering how the pastor was going to get all that jewelry through customs. And what he would do with the money…

• The Bourne Ecclesiology

  Andrew

  20 Jan 2012 | 7:44 pm

  Can't wait for the next movie in the Bourne series. Here's a suggestion.

• 

  Dan Kimball: Vintage Faith

• Wednesday Weird Bible Verse - Judges 3:20-22 - blade, belly-fat and bowels

  DanKimball

  25 Jan 2012 | 2:02 am

  "Ehud then approached him...and said, “I have a message from God for you.” As the king rose from his seat, Ehud reached with his left hand, drew the sword from his right thigh and plunged it into the king’s belly....

• Google+ and Facebook

  DanKimball

  19 Jan 2012 | 7:57 pm

  for those going on Google+ and want to connect there http://www.gplus.to/dankimball It seems that more activity is happening on Google+ lately. I am still not sure how to be working with both Google+ and Facebook. It will be interesting to...

• Wednesday Weird Bible Verse - Judges 16:17 - shave your head and become weak

  DanKimball

  18 Jan 2012 | 4:26 am

  "If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak as any other man.” - Judges 16:17

• Wednesday Weird Bible Verse - 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 - women be silent

  DanKimball

  3 Jan 2012 | 2:45 pm

  "Women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is...

• Wednesday-Weird-Bible-Verse - Deuteronomy 7:2 - Show them no mercy

  DanKimball

  28 Dec 2011 | 4:49 am

  Deuteronomy 7:2 - "and when the LORD your God has delivered them over to you and you have defeated them, then you must destroy them totally. Make no treaty with them, and show them no mercy." * Two great book...

• 

  WithoutWax.tv by Pete Wilson

• Things That Shine

  Pete Wilson

  27 Jan 2012 | 7:58 am

  I got a phone call on Wednesday that blew me away. A guy called me to apologize for something he had publicly written about me over two years ago. As he apologized I played it off as if I had totally forgotten about what he had said. But in my moments of doubt and insecurity the words he wrote about me would come flooding into my mind. I could see them as clearly as if I was holding them on a piece of paper in front of me, because in many ways that had been etched into my mind. The conversation I had with him was incredibly healing, but it got me thinking. Criticism happens, right? I…

• Perks

  Pete Wilson

  26 Jan 2012 | 7:58 am

  Time Magazine had a great article about employee perks at some of the top companies around the country. For instance, at Mattel, the World’s largest toy maker helps its employees find their inner child by shutting its offices at 1 p.m. every Friday. Microsoft offers their software engineers an organic spa for letting off steam. If you work at Factset, a financial research firm, you get free lunches, but there’s also an onsite Pie Truck, Chinese Truck, and Cupcake Truck. Autodesk, a Mill Valley, California company, allows its employees to take a six week paid sabbatical every four years…

• Breaking The Silence

  Pete Wilson

  25 Jan 2012 | 7:46 am

  I believe sometimes you have to forgive someone, not for their sake, but for your freedom. This past weekend my friend and neighbor, Will, did one of the bravest things I’ve ever seen. He shared with us his story of sexual abuse and how it led to a double life. I know, statistically, there are hundreds of you who read this blog who have been a victim of a similar devastating and painful act. I have no right to tell you what you should do or how you should handle it, but I’m praying if there’s hidden pain in your life that you can find a safe person to confess that hurt and…

• Voices In My Head

  Pete Wilson

  24 Jan 2012 | 7:17 am

  Like everyone else I go through seasons where I doubt myself and my effectiveness. When you have a public ministry you constantly have people in your ear saying things like… I wish you preached more like this… I wish you counseled like this…. I wish you led like…. I wish you interacted like this… I wish you spent your time like this… It’s easy to start to doubt and wonder if you should be more this or that.  Last week I spent some time with some crazy gifted friends and as I watched them do their thing it made me doubt even further. I spent an…

• Poisonous Root

  Pete Wilson

  23 Jan 2012 | 8:01 am

  Hebrews 12:15 Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. You may be justified in your bitterness, but it still contaminates everything. You may have every right to not forgive certain people in your life. But you need to know bitterness contaminates everything. It spreads far and wide and deep. And maybe the most dangerous and destructive thing about bitterness is that it doesn’t remain isolated to the source of bitterness, but spreads to all of your relationships. Left…

• 

  Perry Noble | Leadership, Vision & CreativityPerry Noble | Leadership, Vision & Creativity

• Your Team Probably Isn’t A Good Team If…

  perry

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:39 am

  You probably don’t have a good team if… You do not enjoy being around one another. You hardly ever have any fun together. You think everyone in the room (except for you) is a complete moron. You don’t trust each other. You constantly interrupt each other without letting the other person actually complete their thoughts. You rehearse the fights you perceive to be coming in your mind before the meeting. You have no one on the team that will actually speak the truth. You always look for the easy solution rather than the right one. You are not fully engaged in the meetings that…

• People Matter (3 Temptations Leaders Face)

  perry

  25 Jan 2012 | 6:49 am

  One of the most challenging issues when it comes to leadership and ministry is dealing with people.  (Other than that, it’s quite simple.)  :-) AND, if we are not careful we will allow ourselves to become so distracted that we will actually begin to care for other things way more than the people that Jesus died for and has called us to take care of. Recently in an all staff meeting I shared with our staff three things that we are tempted to love more than people…and how we’re going to do all we can to make sure that because people matter to God they matter to us as well.

• A Letter From Pastor P To NewSpring Church

  perry

  24 Jan 2012 | 6:17 am

  Howdy NewSpring Church, SEVEN things I want to share with you today… #1 – I know I say it every week…but it’s just true.  Sunday was AMAZING as hundreds of people took their next step in their walk with Christ (over 25 people received Christ!)  I’ve never seen a public invitation like the one we witnessed this past Sunday in the history of our church.  WOW! #2 – Remember a few things that we talked about Sunday… All too often we want to expect great things from God but don’t want to put forth any energy to see them come to pass. Loving the…

• Stop Complaining About What You Don’t Have!

  perry

  23 Jan 2012 | 6:10 am

  One of the most common excuses that people seem to give for not doing something great for God (or at least trying something great) is that they don’t have BLANK, but if and when they get BLANK then they will do what God wants them to do. However, if we are not faithful with what we have NOW then how in the world is He supposed to trust us with what He wants NEXT? “But Perry,” you say, “I don’t have anything to offer.  Our church doesn’t have what other churches have.” I say bull! This thought occurred to me the other day when I was reading through…

• Seven Reasons I LOVE Our Children’s Ministry!

  perry

  19 Jan 2012 | 6:04 am

  #1 – It’s clean!  No nasty carpet!  No smells that make you want to projectile vomit.  No dirty floors!!!  I know that our kid’s area is clean…and that matters to every parent. #2 – It’s safe!  Background checks have been ran on every staff member (in our church) and every volunteer that has any contact with children (or students!)  There is a volunteer security team that makes sure random people do not just walk through our kid’s area…and there is a solid check-in system where not just anyone can come pick the child up from their class,…

• 

  MoreThanDodgeball.com

• How to Ask for a Raise

  Josh

  27 Jan 2012 | 2:15 pm

  Last week Group published their annual salary survey results for youth workers across the country. Don’t worry, they made sure that Kurt “money-bags” Johnston wasn’t included because it would have skewed things a lot higher (Josh, “I’m a little bitter” Griffin wrote that intro). The truth of the matter is most youth workers who are fortunate enough to get paid probably don’t get paid enough. And as a result, at some point you may feel the time has come to ask for a raise. Here are some thoughts on the subject: Pray It all starts with prayer. Take your requests to God and ask…

• HSM Weekend in Review: Volume 168

  Josh

  27 Jan 2012 | 12:54 pm

  Weekend Teaching Series: The Book (church-wide 40 Days in the Word campaign kickoff) Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible is the only rule of faith and practice and has been preserved and inspired. Service Length: 77 minutes Understandable Message: This weekend we kicked off our church-wide campaign called 40 Days in the Word. In HSM we get to take on the same subjects and theme as the rest of the church but put our own student-friendly spin on it. This weekend I made comparisons of books sales of Hunger Games and Harry Potter vs. the Bible. I also talked about preservation (using the Declaration…

• The Book Series Video

  Josh

  26 Jan 2012 | 2:18 pm

  Sweet new series video for The Book, HSM’s student version of the 40 Days in the Word church-wide. Parker is doing some awesome stuff with the videos, it’ll get new addition/expansion each week of the series, too! JG

• 1-Day Only: 99 Thoughts for Small Group Leaders – $2.99/each

  Josh

  26 Jan 2012 | 2:01 am

  Beyond excited when the gang over at Simply Youth Ministry told me that they were doing a 1-day sale on Doug Fields and I’s book, 99 Thoughts for Small Group Leaders.The book is normally $6.99 – TODAY only it is $2.99! A small group is a powerful place! Lives are changed. Important decisions are made. Spiritual growth is enhanced. Jokes are shared. Lifelong friendships are formed. Cliques disappear when a small group becomes a loving community. The result? Spiritually mature teenagers, empowered leaders, and a healthy youth ministry. Good small groups requires leadersÑand…

• Student Spiritual Life Whiteboard

  Josh

  25 Jan 2012 | 11:12 pm

  Got this picture mail of a freshman student’s spiritual whiteboard this week – made my day. Just wanted to share it (sorry the pic is so small)! JG

• 

  History in the Making

• Wednesday Morning Run-Down

  Ben Arment

  25 Jan 2012 | 7:47 am

  Hearing tons about the show Downton Abbey, but I'm noticing it's all the non-football people who watch it =) One of our special guests at Dream Year Weekend this Friday to Sunday in Charlotte is John Mark McMillan - to talk about his journey as a musical artist. Only 6 tickets left, would love for you to join us. Register HERE Spent the past two days consulting with the directors of a national leadership conference who flew into VB. My friend Doug Forehand loaned me his beachfront condo as a workspace, making me look really really good The Anthropologist by Anthropologie Why I could…

• Three Kinds of Conferences

  Ben Arment

  23 Jan 2012 | 9:01 am

  I'm over conferences. The way they've always been, that is. Generally, there are three kinds of them: The How-to ModelNuts-and-bolts ideas with instructional break-outs and sessions full of fill-in-the-blanks. The Influence ModelThe speakers are the draw. High profile folks. You see them at all the same events... a traveling herd. The Issues ModelOrganized around an issue. When you hear the name of the event, you get the punchline. But a new day's coming. There's a new kind of experience emerging that is reshaping the whole industry. And it's not the…

• FAQs: Dream Year Weekend

  Ben Arment

  23 Jan 2012 | 8:14 am

  As of this writing, there are only 6 seats remaining at the Magellan Idea Center in Charlotte this Friday-Sun, Jan 27-29 for Dream Year Weekend. I'd love for you to be one of them. Here are the top five questions I get about the Weekend: What if I don't know my dream?This is one of the reasons we created the Weekend. It allows you to explore your dream before you fully commit to it. We talk at length about the history of your dream and which ideas are viable. Couldn't I just catch the next one?After Charlotte, we're moving onto cities in the west. So if you…

• Scandalous Honor

  Ben Arment

  19 Jan 2012 | 9:00 am

  I love the expression of honor. But there's a tendency for honor to go up rather than down. Lavish gifts for people who already have much. A private jet to my conference so you'll spring for a private jet to your conference. @Referring to that baller as my friend on twitter so as to distinguish ourselves from all the other shmucks we ignore and practically grunt at in public... or refer to our assistants. I think the kind of honor Jesus was talking about was scandalous. It was a reversal of the kind of honor we naturally express. It was directed toward the guy in the lowest seat.

• You're Gonna Outwork Me

  Ben Arment

  19 Jan 2012 | 8:46 am

  Most of the time. You're gonna out-pace me, out-hustle me, out-run me. And as you're going by, I'll yell, "You go! Do that thing!" I will gladly lay it down. Sometimes I forget that my projects are not my children. But not for long.

• 

  Eugene Cho

• defend, rescue, and fight for the weak – and do it dignity

  Eugene Cho

  17 Jan 2012 | 2:01 am

  I’m sorry if this post depresses, discourages, or disturbs you. It’s not my intent but a reminder of the arduous work ahead for all of us. It’s the day after… The day after this nation (and many in the global community) celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We march, share inspiring quotes, and listen to compelling speeches. It’s a feel good day. But today is the day after – and the awareness of reality. A reality of certainly a better world from the days of Rosa Park and Dr. King but a reminder of  the long road ahead. Oh,we have a…

• celebrating martin luther king, jr…and acknowledging the Giver of such dreams…

  Eugene Cho

  16 Jan 2012 | 2:01 am

  Martin Luther King Jr. was an extraordinary person.  Not perfect but nevertheless, extraordinary.  While we remember his legacy again on this day…let’s not make the mistake of forgetting the God behind this extraordinary man. It’s way too easy to talk about MLK because so many people and groups of people want to own him as their own.  But they often don’t want to take or acknowledge all of him.  At the core of his life, Martin Luther King Jr. was a follower of Jesus Christ. His faith in Christ informed all that he sought to do as a civil rights leader. And that…

• born blind. full hearts. beautiful voice. dream big.

  Eugene Cho

  12 Jan 2012 | 2:01 am

  Wait! Before you decide not to click or read this blog entry because I’m talking about Korean Pop (K-Pop), I want you to do yourself a favor and read this. Actually, see this and more importantly, hear this song. I know. I know. You’re not K-Pop fans nor fans of ballads. I’m not either.  Heck, I don’t even know what’s popular in the States. I’ve never even seen an episode of American Idol or X Factor or The Voice or whatever else it’s called now. But couple days ago, I was working and stumbled onto YouTube and saw an episode of K-Pop Star –…

• “my name isn’t lady chinky eyes”

  Eugene Cho

  9 Jan 2012 | 2:01 am

  Did you see this? Probably not  because who cares about receipts from fast foot joints like Papa John’s? But if you look carefully, you’ll notice that an employee tried to be “funny” and wrote in “lady chinky eyes” to identify the Asian customer. Here’s 6 things you should know: 1. Umm, don’t hate. My slanted eyes are beautiful. 2. The customer’s name was 24-year-old Minhee Cho – the exact same name as my wife. Some of you asked and emailed me. Unless my wife has a private jet, she was not in New York this past weekend. She was…

• my review of mark driscoll’s book ‘real marriage’

  Eugene Cho

  6 Jan 2012 | 2:01 am

  . Tagged: mark driscoll, real marriage

• 

  9Marks Blog: Building Healthy Churches

• How Can Service Efforts Help a Church to Introduce People to Jesus?

  Michael McKinley

  27 Jan 2012 | 4:08 pm

    This article is simultaneously posted at leadershipjournal.net There's a lot of discussion out there about how a church's service efforts fits with its mission to spread the gospel.  But in my experience, there are two simple ways that a congregation's acts of mercy can help with its gospel witness: •       First, our deeds of mercy can create opportunities to share the gospel. As I speak, people are in the basement of our church building stocking the shelves of our food pantry.  At a typical Saturday distribution, hundreds of…

• For Associate Pastors: When Is it Time to Leave?

  Marcus Glover

  25 Jan 2012 | 8:12 am

  The following is a guest post from Brian Croft. Brian serves as the senior pastor of Auburndale Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky. In addition to contributing to the 9Marks blog, Brian writes regularly on his own blog called Practical Shepherding. Brian is married to Cara, and they have four children. How does an Associate Pastor discern when it is time to leave? Monday’s post brought an interesting question that I get asked regularly that I thought I should address as it is fresh on my mind.  There are many reasons an associate pastor would contemplate leaving their…

• Strategies for Becoming a Post-Program Church

  Bobby Jamieson

  19 Jan 2012 | 3:00 am

  Churches shouldn’t rely wholly on programs to do the work of ministry, which means that a lot of churches need to think about cutting some programs and reworking others. More importantly, program-driven churches should work to cultivate a culture of discipleship. But how? How can you wean a church off of an excessive dependence on programs and move toward a culture of discipleship? How can you slim down your church’s diet of programs without causing a shock to the system? STRATEGIES FOR BECOMING A POST-PROGRAM CHURCH Those are big questions, and sometimes they have high stakes. In…

• Marks of a Real Minister Audio

  Michael McKinley

  17 Jan 2012 | 2:11 pm

  On January 8th, Mark Dever preached at the installation our of church's new associate pastor, Hunter Powell.   Mark's sermon on I Corinthians 4, entitled "The Marks of a Real Minister", was very helpful.  It renewed my zeal for the ministry and it's well worth your time if you could use some encouragement!

• Interview with Thabiti Anyabwile on his new book

  Jonathan Leeman

  16 Jan 2012 | 10:25 pm

  You're in for a treat with Thabiti's Anyabwile's new book, Finding Good Elders and Deacons. Let me give you three reasons. First, it will help you grow in your understanding of what godly maturity looks like in the context of the local church. This really struck me when I read the book for the first time. Elders should exemplify the character qualities that all Christians should grow into, and so Thabiti's meditations on the list of elder qualifications in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 basically provides all of us with a portrait of what Christian maturity looks like. It's a…

• 

  Human3rror

• CHAIRS: How To Understand and Give Respect to Your Husband

  admin

  26 Jan 2012 | 4:56 am

  Some more of my notes and study on the marriage relationship as it relates to the husband. Somewhat easy to remember too! CHAIRS: Conquest – The natural inborn desire of the man is to go out and conquer the challenges of his world – to work and achieve. He will feel you appreciate his desire to work and achieve when: You tell him verbally or in writing that you value his efforts. You express your faith in him related to his chosen field. You listen to his work stories as closely as you expect him to listen to your accounts of what happens in the family. Allow him to dream as you…

• Power Rangers – All Grown Up

  admin

  25 Jan 2012 | 6:09 pm

  LOL. You just finished reading Power Rangers – All Grown Up! and you survived!

• Men, Women, and Sex

  admin

  24 Jan 2012 | 7:57 am

  A few things that I’ve picked up during my certification as a marriage counselor: Men spell intimacy S-E-X. Here are some issues regarding men and sexual intimacy: A husband needs his wife to initiate sex occasionally. A husband often struggles with feelings of inadequacy or failure. A husband gets discouraged when his wife does not express her passion for him. A husband feels as if he’s not important to his wife when she doesn’t take time to make love. A husband becomes concerned when life situations (such as depression, grief, and loss) interfere with his interest in sex.

• Things Don’t Change

  admin

  22 Jan 2012 | 7:17 am

  #LOL I’m pretty sure I know a few people like this. You just finished reading Things Don’t Change! and you survived!

• Dodgeball Accident – Breaking the 10 Commandments

  admin

  20 Jan 2012 | 6:49 am

  LOL. You just finished reading Dodgeball Accident – Breaking the 10 Commandments! and you survived!

• 

  [TerraceCrawford.com]

• This is What Has Made Me Pretty Famous

  19 Jan 2012 | 10:24 am

  I was giving some thought about an upcoming talk I'm preparing to give to students on the subject of Heaven and then I viewed this video online where a guy sings about how he's "looking for a city." This may inspire you like it did me. Ha!My favorite line: "This is what has made me pretty famous." I've been walking around the office all morning quoting that one line over and over again after I do just about anything. RSS Subscribers: there is video [here]

• My Interview with YouthMin.org

  13 Jan 2012 | 10:20 am

  Recently I was interviewed by YouthMin.org about working with teenagers and also about my Coaching Network (that you can be a part of by simply applying [here] -- today is the deadline!) I'll include a couple of questions here that I was asked and then you can go [here] for the rest.[YM] What led you to create the Coaching Network? [Terrace] I feel like God has been nudging me to Coach youth workers for a few years now but I never did it. I've seen a great need in the world of youth ministry for people who are just starting out to have someone to help guide them in building youth ministries…

• I'm Looking for 10 Leaders...

  11 Jan 2012 | 11:11 am

  One of the things that makes great leaders is knowing what your resources are and knowing how to use them. I think that many leaders just don't know what is available to them so they encounter obstacles (more often than not) in their journey when they could have made things easier for them just by knowing the right people, having the right tools, and knowing how to use those tools. I've created what I think is a great resource for youth workers, but unfortunately many people aren't aware of it. Last year I founded the Youth Worker Coaching Network designed to help youth workers who have only…

• 8 Benefits of Joining My Coaching Network

  6 Jan 2012 | 10:24 am

  I've nearly finished my first round of coaching and its been a very rewarding experience. I've had a great time providing help to youth workers who have been in the field for 5 years or less.Perhaps you'd like to join my next group? Let me tell you a bit about it...My coaching network will offer everything you might get from a conference, but it will be a semester long (approximately 6 months). Here are 8 benefits of joining my Coaching Network: 1. I'll be your personal coach and cheerleader for 6 months.2. You'll get practical guidance and personal counsel.3. You'll get a weekly phone call…

• Top 10 Posts of 2011

  3 Jan 2012 | 9:20 am

  I'm really looking forward to sharing with you on the blog this new year. It's been incredible to look back at the last year and see what brought many of you to the site. I thought I would share with you today the Top 10 Posts of 2011 on TerraceCrawford.comTop 10 Posts of 2011 (ranked in order):105 Glimpses into the Future of Youth Ministry9.5 Ways to Avoid Becoming Irrelevant to Teens8. 6 Reasons Young Christians are Leaving Church7.10 Things I Pray for Today's Teenager6Rob Bell on Youth Ministry5.Francis Chan: Erasing Hell [Video]4.Starbucks: An Illustrated Future3.The Discrimination of…

• 

  TheWorshipCommunity.Com - Worship Leader Resources, Articles, Forums

• REVIEW: Reuben Bidez – the Signs of God

  Shannon Lewis

  26 Jan 2012 | 11:38 am

  Reuben Bidez The Signs of God (Independent) In all honesty, you may not be ready for this. Following his big, anthemic, modern rock, corporate worship CD, GENERATION, Reuben – an Atlanta-based worship artist – felt a tug on his soul to do something quite a bit different with this project. Fans of Gungor, take note: though THE SIGNS OF GOD sounds nothing like Gungor, that same stretched feeling you got when first challenged by Gungor’s unorthodox take on worship resides here as well, for many reasons. Reuben explains his heart behind THE SIGNS OF GOD; “It all started when I…

• Worship Songwriting: What is the GQ (God Quotient) of Our Worship Songs?

  Russ Hutto

  25 Jan 2012 | 1:54 pm

  Thanks to Mark Snyder for sharing this great approach with TWC. Not only is it a great practical approach to writing worship song lyrics, it’s also a great way to analyze our Sunday Setlists. Worship songs are an area of vastly differing opinions. Evaluating what works and what doesn’t can be very subjective. One sentiment I hear and read all the time is ‘let’s take the focus off of us, or I, or me, and put it on God, where it belongs.’ In many ways, this is a push back on the effects of a ‘generation me’ culture. But, to figure out why a song leaves this impression is not…

• Review: The Loft Sessions by Bethel Music

  Russ Hutto

  24 Jan 2012 | 10:12 am

  Thanks to Kim Castro and Mat Reames for sharing their thoughts and insights on Bethel Music’s newest release, The Loft Sessions, which releases today. Kim Brian and Jenn Johnson, Jeremy Riddle, and other artists met to create an experimental and authentic worship experience made evident in this latest project, The Loft Sessions. At once moving and original, this work displays the talent and emotion of those wishing to praise the Almighty through music. Worship sessions were recorded in a refurbished loft, and this passionate, driving work shines with creativity. As a burgeoning pianist,…

• The Worship Community Loves YOUR Voice

  Russ Hutto

  23 Jan 2012 | 12:56 pm

  We at The Worship Community would like to extend our continued thanks and appreciation for all of you who continue to be a part of our community. Whether through weekly participation in Sunday Setlists, where people from all over share their experiences, testimonies, struggles, ideas, problems/solutions, and song setlists from their worship gatherings each week… …Or whether over in the TWC forums discussing ‘all things worship’ with brothers and sisters in Christ from around the world… …or if you’re a regular reader of our articles here on the front…

• Sunday Setlists #183

  Russ Hutto

  22 Jan 2012 | 10:15 am

  Share your worship confessionals, recaps, and setlists for the week of: Sunday, January 22, 2012 Welcome to the 183rd consecutive week of “Sunday Setlists”. The purpose of “Sunday Setlists” is to share a recap of your worship services. What songs did you use, what arrangements? What worked really well and what didn’t work as well as you’d like? What issues did you have preparing? What is the sermon series? How about creative elements used in the service? You don’t have to be the pastor or worship leader to participate. We would really love to get…

• 

  Branded With Love

• Broken Down Cars, Dogs Almost Ran Over, And Stop Thinking Someone Else Will- You’re The Someone Else. And People Are Watching

  Jason

  27 Jan 2012 | 9:22 am

  I had just dropped off my girls at school. It’s my day off. All I was thinking was, “My bed is waiting! Ahhhhhhhh!” I turned the corner, and… Traffic. At. A. Stand. Still. Ugh. Don’t these people know my day off is freakin’ important?! Then I saw it. A broken down car with the lights blinking. People flying by her. Not stopping to help. Honestly, I debated it in my head. “Help this person out, or maybe someone else will.” “Wait, I am not that guy. Quit being a selfish bastard jerk.” (my inner dialogue censors itself sometimes) So, I…

• Love > Hate.

  Jason

  23 Jan 2012 | 9:50 am

    Unless you live under a rock, you’ve probably seen the “Why I Hate Religion, But Love Jesus” video circling YouTube (At least 16+ million have and continues to climb). Well, it stirred all kinds of controversy about whether or not it’s okay to hate religion and still love Jesus. Jay Bakker hates religion, Mark Driscoll hates it, Andy Stanley encourages you to lose it, so does R.E.M.  It’s interesting. There are plenty of things done in the name of “religion” that are hurtful. I’ve even said “…it’s not about rules and…

• Don’t Regret Anything. Ever. No Matter What.

  Jason

  12 Jan 2012 | 9:41 am

    Over the past few weeks there has been a flurry of people posting photos like these, or catchy little meme photos with the saying, “Never regret anything, because at one time it was exactly what you wanted.” In junior high I stole things. In the third grade a girl touched me & I her. It was in a bad way, and we knew it. In ’89 I lied to my parents about getting beat up & threw my bike in a ditch so I could get a new one. In high school I used girls & tossed them aside like Post-it Notes. In college I broke the rules because I hated the system. In my early…

• Goodbye 2011, Hello 2012

  Jason

  11 Jan 2012 | 1:55 pm

  Carol Of The Bells from Forefront Church on Vimeo.   I loved our Christmas Eve/Eve Service. It was a great way to wrap up 2011. The year had some amazing things take place… Sending a team to Joplin to help with the clean-up relief. So pumped we were able to be a part of that. Packing an 18 wheeler with supplies and sending it down to Alabama for hurricane relief. The news came out a did a story, it was awesome to see something on the news that positive. You guys rock! Two teams to Vietnam to finish the water system for 600+ people to have clean water and build dorms for kids who…

• Christmas Teaser #2

  Jason

  13 Dec 2011 | 11:58 am

  We’re prepping for our December 23rd service. It’s a Friday Night, 7pm at Ocean Lakes High School. It’s going to be intense! While we’ve been out filming videos for the service, we film little teasers along the way to peak your interest. Here is teaser #2 (We loaded it to YouTube & Vimeo last night, and it’s been blowing up. This is probably due to the fact I fractured 2 ribs at the hands of an angry James elf. Dr’s visit confirmed it yesterday. Merry Christmas!)   Christmas Teaser #2 from Forefront Church on Vimeo.

• 

  LeadingSmart

• What Goes Around Comes Around

  Tim Stevens

  25 Jan 2012 | 7:24 am

  I’m not that old, but I’ve voted in 7 elections. And it seems like there are some constants… In every election, we are told it is the most important election in history. In every election, the candidates tell us they won’t go negative. In every election, the candidates always go negative. In every election, the media tells us the candidates are going more negative than ever before. In every election, there is someone running who is painted as a “crazy” (Ross Perot, Howard Dean, Ron Paul) In every election, we are told the young voters will make the…

• Work Here? Attend Here.

  Tim Stevens

  24 Jan 2012 | 6:50 am

  I remember way back when I was first hired at Granger that Mark Beeson talked about the importance of attending the church where you work. At first I thought he was joking–I had never heard of anyone working at a church where they did not attend. He told me of several situations where that was unfortunately true. I wrongly assumed it was a dying pattern. In fact, the number of churches I’m hearing about who hire staff members to do “jobs” rather than “ministry” is increasing. Recently I learned of a large church that had a senior-level staff member who…

• How About a “Masters-Level” Course on Being an Executive Pastor?

  Tim Stevens

  5 Jan 2012 | 6:55 am

  I’ve said it before and it’s still true today: One of the most enjoyable things I get to do is lead a Coaching Network for Executive Pastors. In a couple of months, I’m going to offer this again. I will be meeting with 12 church leaders for a coaching experience which begins in March and concludes in May. I’m designing it specifically for Executive Pastors (or leaders in a similar role) who want to take their leadership to the next level. I’m not quite sure how to describe it, but here is my best attempt… It will be personal. Highly practical. Intensive.

• Holiday Burn-Out

  Tim Stevens

  19 Dec 2011 | 7:15 am

  Guest Post from Dr. Paul White, co-author of The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace The holiday marathon from mid-November to early January is challenging for most pastors and ministry leaders, and unfortunately, the goal often is just to survive.  The demands from Thanksgiving through New Year’s are intense – time-wise, emotionally, relationally, organizationally and spiritually.  And if the demands of the holidays aren’t managed well, a minister may either blow out (usually with their family) or come out of the other side looking like a cat caught under the hood of a car…

• Dear Satan

  Tim Stevens

  13 Dec 2011 | 7:01 am

  It’s not going to work. I’m on to you. We are on to you. I know you are not omni-present. You can only be in one place at a time. For decades I’ve watched you wreak havoc around the world, but rarely have I felt you in my town, messing with my friends, focused on my church. But it seems like you planted yourself squarely at our doorstep over the past few weeks. It’s almost like Someone said to you, “Consider my servants in Granger–there are many there who follow Me without question. And I am getting ready to do some really big stuff through them.” And…

• 

  Rich Kirkpatrick's Weblog

• Cut-and-Paste Creativity: The Death of Art, Music and Connection in Church Worship

  Rich Kirkpatrick

  23 Jan 2012 | 8:28 pm

  Having traveled a bit and visited many churches this past year, I see a pattern in the modern worship world. In fact, for the past decade I have been in that category as a worship leader. There are twitter feeds sharing set lists of the songs worship leaders choose. People in the pews or theater seats across America experience more of the same on their Sunday morning worship music menu than ever before. This one-size-fits-all thinking might be the death of true creativity. And, as a result it may flatten our ability to connect deeply to our community.  There are guitar sites, Youtube…

• “Why I Hate Religion, But Love Jesus”: Can’t we be FOR something, and not AGAINST something?

  Rich Kirkpatrick

  12 Jan 2012 | 5:20 pm

  Is religion really a bad word? I wrote about that in an article last year. (Why saying “I’m Not Religious” is a Cop Out!)  This video poem, “Why I Hate Religion, But Love Jesus” is powerful, creative and resonates deeply. I applaud the artistry. But, I think there is just something about semantics asking for more thought and discussion, which any good art should allow. I wrote this in June last year: Religion is not cutting or whipping one’s self, living silently in a monastery, singing emotionally in a worship service. It is not the Inquisition, the wars of the Crusades, the…

• A church resource community: copyrightcommunity.com

  Rich Kirkpatrick

  10 Jan 2012 | 2:27 pm

  One of the most important reasons to blog is the community aspect of it. Those of us who work as volunteer and staff leaders in churches, as I have over the years, have places to go to discuss, learn and grow. This week I am featured in three blog posts on copyrightcommunity.com where I write a bit about copyrights from the perspective of church leaders. Go and check out the first one dealing with ethics of copyrights in the church: View from Both Sides of the Table.

• Jesus Makes Good Wine, Do We?

  Rich Kirkpatrick

  6 Jan 2012 | 10:40 am

  A wedding planner in Cana some 2,000 years ago pretty much had a plan to keep in budget. Serve the good wine first, then when people have are too happy to notice, serve something less. Jesus attended this wedding, but decided to turn a significant amount of water into wine. The wedding planner said this about Jesus making good wine, “Everyone serves the good wine first, and when people have drunk freely, then the poor wine. But you have kept the good wine until now.” (John 2:11, ESV) Jesus is the kind of man who wants quality, even when no one will notice. One anecdote about the…

• Song Lyrics: Drink The Divine

  Rich Kirkpatrick

  5 Jan 2012 | 10:36 pm

  I am posting the lyrics of the song that inspired the “DRINK THE DIVINE” EP worship project. Sunday night the funding campaign ends. If I had about a dozen more contributors, I will be able to cross the threshold.  Please consider pledging. Supporting gets you a perk, allows the project to complete and supports charity (Doma International). Drink The Divine by Rich Kirkpatrick I thirst in the dessert no food to sustain I pray for revival a mountain top change For this journey to lead me, from valley to hill To count all as lost and eat my soul’s fill My soul’s fill Drink the…

• 

  Ministry Best Practices

• Your Email Year-In-Review

  Bill Reichart

  14 Jan 2012 | 7:18 am

  Curious to know your email behavior and usage?  How much email did you have to process last year?  Who were your biggest senders?  Who did you communicate with the most? This free analysis from ToutApp is a great resource which will give you an overview of how you are using your email.  Check out mine and HERE and to get your free report as well.

• Be Careful Who You Root For

  Bill Reichart

  13 Jan 2012 | 8:21 am

  Church signs try to get too cute for their own good! (courtesy of Ed Stetzer)

• 10 Thoughts About Leadership

  Bill Reichart

  10 Jan 2012 | 12:19 pm

   - Guest Post By Jon Gordon At a time when the world is thinking a lot about leadership I believe it’s a great opportunity for each one of us to think about what leadership means to us. Below I’ve shared some of my thoughts on leadership from my latest book Soup and whether you are a leader of a business, team, hospital, sports team, classroom, church or home, I hope you’ll think about what principles and ideas guide you as a leader and feel free to share them on our blog here or Facebook page. 1. People follow the leader first and the leader’s vision second – It doesn’t…

• What Happened To Downtime?

  Bill Reichart

  4 Jan 2012 | 1:26 pm

  From the introduction: Interruption-free space is sacred. Yet, in the digital era we live in, we are losing hold of the few sacred spaces that remain untouched by email, the internet, people, and other forms of distraction. Our cars now have mobile phone integration and a thousand satellite radio stations. When walking from one place to another, we have our devices streaming data from dozens of sources. Even at our bedside, we now have our iPads with heaps of digital apps and the world's information at our fingertips. Read the whole of Scott Belsky's article and his five solutions. But take…

• Get InSync With Your Files

  Bill Reichart

  3 Jan 2012 | 12:28 pm

  I love it when I see easy, cheap and practical productivity tools.  These kinds of tools are such an asset to non-profits, ministries and churches.  That is why I have been such a fan of apps such as Dropbox.  But now there is something  new that has come along, very much like Dropbox, but lives within your Google Docs - called Insync. I am a google apps fanatic and practically live in them, especially Gdocs - so to be able to sync, store and share files within that environment is very compelling to me.  Since it rides along the google app, the fees/costs are…

• 

  Klampert

• Are you an ark builder or a wood gatherer?

  Joel Klampert

  26 Jan 2012 | 1:00 pm

  The year was 1995. I was off to VA to train and then work with YWAM. We had so many sessions on prayer and worship and the passing on of the “mantle” to other leaders. It was an amazing time. Eventually I was off with a small team to Kiev, Ukraine, but before I went I had a good 3 months in VA. One day we had invited a guest speaker and prophet to come to the missions school to pray over us. Prophets are scary people because you never know what they will say and they don’t seem to have a filter. This man didn’t trudge up a deep rooted sin or an unrepentant bitterness,…

• Your daughter and the VAMPIRES that love them

  Joel Klampert

  18 Nov 2011 | 6:20 am

  It is not a secret that I have been reading about the occult and all things spiritual since I could read pretty much. I have read most of the books on “spirits”, christian and pagan and tried over the years to learn as much as I could about the topic. I have seen people possessed by demons and I have spoken to demons through a person. I have been in places that were “haunted” and know the reality of what is going on behind the spiritual curtain… In the 90′s I got into the vampire books from Anne Rice. I read them and loved them. Somewhere within the series…

• Ascent from Darkness by Michael Leehan Book Review

  Joel Klampert

  17 Nov 2011 | 6:05 am

  Ascent from Darkness How Satan’s Soldier Became God’s Warrior By:Michael Leehan I recently got this book from the Blogging for Books program with Thomas Nelson. I did not know what to expect, but judging from it’s description I had I feeling I would be in for a wild ride. Crazy enough the day I received the book I went to the ER for a false alarm and had to sit in a bed with an IV for almost 6 hours. That is where I started the book. The next morning I woke up and neglected the things I needed to do and had it finished in 2 more hours. I could not put this book down. I have…

• John Mark McMillan – Economy CD Review

  Joel Klampert

  4 Nov 2011 | 11:51 am

  John Mark Mcmillan Economy Some might say that this is John’s second CD and followup to the Medicine. Well technically YOU ARE WRONG because he had already released music before he go signed to Integrity. John has been in the music scene for quite a while now and has carved his way into the hearts of millions through people covering his songs. Now that those covers have paved the way for him to get in front of people as well I was worried his sound might get watered down. Worried it might get stuck in the box I like to call “that sound’ with over processed and over produced…

• Plan B by Pete Wilson Book Review

  Joel Klampert

  3 Nov 2011 | 12:35 pm

  Plan B By: Pete Wilson What Do You Do When God Doesn’t Show Up the Way You Thought He Would?… Where do I even begin with this book. It showed up in my mailbox at just the perfect time when I was questioning what in the world God was doing. As a matter of fact I have been in that state a lot the last few years. This book addresses frustration with God, uncertainty, fear, loss, joy and followed up with the Hope of god’s promises. I love this book and can’t say enough about it. It got me to think out of the box and whenever I am thinking inwardly I always rethink about what I…

• 

  BrianAyers.net

• Our Own War Stories

  Brian Ayers

  24 Jan 2012 | 5:25 am

  Now these are the nations that the Lord left, to test Israel by them, that is, all in Israel who had not experienced all the wars in Canaan. It was only in order that the generations of the people of Israel might know war, to teach war to those who had not known it before. (Judges 3:1, 2 ESV) When Israel entered Canaan, God immediately gave them victory over armies and nations that were much larger and much more powerful than them. It was undeniable that God was with them, and the people all knew it. But He did not allow them to go to war against every nation; He allowed some battles to…

• When you’ve made mistakes

  Brian Ayers

  19 Jan 2012 | 8:55 am

  "When you realize you’ve made a mistake, “own it” with those involved as soon as possible. Delaying only tempts you to put it off and rationalize why it’s not that big of a deal to share. If your teammates don’t see you owning your mistakes when they come to light, they will question your credibility—and rightly so.” - Nathan Rouse

• Judah Smith’s 8 Steps to Delivering a Message

  Brian Ayers

  18 Jan 2012 | 9:06 am

  I was looking back over some notes I took last year at the C3 Conference in Grapevine, Texas, and found some pretty cool stuff I’d forgotten about.  The notes below came from a Q&A session where Pastor Judah Smith was asked about how he goes about preparing to speak to a group of people. Here are Pastor Judah’s 8 steps to delivering a message: 1. Greeting: Honor the audience, make a good first impression. 2. Read the Bible: Pastor Judah reads the bible story word for word to the crowd. He says no matter who is there or how the message is received, at least the Word was…

• Why PowerPoint Stinks

  Brian Ayers

  17 Jan 2012 | 3:09 pm

• Jobs of the Future

  Brian Ayers

  17 Jan 2012 | 9:12 am

  We all know that we’re living in a fast & ever-changing environment… this reality is becoming more and more apparent in the current job market. The 9-5 desk jobs, the life-long factory jobs with a pension at the end, the job waiting for you when you get a degree, all seem to be disappearing. The Institute for the Future, as part of its decade-long Future of Work project, has identified 10 skills needed for the jobs of the future: Sensemaking Novel and Adaptive Thinking Transdisciplinarity Social Intelligence Computational Thinking New Media Literacy Design Mindset Cross…

• 

  Shaun In The City

• We are now more than halfway there & 3 cool bits of news!

  ShaunKing

  23 Jan 2012 | 10:50 am

  Hey everybody! With 25 days, we are now more than halfway to our final goal in our KickStarter campaign to BUILD HOPE!!!  On this past Friday we crossed $58,000!  We just received our 2nd $10,000 matching gift in the mail and when that is added to our total today or tomorrow it will put us @ $68,000! Crossing the 50% mark has been a real tipping point in my mind.  I’m not saying it will be easy from here, but I think we have proven that people love the idea of HopeMob and are willing to stand behind it in a major way. If you have not yet made a pledge @ HopeMob.com, we need you to…

• We ARE Joe Paterno: Why I Think His Greatness Should Outshine His Flaws

  ShaunKing

  22 Jan 2012 | 1:58 pm

  Joe Paterno died this morning. For 50 years, he was a god of college football.  He may be the best college football coach of all time.   While coach, he not only won more games than anybody, but his Penn State team produced 250 NFL players, went undefeated 5 times, finished in the top 25 over 35 times, won 2 national championships… all while producing a score of academic all Americans and having one of the highest graduation rates of any football programs in the country – certainly better than any program that was actually good at football. In this way, NONE of us are like Joe…

• Thank You!

  ShaunKing

  19 Jan 2012 | 4:10 pm

  Thank you! So far 424 of my friends have pledged just about $50,000 in our revolutionary KickStarter campaign to BUILD HOPE all over the world! I’m saying thank you in advance because I really need you to join them!  We estimate that it will take at least 1,000 people to hit our goal and we have just 29 days left to do it.  The KickStarter rules state that if we don’t hit our goal, we don’t get anything at all. If that happens, I’ll sink into a deep depression so you are pretty much going to save my life by making a pledge today :-)  If you need more info, I am…

• Some GREAT News about Our KickStarter Campaign!

  ShaunKing

  17 Jan 2012 | 7:28 pm

  Hey Everybody! Wanted to share some really cool news! So far 407 people have helped us cross $38,000 in pledges. Later today we will receive $10,000 in matching funds from the great people @ CSG!  That will put us up to $48,000 w/ 31 days to go! We just crossed 400 backers!  I love it! We have people that have given from $1-$10,000!  We think we will need at least 1,000 backers to hit our goal and thanks to you we are on our way there! In the next day or so my friends @ Cause Media Group are going to announce another $10,000 matching grant!  How awesome is that?? We will need to raise…

• Dr. King, Morehouse, Poor People, Fighting Evil, HopeMob!

  ShaunKing

  16 Jan 2012 | 11:06 am

  (this post has not been edited for errors and was written from my iphone.) No man or woman outside of Jesus has had a bigger impact & influence on me than Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I believe he is the greatest person America has ever produced. Ever. Nobody has ever been more brilliant, more loving, more hopeful under the ugliest pressure imaginable in our country than him. He stood up for the best traits in all of us. He fought courageously against evil and would be willing to stare it in its face over and over again. Having gone to undergrad at his alma mater, Morehouse College, we…

• 

  Christian Personal Finance

• How To Check Your Credit Report for Free – GS20

  Bob

  27 Jan 2012 | 7:25 am

  Video Intro Can't see the video in your RSS reader or email? Click Here! If you haven’t checked your credit report in a while, lets do it today. While there are many sites that will charge you to check it, you can get a copy of your report from the big 3 credit reporting agencies for free by getting it from AnnualCreditReport.com Even if you don’t plan on buying a house any time soon, I recommend checking your report for errors now. I waited until just a couple months before purchasing a house and I found out the hard way that getting credit report errors removed can be very time…

• 24 Legitimate Home-Based Business Ideas & Opportunities – GS19

  Bob

  26 Jan 2012 | 7:20 am

  If you are like many, the thought of starting a home-based business has probably crossed your mind at some point. With the economy being what it is, layoffs all around us, and an increasing desire for many to escape the rat race and work from home, many are trying to start a home-based business. Working from home not only offers independence and freedom but there are also some great home-based business tax deductions as well. Video Intro Can't see the video in your RSS reader or email? Click Here! As I sit and write this, I am reminded of the years I spent in jobs that I didn’t like and…

• Making Sacrifices to Get Out of Debt – GS18

  Bob

  25 Jan 2012 | 7:20 am

  Video Intro Can't see the video in your RSS reader or email? Click Here! This one is where the rubber meets the road. This is where we see how bad you want to be out of debt. The sacrifice is only temporary! The most important thing to remember as you are reading this is that it is ONLY TEMPORARY. By making a sacrifice you are not condemning yourself to that for the rest of your life. You just need to make up for all the overspending that has taken place in the past If you have done some of the things mentioned in the last few articles, you are on a better financial footing than you were.

• How Cars Affect your Financial Freedom – GS17

  Bob

  24 Jan 2012 | 8:05 am

  I had a revelation about cars that has caused me to not really care what mine looks like. It’s not that I don’t want a really fast car, it is just that there is something I want a bit more: financial freedom. Video Intro Can't see the video in your RSS reader or email? Click Here! Is any car worth your financial freedom? The thing I have noticed is that so many people give up financial freedom for their whole lives solely because of the decisions they make with their cars. I know it sounds like a bold statement, but I think it is frightening how true it is. For most people, a car…

• Protect Your Family: The Importance of Life Insurance – GS16

  Bob

  23 Jan 2012 | 8:09 am

  If you don’t have life insurance and you have a family that you support, today is your day. Part of preparation is for our benefit and part of it is for the benefit of our loved ones. In this case you and I won’t have any tangible benefit from purchasing life insurance, but the peace of knowing that our loved ones will have a nice financial buffer is pretty nice. Video Intro Can't see the video in your RSS reader or email? Click Here! Just like the FLOP we mentioned the other day, the hope is that you will never need to use this. But if that day were ever to come, there would be…

• 

  JakeBouma.com

• Who Needs Apologetics?

  Jake

  24 Jan 2012 | 9:43 am

  The genesis of this post comes from this short post on Google+, in which I said (rather snarkily, I admit): If by "Golden Era of Apologetics" [Lee Strobel] means "An Era When Apologetics Will Continue Its Decline into Utter Irrelevance," I'm totally on board. I was responding to an article/interview in The Christian Post titled Lee Strobel: We're on Cusp of Golden Era of Apologetics. You may recognize Strobel's name — he's the author of series of apologetics-oriented books: The Case for Christ, The Case for Faith, The Case for A Creator, et al. They're wildly popular books — several of…

• “Evangelism in the Dark” published in Immerse Journal

  Jake

  10 Jan 2012 | 2:22 pm

  The latest issue of Immerse Journal, a "journal of faith, life and youth ministry," features an article I wrote titled "Evangelism in the Dark." It begins with these words: It wasn’t only that I generally felt like a failure at it, as if I weren’t zealous enough to convert everyone around me or charismatic enough to make the good news seem irresistible; I have been haunted by the suspicion that evangelism itself has largely missed the mark. In the article, I use the work of theologian Douglas John Hall (whom none other than Andy Root turned me on to) to make the case for an evangelism…

• Introducing: Recommended Reads

  Jake

  5 Jan 2012 | 4:45 pm

  Next Tuesday, January 10, my friend Erik and I are launching a new e-newsletter called Recommended Reads: Recommended Reads is a twice-monthly email that contains links to five articles you may have missed. We scour the depths of the web and hand-pick articles that spotlight creative voices with unique perspectives on religion, culture, and ministry. Our hope is that the newsletter serves as a non-invasive (only two times a month) way of guiding people to great content from around the web. That's it. Each email will contain links to and brief descriptions of five articles and/or blog posts,…

• Books I read in 2011

  Jake

  29 Dec 2011 | 4:19 pm

  I admittedly don't blog as frequently as I used to, but I do enjoy putting together the annual "Books I read" post. You'll notice that in the past three years this post has become much lengthier and way more self-indulgent. I'm okay with that. If you are, too, presented below is a full list of the books I read in 2011 as well as my "favorites" from several categories. (Disclaimer: All book links in this post are Amazon affiliate links). Previously: 2010, 2009. Favorite Fiction Book A tie between The Pale King by David Foster Wallace and Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell. For many reasons, The…

• Advent with Bonhoeffer

  Jake

  27 Nov 2011 | 7:18 pm

  In 2009 I wrote a series of blog posts called Advent Explorations both as a personal study of the first season of the liturgical calendar and as a way of sharing what I was learning.1 I won't be doing that again this year; instead, I have something else in mind. About a week ago, I received a lovely surprise in my mailbox at work. One of the parishioners who knows of my love for all things Bonhoeffer (and who is herself a Bonhoeffer enthusiast) left a copy of the book God Is in the Manger: Reflections on Advent and Christmas, an Advent devotional comprised of material compiled from…

• 

  brent(inWorship)

• Happy New Year!  I cannot believe it is 2012. And last year at...

  2 Jan 2012 | 12:14 pm

  Happy New Year!  I cannot believe it is 2012. And last year at this time I was sitting in an emergency room while they shocked my heart because I was in A-Fib. It has been one crazy year! It has been an amazing journey to Tennessee. And I am filled with gratitude to be here and to be serving with Cross Point.  Yesterday was an opportunity at Cross Point, to share my heart for 2012. All the campus Pastors had a chance to share at each of our campuses. What an awesome way to start the year together. Looking to our future as a church and as a campus and committing to pray together. It has…

• Black Friday. Drama...

  25 Nov 2011 | 12:35 pm

  I dont blog often, but felt I wanted to speak to this… Black Friday. The day after Thanksgiving day. We have just spent a day of fellowship, family, friends and a ton of food. We’ve chosen to take a day specifically to say… we are grateful. Then Friday comes and the world falls apart. I know this sounds dramatic, but what I am seeing in the social media world is drama. Last month at Cross Point, we spent some time challenging ourselves to focus on gratitude. I heard amazing, life changing stories from so many people that chose to spend last month focusing what is good in life. The…

• I adore this woman… Happy birthday beautiful!

  14 Nov 2011 | 12:48 pm

  I adore this woman… Happy birthday beautiful!

• This was an awesome weekend at Cross Point! Over the last couple...

  5 Sep 2011 | 8:23 pm

  This was an awesome weekend at Cross Point! Over the last couple weeks, we have spent time in a series called “Together We Will”. It was an opportunity to go through the vision statement of Cross Point and remind ourselves of who we are as a church community. Our vision at Cross Point is to be a people who are… Radically devoted to ChristIrrevocably committed to each other  Relentlessly dedicated to reaching the lost At Cross Point we value Discipleship, Community and Evangelism. We Pursue God, each other and we serve! If you’d like to listen to the 3 Part series, you can head over…

• 20 Years With My Best Friend!

  18 Aug 2011 | 2:00 am

  Today, August 18th,  I celebrate 20 years with my best friend! Tammy, I am so grateful to you. For being the amazing woman you are. Strong. Confident. Gentle. Patient. Full of grace. And drop dead gorgeous :) I realized something this year. I know I often say the opposite, but… i DO deserve you. You are the perfect compliment to who I am. Your strengths and passions match so well with my weaknesses and dreams. I get to do life better, because Im doing it with you. We are in transition this year. A crazy move to tennessee! There are no special dinners, or fancy cards, or surprise vacations.

• 

  Echo Hub » Posts

• Videos of the Week — 1.27.12

  Scott McClellan

  27 Jan 2012 | 2:21 pm

  It’s Friday, and that means this is another edition of Videos of the Week. First up, check out this response to a video we shared two weeks ago about hating religion but loving Jesus: (HT Tim Schraeder) And speaking of the Church, here’s a challenging look at we’re called to do: The team at Elevation Church knows how to put together a recap video: The team at Granger Community Church knows how to put together a “this is who we are” video: (HT Kevin Hendricks/The Table) And finally, the great Dan Stevers knows how to put together a video on a … sensitive…

• Get Small: Thoughts on Path

  Scott McClellan

  26 Jan 2012 | 3:31 pm

  I’ll never forget the first time I saw one of those well-connected tech bloggers complain about Facebook’s 5,000-friend limit. Like the rest of us, this blogger wanted his numbers to go up. Unique visitors, comments, Facebook Likes, Twitter followers, sales, attendance, giving — we all want to get bigger. Some of us are obsessed with getting bigger to the extent that growth, rather than the work itself, becomes our main focus. Some of us are so fixated on growth that we equate flat growth on a chart with a flatline on an EKG. That’s why, in a world where the race is on to post bigger…

• A January Thank You Note

  Scott McClellan

  26 Jan 2012 | 11:25 am

  As January draws to a close, I need to say thank you. First, to our readers — you guys are why we do this. You’ve been visiting the site, participating in some lively conversations, sharing your favorite posts on Facebook and Twitter, browsing our Store, grabbing your advance tickets for Echo 2012, and giving us great feedback. Thanks for all of that, and thanks for the work you do. Next, to our sponsors — we couldn’t do this without you. Not only do you serve the Church with the work you do everyday, but you also support the conversation that takes place here on Echo Hub. We’re…

• Easter, Story, and UNTITLED: a Q&A with Blaine Hogan

  Scott McClellan

  25 Jan 2012 | 1:31 pm

  As I mentioned yesterday, I had the opportunity to talk with Blaine Hogan about a few things related to his work as the Creative Director at Willow Creek Community Church and his book, UNTITLED: Thoughts on the Creative Process. In our conversation, Blaine shares a little bit about what he’s working on, what he does and doesn’t think about when creating an experience, and what exactly he set out to accomplish with UNTITLED. Enjoy: Be sure to keep up with Blaine on his blog and follow him on Twitter. Also, grab UNTITLED on Amazon or wherever you get your ebooks, and check the…

• Choose Stories Over Moments

  Jenni Wright

  25 Jan 2012 | 10:19 am

  As anyone who has ever visited YouTube can tell, there are a lot of funny videos online. You could easily choose one of your favorite viral videos and show it at your church this Sunday — people will laugh and you will have created a funny moment. But what if you aimed for something deeper? What if you tried to cultivate a story? You could choose a funny (and on-topic) video by the Skit Guys or our own Johnny & Chachi that breaks the ice before you introduce a tough conversation topic. You could choose a funny (and on-topic) video that cuts the tension a little bit before you ask your…

• 

  1000churches - Kingdom Ministry On The Net - Bishop James I Feel God Brown

• Christian Leadership: Judge: Minister Violated the Law By Refusing Same Sex Ceremony

  14 Jan 2012 | 4:15 am

  TRENTON, N.J. — A New Jersey judge ruled Thursday that a church group violated the state's discrimination laws when it...

• Christian Leadership: Satan Cheers Graham, Osteen, Starr for Not Telling the Truth About Mormonism

  9 Jan 2012 | 9:02 am

  ST PETERSBURG, Fla., Jan. 9, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ -- Bill Keller, the world's leading Internet Evangelist and the founder of...

• Christian Living: 'Heartbreaking' Survey: Group Sex Occurring Among Teens

  21 Dec 2011 | 10:14 am

  Author Teresa Tomeo notes porn's role in consensual and coerced behavior SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 21, 2011 /Christian Newswire/ -- A study led by a...

• Christian Living: Why are Christians Following a Cult Member Named Glenn Beck?

  12 Dec 2011 | 7:33 am

  ST PETERSBURG, Fl.,/Christian Newswire/ -- Bill Keller, the world's leading Internet Evangelist and the founder of LivePrayer.com, with over 2.4...

• Church Security Conference Targets Creating Cohesive Plans

  8 Jul 2009 | 2:37 pm

  Church Security Conference Targets Creating Cohesive Plans The National Organization of Church Security Safety Management...

• 

  Solar Crash... Where heaven and earth collide.

• Education that matters

  Lon

  24 Jan 2012 | 10:25 pm

  I just saw this short documentary “Children Full of Life”, about a teacher, Toshiro Kanamori, and his fourth-grade class northwest of Tokyo. My wife is a teacher and I have massive respect for educators who are doing their job, but I have always found something stifling within our education system in the west. Volumes can be learned from this video about character building, authority, compassion and community development that’s palpable. Your thoughts?

• Parting Words

  Lon

  20 Jan 2012 | 6:45 am

  This past weekend I was commissioned out of Mosaic (the community of faith I’ve been leading the past four years) and had the opportunity to share a parting message. Last words are often said too late, or in haste, so I thought I’d do something I’ve never done in my years of speaking, I actually scripted it out. I wrote it out in letter-form to hopefully be concise without forgetting anything, although I doubt parting words can ever be complete. Here it is below, or you can also download it as a pdf To my brothers and sisters, friends, fellow seekers and sojourners What a…

• Birds

  Lon

  17 Jan 2012 | 2:41 pm

  image via shatterboxx It’s a profound thing to come to the realization that you don’t have to be where you are. Getting to where you want to be may be a completely separate journey, but if you don’t allow yourself to dream of distant places, that’s all they’ll ever be. You’re freer than you think. Note – distant places may cost you everything – which is why so few of us will even dare to entertain the thought.

• The year that past

  Lon

  4 Jan 2012 | 12:27 pm

  My memory is dismal so it’s always important for me to reflect and write. Life is short, but it can be incredibly broad. Some snippets of 2011: Family rocked. We celebrated our eighth astonishing year of marriage and are raising two wonder-filled daughters. My wife kicked it into high gear doing double duty as a teacher and photographer Took over the house I was raised in, and all the work that comes along with it. Worked at leading our faith community through transitions – new location, sudden death of a friend and leader, conflicts and daring new directions Incorporated a…

• Fully human

  Lon

  5 Dec 2011 | 8:59 am

  I wrote in the past on ‘what if Christians were human‘ – I love Marlon Hall’s take in the video on being human and imagination and what gives him hope today.

• 

  My World

• Links of the Week

  Josh

  27 Jan 2012 | 5:00 pm

  Letters to a young pastor. I’m reading this book right now and it is a great book for young pastors, tons of wisdom. Phil Cooke on the secret to great teams. Porn blamed for children’s sexual behavior. Dave Ferguson on What stats a church should count. Russell Moore answers “Should I marry a man addicted to porn?“ Start – Stop – Continue. Great advice for pastors and leaders. Teens & porn: stats you need to know. Dave Kraft on The importance of picking the right people for the right teams. Forbes on Girls for Sale! Changing the Conversation on Exploited…

• Why I Preach Like I Do Part 3

  Josh

  27 Jan 2012 | 1:05 pm

  I’ve been talking this week about how we preach at Revolution. You can read part 1 and part 2 in this series if you missed them. One of the things that many pastors fail to do when it comes to their preaching is to plan well. I have talked to many pastors on a Tuesday or Wednesday, even Thursday and they have no idea what they are preaching on this weekend. I remember meeting with one church planter who told me, “I told my wife this morning, I have to think about what I’m preaching on for the next 2 weeks because Josh is going to ask me today.” I remember a mentor…

• Sex, Marriage & Fairytales

  Josh

  27 Jan 2012 | 7:52 am

  By now you’ve probably heard of or seen Why I Hate Religion, but Love Jesus, a spoken word video from Jefferson Bethke. Here’s a new one inspired by the book Real Marriage.  Filed under: marriage, video Tagged: disney, fairytales, jefferson bethke, mark driscoll, marriage, real marriage, sex, why i hate religion but love Jesus

• Why I Preach Like I Do Part 2

  Josh

  26 Jan 2012 | 4:48 pm

  Yesterday, I talked about some things that guide the preaching at Revolution. Today I want to unpack the second thing that drives our preaching. We preach for life transformation, not knowledge transference. I realize if you are a pastor, you would say this is why you preach. But often our sermons say the opposite. In listening to a lot of sermons online, it seems like the goal for pastors is to either show how smart they are or how smart they can make their churches. In my opinion, one of the most crucial steps in sermon prep is editing, choosing what you will not share. This is difficult…

• This Weekend @ Revolution Church: When Life Doesn’t Go as Planned

  Josh

  26 Jan 2012 | 8:07 am

  It is such an exciting time at Revolution Church right now. We had our highest non-holiday attendance this past weekend. We continue to see more and more people take a step of faith and being a relationship with Jesus. So much so, that we are having a baptism on February 11th. If you’d like more information or would like to get baptized, please email Ciara Hull. There will be a baptism class on February 4th after the second service for those who are interested in getting baptized. We launched our 8th missional community this past weekend. I’m really excited about this MC because…

• 

  The Resurgence

• 4 Quick Questions about Studying the Bible

  Justin Holcomb

  28 Jan 2012 | 2:00 am

      Bible Study Magazine: What is your personal Bible study method? Justin Holcomb: I prefer to go through the books consecutively, which helps me focus on the message of each book. Reading book by book helps me understand how the text fits together. This way, I’m able to follow the Bible’s themes and ideas from beginning to end. I also don’t want to overlook details. Reading one book at a time helps me get into the texture of each passage and helps me locate themes that repeat.   BSM: What is your approach to reading the Bible? JH: I think the big idea is:…

• Sex, Marriage, & Fairytales

  Resurgence

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:00 pm

  We posted a video from Jeff Bethke a couple weeks ago, and we wanted to follow up with this one as he addresses many of the ideas behind Pastor Mark and Grace Driscoll's book, Real Marriage. Here's the inspiration behind this Spoken Word.          For more on marriage check out Real Marriage by Pastor Mark and Grace along with the Real Marriage Tour          

• Owning vs. Renting Your Community

  Brad House

  26 Jan 2012 | 2:00 pm

  "It’s a rental." It was a perfect day for the beach, and my new bride and I had the top down in a fun but gutless Mustang. We had left the main track miles ago and were tearing down a dirt road riddled with potholes. My faith in the directions our host had given us was waning, but I was still having a good time. There was a sign saying something about four-wheel drive a few clicks back, but I didn’t bother getting the details. My wife began to get nervous about our adventure and asked if we should be taking a Mustang on a road like this. Without hesitation, I uttered those three…

• How the Trinity Relates to Marriage

  Bruce Ware

  26 Jan 2012 | 2:00 am

  Three persons in one God may seem like a metaphysical head-scratcher, but far from being an esoteric theological concept, the relationship between Father, Son, and Holy Spirit has numerous implications to daily life since we are each made in God's image. This lecture by Southern Seminary professor Dr. Bruce Ware, given at Mars Hill West Seattle, looks at how the Trinity applies to marriage specifically.         For more on marriage, check out Pastor Mark's and Grace Driscoll latest book Real Marriage          

• Naturalism, Knowledge, and History

  Justin Holcomb

  25 Jan 2012 | 2:00 pm

  Naturalism, the philosophical worldview that everything arises from nature and nothing exists beyond it, meaning there’s no such thing as the spiritual realm.  However, this view ultimately leaves one with no justification for trusting one’s own rational faculties, and in so doing, erodes its own credentials. Ronald Nash argues that Naturalism cannot support the common assumption that human rationality corresponds to the objective world:   Naturalism gives us no reason at all to suppose that our reasoning is valid. Only conscious minds can have plans or purposes, so…

• 

  Less Clutter. Less Noise.

• If I asked you to describe your job with one visual, what would it be?

  Kem

  27 Jan 2012 | 12:09 pm

  I had a special guest in the office on Monday. Emily, an eighth grader, shadowed my goings on for a full work day as part of a Career Day assignment for school. She was all in–going to meetings, listening to phone calls, observing emails, catching hallway conversations, going out to lunch with the gang, etc. She showed up more prepared than most adults and kept me on my toes–asking questions about the why behind the what, sharing unique perspectives and jumping in wherever she could add value. Several of my teammates thought she was in college. At the end of the day, she ran me…

• Economics for humans…what we don’t measure and why it’s a problem.

  Kem

  24 Jan 2012 | 8:59 am

  I listened to an HBR Ideacast this AM that had an encouraging perspective from an unlikely source. An economist was advocating that there is more to life than a growing GDP. Here’s a few notes I jotted down. If I asked you what a good life consists of, your answer would be about more than money & stuff. It would be about a life rich in relationships (social capital), accomplishment (organizational capital), meaning, fulfillment and passion (emotional capital)—all of those things add up to a meaningful life. Economics as we know it and live it doesn’t really capture this…

• I got to be on the world’s only user-antagonistic podcast…

  Kem

  20 Jan 2012 | 1:53 pm

  Thanks Anthony, Heath & Matthew… I could do this every week.

• Communications coaching group starts in March, 4 spots left…

  Kem

  5 Jan 2012 | 12:38 pm

  Our Fall 2011 Communications Coaching Network is meeting for the last time in December. It’s been a great learning experience bringing these leaders together from churches in Mexico, Iowa, California, Virginia, Illinois, Tennessee, Florida, Kansas and Indiana. Next month, they’ll join the alumni network–a ongoing channel for resources and support. While one season comes to an end, a new one is beginning. The Spring 2012 Communications Coaching Network starts in March. There are only 12 10 4 spots left and the deadline for application is February 1. Wondering if a coaching…

• Ever seen truth in a pie chart?

  Kem

  20 Dec 2011 | 11:00 am

  (Jim LePage Art & Design) It’s been a tough season recently–one of heartbreak, pressure, uncertainty, disappointment and a little criticism. Despite the circumstances, my foundation is sure and I’m filled with confidence, hope, vision, faith in God and gratitude for my church family. But, because of the circumstances I’ve also been looping the track of grief–angry, sad, depressed. So, yeah. It’s both. I’m jumping back and forth between two extremes–joy and tears. I’m thankful for people in my life who keep reminding me it’s ok…

• 

  ChurchCrunch

• The Problem with Patents [Infographic]

  Eric Dye

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:00 pm

  In today’s tech battles, one of the prime weapons used between competing companies is patents. Patents were originally created to promote technology, whereas now, it used for high priced lawsuits and “tech-industry shakedowns” that can kill an upstart before it can even gain any footing. Here’s a sharp look at the problem with today’s patent system: [Click for Larger View] Thoughts? [via FrugalDad] You just finished reading "The Problem with Patents [Infographic]" on ChurchMag! Feel free to comment on it! We use the Standard Theme for our blog platform!

• Stay Consistent from Beginning to End

  Eric Dye

  27 Jan 2012 | 4:00 pm

  Inspiring words creatively penned. Take a closer look: A great piece by the PupilPeople. I like it! You just finished reading "Stay Consistent from Beginning to End" on ChurchMag! Feel free to comment on it! We use the Standard Theme for our blog platform!

• #SOTU On Twitter [Infographic]

  Jeremy Smith

  27 Jan 2012 | 3:00 pm

  The State of the Union address was given Tuesday night by President Obama. Twitter did a very clever marketing and research tactic. They issued five specific hashtags to track during the speech to see the reaction of tweets. The five hashtags were: #Education #Energy #Fairness #Jobs #Manufacturing Of these five, #Education was the most tweeted and #Manufacturing was the least. Here is an infographic about the tweets in regards to the President’s speech. [Click for Larger] Did you tweet during the speech? If so, what did you think? [via Mashable | Image via jmtimages] You just finished…

• How to REALLY Stop Online Piracy & Make a Crap Load of Money Doing It

  Eric Dye

  27 Jan 2012 | 1:00 pm

  If you’ve never heard of Steam, it’s a PC/Mac gaming portal (like an iTunes App Store) that gives its users instant access to over 1,100 games that can be purchased, downloaded and played from any computer. There is also a community you can engage in, chat with friends while gaming, get automatic game updates and best of all, enjoy Steam-only special offers that included low prices and free-play weekends. With a soon to be released mobile app, users will be able to purchase new game releases and special offers straight from their iPhone or Android, something that previously…

• Clean Up Your Apps Permissions in Only Two Minutes

  Eric Dye

  27 Jan 2012 | 11:00 am

  Last week, my wife asked me about one of my tweets. This normally isn’t a big deal, since it’s certainly not the first time she’s asked me about one of my tweets. What made this situation unique, was the fact that I hadn’t actually penned the tweet myself. I was happy to find it wasn’t SPAM. No one wants to “be that guy,” but I still wasn’t comfortable with tweets going out that were not actually mine. Why did it happen? I had given permission on my Twitter account to an online app a number of months ago. I promptly revoked the permission and…

• 

  Brian Barela's Blog: Catalyze Change

• Charlene Li Quotes from Willow Creek Webinar

  Brian Barela

  27 Jan 2012 | 1:24 pm

  Willow Creek hosted a webinar with Charlene Li, author of Groundswell and Open Leadership on how church leaders can use social media more effectively. Li shared profound insight into the power of social media: “If your voice is absent (from social media), then (it communicates to those who are) that this is not a relationship worth having.” “If you are in a relationship then you are not in control…to think that you are in control of the relationships in your church is a fallacy.” ***by far my favorite quote “Twitter is not a technology but a conversation, and…

• Key Statistics on the Gen-Y Workforce

  Brian Barela

  26 Jan 2012 | 10:22 am

  Enjoyed reading these statistics from Generation Y: The New Kind of Workforce: One in three said he/she would prioritize social media freedom, device flexibility and work mobility over salary in accepting a job offer. 64% of college students asks about social media usage policies during job interviews and approximately 24% says it would be a key factor in accepting the offer. There is also a high expectation of the employee for the employer to offer a flexible schedule and freedom to work remotely. Sixty-four percent of Gen-Y fails to list their employer on their profiles, yet they add an…

• Simple and Functional Definition of Social Networking

  Brian Barela

  25 Jan 2012 | 10:44 am

  Social networks are essentially systems for distributing content among people who care about each other, and the frequency at which its users can share that content on a particular network is critical to how much value it’ll provide them on an ongoing basis.–Mark Hendrickson, former CEO of Plancast Tweet

• A Simple Plan to Kickstart Social Media in a Large Non-Profit

  Brian Barela

  24 Jan 2012 | 8:49 am

  Changing a large organization’s culture often takes a large and focused push to drive adoption of a new technology or behavior. I found this idea of Immerse and Disperse extremely helpful when thinking about how to tactically drive an organization forward in digital competency. Immerse and Disperse: 15+ people do a stint on a social media team Served for approximately one year. Moved on to another part of the business. Result: 20+ experts, dozens more at intermediate level. T Every organization or part of an organization reaches a plateau as it seeks to adopt social media. Either…

• The 6 Online Places Your Ministry Must Be

  Brian Barela

  23 Jan 2012 | 12:01 pm

  Interesting infographic on the 6 Most Important Communication Channels for Non-Profits: The top three online channels are websites, email, and Facebook. Yet many ministry fundraisers spend most of their time on Facebook, and little time on their website or email. Fundraisers must use these channels as complements to one another instead of copying and pasting the same message in each place. If you are copy/paste mode, then you only receive a linear return on each channel, rather than an exponential one. When fundraisers vary the type and frequency of each communication channel they work…

• 

  FusionLife

• A prayer for the new year

  Ben

  31 Dec 2011 | 6:25 pm

  Disturb us, Lord, when We are too pleased with ourselves, When our dreams have come true Because we dreamed too little, When we arrived safely Because we sailed too close to the shore. Disturb us, Lord, when With the abundance of things we possess We have lost our thirst For the waters of life Having fallen in love with life, We have ceased to dream of eternity And in our efforts to build a new earth, We have allowed our vision Of the new Heaven to dim. Disturb us, Lord, to dare more boldly, To venture on wilder seas Where storms will show Your mastery; Where losing sight of land, We shall…

• 

  Zak White

• 2 Years of Life Change

  Zak White

  26 Jan 2012 | 12:09 pm

  One thing we like to do at Revolution Church is celebrate. God has been way too good to us not to stop and give Him glory for all that we have seen Him do. So this Sunday we are throwing a party! I hope you will join us for worship at 8:30, 10:00 or 11:30am…then, you need to join us for our two year birthday and baptism tailgate party at 12:30 – 2:00pm. We will be at the Revolution Church campus eating, playing games, partying and celebrating life change! Here are just a few highlights that we have seen over the last two years: We have seen 495 people make decisions to follow…

• Just the Beginning

  Zak White

  24 Jan 2012 | 11:09 am

  In late 2011 Revolution Church began supporting a new church plant in Stephenville, TX called Timber Ridge Church. These guys are getting it done and reaching people! Check out this video and the quick hits from Pastor Nic below Revolution Church – a spiritual revolution is happening there in part because of your support! GET FIRED UP! You are reaching people in other cities! The Gospel is going forward! Much like Revolution Church, I believe that this is just the beginning of all that God is going to do at Timber Ridge Church! From Pastor Nic: Here’s some highlights: Held our…

• The Tithe Mind Dump

  Zak White

  22 Jan 2012 | 9:29 pm

  Today was week two of Triple Dog Dare at Revolution Church. Todays dare was “I triple dog dare you to tithe.” Pastor Michael Robison preached with me. Really we just did a conversation based on a few points rather than a “normal” sermon. It was a blast and an honor to share the stage with this man. Here is the most cray cray part…we had at least 2 people accept Christ today! LOVE IT! By the way, “cray cray” is the replacement for “crazy” that I learned I need to be saying if I want to be cool while I was in Atlanta this week. I thought of…

• Messing it All Up

  Zak White

  20 Jan 2012 | 11:34 am

  I’m passionate about messing stuff up. It is a BIG part of my job – to constantly challenge the process as well as examine what we do and why we do it. Culture is progressing faster than ever. We need to be progressing too. I don’t ever want to be stuck with sacred cows in our ministry at Revolution. Instead, I want to challenge things and push forward. At the heart of all of this I have a passionate conviction that every human is created in the image and likeness of God. I believe that we are all broken images and that it is our job to call out of every person the greatness that…

• Yippie Ki-Yay

  Zak White

  19 Jan 2012 | 7:09 am

  Hilarious. Love our team. Great job gents! Don’t miss this Sunday as we continue Triple Dog Dare.

• 

  between realities

• SOPA killed this blog.

  18 Jan 2012 | 3:28 pm

  CENSORED...Find out about SOPA.

• You can't sue, Pastor...

  12 Jan 2012 | 7:30 am

  There was an interesting ruling yesterday from the US Supreme Court.In a unanimous decision, the court upheld that churches have the right to fire "religious" employees without having to deal with federal discrimination regulations. In doing this, the court tacitly acknowledged "ministerial exception" to employment laws. Thus, religious institutions can choose to sack religious workers at will.In other words, to paraphrase the majority opinion, religious organizations can pick (and unpick) who they want, and really do not have to encumber themselves with the same things secular organizations…

• Probably won't make the front page.

  9 Jan 2012 | 3:30 pm

  I challenge you to read this through.Towards the end of last year (December 22nd to be precise) there was a pretty monumental occurrence in Charlotte -- but you probably did not hear about it.Out on the West-side, at the Arbon Glen Outreach Facility, two organizations were having a Christmas party for potentially at-risk students. The kids came from local YMCAs, but the buses were relatively quiet, so you probably didn't hear them either. City Dive (a ministry endeavor of NewBirth Charlotte) and 2xSALT  made it happen. They gave those kids food, presents, music, basketball and…

• Where is your teen? (Straight talk epilogue)

  9 Jan 2012 | 9:00 am

  Being proactively realistic is the key.Your teen is growing up in the 21st century. He/she is likely more computer savvy than most adults. He or she probably carries a power packed phone and/or iPod touch.Your teen is probably a good teen. Your teen probably has a good heart, and mostly stays out of trouble. Your teen also needs to be aware of how crazy of a world it is out there, and if they cannot or will not understand that, you -- the parent -- needs to fill the gap.The first key is understanding. You need to understand the combo minefield/resource concept known as social networking.

• Where is your teen? (Pt 2)

  6 Jan 2012 | 9:00 am

  Before we pick on Twitter, let's take a frank look and see why social networking is such a huge area of opportunity to parents and guardians.Pornography is a huge issue for people of all ages and sexes. Two decades ago, when your stereotypical boy wanted to view nude images, he had to be fortunate enough o have a friend who had a brother who knew a friend that hung out with a dude whose father had a stash of nudie mags. To actually find a "blue movie" you needed an even greater provision of provenance.In other words, you had to work HARD for smut.Today? All it takes is a relatively innocent…

• 

  Business as Mission Network

• 3 Call2business opportunities for 2012

  27 Jan 2012 | 5:55 am

  From our friends at Call2all, they'd like to let everyone know they have 3 events planned for 2012.  1. Amsterdam 2012 April 16-19 Mon-Thurs Call2all Western Europe Congress April 16-19, 2012 You are warmly invited to the Call2all Western Europe Congress – April 16-19, 2012 being held in De Betteld, a beautiful Dutch Christian Conference Centre (www.debetteld.nl). Located close to the

• Social-profit enterprises: Stop Debating and get them going

  24 Jan 2012 | 5:55 am

  The wall between non-profit and for-profit organizations is crumbling in the US legal structure with the recent creations of B-Corps, L3Cs, and now FlexC’s. In actual practice, the social sector moved beyond the value of such distinctions long ago. I think it’s time to move forward into the ‘era of social-profit enterprises’ whose mission outweighs the funding model. It’s time to put more

• Wall Street Journal asks if a Philanthropy should act like a Business?

  19 Jan 2012 | 5:55 am

  It's your money, and you're willing to give some of it away to a worthy cause. But you want to see results. Measurable progress toward agreed-upon goals. Regular proof that your investment is achieving maximum impact. That's the way businesses operate, and charities should be no different. That's one way to look at it, anyway. Others argue that things work differently in the world of

• Global CEO Event Coming to Chicago April 11-13

  13 Jan 2012 | 5:55 am

  The Global CEO Network was founded in 2004 as a “users group” for those practicing business as mission in a commercial context. The goals are not to inspire people to become involved in the business as mission movement, but rather to support those who are doing it. The next event is to be held in Chicago April 11-13, 2012.The focus is on “commercial” business as mission, a segment of the

• 12 Ways to Glorify God at Work by Desiring God Ministries

  12 Jan 2012 | 5:55 am

  Mark Twain once said, "Work is a necessary evil to be avoided." Although there may be days when we feel like he got it right, we know God has ordained work as a stewardship of his created world (Genesis 1:28; 2:15). He has designed work for his glory and our good. But how might we glorify God at work? This list is not exhaustive, but here's at least 12 ways — 1. Believe that all legitimate

• 

  CJ Alvarado

• Work vs Creative Labor

  CJ

  20 Jan 2012 | 1:03 pm

  I found a great article on work and creative labor from 99%.  As a guy who leads creatives, the topic of work and creativity is one I’m always trying to better understand.  Work, as expressed below, is willed into action.  Creative labor, on the other hand, is not always something I can “will” in existence....

• Apple to announce tools, platform to “digitally destroy” textbook publishing

  CJ

  18 Jan 2012 | 1:43 pm

  The technology to completely challenge the way textbooks are handle in universities has always been here.  It’s the business model that’s scared so many away.  An article today gives us reason to believe Apple is going to stir it up again.  I love it. “MacInnis sees Apple as possibly up-ending the traditional print publishing model...

• Innovation Series: Chances With Wolves

  CJ

  2 Jan 2012 | 1:03 pm

  The Innovation Series feature creatives that are exploring new ways to share their passion with the world. 10 years ago if you had a beloved music collection of rare jazz recordings and wanted to share it with the world, it would be practically impossible to do so.  The internet and social technology is changing that...

• Power of Circles

  CJ

  30 Dec 2011 | 2:47 pm

  Social technology is giving us the ability to form circles of specialization in new ways and there is tremendous benefit to this.  Though the power of circles isn’t new per se, who we form them with, how we form them and how often we engage in them is entirely new.  Social technology gives us reach...

• Steve Jobs on Why Apple Exists

  CJ

  4 Nov 2011 | 5:14 pm

• 

  Revitalize Your Church

• Vibrant Ministry for the Long Haul

  Mark Wilson

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  "After  more than four decades in active ministry my enthusiasm is undiminished.  I'm not tired or burned out, or discouraged.  In fact, I love ministry more today than ever before.  As long as God gives me stregth I plan to walk through every door He opens and to do everything He calls me today.  I'm not looking for a place to stop, just for wisdom and guidance to do all the Lord puts before me!" -- Richard Exley (HT Al Prentice)

• What Do You Really Need to Know?

  Mark Wilson

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  Mark Roberts' take on a fascinating New York Times piece by Harvard president, Lawrence Summers, What You (Really) Need to Know.  What are the implications for church ministry and discipleship?

• Blessings in Disguise

  Mark Wilson

  25 Jan 2012 | 2:13 pm

  The early Salvation Army officer, Samuel Brengle, was preaching on a Boston street corner, when a young hoodlum attacked him by throwing a brick.  The blow to Brengle’s head caused severe injury, which threatened his very life. Laid up for eighteen months, Brengle was unable to perform his duties.  Housebound, he could not accomplish important tasks, and felt totally useless. But Brengle lived by this principle:  when life throws you lemons, make lemonade! Attempting to redeem time during his housebound recuperation, he began to write a few articles to encourage people in…

• Conversations in Effective Children's Ministry

  Mark Wilson

  25 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  Jeremy Mavis is posting a fascinating series of reflections on a Children's Ministry White Paper by Daug Paul from Eicon Community Church. (the paper is found here) Jeremy is responding to each of the ten sections in Paul's paper, and it's really good stuff It All Starts with Discipleship Children’s Ministry Research Parents as the Primary Disciplers of their Children How People Learn Role of the Church What We Want Our Kids to Know How We Will Do Children’s Ministry The Church Equips Parents Disciple Their Kids What If the Parents Aren’t Christians?

• Patch the Sidewalk

  Mark Wilson

  24 Jan 2012 | 6:53 am

  A few years ago, our church board's annual vision strategy meeting didn't go too well. We talked around a dozen issues but ended up making only one momentuous decision: Patch the Sidewalk! Merits of a laying a new sidewalk vs patching the old one were discussed at length.  Strong opinions were expressed from both sides.   After a long, circular debate, frugality won the day. Looking back, I sure wish I had led that meeting towards a more inspiring end. Imagine, standing before the congregation the next Sunday with this important announcement: "Brothers and sisters, last…

• 

  Challies Dot Com - Informing the Reforming

• Reviews I Didn't Write

  Tim

  27 Jan 2012 | 10:59 am

  I love writing book reviews and I love reading them. Since I cannot possibly read and review all of the interesting books out there, I’ve decided to put together some occasional round-ups of reviews written by other writers. Here are a few notable links I’ve collected over the past few weeks.The Biblical Counseling Movement After Adams by Heath Lambert - review by Bob Kellemen. “While not everyone will agree with all of Lambert’s contrasts and comparisons, especially those most loyal to Jay Adams and his nouthetic counseling model, the book successfully breaks…

• Free Stuff Fridays

  Tim

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:58 am

  This week’s Free Stuff Friday is sponsored by CBD Reformed. As always they’ve got a great prize package for you—or five of them, as it happens. Crazy Love by Francis Chan - Retail price $14.99Radical by David Platt - Retail Price $14.99Saved From What? by R.C. Sproul - Retail Price $16.99In addition, CBD Reformed is offering a 4-day sale (January 27 - January 30) on the following three products:Fundamentals of the Faith by John MacArthur - retail $10.99 / sale $5.99The Archer and the Arrow: Preaching the Very Words of God by Phillip Jensen…

• A La Carte (1/27)

  Tim

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:24 am

  Post-Prayer Whispers - David Murray lists some of the little whispers you can hear after you pray. “Anyone else get that? It’s so discouraging, isn’t it. I mean, why pray if all you get at the end of it is an even heavier feeling of guilt and failure? Prayer should be a delight not a dread.”Black and White - Thabiti Anyabwile asks an interesting question: where does blackness and whiteness come from?Too Good to Be True - Do you remember the story of the flight attendant who survived a 33,000 foot fall (I remember reading about her years and years ago in The…

• Wordsmithy

  Tim

  26 Jan 2012 | 8:16 am

  Love him or hate him, and there are some on either extreme, Douglas Wilson can flat-out write. He has put this talent to use in writing over thirty books and countless articles, blog posts and the like. In his newest book, Wordsmithy, he offers up a series of hot tips for the writing life, a collection of lessons that he has learned along the way.I probably need to stop right here to say that I don’t want you to take this little review as a blanket endorsement of Wilson or his previous books or his theological emphases. There is a long list of issues on which he and I would…

• A La Carte (1/26)

  Tim

  26 Jan 2012 | 7:24 am

  9Marks Books on Sale - Westminster Books has all of the 9Marks books on sale. This is a great time to stock up on some really good books, including a brand new one from Thabiti Anyabwile.Teens and Porn - Courtesy of Covenant Eyes, here’s an infographic with 10 stats you need to know when it comes to teens and pornography. For example, only 3% of teenaged boys and 17% of girls have not seen Internet porn. In a somewhat similar vein, here’s an infographic about the Millennial generation.An Announcement about Mahaney - Dave Harvey: “In July 2011, Sovereign Grace Ministries…

• 

  Desiring God Blog

• Speaking to Muslims About the Crucified Christ

  27 Jan 2012 | 5:20 pm

  John Piper writes, Jesus said, “I know that you do not have the love of God within you. I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not receive me. If another comes in his own name, you will receive him” (John 5:42–43). When Jesus says, “receive him,” he means receive him for who he really is: the divine, eternal Son of God who lays down his life for the sheep and takes it up again in three days. If a person does not receive him in this way, that person, Jesus says, does not love God. Jesus said, “The Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to…

• Ed Stetzer on Spiritual Warfare

  27 Jan 2012 | 3:00 pm

  Theology Refresh is a podcast for pastors and Christian leaders designed to sharpen our grasp of key doctrines used in everyday ministry. Each podcast is around 15-minutes (or less), which is the time it takes for the average daily commute. The latest discussion is with Ed Stetzer on spiritual warfare. It's a mistake to dismiss the battle that's going on around us. God is sovereign, reigning over all, and his creatures have rebelled. This includes everyone until Jesus intervenes to save. Then we become citizens of another kingdom — we rebel against the rebellion. Stream or download this…

• New Piper Messages Now Available

  27 Jan 2012 | 12:00 pm

  John Piper recently gave a series of messages at the Campus Outreach National Conference in Chattanooga, TN. All the messages are now available for streaming and download: One Life: Enjoy It! One Life: Don't Waste It! For Men: Augustine, Sin, and Sovereign Joy Piper One on One Campus Outreach Speaker Panel For the full conference media of other speakers and seminars, check out Campus Outreach National Conference.

• Read and Share "Seeing and Savoring" for $5

  27 Jan 2012 | 10:00 am

  "The aim of this book is to help you see and savor Christ. It is not my word that counts, but God's. He has borne witness to his Son. His witness is compelling. May he give you eyes to see and hearts to savor." (Pastor John) You can now order the book for just $5. (Because our inventory is limited, this offer is good while supplies last; only available over the web) Other Specials Finally Alive ($5) The Dangerous Duty of Delight ($5) Think ($5) A Holy Ambition ($5)

• Parents, Beware: Proverbs Are Not Promises

  27 Jan 2012 | 4:00 am

  Far too many of us who (rightly) renounce the so-called "prosperity gospel" (wrongly) coddle our own little version of it as we focus on our families. Richard Pratt: In recent decades, Christian television has spread what many call the “prosperity gospel” — the misguided belief that if we have enough faith, God will heal our diseases and provide us with great financial blessings. Of course, most people reading this article scoff at the thought that faith can yield such benefits. But don’t laugh too hard.  We have our own prosperity gospel for our families. We simply…

• 

  ToddRhoades.com

• Elephant Room Haters Unite

  Todd Rhoades

  27 Jan 2012 | 10:13 am

  I wish there was a button for that.  Actually, I don’t, but there are some brothers reading this who do…  

• Carol Channing Sings Your Gospel Favorites

  Todd Rhoades

  27 Jan 2012 | 8:47 am

  Today’s special is almost gone… Carol Channing singing your favorite gospel and negro spirituals.  Hurry, there’s a limited supply left.  Order yours today. Click here to hear some short out-takes from the album: Enjoy. HT:  fourfour.typepad.com and christiannightmares

• Code Orange Wrap-up

  Todd Rhoades

  27 Jan 2012 | 7:33 am

  Pretty cool.  Take a look at this video synopsis of Elevation Church’s Code Orange Revival:

• Facebook Timelines are all the same

  Todd Rhoades

  26 Jan 2012 | 12:18 pm

  See if this looks familiar:

• Bomb Threat at Southeast Christian

  Todd Rhoades

  26 Jan 2012 | 12:15 pm

  Police say the person who called in a bomb threat to Southeast Christian Church was one of the congregation’s own members. Michael Schad pleaded not guilty to charges of terroristic threatening Wednesday morning. Police say he told them he put bombs in Southeast Christian Church, where he’s a member, and Lampton Baptist Church. Officers didn’t find anything. Schad’s attorney says his client is taking medication for bipolar disorder. Schad was released from jail on the condition that he visit the VA Hospital and stay away from Southeast. More here. How would your church…

• 

  Pastor Steven Furtick

• Code Orange Revival Recap

  Steven Furtick

  24 Jan 2012 | 5:15 am

  God moved in a mighty way during the past 12 days of Code Orange Revival! These pictures are just a glimpse of some of the most powerful moments. And here’s a video our team put together to celebrate what God has already done through the first part of 2012. This is not a highlight reel – it’s a preview of what God is going to do this year.

• The Vision Behind the Elevation Network

  Steven Furtick

  12 Jan 2012 | 5:15 am

  This is such an exciting time for our church. Not only did Code Orange Revival kick off last night, but we have also launched a brand new initiative that will open up unlimited opportunity to reach people all over the world with the power of the gospel. As a church we have always sought to leverage technology to increase our platform for ministry, so we have launched The Elevation Network: a 24 hour a day, 7 day a week Gospel preaching ministry. The Elevation Network is our gift to you, and is a free online network that will stream round the clock gospel preaching. When you tune into the…

• Code Orange Revival Behind the Scenes

  Steven Furtick

  11 Jan 2012 | 5:15 am

  We wanted to share a quick insider, behind the scenes look on the eve of the launch of the Code Orange Revival. Make your plans to join us starting tonight at 6:12pm.

• The First Step to Realizing God’s Purpose—Special Sneak Peek

  Steven Furtick

  10 Jan 2012 | 5:15 am

  I got such an encouraging response the last time I did this, I felt like it was time to do it again. In September of this year, I’m planning to release my second book, Greater. It’s getting hard for me to be patient, because now that the final edits are complete, I am bursting to get this message into your hands. I feel confident that it is going to help you ignite God’s vision for your life, whatever that vision may be. But production schedules are what they are, and we’ve got to wait a while. So, in the meantime, I thought I’d give you another sneak peak into one of the chapters…

• If You’re Feeling Stuck…

  Steven Furtick

  9 Jan 2012 | 5:15 am

  About two years ago, I completed a personal evaluation exercise in my journal. I wanted to uncover the 3 main factors that keep me from moving forward and embracing new paradigms in my life and leadership. In other words: why do I stay stuck? From my journal to your computer screen, here’s my short list. I blogged it in 2009, but felt like it may be appropriate to share as we begin this new year…to help somebody go forward in God. 1. Complacency Change is hard. Positive change is just as hard as negative change. Sometimes it’s easier to stay stuck than to move forward. Often it’s more…

• 

  adrianwarnock.com

• The Church, a refuge for God’s people who are struggling

  adrian.warnock@gmail.com (Adrian Warnock)

  24 Jan 2012 | 2:03 am

  “The Lord has founded Zion, and in her the afflicted of his people find refuge.” Isaiah 14:32 I have found myself thinking a lot about the church in the last day or so. This is no doubt prompted by Tope’s excellent sermon on Sunday. But what strikes me afresh is how easy it is to [...] The rest of this article is available by following the link above

• The vital role of attending a church in softening your heart to receive God’s word a sermon by Tope Koleoso

  adrian.warnock@gmail.com (Adrian Warnock)

  23 Jan 2012 | 12:06 pm

  Tope Koleoso was on fire yesterday as he preached this message. It will provoke you. It will encourage you to respect God’s word in a new way. It will thrill you again with the vital role that the church plays in opening our hearts to receive the life-giving power of God’s word. Here a few [...] The rest of this article is available by following the link above

• Mark Driscoll on British Christians – hear it for yourself (the full interview with Justin Brierley)

  adrian.warnock@gmail.com (Adrian Warnock)

  14 Jan 2012 | 5:54 pm

  Over the last few days there has been a fair amount of discussion online about the interview I link to below.  It is a conversation between two people whom I both consider to be my friends. Mark Driscoll, the sometimes controversial pastor of Mars Hill Church, Seattle has done much to advance the cause of [...] The rest of this article is available by following the link above

• Tall Skinny Kiwi reports on Practices of a new Jesus movement

  adrian.warnock@gmail.com (Adrian Warnock)

  10 Jan 2012 | 4:31 am

  I read a fascinating article about the Kiwis observations of some emerging Christian movements. Now, those of you that are regular readers will know that I am passionately committed to Sunday Services especially when a group of believers have grown enough to sustain one. Howeve, in light of my “I want it all” committmet you [...] The rest of this article is available by following the link above

• Today Jim Elliot Was Killed (1956) and God turned it around for good

  adrian.warnock@gmail.com (Adrian Warnock)

  8 Jan 2012 | 8:22 am

  If God can turn the brutal murder of a group of young missionaries around for good, how much more what you are facing today? Go read the rest o this article which begins, “Today in 1956, five missionaries to the Auca indians in Ecuador were killed. Their deaths brought a sudden end to the project [...] The rest of this article is available by following the link above

• 

  Reformissionary

• Joseph Arthur | Redemption City FREE

  Steve McCoy

  23 Jan 2012 | 1:55 pm

  Joseph Arthur had my #2 album of 2006, Nuclear Daydream. His new double album is out and it's FREE. Download Redemption City.

• Explore App - The Good Book Company

  Steve McCoy

  23 Jan 2012 | 11:06 am

  I really like The Good Book Company. Brad Byrd is a friend and is always telling me about new resources they are putting out. But before he could even tell me about it, I noticed the Explore app on The Good Book blog and downloaded it on my phone. It's excellent. It's a self-paced devotional that you can use daily or use as you want. You start with 28 daily devotions free as an introduction to the devotional, and then you can subscribe to more. And these aren't just written by some no-name dude behind the scenes. They come from guys like Tim Chester, Christopher Ash, and Tim Keller.  Go…

• Avett Brothers | "One Too Many Mornings" Dylan Cover

  Steve McCoy

  20 Jan 2012 | 9:27 am

  The Avett Brothers visit Fallon to cover Bob Dylan's "One Too Many Mornings." Excellent as always!

• Lots-o-Links 1.18.12

  Steve McCoy

  18 Jan 2012 | 12:22 pm

  The Death of the Fringe Suburb For too long, we over-invested in the wrong places. Those retail centers and subdivisions will never be worth what they cost to build. We have to stop throwing good money after bad. It is time to instead build what the market wants: mixed-income, walkable cities and suburbs that will support the knowledge economy, promote environmental sustainability and create jobs. Seven Tips for Talking with Your Neighbors About Jesus For whatever reason, it’s easy for Christians to clam up and get weird when talking about their faith in the day-to-day. Here are a few…

• Stephen Miller: God & Sinner Reconcile

  Steve McCoy

  17 Jan 2012 | 10:34 am

  I get excited thinking about the direction some are taking with worship music. While there's a glut of stuff out there that all sounds the same to me and that I just can't listen to, there's a new breed of creative, biblical/theological worship guys at solid churches who are changing the game. I want to do what I can to encourage the creation of new, good worship music. Some of the music I've pointed to before includes Sojourn, Bifrost Arts, Aaron Ivey, Joe Day, Page CXVI, and others. Today I want to introduce you to someone who may be new to you. Stephen Miller, worship leader at The Journey…

• 

  Worship Matters

• Have Mercy on Me – Video from The Gathering

  Bob Kauflin

  24 Jan 2012 | 1:12 pm

  The first song I heard that I thought would be on our most recent album, The Gathering, was Have Mercy on Me. Co-written by Dale Bischof and Pat Sczebel, it combines grief over sin with an assurance of God’s mercy in Christ. Even though as Christians all our sins are completely forgiven (Col. 2:13), we can continue to battle either ongoing condemnation or arrogant presumption. The first results in an attitude that binds us, discourages us, and makes us fearful of approaching God. The second equally dangerous mindset supposes that because our sins have been paid for by Christ’s…

• David Peterson on Revelation and the Songs We Sing

  Bob Kauflin

  19 Jan 2012 | 7:36 pm

  My top recommended book on a biblical theology of worship is David Peterson’s Engaging with God. If you’re responsible for leading in your church, either as a pastor or a musician, I think you’ll serve people more faithfully and biblically if you read it. I go through it every year with my interns and never fail to come away from our discussion times with fresh understanding and inspiration for leading corporate worship. Peterson focuses on worship as it’s understood in the Old Testament, the gospels, and various epistles. The chapters on Hebrews and Revelation by…

• As You Go – The Evolution of a Song

  Bob Kauflin

  12 Jan 2012 | 8:15 am

  Here’s our latest video from The Gathering: Live from WorshipGod11. As You Go was written by Mark Altrogge, who has been writing songs for Sovereign Grace Music since the early 1980s. That’s a long time. It amazes me how he continues to write such theologically rich, relevant, singable songs. What you may not know is that even with the decades of experience Mark has, he is one of the easiest people to work with when it comes to suggesting changes to his songs. Rather than giving you a detailed explanation of why he wrote what he did, or sharing 5 reasons why no alternative could…

• The Piano in Contemporary Worship, Part 3

  Bob Kauflin

  7 Jan 2012 | 2:53 pm

  Last month I posted two sessions from the pre-conference workshop I taught at WorshipGod11 on the Piano in Contemporary Worship (Part 1 and Part 2). We finally finished editing the third session. This one took a little more time to edit because people were regularly walking past the window of the door in the video, which is a bit distracting. My good friend Dave Mackenzie performed his video wizardry and edited the movement out. In this session I deal with many of the specific questions I’ve been asked over the years. Those include: chord coloring inversions playing hymns developing…

• What Goes On at a Sovereign Grace Songwriting Retreat?

  Bob Kauflin

  6 Jan 2012 | 10:37 am

  We had our 10th songwriter retreat this past October. In a previous post I shared some details from our 2010 retreat. Since a couple guys have asked me about these recently, here’s a little more info. Sovereign Grace is a family of over 90 churches. We’ve been producing albums since around 1984. At first, we were simply getting out songs that Mark Altrogge was writing. Songs like “I Have a Destiny,” “In My Generation,” and “You Sat Down.” We started producing “Song Service Tapes” that went to Sovereign Grace churches and anyone…

• 

  Deep Thoughts by Gman

• Three Books I'm currently reading.

  27 Jan 2012 | 11:39 am

  They say every leader is a reader. So here is what I am currently reading. What are you currently reading? http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/ZioO

• How the Disciples Began and Grew - MM Davis - A book Review!

  25 Jan 2012 | 11:58 am

  I just finished reading "A short History of the Christian Church" published in 1915. Several things stood out to me especially the quote from President Johnson of former Johnson Bible College now Johnson University ... pg. 171; "President Johnson says we must do one of two things: train more preachers, or become a 'disappearing brotherhood' amd he prefers the former, and is doing his part in preacher-training." How true a Statement!!! Even for the 21st Century over 97 yrs later. The other thing that stood out to me was on pg. 192 "Canada now has 100 churches, 10, 000 members, 90 ministers…

• Not a Fan Series: More Than Rules.

  25 Jan 2012 | 11:46 am

  There is more than rules to Christianity. Fans have rules. Followers go beyond the rules .... Rules tend to hinder and make a religion. Jesus wants a relationship. Rules define, and bound. A relationship is ongoing, and consuming.... helping the journey, not hindering the outcome. So this week - we look at why Christianity, Jesus, and the Bible is more than rules .... http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/ZioO

• Cell phones in Church

  24 Jan 2012 | 4:50 pm

  http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/ZioO

• Shows I Watch Today.

  23 Jan 2012 | 2:00 am

  Here are some TV shows I occasionally like watching: 10. America's Funniest Videos 9. World's Dumbest .... 8. Psych 7. Shipping Wars 6. American Pickers 5. Pawn Stars 4. Ice Road Truckers 3. Lizard Lick Towing 2. Today show 1. Storage Wars. What Shows do you watch?http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/ZioO

• 

  Church IT Network

• Configure Asterisk as a SIP Proxy for Avaya IPO & Lync

  jasonlee

  27 Jan 2012 | 10:43 pm

  Project Scope Preparing for Deployment – Research and Education and Pricing Deployment of Standard Server & Director Role Deployment of Edge and Reverse Proxy Deployment of Lync Voice Capabilities Configuring Lync PSTN Calling thru Avaya IPOffice Configure Lync 4 Digit Extension Dialing without DIDs Configure Asterisk as a SIP Proxy for Avaya IPO and and Lync Deployment of Lync Client to users Training This post is a continuation of a series of posts about Lync Deployment. The documentation portion of this project has gotten the back burner, and I need to say that a blogger I am not..

• Configure Asterisk as a SIP Proxy for Avaya IPO & Lync

  jasonlee

  27 Jan 2012 | 10:43 pm

  Project Scope Preparing for Deployment – Research and Education and Pricing Deployment of Standard Server & Director Role Deployment of Edge and Reverse Proxy Deployment of Lync Voice Capabilities Configuring Lync PSTN Calling thru Avaya IPOffice Configure Lync 4 Digit Extension Dialing without DIDs Configure Asterisk as a SIP Proxy for Avaya IPO and and Lync Deployment of Lync Client to users Training This post is a continuation of a series of posts about Lync Deployment. The documentation portion of this project has gotten the back burner, and I need to say that a blogger I am not..

• CCM Launches Changed Website

  Chris Kehayias

  23 Jan 2012 | 7:02 pm

  It’s now been up and online for 48 hours, so let’s quickly review the construction and launch of http://www.changelookslikethis.com. So what is Change all about.  No this isn’t an attempt to re-brand President Obama’s campaign slogan, or some funky weird pseudo-Christian thing, but instead we are attempting to get the message of the Gospel out there in fresh creative ways.  In a word, Changed is a collection of testimonies from REAL people at our church.  These are REAL stories about how a REAL God encounter CHANGED each person forever. CHANGED is now operating on the…

• Help Desk Stats For 2011 Part 1

  Jason Powell

  18 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  I enjoy stats. So when each year ends it's fun to see how our help desk stats have changed vs the prior year. Did we have more or less support requests? What were the variables driving the overall activity each month and the entire year? Were any IT initiatives or improvements reflected in the stats? All things considered equal, we're hoping to see fewer overall requests each year. If that's the case, one could assume that our systems and equipment are performing well and thus staff are busy getting ministry done instead of needing IT support. However, things are often changing from year to…

• My 2012 One Blog Post A Week Goal

  Jason Powell

  16 Jan 2012 | 7:27 pm

  Well hello there blog! Long time no see. After severe neglect over the past 2 years, I've decided (after much building guilt and prompting from friends/peers) to revive you again from the ashes of despair. My goal is simple: One blog post for you each week. I've even asked a few select friends to keep me accountable to you this year :-) So stay tuned my friend! I look forward to getting to know you again!!!

• 

  Marketing Integrity

• Knowing Your Audience

  David Tonen

  19 Jan 2012 | 7:07 am

  We are just a couple weeks away from the 2012 Superbowl Ads weekend. One of my favorite times of the year…for the game and for the ads!  The smart companies, who have invested a ton in their ad production and placement are leveraging social media to advance their marketing reach and impact. Volkswagen knows that one of their core demographics is the Star Wars generation. To to play on that nostalgia, they have created another ad themed around this and integrated…dogs. People of all demographics like animals in ads don’t they?  The combination is a perfect mix that…

• Technology Just Makes Sense

  David Tonen

  17 Jan 2012 | 6:51 am

  Sometimes, Dilbert just says it perfectly…

• In 2012, I Hate Religion

  David Tonen

  13 Jan 2012 | 7:54 am

  I am trying to re-calibrate my life. Everyone needs to do that right?  I am not talking about starting a new year and making a whole ton of resolutions that I will never keep. I am talking about assessment. 2011 was a phenomenal year for me.  I ran my church marketing and communications company full-time for the full-calendar year. It was an amazing journey and an amazing privilege to work with so many ministry-passionate clients.  I started a church communications podcast, teamed up with a great bunch of guys to launch a Christian Business Magazine, and served in my Halifax church as…

• God’s Not Dead

  David Tonen

  10 Jan 2012 | 11:36 am

  I realize we are already 10 days into 2012 but I thought I would start off the new year of posts here with a statement: God is Not Dead I think the Newsboys sum that up nicely in their latest music video. If you cannot see it below, please click here.

• Merry Christmas…from the Tonen’s

  David Tonen

  25 Dec 2011 | 2:01 pm

  Like it? Create your own at GoAnimate.com. It’s free and fun! If you cannot see the video…click here…

• 

  Blog

• Q&A with Gungor

  25 Jan 2012 | 10:21 am

  Husband and wife Michael and Lisa Gungor lead the musical collective Gungor. They’ve released two full-length albums, including their most recent release, Ghosts Upon the Earth. The Gungors also contribute to worship at Bloom, a church they helped plant in Denver, Colo. Here, they discuss theology, community and why, just as with God, you can’t put worship in a box.

• Question of the Week

  24 Jan 2012 | 6:00 pm

  Each week, Neue asks a question that is meant to challenge, inspire and encourage today's ministry leaders. Feel free to respond and discuss in the comment section. This week, we want to know: What do you think of the concept of "celebrity pastors"?

• Blaine Hogan

  22 Jan 2012 | 6:00 pm

  We talk to author and Willow Creek Creative Director, Blaine Hogan. Click to listen now or subscribe at iTunes.

• Storytelling in the Church

  18 Jan 2012 | 10:20 am

  It probably goes without saying that the American church hasn’t always valued creativity as highly as it should. But that seems to be changing. Churches all over the country have creative teams, weekly church services are markedly more creative and conferences like STORY have injected new imagination into sanctuaries everywhere.

• Question of the Week

  17 Jan 2012 | 6:00 pm

  Each week, Neue asks a question that is meant to challenge, inspire and encourage today's ministry leaders. Feel free to respond and discuss in the comment section. This week, we want to know: Do you schedule time for you and your team to be creative?

• 

  Thinking Out Loud

• Close Up: How Church Discipline Happens at Mars Hill Seattle

  paulthinkingoutloud

  27 Jan 2012 | 4:55 am

  This is an article about how Mark Driscoll’s church — Mars Hill in Seattle, WA — handles church discipline issues and excommunication, presented anecdotally and in painstaking detail. I have no hesitation in importing large amounts of text from other blogs if I think it means that people will actually read the subject matter in question, but in this case, you are indeed going to have to click, because the narrative is lengthy; but also because you need to reward all the work that went into making this story available. In a two-part blog post,  Mark Driscoll’s Church…

• The Elephant Has Left The Building

  paulthinkingoutloud

  27 Jan 2012 | 4:37 am

  I was going to devote this space today to a collection of blogger reactions to The Elephant Room 2 satellite conference presented by James MacDonald.  However, the reactions among bloggers at the two Alltop aggregators (church and Christianity) were much more sparse than I expected, and the whole thing has been somewhat overshadowed by MacDonald’s resignation from The Gospel Coalition, an organization we choose not to track here. A greater degree of research is obviously required, and some attendees are still making their way back to their home computers. So, rather than do a…

• Choosing My Religion (On the Basis of Music)

  paulthinkingoutloud

  26 Jan 2012 | 9:20 pm

  This classic bit from Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers is old, I know; but I figured someone out there may be in need of a laugh right now.

• The Discussion They Never Had

  paulthinkingoutloud

  26 Jan 2012 | 5:09 am

  They were married for 37 years. After she passed away, he says — and friends confirm — he cried ‘buckets and buckets of tears.’ “I don’t know where she is right now;” he told friends, referring his lack of insight into her eternal destiny. They never had that conversation. They simply never discussed faith-related subjects. And here’s the surprise ending: They went to church almost every Sunday.

• Wednesday Link List

  paulthinkingoutloud

  25 Jan 2012 | 4:34 am

  The rug and lamp cozy living room theme from Grace Community Church in Fremont, Ohio as seen at the blog, Church Stage Design Ideas Why are opening remarks called an introduction, but concluding remarks are never called an extroduction? Emotionally stirring:  Caiden Hooks, eight-years-old, lost his eyes to cancer.  He shares his faith in a baptism video produced at LifePoint Church in Columbus, Ohio: “We live by faith and not by sight.” Frank Viola attempts a classification of Evangelicals into four distinct streams.  It’s actually part two of an article he posted in May.

• 

  Ministry-To-Children.com

• How to Make Sunday School More Fun

  Jenny Funderburke

  23 Jan 2012 | 7:41 am

  One of my favorite quotes of all time is “It is a sin to bore a kid with the Bible“.  I don’t know who originally said it, but I saw it long ago used in an ad for curriculum.  I completely agree. We have the most exciting story of all time to tell, yet Sunday School does not generally have the reputation for being fun.  How can we change that?  Here are six steps to help bring more fun into your Sunday School. 1.  Be prepared.  Let’s be honest, listening to someone read straight from the teacher’s guide and watching them have their nose buried in the book…

• Preschool Bible Lesson: Jesus on Trial

  Kara Jenkins

  23 Jan 2012 | 7:29 am

  This is lesson continues our curriculum for preschoolers about knowing Jesus. Each lesson is based on a passage in the Gospel of Mark. You can read the series introduction for more explanation and links to the other lessons. This particular lesson is from passages in Mark 14 & 15 where Jesus is on trial. Preschoolers will discover that Jesus took great pain to help them come to God. Jesus suffered greatly in obedience to the Father so that we might be forgiven and reconciled to Him. Bible Passage:  Mark 14:53-65; 15:1-20 Bible Lesson Title: Jesus on Trial Target Age Group: 4-5 years…

• 7 Ways Small Churches Can Reach Preteens

  Guest Writer

  20 Jan 2012 | 7:55 am

  **This is a guest post from Nick Diliberto from PreteenMinistry.net In my last post, I offered many reasons for small churches (or church plants) to launch a preteen ministry. In this post, I’m going to share a few ways they can effectively reach preteens. 1. Split up preteens for weekend services. Ideally, it’s the best way to go. If preteens meet separately, you can design programming and an environment that is age specific. As a result, you maximize impact. However, not every small church has the resources to do so. If that’s you, read on. 2. Launch a midweek group. Midweek is a…

• February Calendar Coloring Page

  Mandy Groce

  19 Jan 2012 | 1:18 pm

  Click above to download This free coloring page calendar for February will help children learn their months and number the days. The illustration shows a young girl with paper heart shapes and has the following peom: Father thank you for this month, The shortest of the year. Teach us now to love each one, of those that we find near. Directions: You can right-click on the following links to download this printable in your preferred format. PDF ~ easy to print JPEG ~ advanced users can edit With young children, the teacher should complete the date boxes before making copies. For children in…

• “I is for Israel” Coloring Page

  Mandy Groce

  19 Jan 2012 | 10:05 am

  Click above to download For the next letter in our  Bible Alphabet, readers chose Israel as the theme. Use this coloring page to teach children about God’s plan in using one nation to bring his blessing to the whole world. The people of Israel were chosen by God as an expression of his love and faithfulness. Directions: To download this free printable, simply right-click on the links below. We’ve made the sheet available in two different formats. PDF ~ easy to print JPEG ~ for advanced editing You can leave your feedback about this project in the comment section below. Feel free…

• 

  beyond the noise

• Sunday Setlist: January 22, 2012

  Matthew Starner

  24 Jan 2012 | 10:27 am

  We started a new series a week ago called Going Beyond Our Comfort Zone, looking at things like Sharing Your Faith, Growing in Faith, Giving and others. We found a great graphic over at CreationSwap.com that plays off of a Twilight Zone theme, because going beyond your comfort zone can feel a lot like going into the twilight zone! This week, we looked at Growing In Our Faith. This was a bit of a challenge because many people who regularly attend church feel like a message like this is just for those who are new to Christianity. They’ll tune out and decide that there’s nothing for…

• 5 Ways to Use Technology at Church

  Matthew Starner

  17 Jan 2012 | 2:07 pm

  In case you might not have picked up on it, I’m a fan of technology. I’m also very pro technology when it comes to church and leveraging that technology to make things interactive, engaging and user-friendly. So if your church isn’t on the technology train yet or you’re wondering if there’s something new that you might be missing, here’s some places to start: 5. Get On Facebook Unless you’ve been under a technological rock for the last 5 years, Facebook is pretty much the biggest thing since, well, the internet. Right now, Facebook boasts some 800…

• Taking my next steps

  Matthew Starner

  10 Jan 2012 | 9:32 am

  At Journey, our mission is about helping people take their next step. For us as a church that usually means taking a next step in their relationship with Jesus, and EVERYone has a next step. When we stay in one place too long things start to stagnate – and that goes for all aspects of life, not just spiritual. That’s why last fall, I decided to take a next step in my life. I decided to go back to school and continue my education. It’s something I’ve thought about doing for some time but never really knew how I was going to make it work. Working full-time in ministry is…

• Sunday Setlist – January 1, 2012

  Matthew Starner

  1 Jan 2012 | 3:24 pm

  2012 is here and starting it with worship on New Year’s Day was the right way to begin! This is the first time since Journey of Faith began that New Year’s Day has fallen on a Sunday and we’ve never done a New Year’s Day service before, so I didn’t know what to expect. It ended up being a light service, but still a great time of worship. Our Setlist this Sunday: All We Need, Charlie Hall Your Grace Is Enough, Matt Mahar Glorious One, Steve Fee The Message All Glory, Tim Hughes Offering & Prayers Everyday, Joel Houston Music this week focused on God’s…

• Sunday Setlist – Christmas Edition

  Matthew Starner

  27 Dec 2011 | 9:38 am

  Merry [two days after] Christmas! It always amazes me how fast Christmas comes and goes and that all the plans and preparations for Christmas are over. I hope your celebrations of Christ’s birth were filled with his Spirit! I’m going to cover all three Christmas worship services in this edition, so hold on and prepare for lots of Christmas music! First up, the Christmas Eve Family Service at 6:30pm. We designed this service for families and children. We kept it short, entertaining and fun. We used a skit we found here and adapted it to fit the number of kids we had. It was…

• 

  Man of Depravity

• Friends and Religious Community

  Tyler

  27 Jan 2012 | 8:30 am

  The television show Friends remains one of the most watched shows ever on television. Running for 238 episodes over 10 full seasons the show is one of the few over recent history to have such longevity. I’ve often wondered what sets apart certain television shows from the other. What made Friends such a raving success compared to other shows of its time? In Friends we see a community of otherwise unlike people (though not really diverse either, I admit) come together in order to share life with each other. Outside of the show being fairly funny (admit it, Joey and Chandler made you…

• The Masterpiece Out of Our Mess

  Tyler

  23 Jan 2012 | 8:30 am

  One of my favorite songs in high school was Frail by Jars of Clay. It’s a haunting song, but lately it’s the lyrics that have been haunting for me, not the sound. My favorite lyrics have always been the last verse which say: Exposed beyond the shadows You take the cup from me Your dirt removes my blindness Your pain becomes my peace The song has always resonated with me because of it’s comfort with recognizing human frailty and failure. While I have loved and pursued God for most of my life, it rarely looks pretty and put together. As I’ve been finishing some of my…

• Becoming a Significant 20something

  Tyler

  19 Jan 2012 | 8:40 am

  In my interaction with older adults I find plenty of condescending remarks toward millennials and more specifically to 20somethings. A lot of it is warranted but some of it is flat out wrong. One of the things I believe is flat out wrong is the perception that 20somethings somehow do not value success and sit around playing video games for half the day while working at a coffee shop for a few hours a week to get free coffee (if this is you, well then you need to read this post). I would say that 20somethings are trying to redefine what success looks like by desiring significance more than…

• Dreaming with Conviction

  Tyler

  17 Jan 2012 | 8:30 am

  This post is part of a series of posts in support of These Numbers Have Faces and their great work to allow young adults in South Africa to dream with their convictions by providing them with an education. Be sure to check out the series on dreaming with conviction they have going on and support them in any way you can. I sense that so many of us go through life in a specific way simply because that’s how it’s supposed to be done. In many parts of the world people have the luxury of just going to college after finishing high school because that’s what people do. It is fairly…

• The Three

  Tyler

  13 Jan 2012 | 8:46 am

  After a bit of a hiatus over late December I’m back with the somewhat weekly installment of three great articles/blogs/videos/etc. As many of you know I posted a link carnival of sorts every week for over two years. For the sake of discussion and only putting out what I see to be high quality content I narrowed it down to three. As always feel free to let me know via email/Twitter/contact page if you have something you’ve seen or read that should be included here. 1. Justin Bieber recently shared about his Christian faith and lack of church attendance. In an interview he said,…

• 

  BubbaSmith.net

• Ask Me Anything 1.27.12

  bubba

  27 Jan 2012 | 4:47 am

  It’s been a while since I’ve done an Ask Me Anything Friday! If you are new to this, ask me any question by filling out the form below, asking me a question on Twitter, Facebook, or Google+ and I will answer it in an upcoming video blog.  

• The Gravy Ladle

  bubba

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:35 am

  “If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don’t have integrity, nothing else matters.” -Harvey MacKay I read this story in Harvey Mackay’s new book, “The Mackay MBA of Selling in the Real World” and  loved it! I had to share it with you: “A mother was invited for dinner at her son Brian’s apartment. During the course of the meal, Brian’s mother couldn’t help but notice how beautiful Brian’s roommate, Jennifer, was. Brian’s mom had long suspected a relationship between Brian and Jennifer. Over the course of the evening, while watching…

• Be Happy All the Time

  bubba

  25 Jan 2012 | 6:12 am

  “Everything doesn’t have to feel good to be God!” -Joyce Meyer When people ask me how I’m doing, I usually say, “I’m on fire!!!” When I say that, people react in a lot of different ways, but the two answers I hear the most are: “I wish I was on fire!” or “You can’t be on fire all the time, tell us how you’re really feeling!” Photo courtesy of Psychologytoday.com Both of those statements bother me! Attitude and happiness is simply a choice. We can’t always choose our circumstances, but we always have 100%…

• Admit it, Quit it, Forget It

  bubba

  24 Jan 2012 | 7:38 am

• Interview with Mike Steidel (Part 2)

  bubba

  24 Jan 2012 | 5:34 am

  This year, I’ve started a new leadership podcast and a newsletter called, “Learning to Lead”. In the podcast, I will be interviewing leaders as well as sharing what I have been learning about leadership. My hope is that through these resources, you will grow both as a person and as a leader. If you would like to subscribe to this podcast through iTunes, click here! In addition to the podcast, I will be sending out a. The newsletter will be published 1-2 times a month with new leadership content not found on my blog, leadership quotes, leadership resources, and interviews with leaders.

• 

  Cory Center for Children's Ministry

• The Importance of Holiday | Part 2

  Kyle Bostock

  27 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am

  As I write this I’m flying at 30,000 ft. headed back to the snowy NorthWest after a great holiday on the west coast of Mexico.  My family and I were incredibly blessed to get to spend two weeks at my Father’s timeshare.  It was an incredible opportunity to unwind from the day-to-day grind of ministry work.  As we head back, while not excited to battle the heavy snow, I am reenergized with a new since of urgency for the ministry and calling that God placed on my life. Holiday is important because it provides and opportunity for us to disconnect and reenergize.  Whether we want…

• For God So Loved…

  rhaslett

  26 Jan 2012 | 7:19 am

  We all know that Valentines is a time to share love and kindness with others.  This year we thought we’d give you a quick Valentine sermon/lesson to help you plan your lessons for elementary kids.  Utilize it however you wish!

• Dealing with Anger: Providing Order

  Jesse

  24 Jan 2012 | 7:03 am

  One of the problems that I faced as a dad I also see from time to time in the classroom – young children who are angry and have problems expressing their anger. My younger son went through what we thought was a “phase” of hitting – we tried many different ways to stop the behavior but what we needed to do was find out the cause of the behavior and address that. Of course, his reasons were mixed but they generally fell into the category of frustration or perceived violations. Scream and Shout by Mindaugas Danys The biggest thing that I learned is that when anger rears…

• Children’s Ministry Ideas: Planning Center

  mguevara

  23 Jan 2012 | 7:35 am

  This post could save you hours every month. Every Sunday School Director, Children’s Pastor, or Christian Education Director has volunteers.  Ministry requires volunteers.  By virtue of having a volunteer team every leader has to create some system to schedule and manage their volunteers.  For years I created an Excel spreadsheet to tackle volunteer scheduling but I quickly ran into problems: If I sent out the schedule before getting input from the team, I ended up having to make adjustments and resending the schedule. If I solicited volunteer feedback ahead of time, creating the…

• Children’s Ministry Ideas: Hootsuite

  Jesse

  17 Jan 2012 | 7:01 am

  I’m going to jump on Matt’s bandwagon for a moment and share a tool with you that I have been trying to put to better use. Many of the parents at my church use Facebook – and, regardless of my personal preference, it’s good to have a presence there as well. But, I don’t have the inclination to spend much time on Facebook and I often forget how useful it can be. That’s where Hootsuite can help. Hootsuite has several levels of support and function, but the base level is free. The free version can support up to 5 “streams” and if you need more you…

• 

  STEVANSHEETS.COM

• People are chipping in to help me get to Swaziland!

  Stevan

  27 Jan 2012 | 3:55 pm

  I just finished these business cards for my sister this week: Sher's business cards for JustEmbrace.org She lovingly made a substantial donation toward my $3,000 I’m needing to raise to be a part of a mission team going to Swaziland, Africa this October! If you didn’t know I was going to Swaziland, check out the details at http://bit.ly/swazistevan. I’ve also recently finished a t-shirt design for another friend, a few more business cards for another friend and am currently finishing a prayer-card for a full-time missionary friend and his family! I’m truly…

• Gift I Didn’t Deserve

  Stevan

  27 Jan 2012 | 3:32 pm

  Back on the 17th, I blogged a quick embedded video of Marc Scibilia’s song, “Ain’t My Home”. I also tweeted the link a few times to try and send my social media circles to my site to enjoy the great new music I had just found. Yup, that's really him.Scott Moore – one of my followers, a former college peer of mine and the Community Life Pastor at First Wesleyan in Tuscaloosa, AL soon messaged me on Twitter asking me what I thought of Scibilia. I told him I was probably his newest fan and that I was excited to hear more from this new-to-me talent. A few…

• Family is Forever

  Stevan

  24 Jan 2012 | 3:08 pm

  Uhm. Wow. Need an “am I an emotional being” check? Watch this 3-minute commercial –

• TV Show – Unchained Reaction has my attention

  Stevan

  24 Jan 2012 | 8:04 am

  Just last week, the Discovery Channel officially announced it’s green-lighting a brand-new show, “Unchained Reaction” – a 6-part show starring two of my small-screen heroes, Jamie Hyneman & Adam Savage. The show revolves around pitting two teams against each other in a Rube Goldberg-style build-off for a period of 5-days. The winning team will be judged by Hyneman and Savage and a special guest-judge for each of the six episodes. Personally, as a huge fan of Mythbusters AND Rube Goldberg machines, this is a no-brainer win-win for me! Discovery’s official…

• October Baby – Every Life is Beautiful

  Stevan

  23 Jan 2012 | 12:46 pm

  One of the most interesting people I follow on Twitter is @GiannaJessen. Her birth-story of being an abortion-survivor is incredible. Recently she linked her followers to a movie coming in March entitled, “October Baby”. Jessen sings a track on the movie’s soundtrack and has a unique connection to the premise and story line of the movie. The movie is sure to stir the pro-life / pro-choice communities – and I think it’s going to be an eye-and-heart opener for many who walk the line between. Movie Description: OCTOBER BABY is the coming of age story of a beautiful…

• 

  Church For Family

• Wholly Holy Part Three: Holy Treats

  Pastor Paul

  24 Jan 2012 | 8:12 pm

  If  it’s holy we should treat it as wholly. Many times we fail to treat people the way God treats them. In this talk we discover what it takes to treat others as wholly. You can download a discussion guide for this talk here.

• Wholly Holy Part One: Holey?

  Pastor Paul

  17 Jan 2012 | 10:36 am

  It’s only holy if it’s wholly. Often our plans are to give God the pieces instead of the whole. We hold back and as a result we live our lives in pieces instead of wholly holy. You can download a discussion guide for this talk here.

• Wholly Holy Part One: Holy What?

  Pastor Paul

  10 Jan 2012 | 6:57 pm

  Wholly What? When it comes to the topic of holiness most of us have been left to hymns and Sunday School lessons. Few people understand that holiness does not mean sinless or perfect; it simply means to be set apart. In this introductory message Pastor Paul Newell explains that Whatever God says is holy – [...]

• 2012 – Losing The Weight

  Pastor Paul

  4 Jan 2012 | 12:06 am

  One of the most common resolutions every New Year is to lose the weight. In this talk Pastors Justin Saunders and Paul Newell share how to lose the weight of our past, present, and future.

• got CHRISTmas? Part Five: Prince of Peace

  Pastor Paul

  27 Dec 2011 | 2:53 pm

  CHRIST Jesus, the Son of God is also our Prince of Peace. He is the Ruler of our hearts, minds and souls. He offers us both peace with God and the peace of God.

• 

  REyouthpastor.com | Home

• Top 5 Board Games That Get The Youth Group Party Started Immediately

  Jeremy Zach

  25 Jan 2012 | 8:51 am

  (Board game pic brought to you by:   All rights reserved by dennoir) I know this post may seem elementary and that youth group is NOT about games.   But I need to share why I had so much success using these 5 board games.  By using these 5 board games you can build instant community and fun in youth group in a matter of minutes. In years past I have had to really work hard at blending different type of student clusters in order to make youth group manageable.  Some student clusters would not talk with other student clusters, so it was very difficult to have a productive time–…

• Students’ Spitefulness On Social Media: How To Stop Students From Hatin’ Online

  Jeremy Zach

  18 Jan 2012 | 10:01 am

  (pic brought to you by:  Miss Blackflag) As a youth worker, one of the nastiest teen bullying episodes I encountered was on facebook.  I knew cyber bullying was happening, but I didn’t know it got so mean, dirty and out of control. I quickly learned:  Students can leverage their social media influence to bully students they don’t like.  And the scary thing is that the cyber bully can easily frame any student by easily manipulating and destroying their online presence in a matter of seconds. Students are more inclined to be really unkind online. So how do we (parents, peers and…

• New Beginnings: Thoughts On Starting A Youth Group From Scratch

  Jeremy Zach

  11 Jan 2012 | 7:32 am

  Disclaimer:  This post has been sitting in my queue for the past 7 months.  I kept rethinking, updating, deleting and adding content, which made this post a little long.  So I am sorry for the lengthiness.   _____________________________________ Starting or sustaining a youth ministry is very unrewarding.  Basically you build and don’t see the fruit and results for a while. I found myself spending a lot of time working ON my youth ministry and not so much IN my youth ministry.  I would prefer to think about youth ministry systems and strategy rather than think about my youth…

• How Young Youth Pastors Can Gain Street Cred With Older Church Leaders

  Jeremy Zach

  21 Dec 2011 | 7:19 am

  (pic of the young lego leader is brought to you by Dunechaser) 1 Timothy 4.12: Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. I have learned that the young youth worker must not only accept but address this gaining-credibility issue. It took me a while to embrace the idea that I am a young leader.  A young youth pastor in the church world will always be critiqued for being “young” and “inexperienced”. Bottom line:  in the church world wisdom, age, maturity…

• What Youth Ministry Cliche Needs To Go Away?

  Jeremy Zach

  6 Dec 2011 | 7:19 am

  Over on the Slant33.com blog Brian Berry, Michael Novelli and I all were asked to answer this question:  What Youth Ministry Cliche Needs To Go Away?  I poured my passion into this post (to read this entire post click here) because the cliche I addressed was a mind shift I had to make early on in my youth ministry career.   In the post:  I argued the one thing that annoys me is when youth pastors think youth ministry is about only ministering to students. So if youth pastors are not supposed to only hang out with students, then what do they do? Why should a church pay for a…

• 

  Kevin Campbell

• 40 Days In The Word Challenge

  25 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am

  NEXT WEEK we start our 40 Days In The Word Challenge at Elevate Church Christianity is personal but is not private.  Love can not be learned in isolation!  We are challenging everyone to get in one of our Life Groups for at least the next six weeks to go through 40 Days In The Word. This is success: "Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only THEN will you prosper and succeed in all you do." - (Joshua 1:8)  You will be challenged to: Read The Word Daily Study the Word weekly in a life group…

• How The Revolution Thrives

  23 Jan 2012 | 5:11 pm

  Here are some highlights from this weekend at Elevate Church: It was our third week in New Year's ReVolution.  We talked about How The Revolution Thrives. The way the revolution thrives is contribute. It is about moving from spiritual consumers to contributors. It's about moving form spectators to participators.  It's about turning an audience into an army! The church isn't a cruise ship but a battleship. How we are going to THRIVE this year: Read Matthew 25:14-30. 1) Focus my time. Our greatest prayer should be - "Lord, remind me how BRIEF my time on earth will be." (Psalm 39:4)…

• Real Life Stories - COME: It's Where The Revolution Begins

  20 Jan 2012 | 1:46 pm

  The revolution begins when you COME.  You can not become a passionate follower of Christ without first coming through the doors.  That's why it excites me to hear these real life stories of people who have come to Elevate Church! How many more out there are just like these who are waiting for an invitation?  BRING THEM!  We make no apology for wanting God's House FULL!  (Luke 14:23) Revolution- How did you come to Elevate? from Elevate Church on Vimeo.

• A HUGE Thank You!

  19 Jan 2012 | 2:58 pm

  You do not accomplish anything significant alone.  Of all the things I have learned in three years, developing a deep attitude of gratitude is certainly near the top of the list.  We simply refuse to take this for granted!  God has been too good and people have been too gracious.  Also, gratefulness for what God has done sets you up to receive greater blessings in the future.  I am certainly grateful for what God has done and completely believe God is about to do even greater things! The past three years at Elevate Church would not be possible first and foremost were…

• Highlight Video: Year 3 at Elevate Church

  18 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am

  I choke up every time I watch this video.  I am SO grateful for what the Lord has done this past year! Also, every time I watch this video it excites me for this year. Why? God's past faithfulness is the best future predictor of what He is going to do! Elevate 2011 Year In Review from Elevate Church on Vimeo.

• 

  Worlds of Wow Blog

• Meet the Team: Kirk Lunsford, Artist

  17 Jan 2012 | 9:18 am

  Who has a video game design background and creates insanely cool designs for churches? Why, Kirk Lunsford, of course! He's one of our team members here at Worlds of Wow after coming to us from Colorado.Here's some interesting insight about Kirk: FAVORITEBook: Isaac Asimov Foundation Series Movie: LOTR trilogy, anything Pixar Musical Artist: Right now I really like to listen to Cage The Elephant Recreational Activities/Hobbies: Snowboarding, Basketball, Drawing and Painting, Photography, Hiking, Gaming Sports Team: Broncos, Mavericks LEAST…

• 12 Jan 2012 | 5:00 pm

  12 Jan 2012 | 5:00 pm

  WIN 2 TICKETSTO THE ORANGE CONFERENCEWorlds of Wow is all about fun, so we're hosting a Facebook contest and giving away two tickets (a $638 value!) to The Orange Conference! This year's conference theme is "GAME CHANGERS", so our contest is for your children's ministry to show or tell us about the GAME CHANGER that will rock their ministry in 2012.2 WAYS TO PLAY This contest is only on our Facebook Fan Page, so here's how it works: 1) Post on the Wall of our Worlds of Wow Facebook page what GAME CHANGER your children's ministry team will be doing in 2012!OR2) Share a photo on our Worlds…

• Meet the Team: Anthony Coppedge, Director of Business Development

  9 Jan 2012 | 4:53 pm

  Anthony's been with Worlds of Wow since August of 2010 and has been on staff at three mega churches, worked in the Audio/Video industry and consulted with hundreds of churches. Anthony handles the business development for our company, which basically means he's responsible for sales & marketing. He's married to Babs and has four children, including three teenagers. This also means he's losing his hair more quickly than usual.Anthony shared his answers to our fun questions with us:FAVORITEBook: The Hitchhiker's Guide to the GalaxyMovie: The MatrixMusical…

• Meet the Team: Sheila Pickard, Pre-Production Manager

  5 Jan 2012 | 10:47 am

  Sheila is one of the most like-able people you'll ever meet! She is a diligent, patient and sincere person who  has a smile on her face and a can-do attitude. We love having Sheila as part of our team!These are Sheila's answers to our fun questions:FAVORITEBook: The ShackMovie: The Blind Side Musical Artist: United Pursuit Band Recreational Activities/Hobbies: Ministry school, playing guitar and other instruments, artwork, hanging out with friends, etc.Sports Team: The Hokies!!LEAST FAVORITEFood: Fish Season: Winter - burrrrrr Sports Team:I just don't watch teams I…

• Getting To Know Us: Martin Steele, Design Manager for Play Attractions

  3 Jan 2012 | 9:11 am

  Martin is our Design Manager for our play attractions. Some people don't know that Worlds of Wow is the only church theming company that also includes fun play elements like soft foam play for toddlers and soft-contained play units (you can see examples of these here on our website). Well, we do and Martin is the creative guru who designs them!Here are some interesting tidbits about Martin:FAVORITEBook: Mostly cook books but no favoriteMovie:  Right now the movie "Fair Game"Musical Artist:  Anyone before rapRecreational Activities/Hobbies:  Triathlon (but I am…

• 

  Digital Evangelism Issues

• War Horse is a powerful story of redemption

  admin

  26 Jan 2012 | 9:11 am

  Please share widely: Spielberg’s latest movie is getting rave reviews. And rightly so. The popular children’s book by Michael Morpurgo has been faithfully adapted: read story of the film and its making. (Trailer below.) And there are many redemptive echoes embedded in it. Here are a few (spoiler warnings): Joey the horse is sold into, essentially, slavery on the Western Front, for the biblically-resonant 30 currency units (Zechariah 11:12-13), having already been bought – extravagantly – for that price by Devon farmer Ted. This brings huge pain to the farmer’s…

• 8-year-old Zoe on guitar: raw musical talent

  admin

  24 Jan 2012 | 9:58 am

  Please share widely: Here’s some sheer musical talent to honor. And yes, Zoe Thomson is only 8. Her Stratosphere guitar is likely older than her. Watch on YouTube: Music is an integral part every culture, throughout history and across continents. We are hard-wired to communicate through music. The study of music in different cultures is called ethnomusicology. Using music in order to better communicate the good news in a cross-cultural mission setting is becoming increasingly understood. Often, culturally-appropriate music can be a key to unlock the message. Check these…

• The Iron Lady study resources

  admin

  13 Jan 2012 | 11:24 am

  Please share widely: We’ve seen a crop of good movies already this year – Hugo, War Horse, The Artist, and The Iron Lady. Culturewatch team Damaris has produced a range of free discussion materials about life issues (not political issues) raised by the film: Watch here Check also their summary article Fading Dreams. Share & re-use . . . Please also share this post on Facebook, Twitter and Google +1 using the one-click links below. You can also automatically syndicate our blog posts to your Facebook Wall (and/or your Twitter stream) in three easy steps. You are welcome to use…

• 2012 – digital opportunities in the year ahead

  admin

  9 Jan 2012 | 9:12 am

  Please share widely: Digital technology years seem to run seven times faster than real time, like dog lives. What developments may be significant for us in 2012? The three-fold cord of mobile phones, social networking and video shorts will surely continue to grow in significance. India will have 200 million new mobile accounts during the year, and release the $50 Tablet for Schools. A 4-week distance-learning course in mobile ministry starts this week – there is still time to sign up. Also still open for booking: the 8-11 Feb ICCM conference in Netherlands. April 29 will be Internet…

• Relationships and listening: key to conversion

  admin

  6 Jan 2012 | 9:23 am

  Please share widely: To paraphrase the 1990′s election slogan (in response to the unspoken question “What’s the priority?”), we might respond to “What’s the key to effective evangelism?” with the answer: “It’s the relationships, silly.” Most lasting conversions are the result of an ongoing relationship with one or more believers (see research study). And around 50% of people start their spiritual journey at least in part due to a serious life problem, such as relationship problems, illness/bereavement or debt. Any online outreach…

• 

  Brad Lomenick

• A great (or not so) moment at Catalyst

  bradlomenick

  27 Jan 2012 | 11:32 am

  Ken Coleman and I discussed this on the most recent Catalyst podcast, and I told everyone in podcast land I would share the moment here on the blog, so here you go. My singing moment with the Gospel quartet at Catalyst back in 2009. We had planned to have Reggie Joiner sing with this group, but without my knowledge, Lanny Donoho and Reggie and Jeff Shinabarger turned the tables and surprised me by asking (actually forcing) me to sing with the group. But as many of you know, if I have a chance to sing in public, regardless of what song or genre of music, I’m in! Enjoy my One Shining…

• Andy Stanley and Craig Groeschel together in Atlanta

  bradlomenick

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:49 am

  Catalyst One Day is coming to Atlanta! Make plans now to attend this great day of leadership training on Monday, March 26, at North Point Community Church. Register TODAY to get the best rates on tickets. Join Andy Stanley and Craig Groeschel for a one day leadership event focused on the topic of Creating Healthy Organizational Culture. This practical leadership experience includes 4 sessions of content, Q and A, dynamic music, and a full day of practical insight from two of the principal voices on leadership in the Church today. Whether you are a pastor, non profit leader, business…

• Leadership Lessons from Nehemiah

  bradlomenick

  25 Jan 2012 | 7:19 am

  One of my favorite Old Testament leaders is Nehemiah. He was a government worker in the employment of a foreign king. A high ranking worker no doubt. A leader. A cupbearer to the King. Trusted and respected. Then he became a building contractor, called in to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Through the story of the Old Testament book, we can discover a few of the leadership qualities that he possessed. 1. Compassion- when learning of the condition of the wall and of his people, Nehemiah wept. 2. Conviction- he understood that loyalty to his country and to his people in Jerusalem was…

• Highlights from my interview with Chris Tomlin

  bradlomenick

  23 Jan 2012 | 7:36 pm

  Back in the summer I sat down with my friend Chris Tomlin, singer, songwriter, worship leader and pastor at Passion City Church. You can listen to that interview here or better yet, download from iTunes for Free.  Here are some highlights from the interview with Chris, as captured by Brian Dodd originally in this post he did. “We’re trying to navigate who’s in our church…Who’s at the core.” “The church is not a physical building. The church is people.” “It’s (leading worship) serious business because you’re dealing with people.” “I’m trying to write the…

• End of Week Leadership thoughts

  bradlomenick

  20 Jan 2012 | 7:28 pm

  It’s cold and rainy in Atlanta on this Friday in January… I wish I was playing golf on the coast! But in the meantime, here are some Random Leadership Thoughts as we wrap up the week: - The Global Church is vibrant, colorful and alive. As a leader, you need to see it up close outside of the US to gain a proper perspective. - Collaboration is on the rise. Especially in Churches and non-profit ministries. More and more leaders working together, sharing buildings, merging their services, sharing creative ideas, video sharing, pastors teaching in other churches, etc. - Don’t…

• 

  Scribblage

• Creative Writing Activity

  admin

  25 Jan 2012 | 2:49 pm

  Freelance Writing Jobs Online And Custom Publishers   by Sylvia Silvermaster Freelance writing is a profession should choose their creative expression. Express their creativity and talent in the world in the form of an independent creative writing, Technical Writing and business Writing Online and offline. Now freelance writing covers reporting, editing, writing, editing, computer programming, graphic design, etc. Below are some of the tips to create a more productive freelance writing career: 1. Keep a daily notebook specifically for your freelance writing work, which may feel odd at…

• 

  MOVING FORWARD - pastor mike landry

• Thinking Comes First…But Be Careful What You Think

  20 Jan 2012 | 4:21 pm

               My wife and I recently went on a date and saw the movie, “The Iron Lady.”  It was an excellent biographical portrayal of Great Britain’s former Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher.  Her determination, decisiveness, and common sense gave her the edge she needed to ultimately become the first woman Prime Minister of Great Britain.  The movie is definitely worth seeing and there were a number of quotes worth remembering.  Let me tell you what my favorite Thatcher quote was.   "Watch your thoughts for they…

• 2012 - Time To Go Through The Door

  16 Jan 2012 | 9:11 pm

  The beginning of a new year invigorates me.  I like it because it has the aroma of a fresh start.  It prompts me to refocus, retool, rejuvenate, and return to doing what's most important.  It's not so much a time for resolutions as it is a time for repositioning and realigning.  Launching into 2012 with a renewed purpose will require clear navigational coordinates.  Repositioning and realigning means we must remember our calling from God and make sure our life's rudder is pointing us in that direction.And just exactly what direction is that?  Jesus said His was…

• Three Crosses

  3 Apr 2010 | 11:47 am

              “And it was the third hour when they crucified him…and with him they crucified two robbers, one on his right and one on his left.”  Mark 15:25, 27  ESV            There were three crosses that day.  Jesus had been crucified between two thieves.  Two of the three were guilty and deserved judgment.  One was innocent and chose to die for the guilty.            It’s interesting how the two thieves reacted to…

• Our Sin Nature Demands a Savior

  4 Mar 2010 | 8:16 am

  Today we visited 9th Fort in Kaunas, Lithuania.  This was one of many Jewish extermination camps during World War II.  Over 50,000 people were killed.  As we walked through the fort and saw where the atrocities were committed I couldn't help but think of how awful and depraved the human heart had to be to do such things.  The Bible does say that the heart is "deceitful and desperately wicked."With a heart condition like that we need much more than forgiveness; we need redemption.  Our sin nature demands a Savior.  God's holy and righteous nature can't just let…

• A Great Discovery in Lithuania

  3 Mar 2010 | 11:56 am

  As you can see from the picture, I've found a McDonalds!  Ah yes...my internal navigational system can smell out a McDonalds anywhere.  I feel like I'm back home again.  :-)Seriously, we're having a great time in the city of Kaunas, Lithuania.  We've been able to do some prayer walking as well as get to know a few of the locals.  I met a young lady from this city who comes to N.J. to visit her mom every summer.  When she found out I was a pastor from the US she wanted to know when and where the Bible Study would be here in town.  She's planning to come…

• 

  Glocalnet Blog

• PEOPLE DON’T CHANGE THE WORLD - THE WORLD CHANGES PEOPLE

  Bob Roberts Jr.

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:41 am

  People don’t change the world, the world changes people. I know that sounds like heresy from an evangelical, but it’s true. There are those few “world changers” that seize moments, but it isn’t because they thought it up, it’s because the environment was created that allowed them to see it first and then do something about it. Paul didn’t come up with an idea to change the world with the Gospel. It came from Jesus. His first encounter with Christians is to stomp them out. He’s traveling and persecuting the church around the Middle East. These Christians have spread out because…

• SPECIAL SEMINAR BY ANDY WOOD OF SOUTH BAY CHURCH

  Bob Roberts Jr.

  26 Jan 2012 | 5:47 am

  Andy Wood of newly started South Bay Church in the Silicon Valley shot me an email on a training that he’s doing for church planters and pastors in the U.S.  I’ve known Andy since he planted his first church in Arlington and have kept up with where he is now.  I’ve enjoyed watching him grow and develop and do some really awesome stuff.  Thursday, Feb. 2 from 10:00-11a PST. He will be sharing my top 10 leadership lessons from the last year. If you know any planters who could benefit could you help me spread the word. Go to…

• 7 Decisions for Success by Andy Andrews

  Bob Roberts Jr.

  21 Jan 2012 | 4:27 pm

  EXCERPTS FROM THE TRAVELER’S GIFT BY ANDY ANDREWS The Seven Decisions for Success: THE BUCK STOPS HERE: President Harry Truman …outside influences are not responsible for where you are mentally, physically spiritually, emotionally, or financially.  You have chosen the pathway to your present destination.  The responsibility for your situation is yours. I am where I am today because of decisions I have made.  My decisions have always been governed by my thinking.  Today I will begin the process of changing where I am by changing the way I think. Until a person takes…

• ARAB NEWS - KING’S INTERFAITH INITIATiVE COMMENDED:

  Bob Roberts Jr.

  20 Jan 2012 | 10:20 am

  Article from Arab News. By ALI BLUWI & ABDUL HANNAN TAGO | ARAB NEWS Published: Jan 17, 2012 01:37 Updated: Jan 18, 2012 14:29 RIYADH: King Abdullah’s interfaith dialogue center is a good example of Saudi Arabia sharing global responsibility and demonstrates the Kingdom is playing a major role in promoting understanding among different faiths, according to noted American interfaith advocate Bob Robert in an exclusive interview with Arab News. Robert is an international speaker and thinker actively involved in transforming people and communities around the world. He renders humanitarian…

• PRINCE TURKI-AL-FAISAL:  GLOBAL LEADERSHIP THAT BUILDS THE WORLD

  Bob Roberts Jr.

  18 Jan 2012 | 7:48 am

  I’ve been around a lot of leaders in a lot of different fields like business, government, and religion.  I’ve been around very, very few leaders like Prince Turki-Al-Faisal.  He is an unusually rare man.  If we had 1,000 leaders like him globally our world would be a safer, healthier, and more humane place.  Don’t hear me saying he’s Jesus – like anyone else he has his faults.  Don’t hear me saying I agree with him on everything.  Hear me saying he is a man of deep character mixed with courageous action, but there are certain things about him that set…

• 

  TeamRCIA

• RCIA with teens: who’s in charge?

  Nick

  27 Jan 2012 | 10:39 am

  Loading…

• Four ways to keep your children’s RCIA catechesis from boring your kids to tears

  Rita Burns Senseman

  17 Jan 2012 | 11:33 am

  When twelve-year-old Connor started nodding off in our children’s RCIA session, I knew it was time for me to stop talking and for everyone else to get up and move. As a catechist in children’s RCIA, I sometimes have to resist the urge to talk too much. No matter how brilliant our RCIA session may be, talking too much can bore our children to tears! Here are four ways keep boredom at bay. Get up and move One of my favorite ways, and the kids’ favorite ways, to keep the session moving along is to actually get up and move. I like to call them “field trips.” We go and visit and a…

• 6 essential rules for communicating a new RCIA vision

  Nick

  2 Jan 2012 | 12:16 am

  Without looking it up, can you tell me what your parish mission statement is? If you can, can all the members of the parish council? And what about the RCIA team? And if they can, can the parents whose children are in the school or religious education process tell me? What about the neophytes in your parish? Do you know what your parish mission is? In most parishes, hardly anyone can say clearly what the parish mission is. In some cases, they’ve never heard it stated. In other parishes, it appears on the cover of every Sunday bulletin and is sometimes read aloud at Mass. And still people…

• Get an RCIA vision for your parish (angelic visitation optional)

  Nick

  28 Dec 2011 | 1:37 pm

  Your parish is about to change. Here’s why. This Sunday, look around at the people in the pews. Then estimate what percentage of those people will be retired in ten years. Now look for the 20- and 30-somethings. Are there enough of them present to fill the shoes of those who will be retiring? Trends that will change RCIA ministry Here is another indicator of change. How many Masses in Spanish did your parish have ten years ago? How many does it have now? How many will it have ten years from now? And one more trend. Ten years ago, how many people in your parish had a Facebook account? How…

• Make the shift from “RCIA team” to “coalition for change”

  Nick

  21 Dec 2011 | 12:53 pm

  In 1983, I interviewed for my first job as a parish liturgist. The silver-haired pastor sat behind an imposing desk in his wood-paneled office. I sat on the other side of the desk in one of those chairs that you sink into and that makes it impossible for you to sit up straight. At one point, he looked down at me and said, “We don’t operate as a team here. I’m the boss, and my word is final.” “Team ministry” was often neither Well, that was just fine with me! After a decade of high-school and college youth ministry, I was fed up with “team ministry.” While on paper, the idea of…

• 

  Brandon A. Cox

• Fellow Church Planters, Check Out Velocity 2012

  brandon

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:39 am

  Fellow Church Planters, Check Out Velocity 2012 is a post from Brandon A. Cox.I remember Shawn Lovejoy telling the story of how, when they had their opening service at Mountain Lake Church, he totally forgot to take up the offering, and they couldn’t meet the following two weeks because of ice. I love guys that are real who pour themselves into others, and that’s Shawn. He and his team host an annual conference for church planters and Angie and I have officially purchased plane tickets – so there’s no turning back! If you’re a church planter or a church planting…

• Bobby Minor’s Coaching Network and Truly Mutual Church Planting Partnership

  brandon

  25 Jan 2012 | 6:49 am

  Bobby Minor’s Coaching Network and Truly Mutual Church Planting Partnership is a post from Brandon A. Cox.There are four elements necessary for a church planting movement to succeed: assessment of potential planters, ongoing training, partnership with existing churches, and personal coaching. Bobby Minor has a unique idea for creating a truly mutual partnership between his church plant and existing leaders, while also providing coaching from some of the nation’s leading church leadership thinkers. Bobby is planting Mosaic Church in Durham, North Carolina, a new campus of Mosaic…

• The New and Improved Pastors.com

  brandon

  24 Jan 2012 | 9:00 pm

  The New and Improved Pastors.com is a post from Brandon A. Cox. I love Pastors! And I love serving and connecting with Pastors through the greatest website in the web wide world for them – Pastors.com. In January of 2010, I was taken aback by a phone call from David Chrzan, Chief of Staff at Saddleback Church in southern California. We talked for an hour about blogging, online publishing, pastoral ministry, WordPress, and many other related topics. Then he invited me to attend Radicalis, Saddleback’s leadership conference, and I gladly agreed. That was the beginning of a pretty…

• What Does Revival Look Like in 2012?

  brandon

  21 Jan 2012 | 2:27 pm

  What Does Revival Look Like in 2012? is a post from Brandon A. Cox.Back in the olden days (the mid-1990′s) I preached a few times at a small church (averaging 12 each Sunday) in eastern Arkansas. They had a rotation system that determined who would take the visiting speaker home for lunch, and one day my lot fell to two elderly ladies who made awesome roast beef! As I sat in their living room visiting after lunch, they brought out some photo albums from the church’s history. I was amazed to see crowds of people stuffed so tight into the little white clapboard building that they…

• Why Church Planting?

  brandon

  11 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  Why Church Planting? is a post from Brandon A. Cox.Obviously, I’m passionate about church planting. On the blog of the Acts 29 Network is a great article that echoes my heart about the matter. It’s an adaptation of a writing by Tim Keller, and it really reflects the reason why we’re planning on planting out of Grace Hills as soon as possible. The vigorous, continual planting of new congregations is the single most crucial strategy for 1) the numerical growth of the Body of Christ in any city, and 2) the continual corporate renewal and revival of the existing churches in a…

• 

  Biblical Preaching

• Saturday Short Thought: Concluding Chronicles and Biblical Theology

  Peter Mead

  28 Jan 2012 | 12:40 am

  Over the past three weeks I have been preaching a series in 2Chronicles 26-36, which is effectively the end of the Hebrew canon (in the typical Jewish ordering of books), and the conclusion of the backwards looking summary of the Old Testament.  Because my wife is expecting any day, I am uncertain of being able to preach tomorrow, and so made sure I finished the series last week.  But I now have (potentially) another two messages in the series tomorrow since the baby seems to be comfortable where it is. This leaves me in the nice position of being finished with the series, yet not finished.

• Be Quick to Look, Slow to Decide

  Peter Mead

  27 Jan 2012 | 12:10 am

  This week we began another season of Cor Deo – a small group of people longing to know God more and grow closer to Him.  We had some great discussions, studied some wonderful passages and enjoyed getting to know each other.  One discussion moment was the highlight of the week for me.  A passage was raised and considered.  The more we looked at it, the more it opened up for us. Here’s the thing.  If we had looked at just the particular verse, even a good few minutes of studying it wouldn’t have been enough.  We had to look at the surrounding context.  By the end of our…

• Stuck in the Mud

  Peter Mead

  25 Jan 2012 | 11:37 pm

  Some sermons seem to get stuck. Some that I preach.  Some that others preach.  The sermon is moving along well, perhaps moving at a decent pace through a text, engaging and interesting, then suddenly, the sermon seems to go into thick mud.  Suddenly the momentum is lost and the experience for preacher and listener alike changes significantly. Why does this happen?  The message is following the standard guidelines for sermons.  The text is being explained, the relevance is being emphasized, illustrative material is helping listeners see the message clearly, etc.  But momentum drains away…

• Why I’m Not Rushing to Two-Person Preaching – Part 2

  Peter Mead

  25 Jan 2012 | 12:28 am

  If our churches follow cultural trends, which they tend to, does this mean we are facing the prospect of “sanctified banter preaching?” After all, it seems like everywhere we look in the media, there are now two presenters, two DJ’s, two hosts. So do we have to consider having two preachers simul-preaching? I suspect not… I remember sitting at a big Christian convention where three speakers rotated through the morning session in soundbites. The blessing of hearing one was only frustrated by the ranting of another, it felt bitty and unprepared. But what if it were done…

• Why I Am Not Rushing to Two-Person Preaching

  Peter Mead

  24 Jan 2012 | 12:33 am

  Whether we admit it or not, our churches are shaped by our culture.  When overhead projectors became the thing in business meetings, so suddenly preachers wondered how Wesley had survived without acetates.  Then preachers pondered the problems Spurgeon must have faced without powerpoint and projectors. As well as technological influence, there are others too.  How regularly do we hear and see another “study” indicating people have shockingly short attention spans so we should keep our messages to less than 35 seconds?  It’s amazing how these “studies” seem to selectively focus…

• 

  samluce.com

• Best Attendance

  samluce

  27 Jan 2012 | 7:40 am

  Youth pastors of America I want to tell you a little bit about my newest sponsor, Best Attendance. Best Attendance is a new website allowing youth leaders to take attendance, share event calendars, communicate with youth, and update membership rosters online. The software helps you increase accountability in your group by providing graphical, customizable attendance reports that help you identify any members at risk of falling through the cracks. There are several ways of taking attendance, including using a barcode reader, printing sign-in forms, or letting members sign in on a computer. The…

• Guerrilla Parenting: Teach your kids that connections are more important than commitment

  samluce

  26 Jan 2012 | 8:22 am

  Here is the first post talking about how to ensure your kids will end up on “The Bachelor”  If you want to ensure your kids will be on the “The Bachelor” 1. Never show your daughter physical affection. 2. Teach your kids that connections are more important than commitment. 3. Teach your kids there is no consequences for their behavior. 4. Give your kids whatever they want. 5. Teach your kids that their self-worth is tied to peoples acceptance of them. The next thing ever parent must do to ensure that their kids will end up on “The Bachelor” is teach them that…

• Guerrilla Parenting: Never show your daughter physical affection.

  samluce

  25 Jan 2012 | 10:47 am

  Here is the first post talking about how to ensure your kids will end up on “The Bachelor”  If you want to ensure your kids will be on the “The Bachelor” 1. Never show your daughter physical affection. 2. Teach your kids that connections are more important than commitment. 3. Teach your kids there is no consequences for their behavior. 4. Give your kids whatever they want. 5. Teach your kids that their self-worth is tied to peoples acceptance of them. One of the biggest problems in our country is fatherlessness. Now am I advocating that every girl that comes from a…

• Guerrilla Parenting: How to ensure your kids will be on “The Bachelor”

  samluce

  25 Jan 2012 | 6:28 am

  A while back I got hooked for one season of The Bachelor I watched one whole season. That is about 20 hours of my life I’ll never get back. As I was watching the final episode. This thought came to me and I tweeted it “If any of my kids ever appear on the “The Bachelor” then I will have failed as a parent” I thought it would be fun to do a few posts that will help you ensure your kids will be on “The Bachelor.”  I will list them here and break them down over the next few days. If you want to ensure your kids will be on the “The Bachelor”…

• Are you a curious leader or a fearful leader?

  samluce

  23 Jan 2012 | 6:41 am

  I am reading a book about leading teams this chapter on fear vs. curiosity got me thinking about how I lead and the importance of staying curious as a leader. We often coach two very different kinds of leaders. The first is not curious and, I would say, is often driven by fear. Whenever observations and feedback are given, the uncurious leader responds with defensiveness and rationalizations. With these leaders there are no questions, only hurt silence, quiet passivity, or statements designed to protect themselves. The second type of leader is curious. These leaders respond from a position of…

• 

  Godvertiser.com

• How a Perfectly Timed Press Release Can Bring Tons of Exposure To Your Non-Profit Campaign

  Kenny Jahng

  23 Jan 2012 | 9:00 am

  Here’s an excerpt from a press release I sent out today for a project I’m working on right now — The Adoption Journey Project (www.adoptionjourney.org) There’s two factors of this example I’d like to highlight.  But first, here’s the content about the campaign first: This year’s football fans gathering at various watch parties will have access to one Super Bowl coach’s personal thoughts during halftime. A free downloadable video kit is available to local game watching party organizers which features Super Bowl winning coach Tony Dungy and his wife…

• First Time Visitor Gift Bag Ideas

  Kenny Jahng

  10 Jan 2012 | 9:11 pm

  Your church marketing worked. New people that have never been to your church before walk through the doors.  So what do you do?   Do you accost them and demand they fill out the “visitor card” so you can stalk them or nag them like a telemarketer?  Do you have a committee that instantly has a dozen people “friend” them on Facebook out of the blue?  Do you ask them to stand-up in front of everyone during service and make them stand out literally like a sore thumb with the intention of making them feel “welcome”? One tactic that is widespread is the first…

• Finding More, Raising More, Sustaining More: Part 3

  Kenny Jahng

  8 Jan 2012 | 4:55 am

  This is the third in a series of guest posts by Howard Freeman – Founder and Principal of Zoey Creative Development, a charitable giving consultancy in NYC serving both organizations and also individual philanthropists. He is also the author of the upcoming book on online giving called, ‘Making A Difference 2.0’ (Skyhorse Publishing, May 2012) and can be reached at howard@zoeycreativedevelopment.com   GARDENING IS ACTUALLY THE WORLD’S OLDEST PROFESSION During the last two segments, we’ve looked at finding more money and raising more money. This week, we look at tending to what…

• Finding More, Raising More, Sustaining More [Part 2]

  Kenny Jahng

  1 Jan 2012 | 12:06 pm

  This is the second in a series of guest posts by Howard Freeman – Founder and Principal of Zoey Creative Development, a charitable giving consultancy in NYC serving both organizations and also individual philanthropists. He is also the author of the upcoming book on online giving called, ‘Making A Difference 2.0’ (Skyhorse Publishing, May 2012) and can be reached at howard@zoeycreativedevelopment.com   GIVE TO GET Last time we looked at how to find more money. Christian organizations should avail themselves of select professional tools like prospect research, because fundraising…

• Christmas is Virtually Here

  Kenny Jahng

  21 Dec 2011 | 9:22 am

  We’re in the 11th hour before Christmas Eve services here at Liquid Church and our Church Online team is totally pumped about our first ever Christmas Virtual Choir that we’re pulling together. What started as an interesting idea to allow our Church Online community to participate in our church-wide services, has become a great tool to talk about Christmas at church — and invite family and friends to one of the 6 services being held on Saturday at our campuses as well as 2 services for Church Online. Since there is some novelty in a webcam- or “YouTube Christmas…

• 

  Children's Ministry Online

• Talking leadership in Dallas-Fort Worth

  Kenny

  27 Jan 2012 | 3:48 pm

  Next Thursday I’m heading up to Dallas-Forth Worth for a day to connect with Children’s Pastors and leaders from several large ministries. I’m really excited to partner with Greg Baird and speak, lead some conversations and learn from others on the subject of leadership within the context of leading in large churches. The brains behind Worlds of Wow have put together a unique event at Gateway Church in Southlake, TX and I’m pretty pumped. It’s not too often when you’re in a room with other leaders who all lead at the same capacity or greater than you.

• Quickly gathering contact information

  Kenny

  26 Jan 2012 | 12:52 pm

  Last night I had the opportunity to speak to the High School group here at Gateway. It was my second time ever to speak to High School students, my first time in about 9 years. It went well, despite my apprehension speaking to High School students. However, as I’ve been very involved in our student ministry this past year, I’ve been concerned about the lack of information that we have on our students. Last year as we needed to quickly promote our student ministry camp, I found that we literally had no contact information for our High School students. Since most of their parents…

• Make it easy for parents to win!

  Kenny

  25 Jan 2012 | 12:42 pm

  I think my last big take-away from the Orange Tour was this little concept. Make it easy for parents to win! In Think Orange, Reggie describes the four levels of parenting. Aware – These are parents who may be outside your church. Studies have shown that most parents are aware that the moral and even spiritual development of a child is their responsibility. Involved – These are parents who are in our churches. They’re around, maybe following Christ, but they’re not really doing anything intentional with their kids. Engaged – These are parents who…

• New Kidmin book coming in 2012

  Kenny

  24 Jan 2012 | 2:14 pm

  I have to say that I’m really excited about a new book coming out in a few months. Really excited! Yes, I did help write the book. But that’s not why I’m so excited. I’m excited because I believe that it’s a book that is going to impact a lot of people in Kidmin. Shoot, it might impact a lot of people in student ministry and other ministries as well. Why? Because I feel that it approaches the nitty gritty issues that every pastor/minister deals with… the tension they live in on a daily basis and it offers hope. The book is written in a very personal way…

• We are stewards of timeless truths

  Kenny

  24 Jan 2012 | 10:10 am

  On more than one occasion, I heard Reggie say this line last week at the Orange Tour. We are stewards of timeless truths. What I think is interesting is that I often hear people complain about Orange curriculum Usually I hear people complaining from the point of view that there isn’t enough Bible in it. The funny thing is that I have people on my own staff who at times complain that the curriculum is too church. Honestly, there’s no such thing as a perfect curriculum and that alone isn’t reason enough to go out and start writing your own. Curriculum was made to be…

• 

  RELEVANT Magazine

• Why I Am Not Joe Paterno

  26 Jan 2012 | 11:00 pm

  EDITOR'S NOTE: Earlier this week, Joe Paterno passed away from lung cancer. His death added a new dimension to the controversy that has surrounded Penn State and the charges against former assistant coach Jerry Sandusky. Many wondered, what will be Paterno's legacy: as the winningest college football coach in history or as an accomplice to a child sex-abuse scandal? RELEVANT posted an op/ed column by Shaun King addressing this question. King's stance was that, on some level, "we are all Joe Paterno"—that with the horrors of rape and abuse taking place all around the world, many of…

• Is There a Place for Creative Christians?

  25 Jan 2012 | 8:28 am

  Restoring the relationship between faith and art. When people describe the Church, "creative" probably isn't the first word that comes to mind. This sad truth isn't the result of a lack of creative Christians, but rather, Christians who don't know what to do with their creativity. Many believers struggle to balance their art and their faith. Some think that to be a truly successful poet, painter, musician or producer, their work must be held separate from their faith. Others may believe unless their song, design, book or film is not littered with overt spirituality, it cannot…

• We Are All Joe Paterno

  23 Jan 2012 | 3:50 pm

  Joe Paterno died yesterday morning. For 50 years, he was a god of college football; he may be the best college football coach of all time. While coaching, he not only won more games than anybody, but his Penn State team produced 250 NFL players, went undefeated five times, finished in the top 25 over 35 times and won two national championships. He did all of this while producing a score of academic all-Americans and having one of the highest graduation rates of any football programs in the country—certainly better than any program that was actually good at football. In this way, none…

• Confessions of a Catholic Christian

  19 Jan 2012 | 3:19 pm

  From behind a hand-carved, wooden podium at the front of a colorful classroom, my fifth-grade teacher spoke. The students listened quietly, fascinated by her lesson: how to get to heaven. "I used to be Catholic," my teacher said. "But it’s a lot harder for Catholics to get to heaven than it is for Protestants." She told us about the Sinner's Prayer and how awful it is to confess sins to a priest, how questionable the Catholic mass is and how rarely the Gospel is preached in Catholic churches. While she suggested we steer clear of Catholics and their church, my heart…

• What Tim Tebow Isn't

  18 Jan 2012 | 12:25 pm

  First of all, let’s get something straight. Despite what you may have heard, Tim Tebow is not the Messiah. I may not be qualified to interpret signs from God, but I’m fairly confident that, when the Denver Broncos quarterback (who was known for writing “John 3:16” in his eye black before games) passed for 316 yards in the Broncos’ playoff win over the Steelers, it wasn’t God’s way of affirming Tebow as the “chosen one.” Another thing Tim Tebow isn’t: the best quarterback in the NFL. Tebow is far from it, actually. As evidenced in the Broncos’ humiliating 45-10 loss to…

• 

  Managing Your Church

• How to Prepare W-2s for Church Employees, Including Ministers

  25 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am

  Last-minute help for completing these important forms.

• Penalties Double for Late 1099s

  23 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am

  Churches should note upcoming February 29 deadline.

• Part 2: When Raises Aren’t Possible for Church Staff

  19 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am

  Three more ways churches can reward employees.

• More Stats on Electronic Giving Patterns

  17 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am

  PricewaterhouseCoopers, Pew reports underscore changing preferences.

• Part 1: When Raises Aren’t Possible for Church Staff

  12 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am

  One workplace expert offers several ways to honor employees.

• 

  Branded With Love

• Broken Down Cars, Dogs Almost Ran Over, And Stop Thinking Someone Else Will- You’re The Someone Else. And People Are Watching

  Jason

  27 Jan 2012 | 9:22 am

  I had just dropped off my girls at school. It’s my day off. All I was thinking was, “My bed is waiting! Ahhhhhhhh!” I turned the corner, and… Traffic. At. A. Stand. Still. Ugh. Don’t these people know my day off is freakin’ important?! Then I saw it. A broken down car with the lights blinking. People flying by her. Not stopping to help. Honestly, I debated it in my head. “Help this person out, or maybe someone else will.” “Wait, I am not that guy. Quit being a selfish bastard jerk.” (my inner dialogue censors itself sometimes) So, I…

• Love > Hate.

  Jason

  23 Jan 2012 | 9:50 am

    Unless you live under a rock, you’ve probably seen the “Why I Hate Religion, But Love Jesus” video circling YouTube (At least 16+ million have and continues to climb). Well, it stirred all kinds of controversy about whether or not it’s okay to hate religion and still love Jesus. Jay Bakker hates religion, Mark Driscoll hates it, Andy Stanley encourages you to lose it, so does R.E.M.  It’s interesting. There are plenty of things done in the name of “religion” that are hurtful. I’ve even said “…it’s not about rules and…

• Don’t Regret Anything. Ever. No Matter What.

  Jason

  12 Jan 2012 | 9:41 am

    Over the past few weeks there has been a flurry of people posting photos like these, or catchy little meme photos with the saying, “Never regret anything, because at one time it was exactly what you wanted.” In junior high I stole things. In the third grade a girl touched me & I her. It was in a bad way, and we knew it. In ’89 I lied to my parents about getting beat up & threw my bike in a ditch so I could get a new one. In high school I used girls & tossed them aside like Post-it Notes. In college I broke the rules because I hated the system. In my early…

• Goodbye 2011, Hello 2012

  Jason

  11 Jan 2012 | 1:55 pm

  Carol Of The Bells from Forefront Church on Vimeo.   I loved our Christmas Eve/Eve Service. It was a great way to wrap up 2011. The year had some amazing things take place… Sending a team to Joplin to help with the clean-up relief. So pumped we were able to be a part of that. Packing an 18 wheeler with supplies and sending it down to Alabama for hurricane relief. The news came out a did a story, it was awesome to see something on the news that positive. You guys rock! Two teams to Vietnam to finish the water system for 600+ people to have clean water and build dorms for kids who…

• Christmas Teaser #2

  Jason

  13 Dec 2011 | 11:58 am

  We’re prepping for our December 23rd service. It’s a Friday Night, 7pm at Ocean Lakes High School. It’s going to be intense! While we’ve been out filming videos for the service, we film little teasers along the way to peak your interest. Here is teaser #2 (We loaded it to YouTube & Vimeo last night, and it’s been blowing up. This is probably due to the fact I fractured 2 ribs at the hands of an angry James elf. Dr’s visit confirmed it yesterday. Merry Christmas!)   Christmas Teaser #2 from Forefront Church on Vimeo.

• 

  david kenney

• Sign your name “sinner” on the dotted line

  David

  27 Jan 2012 | 4:24 pm

  photo credit: marksdk He’s been called the “cussing pastor,” (although I have never heard him swear in a sermon) Pastor Mark Driscoll is the founding pastor of Mars Hill Church in Seattle, Washington and is one of the world’s most-downloaded and quoted pastors. His audience—fans and critics alike—spans the theological and cultural left and right. He was also named one of the “25 Most Influential Pastors of the Past 25 Years” by Preaching magazine, and his sermons are consistently #1 on iTunes each week for Religion & Spirituality with over 10 million of…

• Advice for the workforce

  David

  27 Jan 2012 | 1:13 pm

  photo credit: Michelllaurence Titus 2:9-10 (CEB) Tell slaves to submit to their own masters and please them in everything they do. They shouldn’t talk back  or steal. Instead they should show that they are completely reliable in everything so that they might make the teaching about God our savior attractive in every way. Titus chapter two is Paul’s advocation for teaching sound doctrine, especially in contrast with false teachers. Paul starts this chapter addressing community households and he begins in a hierarchal fashion starting first with old men, then old women, then young…

• Advice for young men

  David

  27 Jan 2012 | 12:47 pm

  photo credit: faungg Titus 2:6-8 (CEB) Likewise, encourage the younger men to be sensible  in every way. Offer yourself as a role model of good actions. Show integrity, seriousness,  and a sound message that is above criticism when you teach, so that any opponent will be ashamed because they won’t find anything bad to say about us. Titus chapter two is Paul’s advocation for teaching sound doctrine, especially in contrast with false teachers. Paul starts this chapter addressing community households and he begins in a hierarchal fashion starting first with old men, then old women,…

• When Work & Family Collide

  David

  27 Jan 2012 | 11:58 am

  Andy Stanley is an author, speaker and the senior pastor of North Point Community Church, Buckhead Church, and Browns Bridge Community Church. He also founded North Point Ministries, which is a worldwide Christian organization. He is also the son of famous TV preacher Charles Stanley. When Work & Family Collide is actually a reprint of an earlier book titled Choosing to Cheat (which is a terrible title if you ask me, it sounds like it’s marketed to men who choose to cheat on their spouses). However, “cheating” is a major theme in this book – but a different…

• 26

  David

  26 Jan 2012 | 9:27 pm

  Click here to view the video on YouTube. A Svengali deck and a little bit of “mentalism.”

• 

  (re)made

• I Don’t Know

  Adam Smith

  18 Jan 2012 | 1:44 am

  Creative Commons Photo Credit by photojonny You don’t know everything. I promise. Once you realize this, you can begin seeking what answers you need. It makes you vulnerable and that in itself makes your team trust you more. A leader that shares what they know and is humble in the areas of where they need to grow, shows others that it’s ok to know where your strengths are and those areas where some work needs to be put in. In the process you will pick up skills that make you better along the way. Once you know that you don’t have the answer, you can begin to find it. You can…

• You Are Just Down One Step: The Idea

  Adam Smith

  11 Jan 2012 | 6:31 pm

  Creative Commons Photo Credit by pascalbovet Ideas come and they go. Some of those ideas that come are bad, some are good and then some are those great ones in life. Forget about the bad ideas once you recognize which ones those are. There is no use in spending mental capacity on ideas that aren’t going anywhere. As for the good ideas, write those down somewhere where you can come back to them later. You may need to spend extra time thinking about how you can make those good ideas even better. With some strategic planning, those will most likely become great later on. Great ideas are…

• Using Your Mission Statement As A Filter

  Adam Smith

  4 Jan 2012 | 6:29 pm

  Creative Commons Photo Credit by inkybob Mission statements are important. Really important. They take time to process so you can come up with the one that is right for you. Be specific. Keep it just long enough to get the point across. You want to be able to remember it so you can tell others and so you can keep it handy for when you need to use it. Make sure it will lead you to your desired outcome. And once you find that fitting mission statement for your personal life or for your business, it is now time to put it to use. Here is why using a mission statement in every area of life is so…

• Write Things Down

  Adam Smith

  2 Jan 2012 | 11:15 pm

  Creative Commons Photo Credit by lynnfriedman If you are like me, if you don’t write things down or type it into Evernote, then you will forget it ten minutes later. Personally I’m a fan of Evernote, but if you don’t mess with technology a leather binder will do the job just fine. If you don’t write or type a to-do list yet, then here are 3 reasons why writing everything down is so important: 1. You waste time trying to think of what you needed to do in the first place. Your to-do list keeps you on point. It makes you more productive and effective throughout the day.

• Do You Know Your Reputation?

  Adam Smith

  27 Dec 2011 | 11:35 pm

  Some people will shrug off their reputation because they either don’t care to know or they think that the public’s perception isn’t accurate, but here are three reasons why you NEED to know what others think of you: 1. Your reputation is all you need for your “branding”. People try to do all sorts of “flashy”, gimmick events to build their marketing in the community and online, but let’s go deeper than that. Specials and events can help make up a company’s dynamic, but it can’t define them. Those things don’t last a lifetime.

• 

  Vineyard Church of Ithaca

• Pastoral Search Update from Sunday

  Erin

  19 Jan 2012 | 8:54 am

  This past Sunday James gave a quick update about where we are in the Pastoral Search Process. We want to pass the text along from what he said. Thanks to everyone for your prayers during this process. The Pastoral Search Team will be available for any questions following our 10 am worship service on January 29th. Here is the text from James’ Pastoral Search Team update given on Sunday, January 15, 2012:   Morning everyone. I wanted to take a few minutes to give you a brief update on behalf of the Pastoral Search Team. First of all thank you for all the praying and fasting and…

• Prayer & Fasting

  Bob

  7 Dec 2011 | 12:27 pm

  Starting on Monday, December 12, we are having 5 days of prayer and fasting to seek God concerning our pastoral search. While many of us have been doing this individually, we would like to tak Monday through Friday of next week and ask people to consider taking a 24 hour period of time to pray & fast. On Sunday we will provide a place on the connection card where you can sign up for a day. Or drop us an email if you’d like to sign up now. More info on Sunday.

• Pastoral Search Update

  James

  20 Nov 2011 | 5:45 am

  James Cherian Usually, when I think of meetings and committees and group projects, I think of a million other things I’d rather be doing. Being on the Pastoral Search Team has been a different story- It’s actually fun and exciting. I look forward to doing the work in preparation for our meetings, and enjoy the time we have together. The things I most dread about these types of meetings (long, pointless debates, passive aggressive personalities, lowest common denominator decisions) have been met with a refreshing, thoughtful, engaging, and meaningful process in discerning who it is that…

• Working on the Website

  Erin

  14 Nov 2011 | 11:05 am

  If you landed on our website, we’re glad you found us! Look around, email us if you have questions. We are in the process of changing our website around a bit, so if things seem like they are in bizarre places – we’re tinkering. We’re sorry for any confusion. Thanks!

• Personal Care Products

  Erin

  21 Oct 2011 | 3:37 pm

  Throughout October we are having our annual Personal Care Products drive. While you are running around town this weekend, don’t forget to grab some (extra) deodorant, a few bars of soap or some toothpaste and bring them with you on Sunday. These items will go to Catholic Charities (they give out little bags of personal items to people who need them). We will have a table set up in the café over the next couple weeks to collect the items. Thanks for your generosity!   Here are the items we are looking for: (*most needed) laundry detergent dish soap toilet paper shampoo conditioner…

• 

  HalMayer.com

• Whatever it Takes- Cell Phones???

  Hal Mayer

  23 Jan 2012 | 12:38 pm

  Last Sunday and next Sunday will be formative days for Church at the Bay.  We are explaining Part-ner-ship and then inviting people to become Partner’s at CATB.  For more information about this just click here… We had a great response to the cell phone sign-up.  Basically we will send you a verse to meditate on and memorize each week.  We may also notify you of something important.  But- we will not spam you.  This plan also lets you opt out at any time.  I know some had problems texting the number and name… if you did just fill in this app below and you will be signed up to…

• 

  ChurchTechToday

• Social Media is NOT a Waste of Time [Infographic]

  Lauren Hunter

  27 Jan 2012 | 10:02 am

  After reading emails, writing articles and sermons, and keeping up with industry articles, I thought you’d enjoy an infographic today about why social media is NOT a waste of time (ok, perhaps some of the time it’s a waste, but certainly not all the time): Social Media is NOT a Waste of Time [Infographic] is a post from: ChurchTechToday

• Breaking free of STD’s (Smartphone Technology Distractions

  Bryan Brooks

  25 Jan 2012 | 10:10 am

  There it goes again. The red light is blinking, a notification pops up or alert sounded. Whatever the case, you just got distracted by your smartphone once again. Anyone who uses a smartphone knows this feeling all too well. The flashing red light, pop-up notification or alert means your smartphone is calling your name, it wants something from you. Better drop what you’re doing and go tend to it now… Such is the life of a smartphone slave…No one enjoys being one. Unfortunately, it doesn’t end there. The alerts, pop-up notifications come at all hours: at home with the…

• Church Technology Communicator Shares Challenges, Successes

  Lauren Hunter

  23 Jan 2012 | 12:34 pm

  Several weeks ago, I put a call out on Twitter to interview anyone who deals with church technology and communication at their church. My idea was to interview a “regular joe” so-to-speak who is managing the day-to-day technology and communication needs of a church. That said, I had the pleasure of interviewing Will Lee, the director of Discipleship Ministries and Communication for Westminster Reformed Presbyterian Church in Suffolk, Virginia. Perhaps you will find that you are not alone in some of your challenges and successes. I would love to hear from more of my readers to find out…

• 3 Church Conferences Worth Checking Out

  Lauren Hunter

  20 Jan 2012 | 10:01 am

  Conferences are a great way to hone your skills, whether you are a pastor, a church leader, a consultant, or in any way involved in the Church. While I don’t keep a comprehensive list on CTT, I do feel that it’s valuable to share information about upcoming conferences from time to time. groundSWELL by Leadership Network Happening online Thursday, March 1, Leadership Network has put together a conference that is all about the future of the Church. All the people being interviewed are teenagers, which should make for a really valuable and interesting online church conference. Oh…

• 6 Great Church Tech Blogs

  Lauren Hunter

  18 Jan 2012 | 2:20 pm

  There are so many wonderful resources around the web to assist folks in ministry with church tech advice, insight, and assistance. I wanted to take a moment today to highly six great church tech blogs. Put these on your radar by signing up for their RSS feeds: 1-PastorGear:  Maintained by Tony McCollum, a senior pastor, photographer, designer and general tech nerd. This site is dedicated to helping pastors find stuff that they can use to make their lives easier and their ministries more effective.  2-Mobile Ministry Magazine: Run by Antoine Wright, this blog focuses on “Questions,…

• 

  Blog

• Q&A with Gungor

  25 Jan 2012 | 10:21 am

  Husband and wife Michael and Lisa Gungor lead the musical collective Gungor. They’ve released two full-length albums, including their most recent release, Ghosts Upon the Earth. The Gungors also contribute to worship at Bloom, a church they helped plant in Denver, Colo. Here, they discuss theology, community and why, just as with God, you can’t put worship in a box.

• Question of the Week

  24 Jan 2012 | 6:00 pm

  Each week, Neue asks a question that is meant to challenge, inspire and encourage today's ministry leaders. Feel free to respond and discuss in the comment section. This week, we want to know: What do you think of the concept of "celebrity pastors"?

• Blaine Hogan

  22 Jan 2012 | 6:00 pm

  We talk to author and Willow Creek Creative Director, Blaine Hogan. Click to listen now or subscribe at iTunes.

• Storytelling in the Church

  18 Jan 2012 | 10:20 am

  It probably goes without saying that the American church hasn’t always valued creativity as highly as it should. But that seems to be changing. Churches all over the country have creative teams, weekly church services are markedly more creative and conferences like STORY have injected new imagination into sanctuaries everywhere.

• Question of the Week

  17 Jan 2012 | 6:00 pm

  Each week, Neue asks a question that is meant to challenge, inspire and encourage today's ministry leaders. Feel free to respond and discuss in the comment section. This week, we want to know: Do you schedule time for you and your team to be creative?

• 

  mattofact.com

• Proclaim Church Presentation – Free in February with a Facebook Post

  Mattofact

  16 Jan 2012 | 12:32 pm

  New Church Presentation Software Free through February. Join something awesome. Proclaim, the latest church presentation software, has simplified Sunday morning. Now pastors, worship leaders, and production staff can build the entire service presentation online throughout the week. No stress. No rush. No madness. Download Proclaim for free or go to www.proclaimonline.com. And for now, it’s completely free through January. Plus, see below how to get continued free use of Proclaim through February with a simple Facebook post. Details below. Why Proclaim? Proclaim is super simple. It’s the…

• The “I can do anything I want to” Generation

  Mattofact

  15 Jan 2012 | 3:05 pm

  SNL nails on this one. I didn’t see it live, but forwarded to me like the few things they get right. When you’re marketing or promoting, don’t forget about this crew. You may be doing great talking to their parents, but this crew is a special breed. This SNL skit probably describes a few people you’ve run into. Enjoy! http://www.hulu.com/embed/xOR__JDNXqDVbyr2vZEdzw Mattofact: You can’t do anything just by putting your mind to it. You might be able to do something great if you give your life to it.  

• How is your church doing with honoring copyrights?

  Mattofact

  13 Jan 2012 | 7:26 pm

  You may not even know how to answer this question. The smart copyright guys over at Copyright Solver know exactly how to answer this questions, and they’ve made it into a fun AND ANONYMOUS game for your church staff.  Simple click the banner below or go to http://www.copyrightsolver.com/reportcard and answer a few questions. You’ll get a grade on how you are doing. You may have a CCLI license, you may work with Copyright Solver, or you may have a number of other licenses. If this quick report isn’t helpful, make sure to connect with a professional on it. For those churches…

• ‘Ask the Expert Live’ sponsored by Musicademy

  Mattofact

  5 Dec 2011 | 4:28 pm

  This week on Wednesday 7th December – 7.30pm GMT (London) 2.30pm EST (New York) 11.30am PST (Los Angeles) 6.30am (Australia on 8th Dec) I will be paneling a live discussion with killer group of industry insiders below. We’ll be fielding questions on anything from guitar pedals to info I will comment on – in the area of Church Presentation Software. I hope you can make it! This should be a great time of diving deep into some areas of ministry that worship leaders find useful. Along with any questions that you might have on church presentation software and church media you might…

• RAYSD – Doodle

  Mattofact

  7 Oct 2011 | 6:23 pm

  RAYSD is out. This is the a blogazine our editorial and design staff here at Logos have put out. I’m honored to work with a crew that can put a product like this together. Check out the newest issues. They have done a killer job at drilling into great design on the site, and follow suit into each article page. You can get there by going to RAYSD.com or clicking the image below. You’ll enjoy the free music downloads, movie reviews and great articles. Let me know what you think about the site. I was luck to have my “doodle” featured by our design staff in this article.

• 

  Artie Davis

• Are you Paying For it? Twice?

  artie

  25 Jan 2012 | 7:42 am

  The Isrelites constantly lost ground! As they followed God into the promised land and began to take the very ground God had promised, they would sin against God and then fall under His judgment. Consequently, ” I dont like to Retreat. It’s like paying for the same ground twice” ! Gen George S Patton There’s something disheartening about gaining ground, gaining territory, and then having to get it back later. You’ve fought for the land, you’ve battled for the ground you’ve taken, blood has been shared, you’ve stayed awake with it, you’ve…

• Is Your Church Closed… For MLK Day?

  artie

  16 Jan 2012 | 9:09 am

  Today is a national holiday honoring one of our countries greatest leaders. The question is… Is your Church office closed? Or, if it’s a smaller church, is the pastor or other PT staff given this day as a paid holiday? Take Our Poll Keep Reading! IF… I could just see what was coming! 10 Signs of a Mult-Ethnic Church What Are Your Greatest Struggles?

• You Really Want it that Bad?

  artie

  16 Jan 2012 | 4:34 am

  It aint cheap! If you really want to make a difference and be an agent of change with people and culture… All great minds, revolutionaries and world changers pay a very high price for their contributions. The cost… Separation Discrimination Ridicule Hatred Slander Pain Betrayal And…maybe even death! If you knew you could really make a difference, but knew the price in the beginning…Would You? You really want it that Bad? Keep Reading! 4-Essentials for Leading Change this Year My 4-A’s…Don’t plan on Failing These I Think God loves… Simple.

• I Think God loves… Simple.

  artie

  13 Jan 2012 | 7:52 am

  “This is what the Church should be doing.” Was the basic premise of the blog I read recently. They author was trying to explain, how the church has gotten off track, and in the first short paragraph he used these words… Missional Spirituality Abstraction Enlightenment Rationalism Reductionism Utopianism Consumerism Programism I don’t think it’s that complicated! It can’t be! How could you explain that to a pastor with the equivalent of a 3rd grade education in the up country of West Africa? Answer…You couldn’t. I think God love the Simple I…

• 4-BIG Moves…Who is WITH You?

  artie

  12 Jan 2012 | 4:47 am

  Big God moves… have a pattern Plan God has a great plan. The “Grand Plan” for the growth of His Kingdom. We don’t see this plan, but can see the fruits as it becomes visible around us. People When God gets ready to move, He always puts people together. They aren’t sure how they ended up there, in that place, around those people, but…Here we are. Purpose Then, God reveals His purpose. Generally to His appointed leader, the one that will carry the vision and rally others around the Kingdom vision. This is the point I want to make… God decides (and…

• 

  Evangelism.net

• Relinquishing My Role as the Holy Spirit

  Alan Chambers

  9 Jan 2012 | 9:15 am

  I had a dream last night that my wife, Leslie, and I were in a Life Group at church and a gay couple joined.  The two men were friends of mine from 20 years ago and had since adopted children.  They obviously knew me, how my story had evolved, and joined the group anyway.  During [...]

• 4 Overlooked Principles about Church Growth

  David Souther

  26 Dec 2011 | 8:29 am

  Most, if not all, church leaders would like to see their churches grow numerically in 2012. Growth is a sign of health. If a child is healthy, he or she will grow. Likewise, if a church is healthy, it will grow, both in quality (knowing Jesus more) and in quantity (making him known). Before healthy [...]

• Two Ornaments that Will Enhance Your Family’s Faith

  Sarah Bowler

  21 Dec 2011 | 8:22 am

  With all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it can be hard to find a moment to breathe. Rush to the store to get more flour for a recipe. Hustle to a neighbor’s house with a plate of cookies. Drive to church for a hymn sing. Then somewhere in there you return home to [...]

• A Charlie Brown Christmas

  David Souther

  19 Dec 2011 | 8:33 am

  Every Christmas, my family gathers to watch the Charlie Brown Christmas special on TV. I have seen this show so many times that I know every scene and almost every line, but it never gets old. The simplicity of the animation and story are refreshing compared to some of today’s Christmas specials. The plot of [...]

• Post-Trauma Evangelism: Is It Different? Part 2

  AJ Rinaldi

  14 Dec 2011 | 8:25 am

  Live! Victims may be relieved that they have lived through tragedy, not want to live because of their sense of loss, or even suffer guilt because they survived when others did not.  Whatever the situation—the word ‘live’ will no doubt have a new, special significance. In order to understand and remember some of the complexities [...]

• 

  Brandon A. Cox

• Fellow Church Planters, Check Out Velocity 2012

  brandon

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:39 am

  Fellow Church Planters, Check Out Velocity 2012 is a post from Brandon A. Cox.I remember Shawn Lovejoy telling the story of how, when they had their opening service at Mountain Lake Church, he totally forgot to take up the offering, and they couldn’t meet the following two weeks because of ice. I love guys that are real who pour themselves into others, and that’s Shawn. He and his team host an annual conference for church planters and Angie and I have officially purchased plane tickets – so there’s no turning back! If you’re a church planter or a church planting…

• Bobby Minor’s Coaching Network and Truly Mutual Church Planting Partnership

  brandon

  25 Jan 2012 | 6:49 am

  Bobby Minor’s Coaching Network and Truly Mutual Church Planting Partnership is a post from Brandon A. Cox.There are four elements necessary for a church planting movement to succeed: assessment of potential planters, ongoing training, partnership with existing churches, and personal coaching. Bobby Minor has a unique idea for creating a truly mutual partnership between his church plant and existing leaders, while also providing coaching from some of the nation’s leading church leadership thinkers. Bobby is planting Mosaic Church in Durham, North Carolina, a new campus of Mosaic…

• The New and Improved Pastors.com

  brandon

  24 Jan 2012 | 9:00 pm

  The New and Improved Pastors.com is a post from Brandon A. Cox. I love Pastors! And I love serving and connecting with Pastors through the greatest website in the web wide world for them – Pastors.com. In January of 2010, I was taken aback by a phone call from David Chrzan, Chief of Staff at Saddleback Church in southern California. We talked for an hour about blogging, online publishing, pastoral ministry, WordPress, and many other related topics. Then he invited me to attend Radicalis, Saddleback’s leadership conference, and I gladly agreed. That was the beginning of a pretty…

• What Does Revival Look Like in 2012?

  brandon

  21 Jan 2012 | 2:27 pm

  What Does Revival Look Like in 2012? is a post from Brandon A. Cox.Back in the olden days (the mid-1990′s) I preached a few times at a small church (averaging 12 each Sunday) in eastern Arkansas. They had a rotation system that determined who would take the visiting speaker home for lunch, and one day my lot fell to two elderly ladies who made awesome roast beef! As I sat in their living room visiting after lunch, they brought out some photo albums from the church’s history. I was amazed to see crowds of people stuffed so tight into the little white clapboard building that they…

• Why Church Planting?

  brandon

  11 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  Why Church Planting? is a post from Brandon A. Cox.Obviously, I’m passionate about church planting. On the blog of the Acts 29 Network is a great article that echoes my heart about the matter. It’s an adaptation of a writing by Tim Keller, and it really reflects the reason why we’re planning on planting out of Grace Hills as soon as possible. The vigorous, continual planting of new congregations is the single most crucial strategy for 1) the numerical growth of the Body of Christ in any city, and 2) the continual corporate renewal and revival of the existing churches in a…

• 

  The Navy Christian

• Week 1 Biggest Loser Results

  Dan Smith

  25 Jan 2012 | 5:23 am

  I am truly so grateful that I lost any weight at all this week. I know that's not very motivational, but it's true just the same. This week I lost 4 pounds, which again I'm very grateful for. My eating has not come under control, and my workouts aren't great yet. Still, 4 pounds if 4 pounds, and takes me closer to the goal of passing my upcoming Physical Fitness Assessment and winning the Great

• Christians and the Fear of Success

  Dan Smith

  23 Jan 2012 | 6:23 am

  A lot of Christians are afraid of success, especially in the vocational ministry setting. Even outside of that, in a secular job setting, people are scared of it for some reason. Yet I look at Christ's example and see Him dripping with ambition. He was out to change the world. So it is most certainly possible to be out to change the world, or be successful, and still be meek and humble. This is a

• Running for President in South Carolina

  Dan Smith

  21 Jan 2012 | 7:59 am

  I'm not running for president (yet) but I did take notice of something that came up in the run-up to South Carolina's Republican primary. The character “attack” against Newt Gingrich set off some serious sparks in the last few days. I don't know how much it will really play a role in deciding South Carolina's nomination for Republican Presidential nominee, but it was a big deal overall. We

• Competition 1 of 2012: MWR Indoor Triathlon

  Dan Smith

  19 Jan 2012 | 5:17 am

  Competition 1 of 2012: MWR Indoor Triathlon Part of what makes weblogs wonderful is that they can act as a sort of journal of activity. 2012 represents a year of change physically for me as I strive to be healthier. So, in the spirit of being better physically, and tracking my progress in this wonderful medium, here is my report from the MWR Indoor Triathlon. I was completely unprepared for

• Biggest Loser at Great Lakes

  Dan Smith

  18 Jan 2012 | 5:23 am

  A week or so ago I recorded a question asking the Biggest Loser crew: The question basically asks what we can do to not fall apart every six months between Navy Physical Fitness Assessments. Like it or not, several of us bigger people struggle with it. Well, one thing that we can do is exactly what the Biggest Loser does. Have a bunch of overweight people fight tooth and nail for several

• 

  Cory Center for Children's Ministry » Blog

• The Importance of Holiday | Part 2

  Kyle Bostock

  27 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am

  As I write this I’m flying at 30,000 ft. headed back to the snowy NorthWest after a great holiday on the west coast of Mexico.  My family and I were incredibly blessed to get to spend two weeks at my Father’s timeshare.  It was an incredible opportunity to unwind from the day-to-day grind of ministry work.  As we head back, while not excited to battle the heavy snow, I am reenergized with a new since of urgency for the ministry and calling that God placed on my life. Holiday is important because it provides and opportunity for us to disconnect and reenergize.  Whether we want…

• Dealing with Anger: Providing Order

  Jesse

  24 Jan 2012 | 7:03 am

  One of the problems that I faced as a dad I also see from time to time in the classroom – young children who are angry and have problems expressing their anger. My younger son went through what we thought was a “phase” of hitting – we tried many different ways to stop the behavior but what we needed to do was find out the cause of the behavior and address that. Of course, his reasons were mixed but they generally fell into the category of frustration or perceived violations. Scream and Shout by Mindaugas Danys The biggest thing that I learned is that when anger rears…

• Children’s Ministry Ideas: Planning Center

  mguevara

  23 Jan 2012 | 7:35 am

  This post could save you hours every month. Every Sunday School Director, Children’s Pastor, or Christian Education Director has volunteers.  Ministry requires volunteers.  By virtue of having a volunteer team every leader has to create some system to schedule and manage their volunteers.  For years I created an Excel spreadsheet to tackle volunteer scheduling but I quickly ran into problems: If I sent out the schedule before getting input from the team, I ended up having to make adjustments and resending the schedule. If I solicited volunteer feedback ahead of time, creating the…

• Children’s Ministry Ideas: Hootsuite

  Jesse

  17 Jan 2012 | 7:01 am

  I’m going to jump on Matt’s bandwagon for a moment and share a tool with you that I have been trying to put to better use. Many of the parents at my church use Facebook – and, regardless of my personal preference, it’s good to have a presence there as well. But, I don’t have the inclination to spend much time on Facebook and I often forget how useful it can be. That’s where Hootsuite can help. Hootsuite has several levels of support and function, but the base level is free. The free version can support up to 5 “streams” and if you need more you…

• Children’s Ministry Ideas: VoiceThread

  mguevara

  16 Jan 2012 | 5:00 am

  Volunteer training is part of any Sunday School program, children’s ministry, or mid-week club.  Investing in children requires an investment in the volunteers who will lead them.  That’s where VoiceThread can be a helpful tool. Let’s stop here for a brief caveat: If you consistently get 100% of your Sunday School teachers and children’s ministry volunteers to show up for every training, skip this blog post and start your own consulting firm.  This post is for leaders who need creative solutions to deliver training to every volunteer. VoiceThread is a web-based multi-media slide…

• 

  Christian Web Resources :: Index

• Church Websites 101: Fix the Easy Stuff

  1 Jan 2012 | 5:47 am

  Category: Web StrategiesTitle: Church Websites 101: Fix the Easy StuffSummary: Introduced in Church Websites 101: Easy. Not Simple, we're now going to dig deeper into the strategies you can employ to build and maintain a more effective website for your church or ministry.The easy fixes are things you have, or should have, direct control over - the content is yours. This is all about what you post online. Examine your topics, your schedule for posting and updating, the language you use and your presentation. Do it now and keep doing it - establish a discpline (be a disciple) for your ministry.

• Church Websites 101: Easy. Not Simple

  2 Dec 2011 | 6:37 am

  Category: Web StrategiesTitle: Church Websites 101: Easy. Not SimpleSummary: Point. Click, Type, Click. Drag, Drop. Share. Take a fresh look at your website - it might be easy, but it ain't simple! The number of easy-to-use site building and publishing tools is cllimbing, but the task of building and maintaining a good website is not getting any simpler. Until now.The concepts are easily learned and, with proper discipline, you can have an effective, enjoyable website for your church.

• How To Build The Ark

  3 Nov 2011 | 5:59 am

  Category: Web TechnologiesTitle: How To Build The ArkSummary: When technology works - it's great. When it doesn't, life can be miserable. God had Noah build the ark. He also had Joseph store up grain for the famine. What preparations have you made for the ups and downs you'll experience?

• Developing an Effective Church Web Strategy

  19 Jul 2011 | 5:13 am

  Category: Web StrategiesTitle: Developing an Effective Church Web StrategySummary: Having a web strategy for your church is really a part of having a communications strategy for you church - your website is just one aspect of all your communications media. Even your web strategy will be broken into several components - a website, possibly a Facebook page and a Twitter account, maybe other online channels like YouTube and MySpace.There are many pieces to your web strategy, but just having all the pieces doesn't mean they all fit together - yet!Just like shaking the box won't assemble the…

• Finding Your Voice and Rising Above the Noise

  13 Mar 2011 | 5:48 am

  Category: Web StrategiesTitle: Finding Your Voice and Rising Above the NoiseSummary: People are bombarded with information - radio, television, magazines, newspapers, text messages, email and social media updates. Despite all the noise, people are still starved for good information. How do you get heard above the noise? Contribute to the noise? Quantity does not guarantee quality. The biggest factor in getting heard is actually saying something on a regular basis. Not just anything, but something of value - timely and relevant. I will bet you have something of importance to share with people,…

• 

  the running reverend

• Lenten Meditations (Some Exciting News)

  26 Jan 2012 | 9:25 pm

  A few years ago I authored some curriculum that might best be described as a “discipleship...

• Rockin' a Roku and Hulu+

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:07 pm

  Throughout our married life, Crystal and I have elected to forgo television to practice focus our...

• Mission: Statement or Question?

  26 Jan 2012 | 3:20 pm

  The influence of corporate American on the Western Church is undeniable. Churches have often...

• The MacGyver Approach to Church

  23 Jan 2012 | 11:36 pm

  At this very moment I am sitting in bed typing away on my iPad while watching reruns of MacGyver...

• A theory: Our prescribed acts of worship are born out of an inner fear

  18 Jan 2012 | 1:36 pm

  Some of you have heard my theory of church design: I think the reason why we pad our pews, bolt the...

• 

  Mark Batterson

• Day 18

  mark

  27 Jan 2012 | 4:30 am

  Take captive every thought and make it obedient to Christ. II Corinthians 10:5 I’d rather have 1 God idea than 1000 good ideas. Good ideas are good, but God ideas change the course of history!  Where do you get those ideas?  Not from brainstorming. You get them from prayerstorming. It’s praying in a way that allows the Holy Spirit to conceive ideas in our minds and hearts and spirits.  You never know where a God idea might come from, but prayer is the incubator.  And when the idea is conceived, stewardship demands that you “take it captive.”  By the way, this is…

• Day 17

  mark

  26 Jan 2012 | 4:00 am

  On the seventh day you are to march around the city seven times. Joshua 6:4 Can I ask a counterfactual question: what would have happened if the Israelites had stopped circling Jericho on day six? The obvious answer is this: they would have forfeited the miracle right before it happened.  The wall of Jericho would not have fallen and the promise would have remained unclaimed. Nothing has changed. I wonder how many of us have forfeited promises, forfeited miracles, forfeited dreams because we quit circling too soon.  Please don’t read that and get depressed.  God is the God of second…

• The Circle Maker Tour

  mark

  25 Jan 2012 | 8:09 pm

  My book tour kicks into high gear in the next few days.  It’s a little overwhelming to be honest. I’m a homebody. Love my family and my church family.  At the same time, I’m so excited to see the beginnings of a prayer revival.  I saw it in New York and Baltimore last week. All of that to say this: I covet your prayers! I’ll be in Cleveland, Ohio Thursday night.  Come on out to A Greater Cause conference.  There are also live streaming venues in several cities across Ohio. On Sunday, I’ll be in Baltimore with Ken Patterson at Grace International Church.

• Day 16

  mark

  25 Jan 2012 | 7:29 am

  This happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him. John 9:3 Pray. Pray Hard. Pray Through. But don’t pray away. How many times did the blind man in John 9 pray for healing?  How many times did his parents beg God to give their little boy his eyesight?  I wonder how many prayers went unanswered.  Or did they? Ultimately, the man born blind was healed but not until it would yield the greatest glory. Let’s be honest, 90% of our prayers revolve around personal comfort, not God’s glory.  Too often we try to pray away every problem.  But what if that is the…

• Day 15

  mark

  24 Jan 2012 | 7:37 am

  So Joshua fought the Amalekites as Moses had ordered, and Moses, Aaron and Hur went to the top of the hill. As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword. Exodus 17:10-13 There are moments in life where you lack the ability to pray for yourself.  You lack…

• 

  Liberty Church NYC | New York City

• “The Year Of The Lord’s Favor” Paul Andrew – Podcast

  Paul Andrew

  26 Jan 2012 | 10:54 am

  Subscribe in iTunes to the LibertyChurchNYC podcast to receive new teaching automatically. Paul Andrew preached this message called “The Year Of The Lord’s Favor” at our services in Tribeca and Union Square at our First Anniversary Celebration services on January 22nd. Sunday Services- Tribeca – Tribeca Cinemas 11am Union Square – New York Film Academy 7pm [...] Related posts: “No Turning Back” Paul Andrew – Podcast “Remain” Paul Andrew – Podcast “Go” Paul Andrew – Podcast

• VIDEO: “Our Story” – First Anniversary Documentary

  Paul Andrew

  25 Jan 2012 | 7:12 pm

  The story of Liberty Church being planted in New York City. This documentary was shown at the First Anniversary Celebration services in 2012. (select 720p for HD quality) Related posts: First Anniversary Celebration – Sun Jan 22nd “It Is Written” Andi Andrew – Podcast New Year’s Day – 7pm Service in Tribeca Related posts: First Anniversary Celebration – Sun Jan 22nd “It Is Written” Andi Andrew – Podcast New Year’s Day – 7pm Service in Tribeca

• “A Theology Of Freedom” Sebastian Buffa – Podcast

  Paul Andrew

  20 Jan 2012 | 8:43 am

  Subscribe in iTunes to the LibertyChurchNYC podcast to receive new teaching automatically. Sebastian Buffa preached this message called “A Theology Of Freedom” at our services in Tribeca and Union Square on Jan 14th 2012. Sunday Services- Tribeca – Tribeca Cinemas 11am Union Square – New York Film Academy 7pm Related posts: “Is God Asleep In Your [...] Related posts: “Is God Asleep In Your Boat?” Sebastian Buffa – Podcast “It Is Written” Andi Andrew – Podcast “Finishing Well” Paul Andrew – Podcast

• Video: Liberty Church News Jan 14th

  Paul Andrew

  18 Jan 2012 | 9:14 am

  All the latest from Liberty Church NYC. Liberty Church News Jan 14th | Liberty Church NYC | Paul & Andi Andrew | New York City Related posts: Video: Liberty Church News Jan 1st Video: Liberty Church News Jan 8th Video: Liberty Church News Dec 18th Related posts: Video: Liberty Church News Jan 1st Video: Liberty Church News Jan 8th Video: Liberty Church News Dec 18th

• Launching “Visionaries” – Our Entrepreneurial Community

  Paul Andrew

  12 Jan 2012 | 3:25 pm

  2012 marks the launch of a new ministry in our church called Visionaries. Visionaries is the entrepreneurial community of our church and its charter is to equip, encourage and enable those in our church whose primary sphere of influence is in the marketplace. It’s a group of like-minded men and women who want to make [...] Related posts: Internships – Launching Fall 2011 Night Service & New Community – Coming This Fall Bookkeeper Or Accountant Needed

• 

  MarkHowellLive.com

• Rooms: An Interesting New Small Group Experience from Lifeway

  Mark Howell

  27 Jan 2012 | 5:50 am

  Had an opportunity this week to spend some time with an interesting new DVD-driven small group study from Lifeway.  Rooms: The Small Group Experience is the first study I’m aware of that was inspired by an award-winning novel (Published in 2010, Rooms was named the Best Inspirational Novel of 2010 by the Reviewers’ Choice Awards). Likened to The Shack, Rooms is the story of “young software tycoon Micah Taylor and a cryptic letter he receives from a great uncle he never knew.  It claims a home awaits him on the Oregon coast.  In Cannon Beach.  The one place he loves.

• SMaC Recipe for Small Group Ministry Coaching

  Mark Howell

  26 Jan 2012 | 7:58 am

  Working to build an effective coaching structure?  I referred to a new concept from Great by Choice, Jim Collins’ most recent book in a recent post.  It turns out to have tremendous application for anyone working on their coaching structure.  Let me take a paragraph to bring you up to speed.  Then, I’ll show you how we’re applying it right now. Get Up to Speed A SMaC recipe is the code for translating a high-level Hedgehog Concept into specific action and for keeping an organization focused in the same direction, thereby building flywheel momentum (p. 186, Great by…

• Flaws of Biblical Proportions: Great Video from bluefish tv

  Mark Howell

  25 Jan 2012 | 7:52 am

  Need a short video that casts the right vision for small group ministry?  One that caught my attention in 2011 was Flaws of Biblical Proportions.  Take a look.  If you haven’t seen this one, you’ll be figuring out how to use it: Can’t see the video? You can watch it right here. Top 10 Posts for December, 2011 2011's Most Popular Articles Here Are My Favorite Posts

• Leading Small Groups with Purpose: New from Steve Gladen

  Mark Howell

  24 Jan 2012 | 5:50 am

  If you’ve been looking for small group leader training resources, you’re going to want to take a look at Leading Small Groups with Purpose.  New from Steve Gladen, this is gem of a resource!  Packed with real-life illustrations, how-tos, and ideas…this is a must-have for every leader. Gladen’s earlier book, Small Groups with Purpose, was an excellent resource for point leaders (whether from the purpose driven camp or not).  The same is true for Leading Small Groups with Purpose.  The content is so relevant, it works regardless of the type of small group system in…

• Quotebook: Henry Ford on the Secret of Success

  Mark Howell

  23 Jan 2012 | 7:32 am

  We’ve talked about this routinely.  If you want to have any success connecting beyond the usual suspects, you have learn to see things from their point-of-view.  It really is a living out of Philippians 2:4: “Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.” I tripped across this great Henry Ford line while reading Steve Gladen’s Leading Small Groups with Purpose: If there is any great secret of success in life, it lies in the ability to put yourself in the other person’s place and to see things from his point of view –…

• 

  the mayward blog

• What Is The Gospel, Really?

  27 Jan 2012 | 10:50 am

  What is the gospel? It's a simple question, but with potentially complex answers. One volunteer guessed that only about a quarter of the students in our ministry could answer it accurately and with any confidence. I felt like that percentage was too low, seeing that one of my core ministry values is the Gospel is everything. Every message I give, every opportunity that comes up, every spiritual conversation, and every prayer comes back to the Gospel for me. It's all about the good news of Jesus. Yet maybe the news isn't getting through. For a missions trip I'm leading this summer, we asked…

• Boring Is Better

  26 Jan 2012 | 7:05 am

  That's the title for an article I wrote for the January/February issue of Immerse Journal. It explores the intersection between faith and film (a subject dear to my heart) with a particular focus on slower "boring" films and how they might be connected to our spiritual formation. An excerpt: Allow me to make two assumptions here:1. None of the students you disciple have viewed The Tree of Life. 2. Nearly all of your students have viewed either Transformers: Dark of the Moon or The Hangover: Part II. Many of us simply accept this as normative. Why is this the case? What are the cultural…

• Why Youth Ministry Programs Aren't Necessarily Bad

  23 Jan 2012 | 9:47 am

  This is one post where I'm not even completely sure that I agree with the idea I'm proposing. But allow me to play the devil's advocate for a moment. Programs. It's like a four-letter word in youth ministry leadership, the necessary evil that we hate to have as part of our ministry. Let's do a word association. What comes to mind when you hear the word "program?" Rigid. Event planning. Administration. Bureaucracy. Curriculum. Boring. Time-consuming. Busyness. Frustration. Those bulletins that tell you the order of a service or event. In the youth ministry world, it's become nearly cliche to…

• Parenting Wisdom For All Ages

  20 Jan 2012 | 8:34 am

  My ministry friend, Brian Berry, just finished a week-long blog series entitled Parenting Toddlers Into Teens You'll Love. It's both theologically-insightful and deeply practical wisdom for parents who have kids at any age. Here are links to all five parts: 1) Protect your kids (care based), don't shelter them (fear based) 2) Teach them how to think (process based), not what to think (product based) 3) Expect them to be maturing (experience based), not to be mature (evaluation based) 4) Help them own their faith (Jesus based), not just obey your faith (rules based) 5) Let them embrace God's…

• Psalm 119 - The All-Church Experiment

  19 Jan 2012 | 9:01 am

  Nearly a year ago, God laid a vision on the hearts of our church leaders to have an extensive time in cultivating a deep love and meaningful time in God's word. That vision has taken fruit this week in the form of a six-week study in the immense acrostic poem, Psalm 119. All the ministries in our church are participating. Everyone. From youngest to oldest. Six weeks. All focusing on the same thing. What could God do if every ministry in a church put aside any other agendas and focused on one important thing? Whether that was Scripture, prayer, sharing the Gospel in the community, or any…

• 

  CharlieWhitlow.com

• 2011 in Review at Community Church

  Charlie Whitlow

  3 Jan 2012 | 8:17 pm

  Well, 2011 is in the history books now. Here are a few highlights & 1 low light we shared together as a church family. In February, during our Sextastic series Jill preached to one of our largest crowds on the subject of ‘Marital Sex’. If you missed it…well, what can I say but sorry! Every couple present received the best ‘sex’ counseling for free. Just think about that benefit. Every Sunday we at Community get superior life ‘counseling’ from scripture just by showing up regularly & paying attention…but I digress. For those that missed Jill’s ‘Marital Sex’ talk…

• New Series: BeChristmas

  Charlie Whitlow

  23 Nov 2011 | 12:03 pm

  Christmas is the time that we remember & celebrate the birth of Christ—our liberator & redeemer. Christ is central to Christianity. In reality, he is the center piece of humanity. But, Christianity is NOT just believing the right stuff about Christ, even though this is critical. It is also doing the right stuff. So, our goal this Advent season, is to focus intently on NOT just celebrating Christmas but being Christmas; on NOT just believing in Christ BUT actually being like Christ; on NOT just thinking right but translating our theology into behaviors everybody can understand. Well,…

• 21 Days of Prayer & Fasting

  Charlie Whitlow

  1 Nov 2011 | 11:00 am

  Our 21 days of unbroken prayer & fasting is on! (Sun Oct 30th – Sat Nov 19th) If you haven’t signed up for a time slot, feel free to jump in at anytime. You can pick a slot here. Ok, here is a reminder about what we’re praying about. (Of course, you can pray about other things but these have our attention as a church family)   Prayer Themes: 1) Re-surrender: Throughout our spiritual journeys the Lord continually checks our attitudes (our hearts) to see if they are still right. Truly, the only acceptable offering we can give is to be a ‘living sacrifice.’ (Romans 12:1)…

• 5 Don’ts on Halloween

  admin

  31 Oct 2011 | 9:30 pm

  If I were Satan what would I want believers doing on Halloween? To me, that’s the same as asking what does Satan want believers doing any other day of the year whether it’s Halloween, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving, the 4th of July or whatever. So, what does he want? He wants us to miss opportunities to intermingle with our neighbors & community. He wants us to excuse ourselves from this ‘pagan’ holiday so we remain holy. He wants us to keep far away from…our neighbors & their Satanic custom of ‘trick-or-treating’ lest we are tricked ourselves into…

• Book Review: Deeper Experiences of Famous Christians

  Charlie Whitlow

  12 Oct 2011 | 5:10 pm

  In Deeper Experiences, James Lawson explores the spiritual lives of the most famous Christians of all ages. He begins with a brief sketch of Old Testament saints, moves to the New Testament & than touches on the post-apostolic era before centering on specific characters from Savonarola (1452-1498) to the present (1911). What Lawson found was that no matter how different the individuals were or what the various nuances of their beliefs were they all had one thing in common—the baptism, filling or gift of the Holy Spirit. Now, they called this baptism different things—entire…

• 

  ChurchKreatives

• Study: Why People Use Facebook

  bobbychandler@gmail.com (Bobby Chandler)

  17 Jan 2012 | 2:06 pm

  The answer to the question, “why do people use Facebook?” can be simplified with two answers. 1. The need to belong 2. The need for self-presentation According [...]

• Infographic: The World of Megachurches

  bobbychandler@gmail.com (Bobby Chandler)

  27 Nov 2011 | 3:59 pm

  Interesting infographic from Good Magazine. The sources for the stats come from Leadership Network, Christian Post, and Forbes. A few things to note here: Almost half of [...]

• History Of The CBS Eye Logo

  bobbychandler@gmail.com (Bobby Chandler)

  26 Nov 2011 | 9:25 pm

  “The History of the CBS Eye Logo” tells the story of the iconic, 60 year old CBS logo, which was created in 1951 by designer William Golden. [...]

• (video) The Godfather of Typography Videos

  bobbychandler@gmail.com (Bobby Chandler)

  15 Nov 2011 | 12:05 am

  Typographers and designers owe Saul Bass some props. He was ahead of his time with design. He nearly single-handedly turn movie titles into an artform. Previous to [...]

• Making special days more special

  bobbychandler@gmail.com (Bobby Chandler)

  13 Nov 2011 | 1:49 pm

  For the past two years our church has promoted the last October Sunday of the month as “Orange Day” for kids.  This year we decided to come [...]

• 

  The Discipleship Diary

• The Deadly Sin of Self-righteousness Part 2

  Melini Moodley

  27 Jan 2012 | 5:59 pm

  “How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart,  I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God. I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the  north. I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the Most High.” –Is 14:12-14It was a deadly mix of pride, hypocrisy and self-righteousness that, in the beginning, caused the created to revolt against his Creator. Lucifer, the most beautiful of…

• The Deadly Sin of Self-righteousness

  Melini Moodley

  20 Jan 2012 | 12:17 pm

  Would you be surprised to learn that the deadliest of sins, self-righteousness is not as obvious as one may think? It’s curious and decadent wrapping makes it all the more dangerous. Having its roots in hypocrisy, it manifests in myriads of ways that are not often viewed for what they really are. Examine the story of the blind man healed by Jesus in John 9. The Pharisees, critical of all Jesus’ works, sought occasion to accuse Him of breaking the Law of God. They did not see the fruit of His work in the confident, young man that stood before them eloquently sharing the testimony of how he…

• How to make the best of 2012

  Melini Moodley

  6 Jan 2012 | 9:19 am

  Having finally entered into the New Year, I decided it might be a fitting time to outline some tips on how we can make the best of 2012.  I hope you find them encouraging and helpful.-Put God first in your life and seek Him for guidance in your decision - making. (Ps 119:105, Ps 37:23)-Embrace a positive attitude and surround yourself with positive people of faith. (Num 13:30, Num 14:6-10)-Decide on the legacy you would like to leave behind. Your legacy will impact on the vision you have for your future. Remember, legacies are not comprised solely of things of monetary value but rather…

• A Message for the New Year - 2012

  Melini Moodley

  31 Dec 2011 | 1:35 pm

  Time has flown by! Tomorrow, should the grace of  God allow, we will greet the first day of the new year. 2011 has been a year of new experiences for some and tragedy for others. We have definitely been reminded of the brevity of time for the coming of our Lord; the signs have been more pronounced than ever before. We should know where our priorities lie.2011 brought with it an increase in natural disasters. Storms, cyclones, floods, tornadoes, tsunamis and earthquakes  have been commonplace, and the second biggest nuclear disaster the world has experienced since Chernobyl shocked…

• Pilgrim

  Melini Moodley

  24 Dec 2011 | 11:00 am

  I am a pilgrim on a journeyTo the Promised Land;I have asked God for guidance, That He would take my hand…Often anxious, often wearyAs meandering paths I treadI remember my Saviour;He had no place to lay His head…I will trust Him for He already has traveled this narrow way;He is my fire by night, my pillar of cloud by dayHe will never leave me, nor forsake me;His Promise is sureI will be with Him in His Kingdom, Where we will dwell forevermore…While I journey on this road,I find tokens of His love:The garden of tears, The Cross on which He shed His blood…He died to relieve meOf my…

• 

  Pray Chat

• My Brother’s healing

  Pray Chat

  24 Jan 2012 | 2:32 pm

  Please pray that my brother is healed spiritually & that he is no longer angry at me. No email reply is needed. Thank you.

• Losing my religion

  Pray Chat

  23 Jan 2012 | 5:55 pm

  Please remember me in a good way, as the guy who always believed but had a lot of unanswered questions. The guy who can’t remember your number. I feel hopeless and buried. Why do so many suffer. I do not want to be another angry or bitter soul, I just want a happy life. I always thought that hell was something that happened after a non believer died. I don’t want to be rude or blasphemous but seriously wtf? Sincerely you son, Mathew

• Divorce

  Pray Chat

  21 Jan 2012 | 2:59 am

  I got served divorce papers today. This is killing me my husband Josh is my best friend. He says he still loves me and I believe he is confused and going to regret this. Please pray that god will show Josh he belongs with me and our daughters. Also could you please pray for my strength durning this time. Thank you so much these prayers mean so much to me.

• Strength against lies and more lies

  Pray Chat

  19 Jan 2012 | 10:37 am

  It seems that the more closely I am getting to taking the USMLE medical exam the more spiritual attacks I am getting from people around me.I feel used and manipulated even by my own relatives and don’t know how I amgoing to get through the next 4months since I am not getting access to my finances without having to sacrifice a substantial amount of time and energy and resources to go home and access it. This is so ridiculous. I pray that these people will carry God’s burden on their necks and see how it feels like to incur his wrath..

• totally alone and afraid

  Pray Chat

  19 Jan 2012 | 10:37 am

  I am a single mother, i feel so alone, I have no family .. well few i dont know in another state. I am so worried because i have lost all hope. I will be homeless soon, i can not find a job i look everyday. I dont even have anymore money to look…. I dont understand, I help others everyday i love people… i dont think anyone cares anymore about anyone. i cant even type the words with out crying so hard.. please pray or email me sparksloves@yahoo.com thank you

• 

  GC Ministry

• Has God Spoken?: Proof of the Bible’s Divine Inspiration – Hank Hanegraaff

  RevCollins

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:24 am

  GC MinistryYes He Has! Has God Spoken?: Proof of the Bible’s Divine Inspiration – Hank Hanegraaff Great Apologetics Book Has God Spoken?: Proof of the Bible’s Divine Inspiration by Hank Hanegraaff is a wonderful book dedicated to exploring the topic of the claim the bible is the word of God. Great Christian Resource Has God Spoken is a treasure of knowledge for you to investigate whether the Bible is truly the word of God. Hank Hanegraaff shares this knowledge in four easy to remember components. He uses the acronym MAPS to help you remember what they are: Manuscript COPIES…

• Casting Crowns – Just Another Birthday

  RevCollins

  25 Jan 2012 | 5:29 am

  GC MinistryCasting Crowns: Just Another Birthday I love Casting Crowns! Their songs always speak straight to the heart of the listener. Casting Crowns has delivered another thought-provoking “tear jerker” for their latest album in the song Just Another Birthday. I first heard it on the album Courageous. It was powerful then and the video below only adds to that power. I hope you enjoy the video. What do you think we as the body of Christ can do to show the love of God to those around us like the girl in today’s song?Related posts: Carmen: We Need God In America Again Ashley…

• Gungor-Beautiful Things

  RevCollins

  18 Jan 2012 | 5:05 am

  GC MinistryDuring the MercyMe CD Giveaway, I asked you what your favorite Praise & Worship song/group was. A few of you listed today’s group, Gungor, as one you liked. I wanted to share their Beautiful Things song with the rest of the community as well. I hope you enjoy them as well. What do you think about them?No related posts.Gungor-Beautiful Things

• The Comment Policy is complete!

  RevCollins

  16 Jan 2012 | 8:24 am

  GC MinistryThe Comment Policy is complete. I haven’t had a real problem with inappropriate comments (yet ) on this blog. I don’t expect a problem with the current members of the community. The policy is designed to allow me to keep everyone’s experience here pleasant and enjoyable. I Need You Help. This is where you, the members, can help me. I need you to check the new policy and let me know what your suggestions and concerns are. Did I get to specific, not enough? Did I leave something out that you think must be here? Did I make something too drastic? This is your…

• Favorite Links Friday-Rev Trev

  RevCollins

  13 Jan 2012 | 5:58 am

  GC MinistryFavorite Links Friday-Rev Trev This Friday I want to share with you one of my favorite bloggers and sponsors. Rev. Trevor Lund is an exceptional writer and blogger. You can find loads of resources for your spiritual journey on his site. In addition, he has wonderful tips on how to increase your influence in social media circles such as Twitter. His Twitter Tips helped me grow my twitter following from 40 to 1800 in only two months. His tips aren’t just about growing numbers. They are also about growing influence to reach the web for Christ. Click on his ad in the sidebar to…

• 

  Artie Davis

• Are you Paying For it? Twice?

  artie

  25 Jan 2012 | 7:42 am

  The Isrelites constantly lost ground! As they followed God into the promised land and began to take the very ground God had promised, they would sin against God and then fall under His judgment. Consequently, ” I dont like to Retreat. It’s like paying for the same ground twice” ! Gen George S Patton There’s something disheartening about gaining ground, gaining territory, and then having to get it back later. You’ve fought for the land, you’ve battled for the ground you’ve taken, blood has been shared, you’ve stayed awake with it, you’ve…

• Is Your Church Closed… For MLK Day?

  artie

  16 Jan 2012 | 9:09 am

  Today is a national holiday honoring one of our countries greatest leaders. The question is… Is your Church office closed? Or, if it’s a smaller church, is the pastor or other PT staff given this day as a paid holiday? Take Our Poll Keep Reading! IF… I could just see what was coming! 10 Signs of a Mult-Ethnic Church What Are Your Greatest Struggles?

• You Really Want it that Bad?

  artie

  16 Jan 2012 | 4:34 am

  It aint cheap! If you really want to make a difference and be an agent of change with people and culture… All great minds, revolutionaries and world changers pay a very high price for their contributions. The cost… Separation Discrimination Ridicule Hatred Slander Pain Betrayal And…maybe even death! If you knew you could really make a difference, but knew the price in the beginning…Would You? You really want it that Bad? Keep Reading! 4-Essentials for Leading Change this Year My 4-A’s…Don’t plan on Failing These I Think God loves… Simple.

• I Think God loves… Simple.

  artie

  13 Jan 2012 | 7:52 am

  “This is what the Church should be doing.” Was the basic premise of the blog I read recently. They author was trying to explain, how the church has gotten off track, and in the first short paragraph he used these words… Missional Spirituality Abstraction Enlightenment Rationalism Reductionism Utopianism Consumerism Programism I don’t think it’s that complicated! It can’t be! How could you explain that to a pastor with the equivalent of a 3rd grade education in the up country of West Africa? Answer…You couldn’t. I think God love the Simple I…

• 4-BIG Moves…Who is WITH You?

  artie

  12 Jan 2012 | 4:47 am

  Big God moves… have a pattern Plan God has a great plan. The “Grand Plan” for the growth of His Kingdom. We don’t see this plan, but can see the fruits as it becomes visible around us. People When God gets ready to move, He always puts people together. They aren’t sure how they ended up there, in that place, around those people, but…Here we are. Purpose Then, God reveals His purpose. Generally to His appointed leader, the one that will carry the vision and rally others around the Kingdom vision. This is the point I want to make… God decides (and…

• 

  All Articles

• Steward Your Health - part 3

  Think Eternity

  13 Jan 2012 | 12:45 pm

  Our health is about more than our weight. Our health plays a role in every part of our lives - including our spirituality and our ability to glorify God and advance the Gospel. In this final article of this "Steward Your Health" blog series, here are a few other key ways to steward our health for the glory of God: Be intentional about drinking water Experts tell us we need far more than 8 glasses of water per day. It is actually more like 11-15 glasses of water. We don't naturally drink this much. We have to adjust our normal to get used to this.  I've noticed that I don't even get…

• Steward Your Health - part 2

  Think Eternity

  13 Jan 2012 | 12:43 pm

  As part of this "Steward Your Health" blog series, so that we may live long, and live well for the glory of God and the advancement of the Gospel around the world ... part of protecting our health and our bodies is not only watching what we eat, but eating more of the right kinds of foods. Here is a great, short list of several dozen of Mayo Clinic's most potent, foods that are healthiest for your heart: SalmonOatmealBlack beansAlmondsWalnutsTunaBrown riceSoy milkBlueberriesCarrotsSpinachBroccoliSweet potatoRed bell peppersAsparagusOrangesTomatoesAcorn squash CantaloupeDark…

• Steward Your Health - part 1

  Think Eternity

  11 Jan 2012 | 7:50 pm

  So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. -1 Corinthians 10:31  Although I usually write closely along the lines of evangelism, a holistic Christian understands that their health plays a massive role in how long they are around to proclaim the Gospel on the earth.  A close friend first brought my attention to this verse in 1 Corinthians many years ago, exclaiming, "I get up in the morning, I get dressed for the glory of God and the advancement of His Kingdom. I eat breakfast, I go to work for the glory of God and the advancement of His Kingdom."…

• How Much is Enough?

  Think Eternity

  21 Dec 2011 | 8:21 pm

  Do you ever think to yourself, if I just make "this" much more money, or move into "this or that" position or opportunity, I will be content? You are not alone ... so do the wealthiest 1% in the world, according to a groundbreaking article The Secret Fears of the Super-Rich taken from The Atlantic: "Does great wealth bring fulfillment? An ambitious study by Boston College suggests not. For the first time, researchers prompted the very rich—people with fortunes in excess of $25 million—to speak candidly about their lives. The result is a surprising litany of anxieties: their…

• Where Does God Want to Lead Me?

  Think Eternity

  21 Dec 2011 | 7:58 pm

  It has been so refreshing reading through the Psalms lately, and taking my time while I'm at it. Reading Psalms is like spending time with an old friend - I read Psalms and Proverbs every month for several years of my life. So often I feel I've read Scripture to get through it, and of course the ultimate goal is that it would get through me, but there is something incredibly powerful about slowing down our Scripture reading so we can meditate on it more. So lately, I've been happily reading slower and picking out specific takeaways to chew on throughout the rest of the day.  In recent…

• 

  RobShep.com

• Jesus Is?

  Rob

  27 Jan 2012 | 4:30 am

  Jesus is…?

• Does God Care About Football?

  Rob

  26 Jan 2012 | 4:35 am

  I love Tim Tebow. Love him. I love that he is living out 1 Peter 2:11-12 which says, “Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” As a Christ Follower we are commanded to not make this world our home. That means that we don’t get so comfortable here that we forget that our real home is Heaven. But at the same time we aren’t supposed to…

• I Can’t Support That: Fashion Edition

  Rob

  25 Jan 2012 | 4:41 am

  I tend to challenge the process. I see things and start asking questions about why things are the way that they are. That has led me to a series that I like to call “I Can’t Support That.” I understand that fashions come and go. I wouldn’t call my style hip or trendy. I’d call it comfortable. Now over the years I’ve seen a lot of fashions. There are some that have forced themselves recently onto society and I just can’t support them. Things like… Jeggings. I don’t care how much you weigh if your shirt doesn’t cover your hind parts…

• A Jogger’s Mind

  Rob

  24 Jan 2012 | 4:06 am

  I hate jogging like you would hate hairy hemorrhoids. I don’t know what a hairy hemorrhoid is and I’ve never had a bald hemorrhoid, but I’m assuming we’d all hate em if we had them.  So I hate jogging and yet on Saturday I suffered through jogged 10 miles. What in the wild world of sports would possess me to do such a thing? I’m glad you asked. I’m jogging a half marathon. Up until last week this was just a theory…er hypothesis…er…something I talked about. I had set a goal to run one this year but up until last week I hadn’t put…

• Don’t Be Stupid…Need Other People

  Rob

  23 Jan 2012 | 4:42 am

  So I’m not what you would call handy. I’m more what you’d call paysomeonetofixstuffforme-y. Fixing stuff just doesn’t come natural to me and I get really frustrated when I try. Enter this weeks adventure. I like to call this adventure the time I didn’t have a fat clue how to lower my twin’s cribs. Our twins are at an age where they can potentially crawl and potentially pull themselves out of their crib and splat onto the floor. I say potentially because they haven’t done this but the fear is real that they might. So… For two nights my wife and I…

• 

  News and prayer information from Richard and Pinuccia Wilson

• Meeting week

  Richard Wilson

  22 Jan 2012 | 3:08 pm

  This coming week there are a few special meetings to pray for. Tomorrow night Pinuccia leads a meeting to plan for the children’s camp in June. I should be at the meeting as well, as I will be one of the leaders of the camp, but I will be staying at home with the children. I have already written up my contributions, which Pinuccia will take to the meeting, and I hope that the others will not decide in my absence that I will have to do most of the work to prepare for the camp. On Tuesday there will be a meeting of most of the ECM missionaries in Italy at our house, until I have to leave…

• Trips

  Richard Wilson

  8 Jan 2012 | 2:34 pm

  We arrived back home from Sicily on Friday afternoon. Just enough time to get unpacked, sort the house out, and have a bit of a rest, before the other three go back to school tomorrow. And I get back to preparing Bible studies, other meetings, and programming. As usual, a lot of our time in Sicily was spent with friends and relatives, eating a lot and having late nights. The nights certainly disrupted the children’s usual life style, although in some ways it did make life it a bit easier for me. I tended to go to bed at my normal time, but with the children exhausted and waking up a lot…

• ‘Twas the week before Christmas, and beta 1 arrives in many stockings

  Richard Wilson

  18 Dec 2011 | 4:15 pm

  Like everybody else, this week coming up to Christmas is different from normal. I only have the one Bible study to go to, which will be a more informal affair with a video and eating to finish up the year, before starting a new series on Isaiah in January. On the other hand, there is the band’s biggest concert of the year on Friday night (a co-production with a local dancing school in the town’s indoor sports centre, with more than a hundred performers), so there are some extra rehearsals for that. School for the other three family members ends on Thursday, and there will be a bit…

• Tag team church

  Richard Wilson

  11 Dec 2011 | 9:58 am

  There is a stomach bug going around the schools here. Last week Stefania caught it, and had a couple of days off school. This week Daniele got it on Friday and missed school, including vomiting in the doctor’s car park. Then today he gave it back to Stefania. So no church for them today. Pinuccia was teaching in Sunday School today, so she went to church whilst I stayed home. Then she came back, and I went out to go to the church lunch by myself, and she did Sunday School with the children. With a public holiday last Thursday, and a strike at Stefania’s school tomorrow, they are…

• From Trento to the world

  Richard Wilson

  4 Dec 2011 | 2:43 pm

  During the week I paid my first visit to the international students’ group of the church, which is run in English. In the past it has usually been around half a dozen people, although it has been growing in the last couple of months, and there were 14 there when I went, which was a pleasant surprise. It was good to see, once again, that when there is the need and opportunity to reach out in a new way, that God provides the human resources necessary to develop this witness – an American couple recently moved to Trento. Pray that this group will continue to grow, and will be an…

• 

  Will Mancini

• Great Vision, Bad Execution – 6 Common Mistakes

  Will Mancini

  23 Jan 2012 | 5:08 pm

  It’s a delight to watch teams get clear on the future. But it’s a fright to see that hard work of visioning go south when it comes to execution. If the work of visioning can be compared to taking a journey, there are six mistakes I see most: #1 Spinning Wheel Decision-making. Sometimes a team can have a great vision process only to get bogged down in complex or ineffective decision-making after the fact. On a car ride of a thousand miles, the spark plugs fire a thousands times each mile. If the little steps to make the vision happen don’t fire, you’ll only putter…

• Five Steps for Courageously Tweaking Your Ministry

  Will Mancini

  17 Jan 2012 | 9:17 am

  Step One: Ask “Who?” Consider who created the pattern, the model, “the how” of your particular ministry area or ministry responsibility. Did it come from a book, another church (conference), the previous pastor? Someone was the designer. Who was it? Step Two: Ask “Why?” Consider the motives and the intent of the person who designed the ministry you lead. Why did the originator of the ministry make the decisions they made? Why is your ministry designed the way it is? What problems were they trying to solve? What were their assumptions? Step Three: Ask…

• Taking Vision Public, Step 6: Talking Your Church’s Vision Daily

  Will Mancini

  6 Jan 2012 | 8:24 am

  Drip, drip, drip. It’s constant and you can’t not think about it. I know, I know, it’s a double negative. But haven’t you experienced that when you hear a drip somewhere in your house? You become obsessed with finding the source of the drip. Usually I don’t like using illustrations that have a negative connotation, but the final step to taking vision public is to drip it daily, and this constant dripping is a great way to think about it. Near the end of Church Unique, I describe your leaders as the engine of your vision. Without leaders that are aligned with…

• Taking Vision Public, Step 5: Leveraging Every Medium

  Will Mancini

  5 Jan 2012 | 8:35 am

  I’ve been in a series called Taking Vision Public: Six Steps to Vision-Soaked Communication. We’ve been looking at the steps involved in sharing your unique vision in compelling ways, inviting people to join in and be a part of what God has called you to do and be as a church. Here’s what we’ve covered already: Step 1 – Articulating Your Vision Step 2 – Developing Your Tagline Step 3 – Crafting Your Key Messages Step 4 – Communicating the Big Why Now, it’s time to break out the hose, leveraging every communication medium as an outlet for…

• Taking Vision Public, Step 4: Communicating Your Church’s Big Why

  Will Mancini

  4 Jan 2012 | 8:23 am

  What is it that causes some communication to grab people and stick with them? What is different about communication that causes people to move from being observers of a mission to participants in the mission? The answer, plain and simple is emotion. I once heard it said, “There is no motion without emotion.” I believe that’s true. People get involved with things that they care about – things that connect with them on an emotional level. I’ve mentioned Simon Sinek before and his book, Start with Why, which goes into how this concept of inspiring action by…

• 

  Christian Times Online :: Praise, Worship, Discipleship :: Free Christian Online Newsletter :: 213-325-0977

• A Review Of Our Priorities

  WebPastor

  24 Jan 2012 | 5:30 pm

  When Delay Allows Us to Review Our Priorities “Ah, but a man’s reach should exceed his grasp, Or what’s a heaven for?” ~ Robert Browning, ‘Andrea del Sarto’ One of the most common frustrations of ministry is our desire for things to happen faster than they usually do. We may think they should go faster (and perhaps according to some standards, they should), but they don’t. How do we react? Do we redouble our efforts? Do we work to motivate staff to do more? Do we take projects away from volunteers and staff and drive them forward ourselves? It is hard for…

• A Method To Generate Backlinks

  WebPastor

  31 Oct 2011 | 4:05 pm

  A Powerful Method That Will Generate Backlinks When it comes to getting backlinks to your site there are a lot of methods to consider. Matter of fact you might  want to take into consideration all the methods that are available to you. I am not referring to blackhat  tactics, but legitimate methods of backlinking. What some people do is rely on one “magic method”, but when it comes to getting backlinks to your site, there  really is not one “magic method.” There may be better methods, but there is no longer one method to backlinking.  Depending on how hard it is to…

• Targeted Website Traffic

  WebPastor

  8 Oct 2011 | 2:58 pm

  How Do I get Targeted Website Traffic? Go Where The Target Market Goes Targeted website traffic is without doubt the holy grail of all online businesses, without it you might as well shut up shop and go home.  It doesn’t matter how good your sales copy, your offer, your marketing funnel or your products and services, without visitors of an interested variety you will struggle pure and simple. So much has been written about the subject of targeted website traffic and increasing the visitor count to your site, an awful lot of it good quality information that if implemented could see you…

• Two Homes in Five Days

  WebPastor

  18 Jul 2011 | 6:12 pm

  San Diego Habitat for Humanity Partners with Swinerton Builders to Construct Two Homes in Five Days 2011 Builders Blitz will provide homes for two Oceanside families in need SAN DIEGO, California, July 18, 2011 – From August 1 through August 5, 2011, San Diego Habitat for Humanity, in partnership with Swinerton Builders, will construct two homes – from the ground up – in five days.  This an annual event is called the Home Builders Blitz – construction will take place 24 hours a day and will include nearly 500 volunteers building homes for two families in need in Oceanside. The Home…

• SD Habitat Facebook Contest

  WebPastor

  1 Jul 2011 | 5:17 pm

  San Diego Habitat for Humanity Competing for $25,000 from The Home Depot Foundation in July Facebook Contest SDHFH One of Four Nonprofits Competing in Foundation’s Aprons in Action Program; Winner to Compete for $250,000 in 2012 SAN DIEGO, CA, July 1, 2011 – San Diego Habitat for Humanity (SDHFH) has been selected as a finalist for Aprons in Action, The Home Depot Foundation’s unique Facebook voting program, and now has the opportunity to win a $25,000 gift card from The Home Depot. Voting begins July 1, 2011 and runs through July 31, 2011 at www.facebook.com/homedepotfoundation. The…

• 

  Live To Worship

• Story Church Set List – 22 Jan 2012 #sundaysetlists

  Alastair Vance

  26 Jan 2012 | 10:13 pm

  photo credit: LivingOS Wow!  It was such a powerful morning on Sunday.  The core of the message was the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant.  You can read the whole story in Matthew 18:21-35.  Our Heavenly King paid our debt.  He wiped the slate clean. Because of that we’re expected to forgive others who may wrong us.  The debt we think we’re owed does not even start to compare to the debt Jesus paid on our behalf.  If you read the parable, you can understand why the king was pretty miffed.  After the king showed the servant so much mercy, the servant went…

• Story Church Set List – 15 Jan 2012 #sundaysetlists

  Alastair Vance

  16 Jan 2012 | 9:03 pm

  Your Grace Is Enough (G) – Chris Tomlin Your Love Never Fails (G) – Chris McClarney God With Us (G) – Mercy Me Came To My Rescue (G) – Hillsong How Great Is Our God (G) – Chris Tomlin Related posts: Story Church Set List – 08 Jan 2012 #sundaysetlists Story Church Set List – 22 Jan 2012 #sundaysetlists Story Church Set List – Nov 27 2011 #sundaysetlists

• Story Church Set List – 08 Jan 2012 #sundaysetlists

  Alastair Vance

  16 Jan 2012 | 8:58 pm

  Forever  - Chris Tomlin (A) Like A Lion – Daniel Bashta (A) God Is Able – Hillsong (B) Never Once – Matt Redman (B) Great I Am – New Life Worship (D) Related posts: Story Church Set List – 15 Jan 2012 #sundaysetlists Story Church Set List – Nov 27 2011 #sundaysetlists Story Church Set List – 22 Jan 2012 #sundaysetlists

• God Is In This Place and I Didn’t Even Know It

  Alastair Vance

  13 Jan 2012 | 6:47 am

  Sometimes (ok, a lot of the time) us worship leaders can come away thinking there wasn’t much evidence of God moving/working through the set list or service. It doesn’t matter what we think. I was gently reminded this morning, from reading Genesis 28:16, God can be at work in a big way and I could be totally unaware. Related posts: God, I need You today more than ever… Trust in God God Is the Source of Salvation and Light

• My God Is So Great

  Alastair Vance

  5 Jan 2012 | 5:00 pm

  My God is so great, so strong and so mighty, there’s nothing my God cannot do. Something great happened today. It’s funny that the first song to pop into my head was a kid’s song. Maybe I should introduce it on Sunday and get somebody up to ‘do the actions’? Related posts: Great Tunes: Cranberries – Zombie You alone are God Great Tunes: Freestyler

• 

  Authentic Christian Living

• Lead Me – Story behind the song and your part (video)

  Authentic Christian Living

  19 Jan 2012 | 8:19 pm

  Last year Grammy-nominated, Dove Award-winning Sanctus Real released a song called ‘Lead Me’. The song is a personal confession and prayer written by lead vocalist Matt Hammitt. “My wife and I aren’t shy about sharing that we’ve had some pretty major struggles,” admits Matt after his wife implored him to be a better spiritual leader [...]

• Prayer Leading to 2012

  Authentic Christian Living

  29 Dec 2011 | 8:43 am

    Prayer leading to the new year: Lord, prepare my heart this week for the goals you would have me set for this next year. Soften and change my heart to be open to Your Will in my life, create within me an unquenchable thirst for the Word and the ability to step aside to [...]

• Footnote: The Story of Christmas (Video)

  Authentic Christian Living

  13 Dec 2011 | 8:22 am

  Bible stories are often told like fairy tales; they become larger than life. But the author of the Christmas story included a footnote that firmly plants the story of Jesus’ birth in an historical context. Luke wanted us to know that what “came to pass” was not a fairy tale, but rather the greatest story [...]

• Christmas Movie: The Perfect Gift

  Authentic Christian Living

  7 Dec 2011 | 4:01 pm

  A spoiled schoolgirl (Christina Fougnie), her overworked executive mother (Amy Hess) and a disillusioned young minister (Matt Wallace) each receives an uplifting message about friendship, commitment, and the truest meaning of Christmas from a friendly, but mysterious, drifter named Jess.   Trailer Click here to buy The Perfect Gift (We have it on sale!)

• While You Were Sleeping – Casting Crowns

  Authentic Christian Living

  5 Dec 2011 | 9:37 am

  Fan videos of the Casting Crowns Christmas song While You Were Sleeping The following video is great but may not be appropriate for all ages, as it includes movie scenes of Jesus’s crucifixion. Lyrics Oh little town of Bethlehem Looks like another silent night Above your deep and dreamless sleep A giant star lights up [...]

• 

  Kristine Remixed

• The Road So Far

  kristinemac

  26 Jan 2012 | 7:13 pm

  You are on a  journey. The destination isn't a surprise. You do know where you're going to end up eventually. But it's the trip that's makes you a little unsure. Traveling through unfamiliar territory. You have a map. There are even helpful road signs along the way to let you know you've not gone off the beaten path. And yes, you can see where your'e going for awhile but eventually there is a bend. The road disappears beyond some trees. You have an idea of what lies ahead but there could be something new. Unexpected. What awaits around the corner could be a…

• DVD Review: A Mile in His Shoes

  kristinemac

  21 Jan 2012 | 6:52 pm

  Imagine that you are the manager of a losing, minor league baseball team in Ohio when you run across a pitching phenom by accident—who also happens to have Asperger's Syndrome. How do you convince the kid, his parents, and your team, that being a little different can be a good thing? A Mile in His Shoes (from the director of Angels in the Outfield, starring Dean Cain and Luke Schroder) answers that question in this family film based on the novel The Legend of Mickey Tussler. A Mile in His Shoes is a very sweet film. Strong performances enhance what could otherwise be considered a…

• She Still Calls Him Daddy

  kristinemac

  20 Jan 2012 | 5:46 pm

  Today, I was in the grocery store when I happened to notice a father with his little girl, standing in front of a "Claw" game. They stood before the glass, looking at the various stuffed toys. He seemed to be debating whether to attempt to win a toy for his daughter. As I walked past, the man was digging into his pocket, seeking quarters. The scene took my thoughts back to a time when my own children were small. I think our youngest daughter was five years old. She had been ill, feeling miserable, but then Daddy came home bearing a stuffed toy tiger he'd won for her. The…

• This Is My Joy

  kristinemac

  19 Jan 2012 | 1:35 pm

  The word today is JOY. I was in a women's worship meeting this morning when the thought dropped into my brain.  Worshiping God brings me joy. Deep down in my spirit. A joy like no other. Now, I've written about joy in the past. Discovering the difference between "happiness" and "joy". Recognizing joy through being thankful for the blessings we have. And finding joy in the simple things of life. But today—as I sang at the top of my voice, lifting my hands in worship—I marveled at the beauty and joy of being in God's presence. It doesn't…

• So What Exactly is the Point?

  kristinemac

  18 Jan 2012 | 3:54 pm

  You may have noticed that my blog was dark for the better part of the day today. This is because my husband and I decided to support the SOPA STRIKE. I generally avoid political discussions or posts on Kristine ReMixed. I do have strong opinions on a variety of topics, but this is not the place I share them. However, when it comes to SOPA (and it's counterpart PIPA), I cannot support the arbitrary control and loss of free speech these pieces of legislation could/would enforce. The stated intent is to curb internet piracy by foreign "rogue" sites. Neither of these laws would…

• 

  What I Learned Teaching Sunday School

• Everyone who needs Christ is Called

  Nancy

  19 Jan 2012 | 3:26 pm

  Matthew 11:28-30 28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”Come to me – ALL! God isn’t looking for perfect people, but people who want to be perfected. People who know they need Him. Come!

• Mark 7:14-23

  Nancy

  11 Jan 2012 | 6:53 pm

  Mark 7:14-23 14 Again Jesus called the crowd to him and said, “Listen to me, everyone, and understand this. 15 Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them.” [16] 17 After he had left the crowd and entered the house, his disciples asked him about this parable. 18 “Are you so dull?” he asked. “Don’t you see that nothing that enters a person from the outside can defile them? 19 For it doesn’t go into their heart but into their stomach, and then out of the body.” (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods…

• God Is for Us

  Nancy

  5 Jan 2012 | 12:17 pm

  The following was in our church newsletter this week and I thought it was not only well said, but good to remember:Scripture: Romans 8:31-34 Throughout life, there will be times when our sins and failures lead us to conclude that God is disappointed or angry with us. How can He still love me after what I've done? If I'm really forgiven, why do I still feel so guilty? At such times, we need tofix our eyes on the truth of Scripture and ask the questions Paul posed in Romans 8.If God is for us, who is against us (v.31)? Our heavenly Father proved His loyalty to us when He delivered His own Son…

• John 4:31-38 Doing the Will of God

  Nancy

  7 Dec 2011 | 10:54 am

  31 Meanwhile his disciples urged him, “Rabbi, eat something.” 32 But he said to them, “I have food to eat that you know nothing about.” 33 Then his disciples said to each other, “Could someone have brought him food?” 34 “My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. 35 Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. 36 Even now the one who reaps draws a wage and harvests a crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be…

• 2 Corinthians 6:3

  Nancy

  5 Dec 2011 | 3:40 pm

  We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry will not be discredited.This is something we need to remember every single day. Always consider what our actions say about Jesus!

• 

  Our Rising Sound

• Video: Worst Church Singer – killer falsetto!

  Kyle

  25 Jan 2012 | 10:00 am

  No seriously…he’s killing me with that falsetto. Related posts Worship leaders, don’t chase your mountaintop experience (5) Video: Worst performance of O Holy Night ever! (5) Video: Little kid shows us what “Nu Thang” God is up to (0)

• SNL: Beethoven (funniest skit of the season)

  Kyle

  23 Dec 2011 | 11:17 am

  Related posts Video: Worst performance of O Holy Night ever! (5) Video: Little kid shows us what “Nu Thang” God is up to (0) Video: How not to use a microphone (3)

• You might be a niche blog if…

  Kyle

  31 Oct 2011 | 4:35 pm

  …you come to grips with the fact you aren’t an expert in anything. …you understand that the hour or so you put into thinking about a blog post doesn’t really constitute as “research.” …you don’t try to fit everything into a Top 10 list. …you don’t lose any sleep when you have nothing interesting to post…oh and you don’t post uninteresting things in those cases, which I hereby dub unimaginative blogger tourette syndrome. …you are entirely uninterested in getting a post out to capitalize on the latest controversy.

• 13th Floor: Powerful videos on sexual abuse, trafficking, abortion

  Kyle

  7 Oct 2011 | 12:28 pm

  My pastor, Aaron Dailey, and brother in law, Josh Dailey, run a ministry called Pure Path here in Phoenix and they just released a video teaching series called 13th Floor. These are some of the most powerful, gut wrenching videos I’ve seen about sexual abuse, sex trafficking, abortion and other painful topics. Very proud of these guys as well as those in the videos, most of whom are good friends and/or members of our church, Life Connection Church. We are a small church of 150 when filled, but we have some of the most talented, passionate and committed folks I’ve ever known. They…

• Interview with Braille from Humble Beast

  Kyle

  4 Oct 2011 | 10:30 am

  This past Sunday night Braille from Humble Beast put on a killer show at LCC, along with our very own Lee Green. Braille was nice enough to chat with my good friend/colleague/correspondent Brett Ernenputsch and discuss the state of Christian Hip-Hop, the “rogue warrior” problems that have plagued it and some words of advice and encouragement for young artists. “doing shows at churches becomes part of your business…but you aren’t concerned with the health of the church because you aren’t part of a church…” -Braille [speaking to unsubmitted/unsent…

• 

  Mobile Ministry Magazine (MMM)

• [Guest Post] iBooks Author: It’s Place in an eBook Production Workflow

  Antoine

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  This is a guest post submitted by Craig Button (@TheProdSon) Introduction, Quick Summary Since most of you have no idea who I am, I suppose I should introduce myself. First and foremost I am a believer and follower of Jesus Christ. After that I’m a geek. I’ve owned just about every type of computer ever made and today work on both Mac and PCs depending on what I’m doing. I use both Pages and MS Word, prefer Excel to Numbers, and either PowerPoint or Keynote depending on what I’m doing. I’m a health care provider by profession, an educator by avocation, I’ve…

• Interview with David Palusky of Renew Outreach

  Antoine

  26 Jan 2012 | 9:47 am

  Some time ago, we were invited to the offices of Renew Outreach to help them shape a few initiatives they are working towards which included some understanding of mobile. We spent 2 days meeting, laughing, and scribbling over a whiteboard to some exciting directions for those projects. After that was done, and before leaving their offices, I asked David Palusky, who is the leader/visionary/main catalyst behind Renew Outreach if he’d be up for a short video/audio interview to talk some about Renew Outreach and what they are about. About Renew Outreach From their website: Renew Outreach…

• Church Tech Today’s 6 Great Church Tech Blogs, MMM Refresher

  Antoine

  25 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

• A Mobile Strategy for Life, not Just A Season

  Antoine

  24 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  Earlier this month, I was reading over at the Wapple Blog and a title from one of their posts from the end of last year caught my attention: Mobile Strategy is for Life, not just Christmas. As I pondered how that title rocked me (the content of the article fills in the blanks), its struck me at how with many mobile (Internet, radio, TV) ministry efforts, the tool’s use starts and ends with evangelism. Once the person recieves Christ, essentially both the tech and the people associated with the tech go away. In conversations about similar observations with some others, I’ve heard…

• story4all – Heart Languages and Faith by Ears

  Antoine

  23 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  Last week, we spent some time with Renew Outreach talking about missions in remote areas, literacy, and how mobile is making its way into these very unlikely environments profitably for the Gospel (we’ve got a bit about those folks coming). One of the groups tossed out during one of several conversations was story4all, a podcast-based Christian media group which uses audio streams in the heart/native language of those being preached, spoken to. A bit more about them from their website: …We believe deeply that the Message Jesus delivered was not only brought by Him “wearing…

• 

  Ron Moore's Blog

• Journey Thru the Bible | Exodus 29:45-46 | Devotional

  ronmoore

  28 Jan 2012 | 3:00 am

  Exodus 29:45-46 Then I will dwell among the Israelites and be their God. They will know that I am the LORD their God, who brought them out of Egypt so that I might dwell among them. I am the LORD their God. What god but the living God says to humans, “I will dwell among” you. Gods of religion are so far removed from creation that man spends his life in a futile effort to somehow work his way to the deity. But God says, “I’ll come to you. I want you to know me. I want you to know how much I love you. I want you to know the things I do for you. I want to live among you.” Amazing!

• Journey Thru the Bible | Knowing God Question

  ronmoore

  27 Jan 2012 | 12:00 pm

  Hi Pastor Ron! Thanks for taking the time to answer my question again… I’m looking forward to sharing your response with my small group. I already posted this question in the small group’s “Knowing God” discussion board. So here it is… I’m in the middle of reading chapter 5… am I understanding correctly that in the Triune of God, Jesus is the Word and therefore the work of God?? So, Jesus is then the agent of creation? And then that is also the reason why Jesus took human form too??? Because he is the “work of God”??? I know I…

• Journey Thru the Bible | Exodus 25:1-2 | Devotional

  ronmoore

  27 Jan 2012 | 3:00 am

  Exodus 25:1-2 The LORD said to Moses, “Tell the Israelites to bring me an offering. You are to receive the offering for me from everyone whose heart prompts them to give.” God’s instructions to build the tabernacle were detailed and precise. God said, “Make this tabernacle and all its furnishings exactly like the pattern I will show you” (Exodus 25:9). Then, in the following chapters, God clearly explained the measurements and needed material. But notice in today’s passage that the contributions were left entirely to the worshipper. God did not command people to give, nor…

• Journey Thru the Bible | Exodus 2:18, 3:1 Question

  ronmoore

  26 Jan 2012 | 12:00 pm

  Jennifer asks: A family discussion came up about Moses’ father-in-law. Exodus 2:18 says his name is Reuel, but as you move on to Exodus 3:1, his father-in-law is Jethro. Is it the same guy, different names or two different guys and we just missed something? Jennifer, Great observation! Reuel means “friend of God.” His other name, Jethro, means “his excellency” and probably was a title as opposed to a given name. Great question! Ron    

• Journey Thru the Bible | Exodus 23:24 | Devotional

  ronmoore

  26 Jan 2012 | 3:00 am

  Exodus 23:24 Do not bow down before their gods or worship them or follow their practices. You must demolish them and break their sacred stones to pieces. Other gods have always been a problem for God’s people. Beginning with the first commandment, God clearly warned against spiritual adultery. Bowing down before other gods is foolish, of course. They are temporal images made of stone, wood, metal, and sometimes, skin and bones. So why are the gods of this world so tempting? Well, for starters, humans have a problem with any god, even God. Sin has short-circuited God’s wiring in our…

• 

  the mayward blog

• What Is The Gospel, Really?

  27 Jan 2012 | 10:50 am

  What is the gospel? It's a simple question, but with potentially complex answers. One volunteer guessed that only about a quarter of the students in our ministry could answer it accurately and with any confidence. I felt like that percentage was too low, seeing that one of my core ministry values is the Gospel is everything. Every message I give, every opportunity that comes up, every spiritual conversation, and every prayer comes back to the Gospel for me. It's all about the good news of Jesus. Yet maybe the news isn't getting through. For a missions trip I'm leading this summer, we asked…

• Boring Is Better

  26 Jan 2012 | 7:05 am

  That's the title for an article I wrote for the January/February issue of Immerse Journal. It explores the intersection between faith and film (a subject dear to my heart) with a particular focus on slower "boring" films and how they might be connected to our spiritual formation. An excerpt: Allow me to make two assumptions here:1. None of the students you disciple have viewed The Tree of Life. 2. Nearly all of your students have viewed either Transformers: Dark of the Moon or The Hangover: Part II. Many of us simply accept this as normative. Why is this the case? What are the cultural…

• Why Youth Ministry Programs Aren't Necessarily Bad

  23 Jan 2012 | 9:47 am

  This is one post where I'm not even completely sure that I agree with the idea I'm proposing. But allow me to play the devil's advocate for a moment. Programs. It's like a four-letter word in youth ministry leadership, the necessary evil that we hate to have as part of our ministry. Let's do a word association. What comes to mind when you hear the word "program?" Rigid. Event planning. Administration. Bureaucracy. Curriculum. Boring. Time-consuming. Busyness. Frustration. Those bulletins that tell you the order of a service or event. In the youth ministry world, it's become nearly cliche to…

• Parenting Wisdom For All Ages

  20 Jan 2012 | 8:34 am

  My ministry friend, Brian Berry, just finished a week-long blog series entitled Parenting Toddlers Into Teens You'll Love. It's both theologically-insightful and deeply practical wisdom for parents who have kids at any age. Here are links to all five parts: 1) Protect your kids (care based), don't shelter them (fear based) 2) Teach them how to think (process based), not what to think (product based) 3) Expect them to be maturing (experience based), not to be mature (evaluation based) 4) Help them own their faith (Jesus based), not just obey your faith (rules based) 5) Let them embrace God's…

• Psalm 119 - The All-Church Experiment

  19 Jan 2012 | 9:01 am

  Nearly a year ago, God laid a vision on the hearts of our church leaders to have an extensive time in cultivating a deep love and meaningful time in God's word. That vision has taken fruit this week in the form of a six-week study in the immense acrostic poem, Psalm 119. All the ministries in our church are participating. Everyone. From youngest to oldest. Six weeks. All focusing on the same thing. What could God do if every ministry in a church put aside any other agendas and focused on one important thing? Whether that was Scripture, prayer, sharing the Gospel in the community, or any…

• 

  ChurchLeaders.com

• Why Philosophy Matters (1/5)

  27 Jan 2012 | 9:31 pm

• What Most Pastors Screw Up….

  27 Jan 2012 | 9:29 pm

• Five Simple Ways to Make Your Church Stickier (Part 3 Connection)

  27 Jan 2012 | 9:28 pm

• This Is Something You Will Regret

  27 Jan 2012 | 9:27 pm

• The Myth of Control

  27 Jan 2012 | 9:26 pm

• 

  Don't Eat The Fruit

• PhoneStack: Next Time We Meet, Let’s Do This

  John Dyer

  13 Jan 2012 | 8:50 am

  Tech history professor David Stearns pointed out a post on Kempt magazine about a new idea for social gatherings called PhoneStack. It works like this: as you arrive, each person places their phone facedown in the center of the table. As the meal goes on, you’ll hear various texts and emails arriving… and you’ll do absolutely nothing. You’ll face temptation—maybe even a few involuntary reaches toward the middle of the table—but you’ll be bound by the single, all-important rule of the phone stack. Whoever picks up their phone is footing the bill. As Dr. Stearns points out,…

• The Top 5 Technologies that Will Shape the Church in 2012

  John Dyer

  6 Jan 2012 | 1:19 pm

  It’s another new year, one that is sure to be full of predictions about Mayans, American presidents, and technology. Below are the technologies that I think will be the most powerful shapers of Christian spirituality in the next 360 or so days (inspired in part by Wired’s The Best Five Toys of All Time) 1. The Clock This morning when you woke up, what was the first thing you did? Brush your teeth? Make coffee? Read the Bible? Kiss your spouse? I can almost guarantee it wasn’t any of those things. No, the first thing we do when we wake up (and the last thing we do before falling back…

• The Evolution of the Mobile Phone (as told by Christmas presents)

  John Dyer

  23 Dec 2011 | 8:26 am

  While out shopping with my kids last week, the toy phones caught my eye. I let the kids play with a toy guitar while I rearranged them in roughly chronological order. The original candy bar phones are still available (far left), but I couldn’t find a phone with a cord anywhere in the store. At the high tech end, Fisher Price now sells a “Smilin’ Smart Phone” that looks much like an iPhone. This little evolutionary history lesson seems to show a movement away from the mechanical and physical toward something that mimics it. Early phone had rotary dials and wires, then…

• Dear Technology, Thank You For Cheeseburgers

  John Dyer

  9 Dec 2011 | 7:59 am

  Mashing Play-Doh Last weekend, my kids and I whipped up some home-made Play-Doh. It’s not too hard – all you need is flour, salt, oil, water, cream of tartar, and whatever colors of food coloring you want, and you become super dad. The kids had a blast both making it and playing with it, and afterward I marveled at how much fun it is to make something “from scratch” together. But at the same I starting to realize that I was not really making Play-Doh “from scratch” because, other than water, I have no idea where to get those ingredients other than Wal-Mart. I’m pretty adept at…

• Christmas Technology & Faith Book Buying Guide

  John Dyer

  2 Dec 2011 | 4:38 pm

  While pondering the perfect Christmas present for that someone special, you’ve undoubtedly come to the conclusion that there can be no better gift than a book on technology and faith. But you might be thinking, “There are just so many books are out there – how do I choose the right one for my special someone?” It turns out that Santa’s face is shining upon you, because I’ve put together a special buying guide just for you. The Uber-Intellectual, Tweed Jacket Wearing Brainiac Brian Brock‘s Christian Ethics in an Age of Technology is unparalleled in…

• 

  Nathan Creitz

• Three Reasons To Reach Cities With The Gospel

  nathan.creitz@gmail.com (Nathan Creitz)

  9 Jan 2012 | 1:44 pm

  Tim Keller, the pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City, often speaks about God’s mission for the great cities of the world. Below, I’m including a 16 minute video of Keller’s plenary session at Lausanne Cape Town 2010 Congress in which he shares God’s global urban mission.  Here are a few thoughts from Keller’s talk about why we must reach the great cities of the world with the gospel and a few of my own reasons for sharing the Gospel in New York City specifically. Reason #1: Cultural According to a Foreign Policy article: The 21st century will…

• My Top 11 Posts In 2011 // Plus A Free Gift!

  nathan.creitz@gmail.com (Nathan Creitz)

  29 Dec 2011 | 4:18 pm

  I thought I’d take a minute to thank you for reading, commenting, and sharing my blog posts in 2011! As a way of showing my appreciation, I’d like to give one of my readers a new NIV Archaeological Study Bible from Zondervan. I’ll explain how you can get a copy below. But first, here are my top 11 posts from 2011: Making Disciple-Making Disciples - “Sermons, seminars, and classes need to be extra-curricular to the more risky and time consuming core curriculum of modeling a transformed life in front of others.” Bible Translations, Tools and Tech for the 21st…

• Seth’s Secret to Viral Church Planting

  nathan.creitz@gmail.com (Nathan Creitz)

  2 Dec 2011 | 9:40 am

  If you are involved in church planting and have never heard of Seth Godin, you need to pay attention. Seth Godin Seth writes mostly about new marketing but I think you’ll find his ideas are refreshingly compatible with Biblically healthy church practices. This morning I ran across a post Seth wrote a couple of years ago called First, ten. Check it out and let me know in the comments how his marketing “secret” applies to church planters and leaders: First, ten This, in two words, is the secret of the new marketing. Find ten people. Ten people who trust you/respect you/need…

• Downline Ministries: Making, Maturing, and Multiplying Followers of Jesus

  nathan.creitz@gmail.com (Nathan Creitz)

  29 Nov 2011 | 9:57 am

  I recently ran across Downline Ministries that exists to “equip Christ followers to make disciples”. It looks like they’ve got training resources, books, and articles to help promote making and multiplying disciples. I haven’t really explored their content very deeply but it looks great. Check out this video for a look at what Downline is all about: Can't see the video in your RSS reader or email? Click Here! What do you think? The irony is that I recently wrote a post entitled Disciple Making vs. Downline: Practicing God’s Presence Or Pyramid Scheme. I wrote…

• Arrival in Queens + Church Planting Goals for Week One

  nathan.creitz@gmail.com (Nathan Creitz)

  28 Nov 2011 | 10:32 am

  This is just a quick update to let you know that my family has arrived in Queens and we are settling into a temporary residence while we look for an apartment. God has provided for our immediate financial needs and lots of helpers for the move. Our hope is to find an apartment somewhere in the Flushing, Fresh Meadows, Bayside, or Whitestone neighborhoods. The goal is to make disciples and plant churches in the heart of Queens, NY. We will eventually be working with the North American Mission Board. For now, we are just getting used to the idea that we are now New Yorkers. Today is my first…

• 

  Christian Droid

• Video Of The Week – Double Take

  Sele

  27 Jan 2012 | 3:20 am

  This week I decided to include two different videos for our Video of the Week. First, watch as a father, just home from Iraq, tries to wake his sleeping child.  Don’t you wish you could sleep like this sometime? Next have you ever wondered how the story of the Three Little Pigs would sound if it were written by Shakespeare?  In this video comedian John Branyan tells us. What children’s story would you rewrite using “Shakespearean” English?

• God’s Masterpiece

  Sele

  26 Jan 2012 | 4:06 am

  1 In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. 2 The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.  Gen 1:1-2 ESV This image, just released, was taken by one of NASA’s recently launched satellites.  NASA is calling this “the most amazing high-definition picture of Earth ever taken.”  The image is actually a composite of many different smaller images taken by the earth monitoring satellite.  The details in the original photo are amazing.  With 8000 x 8000…

• This Bus Will Go!

  Sele

  25 Jan 2012 | 9:04 pm

  You might remember that back in October of last year, Sidewalk Prophets sent out the call for help raising money for the down payment on a new tour bus.  Their VanGo had served them well over the years, but all of the miles were beginning to take its toll.  After being put down on the road multiple times they had decided that something needed to change.  The band needed a safe way for them and their families to travel to the many shows that they do around the country spreading the love of Jesus Christ through their music. The goal was to raise $30,000 for the down payment during the month…

• Till Death Do Us Part

  Sele

  25 Jan 2012 | 3:23 am

  “Till death do us part.”  Today these words  may seem to many like so many other words strung together to make a sentence.  To some these words have about the same commitment as, “Would you go to dinner with me?”   But according to the Worldwide Marriage Encounter, a faith-based marriage enrichment program, there are some that do take these vows seriously.  In an effort to give young couples something to strive for, they have recently named Wilbur & Theresa Faiss of Las Vegas as the longest married couple in the United States. On April 14, 1933 the…

• Are You Looking Up Or Down?

  Sele

  24 Jan 2012 | 4:05 am

  Today I have a little story to tell.  And I would like to change the names to protect the innocent me, but I have not.  Yesterday after I arrived at work, my wonderful wife called me to tell me that she had heard from the people who work on our air conditioning/heater unit.  We had been having some problems with it and had called them in last week to see what was wrong with it.  We had discussed earlier that it was probably going to have to be replaced but we were waiting to hear from the experts. The news was as we had feared.  The entire unit needed to be replaced.  It has run its…

• 

  The BIGBible Project

• 6 Ways A Phone Can Change Your Bible (Part 1) #digidisciple (@tim_hutchings)

  bigbible

  28 Jan 2012 | 3:30 am

  http://www.youversion.com/press What is a Bible? A few years ago, everyone knew the answer: a Bible was a book, very thick, with really thin pages. Now? People are still buying books, sure, but that’s just one option among many. You can read the Bible online in any number of different designs and styles, with hundreds of translations and commentaries right there on the same site. You can download a Bible app to your phone and keep it in your pocket wherever you go, typing in your own notes and tweeting your favourite verses.  You can get yourself an audio Bible instead and keep the whole…

• Giving of Yourself #digidisciple (@changingworship)

  Robb

  27 Jan 2012 | 12:30 pm

    http://12baskets.co.uk/view/images/kingfisher The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.” John 1:43 Do you remember that day when you first felt a pull on the inside when you hear the words “follow me”?  That moment where it you felt it was more important to head in a different direction and give something of yourself.  Well some days you come across a news article that makes you have a rethink about what it means to give of yourself. When a south London secondary school asked for an inspiring guest speaker to talk to their…

• 5 steps to feedprayers… #digidisciple (@mrblunders)

  mrblunders

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:30 am

  Image provided by Steve Greetings once again! Last time I wrote we were a couple of days away from Christmas and this time we are a few days away from the end of the first month of 2012 and the dreaded tax deadline. If you are knee deep in receipts then my thoughts and prayers are with you. This year I was actually efficient and got mine done early (sorry to brag!).  But, while we’re on the theme of praying for others I would like to take five minutes of your time and talk to you about a new prayer idea I have developed. It’s called feedprayers…and does what it says on the tin. It…

• Press Release: The Big Read offers a spiritual feast for Lent #BigRead12

  bigbible

  27 Jan 2012 | 2:31 am

  Christians across Britain are preparing to take fresh look at Mark’s Gospel as they get involved in the 2012 Big Read. The Big Read started in North-East England in 2010, bringing together Christians from different churches to study Luke for Lent – a book written by the former Bishop of Durham, Tom Wright. In 2011, the Big Read went digital and national, making full use of the social media that many of us use every day. Over 24,000 people engaged on the Project website over Lent, others chatted on social media, 5,000 accessed the book via YouVersion’s smartphone app, and nearly…

• What do your Avatars, Profile Pics, Timelines and Cover Pages say about you?

  bigbible

  26 Jan 2012 | 10:00 am

  What does your profile picture say about you? What about your avatar? or your facebook cover page? Some time ago Ben Myers (from the excellent blog Faith and Theology) shared some thoughts towards the development of a Theology of the Avatar in a post titled Once more on the self in cyberspace: a theology of avatars. He suggested that the visual representation of ourselves online – whether it is the profile picture we choose or the 2 or 3D avatar that represents us – is not a mere representation but rather an extension of ourselves. This distinction has some powerful implications; although…

• 

  Children's Ministry Online

• Talking leadership in Dallas-Fort Worth

  Kenny

  27 Jan 2012 | 3:48 pm

  Next Thursday I’m heading up to Dallas-Forth Worth for a day to connect with Children’s Pastors and leaders from several large ministries. I’m really excited to partner with Greg Baird and speak, lead some conversations and learn from others on the subject of leadership within the context of leading in large churches. The brains behind Worlds of Wow have put together a unique event at Gateway Church in Southlake, TX and I’m pretty pumped. It’s not too often when you’re in a room with other leaders who all lead at the same capacity or greater than you.

• Quickly gathering contact information

  Kenny

  26 Jan 2012 | 12:52 pm

  Last night I had the opportunity to speak to the High School group here at Gateway. It was my second time ever to speak to High School students, my first time in about 9 years. It went well, despite my apprehension speaking to High School students. However, as I’ve been very involved in our student ministry this past year, I’ve been concerned about the lack of information that we have on our students. Last year as we needed to quickly promote our student ministry camp, I found that we literally had no contact information for our High School students. Since most of their parents…

• Make it easy for parents to win!

  Kenny

  25 Jan 2012 | 12:42 pm

  I think my last big take-away from the Orange Tour was this little concept. Make it easy for parents to win! In Think Orange, Reggie describes the four levels of parenting. Aware – These are parents who may be outside your church. Studies have shown that most parents are aware that the moral and even spiritual development of a child is their responsibility. Involved – These are parents who are in our churches. They’re around, maybe following Christ, but they’re not really doing anything intentional with their kids. Engaged – These are parents who…

• New Kidmin book coming in 2012

  Kenny

  24 Jan 2012 | 2:14 pm

  I have to say that I’m really excited about a new book coming out in a few months. Really excited! Yes, I did help write the book. But that’s not why I’m so excited. I’m excited because I believe that it’s a book that is going to impact a lot of people in Kidmin. Shoot, it might impact a lot of people in student ministry and other ministries as well. Why? Because I feel that it approaches the nitty gritty issues that every pastor/minister deals with… the tension they live in on a daily basis and it offers hope. The book is written in a very personal way…

• We are stewards of timeless truths

  Kenny

  24 Jan 2012 | 10:10 am

  On more than one occasion, I heard Reggie say this line last week at the Orange Tour. We are stewards of timeless truths. What I think is interesting is that I often hear people complain about Orange curriculum Usually I hear people complaining from the point of view that there isn’t enough Bible in it. The funny thing is that I have people on my own staff who at times complain that the curriculum is too church. Honestly, there’s no such thing as a perfect curriculum and that alone isn’t reason enough to go out and start writing your own. Curriculum was made to be…

• 

  You Begin Here

• Is Porn so Bad?

  Paul Luna

  25 Jan 2012 | 1:56 pm

  Is porn so bad?  Is it not a private matter?  It’s not hurting anyone so why not let it go?  Just because someone looks at porn does not mean it is affecting their relationships, does it? What’s so wrong about porn? We live in a world where men between the ages of 18 and 34 [...]

• The One You Love

  Paul Luna

  18 Jan 2012 | 4:38 pm

  Do you realize that the Bible does have different standards?  God gives husbands one set of standards and wives a completely different set of standards.  It is easy to miss this different set of standards in a quick reading of scripture, but when one realizes the significance these two verses it can redefine ones marriage, [...]

• Why Christians Should be Amongst the Occupy Wall Street Protesters

  Paul Luna

  19 Oct 2011 | 12:48 am

  “We live in an era that questions authority.” John McArthur. Today, at this moment in history, Americans are frustrated, uncertain, tired and scared. The American dream is crumbling in front of them, finical security is waning, uncertainty is looming and the people are voicing their concern.  Since September 17, 2011 Occupy Wall Street has been [...]

• Was Steve Jobs a Christian and Where is He Today?

  Paul Luna

  6 Oct 2011 | 12:54 pm

  There is no doubt in the minds of many that Steve Jobs was a brilliant and intuitive visionary that made technology accessible and fun. Never had phones, listening devices and computers been so hip till the introduction of the iPhone, iPod and iMac.  However, Jobs is dead and many are left wondering, where is Steve [...]

• Making the Greater Impact

  Paul Luna

  22 Sep 2011 | 2:23 am

  As I sat at the table with several friends, who are involved in ministry, we chatted about our ministries, happenings in our community and finally the ministry of some of the pastors of the biggest mega churches we know of in the United States.  “Did you know Rick Warren was cooking up burgers for everyone [...]

• 

  samluce.com

• Best Attendance

  samluce

  27 Jan 2012 | 7:40 am

  Youth pastors of America I want to tell you a little bit about my newest sponsor, Best Attendance. Best Attendance is a new website allowing youth leaders to take attendance, share event calendars, communicate with youth, and update membership rosters online. The software helps you increase accountability in your group by providing graphical, customizable attendance reports that help you identify any members at risk of falling through the cracks. There are several ways of taking attendance, including using a barcode reader, printing sign-in forms, or letting members sign in on a computer. The…

• Guerrilla Parenting: Teach your kids that connections are more important than commitment

  samluce

  26 Jan 2012 | 8:22 am

  Here is the first post talking about how to ensure your kids will end up on “The Bachelor”  If you want to ensure your kids will be on the “The Bachelor” 1. Never show your daughter physical affection. 2. Teach your kids that connections are more important than commitment. 3. Teach your kids there is no consequences for their behavior. 4. Give your kids whatever they want. 5. Teach your kids that their self-worth is tied to peoples acceptance of them. The next thing ever parent must do to ensure that their kids will end up on “The Bachelor” is teach them that…

• Guerrilla Parenting: Never show your daughter physical affection.

  samluce

  25 Jan 2012 | 10:47 am

  Here is the first post talking about how to ensure your kids will end up on “The Bachelor”  If you want to ensure your kids will be on the “The Bachelor” 1. Never show your daughter physical affection. 2. Teach your kids that connections are more important than commitment. 3. Teach your kids there is no consequences for their behavior. 4. Give your kids whatever they want. 5. Teach your kids that their self-worth is tied to peoples acceptance of them. One of the biggest problems in our country is fatherlessness. Now am I advocating that every girl that comes from a…

• Guerrilla Parenting: How to ensure your kids will be on “The Bachelor”

  samluce

  25 Jan 2012 | 6:28 am

  A while back I got hooked for one season of The Bachelor I watched one whole season. That is about 20 hours of my life I’ll never get back. As I was watching the final episode. This thought came to me and I tweeted it “If any of my kids ever appear on the “The Bachelor” then I will have failed as a parent” I thought it would be fun to do a few posts that will help you ensure your kids will be on “The Bachelor.”  I will list them here and break them down over the next few days. If you want to ensure your kids will be on the “The Bachelor”…

• Are you a curious leader or a fearful leader?

  samluce

  23 Jan 2012 | 6:41 am

  I am reading a book about leading teams this chapter on fear vs. curiosity got me thinking about how I lead and the importance of staying curious as a leader. We often coach two very different kinds of leaders. The first is not curious and, I would say, is often driven by fear. Whenever observations and feedback are given, the uncurious leader responds with defensiveness and rationalizations. With these leaders there are no questions, only hurt silence, quiet passivity, or statements designed to protect themselves. The second type of leader is curious. These leaders respond from a position of…

• 

  jeff mikels

• He Came

  Jeff

  31 Dec 2011 | 11:10 pm

  Jesus came as Prophet to bring the Word of God to us. Jesus came as Priest to represent us to the Father. Jesus came as SON to bring us into God’s family Jesus came as Savior to take away our sin. Jesus came as King to receive our submission. to have 1-4 without 5 is pointless mercy to have 5 without 1-4 is Islamic legalism to have them all together is the beautiful harmony of grace

• The Church: Can you be a Christian without going to church?

  Jeff

  30 Nov 2011 | 3:29 pm

  This post is part of a series investigating the most important items of Christian doctrine. View all posts by clicking here or the DOGMA tag above. This past Sunday, I ended our service by taking some live questions from the congregation, but I wasn’t able to address all the questions live. Therefore I’m tackling some of them through this blog. Does this mean that you cannot be a Christian unless you go to church? The simple answer is that you can be a Christian without going to church if you define “Christian” to mean “I have been saved.” (Salvation does…

• The Church: Why Sundays?

  Jeff

  30 Nov 2011 | 3:11 pm

  This post is part of a series investigating the most important items of Christian doctrine. View all posts by clicking here or the DOGMA tag above. This past Sunday, I ended our service by taking some live questions from the congregation, but I wasn’t able to address all the questions live. Therefore I’m tackling some of them through this blog. If the church is the community of believers who are to be continually gathering and working to build the kingdom, why do we meet on Sunday mornings the way we do? How does this fit and/or conflict with the picture of the church in Acts? One…

• The Father: God’s will and human freedom

  Jeff

  2 Nov 2011 | 4:48 pm

  This post is part of a series investigating the most important items of Christian doctrine. View all posts by clicking here or the DOGMA tag above. At the end of our service last Sunday, I took some live questions from the congregation. An interesting pattern revealed itself. Here are all the questions that came in: How do you mix all knowing, all powerful, and free will? Do we mess up his plan? Or does he choose not to know what we are doing so as not to compromise our free will? Can you expand the reality of God’s power & righteousness as it applies to being in or…

• DOGMA: Understanding the Father

  Jeff

  2 Nov 2011 | 2:50 pm

  This post is part of a series investigating the most important items of Christian doctrine. View all posts by clicking here or the DOGMA tag above. On Sunday, we addressed the third statement from the Lafayette Community Church Statement of Faith, but before we can look at it, we need to consider the relationship between human language and the reality of God. The Limits of Our Language What thoughts come to mind when you think of God? What images come to you? Is he some old man sitting on a throne? Do you imagine him in the ways of Greek mythology, like Zeus holding a lightning bolt and…

• 

  TimSchraeder.com

• Donald Miller on Evangelism

  Tim Schraeder

  27 Jan 2012 | 7:54 pm

  This weekend Donald Miller is guest speaker at Lake Forest Church. Here are some notes from a talk he gave on evangelism. Great convicting thoughts! Donald Miller became best known through his New York times bestseller, Blue Like Jazz, the story of his experience at Reed College, voted at that time as “the most godless campus in the country.” Since then Don has written other best sellers: Searching for God knows What andA Million Miles in a Thousand Years (the story of his writing of the screenplay for Blue Like Jazz-the movie). In the fall of 2011, Don created The Storyline…

• Looking for Hope in the House of Blues

  Tim Schraeder

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:21 pm

  This weekend I’m in Charlotte with some of the Church Solutions Group team helping Lake Forest Church celebrate the grand opening of their new worship space and the kickoff of their “Hope in the House of Blues” series featuring gospel and blues artist Mike Farris and best-selling author and speaker Donald Miller. Needless to say it’s a big weekend for them and I’m excited to be here. Read more about Lake Forest’s story here. Lake Forest is hosting a leadership weekend congruent with the other festivities, welcoming pastors and church leaders from 11…

• The Unofficial Elephant Room Conference Notebook

  Tim Schraeder

  25 Jan 2012 | 9:29 pm

  If you missed The Elephant Room  or want a handy resource with all of my notes from the day, check out my Conference Notebook, a PDF with over 40 pages of notes from the conversations that happened! Check out insights from some of the great conversations that happened today with James MacDonald, Mark Driscoll, T.D. Jakes, Steven Furtick, Crawford Loritts, Wayne Cordeiro and Jack Graham. Click here to download my Elephant Room Conference Notebook. Feel free to pass this along and share it with others. Huge thanks to Luke MacDonald for letting me serve as a blogger, and to Pastor James and…

• The Elephant Room :: Speed Round

  Tim Schraeder

  25 Jan 2012 | 4:01 pm

  In the final round of conversations at The Elephant Room, all of the speakers came around the table to give their one-sentence answers to these questions. How did you come to know Jesus? Crawford: I was 13.5, my sister surrendered to Christ and invited me to church… Steven: I got dragged to a Baptist revival when I was 16 and I was confronted with what it meant to have an authentic relationship with Jesus. Wayne: I thought Christians were freaky but God used a Christian music group to open my heart. James: When I was 7, February of 1967, after a Sunday night service with his family.

• Steven Furtick & James MacDonald on Relationships :: The Elephant Room

  Tim Schraeder

  25 Jan 2012 | 3:25 pm

  We Can Work It Out What responsibilities do we have to local pastors who exist outside our theological boundaries, but within the body of Christ? How do you confront a brother in error while showing fidelity to truth, and to the truth about biblical relationship? Given the freedom to preach your conscience, is there anywhere you wouldn’t preach? Does a pastor’s association really communicate endorsement, or is that just a carryover from fundamentalism? How can pastors practically encourage/challenge those who are different than they are? How do the benefits of broader community weigh…

• 

  What Christians Want To Know

• How to Stop Worrying: 7 Tips for Christians

  David

  28 Jan 2012 | 5:00 am

  When we feel that things are out of our control we tend to worry but how do you stop worrying?  Most of the awful things we imagine will happen never do. We can be thankful for that. We should... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• Bible Verses About Fear: 22 Scriptures To Study

  Pam

  27 Jan 2012 | 5:00 am

  In the Old Testament of the Bible fear is translated from ten Hebrew nouns and eight verbs [1].  The New Testament uses four Greek words. Generally when we think of fear we might equate it to... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• 10 Great Prayers For Courage

  David

  26 Jan 2012 | 5:00 am

  There are many great prayers in the Bible that can be read and studied to help you know how to pray for strength. Though one of the stories mentioned below doesn’t contain the text of the prayer the... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• 10 Best Michael W. Smith Songs

  Pam

  25 Jan 2012 | 5:00 am

  Michael W. Smith has been writing songs for nearly fifty years. That’s because, although he is little more than fifty years old at the time of this writing, he wrote his first song when he was only... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• Inspirational Scriptures and Poems for Funerals

  Pam

  24 Jan 2012 | 5:00 am

  Sometimes we must do the sad work of preparing a funeral service. This service may be in a mortuary chapel, a church or even at a graveside. Generally, the service is led by a funeral director or a... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• 

  Practical Youth Ministry

• Winterfest-They Did What?!!

  Brandon

  23 Jan 2012 | 9:19 pm

  There was a notable buzz among students and youth ministers about the skits that were ongoing during Winterfest 2012. What Happened: The skit followed a teenage girl through her discovery of spiritual disciplines. The discovery involved multiple dialogues with her male youth minister. At times they were alone at the church, talking on the phone late at night, having a private coffee date, and on a one-on-one walk in the woods. There are innocent people is this world who have no problem with the relationship that was modeled. They may perceive the youth minister as a spiritual uncle, older…

• Parents Support Teen Spiritual Discipline

  Brandon

  21 Jan 2012 | 7:15 am

  Spiritual disciplines are the focus of the Winterfest 2012 conference in Arlington for teenagers. This event is all that I would hope for in a crash course on a relationship with God, but I believe what will make or break the success of the event is parent support. 3 Reasons for Parents to Support Teen Spiritual Disciplines Spiritual discipline brings greatest possible health to every area of life, in every stage of life, in every circumstance of life. Spiritual discipline gives your teen a relationship with someone who will never break up, divorce, abuse, manipulate, mislead, or abandon…

• Imagination Key to Discipline

  Brandon

  19 Jan 2012 | 8:25 am

  Daniel Goldstein presents a timely message for those struggling to keep their New Year’s resolutions. If there is a group that needs to harness a vivid imagination to empower sacrificial decisions, overcoming an immediate gratification culture, it is the U.S. teenager… and me. Listen to the first 5-7 minutes. It will be well worth your time. How do we engage the imagination to empower students to engage in spiritual discipline?

• It’s Okay To Bully

  Brandon

  14 Jan 2012 | 8:35 pm

  It’s Okay to Bully If someone is different from you It’s okay to bully. If you don’t like the way they dress You can make fun of them. If you disagree with their lifestyle You can mock them. If they do something that bothers or upsets you You can gang up and take revenge. Sometimes these behaviors lead to suicide, depression, and murder. But in our popular culture these behaviors KNOWN as BULLYING are okay As long as the object is a Christian. Right? Related Posts Bullied to Death

• Relevant Youth Ministry Training

  Brandon

  12 Jan 2012 | 8:36 am

  As you get ready to register for conferences and other continuing education opportunities, does it make a difference if the keynote speaker is currently a youth minister? It is helpful to hear experts in research, publishing, blogging, and non-profits like International Justice Mission and Charity Water. I enjoy listening to famous authors, athletes, and academicians. I gain wisdom from people who used to do youth ministry or run organizations that serve those in youth ministry. But for me, potent youth ministry training comes from those who are doing youth ministry. The elders, parents, and…

• 

  beyond the noise

• Sunday Setlist: January 22, 2012

  Matthew Starner

  24 Jan 2012 | 10:27 am

  We started a new series a week ago called Going Beyond Our Comfort Zone, looking at things like Sharing Your Faith, Growing in Faith, Giving and others. We found a great graphic over at CreationSwap.com that plays off of a Twilight Zone theme, because going beyond your comfort zone can feel a lot like going into the twilight zone! This week, we looked at Growing In Our Faith. This was a bit of a challenge because many people who regularly attend church feel like a message like this is just for those who are new to Christianity. They’ll tune out and decide that there’s nothing for…

• 5 Ways to Use Technology at Church

  Matthew Starner

  17 Jan 2012 | 2:07 pm

  In case you might not have picked up on it, I’m a fan of technology. I’m also very pro technology when it comes to church and leveraging that technology to make things interactive, engaging and user-friendly. So if your church isn’t on the technology train yet or you’re wondering if there’s something new that you might be missing, here’s some places to start: 5. Get On Facebook Unless you’ve been under a technological rock for the last 5 years, Facebook is pretty much the biggest thing since, well, the internet. Right now, Facebook boasts some 800…

• Taking my next steps

  Matthew Starner

  10 Jan 2012 | 9:32 am

  At Journey, our mission is about helping people take their next step. For us as a church that usually means taking a next step in their relationship with Jesus, and EVERYone has a next step. When we stay in one place too long things start to stagnate – and that goes for all aspects of life, not just spiritual. That’s why last fall, I decided to take a next step in my life. I decided to go back to school and continue my education. It’s something I’ve thought about doing for some time but never really knew how I was going to make it work. Working full-time in ministry is…

• Sunday Setlist – January 1, 2012

  Matthew Starner

  1 Jan 2012 | 3:24 pm

  2012 is here and starting it with worship on New Year’s Day was the right way to begin! This is the first time since Journey of Faith began that New Year’s Day has fallen on a Sunday and we’ve never done a New Year’s Day service before, so I didn’t know what to expect. It ended up being a light service, but still a great time of worship. Our Setlist this Sunday: All We Need, Charlie Hall Your Grace Is Enough, Matt Mahar Glorious One, Steve Fee The Message All Glory, Tim Hughes Offering & Prayers Everyday, Joel Houston Music this week focused on God’s…

• Sunday Setlist – Christmas Edition

  Matthew Starner

  27 Dec 2011 | 9:38 am

  Merry [two days after] Christmas! It always amazes me how fast Christmas comes and goes and that all the plans and preparations for Christmas are over. I hope your celebrations of Christ’s birth were filled with his Spirit! I’m going to cover all three Christmas worship services in this edition, so hold on and prepare for lots of Christmas music! First up, the Christmas Eve Family Service at 6:30pm. We designed this service for families and children. We kept it short, entertaining and fun. We used a skit we found here and adapted it to fit the number of kids we had. It was…

• 

  The Long View

• Stratfor 2012: A Generational Shift

  Justin Long

  27 Jan 2012 | 2:46 pm

  Stratfor’s annual forecast for 2012 is out, and for a limited time is readable online without a subscription. It’s fascinating because Stratfor projects the world is in a “generational shift” similar to the one that occurred in 1989-91. That particular shift, of course, happened as GenX (1965-85) was coming into adulthood. I, for example, voted for the first time in the ’88 election, and remember quite well the events of the period. This shift (2012-) comes as Millennials are moving into significant power. The oldest of them are 27 (depending on which numbers you…

• Boko Haram 3

  Justin Long

  27 Jan 2012 | 2:10 pm

  More articles related to Boko Haram in Nigeria. Boko Haram: local phenomenon, not a global threat (BBC UK): good analysis of elements of the group. Interestingly, “Muslim communities in the north of Nigeria, where Boko Haram operates, see themselves as increasingly threatened by the strident Christianity that dominates the south.” President Goodluck says he will open a dialogue if members of Boko Haram identify themselves, but they refuse, threaten him, and “operate with no face.” UN: Arms from Libya could reach Boko Haram (Reuters) Benue is upgrading security around places of worship…

• Drones with a license to kill

  Justin Long

  27 Jan 2012 | 1:42 pm

  The Future of Warfare, John Robb, Global Guerrillas. Autonomous drones with 2-ton weapon bay: they can make their own “kill decision.” Very worrying, esp. if this tech gets out to more oppressive nations.

• Iran sanctions, oil rises, impact

  Justin Long

  27 Jan 2012 | 1:40 pm

  On January 23rd, the EU agreed to new sanctions against Iran, including “an unprecedented embargo on Iranian crude oil.” The embargo would likely affect Italy, Spain and Greece the most—and these are countries are also embroiled in the debt crisis. Iran says it doesn’t need to sell oil to the EU, and has threatened its own ban on EU oil exports and military action to close the Strait of Hormuz (through which passes 20% of the world’s oil). Any closure of Hormuz would not only impact Iranian oil, but Saudi oil as well, and so the US has threatened response and a military crisis could…

• Startups, Tribes, Roles, Recruiting

  Justin Long

  27 Jan 2012 | 12:48 pm

  Startup Tribes: Tips on Roles and Recruiting is an interesting article cross-relating “tribes” to “business teams.” Maybe some of this can be cross-related to pioneer ministry startups?

• 

  The Inclusive Church

• 2012 Orange Conference Special Needs Track

  AmyFentonLee

  18 Jan 2012 | 3:44 pm

  Mark your calendars for April 25th- 27th, 2012 to be at the Gwinnett Arena  oustide Atlanta, GA.  Below are the workshops slated to be part of the Special Needs track for OC12.  Registration for the below preconference breakouts and workshops are not yet open.  ETA for preconference and workshop registration is 02/01/12. HOW TO: Create a Special Needs Ministry Environment - Meaghan Wall In this session will walk through the details to consider as you create a safe and sensory rich ministry environment.   Ideas will be offered for every budget and so that you can make your existing…

• When the Children’s Pastor is Impacted by Special Needs

  AmyFentonLee

  17 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am

  Kristy Moser and I became friends last year when we were both slated to teach inclusion workshops at a children’s ministry conference.  We immediately bonded on both a professional and personal level and have since worked together on a number of projects.  For the past six years Kristy has served as the Early Childhood Pastor for Crosstown Children’s Ministry at Montgomery Community Church in Cincinnati, OH.   Part of her responsibilities include overseeing the church’s special needs ministry, which serves 26 children and families each week. This past summer, Kristy…

• When a Child Shows Signs of Autism – Part 3

  AmyFentonLee

  13 Jan 2012 | 7:31 am

  Today is the last in a series of three posts addressing whether or not a children’s ministry team should address a suspected autism diagnosis with parents of a participating child.  In Part 1 I shared two variances of a similar question churches often ask related to this question and the background on why churches seek guidance.  In Part 2, I talked through the issue of whether or not it is the church’s responsibility to alert parents to a potential learning disability, such as autism. In this post we’ll dive into the issue of addressing the concerns in light of a…

• When a Child Shows Signs of Autism – Part 2

  AmyFentonLee

  12 Jan 2012 | 7:31 am

  It is not uncommon to have a child participating in the typical the children’s ministry environment that exhibits behaviors associated with autism.  Oftentimes the child’s parents have not alerted the kidmin team of any diagnosed or suspected learning difference.  Inevitably, the child’s teachers and ministry leaders deliberate whether or not they should share their observations with the child’s family.  Every situation is different and requires earnest prayer for discernment.  There is no perfect answer for how to handle any individual child, family or church.  However the…

• When a Child Shows Signs of Autism – Part 1

  AmyFentonLee

  11 Jan 2012 | 7:31 am

  In late 2008 I wrote a short magazine article to help caring friends support parents who have a child with special needs.  Not long after I wrote that article (which eventually ran in a 2009 issue of Atlanta Parent Magazine), I wondered how churches were doing at providing support to families impacted by special needs.  I soon learned there was a need for a bigger conversation on this topic and I shifted my writing focus to the area of my primary love, ministry.  It wasn’t long before I found a new passion and created a full-time hobby of researching and writing on special needs…

• 

  RevTrev.com

• Be Encouraged By: 1 John 4:7

  revtrev

  22 Jan 2012 | 11:36 am

  Meditate, Memorize, or Simply Be Encouraged By: 1 John 4:7 Subscribe to My Newsletter Download How to Steward Your Destiny Your Best Email:  Powered by Subscribers Magnet

• Be Encouraged By: 1 John 3:21-22

  revtrev

  21 Jan 2012 | 11:33 am

  Meditate, Memorize, or Simply Be Encouraged By: 1 John 3:21-22 Subscribe to My Newsletter Download How to Steward Your Destiny Your Best Email:  Powered by Subscribers Magnet

• Lord Willing and the Creek Don’t Rise

  revtrev

  20 Jan 2012 | 11:49 am

  A big welcome to all the new subscribers to revtrev.com, LifeAbovetheNegativity.com, and Twitter Tips this week. I don’t know how you managed to do it with my old host suspending my websites and the issues I’ve had transferring the sites. I’m glad you did though…and yes, everyone who emailed me I’ll do my best to get back to you before the end of today. Who knows what the weekend holds? Lord Willing and the Creek Don’t Rise I grew up in a small town and there are colourful characters in small towns I always enjoyed talking to. I remember a few of them would leave off any…

• Real Marriage by Mark and Grace Driscoll Reviewed by RevTrev

  revtrev

  18 Jan 2012 | 11:40 am

  I was happy to get my advanced reader’s copy of Real Marriage by Mark and Grace Driscoll. I only have a little bit of knowledge of what they’ve been doing at MarsHill Church in Seattle, so I really didn’t know what they were going to say. I appreciate the “principles-not-method” approach they consistently remind the reader of. I appreciate the candid-ness of their story. I appreciate their reliance on the word of God. Here’s a bit about my experience reading the book…   The video trailer for the book is here… Do I recommend the book? I’ve…

• Can God Amplify Your Story? – RevTrev Radio (Part 4)

  revtrev

  17 Jan 2012 | 10:52 am

  Get the courage to do what you can. Can God Amplify Your Story? – RevTrev Radio (Part 4) We all know people who have given up on Christianity. Some have even gone over to the enemy’s camp. Have you ever wondered what it would take to get them back? You’ve got to hear this message based on an incredible passage of Scripture that will make you pray, “Lord do it once more through me!” Listen Now >>> Download audio file (amplify4.mp3) Download the Entire Message Listen to: Part 1  Part 2  Part 3 Subscribe to My Newsletter Download How to Steward Your Destiny Your Best…

• 

  Nate Fietzer .:. Leading the Future

• An Interview with Jon Gordon on Leadership

  Nate Fietzer

  23 Jan 2012 | 7:00 pm

  Recently I was afforded the awesome opportunity of interviewing Jon Gordon. Jon is a husband, father, and author. His best-selling books and talks have inspired readers and audiences around the world. He is the author of The Wall Street Journal bestseller The Energy Bus, as well as The No Complaining Rule, Training Camp, The Shark and The Goldfish, Soup: A Recipe to Nourish Your Team and Culture, and his latest book The Seed: Finding Purpose and Happiness in Life and Work. I could literally write pages and pages about all Jon’s accomplishments from sharing his principles with NFL Teams…

• Jade Raven Design – Review

  Nate Fietzer

  23 Jan 2012 | 6:02 pm

  Contrary to the belief that has floated around the office I am no graphic artist. As a matter of fact, a couple of months ago I put out feelers on several networks for a graphic artist to create a logo for me. A logo for my blog no less. Within a few days I had a huge list of people interested in this project. With this project opportunity I requested the designers to show me a portfolio of past work. I gotta say that several of the designers had amazing portfolios and so I offered the project to several designers with the understanding that whoever comes back with the best design would get…

• My Top 5 Productivity Android Apps

  Nate Fietzer

  22 Jan 2012 | 7:54 pm

  Android phones to me are all about productivity. Not saying that Apple phones aren’t … I am just a PC guy and as of the writing of this post, nobody has convinced me that Apple is better. So with that being said, I would like to share with you what I would consider my Top 5 Productivity Android Apps. Planning Center Online This app is one of my focal apps. Our children’s ministry (and worship ministry) utilizes “Planning Center Online” for scheduling, service planning and communication with our teams. This one small app will not only show me the serving schedule…

• Unforgettable Moments Of The Week

  Nate Fietzer

  6 Jan 2012 | 10:24 pm

  Would like to share with you some “Unforgettable Moments Of The Week”. This is what Wisconsinites woke up to on January 1st, 2012. The snow held tight to every branch and made a beautiful landscape. God’s turned the drab into beauty. Talk about starting the year off right! Sunday, January 1st, 2012 Wednesday evening Pastor Chris Kliner lead our Konnect ministry (Grades 1st through 4th) into worship. Seeing kids worship like this is what it’s all about. Kids developing a personal relationship with the King. Wednesday, January 4th, 2012 While returning straw from our…

• Bursting Out … Through Vision

  Nate Fietzer

  3 Jan 2012 | 7:00 am

  This is the time of year when everyone is making new years resolutions. As with many, my new years resolution is to become a healthier man. This not only includes losing that unwanted weight but also eating healthier foods and exercising more. According to statistics, 38% of all new years resolutions are related to weight but yet we are the unhealthiest country in the world. Why is this? I believe it’s an issue with our vision. You see, it’s what is in front of us that dictates our actions. Let me give you an example, this morning the daily routine started in the bathroom like usual…

• 

  reconciled

• Seek God: The How and Why

  Matt Smith

  27 Jan 2012 | 8:20 pm

  Seek God! You’ve heard a lot of people, including myself, talk about his. I’ll agree it’s far easier said than done. But it can be easier than maybe you’ve experienced. When we talk about seeking God there are going to … Continue reading →

• How to Know if God’s Being Quiet or You’re Slipping Away

  Matt Smith

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:27 pm

  I bet at some point in your life you’ve either been closer to God or farther away than you are right now. Sometimes it’s God testing us and simply being quiet. Sometimes it’s us who have turned aside to seek … Continue reading →

• Sin is Sin

  Matt Smith

  24 Jan 2012 | 8:32 pm

  I’ve been talking and thinking a lot about sin lately. Maybe because I have a lot that I need to work on in my own life. I really think it’s the Lord kind of shedding some light on it for … Continue reading →

• War and the Church

  Matt Smith

  23 Jan 2012 | 7:54 pm

  Perception is reality. I’m not a pacifist. I hate war. I don’t want to support it. I served in the U.S. Navy as a corpsman. I was part of the Marine Corps emergency medical personnel. I fought in a war. … Continue reading →

• A Guilty Conscience

  Matt Smith

  20 Jan 2012 | 8:05 pm

  Have you ever had a guilty conscience? I’ll admit I wasn’t a real good kid in high school. There were times I’d come home from a friends house knowing that if my parents knew where we had gone the night … Continue reading →