The Lord Is My God

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

BDC Chapters 1-6

Building A Discipling Culture

By: Mike Breen and the 3DM Team

The Back Cover:

"Much ink and many pages have been devoted to all of the missional issues facing the Western church today. As our culture becomes more post-Christian with each passing day, we are all realizing that what has worked in the past is not longer working, that we are far less effective for the Kingdom than we were even 10 years ago. But we would suggest it isn't because we don't know what the Great commission states or the imperatives of the Gospel, or that our church services just aren't getting it done. It's because we are in the mist of a discipling crisis in the Western Church. The people sitting in our pews are rarely becoming like the people we read about in Scripture. They may come to a worship service, join a small group or even tithe, but their lives just don't seem to look like Jesus' life.

The truth of the matter is that we don't have a missional problem or leadership problem in the Western church. We have a discipleship problem. If we make disciples like Jesus made them, we'll never have a problem finding leaders or seeing new people coming to faith.

The central issue is that we have no idea how to make disciples who can do the things that Jesus did for the reasons Jesus did them. Building a Discipling Culture is the product of more than 25 years of hands-on discipleship practice in a post-Christian context that has turned into a worldwide discipling movement, dealing specifically with how to make the types of missional disciples Jesus spoke of. We all want to make disciples. Most of us are unsure how to do it.

For most of our church communities, we have a plan, but the plan isn't working. If you find yourself in this situation, this book is for you."

Building A Discipling Culture

By: Mike Breen and the 3DM Team

Part 1: Understanding Discipleship

Chapter 1: The Challenge & Chapter 2: The Jesus Model

Mike Breen and the 3DM Team offer a sobering look at how Jesus modeled discipleship for his 12 disciples, further more they do an excellent job of showing how he is still modeling discipleship today through His church and through His Word. Breen's writing is magnificent, his tone is articulate, compassionate, graceful, and convicting. This book is 100% invitation and 100% challenge. The truth of this subject in American churches is a hard one, but many church's are not making disciples. Some churches may refer to their attendees as disciples or simply label any christian a disciple. But the majority of them are not reproducing their faith in other peoples lives, who will then reproduce their faith in a like manner. Breen writes: "effective discipleship builds the church, not the other way around." I have observed many christian make disciples of church participation or church attendance rather than disciples of Jesus Christ. This really bothers me. I want the Western church to be powerful in the ways that matter to God. Consequently I'm really excited to be studying this book, so that I can be a part of building this discipling culture.

Building A Discipling Culture

By: Mike Breen and the 3DM Team

Part 1: Understanding Discipleship

Chapter 3: What It Means To Learn

Breen categorizes the process of discipleship into three arenas: classrooms, apprenticeships, and immersion. He admits that all are necessary, but makes a crucial observation to the way Western church's regard them. We tend to overvalue classroom experience while undervaluing the apprenticeship and immersion. Breen notes: "knowing I have a broken carburetor and need a new one isn't the same as knowing how to put a new one in!" Experientially speaking Breen & the 3DM Team lay it out plain and simple. They clearly link each of the three categories to one another showing their readers how new abilities gained through one must be complemented and further developed by the others in order to create disciples. More than this they show that with out all discipleship isn't actually happening.

Here is a basic breakdown on Breen and the 3DM Team's teaching. Classroom experience alone, makes a head strong student. One who knows but doesn't know how to fit that experience into real life. Apprenticing (Luke 11:1-2), will give the time and investment needed to become skilled at handling this new "classroom knowledge," while learning what can only be gained through experience. Finally immersion, often overlooked is the glue of it all, this is the authenticity, friendship, love, realness and such we often overlook when approaching discipleship with intentionality. Immersion cultivates one's character (of the heart) in addition to the skills a disciple now posses. Without immersion a disciple will never attain the character of one who disciples. This is somewhat Similar to saying that you are a christian without ever knowing God. Classroom learning, apprenticeships, and immersion must all be intentionally sought out in a well rounded discipleship. We see Jesus doing this when he takes the 12, teaches them, lives with them, loves them, eats with them, answers their questions etc... Before they know it three years have passed by and they through intentional learning, apprenticing, and complete immersion in the life of Jesus are sent out by Jesus to do the same.

Some of you may know the name Dietrich Bonhoeffer. He is known for his unyielding intellect and extensive teachings on discipleship. In a newly published biography written by Eric Metaxas (highly recommended, I read this last winter and spring) The following is said of Bonhoeffer by Otto Dudzus, one of Bonhoeffer's disciples. "Whatever he had and whatever he was, he made that accessible to others. The great treasure he possessed was the cultivated, elegant highly educated, open-minded home of his parents, to which he introduced us. The open evenings [his house was open for his disciples and family to come, eat, play music and sing together, discuss, laugh, tell stories on Friday nights] which took place every week had such an atmosphere that they became a piece of home for us, as well." Bonhoeffer was well know by his love, he left no separation between his family life and Christian life. Now he wasn't married either, and I personally think that affected how much he could pour into others, but aside from how much time we have Bonhoeffer exemplified discipleship.

Building A Discipling Culture

By: Mike Breen and the 3DM Team

Part 1: Understanding Discipleship

Chapter 4: Building A Discipling Culture

Two main points really stick out in this chapter. The fist: that three things are necessary for building a discipling culture: a discipleship vehicle, people need access to your life, and a discipling language. The second is this: information must be followed by imitation, only then can a disciple implement innovation.

In the list of three things necessary for building a disciple culture the first: "a discipleship vehicle" is a simple way of describing the format or order by which people will gather together, learn, and associate. The second: a need for people to have access to your life is surprisingly direct. People need to see you, your habits, your behavior, your life. This isn't so much about making a lot of changes to your schedule, all though you should be willing to do this if need be, its much more about allowing your disciples to come along for the ride. Literally --- invite them to the store with you, to study, workout, or wash clothes with you. The third item: "a discipling language," is all about communication of knowledge of what it is to disciple. This is where the information => imitation => Innovation model fits. This really is a vast subject and is covered in more detail in parts 2 and 3 of this book. But it is my impression that at the very core it is good for disciples to imitate their mentors behaviors (the ones which reflect Christ likeness) in order to learn in safety the essence of what shapes godly character: in turn they too will grow in truth and eventually adapt the way they personally apply or convey that truth in and through their lives.

Building A Discipling Culture

By: Mike Breen and the 3DM Team

Part 2: Lifeshapes: Our Discipling Language

Chapter 5: Language Creates Culture

Chapter 5 communicates the importance of language and what it does for a culture's communication and the creating of community.

"Sociologists say that language creates culture. Now, language is the way that we communicate, verbally and nonverbally. In the book Essentials of Sociology, the authors write: A common language is often the most obvious outward sign that people share a common culture."

Establishing a distinct language for your discipling culture will insure that communication happens on a shared level of understanding. Below is a list of the cultural language that Mike Breen and the 3DM Team have developed for their discipling culture. Notice that though the shapes are simple and seem somewhat corny at first, they do a profound job of communicating exactly what they are intended to.

Hexagon: Prayer

Lean to pray: The Lord's Prayer.
Relationship: with the father.
The Trinity: see how God uses the Holy Spirit to shape us.

Triangle: deeper and Balanced Relationships

Our Life with God.
Life within the church.
Life with people who don't know Jesus yet.

Simi-Circle: Rhythms of Life

Rest

To much and you will be lazy, ineffective, and unbalanced

Work

To much and you will be tired, ineffective, and unbalanced

Square: Multiplying Disciples

Lean the process of:

Being discipled
Growing in your faith
Making disciples
Living out your faith

Pentagon: Personal Calling

Lean the Fivefold Ministries found in Ephesians 4.
Find out how God has shaped and purposed you.

Heptagon: Common Life And Health

Learn to:

Live in
Participate
Contribute to your spiritual family

Octagon: Mission Through People of Peace

Learn to step out into bold mission by identifying People of Peace and helping them live in the spiritual breakthrough God has prepared for them.
Lean what the Gospel is and a simple and clear articulation of it that can be shared with People of Peace.

Building A Discipling Culture

By: Mike Breen and the 3DM Team

Part 2: Lifeshapes: Our Discipling Language

Chapter 6: Continuous Breakthrough

Chapter 6 asks the question, what is it that makes us more like Jesus and less like the world (John 3:30). Breen points out that our growth in Christ can be measured or observed over time. We are either taking advantage of the time that we have been given or throwing it away. In the greek there are two words for time, the first is chronos which means successive or sequential time, the second is "kairos" meaning an event, an opportunity - a moment in time when perhaps everthing changes because it is the right time. A kairos moment is when the eternal God breaks into your circumstances with an event that gathers some loose ends of our lives and knots them together in his hands." Here we find that chronos time stands still.

Kairos moments can be as big as your wedding day, or as small as a date night with your spouse, they can be good, or bad. The only defining factor is that it's a moment when growth is possible. In order to recognize kairos moments, see them as opportunities of growth, and then act on them we must do the following: observe, reflect, discuss, plan, account, and act.

At the very center of a kairos moment is our heart. That is why it is so important to cultivate an understanding of how these moments shape us. Growth in and through them can be broken into two parts with three sub portions each. The first part is to "repent" here we observe the moment and our behaviors, reflect on our actions and the cause of this moment, and then discuss it through discipleship with one another and with the Lord. The second part is to "believe" here we plan for future situations like the one we are in now, take account for our actions, and for preventing or preserving them in the future, and act on our gained knowledge.

It is important to understand what true repentance and belief are. The greek words metanoia (repent) and pistis (believe) are only processes not singular moments in time. To repent is to experience a change of heart and to believe is to think to be true. These words can not be defined as having once been experience in a moment of time. True repentance and belief in and through Jesus Christ will always continue to shape and mold us to his image. In Mark 1:15 Jesus gives us this circle of action saying that "the time has come, the kingdom of God is near Repent and believe the good news." In our lives this process is defined by our willingness live in repentance and belief. If we will live in the kairos moments of today, we will be shaped by Jesus in our hearts, resulting in our growth in the likeness of Christ. This is how we are conformed to his image.

Here are biblical examples of Jesus and His disciples employing this circle of repentance and belief. These examples were provided in the book and I found them very useful!

The Epileptic (Matthew 17:14-21; Mark 9:14-29)

The epileptic seizure (kairos)
Unbelieving and perverse generation! (observe and reflect)
Lord, why couldn't we drive it out? (discuss)
This kind can only come out by prayer (plan)
Mustard seed principle (account/act)

Forgiving Wrongs (Matthew 18:15-20: Matthew 18:21-35)

A wrong is done, a resentment remembered (kairos)
If your brother sins, go to him (observe and reflect)
Lord, how many times? (discuss)
Therefore, forgive your brother from the heart (plan, account, act)

A Mother's Request for Status (Matthew 20:20-28)

Coming to Jesus with request (kairos)
When other disciples hear this they are indignant (observe and reflect)
Jesus calls them together for teaching and discussion (discuss)
Not so with you! (plan)
Whoever wants to be first must be a slave to all (account and act)

The Rich Young Man (Matthew 19:16-29)

Conversation (kairos)
When the disciples hear, they are astonished (observe and reflect)
Who can be saved? (reflect)
We left everything; what will there be for us? (discuss)
If you leave house, family, fields (plan, account, act)

Unleashing The Word Chapters 1-8

Hey everyone, over the course of my internship I will be reading several books for personal growth. These books are not of my choosing, but are an intentional part of my internship, they are assigned to me by Pastor Darryl Handy. Since a portion of this internship is geared towards my personal growth, Darryl has composed a reading list on various topics that he believes will be of particular benefit to me. I will be composing short summaries of each chapter as I read them. I hope this will be encouraging to you a part of my ministry to you. Thank you for your financial and prayerful support of my internship. Thank you.

Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Abstract:

Unleashing the word is about the public reading of scripture. In 1 Timothy 4:13 we find that the public reading of scripture is held with equal importance as Paul commands Timothy to devote himself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching, and to teaching. McLean neatly lays out the various components of reading scripture in todays church. McLean prioritizes helping his readers to discover whether they should pursue this role in the Church, and if so, how to go about preparing oneself to fulfill it in a way that brings honor to God's word.

A short note on my exposure to this book. I had already selected this text for my summer reading list in order to expose myself to a strength which I do not find myself naturally exhibiting, that strength being dramatic vocalization. I was happy to find it on my reading list and have chosen to kick start my book reports for this internship with this one. I hope to learn from this book and apply the techniques offered in it to the public reading of Scripture in Blue Ridge Community Church.

Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Part 1: My Story

Chapter 1: How I Got Started Reading Scripture Aloud

McLean begins by diving deep into his past. As a young man he describes himself as having "had a strong desire to express himself." Seeing the dramatic arts as a means to this end he pursued acting in college. Shortly after graduating he became a Christian. Upon conversion he more than ever was excited for his future in the dramatical arts. After completing his post graduate degree in theater he moved to New Your where he met and married his wife. Newly married and preforming in a region theater he began seriously considering his life as an actor. Contemplating his career and its unfulfilling role in his life he quit acting. McLean recalls "While I was struggling through this dissatisfaction with my work, God was calling me to experience more of him. He was teaching me that "no one can serve two masters" (Matthew 6:24). Leaving the theater was hard for him and it left a void in his life, after all, actin was his passion. He began to get more involved with his church exposing him to many excellent and convicting speakers. At this time Mclean was still a new Christian and the Lord was planting in his heart a taste for dramatic vocal expressions such as the public read of Scripture. Eventually he was invited to read a short passage 2 Peter 3:10-15. Since Max wanted to do well with the reading he rehearsed it carefully, meditating on it in order to hear what the Lord was saying to him. He felt that it was a great honor to have been asked to read this passage. During this reading Max noticed an unusual attentiveness amongst the congregation. After the service he was approached by many who expressed their gratitude for his reading. It was this gratitude that sparked a fire in Max to seriously pursue speaking Gods Word's with the training he had received in the dramatic arts. Max's work since then as a voice actor has led him to produce many recordings ranging from multiple Bible translations to literature written by theological giants. At the time that this book was written, he had most recently produced a stage adaptation to C. S. Lewis's "The Screwtape Letters."

Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Part 1: My Story

Chapter 2: Recruiting Others Who Love The Game

Here Max begins detailing the role of any public reader of Scripture, communicating that not one should not simply feel obligated to pursue this role in the church but to love doing it. He depicts great readers of Scripture as being those who have both a "love of the game" and a gift for speaking publicly. He points out that one who is reading the Scriptures publicly has a great responsibility and opportunity to bless listeners with hearing God's Word with every detail and emotion intertwined with each passage. Max goes on to communicate that one's personality and self should be poured into and out of each reading. People should be seeing you in light of God's word. His over arching point to this chapter is that it is a great mistake to simply read any passage of Scripture to a congregation, and that God's Word deserve so much more than a bland and emotionless representation. He encourages those who are considering this role to carefully evaluate their personal dedication to doing justice to the public reading of Scripture, by incorporating intentionality, diligence, and resourcefulness.

Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Part 1: My Story

Chapter 3: No Longer The Worst Moment

"A normal person makes a decision about where to turn attention about 100,000 times a day. The brain is always drawn to something. This raises the question of how to make sure that when the Bible is read, that's what people are giving their attention to!" With this quote Max really hit the nail on the head. How does one as a reader do their very best to attract the undivided attention of those who are listening. In chapter 3 Max describes the pain of listening to a bland reading of the Scriptures. He comments that for many church's this is the norm, and that it matters whether or not God's word is simply stuck here or there with out much thought. Here is another excerpt from this chapter that really speaks to this issue. "John 4:23-24 tells us that the "kind of worshipers the Father seeks" are those who worship him "in spirit and truth." When I hear the Scriptures read intelligently, energetically, convincingly, and passionately, even the most familiar and shop worn texts draw me to a place where I can worship God in spirit and truth."

Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Part 1: My Story

Chapter 4: The 9 Percent Isolation Factor

"The Message of this Chapter can be summed up in one sentence: if 90 percent of effective Scripture reading comes from selecting gifted, trained, committed readers who "love the game" (chapters 2 and 3), another 9 percent of the unleashing process comes from isolation --- making Scripture reading a separate element of the worship experience. By isolating the moment the Scripture is read, we enhance its power." I agree with Max that this chapter is all about the need to isolate the reading of Scripture as a complete portion of the service in and of itself. His point is that in doing this you draw special attention to the reading giving it the attention that is due. This is done in part by setting aside a planned moment in each service for that reading, and by avoiding the norm of blending the public reading into other naturally emotional moments in a service such as worship. The reading of Scripture in its natural form is already both emotional and complete.

Unleashing The Word

By: Max McLean

Part 2: Butterflies and Breathing

Chapter 5: How To Sound Like You

Reading God's Word publicly should reflect God's Word in a way that preserves the text. McLean argues that Scripture is never truly preserved through a bland and monotonous reading. Only a lively one which captures the ups and down of a passage can portray its original meaning. This is similar to the way we interpret tones and non verbal cues from others in our every day conversations. "The reader must convey the passion of the unfolding drama so that listeners can fully capture the logic of the story and get an accurate sense of what really happened."

McLean's teachings have a broad basis for biblical support Hebrews 4:12, 2 Timothy 3:16, Jeremiah 23:29, 1 Peter 1:23 and many more all tell of the nature of God's word. Hebrews 4:12 reveals that it is "living and active." Max admits that there are several obstacles to reading in a way that engages ones readers and that one must pursue a clear reading of scripture with a great self awareness. His advice on accomplishing these things include avoiding the following 1. Being an entertainer, 2. Being a clown, 3. Being a junior pastor, 4. Being unprepared, & 5. Being a bore. I must stress how very clearly Max communicates that intentionally readings God's Word preserves the life of the Scriptures literally unleashing it! In fact I would not be surprised to find a great majority of this information in a how to guide on Getting Out Of God's Way.

Unleashing The Word

By: Max McLean

Part 2: Butterflies and Breathing

Chapter 6: From The Page To The Stage

Here Max begins to move through what a reader must do to prepare for their reading. The topics that he addresses are listed below along with a few key concepts from each.

"Devote Yourself To Reading The Bible Aloud"

Biblical in origin

There were prophets who proclaimed God's word 2 Peter 1:21
Paul instructs Timothy to do this 1 Timothy 4:13
Jesus demonstrates it in Luke 4:16-21
Jews did it (Acts 15:21)
Moses did it as well (Exodus 24:7)

"Let The Text Speak To You Personally"

Start by prayer.
Listen for the Holy Spirit to speak to you through His Word.
Find out how this text applies to you personally.
Engage in a conversation with the Word.

"Block Your Text Into Thought Groups"

Slow down, don't rush through the text
Separating the individual thoughts of a text and then reading the text accordingly allows reader to follow along with attentiveness.

"Identify The Action And Flow"

During practice, give special emphasis to each verb

"What is happening in the text?"
"Am I being asked to do something or respond in a specific way."

"Outline the text's emotional journey."

Beginning - Middle - End

"Practice With (Or Anticipate) A Microphone"

Podium Mounted Mikes

6 - 12 inches from mouth to mike

Hand Held Mike

3 - 6 inches from mouth to mike

Prepare for Pronunciation Challenges

Make sure you are pronouncing foreign names, words etc... in the same way every time.
Consider pronouncing it the same way your pastor or key speaker will be during the message.

Match Your Church's Culture

Be authentic.

"Authentic people are "true believers." They are people who believe in their convictions and are passionate about communicating them to others."

Practice Until Animation Comes Naturally

Goal: "to make public your devotional life with the text - using the words of the Bible and nothing more."
Be prepared: "being prepared is the greatest antidote to a fear of speaking and to avoiding potential stumbles."

Now Release the Passion of the Text

"You should be able to read with the attitude, I have something exciting and wonderful to tell you."

Anticipate Distractions

They are inevitable
Handle them with patience, grace, and confidence.

Unleashing The Word

By: Max McLean

Part 2: Butterflies and Breathing

Chapter 7: Take A Breath - It Even Helps with Nervousness

Breathing goes a long way to determine tone, confidence, volume, diction and more. Max shares techniques and suggestions on how to breathe properly so that the delivery of one's reading is not inhibited by a poor oxygen supply. Having grown up in chorus things like breathing properly and standing with an open diaphragm are not new to me. For the past two sundays at church I have performed the public reading of Scripture and remain aware of good breathing as Max suggests. McLean also correlates good breathing, good posture, and a confident voice with one another. For me this is the most helpful teaching in Chapter 7. As a side note I have really been enjoying this special opportunity to hear God more clearly!

Unleashing The Word

By: Max McLean

Part 2: Butterflies and Breathing

Chapter 8: Quick-Start Guide To Reading The Bible Aloud

In chapter 8 Max takes time to recognize the practicalities of Scripture reading. This chapter is devoted to equipping readers with the ability to prepare quickly for a reading. Max gives several helpful suggestions on how one can prepare to make a good reading happen with only minutes to prepare, or without much formal training or experience.

If one finds that they will be reading a passage in the very near future Max suggests the following five steps for preparation.

Ask God to make you an ambassador of his Word.
Make sure your text is printed in a readable font and size.
Find a quiet place to read over your text.
Look for phrases and words that grab your attention, allowing your voice to express them with the energy they convey.
Be authentic and real, delivering your reading in a conversational tone, while maintaining passion.

On the other had one might find that they are asked to preform a reading, but have no training in doing so. Max suggests that reader prepare by doing these things.

Pray and ask God to use this Scripture to deliver to you insight and understanding, so that you will have something real to convey to the listeners.
Make sure your printed text is readable both in font and size.
Take time to understand the text personally, so that you will know which words to emphasize and when to deliver pauses in your reading which best preserve the message of the text.
Block out the text. People have a hard time hearing a string of words and understanding them in full. Block out the individual thought groups in the text. This will give you understanding and help you to convey that understanding in your reading.
Find the passion that leads you in this text. Identifying your personal emotional connection to this text will help you to communicate with power.
Outline the emotional journey. Look for a beginning middle and end.
Keep practicing. Your practice process should be no less that eight full readings of the passage. Standing as you practice reading is beneficial.
Plan to have a verbally animated conversation with your audience. After you have completed your preparations, simply relax and trust that your work has benefited you. Don't worry about every detail during your reading. Just let the text flow.
Remember the role of faith. Trust that the Lord will use his word as spoke through his people.
Rehearse the event. If possible read the passage in the venue where you will be speaking.

The Delivery Of Your Reading.

Position the microphone. Hand-held microphones should be held at fists length below your chin. Stand held microphones should be positioned 6-12 inches away from. Lavaliere microphones should be clipped on by a sound technician, who will know where to place it.
Take the ready position. Position your text in an easy to read place, stand still, take a deep breath, don't slouch, Project your voice to the back of the room.
Speak conversationally but across the room. It is best to imagine your voice as an arc, your arc must reach the very last person who will hear you.
Read with passion. This happens best when you understand the significance of what you are reading.
Slow down by taking deep breaths. Breathing deeply can help to slow down the effects of nervousness on reading.
Bookend your reading by looking up. Look directly at your audience both before and after your reading.
If a distraction happens, keep going. If the distraction is really serious someone in leadership will intervene.

Monday, October 28, 2013

Center Church: Chapters 1 & 2

Center Church

By: Timothy Keller

Introduction: Theological Vision

The purpose of this book can be understood by reading its introduction. Tim Keller depicts how churches often miss out on ministering to their communities for lack of good theological vision. What is theological vision? Its the middle place between Doctrine (teachings about God) and Ministry (the service of a community) in many ways theological vision will determine whether a particular Churches Doctrine can be understood by a people group, or whether that Churches ministry will be received by the culture they are seeking to serve. Theological vision is not simple to develop, it requires hard work, and a particular patience for listening and learning on behalf of the Church. But it is undervalued by most churches and is likely "THE" reason many churches fail to relate to, serve well, love affectionately, know intimately, and share in, the culture and community of the people they are supposed to be serving. Good Christian Theological Vision will include Doctrine derived from the Bible, reflection on the current culture of one's community, a godly understanding of reason, and constant consideration of where and how a particular culture can and should be challenged and or affirmed.

Center Church

By: Timothy Keller

Part 1: Gospel Theology

Chapter 1: Gospel

The Gospel is not everything. Its not a moral code, or ethical teaching, it is not a pragmatic logic or method of accomplishing something. Rather the Gospel is a message of salvation. It is "the good news" and is to be shared as a result of its goodness. Since the fall of man Genesis 3:17-19 sin has brought God's curse on the entire created order. Because of this we are physically, socially, and psychologically alienated from God and our selves at birth. The hope brought by the Gospel is that Jesus Christ being God (John 1:1-14) died on the cross for all sins (John 1:29; 5:21; 10:28 Hebrews 9:15). Now any and all who will receive him are forgiven of their sin (John 3:16; Romans 10:9-10). This is the only promise ever delivered to man for the salvation of sin and the restoration of right relationship with God and our selves (Ephesians 1:13,14,18; ). The Gospel must never be mistaken as a way for us to get to God, it is and will always be about God coming down to earth, taking the weight of sin, abolishing it, and delivering that freedom of abolished sin to those who will receive him. Since this is true of the Gospel, no religion can bring about the salvation that Christianity offers, because no religion offers salvation the way Christ offers salvation. There is no mono theistic religion (belief in one God) in which a "personal God" comes down from heaven to save his people or suffer the consequences of there unholiness. This is the distinction that is Jesus Christ, this is why the Gospel is good news

Center Church

By: Timothy Keller

Part 1: Gospel Theology

Chapter 2: The Gospel is not a Simple Thing

Introduction:

This chapter is extremely doctrinal. I can't help but feel a bit disabled in my present knowledge of the information being shared in this chapter. In order to reflect everything that Tim Keller is teaching. In addition to my thoughts and reflections on this chapter I felt it every bit of necessary to provided a summary and outline explaining the chapters key points. I was weary about sharing this information as a part of my original post, because my goal in writing these chapter summaries, is not to rewrite the chapter but to communicate with as few words as possible what was taught in them. But in the case of ths information it's not a great idea to reword to much of what is being said. Simply put "don't go fixin what ain't broke."

Thoughts & Reflections:

Man, I both enjoyed and disliked this chapter. There was a lot being said and I knew that for the purposes of writing this blog I wouldn't be able to fit all of the information being communicated into my post. Center Church is a very deep and rich book aimed at equipping its readers with every detail necessary to understand the inter workings of the Gospel, this world, culture, history, God, and much more. Being such, the understanding articulated in these pages leaves one feeling less than adequate to readily comprehend it. I have reviewed this chapter a total of six times now three in audio and three in print. This is no complaint I have already read this book all the way through and thoroughly enjoyed it. But the mental stamina necessary for enjoying this work of truth, is not equivalent to that necessary for sharing this truth as accurately as Keller does. I am particularly encouraged by this thought, it is to me a sure sign that The Lord is not only shaping my heart but my mind!

Summary:

The Gospel is not simple. It can be communicated simply and understood simply (Romans 10:9). But to fully know all that the Gospel is, is in it self very complicated. Through out the Bible both harmony and variance in the ways the Gospel message is portrayed are found. In the Gospel of Matthew the emphasis is on the coming Kingdom of God, the new socioeconomic order of this kingdom, and other things concerning the nature of God's heavenly Kingdom both in heaven and on earth. John on the other hand gives emphasis to the eternal life, a relationship with the Lord, and cultivating/experiencing His love daily. Paul's letters and epistles, present different aspects that neither of these Gospels clearly reveal. In them we find a familiar theme, that justification through salvation by faith alone will expose one to the redemption of Jesus' blood shed on the cross. Each of these differences are equally important to the essence of the Gospel message, but they are not mere interchangeable truths. The Kingdom of God is not a reference to eternal life in Christ, and justification through salvation by faith alone is not the same thing as having eternal Life.

Here is an excerpt from the text. "In Galatians 1:8 Paul condemns anyone who preaches a Gospel other than the one we preached to you. In 1 Corinthians 15:11 he takes pains to show that the Gospel he declares is the same as that preached by Peter, John, and the others." "Whether then it was I or they, this is what we preached, and this is what you believed (1Corinthians 15:11)" "It would be impossible for Paul to condemn a false Gospel and affirm the preaching of Peter as the Gospel without assuming a consensus body of Gospel content."

The second part of this chapter explains how these themes are discovered. When studying the Bible. Scholars must take into account the language in which all 66 books were originally written. There are two ways this can be done. The first is a synchronic approach also called the Systematic Theological Method or STM, this method focuses on the structure of a language at a particular time in history. Through the synchronic method we find a story less order. Mainly comprised of the topics a given text includes i.e. the gospel narratives can be read as God, sin, Christ and faith. The synchronic approach falls short By failing to provide narrative or context by which to apply the topics observed. We know that the Bible can be read synchronically because it has a single author, God. The second is a diachronic approach also called the Redemptive Historical Method or RHM, this method reveals the way in which a language and its meaning change as a result of life experiences. Through the diachronic method we find what the bible says as a whole by stages in history, the plotline of a story, or the narative overview of the bible itself. Diachronically we see the Gospel message presented through out all of scripture: God's creation, the fall of man, and God's reentry into history to create a new people for Himself, and eventually about a new creation that emerges out of a marred and broken world through Christ. the "We believe we can read the Bible this way because God used human beings to reveal his revelation - and because as hope-based creatures we respond to the beauty of narative."

There is no one standard outline found in the Bible to describe the Gospel. When we compare John, The Synoptics (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), with Paul we find variance in the descriptions of the Gospel message, but also find that the essence of the Gospel remains the same. That is that Christ offers redemption through substitution for our sins.

Compare Matthew 25:31-46 (Kingdom) and John 10:17-31 (Eternal Life)

With John 3:16, 17
See that these words Kingdom and Eternal Life are not synonyms. These terms convey different aspects of God's salvation.

Matthew along with the other synoptic Gospels (Mark and Luke) use the word Kingdom in reference to God's salvation because the writers were concerned with the future of new life in Christ.

The synoptics give a "more external and corporate emphasis", revealing the actual "social and behavioral changes that the gospel brings."

"Money is not made and Idol" - Mark 10:17-31
"The hungry, naked, and homeless are cared for" - Matthew 25:31-46

John on the other had puts great emphasis on the individual and inward parts of living in the Kingdom of God!

The Kingdom of God is not an earthly sociopolitical order - John 18:36

Together John and the Synoptic writers show complementary parts of a whole that is the Gospel.

Paul uses both Kingdom, and Eternal Life, but spends more time focussing on the concept of justification. This is not a different Gospel, but again another part of the whole.

"Jesus takes the curse of the Law (legal penalty for sin), so that we can receive the blessing of Christ obedience" - Galatians 3:13-14

Simon Gathercole reveals that the variations between The Synoptics, John, and Paul are not contradicting. At the heart of all of these descriptions of the Gospel the message remains "redemption through substitution." This is the Gospel.

"In Jesus God substitutes himself for us, and on our behalf pays the debt."

Mark the disciple- Mark 10:45
John the disciple - John 12:20-36
Paul the apostle - 1 Timothy 2:6

"Defeats the evil powers"

Paul the apostle - Colossians 2:15
John the disciple - 1 John 3:8

"Bears the curse and divine wrath"

Matthew the disciple- Matthew 27:35
Paul the apostle - Galatians 3:13
John the disciple - 1 John 2:2, 4:10

"Secures for us Salvation by grace, not by our works."

Paul the apostle - Ephesians 2:8-9
Paul the apostle - 2 Timothy 1:9

"Becomes for us an exemplar."

Paul the apostle - 1 Timothy 1:16
Unknown - Hebrews 12:2
Peter the disciple - 1 Peter 2:21

Conflicting modification on October 28, 2013 at 1:19:00 PM:

Center Church

By: Timothy Keller

Introduction: Theological Vision

Center Church

By: Timothy Keller

Part 1: Gospel Theology

Chapter 1: Gospel

Center Church

By: Timothy Keller

Part 1: Gospel Theology

Chapter 2: The Gospel is not a Simple Thing

Introduction:

Thoughts & Reflections:

Summary:

Compare Matthew 25:31-46 (Kingdom) and John 10:17-31 (Eternal Life)

With John 3:16, 17
See that these words Kingdom and Eternal Life are not synonyms. These terms convey different aspects of God's salvation.

Matthew along with the other synoptic Gospels (Mark and Luke) use the word Kingdom in reference to God's salvation because the writers were concerned with the future of new life in Christ.

The synoptics give a "more external and corporate emphasis", revealing the actual "social and behavioral changes that the gospel brings."

"Money is not made and Idol" - Mark 10:17-31
"The hungry, naked, and homeless are cared for" - Matthew 25:31-46

John on the other had puts great emphasis on the individual and inward parts of living in the Kingdom of God!

The Kingdom of God is not an earthly sociopolitical order - John 18:36

Together John and the Synoptic writers show complementary parts of a whole that is the Gospel.

Paul uses both Kingdom, and Eternal Life, but spends more time focussing on the concept of justification. This is not a different Gospel, but again another part of the whole.

"Jesus takes the curse of the Law (legal penalty for sin), so that we can receive the blessing of Christ obedience" - Galatians 3:13-14

Simon Gathercole reveals that the variations between The Synoptics, John, and Paul are not contradicting. At the heart of all of these descriptions of the Gospel the message remains "redemption through substitution." This is the Gospel.

"In Jesus God substitutes himself for us, and on our behalf pays the debt."

Mark the disciple- Mark 10:45
John the disciple - John 12:20-36
Paul the apostle - 1 Timothy 2:6

"Defeats the evil powers"

Paul the apostle - Colossians 2:15
John the disciple - 1 John 3:8

"Bears the curse and divine wrath"

Matthew the disciple- Matthew 27:35
Paul the apostle - Galatians 3:13
John the disciple - 1 John 2:2, 4:10

"Secures for us Salvation by grace, not by our works."

Paul the apostle - Ephesians 2:8-9
Paul the apostle - 2 Timothy 1:9

"Becomes for us an exemplar."

Paul the apostle - 1 Timothy 1:16
Unknown - Hebrews 12:2
Peter the disciple - 1 Peter 2:21

Friday, October 18, 2013

Here is my Bio for the Blue Ridge Community Church web page

Hello, my name is Elliott Knoch. I've lived in NC my whole life, and still love it. Growing up I was certain that I had no idea who I was, and I couldn't grasp how anyone else my age could be so certain as to who they were. Like most children I understood myself according to what others said of me, and what I could see of myself. Having had such a hard time distinguishing who I was I began to ask the questions who is Elliott Knoch, and what does Elliott like? I felt incapable of answering these questions for myself. In reality this feeling of inability was simple naivety. I had not experienced enough of my life to know who I was, or what I was asking of myself in order to know it. By instinct I'm quite curious, in fact as a boy I remember identifying with the children's book character Curious George. As such my life has been riddled with questions, some of which, by pure exhaustion, I have stopped asking. Since an early age I have seen that my quality in the art of curiosity is an ironic one, it seems that often enough I do not quite know what it is I'm looking for. What I mean is, to a degree, I am keenly aware of what I have yet to learn, and this since of something yet learned inspires me. In the case of discovering my identity this quest for knowing myself was permanently redefined the day that I became a Christian.

At ages 4 and 5 I began playing soccer and golf, I often wondered off in my head during soccer games, leaving me vulnerable to attack. This was always me, I've never cared very much about winning in sports, it seemed pointless, I didn't identify with why winning a game mattered. I liked playing these sports but never felt like I belonged in them, because of this. I always considered myself as a "mediocre player." I continued playing all the way through high school in addition to running cross country, which I also enjoyed but failed to excel at. As it turns out, I have never become very competitive in view of sports. From ages 5 to 18 I experienced almost every aspect of boy scouts that a boy could. I was taught to think strategically, plan well, take action, face challenges, and cultivate virtuous character. I learned how to care for my self, and others. Scouting was a crucial influence in my life. And my mom is to thank for that. She is the one who made me go and the one who found good scout troops for me despite moving several times. Eventually I graduated with my Eagle Scout rank, which is the highest honor any scout can receive. This was perhaps the best I had felt about my identity, but I knew that I often failed my own standards of measure, and the standards of measure that others had for me. Through out elementary and middle school I sang in the NC Boys Choir and eventually the Tar River Children's Chorus. Despite my thorough involvement in these vocal programs I never wanted to be in them. I mostly just had to go, this resulted in me not caring very much about learning the music. If my musical instructors had asked me to recite the words of any of our songs, I don't think I could have sang even one of them by memory. I mostly listened to what the others were singing and faked it. I didn't like that I sang. I would not have called it girly then, but somewhere inside thats exactly the way it felt. Eventually my musical life lead me to playing the guitar and the harmonica, but away from vocals. During high school I was both accepted into and kicked out of the National Honors Society due to my grades. My senior year of high school was 2007-2008 and it was filled with weed, other random drugs (but not many), confusion, loneliness, abuse, and sadness. Three people stick out in my mind as having mattered most to me during this hard time. The first two; were my best friends John Hughes and Charles Tolan. The third was my soon to be pastor Peter Gilliland.

Because I found my identity in the things I did, it was common for me to act differently dependent on what I was doing. I often changed my diction, tone, slang use, and more, in order to fit the mold of any given moment. I did this not out of deception, but out of a desire to be someone who "fit in." Now I regret not having been a stronger more defined person, especially as a teenager. I knew that I didn't like my identity very much, but I wasn't so sure why, and I definitely had no clue how to change it. Thankfully God was preparing to reveal Himself to me, and in doing so would reveal to me my true identity.

That spring (2008) of my senior year, and around the time I was receiving my Eagle Scout rank I was accepted to Western Carolina University. Peter had shared with me the Gospel. Shortly after this, under a star lit night sky I received salvation through Jesus Christ. I cried, because I was afraid of what God must think of me. Up until then I thought He didn't exist. But in that moment He was for no apparent reason more real than I could have ever imagined. I know that from the moment I feared Him, I believed in Him (Pro 1:7). This belief was not my salvation, but it was the nudge I needed from Him to receive salvation through Christ. That night through my tears I spoke with a broken voice, "I will receive your son Jesus Christ as My God, and for the forgiveness of my sins. But I need You to show me that you are real, that I'm not some how imagining you. I need you to make it so obvious to me, that I would not be able to ignore you." He answered my prayer from that night in two very powerful ways the first of which I will not share here, the second is this: that over the next 5 years of my life He has sovereignly made me, to know Him, and to know myself according to his plans for me (Matt 6:33).

Since knowing God I know much more about who I am than I ever have before. This is because I know Him who created me, and He delights in revealing to me His creation, which in this case is myself. To date I have learned through knowing Him that I am His, and no one can change that! My image is forever in Christ's likeness. And God's sovereignty will forever reign over my life, not absent from my thoughts and actions, but present through them. Jesus died for this truth, and I live daily to know it. He has made me for Christian ministry, and that doesn't mean that I have to be a pastor. I graduated from WCU with a degree in Parks and Recreation Management, and wonder how God will use this for His Glory. On a personality and preference level, I can't wait to be married, I look forward to this every day of my life as I prepare my self for it, and wait for Him with patience and hopefulness. I love the pursuit and attainment of fitness, for me the ability to move is an inspirational metaphor representing life with God. I often prefer to worship the Lord through a work out rather than music; but I seek both with diligence! I enjoy details that explain almost any answer, the things that make great questions great, and that moment when you understand something for the first time. I have found few things to be as valuable as the loyalty of good friends, for they are not easily replaced. And yes as you may have noticed I am gifted at complicating the simplest of things. This was supposed to be a short bio for the church website. I have managed to make it my life story! Much of the details that others tend to regard as annoying or confusing, is for me the clarification and closure that needed in order to gain a wholistic understanding. This often causes people to misunderstand me or what I mean to communicate. I dislike this and am working very hard to improve the way I communicate, so that this doesn't happen. However I trust that there is a skill which with time and practice can be developed. A skill to explain very deep and complex ideas to people in a way that is simple and easily shared. In contrast and complement to this, I like that I'm weird and confusing. I see it as a constant reminder that I was uniquely made by God. And that my depth of thought will serve a significant purpose in His Kingdom on this earth.

I hope that these details may serve you as an an authentic attempt to provide a glimpse of myself; who I am, what I am, and why. I'd like to close by saying what an honor it is to be serving this body of Christ at BRCC. I am tremendously blessed to be working in ministry, and pouring into this church community all the love and effort that has been poured so deeply into myself. In the Great Commission (Matt 20:18-20) Jesus clearly states that we are to "go out and make disciples" (Matt 20:18). Knowing my identity in Christ, and who God made Elliott to be, is a result of living out my salvation according to God's plan. You see, I didn't simply discover all of these things about myself. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ through Darryl Handy's discipling of me, because of BRCC's presence in this community. It was through this discipleship that the Lord has grown in me so much. Darryl has had this opportunity because of his role in BRCC. Truly, I would know God and myself much less than I do today with out having become a part of this church. Thank you so much Pastor Darryl Handy for all that you have poured into me. Your discipling of my life, has been God's hand in my heart!

Saturday, August 24, 2013

Recently, it has occurred to me through the help of a friend that the total amount of my budget $41,450.40 will be challenging for some to condone when considering whether or not to support me. If this is you, or if you are in question as to why I have chosen to place what is included on my budget; on by budget. I would like to offer you a short explanation,

This in no way exhausts my thoughts on finances and the practicalities of ministry but it is an attempt to share some of them.

Neither I nor BRCC believe in a prosperity gospel as being God's word. Jesus never preached comfort and wealth as being a result of salvation. But he did preach diligence, wisdom, and the value of preparation. Paul, during his ministry, had times of abundance and times of great need, times of working to support himself and times of being supported by the church.

With my budget I have been very honest about my needs and desires, some of which are more expensive than others. But as you read through it should become clear that I am not purchasing many things for myself in the way of luxury, or selfish living. The money raised which funds my internship can be summed up in this statement. "I intend to do and am currently doing the very best with what i have financially. However after careful consideration I have concluded that the best I could possibly do would cost $41,450.40." I know its a lot!

I currently support myself and have had many financial challenges over the course of my life. You may be surprised to learn that I never owned a car until last march, so a highly endowed lifestyle isn't my goal, nor has it been my reality. Thankfully, I currently have most of the things are needed to live. In my case, it was always costly for others to sacrifice their time, money, and schedule in order to give me a ride. I was literally hitching a ride to a 40 hr/wk job this time last year, and my schedule was built completely on when others could pick me up and drop me off. This was a case in which my ill equipping financially left me to be taken care of by those kind enough to do so. If possible I would like to avoid experiences like this in the future, by wisely handling my finances. In other words this has instilled in me a value for planning. It is my responsibility to provide for myself and my future household. I simply want good things financially, but not apart from righteousness.

Below is a short list of thoughts/items that you may struggle to find on my budget

Ipad: It isn't necessary, but my computer is 6 years old and very outdated. There are several feature on it that no longer work. Instead of venturing to buy a new one I've settled for a tablet, its half the price and I can do almost everything I will need to do for my internship on it as well.

Savings and Tithe: I consider saving in an IRA wise (Pr 13:22, and 21:20), as I do tithing. Both are a current part of my monthly expenses even with my very limited income. Almost anyone who fundraises for their primary income will teach the importance of saving. It is widely accepted amongst these who fundraise that not saving for the future is a great mistake.

Ministry Expenses: Being a pastoral assistant is my job for the next year of my life, and I can't tell you how much it means to me to be working in ministry at age 23. Like any other job, the things you do costs money. For most jobs these things are provided by the business they work for. For my internship, this is not the case. By large whatever I do/need must be raised by myself.

Working Part-time: I have a part time job, but only make about $6.00/hr after taxes. I do not mind working elsewhere to support myself, but I do mind that it subtracts from my ability to give to this ministry. For now I work 6-7 hrs a day 5 days a week and then transition to about 6-7 more for my internship in the afternoon/evening. In many ways this commute is a great joy, because their is joy in working hard. Consequently the 14 hour work day does not bother me much. What does bother me is that I know more could be given on my part if I could serve God's people, eat, live, buy gas, etc... without working part time 5 days a week.

Scripture teachs us about "the love of money" (1 Tim 6:10) being "the root of all kinds of evil." I don't love money, nor do I want to waste my supporters money so I chose to be very open regarding my intentions. Yes I regularly tithe 10%, I saw no reason to change that, I have no insurance I saw no reason why I shouldn't, I regularly save (though it is little), I plan to go to Seminary, send my kids to College, give gifts at Christmas, accompany my church on a Spring Break mission trip etc... Some of these are normal things, Some uncommon, and a couple are unusual for men our age to concern themselves with.

A basic break down of my budget will reveal the following. Out of $41,450.40 a total of $10,328 (fundraising, and ministry expenses) are not being spent on pleasure, but on enhancing my ability to impact and serve BRCC and Cullowhee, in addition to growing during this internship. Taxes account for $6,923. Tithing is $4,145, really thats my choice, but its because I want to support BRCC financially. In fact many missions organizations require their missionaries tithe a percentage of their raised support. My savings $13,796 aren't really being spent on myself at the moment, and some never will be. As you saw a portion will go to my future children, some to a retirement account, I have even diligently decided to prepare for a time when I have no income (emergency expenses). I know that this is not foolishness, and that it is wise to seek provision both for oneself and one's family. I am living off of $12,944 + $2,827 needed for health and car insurance, together this totals $15,771 that I literally plan to spend on myself this year. I don't think that is extreme, and I could have left my budget at that amount. In fact some would have chose to. I did not, because I do not regard my work in this ministry to be worth so little that I could not afford to save, or tithe, or bring money to my internship in order that God and his work in BRCC and on this campus might be more abundantly blessed.

In conclusion please know that I spent a lot of time considering the very best internship I could foresee. I asked myself and God what it would cost, and what was really worth pursuing financially? Then I added it together and ended up with $41,450.40. It does not include dumb luxuries like a big TV or a jungle gym. If you are willing please look back at my budget and consider this. That for me to take such diligent efforts in preparing a functional financially secure budget, raise it, and bring it with me into my internship is a great blessing to everyone I serve. I would have plenty to share in the way of time and money. Money is money, and really its not fun :) but we have to have it in order to live.

Thanks, I hope this helped with some of your concerns.

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Abstract:

Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Part 1: My Story

Chapter 1: How I Got Started Reading Scripture Aloud

Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Part 1: My Story

Chapter 2: Recruiting Others Who Love The Game

Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Part 1: My Story

Chapter 3: No Longer The Worst Moment

Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Part 1: My Story

Chapter 4: The 9 Percent Isolation Factor

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

First day on Campus

Wow, God has been moving. Today started out early 6:00 AM, as I headed to work from 7-2. My car has been leaking coolant so I've had to pay close attention to it during my commutes, I'll get it checked out tomorrow. As I left work I went by Staples on an errand for the Church, my first official one! On the way home I listened to Center Church by Timothy Keller. I had almost finished this book, but am rereading it as a requirement for my internship. Both Josh (first intern at BRCC) and I are reading it together with Darryl (our pastor). The book is primarily about culturally adapting theology, so that people can grow in one's ministry. Having read most of it already, I am very excited to officially go over it again in my internship.

Once home I grabbed a change of clothes, ironed my shirt, and headed for campus. I met my roommate Austin for a workout only to discover that we were rained out. We decided last minute to head to the old gym on campus (Reid Gym, built in the 19 somethings) where we could hang gymnastic rings and use the tumbling mats that the cheerleading team practices on. Close to the time we arrived I saw an old professor and shared that I had used her budget outline from an entrepreneurship required Parks and Rec Management. She responded with excitement, congratulated me and then invited me to come speak to her current class about my practical application of the class material. I was really honored to be invited to do this. That particular professor was very receptive to my calling into ministry once I finished my degree. Not all professors were.

By this time It was 4 o'clock, knowing that the cheerleading squad practices at 5 we started our warm up and WOD (Workout of the Day). Towards the end of the workout cheerleaders began poring into the gym . We moved our things out of their way relocating to finish. A couple of guys passing buy noticed that we were doing a crossfit (current fitness trend) styled workout. Expressing extreme intrest they asked if they could join us in the future. We were happy to meet them and exchanged numbers. I was excited about this because its a chance to meet new students and share Christ through a mutual interest. Continuing with our work out, for the second time a few guys and girls on the cheer squad noticed what we were doing (a combination of two different calisthenic movements: The burpee lateral jump and ring muscle ups). What happened next was truly unexpected.

The coach came over to me introduced her self and asked about our work out. I gave a short answer and commented that the squad would benefit from this particular type of conditioning. She responded by inviting me to come one evening and share what I knew with the squad. She said that she likes to incorporate new things into their training! I was shocked, laughing slightly I shared that I wasn't a professional nor did I have a personal training certification, but that I have spent a lot of personal time studying sports science, and familiarizing myself with up to date research. She persisted in asking if I would be willing to share with the team. I gave her my business card and told her about my internship. We agreed to talk over email and arrange a time for me to share. I have already emailed her and can't wait for a reply. Many, many times I have given my workouts to God and asked that He take my interest in fitness and be glorified with it, today was a breakthrough in the answering of that prayer. I see this as a fun opportunity to integrate myself in the lives of the students via a non spiritual arena.

After cleaning up and changing I headed to starbucks on campus where I started on my days tasks. These were mostly organizational and communication related things, but I did started off with some reading. Later I saw sitting behind me a couple of people who had also been in the gym earlier. I introduced myself and we began talking. It turns out that both of them one guy and one girl are pole vaulters for Westerns Track team. We talked about sport physiology and various approaches to training. The guy and I hit it off pretty well. We plan to meet up and exchange knowledge about training over a workout middle of next week. Again, I see the Lord moving here in a very practical way. He is simply using me, which is very cool. Its very exciting to see Him incorporate one of my favorite things into my ministry on this campus.

Tomorrow I get to spend the entire day on campus, I hope He continues to use me like He did today, its extremely refreshing!

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

BDC Chapters 1-6

Unleashing The Word Chapters 1-8

Monday, October 28, 2013

Center Church: Chapters 1 &amp; 2

Friday, October 18, 2013

Saturday, August 24, 2013

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

First day on Campus

Center Church: Chapters 1 & 2