Tim Liston

Great CoMission Update #5: Digging Trenches in a Dry Land...

 

Pastor Caleb from Haiti posted this on Facebook today: "If you think your house is too small to asking people come to stay with you its ok. But Heaven is Large! Ask theme to come with you!!!"

 

How right he is!! Heaven is big - and what God wants to do for us and through us is usually bigger than we're thinking as well! That's why our church hires, builds, expands, starts new campuses, and why we DREAM BIG!!! If you've been around our church lately, you know God is up to something. Even at this moment, I hear the sound of construction going on at the 288 Campus. Our East Campus recently smashed all previous records with an event held for our Krush students. There is an excitement in Alvin like I've never seen before as we move toward the renovation of our building/campus there. And our efforts in Haiti may have had a breakthrough recently!! (I'll let you know. Keep praying.) WE ARE GETTING READY! Here's an excerpt from a Charles Spurgeon sermon from the 1850's. It reminds us to be ready for what the Lord wants to do. Enjoy...

 

"And he said, Thus saith the Lord, Make this valley full of ditches. For thus saith the Lord, Ye shall not see wind, neither shall ye see rain; yet that valley shall be filled with water, that ye may drink, both ye and your cattle, and your beasts." -2 Kings 3:16-17

 

"The armies of the three kings were famishing for want of water: God was about to send it, and in these words the prophet announced the coming blessing. Here was a case of human helplessness: not a drop of water could all the valiant men procure from the skies or find in the wells of earth. Thus often the people of the Lord are at their wits' end; they see the vanity of the creature, and learn experimentally where their help is to be found. Still the people were to make a believing preparation for the divine blessing; they were to dig the trenches in which the precious liquid would be held. The church must by her varied agencies, efforts, and prayers, make herself ready to be blessed; she must make the pools, and the Lord will fill them. This must be done in faith, in the full assurance that the blessing is about to descend. By-and-by there was a singular bestowal of the needed boon. Not as in Elijah's case did the shower pour from the clouds, but in a silent and mysterious manner the pools were filled. The Lord has his own sovereign modes of action: he is not tied to manner and time as we are, but doeth as he pleases among the sons of men. It is ours thankfully to receive from him, and not to dictate to him. We must also notice the remarkable abundance of the supply--there was enough for the need of all. And so it is in the gospel blessing; all the wants of the congregation and of the entire church shall be met by the divine power in answer to prayer; and above all this, victory shall be speedily given to the armies of the Lord. What am I doing for Jesus? What trenches am I digging? O Lord, make me ready to receive the blessing which thou art so willing to bestow."

 

Charles Spurgeon

 

 

 

Teaching for Life Change...

Two weeks ago I mentioned the Bereans who received Paul's teaching with eagerness then went home to check what they had learned against Scripture. That one line in Acts gives us insight not only into the Bereans lives, but also into Paul's teaching. Let me explain by telling you about two types of Bible study...

• A "deductive" Bible study begins from a point that a teacher is making, and then uses a number of scripture verses and examples to support that conclusion. Many sermons and Bible studies are conducted this way.
• An "inductive" Bible study begins with the raw text of scripture. The student (or in our context, the teacher) takes the time to observe what is happening in the text, the “who, what, when, where and why.” The teacher asks questions which help him to understand what is going on, what is being said, and how. Then he moves on to determining the application based on the observation and interpretation.

 

 

I like the inductive approach in study because of the more precise interpretation of the text and, therefore, the correct application that it brings. It is why I went to Bible College. There I went through years of “inductive” Bible study. However, the inductive method in teaching has its limitations. When standing in front of people it is time consuming and laborious to get to the point using the inductive approach. What works in Bible College with students who are committed to years of training in the classroom and are paying to get an education, does not work with people in a service that lasts one hour each week. When people come to church they don’t need to watch the pastor "study" the text on the stage. They need to know the results of the study they are trusting him to do.

 

When you have only about 30 minutes to stand in front of people, it’s important to get to the point quickly. It’s not good stewardship of people’s time to spend 27 minutes “observing” and “interpreting” while only spending the final 3 minutes applying. What people really need when they are receiving the Word is a brief explanation of how you arrived at the specific conclusion and then what to do with it, or how to apply it. They don’t need to sit and watch you observe and interpret. People want and need to know what God wants from them. The pastor/teacher is supposed to deliver the goods, not put on a show of intellect. 

  
However, the inductive method done from the stage is preferred by many Christians who consider the historical and cultural information as “meat” and the application of the text as “milk.” In fact, I've often seen new Bible College students with a semester or two under their belt (i.e. just enough Bible knowledge to make them dangerous) scorn teaching that doesn't sound like one of their classes. They think they are chewing meat when in reality they are crunching back story facts. Hebrews tells us that meat of the word (or solid food) is the application of the Scriptural text in a way that helps us to discern what we should and should not do (Hebrews 5:13-14). In a word, meat is “applicable” Bible teaching, not the details and the minutiae of the back story.

 

James 1:22 actually says that we can listen to the word and be deceived. How? Be not applying it. In Matthew 7:26 Jesus tells us that when we hear His word and don't apply it we're like the foolish man who built his house on the sand. The emphasis of Scripture is on "doing."

 

As always, at New Hope we try to do things in such a way in our services that we do not alienate the people God has called us to reach. Paul encouraged the church at Corinth to do things in their gatherings in such a way as to not alienate the people who were outside of the faith (1 Corinthians 14:23). Therefore, effective teaching that can hold the attention of a wide audience will feel like a deductive study – but is really inductive. The inductive part is done in the privacy of the pastor’s office. The lesson is then put into a form that gets to the application quickly. The Apostle Paul obviously used this method in his teaching. I say this because the Bereans listened to him teach, but then went home and checked the Scriptures to see if what he had said was true (Acts 17:11). The observation and interpretation often found in public in the inductive method was missing from Paul’s sermon(s) – but was obviously done in private because of the purity found in his teaching. 

 

Information without application leads to frustration.

Information with application leads to transformation.

 

And at New Hope we want transformed lives!

 

 

 

 

Old School: A sermon from 1859...

The following is an excerpt from a sermon preached by Charles Spurgeon on February 6, 1859. I found it interesting on several levels. I imagined sitting there in the New Park Street Chapel, listening to a man who had a firm grasp on Scripture and was able to get his point across to his audience. I was also amazed because a sermon from 1859 spoke to me. Yes... truth is timeless. Read on...

"Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” Luke 12:1

Suggested Further Reading: Matthew 23:23-28

"Some people I know of are like inns, which have an angel hanging outside for a sign, but they have a devil within for a landlord. There are many men of that kind; they take good care to have an excellent sign hanging out; they must be known by all men to be strictly religious; but within, which is the all-important matter, they are full of wickedness. But I have sometimes heard persons mistake this matter. They say, “Ah! well, poor man, he is a sad drunkard, certainly, but he is a very good-hearted man at bottom.” Now, as Rowland Hill used to say, that is a most astonishing thing for any man to say of another, that he was bad at top and good at bottom. When men take their fruit to market they cannot make their customers believe, if they see rotten apples at the top, that there are good ones at the bottom. A man’s outward conduct is generally a little better than his heart. Very few men sell better goods than they put in the window. Therefore, do not misunderstand me. When I say we must attend more to the inward than the outward, I would not have you leave the outward to itself. “Make clean the outside of the cup and platter”—make it as clean as you can, but take care also that the inward is made clean. Look to that first. Ask yourself such questions as these—“Have I been born again? Am I passed from darkness to light? Have I been brought out of the realms of Satan into the kingdom of God’s dear Son? Do I live by private communion near to the side of Jesus? Can I say that my heart panteth after the Lord, even as the hart does after the water-brooks?”

Sermon no. 237
6 February (1859)

 

NOTE: To sign up to have a devotional sent to your inbox daily, visit: 

htttp://www.BibleGateway.com/devotionals/

 

Applause vs Criticism

In life you will receive both applause and criticism. How do you balance the two? Actually, you don't have to. Here's what I mean...

 

"A reporter once asked an insightful question when interviewing a woman from the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra: 'How does it feel to get a standing ovation from the crowd at the end of your performance and then wake up in the morning to a negative review in the newspaper?' Her response was also insightful. She said over time she has learned not to pay attention to the applause of the crowd or the disapproval of the critics. She was only after the approval of her conductor. After all, he was the only person who really knew how she was supposed to perform."¹

 

As Christians, we live for an audience of One. Applause will come and go. Criticism will come and go. People are fickle in their opinions. It is impossible to please everyone. But, we're not supposed to even try. Paul says in Galatians 1:10, "Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ."

 

Recently I spoke "hard truths" in church (in the opinion of someone who was there). They cautioned me, "Coming right out and saying it like that... you're going to run some people off." Actually, that doesn't worry me. I'd rather have a church with 1 person and obey God, than to have a church of thousands where I have to waterdown the truth. Truth is truth. Abraham Lincoln once said, "If you call a dog's tail a leg, how many legs does it have? The answer is four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg."

 

I'll stick with the truth of God's Word, His principles, and His standards. Besides, someday I will stand before God. The people who wanted me to bend the truth or shave off edges won't be standing with me. It will be me and Him. And I want to be able to hear him say, "Well done."

 

 

  ¹ Replenish: Leading from a Healthy Soul, by Lance Witt.

Cancer, Rebuke, Pastors, Weddings, Christ's bride...

It's early Tuesday morning and I'll admit it: I'm a little all over the map today. It's already been a long week. But somehow, everything around me is related. I sat in M.D. Anderson yesterday praying, reading, and waiting as Ty had his surgery. During that time I made it halfway through the book, Replenish: Leading from a Healthy Soul, by my friend Lance Witt. I want to share two excerpts with you. In the first, he’s talking about rebuke; why we need it and how it is the highest form of love. The second is an interesting take on a Pastor’s job. Enjoy…

 

“A question I often ask people in ministry is, ‘Who in your life can rebuke you?’ Solomon said, ‘He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise.’ When’s the last time a trusted confidant rebuked you about how you treated someone, or an off-color joke you told, or your insensitivity to your spouse, or your distortion of the truth, or your harshness toward a team member? A rebuke can be life-giving in the same way that a doctor exposing and removing cancer is life-giving. There’s temporary pain but long-term gain. Usually when we think of rebuke, we attach words like shame, guilt, and failure. But a well-placed rebuke from a well-trusted friend actually exposes the stuff in my life that could destroy me. If I have a friend who loves me enough to rebuke me, it is a [blessing]…

...As a pastor, my job is to watch after the bride [the church] on behalf of the groom [Jesus]. I am like a spiritual wedding coordinator. The coordinator’s job is to assist and serve the bride and groom, behind the scenes, in making their wedding day a meaningful event. No wedding coordinator worth their salt would ever steal the spotlight from the bride and groom. Jesus said, ‘Father, I want these whom you’ve given me to be with me, so they can see my glory. You gave me the glory because you loved me even before the world began!’ There should never be anything blocking the bride’s view of the Groom’s glory. My constant challenge as a leader in the church is to get myself out of the way so that the bride [the church] will be awestruck by the incomparable majesty of her Groom [Jesus]!”

 

BTW- A question I’m constantly asked is: Why isn’t your name on anything at New Hope? (Some people seem a little disturbed by this!) But the reason is simple: It’s not about me! It’s all about Jesus and for His glory alone!

 

Blessings! And thanks for your prayers for my family!

 

Replenish: Leading from a Healthy Soul, by Lance Witt

http://www.amazon.com/Replenish-Leading-Healthy-Lance-Witt/dp/0801013542/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1327421226&sr=8-1

 

 

Fellowship of the Unashamed...

I read this in church this past weekend. It's something that I wrote in the back of my Bible when I was 18. It's not original with me, and I'm not even sure who the author is. But it described how I felt at the time. Amazingly enough, many years later I still feel the exact same way. After the service I started getting requests for a copy. I posted it on Facebook, but decided to include it on my blog as well. Enjoy...

 

I’m part of the fellowship of the unashamed. I have Holy Spirit power. The dye has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I’m a disciple of His. I won’t look back, let up, slow down, back away or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, my future is secure. I’m finished and done with low living, sight walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, mundane talking, “chincy” giving, and dwarfed goals. I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or popularity. I don’t have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded or rewarded. I now live by presence, lean by faith, walk by patience, lift by prayer and labor by power. My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions few, my guide reliable, my mission clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of the adversary, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity. I won’t give up, shut up, let up, until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, paid up, preached up for the cause of Christ. I am a disciple of Jesus. I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work till He stops me. And when He comes for His own, He will have no problem recognizing me – my colors will be clear.  

 

Trick or Treat?

I’ve been asked the following question many times throughout the years: Can Christians trick or treat, according to the Bible?

 

First of all, the Bible says nothing about trick or treating, since it was written well before this activity began. However, we know from reading the Bible that a Christian is not to do anything that glorifies evil. So, if a particular Halloween costume (or party) is centered on or around demons, devils, evil spirits, or the Dallas Cowboys, then the answer is easy: Don’t have anything to do with it. But... If the costume is not evil (or for our adults: too revealing) and the source of the candy is known, then I can’t find anything in the Bible that would forbid trick or treating.

 

What’s funny is I’ve seen churches preach against Halloween and trick or treating, and then offer an alternative event at the church… where kids dress up and get candy. Uhhh....... What’s the difference? How come if I take my kids to my neighbors or to their grandparents and they get candy it’s evil – but if I take them to a church and they get candy, it’s okay?

 

Take a look at the Christmas tree. It was originally an ancient fertility symbol. Yet, it has become a representation of Christmas and the place where we put the gifts when we celebrate the birth of Christ. Are Christians worshipping a pagan fertility god if they have a Christmas tree in their home? Not at all. That’s because the Christmas tree has now been totally separated from its pagan roots and has become a cultural symbol of the season of Christmas.

 

In 1 Corinthians 10:23-33, Paul talks about meat sacrificed to idols. There was meat left over after sacrifices were made to these pagan gods. This meat was often sold in the market. Apparently, Christians were going to the market, buying, and then eating this meat in spite of its questionable origins. And so the issue arose, "Should a Christian eat such meat?" (We can ask, “Should a Christian eat candy given to them on Halloween?”) Paul said in verse 25, "Eat anything that is sold in the meat market, without asking questions for conscience' sake."

 

This is interesting. He says it is okay to eat the meat bought in the market place even if it was sacrificed to idols. Meaning, meat is meat. To which I say, candy is candy. Yes, Halloween has pagan origins, but I don't think that's the intent of the kindly old neighbor who gives Smarties to your kids. It's become a cultural/social event. And my take is that because of our freedom in Christ, our kids can dress up in (non-evil) costumes, go door-to-door, eat lots of candy, and just have fun. After all, “Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world.” -1 John 4:4

 

Ultimately, you'll have to make the decision for your own family - and I'm sure you'll make the right one.

 

 

 

 

 

Helping our Wounded Heroes

New Hoper and BABASOT Board Member, Terry Collins (front right)

 

I’m so proud of all the good work that our New Hopers do every day. Our church family just overflows with the love of God for people. And I love that about you! I want to tell you about a New Hoper who is doing something amazing. His name is Terry Collins and he is one of the Co-Founders and a current Board Member of an organization called Bay Area Builders Association Support Our Troops. BABASOT was established in 2005 and has as its mission to provide custom made homes to wounded and disabled veterans and the widows of the fallen in an effort to get their lives back on track. BABASOT partners with corporate sponsors, individuals contributors, and volunteers to help severely wounded heroes and their families’ transition from the battlefront to the home front. I talked to Terry this past weekend and he said that they just gave away their 29th home to a wounded warrior!

 

Amazing!

 

Way to go BABASOT! Way to go Terry!

 

For more info: www.babasupport.org

30,000 reads?! Amazed to be used by God…

 

As I prepare to publish this post, my total blog “reads” are at 29,364. That means this post, more than likely, will move the reads beyond 30,000 total. Insert my amazed face here: ______!!  I’ve always been amazed that God would use me, at all. When I stand up to preach and look out at everyone (and our East Campus via the screen) I still have this thought after all these years, “Why do these people sit here and listen to me? I wouldn’t listen to me!!” Awhile back, someone was telling me they love the lessons at New Hope. Then they told me they drive an hour each way every weekend to come to church and I actually said, “Why?” Insert my embarrassed face here: _____!!

 

But I truly believe one of the reasons this all works is because it’s not about me.

 

Years ago, I sat down to talk to Howard Agnew (New Hope Worship Pastor). The church had just grown beyond 500 people each Sunday and I was feeling overwhelmed. I told Howard I was troubled that so many people were coming to church and I didn’t know most of them. He let me talk for a moment and then he said, “Well, they’re coming to church to get to know Jesus, not you.” Insert my "ouch" face here: _____!!!!!!!!!!!! Lesson learned: Preach Jesus hard and stay out of the way!

 

Now we move toward the fall with great and wonderful things on the horizon for our church family. And if you’re ever amazed by what God is doing in our church, or through the people of our church, please know that as Pastor… I’m just as amazed!

 

 

 

 

Haiti building dedication... pure joy!

Many of you are aware of our involvement with a young man in Haiti named Caleb. Caleb feeds almost 200 kids  twice a week and teaches them songs about Jesus and Bible stories. He also teaches them leadership lessons based on Bible principles. All this took place under a tarp/tent until the last few days. Now they have something more weather proof. Our church, New Hope Church, recently funded the building of a "shelter" where he can run his ministry. Here are some pics of the final clean of the building and the finished product. (That's Caleb front right in the above picture.) Pray for Caleb and the children of Haiti. And rejoice with them in their new shelter.

 

 

 

 

 

The smartest kid you know...

Today we have a guest blogger. His name is Eric Holt. Eric is seventeen years old and will be a Senior this fall at Elkins High School in Missouri City, TX. His mom, Carrie, is a staff member at New Hope. The reason I asked Eric to write a blog is because he is extremely intelligent. Super intelligent. In fact, after being pursued by several colleges for their summer programs, he is currently attending Berkley University. He is number one in his class at Elkins and is looking forward to pursuing a career as a theoretical physicist. Eric has been part of the New Hope family since 1994. On the heels of our "God Loves Science" lesson, I asked him to answer the question: Why does someone who is super-smart like you believe in God? in 300 words or less. The following is his 291 word answer. Remember, he's 17. Enjoy.

 

"Why do you believe in God?" is indeed a profound question, simply because absolute proof of God's existence cannot be realized by any human being. Therefore, in order to believe in God, we must have faith in Him and His word. Just as Hebrews 11:6 says, "without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." Such faith, however, does not come easily, especially in a world in which mankind's knowledge is exponentially increasing. Perhaps a better question would be, "Why is it that when we think we are smart we believe that a creator is impossible?" When the Big Bang theory of the origin of the universe was proposed, many people lost faith in God. We live in an era where our faith is constantly being tested by untruthful teachings. The only true, holy teachings we should believe in are those of the Word of God. I believe in God, because otherwise, everything and everyone in the universe, including you and I, are all part of a big accident. From a logical point of view, the sheer probability of the latter occurring is overwhelmingly close to zero. How could an accident possibly have caused the earth to be placed at precisely the right distance from the sun, have precisely the right mixture of gases in the atmosphere, and to have the countless other conditions necessary to support life? I don't know about the other scientifically-minded individuals out there, but I for one believe in a God who not only created the entire universe, but who loves us and wants to have a personal, intimate relationship with each and every one of us.

 

Laminin - The glue of your body...

This is a video from Pastor Louie Giglio. I loved it. Be inspired about the details of your own body, as put together by our Lord! (Read Psalm 139:1-18.) I've had several people (Glenda Hundl, Sabre Peacock, Steve Bonczek, Alisa James and others) give me info on this subject. Recently, I saw this video - and now I have to share. Enjoy!!

 

You're not the artist, you're the canvas... ( @prophiphop )

I just watched this video from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Humble Beast. I love creativity and these guys have it. But the thing about this video that spoke to me was the line, "You are not the artist, you're the canvas." Oh man, so true! Lord, help me to remember that!

 

 

 

 

A Memorial Day Reminder...

 

 

Your freedom isn't free.

 

 

"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." -John 15:13

 

 

 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, We thank you today for those willing to pay the ultimate price for our freedom and protection. We remember their sacrifice today. Watch over their families and loved ones. In Jesus' name, Amen.

 

You've got to read this! A note from Haiti... #haiti

  
Kids in the mountains near Jacmel, Haiti.

 

  
Birth of a great church? The foundation of the shelter where the kids in Caleb's ministry will be fed and taught about Jesus. This project is being funded by New Hope Church.

 

  
Caleb Midi (left) is our Haiti Missions Partner, along with some of the kids he feeds and teaches about Jesus. Below is a note from Caleb, unedited. Enjoy!

 

Hey everyone at New Hope Church!

How are you all doing? It's a pleasure today to write you this letter and to tell you God loves you and I love you as well. Thanks to God for His Kingdom and all of the people a part of it, especially you guys :) I am so thankful for your freindship. You allow me to see the love of Jesus in all of your hearts and you are always teaching me and encouraging me in so many ways. I would love to tell you, you are all awesome and I love you. Keep doing what your doing for God. He is so proud of all of you and all that you do for His kingdom. I would also love to tell you it is an honor for me to be a servant for the kingdom of God. I would like to let you know the impact you are having here in Haiti. First of all, the childrens program that you support and also me myself. I keep praying for the ministry in America and especially new hope church. I keep praying for all leaders, especailly brother Tim Liston and Pastor John the Hero because I know they are doing amazing things for the Kingdom and especially for new hope church. Thank you for your support and for your prayers and all you do for us. I pray you guys can keep supporting our prject here because we have so much pain here and so many lives to save for the Kingdom of God. I love you! And Im praying for you! And I hope I can see you  in November.

God Bless you!

Brother Caleb Midi the servent.   

 

 

 

Book: The Case for a Creator

 
This is the book I mentioned in the services this past weekend. Lee Strobel was an atheist who investigated the claims of the Christian faith, hoping to discredit them. However, because of the evidence he found, he gave his life to Christ. He’s written other books, such as, The Case for Faith, and The Case for Christ. If you have a scientific mind and want to hear from someone who has done the research, The Case for a Creator is a must read.

 

 

Baptism Weekend 2011

 

I’m just amazed. This past weekend 304 people were baptized at New Hope Church. I loved cheering for the people who were going to be baptized who stood at the end of the service. Someone from the East Campus said there was a moment when tears were flowing as people stood to be baptized! Many people didn’t plan to do it, but made the decision on the spot and followed through a few minutes later. How awesome to see so many take this step. One man told me, right before he went under the water, “My detour away from God ends here.” I about lost it.

 

When Jesus was baptized, God the Father said, “This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased.” I called that statement, a heavenly high five! I’m sure there were lots of high fives in heaven this past weekend.

 

 I love this church!

 

“And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.” –Acts 22:16

 

(BTW- We baptize people every weekend at New Hope Church. If you haven’t done it, but would like to do so, email the church at mail@newhopechurch.tv.)  

God and Tough Love...

 
Paul tells us in Romans 1:24 & 28 that sometimes God gives people over to their destructive behavior so that they can hit bottom and (hopefully) turn to Him. Nowadays we call this, “tough love.” For anyone who’s had to do it, you know it’s tough. (See also 1 Corinthians 5:5.) It’s especially difficult when the person is saying, “If you love me, why won’t you help me?” Sometimes they ask the question because they’ve gotten real good at manipulating us. (i.e. We help them, but then that help enables them to go back to what they were doing.) But always, they ask the question not understanding that it is because we love them that we will no longer intervene. We put ourselves through short-term pain, in hopes of eternal gain for them.

 

God also loves people with a tough love at times. But as He backs away from them, ironically, sometimes the bad behavior increases. That’s because some assume that God’s silence is a green light. It’s not.  

 

God is giving them time to turn to Him.

 

After all, “…it is his kindness that leads us to repentance.” -Romans 2:4. (ALSO, please see 2 Peter 3:9-10.) Eventually, it will be “party over.” That’s when the real wrath shows up on Judgment Day. But don’t get me wrong here: It is the hope of a righteous, gracious, loving God that all people will wake up and turn to Him. And when they're ready, our church will be ready for them.

 

 

Steal a Donkey for Jesus...

 

If the Lord is prompting you to do something, odds are He’s asking people who can help to be involved as well. Case in point: Luke 19. Jesus is approaching Jerusalem. He told his disciples to go ahead of him and get a donkey. He described the donkey and its location in great detail. Then he said in verse 31, “If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ say, ‘The Lord needs it.’”

 

What are the chances the line, “The Lord needs it,” would work if you were trying to take someone’s car without their permission? Not good, right!? Unless… (and you’d best be sure!) unless the Lord had spoken to the owner before you got there.

 

Verse 33 says, “As they were untying the colt, its owners asked, ‘Why are you untying the colt?’ They replied, ‘The Lord needs it.’” End of discussion. No push back from the owner. No 911 call. No more words exchanged. The donkey was taken back to Jesus for His ride into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.

 

Step back from the story and you can easily conclude that the Lord had spoken to BOTH the disciples AND the owner of the donkey at the same time and they were both on the same page. What does that mean for you? It means when God asks you to do something, you’re not the only one He’s asking. If it is His will, He’s going to place others in your path to help you achieve it!

 

Big Obstacle < Bigger God

 
It was early Sunday morning, just after sunrise. Three women were headed toward the tomb to anoint the dead body of the Savior with spices. It had been a long night of grieving after a few days of hell on earth for those who loved Jesus. Maybe it was their grief that made them forget an important detail before their journey began: They didn’t have a way to move the stone that covered the entrance of the tomb. When that fact occurred to one of the women, the question was asked, “Who will roll away the stone?” –Mark 16:3. They certainly couldn’t. But (and this is what I love about the story) they kept going anyway. Why?

I think it was the same thing that keeps us going when we know there’s an obstacle in front of us determined to stop us. I believe we keep going forward in faith because we know deep down inside ‘Who’ will move the stone. And if we don’t keep going, we won’t get to see it happen.

When they arrived at the tomb, their walk of faith was rewarded with an encounter with a Savior who was alive and well. The large stone had become a non-factor.

Remember, God is bigger than any obstacle in your life. Keep moving forward in faith!

 

God, please do the impossible in the lives of everyone who reads this post today. Whatever the immovable stone is in their situation, I pray that as they do their part and walk in faith, that you will do what only you can do: Move the stone! In Jesus name I ask it. Amen.  

 

Thank God: Jesus is not my Homeboy

 

When Jesus walked the earth, most people were waiting for a Messiah that would be a powerful, political figure. Someone who would break the rule of the hated Romans and everyone would live happily ever after. Jesus tried to erase that picture, even saying to Pilate before he was crucified, “My kingdom is not of this world.” -John 18:36.

On one occasion, the Apostle Peter correctly stated that Jesus was “the Christ” (i.e. the Messiah). Jesus agreed and then immediately told the disciples what that meant: That he, the Messiah, was going to be killed. Then comes one of the most insane verses in the New Testament, “Peter took Jesus aside and rebuked him.” -Mark 8:32.

Bold move by Peter. But why did he do it? The answer is simple: Because what Jesus said did not fit within the picture frame that most people, including Peter, had of the Messiah.  

Then Jesus uttered his famous, though harsh reply to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan.” Apparently, Jesus felt that Peter’s push toward the political was a temptation away from what He really came to earth to do: To give his life as a ransom on the cross for me and you.

Bottom line: Jesus is Jesus. As much as people try, we can’t make him into something he is not. And I'm so glad, because he is so much  more!

He is the Son of God (Hebrews 1:3); The Messiah (Matthew 26:64); The Savior (2 Timothy 1:10); He is Creator God (Colossians 1:16; John 1:3); He is the King of kings and the Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16); He is the Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29).

I’m so glad He’s not my President, or just a good teacher, or my “homeboy.” 

He is Jesus!!

Amazed by New Hope Volunteers!

 

I am amazed by our volunteers. Last night, volunteers packed out both campuses and the energy was amazing. These are the people who make New Hope what it is! I’m so thankful to serve our Lord with all of you!! I love the new volunteer tee shirts because the verse from Romans sums up the attitude around our church, "In Christ we, though many, form ONE body and each member belongs to all the others!"  Yes, yes, yes!!! Thank you, God!

I love you guys and I can't wait to see what God has in store for us this year!

I refuse to run the marathon this year because…

 
I’ve run the half marathon once and the whole marathon once. (The pic is probably after the half because I'm still conscious!) But I’m not running either this weekend and the reason is simple: I am not prepared. At all! Rule of thumb: If a trip to the mailbox makes you short of breath, then you’re not ready for the marathon! You have to be prepared. There is no other way.

Something else we shouldn’t approach without preparation is eternity. It’s way too important to mess up. Jesus said, “You must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” –Luke 12:40.

Wow! What a thought: In an instant He comes to get us, or we leave to meet him, and we don’t know exactly when that moment will happen. Therefore, it makes sense to be prepared!

There are those who believe they can live however they want and then make things right on their deathbed. But honestly, we don’t know if we’ll get that chance. It’s best to be prepared.

I refuse to stand at the start line of a marathon unprepared. And I refuse to live my life unprepared for eternity. That’s why I’ve put my faith in Jesus for my salvation. I’m ready!!!!!! (But not for the marathon!)

One Reason Heaven is better than Hell…

 
Matthew 5:22 contains a reference to Hell (Gehenna) which is tied to the Valley of Hinnom. This valley, outside the city of Jerusalem, was made infamous in the Old Testament because of child sacrifices, then desecrated to keep the people away. (See 2 Kings 23:10.)  It was outside the walls of the city, was at a lower elevation, and was far removed from the centerpiece of the city, the Temple, where God’s presence* was said to have dwelt. By Jesus’ time, the valley had become the city dump with perpetually smoldering piles of trash and constant fires producing ever-present smoke that drifted into the air day and night. Today, it’s been cleaned up (as you can see in the pic). But back in the day, Jesus used the valley as a picture of the real Hell for us. And it’s not a pretty picture for one very painful reason...

To be “there” was to be outside of God’s presence.* That’s hell. (See 2 Thessalonians 1:9)

Attach whatever biblical metaphor or literal description you want to it, but the thing that makes Hell hell, is that God’s presence is not there. Fortunately for us, the thing that Hell lacks that makes it so bad is the thing that Heaven has that makes it so good: God’s presence!

Here on earth all of us are blessed by his indirect presence. Someday, when He calls us home, because of what Jesus did for us on the cross, we will take a step into his direct presence! (See 1 Thessalonians 4:17-18)

That, my friend, is Heaven!

 

Thank you, Jesus, for your sacrificial death on the cross that takes away the sins of all who accept you as Savior and Lord!

East Campus Breaks 1000!

 
Our East Campus had over 1,000 people in church this past weekend. We’ve done it before (Grand Opening & Christmas Eve) but this was the first time on a “normal” weekend that East crossed that threshold. No guest speaker. No prize giveaways. Just church. And the thing that makes it even more impressive was the downright ugly weather we had Sunday: Constant downpours on a cold, dank day. But even the weather couldn’t keep people away from church.

 If you’re wondering why I’m telling you this, let me put it in perspective: It took 10 years to reach 1,000 people in attendance in our church (total). Our East Campus has done it 4 months after getting into their new building.  [Insert your own, “Wow! Praise God!” here.] 

Thanks to everyone who believed in this vision. Thanks to all the amazing volunteers and staff at East. And thanks to all of you who are giving to the “.Beyond” campaign!

Tell someone in that part of the world about our East Campus! (FM2351 & FM518 in Friendswood.)

 

For further study: Acts 1:15; 2:41; 2:47; 4:4; 5:14; 6:1; 6:7; 9:31; 9:42; 11:21; 11:24; 11:26; 12:24; 13:44; 14:1; 14:21; 16:5; 17:12; 18:8; 21:20

Alex Made Us Stronger

 
Isaiah 11 says, “A little child shall lead them.” That’s a prophecy about Jesus, but the concept can certainly fit the way the childlike faith of young children can strengthen the faith of adults. And such was the faith of a little 8 year old named, Alex.

This young man led his mom back to church and once there, he invited friends to attend. He encouraged and impressed all of us with his deep faith. Even as brain cancer limited his ability to move and made his left side go limp, he never complained. Never. And he always had a smile on his face, though a little crooked toward the end.

Today, Alex is in heaven. At 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 9 his “faith turned to sight” as the old song says. But he didn’t leave us empty-hearted. No, he left behind something invaluable for us: Childlike faith so pure and trusting that just days before he made the trip he talked to his mom about turning to the left, once through Heaven's gates, to see New Hopers already there. And he also told his mom, “You’re going to be ok.” (What a big man, taking care of his mom before he left.)

Thank you, Alex, for your gift of strengthening the faith of all who knew you! We WILL see you again!!!

 

(Pictured: Alex's Mom Holly and Alex right after they were baptized. Thank you, Stacy Todd, for capturing these special moments in pictures!)

Hard Time in the Desert = Good Times in the Future

 
Last weekend, I talked about the beginning of our church when attendance reached 75 and stayed there for six [long] years. With attendance now over 5,000 and growing, I’ve been asked a number of times by pastors and church planters, “What did you do in the seventh year?” (They want to get right to the good stuff!) However, a better question is, “What did God do in my heart in the first six years?”

The children of Israel wandered in the desert for 40 [long] years before entering the Promised Land. In Deuteronomy 8:4, Moses gives the reason for their lean years. He said, “Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands.”

I know there’s a temptation for us to want to bypass the desert and go straight to the reward. But more often than not, God directs us to the desert first. For me personally, I lost all my pride in the early years. All of it. By the time the church began to take off, I was an empty vessel. In fact, to this day, God can bless me, or take away everything I have, and I will still give Him glory.

I learned that lesson in the desert.  

The Devil loves DVR…

 
I heard Louie Gigglio say it awhile back, “The devil is great at rewinding.” So true. In Revelation 12:10 the Bible calls him “the accuser.” He loves to rewind and remind us of our failures. Again and again he replays our past mistakes on the big screen of our minds. He even has HD! It’s his way of controlling us, of keeping us from stepping out in faith. Rewind and remind. Rewind and remind. It’s his specialty.

Let’s face it, we can’t go forward in our lives while we’re rewinding in our minds. Paul said, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is next.” –Philippians 3:13.

It’s a new year. 2010 is done, over. So is 2009 and 2008 and 2007 and 2006 and… Well, you get the idea. It’s time to move on. Because of Jesus, the sins you’ve committed are paid for, forgiven, and washed away. You are completely perfect in God’s sight.

You’ve got a fresh start.

Say a prayer of thanks.

Now, hit “play” and see what God has for you next!

Happy New Year! 

Christmas means: God loves you!

 

 
You do know God loves you, right? One of my favorite notes…

“I haven't been to church in a while. I've been feeling pretty down and out lately. My friend talked me into going and I'm so glad she did. The message completely lifted my spirits. I keep repeating 'God loves me' to myself, to remind myself that I'm not alone. I started crying on my way home, thinking about everything I had just learned. Unfortunately, I got pulled over. I was confused as to why, I wasn't speeding, and none of my lights were out. The cop that pulled me over said I shouldn't drive while crying, that it impairs my vision. I couldn't help but laugh. I told him [I was crying] because I finally felt the love of God. He smiled and asked me if I was on my way home from church. I said yes and he asked about what church I attended. I said New Hope. And his words, 'Wow, it must be a pretty amazing place to move a young girl to tears.' I nodded and told him it was a safe place for me, I had finally found home. He let me go with a smile. I just wanted to say thank you for reminding me that God loves me and that I'm never alone. And if I get pulled over again, hey, hearing God's word is worth it.”

Remember: Christmas means you are loved by God! John 3:16

Do you remember the moment?

 
I was a junior high kid. We were traveling through Oklahoma on the way to a men’s retreat. We stopped at a small country church where a few hundred retreat-bound men had gathered for an evening service. A gentleman named Stuart Hamblen gave his testimony. Mr. Hamblen had been a popular radio DJ in Los Angeles, had acted in some old westerns with John Wayne, and had been a heavy drinker. Then Billy Graham came to L.A. Mr. Hamblen didn’t respond to the altar call. But God would not leave him alone. At 4:00 a.m. he knocked on Billy’s hotel room door and asked to be saved. Billy replied, “We’ve been praying for you...”

He ended his testimony by singing a song he wrote, that was inspired by a conversation with John Wayne:

It is no secret what God can do.

What He’s done for others He’ll do for you.

With arms wide open, He’ll pardon you.

It is no secret what God can do.

I was just a kid sitting in the back of the room acting like I wasn’t paying attention as he told his story. I was. And in those moments God broke me down.  I didn’t know I was going to end up being a pastor. But I knew I would follow Jesus wherever He wanted me to go. Do you remember the moment?  

Maybe you're just not ready to be blessed...

 
In 2 Kings 4, a widow was about to lose her sons as slaves to the creditors of her deceased husband. She went to the prophet Elisha for help. He asked her what she had. Her answer, “One flask of olive oil.” He told her to go to her neighbors and ask for empty containers. “Don’t ask for just a few!” he said. Then she was to take the flask of olive oil and pour it into the containers. She did. And one by one she filled them up! I’m sure there was much excitement in the room as her boys watched the oil, which would soon buy their freedom, continue to pour from that one small flask. I bet they were laughing with joy and moving around containers, trying to expedite the process. What a day! The Bible says that soon every container they had in the house was filled to the brim. The mom said, “Bring me another jar!” But the reply came, “There are no more!” (And for me the next line is the most poignant of the story...) “Then the oil stopped flowing.”

I bet she wished she had been ready with more containers.

I’m not a prosperity preacher, far from it. But I do know God blesses our faith. So what would happen if you set out some more containers and prayed bigger? Maybe God's been giving you time to get ready. Are you ready?

Guest Blogger: U.S. Congress

 
You've got to go back a ways to find a time when State was not so "separated" from God. But thankfully, even though State has become separated, there are still a lot of citizens connected to our Lord! Here's the Thanksgiving Proclamation of the U.S. Congress as the Revolutionary War came to a close. Enjoy...

IT being the indispensable duty of all Nations, not only to offer up their supplications to Almighty God, the giver of all good, for his gracious assistance in a time of distress, but also in a solemn and public manner to give him praise for his goodness in general, and especially for great and signal interpositions of his providence in their behalf: Therefore the United States in Congress assembled, taking into their consideration the many instances of divine goodness to these States…

Do hereby recommend to the inhabitants of these States in general, to observe, and request the several States to interpose their authority in appointing and commanding the observation of THURSDAY the twenty-eight day of NOVEMBER next, as a day of solemn Thanksgiving to God for all his mercies: and they do further recommend to all ranks, to testify to their gratitude to God for his goodness, by a cheerful obedience of his laws, and by promoting, each in his station, and by his influence, the practice of true and undefiled religion, which is the great foundation of public prosperity and national happiness.

Congress, at Philadelphia, the eleventh day of October, AD 1782.

How could this happen?

 
This question kept me up last night. My heart ached when I received the news that Josh, the young man everyone was praying for, was no longer with us. How could this happen?

This morning I read from the Old Testament book of Laments or “Lamentations” as it’s commonly called. However, the original Hebrew name of this book was, ‘ekah, or “how?” A great question then, a fitting question now. But the very fact that this question has been asked repeatedly for thousands of years reveals to us again that the human condition is painfully sick without God. Even within the first family on the planet there was murder. “While they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother Abel…” –Genesis  4:8

It’s not new to the world. Just new to our world. And it shows us that our church still has a lot of work to do in the community. For those of us who love God, let’s make sure that we do our best to spread the love of Jesus. Evil is in our world, but “the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” -1 John 4:4

"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” –Romans 12:21

Pray for Josh's family.

I Told Them Not to Go...

 
What does an earthquake, flooding, tent cities, mosquitoes, a recent hurricane, a cholera outbreak, and New Hope Church all have in common? Answer: All of them are making an impact in Haiti. That’s because we have a group there right now.

Here’s the funny thing: I told them not to go. Last week, Pastor John asked me if I thought the group should postpone the trip because of the cholera outbreak. I said, “Yes. Let’s play it safe and postpone.” Then a few days later he texted me and said, “We’re going.” To which I boldly replied, “…ok.” And now they are making a difference for Jesus. (Oh me of little faith.)

When I heard from John in Miami before their plane ride over to Haiti I told him, “It takes crazy people to change the world.” Be proud, New Hope Church: You’ve got some crazy people in your midst. (Jeremiah 20:9; Acts 4:18-21) Pictured: New Hopers, Lisa, Christie, and Chris teaching Haitian children about Jesus.

 

Heaven is not Dallas

 
When I was in college, and stressed out, I had a reoccurring daydream: How far could I get on two tanks of gas? (That was all I could afford!) Do you ever find yourself daydreaming about escaping? God made us that way. It is our soul “yearning” for heaven. Many people try to create heaven here: A home on a beautiful piece of property... but then the yard needs mowed. A trip to the Caribbean... but you have to come home. An escape from the routine... but while you’re escaping the mortgage is due.

With the vantage point of time, experience, and an atlas (none of which I had in college) I know now that if I would have lived out my daydream I would have ended up somewhere outside of Dallas. Not exactly the stress free, tropical paradise I had daydreamed! (And that's not a shot at the Cowboys!)

But in God’s time we’ll get to the real heaven and it will be perfect: No pain, no sickness, no stress, no tears, and perfect weather all the time! He’s created it just for you. (John 14:1-4)

For now, we’re here. But somehow, knowing we’ll be there eventually makes being here now a little easier to take. (Philippians 3:20-21)

Jesus was a communist?! Part 2

 
(Continued from Part 1) Was Jesus communist? Does the Bible promote communism or socialism? Short answer: No.

Consider this: Two of the ten commandments are anti-socialism. Command #8: You shall not steal, and #10: You shall not covet [your neighbor’s stuff]. Both of these commands guard the right of an individual to own things. Socialism and communism demand that stuff be given up to the state for distribution. The reward for hard work and success becomes the confiscation of your personal property. And the reward for laziness becomes a living wage even if you haven’t lifted a finger to earn it. This is completely contrary to the Bible command, “The one who is unwilling to work, shall not eat.” -2 Thess 3:10.

The state becomes the “almighty” deciding who gets what and how much they deserve. Socialism/Communism cannot co-exist with God’s teaching. That’s why the agenda of these political systems includes the marginalizing, silencing, and ultimately, the outlawing of the church and the teachings of Christ. The church in communist China (pic) has been driven underground. Think about it: If Jesus was communist, why would His teachings be outlawed by communists? Answer: Because Jesus gives freedom! And from that freedom and out of our personal property we voluntarily help the poor, in the name of Jesus!

(Please do not be political in your comments here or on Facebook. Thanks!)

Get a clue, Pastor: Encourage People

 

I listened to a pastor preaching the other day on the internet. I was searching for something else and his site came up. A minute into his talk I was uncomfortable. Not “convicted of sin” uncomfortable. More like, he was "talking down to the audience" uncomfortable. I’m not sure about his church. Don’t even know the name of it. (I looked for it again before I wrote this but it was out of my history.) Again and again after he would say something he thought was profound he would yell, “Come on, get a clue!” But I had a clue. I felt like if I were married to him or was one of his children, I would be very unhappy. I imagined him constantly hitting me on the back of the head saying, “Come on! What are you thinking? Get a clue!”

I don’t know much about his church. I imagined it was very small. I could hear a woman coughing every now and then in the background, which made me think the room in which he was speaking was very small – or the microphone was very good. I felt sorry for her.

Hebrews 10:25

I see Jesus

 

I see Jesus all week long. (Not like the guy in the pic, although that pic is awesome! But in daily life.) Yes, I’m a late arriver to the party when it comes to blogging. But it’s time. This will give me another avenue to talk about Jesus during the week, along with reminding our church family of relevant, upcoming events. Some days will be pure musing from my personal Bible study. Other days will be for fun. And some days will be all about my family. (I LOVE those people!)

If you know me and want to keep up with blog, you can easily subscribe or become a fan. I promise to keep it short! (190 words or less is my goal!)