Christmas Eve

For those of you that missed the Christmas Eve candle light service, I have listed a few observations below:
1. As always, we had a great crowd turn out to celebrate the night before Jesus' birthday.
2. The MVC campus and stage were beautifully decorated - a big shout out to those of you that helped.
3. Russian tea, hot chocolate, and coffee from Nicaragua were a perfect match for the Christmas cookies that were served in the coffee house.
4. Candle light, the Christmas story, and the reason Jesus came to earth were all very moving stories as we prepare for Jesus' birth.
5. Our wishes are that you and your family will enjoy a GREAT Christmas and a Happy New Year this year - 2011 will be an even better year!!! I am confident!!!
6. Please plan to attend this Sunday - Dec 26th for a very special Christmas Service!!! Bring a friend!!!
I love you all and pray that God's blessings will remain upon each of you and your families throughout this Christmas season!!! Merry Christmas!!!
Kevin

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About Sunday

A few observations about yesterday...
1. The children, youth, and praise team did a magnificent job sharing the love of Jesus thru music! What a wonderful way to move into the Christmas season.
2. One man told me that he wanted to give to the building fund because it was obvious that we have a huge hole in the roof - he was referring to the snow falling on the stage!!! lol!
3. The song "Away in a Manger" that was sang by the children blew me away! It took me back to my own childhood and how excited I would get when we started singing carols, putting up the tree and wrapping presents.
4. There were several decisions made for Christ today as well as numerous re-dedications to Christ!!! Folks, that's why we exist!!!
5. I felt the business meeting went well but I wish more of you would come to these gatherings. We had 43 folks there.
6. The budget was approved for Jan-Jun 2011. We also voted to begin a building fund campaign to support numerous improvements on the church campus. The building fund campaign will start in February.
7. This Friday night, December 24th, at 9:00 pm, we will have a short candlelight service at the church. I cordially invite each of you to attend and bring a friend.
8. Lynn and I, along with the staff of MVC wish all of you a very merry Christmas and a happy new year!!!

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If I Were A Goose

There was once a man who didn’t believe in God, and he didn’t hesitate to let others know how he felt about religion and religious holidays, like Christmas. His wife, however, did believe, and she raised their children to also have faith in God and Jesus, despite his disparaging comments.

One snowy Christmas Eve, his wife was taking their children to a Christmas Eve service in the farm community in which they lived. She asked him to come, but he refused. “That story is nonsense!” he said. “Why would God lower Himself to come to Earth as a man? That’s ridiculous!” So she and the children left, and he stayed home. A while later, the winds grew stronger and the snow turned into a blizzard. As the man looked out the window, all he saw was a blinding snowstorm. He sat down to relax before the fire for the evening.

Then he heard a loud thump. Something had hit the window. Then another thump. He looked out, but couldn’t see more than a few feet. When the snow let up a little, he ventured outside to see what could have been beating on his window. In the field near his house he saw a flock of wild geese. Apparently they had been flying south for the winter when they got caught in the snowstorm and couldn’t go on. They were lost and stranded on his farm, with no food or shelter. They just flapped their wings and flew aroundthe field in low circles, blindly and aimlessly. A couple of them had flown into his window, it seemed.

The man felt sorry for the geese and wanted to help them. The barn would be a great place for them to stay, he thought. It’s warm and safe; surely they could spend the night and wait out the storm. So he walked over to the barn and opened the doors wide, then watched and waited, hoping they would notice the open barn and go inside. But the geese just fluttered around aimlessly and didn’t seem to notice the barn or realize what it could mean for them. The man tried to get their attention, but that just seemed to scare them and they moved further away. He went into the house and came with some bread, broke it up, and made a bread crumb trail leading to the barn. They still didn’t catch on. Now he was getting frustrated. He got behind them and tried to shoo them toward the barn, but they only got more scared and scattered in every direction except toward the barn.

Nothing he did could get them to go into the barn where they would be warm and safe. “Why don’t they follow me?!” he exclaimed. “Can’t they see this is the only place where they can survive the storm?” He thought for a moment and realized that they just wouldn’t follow a human. “If only I were a goose, then I could save them,” he said out loud. Then he had an idea. He went into barn, got one of his own geese, and carried it in his arms as he circled around behind the flock of wild geese. He then released it. His goose flew through the flock and straight into the barn–and one by one the other geese followed it to safety.

He stood silently for a moment as the words he had spoken a few minutes earlier replayed in his mind: “If only I were a goose, then I could save them!” Then he thought about what he had said to his wife earlier. “Why would God want to be like us? That’s ridiculous!” Suddenly it all made sense. That is what God had done. We were like the geese–blind, lost, perishing. God had His Son become like us so He could show us the way and save us. That was the meaning of Christmas, he realized.

As the winds and blinding snow died down, his soul became quiet and pondered this wonderful thought. Suddenly he understood what Christmas was all about, why Christ had come. Years of doubt and disbelief vanished like the passing storm. He fell to his knees in the snow, and prayed his first prayer: “Thank You, God, for coming in human form to get me out of the storm!”

Let the spirit of Christmas begin in your heart.
(The author of this story is unknown)

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You're not alone

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you felt all alone? You’re facing so many things that you feel no one could understand what you’re going thru. I’ve been there numerous times. A lot of those times, I handled the situation incorrectly. When we get into a rut like that, it’s easy to withdraw from our friends and family. Sometimes we even withdraw from God. But that’s the opposite of what we should do. If God had intended for us to struggle thru life all alone, He wouldn’t have put 6+ billion other people on the planet. Maybe it’s embarrassment that keeps us away. It could be a feeling of failure or disgrace or anger. Whatever the reason, withdrawing does not lead to healing and spiritual health. I know for me, sometimes I feel like “the preacher” has to have it all together so I can’t share my problems with others. No one can know. If they did, I wouldn’t be effective as a pastor any longer. Of course that’s a total, flat-out lie. I don’t have it all together. I probably have more issues than anyone in the church. And even though it’s hard sometimes, the best way for me to work my way thru a struggle is to confide in a friend. Turn to God in prayer. Open the Psalms and start reading the encouraging words of David. And believe with all my heart that “He will never leave me nor forsake me”. This time of year, it’s common for folks to get what is called “the holiday blues”. If you find yourself struggling, don’t withdraw. Don’t recede into a dark room and pull the blinds. Get out. Go for a walk. Call a friend. Talk to Jesus. No matter what you’re facing, He understands. You are not alone. He is with you.

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About Sunday

What an incredible Sunday!!! I know the weather was bad, but that didn't stop the Holy Spirit from being there!!! A few observations...
1. Although the second service attendance was a little less than usual, the first service was a lot larger than usual.
2. It has been a long time since we had 8 baptisms, 5 new members join the church, and 9 decisions for Christ all in the same service!!! That pumps me up!!!
3. Thanks to those of you that volunteer for our weekend worship!!! Yesterday would have been tough without you parkers, greeters, and those who spread "snow melt" on all the icy places!!!
4. The Christmas music is getting me excited about Christmas day!!! Don't forget that next Sunday, Dec 12th, is the Christmas program - 9:30 and 11:00 am. Come and bring a friend!!!
5. Also mark on your calendars the Christmas Eve Candlelight service at 9 pm. That is always such a special evening.
6. I also want to remind everyone of the annual business meeting next Sunday evening. Some exciting things are happening!!! Come celebrate what God is doing.

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About Sunday

What a great Sunday! I was excited just seeing the CHRISTMAS decorations - especially the beautifully adorned trees!!! Thanks to all of you that helped create a festive and reverent atmosphere for the church!!! Now, some observations from this morning...

1. I had a great time this morning explaining the foundation of what we believe. There are so many among us who are confused and have accepted the lie that all religions are "created equal".

2. When you heard the sermon today, did it resonate with you personally? What about with the interaction you have with your friends?

3. So many of you got a chuckle out of the "God Goo Orb" religion. That's really a belief, if you can believe it!!! Man, we're really messed up on this mudball we call earth.

4. Do you know enough about your beliefs that you could share them with your friends? Do you think you could answer the question, "Who do you think God is?"

5. If you're uncertain of what you believe, how do you ever hope to convince another person that what you say you believe is right? Something to think about.

6. Four people prayed a prayer of faith and made a decision to follow Christ this morning - that always stokes me!!!!!!!!!!!

7. Thanks for sharing in Bill Friedrich's ordination. I can think of no one who is more deserving than he... Thanks for serving Bill (and Wanda)!!!!!

8. Can you believe that CHRISTMAS is upon us? It took me by surprise when the announcement was made about Saturday's parade!!! Hope you plan on being there and supporting MVC!!!

9. The service ended today on a sorrowful note. There are so many people all around us that are confused, discouraged, unhappy, hurt, and any number of other challenges. God has called all of us to minister the grace and love of Christ to them... Are you? What have you done in response to His love and blessings in your life?

I hope you all have a great week! Look forward to seeing you all later!!!
Blessings in Christ,
Kevin

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Thanksgiving

It happened that as he made his way toward Jerusalem, he crossed over the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village, ten men, all lepers, met him. They kept their distance but raised their voices, calling out, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” Taking a good look at them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.”

They went, and while still on their way, became clean. One of them, when he realized that he was healed, turned around and came back, shouting his gratitude, glorifying God. He kneeled at Jesus’ feet, so grateful. He couldn’t thank him enough—and he was a Samaritan.

Jesus said, “Were not ten healed? Where are the nine? Can none be found to come back and give glory to God except this outsider?” Then he said to him, “Get up. On your way. Your faith has healed and saved you.” (Luke 17:11-19, The Message)

This is a great passage as we celebrate Thanksgiving. We read it and understand it, but so many of us don’t practice it. We don’t return to the Lord and thank Him for His blessings.

One thing that has always bothered me is the fact that we only set one day aside to give thanks. Shouldn’t giving thanks be a regular, on-going, daily event? I thank so, and I encourage you to not only give thanks today, 11/25/10, but everyday.

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About Sunday

Hello everyone. I have thoroughly enjoyed bowhunting in Illinois for the past two weeks. I must have seen 150 deer, but none that I took with my bow. I was looking for a special buck and he never came within range. I had a great time however, and now I am excited to be back in full swing at MVC! Yesterday was an awesome day of worship...

1. At least 5 people made the decision to become Christ followers. That always thrills my soul!!!

2. Isn't it true that many of us live a life where we believe God is to be our servant and make us happy instead of a life where we are to serve and glorify Him?

3. It's amazing how God wants to bless us with treasures, promises, joy, peace, strength, and innumerable blessings, yet instead of pursuing His blessings we pursue the temporary things of this world believing they will make us happy... Go figure...

4. Next week we are going to tackle the lie that says, "It doesn't matter what you believe as long as you are sincere." Can't wait for that one...

5. Thanks to all of you for your generous support of Operation Christmas Child. Approximately 20% more boxes were given this year than last year. That's awesome!!!

6. I was overwhelmed by the surprise video and presentation at the end of the service. It's hard to believe that yesterday was my tenth year anniversary as your senior pastor. I am the most blessed. You have all shown me and my family much love and we look forward to what God is going to do in the next ten years.

7. My prayer is that all of you will have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!!! Spend time with your family and friends. Eat turkey and ham. And watch some football. But don't neglect to give thanks to God for His tremendous blessings!!!! I love you all - Happy Thanksgiving.

8. We spoke of an annual business meeting to be held Dec. 12, 2010. At this meeting, we will be presenting an updated constitution.

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About Sunday

What a glorious day to return from a few days hunting!!! I so enjoy gathering with all of you for a time of worship and fellowship!!! A few thoughts about this day....
1. Thanks to all of the veterans who have served our nation in the military armed forces. What a great honor to stand with all of you for this time of celebration. It was such a privilege to honor and recognize you all. You are special in all of our hearts!!!
2. I believe this new series is going to challenge our hearts in a way that we've never been challenged before. Why? Because it will cause us to examine the foundations of our belief systems and identify any areas where we have accepted less than the truth. But in order for the truth to be revealed, we must be vulnerable to the fact that we may have already ventured into the gray areas.
3. Many of you approached me after the service indicating that you found yourself questioning whether or not you had fallen victim to the lies of the enemy... That's a good thing!!! Let the Holy Spirit guide you. Let Him convict you of anything in your life that may be contrary to the truth of the Scriptures.
4. I was so blessed to hear that the women's event - "Holiday Extravaganza" was so successful. You ladies have so much to teach us men in the area of fellowship and discipleship.
5. Yes, I did use the illustration from Caddy Shack where the people thought poop was floating in the pool. I also talked about peeing on an electric fence... Go figure! I'm pretty much an everyday guy I guess!!! And I'm proud of it!!!
6. We will have our annual business meeting December 12th and at that meeting we will approve the 2011 budget and vote on constitutional changes.
7. I'm going back to Illinois this week to hunt for the monster whitetailed deer that got away!!! I will be back for Sunday's sermon, however. I'll see you all then!!!
Love you all and count it a tremendous privilege to be your pastor...
Kevin

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Hunting

As I'm sure you've noticed, I haven't posted to my blog this week. The reason is because I am in wonderful Illinois bowhunting!!! I'm having a great time although Mr. Big Buck hasn't crossed my path yet. I'll catch back up with you all next week...
Love you all,
Kevin

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Pride and Prayer

As I watched the Pittsburg Steelers play football this past weekend, one player clearly stood out. He is a rather small defensive back who packs a wallop like a freight train and plays with no fear. In seven seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Troy Polamalu has won two Super Bowls and played in five Pro Bowls.

With his success, Troy strives to maintain Christian character. In an interview with CBN, he said, "Pride is tough. You go to high school, and it's pride, courage. It's all these types of words that we use to motivate us. I don't think there's anywhere in the Scriptures ... where pride was ever a positive characteristic of anybody. That kind of egotism is a really tough struggle—especially in this business. ... It's a big struggle of mine."

Polamalu goes on to say that it's not the obvious things that are the hardest to deal with in his life.

"The big things are the easiest to turn away from. It's the accumulation of small things that are hard. People know adultery's bad and murder's bad. I'm not going to go out and sleep with the first girl I see. But when your eyes start wandering, and you become a little more jealous and envious, and these passions start rising up inside of you -- that's when it really becomes dangerous. Because the Devil doesn't work that way. His strategy is always to be very subtle and continue to build on top of that evil seed that he planted."

What keeps him rooted? Prayer. Polamalu says, "As your prayer life becomes more and more fine tuned, and your conscience becomes more and more fine tuned, you're able to start plucking away at these things."

My heart is not proud, O Lord, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me. (Psalm 131:1-2)

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About Sunday

A few thoughts about yesterday...
1. What a great Sunday. Worshiping with you all never gets old.

2. I want to remind you of the challenges I made last week, especially the part about each person inviting one person to be your guest at church. I believe if we will do this, we can double the size of our faith family before the new year!!!

3. We saw at least 10 decisions made for Christ yesterday. And that always pumps me up... it's why we exist!!!

4. Thank you all for the kindness that you showed me and my family for pastors appreciation month. It is such a wonderful blessing to serve as the pastor of this church.

5. Thanks for all of you that helped with the Fall Festival last evening - from the cooks, to the game leaders, to the security guards. The estimates are that more than 1000 people showed up and experienced the love of Jesus as we took it to the streets!!!

6. I would like for all of you to pray for the people that came in contact with folks from Mountain View during the festival. Ask God to work in their hearts and bring fruit to the seeds that were sown.

7. Hopefully a week from now I will be having a great time relaxing and enjoying life from a tree stand!!! I can hardly wait!!!

8. It's hard to believe that Lynn and I have been at Mountain View for 10 years!!! The average tenure for a pastor at a church is only 2 1/2 years!!! Thanks for putting up with us!!! We love you all and are excited about what God is going to do in the future!!!

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Potential

Do you ever get the sense that you’re not living up to all that you could be? That you’re not reaching your full potential? Or are you obsessed with helping your child or grandchild reach their full potential, and you're worried that they're not there?

That’s important to me – especially now that I have reached the half-century mark in life. I want to be the kind of person who lives to my full potential and inspires and equips others to do the same.

Abraham Lincoln once said, “I don’t know who my grandfather was; I am much more concerned to know what his grandson will be.”

His point was that it doesn’t matter where I came from, what circumstances I was born into, what my parents or grandparents did or didn’t do. It is up to me to be the best me that I can be.

Do you or someone you know feel stuck in the past – past decisions that they’ve made, or past decisions that others have made for them? The good news is that you can be free from all of that!

Lincoln became President at the age of 52; and at the age of 56, he died. When I think about his age, and what he accomplished as President, his words at the age of 40 are so profound – “And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.”

I’ll be 50 in January 2011, and I’ve been thinking a lot about how much “life” I’ve enjoyed in my years so far. I feel really great about the life God has given me – about the family I’ve been blessed with and the work that I love to do. But I know I haven’t lived up to my full potential yet. I’m on a journey to live my life’s purpose, achieve my dreams, and live up to my full potential. I hope you’ll come along with me. We don’t know how many years we have left, do we? So, we’ve got to make the rest of our years count, regardless of what they may be… and in so doing, we can make the most difference in our world today!!!

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You know where my mind is today.......

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A Goal Line Stand

A former head coach of Louisiana State University football team once said, "You learn more character on the 2 yard line than anywhere else in life."

As you all know, I really enjoy watching a good game of football – especially if the Greenbay Packers are playing.

I especially like to see a good goal line stand. That’s what it’s called when you’re on about the 2 yard line and you’re either about to score or the other team is about to score on you. That's when it's time to dig in. If you’re on defense, the 2 yard line is where you find out whether you have the fortitude to make a last minute stand against defeat. If you’re on offense, it’s about pushing the rest of the way through to the end zone and scoring a touchdown.

Maybe you feel as though you’re on the 2 yard line now -- advancing toward success or fighting off defeat. Or maybe you’re experiencing both ... because, unlike football, in life it's possible to be both places at once.

So, take a look at the challenges you're facing today. What do you need to do? Push a little harder in one area? Stand a little stronger in another? Most importantly, we all need to persevere, to persist in doing good one more day, making one more effort to accomplish that to which we have been called.

"Let us not become weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." (Galatians 6:10 KJV)

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About Sunday

A few reflections about Sunday.
1. In the same spirit as the Geico commercials - Did yesterday's sermon create some tension in the church? Is it a bad idea to get into a snowball fight with pitching great Randy Johnson?
2. Tension is a good thing, however. We're stretched thru tension. We grow thru tension. And because of tension, we make decisions.
3. I am still amazed at God's challenge from Malachi 3:10 - "Test Me in this".
4. I read this post the other day - "Humanity has ever been the same. Gold is to be a servant. It is when we elevate it to a god that we are in serious trouble. "The love of money is the root of all evil." If you have means, make them count for the Master." Very well put.
5. Isn't it so true that sometimes we can get so busy talking religion that we neglect to do the practical! The church is called to make a difference. You and I do our parts by giving, serving, loving and sharing.
6. The statistic about Christians and tithing still gets me -- People that call themselves "believers" give less than 2% of their income!!! That astounds me!!!
7. It's incredible how we will entrust our eternity to Christ, but we don't trust Him with our finances.
8. I hope many of you will take the challenges from the sermon seriously. If you will, you'll find that God is faithful in more ways than you could ever imagine!!!
9. Hope to see you next week. We're going to talk about "walking the talk".
10. Kudos to Adam Hatton!!! Officiated his first marriage this weekend!!!
Love to you all. kb

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Be Prepared

As the temperatures drop and the leaves turn colors we know that it is time to get prepared for a seasonal change. You probably start to change your wardrobe from short sleeves to long sleeves and add jackets and sweaters. We also prepare for the leaves. They’re beautiful while they’re on the trees, but when they fall it’s time to get out the rakes and leaf bags. Preparation is important.

Can you imagine heading into winter with nothing but summer clothes? Or into fall without rakes, and the tools necessary to keep the lawn work done? To be prepared we store seasonal things away so that they are ready to be used when the time is right.
The way that we prepare for the changing seasons is also how we prepare for the changing situations in life. God’s Word says in 2 Timothy 4:2, “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction.”
God’s Word is a storehouse of words for any situation just as our attics and crawlspaces that keep our seasonal items. Whenever we need Christmas decorations we go find them. The same is true with we need to correct, rebuke or encourage. We simply go to God’s Word to find the words we need in whatever situation.
Situations change all the time. For the one who thinks he is right all the time, God’s Word may show him that he is wrong. For the one who breaks the commands of God, the Word speaks words of reproach to bring him or her back to God’s ways. For the family that is struggling or the individual whose faith is weak, God speaks through his Word to give comfort and guidance.
We all possess the ability to use God’s Word in any situation. We may think we are not qualified because we have spent little time in study. But when the time is right God gives us the words to say. He lets the words pour from our hearts in ways we never thought possible.
And yet the more we immerse ourselves daily in the wealth of information the better we will be able help in any situation. As we study and grow in our faith and knowledge it will be like a well marked box in the garage. We know just which box to open to find the garden tools. So we will know which passage to turn to as we give correction, rebuke and encouragement.
The seasons will come and go, but God’s Word remains the same forever. No matter what the situation is we can always turn to God’s Word for the right thing to say.

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About Sunday

What an amazing day at Mountain View. I'm not sure if I've had as much immediate feed back after a sermon as I received today. A few thoughts about Sunday....
1. I was surprised that so many of you felt as though you were correctly taught about speaking in tongues for the very first time.
2. Even those who come from 'ultra-charismatic' backgrounds were receptive of the teaching as we expounded the truth of God's Word.
3. My hope is that the teaching from today will impact our lives in such a way as to guide our behavior. God is still on His throne and He is still speaking to His people. But He has also prescribed a manner in which these things take place (1 Cor. 14).
4. Yes I did say that some preachers totally confuse me when in the middle of their sermon they blurt out something like - "shab baba dobe, I feel the Spirit here today!" Where is the interpretation so that all of us might agree? How can we say amen! or join in thanksgiving if we don't know what is being said?
5. Tongues is certainly a subject of controversy, but it shouldn't be that way. If we would all take time to read 1 Corinthians 12, 13 and 14, most of the confusion could be cleared up.
I realize that this study has touched a nerve in numerous folks. My goal has not been to create confusion, but to point out the truth clearly based upon God's Word.
My hope is that each of us will take these lessons and the Scriptures and do our own investigation as to the validity of the gifts of the Spirit and what our gifts might be.
As always, I want you to know that I am unbelievably blessed to be your pastor. I love each and every one of you and look forward to our journey together in the future. I sincerely believe that God wants to change Western North Carolina thru this family of faith.... And that can only happen thru the presence and the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives!!!!!!!

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Make a Difference - 1

Most people I know want to live a life of significance. Unfortunately, many of them aren't really sure what that means. It involves more than fame and fortune; it involves making a difference. How do you go about doing that? In spite of tremendous opposition, the early church made an impact through a commitment to social action, holiness, discipleship and evangelism. So how does that apply to our lives today?
One thing we can do is share with others what Jesus has done for us, and let them know how they too, can have a relationship with him. If we give others a chance to respond to the gospel, and not just a slick sales pitch, they will experience the life-changing power of Jesus first hand.
We've got a story to tell the world. It's a message that truly can make a difference in people's lives, a difference that will last forever. So, we must be careful how we share our message. If we come across like religious bullies we may drive people away and they'll never hear what we have to say. But if we don't take the initiative to tell others, how else will they hear the gospel? The only way we can achieve the right balance is to be sensitive to the leading of the Spirit, focus on telling others about Jesus, and then let them respond. That’s how Philip shared his faith with the Ethiopian. Philip teaches us that sharing our faith is not confrontation, it's communication. It's connecting with another person so that we can help them connect with Christ. We have an upcoming series which will show us the importance of sharing our faith in such a way as to attract unbelievers instead of “scaring them off”. Hope you will join us beginning October 24th.

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The Spirit-filled Life

Over the years, I have seen many examples of how living the Spirit-filled life changes people. I've seen it happen to Methodists, Wesleyn’s, Baptists and Fundamentalists and Liberals and people of every other imaginable faith tradition. When they experience a personal connection with the Holy Spirit, their life goes into overdrive. Their prayer life changes, they experience a new joy; they experience power over sin; and they feel a closeness to God that they've never felt before.

This is what Jesus said would happen. He told his disciples...

I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever -- the Spirit of truth. (John 14:16)

The Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. (John 14:27) After the resurrection he told the disciples: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

The experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit is a life-changing experience. It's an experience that opens the door to power in your life, and peace in your life, and the presence of God in your life. The Spirit-filled life is not intended to be an option for believers, it's intended to be a given -- an essential part of living the Christian life.

There is so much more to the Christian life than just having your sins forgiven. We also receive the wonderful gift of the Holy Spirit--and that changes everything. When we live under the influence of the Holy Spirit, we have a deeper relationship with God than we could ever imagine. When we live the Spirit-filled life, He controls and directs our every step. And He gives us the power to live life day by day. So have you experienced the wonderful Spirit-filled life?

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About Sunday

A few thoughts on the wonderful time we shared together in worship Sunday.
1. No doubt God was in the house. The Holy Spirit prompted me to open up the second service in a time of prayer. It was obvious that many folks needed that time. I'm glad I obeyed the Spirit.
2. The worship time was truly anointed. I never cease to be amazed at how "the Spirit of the Lord inhabits the praises of His people."
3. Yes, I did say that if you wanted to learn more about the issue of tongues come back next Sunday. Lay down your traditions at the door and open your heart to the Word of God.
4. And yes, I did say that even though spiritual gifts aren't odd and freaky, there are a lot of odd and freaky people who claim to have spiritual gifts.
5. The main point about spiritual gifts is that they are given for the common good of the Body of Christ. It's not a spiritual gift that is to be used in the church if it doesn't build up the church.
6. When I said I didn't have the gift of healing, I didn't mean that I won't pray for you if you need to be healed. The Holy Spirit is the One who does the ministry of healing and He can do so thru anyone He chooses. It's sort of like the spiritual gift of evangelism - not everyone has the gift of evangelism, but all Christians are called to evangelize the lost.
7. I hope this series is serving to clear up a lot of the confusion that has entered the Church today. I want only the truth from God's Word, don't you?
8. Thanks for your continuing prayers for my leg. It gets better with each passing day.
As always, I am so honored to be your pastor. These days are the best of my life and I look forward to what God has in store for us in the future.
See you next Sunday - Bring someone with you! And get here early. Because of the sermon topic, I am expecting a large crowd.

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Yielding to the Holy Spirit

As I was researching the web for information concerning this week's message on the Holy Spirit, I ran across this article from James McDonald.
I believe it is totally applicable to our learning to live the "Spirit-filled life".

"So when they had come together, they asked him, 'Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?' He said to them, 'It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.' " - Acts 1:6-8

Every good thing God wants to shower on your life comes through the instrumentality of the Holy Spirit. Everything. The fruit of the Spirit, understanding of God's Word, love of worship, strength in a trial, grace to forgive, compassion for the lost, comfort in heartache, boldness in witnessing, power in ministry; all of this is yours when you live the Christian life in the Spirit's power. And conversely, none of it is yours when you attempt to live the Christian life any other way. Without the Holy Spirit, God has made no other provision for you to live the Christian life.

The Holy Spirit is the power. Galatians 2:20 says, "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me." There is no Christian life apart from Christ in you and Christ is only in you by His Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ told His disciples that "if I go, the Comforter will come, if I don’t go, He's not coming. I have been with you," Jesus said in John 14:16, "but He will be in you." That's the promise of the Holy Spirit - not Jesus by your side talking to you, but His Holy Spirit in you, actually living out the Christian life through you.

Yes, with our will we can respond obediently to what we know pleases God - like worshiping, and walking with, and working for Christ, but even in the middle of that, the power to live the Christian life is "Christ in you the hope of glory," as Colossians 1:27 says. That's why Jesus said to the disciples in Acts 1:8, "Just get in a room and wait for the Holy Spirit to come. Do not pass Go, do not collect $200." The disciples probably wanted to get a plan together for building the church. "Can't we work on the brochures?" But Jesus told them to wait for the Holy Spirit. He knew they didn't have the capacity to do anything in their own flesh/power. "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses for Me." "When you have the Holy Spirit you'll be able to do it all." The Christian life is yieldedness to the Spirit of Christ living His life in you. Are you yielded to Him? He's the key to victorious Christian living.

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About Sunday

Yesterday was an incredible day for me - actually, every Sunday is always an incredible day!!! It reminds us that the tomb is empty, God is on His throne, and the Holy Spirit lives inside us!!! A few thoughts about yesterday:
1. Dustin led us in worship in a wonderful way - despite the fact that he had a migraine!!! The longer he worshiped, the better he felt!!!
2. It was great to see so many of you taking books home with you. I realize that some of you may not like the fact that we are clearing out the library, but it is necessary. The nursery has grown to the point that our babies and toddlers must be separated. The library is being converted to the toddler room.
3. From the response, I know that this sermon series is touching a nerve. Some of you are learning about the Holy Spirit in this way for the first time!!! That excites me.
4. Thank God for the 20+ people that responded to the message!!! That rocks my boat!!!
5. I have no doubts that God wants to do much, much more in and thru the lives of His children. That's why He sent the Holy Spirit. Why is it that so many believers refuse to surrender their lives to be filled with Him?
6. My prayer is that we will be filled with the Spirit and have the knowledge to understand how high, how wide and how deep the Father's love is for us.
7. I am looking forward to next week when we will be talking about the Gifts of the Spirit!!! Come early so you can get a seat and bring someone with you!!!

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Your Spiritual Gift(s)

Do you know what spiritual gift or gifts you have? Paul mentions the gifts of the Spirit in 1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12, as well as in his letter to the church in Ephesus. Have you discovered how the Holy Spirit has gifted you? Gifts are defined by the benefit they give. That's why there's a difference between a talent and a spiritual gift.
For example, singing isn't a spiritual gift. Lots of people can sing. However, the people in our church that lead us in worship, sacrifices nights for practice and weekends for our services. Their spiritual gift is service, and their vocal ability gives them the opportunity to practice their spiritual gift. If these gifted folks were suddenly unable to sing, they would find another way to serve.
You don't need talent to be gifted. The Spirit has given you a gift that you can use to build up others. Maybe it is giving. Maybe it is teaching. Maybe it leadership. What do you think it could be?
Using your spiritual gift puts purpose into everything you do. It becomes an act of obedience to God. It goes from being a hobby to being a ministry. You're not just playing the piano, or working in the nursery, or leading a committee, or dropping a few bucks in the plate--you're ministering to others. You are doing the work of God. The result is that the seemingly mundane details take on new meaning--suddenly they are filled with eternal significance. Discover your spiritual gift and put it to use.

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The work of the Holy Spirit

"It is the work of the Holy Spirit that has made the difference in the life of the church. It is he who empowers us; it is he who convicts us and strengthens us." Bill Bright, founder of Campus Crusade for Christ, said that if there was one message he could preach to the church, it would be a message about how to be filled with the Holy Spirit. That's how much of a difference the filling of the Holy Spirit can make in a person's life.

I've known many people who have given up trying to live the Christian life--it's too hard. The fact is, it's not just hard, it's impossible. It's impossible to live the Christian life without the Holy Spirit's power. The Holy Spirit is the oil that makes the machinery of your life run smoothly. Have you ever driven a car without oil? You know what happens, don't you? The engine locks up and breaks down. It's the same way for a Christian who lives without the oil of the Holy Spirit in his or her life.

Some of you have been walking in the Spirit for many years; for others the idea of being filled with the power of the Holy Spirit is a new concept. But the fact is that all of us--from the greatest to the least of us--need the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. This Sunday we'll look at what the Power of the Holy Spirit can do for you. I hope you will join us!!!

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The Fullness of the Spirit

D.L. Moody once said, "I firmly believe that the moment our hearts are emptied of pride and selfishness and ambition and self-seeking and every thing that is contrary to God's law, the Holy Ghost will come and fill every corner of our hearts; but if we are full of pride and conceit and ambition and self-seeking and pleasure and the world, there is no room for the Spirit of God; and I believe many a man is praying to God to fill him when he is full already with something else."

The fullness of the Spirit is God's promise to all believers. But if we think He can be just an "add-on" to the rest of our lives, we're wrong. We must first come before God in brokenness and surrender, asking Him to forgive our sins of selfishness, pride and every thing that is contrary to His Word.

That doesn't mean we must be perfect. Nor does it mean that we will never have sin crowd our hearts again. But we must be obedient to God, repent of our sin and pursue holiness. And with that firm resolve, continually surrender to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to flood your life. The Spirit of God will breathe life into you. Do your part and then let God do His part.

In the book of Ephesians Paul commands us, Be filled with the Holy Spirit. (Ephesians 5:18) The fact that he expresses it this way, as an imperative command, tells us that being filled with the Holy Spirit is an act of obedience on our part. And it's something we initiate by asking for it and claiming it as God's promise.

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About Sunday

A few thoughts about Sunday…

1. It was great to have the men from Georgia and Florida with us. We had a wonderful time together this weekend at the men’s conference. If you missed, we will be having another one next year!!! Plan to be there. You won't regret it.

2. Okay, confession time - I goofed up in the second service yesterday. Don’t know if you noticed, but I talked about Peter addressing the Sanhedrin and being killed. It was STEPHEN!!! I felt like such a dork!!! Thanks Dad for keeping me straight.

3. I’m excited about this new series. We laid the foundation yesterday and this coming week we’re going to build.

4. I’m pretty sure we had 2 people walk out of the service during the sermon. Man, if what I said Sunday upset them, they might want to consider taking a vacation away for a few weeks!!! But like one of my pastor buddies said, “If you aren’t offending at least someone each week, you’re probably not preaching the Bible”!

5. Isn’t it great that Fall has arrived? Hopefully some of this hot weather will dissipate into cool days and changing colors.

6. Hey folks, I don’t tell you enough, but I am tremendously blessed to serve you as your pastor. Thanks for your prayers, support, love and encouragement. This weekend, I realized that Lynn and I will have been here 10 years this November – AMAZING!!! God is good!!!

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Being Spirit-filled

Bill Bright, founder of Campus Crusade for Christ, once said "If there were only one truth I could share with the Christian world, it would be 'how to be filled with the Holy Spirit,' for there is no single truth that is more important to the believer."

So what does it mean to “be filled with the Holy Spirit”? When you are filled with the Holy Spirit, that doesn't mean you get more of the Spirit. It means that the Spirit gets more of you. "Being filled" with the Holy Spirit means "being led by" or "controlled by" the Holy Spirit. This is the key to victorious living.

Paul said...So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. (Galatians 5:16)

The obvious question, then, is "How do I get filled with the Holy Spirit?" Let me warn you up front; it’s not easy. You’ve got to do all the right things, say exactly the right word, and follow a difficult specific procedure to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Here’s what you have to do…

ASK in faith BELIEVING....

That's it. If you want to be filled with the Holy Spirit, ask God to fill you with the Holy Spirit. That's what it takes.

You receive the Holy Spirit the same way you receive salvation--through asking. Paul said, Did you receive the Spirit by observing the law, or by believing what you heard? (Galatians 3:2)

Being filled with the Spirit is a matter of asking to be filled and making yourself available to him. Be filled and live in the fullness of the Holy Spirit.

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