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3-1-1990 Preacher's Magazine Volume 65 Number 03 Randal E. Denny (Editor) Olivet Nazarene University

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Recommended Citation Denny, Randal E. (Editor), "Preacher's Magazine Volume 65 Number 03" (1990). Preacher's Magazine. 611. https://digitalcommons.olivet.edu/cotn_pm/611

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BENNER L! Olivet Nazarene

He Has Risen SUITABLE FOR FRAMING

I Can Do Nothing to Make God Love Me More; I Can Do Nothing to Make God Love Me Less. Olivet '^azareneM Universif-v KANKAKEE, ILLINOIS TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOYFUL by Randal E. Denny Editor Seasons to be jolly may come and showed them the golden thread of Help o f the helpless, O abide with go, but Easter ushers in the season grace running through the whole m e! to be joyful. If I could only keep one fabric of Scripture. It could not be Jesus seeks unhurried, intimate page of my Bible for personal de­ separated from the scarlet thread of fellowship with you and me. votion, it would be Luke 24. The atonement. Our Risen Lord reveals himself meaning of the resurrection of What a sermon that must have (vv. 30-35). Perhaps the way He Jesus is embodied for me in Luke’s been! Jesus opened the Scriptures broke bread or His intimate way of description of the encounter with — developed, illustrated, and ap­ saying grace triggered their memo­ Jesus on the Emmaus Road. That plied in himself. How I wish that les­ ries of Jesus. Suddenly “their eyes intimate, personal glimpse of our liv­ son from the lips of Jesus had been were opened and they recognized ing Lord walking the dusty, common preserved. Someday, in heaven, I him, and he disappeared from their road with His disheartened disciples hope Jesus will preach that sermon sight” (v. 31). Jesus dramatized that makes Jesus our contemporary. He once again! communion with Him now must be cares. He touches people. He walks Our Risen Lord enters into fellow­ by faith, not by sight. In the breaking and talks with them. ship (vv. 28-30). Arriving at Emmaus of bread at an ordinary meal in an The longer I live the more I have at dusk, Jesus courteously “acted ordinary home Jesus revealed him­ come to view the Christian faith as a as if he were going farther” (v. 28). self. With Jesus, life’s most common journey, a pilgrimage in which Jesus He does not force himself on us. He moments become sacred and spe­ increasingly reveals himself— and awaits an invitation to fellowship. St. cial. we're really headed toward a more Augustine prayed, “Narrow is the The enlightened travelers ex­ complete fellowship with Him. mansion of my soul; enlarge Thou it, claimed, “Were not our hearts burn­ Someone declared, “The darkest that Thou mayest enter in.” ing within us while he talked with us road with Christ is better than the With the compulsion of courtesy on the road and opened the Scrip­ brightest road without Him.” and kind words of hospitality, the tures to us?” (v. 32). Those burning Our Risen Lord draws near (vv. travelers compelled Jesus to remain hearts now rejoiced, “The Lord has 13-16). Jesus’ encounter with the with them: “Stay with us, for it is risen” (v. 34). two discouraged travelers ranks as nearly evening; the day is almost On the slow bus ride to Emmaus, one of the immortal short stories of over” (v. 29). I soaked in the quiet sights. For me it the world. Their conversation had In 1827, Henry Francis Lyte was a holy moment to retrace their steps and to remember their experi­ locked in on the tragedy of the preached his farewell sermon to his ence. But the Emmaus Road is more Cross. They traced over the circum­ congregation of 50 years. His fond stances and events in a morbid cir­ than a geographical location. It’s flock sent him to the French Riviera cle of self-pity. Despair fed despair. your road— and my road. Though for rest and recuperation. Henry Lyte While they returned to their village, we don’t always recognize Him, did not come to breakfast after the “Jesus himself drew near” (v. 15, Jesus is here— walking and talking KJV). Even in our desperation and first night at sea. His body was with us along the way. confusion, Jesus draws near— found on his bunk, his Bible open to Hanging on the wall of my office is whether or not we recognize Him. Luke 24. He had underlined the a gift from my wife— a painting of Our Risen Lord opens the Scrip­ words: “Abide with us: for it is to­ three figures walking along a pas­ tures. Luke wrote, “And beginning ward evening, and the day is far toral lane. It reminds me to look for with Moses and all the Prophets, spent” (v. 29, KJV). His hand Jesus today. He is always there. C. [Jesus] explained to them what was clutched a poem in his writing: Austin Miles exclaimed: said in all the Scriptures concerning Abide with me! Fast falls the even­ And He walks with me, and He himself” (v. 27). Jesus began an ex­ tid e ; talks with me, position of Scripture from each indi­ The darkness deepens: Lord, with And He tells me I am His own; vidual prophetic book, giving the m e a b id e ! And the joy we share as we tarry first correct lesson on Messianic When other helpers fail, and com­ there, teachings of the Old Testament. He forts flee, None other has ever known. Proclaiming Christian Holiness

SUITABLE FOR FRAM ING Unknown ifc EDITORIAL TIs the Season to Be Joyful 1 Randal E. Denny FEATURES Restored 4 James E. Copple w ith Eileen L. Copple Prophet Unawares 7 Elizabeth A. Cutting Glimpses 8 David W. Waltner Peter Remembers— Thirty Years Later 9 James W. Thompson SOCIAL CONCERN Back to the Beginning 10 Carol W ight-Oritton AIDS: The Challenge for Compassion 11 Carol W ight-Oritton Called for This Time 12 Richard F. Schubert The Answer to AIDS: Obedience 14 Tom Nees CHAPLAINCY A Reserve Chaplain— Right Place at the Right Time 17 David A. Tish The Ministry of Presence 17 Jack Nix PASTOR'S PERSONAL GROWTH The Dynamics of Ministerial Morality 18 Lyndon K. McDowell MINISTER'S MATE Listening to God— and Your Husband 21 Jill Briscoe THEOLOGY Freedom and Its Meaning in Ministry 22 J. Kenneth Crider John Wesley's Defense of the Doctrine of Original Sin 26 Herbert McConigle CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Remembering the Elderly 29 J. Grant Swank, Jr.

Consulting Editors Contributing Editors Jack C. Rea Maurice Roberts Eugene L. Stowe Robert Hess Bill Sullivan Jerald D. Johnson Randal E. Denny Howard E. Harmon Director of the Division of John A. Knight E d ito r Church Growth Raymond W. Hum Superintendents Church of the Nazarene William J. Prince Evangelical Friends Church Donald D. Owens Robert Kline Wilbur W. Brannon General Superintendents General Superintendent Director of Pastoral Church of the Nazarene Churches of Christ Cindy Osso M in is trie s Assistant Editor 0. D. Emery in Christian Union Church of the Nazarene Earle L. Wilson Lee Haines R. Donald Shafer Wayne E. Caldwell H. C. Wilson General Conference General Editor General Superintendents Secretary The Wesleyan Church The Wesleyan Church Brethren in Christ Church s

Volume 65 Number 3______MARCH/APRIL/MAY 1990

IDEA MART Picture This 30 Kenneth Vogt H ow to Fold Church Bulletins the Easy "Smyres Way" 30 Ron S. Smyres PASTOR'S PROFESSIONAL GROW TH Thin Skinned or Shock Resistant? 31 Raymond C. Kratzer HOLINESS A Tale of Two Dogmas 33 Doug Samples EVANGELISM Do W e Believe People Are Lost? 34 Robert E. Coleman CHURCH ADMINISTRATION Servant Leadership for a Servant Community 38 LeBron Fairbanks FINANCE Church Employees or Independent Contractors? 42 How John Wesley Handled Money 43 Charles Edward White WORSHIP Kerygmatic Worship 44 Barry E. Bryant PREACHING Send the Good Tidings On 46 Philip Bence We Can't Hear You, Pastor 47 Rolland R. Reece W hy Holiness Ministers Should Read Fosdick 48 Ron Adams WESLEYANA The Influence of Dutch Arminianism on the Theology of John Wesley 49 David Eaton CHURCH MUSIC Music, Martin Luther, and Today's Church 51 Anna Marie Lockard ARK ROCKER W ith the Vanguard 53 A Sharp Pencil HELPFUL REGULARS Preacher's Exchange 37 Book Reviews 52 WORSHIP A N D PREACHING HELPS Sermon and Worship Service Outlines 54 Curtis Lewis, Jr.

Cover Photo: Mark Lisk All unidentified Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright © 1973,1978,1984 by the International Bible Society, and are used by permission. Quotations from the following versions are used by permission. The New American Standard Bible (NASB), © The Lockman Foundation, 1960, 1962,1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977. The New King James Version (NKJV), copyright © 1979, 1980, 1982, Thomas Nelson, Inc., Publishers. The Revised Standard Version of the Bible (RSV), copyrighted 1946, 1952, © 1971,1973. The Good News Bible, Today 's English Version (TEV)— Old Testament © American Bible Society, 1976; New Testament © American Bible Society, 1966, 1971,1976. The King James Version (KJV).

Authors should address all articles and correspondence to Editor, The PREACHERS MAGAZINE is published quarterly by Beacon Hill Press of Kansas City, 2923 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO 64109. Editorial offices at 6401 The Paseo, Kansas City, MO 64131. Address all correspon­ Preacher’s Magazine, 10814 E. Broad­ dence concerning subscriptions to your denominational publishing house. Subscription price: $7.50 per year. way, Spokane, WA 99206. Self- Copyright 1990 by Beacon Hill Press of Kansas City. Litho in U.S.A. addressed, stamped envelopes should accompany all manuscripts. RESTORED by James E. Copple with Eileen L. Copple Wichita, Kans.

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall he was king, he was a murderer; as justification. Those who witnessed not want. He maketh me to lie sure as he slew Goliath, he seduced our suffering and observed the re­ down in green pastures: he lead- and was seduced by Bathsheba. peated journey into folly will ridicule eth me beside the still waters. He This King David knew both his sin the simplicity of our account. The restoreth my soul: he leadeth me and his salvation. Because David majority of you who know nothing of in the paths of righteousness for was aware of his own predicament, our past, but are dependent upon his name’s sake. Yea, though I the Psalms are alive with the hope what we tell you now, will be frus­ walk through the valley of the and salvation of God. David experi­ trated by our failure to see (what is shadow of death, I will fear no evil; enced the restoring work of the to you) the obvious stupidity of our for thou art with me; thy rod and Shepherd. He knew what it was to choices. Further, there are those of thy staff they comfort me. Thou be both lost and found. While all of you who, when confronted by simi­ us have been marked by the despair preparest a table before me in the lar choices, found different paths to presence of mine enemies; thou and hopelessness of sin, there are follow in resolving your conflict. We anointest my head with oil; my those of us whose sins have been do not judge your solution, but we cup runneth over. Surely good­ so conspicuous or hideous that they declare that the Shepherd who guid­ stand as an assault on the whole of ness and mercy shall follow me all ed us out of the quagmire of adul­ the days of my life: and I will dwell the Christian community. This sin is tery, deception, and rejection has not simply measured by minor acts in the house of the Lord FOR given us a promise that what He has EVER (KJV). of transgression; rather this is sin joined together no man can put that seems to weaken the fellowship asunder. he 23rd psalm portrays the real­ of believers. It taints the witness of The preservation of the marriage ity, hope, and promise of man’s God’s people. It is sin that demands commitment must be given greater Trelationship to God. One can searchnot only personal and private pen­ priority in our society. It is only under the literature of the world and find no ance but also a public confession the most extreme circumstances clearer expression of the human that will permit the community of be­ that divorce or dissolution of a mar­ predicament. Perhaps its familiarity lievers to restore fully this broken riage commitment should be toler­ has numbed our senses to the star­ humanity to God’s fellowship. David ated. We chose, with the help of tling, and yet simple, truth to be knew these struggles and endured several dear brothers and sisters, to found in these few verses. Who their pain. When abandoned and fight to maintain what we committed among us cannot quote the whole sinking in the swamp of his own de­ before God and His people. Against psalm or at least recite major por­ spair, he knew only one hope for his incredible odds and facing what ap­ tions? This psalm is a familiar friend deliverance and restoration. That peared to be insurmountable obsta­ whose benefits are taken for grant­ hope was to be found in the Shep­ cles, God worked to restore a bro­ ed and whose presence is greatly herd, the Restorer of his soul. ken relationship. From the rubble of appreciated in the turmoil of life. At a period in our lives when res­ our lives, He fashioned a witness to Like all of Scripture this psalm is toration was a faint hope and sin had His enduring grace and everlasting not fre e of context, culture, and per­ twisted the fabric of our soul, David love. sonal meaning for its author. David, and this affirmation of faith found in “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall shepherd boy, king, and adulterer, the 23rd psalm emerged as a sym­ not want” is a bold and liberating has expressed both the limitation bol of God’s faithful promise, that statement. It is true only as we de­ and confidence of his life. The fear goodness and mercy would once clare our dependence upon God of the enemy, the shadow of death, again fill our days. The paths that and our independence from the the peace of still waters, the hope of lead children of God into sin and de­ power of sin. The cohesive force of goodness and mercy all serve to re­ struction are not easily identified. the Christian marriage is the will­ mind the reader of the narrow line That reality compels us to confess, ingness of a couple to submit their between life and death, hope and at the outset, that what follows is a independence to the sovereign despair. Time has mythologized Da­ woefully inadequate attempt to sum­ Lordship of Jesus Christ. This is no vid and made his sin quaint with marize and articulate events that simple achievement. It requires the sweet sentimentality. Yet, as sure as have no clear cause nor adequate maintenance of spiritual disciplines that continually remind us of who we these accomplishments and the at­ scheduled, which meant that the ur­ are in relationship to this Shepherd. tendant praise distanced us from gency of the moment was lost. This The contemporary marriage is con­ the center of true and holy living. We served only to reinforce my notion fronted with numerous distractions found ourselves living apart. I pur­ that Eileen did not understand or de­ that threaten the stability of even the sued my graduate studies and pub­ sire to share in either my scholarly or best of relationships. In the liberal lic ministry within the church; Eileen ministerial goals. Our lives were far, democratic society, where individu­ pursued the role of teacher and far apart. The affection and senti­ alism has been elevated to the level faithful housewife. Our marriage ap­ mentality were still there; but those of a divine truth, the Christian mar­ peared to be indestructible. Stu­ are a weak foundation for a thriving riage faces its greatest threat. Mu­ dents from the college where I was marriage. tual submission and shared mission teaching came to our home for We cannot detail the specifics of are terms foreign to our ears, and weekly Bible studies and discussion my unfaithfulness or subsequent even more to our theology. Couples regarding the nature of Christian adultery. Nor do we want to; there have been encouraged to develop mission. Often we would hear posi­ are too many people whose lives interests and life-styles independent tive comments regarding the sta­ such an account would affect. It of one another. Believing that these bility and strength of our marriage. serves no purpose to remind the diverse interests will strengthen the As our ministry evolved, I removed world of the details. However, it is lives of the participants, we have myself from the activities of the essential to point out that Satan, pursued separate lives caring little home. There were never expecta­ when seeking to destroy the spiri­ about mutual concerns or mission. tions placed on me, and when there tual goals and ambitions of man, al­ “The Lord is [our] shepherd” has were, I usually resisted them. The ways appeals to the sensual. He been replaced by the materialism of more I sought for institutional ap­ confronts humanity with power, sex, our culture. Our wants are insatia­ proval and gratification, the more I and money. The early church fathers ble. We are consistently being con­ noticed a growing distaste for Ei­ realized that these were great temp­ fronted with options that stimulate leen’s view and vision of the world. tations for man. For this reason they our appetites and titillate our sens­ From my perspective, Eileen was encouraged the early ascetics to es. The status quo is never adequate. not keeping up with my goals. From embrace poverty, chastity, and obe­ It was in the face of these realities her perspective, I was simply losing dience. These things sound ex­ that we confronted the greatest touch with the realities of family life. treme, but we have come to under­ struggle of our lives. We sought to We seldom if ever discussed this stand their significance in devel­ build a Christian marriage founded emerging separation. Our marriage oping holiness. We Christians have on ministry and full-time service. The was never characterized by fighting succeeded in flirting with these busier we were in the church, the or overt hostility. The disease im­ three elements and, for the most greater our personal and profes­ pacting our marriage was like a hid­ part, have found ourselves being sional success. The church and its den cancer; destroying that which overwhelmed by one or all three. I related institutions became our was essential from the inside, leav­ perceived that I wanted more of shepherd. We responded to its chal­ ing the outside to communicate a these three than God or the world lenges and problems and worked grotesque and brutal lie. was providing. I found myself be­ diligently to secure our position Complicating our situation was coming attracted to a young wom­ within its hierarchy. Throughout our the fact that we were living with Ei­ an, eight years my junior. I believed marriage we witnessed one success leen’s parents in a home we jointly the relationship would nurture my after another and believed that we owned. While they never interfered spiritual growth and satisfy my were destined to positions of impor­ directly with our lives, it was easy for emerging ego. The choices I made tance— and even greatness— with­ me to assume that they would be over the next year and a half would in and without our denomination. her security while I was out saving destroy the foundation of our spiri­ The still waters of God’s peace and the world. We never worried about tual lives. The choices would under­ the path of righteousness promised Eileen’s need for companionship as mine Eileen’s physical and spiritual by the Psalmist were laced with the long as her parents were present. confidence and threaten the survival glory and benefits of this world. The Furthermore, her parents helped to of everyone involved. “merit badges” of worldly and insti­ eliminate any guilt I might feel be­ Deception tutional success became symbols of cause I was away from our daugh­ To hide the truth from Eileen, I be­ God’s faithfulness. These assump­ ter, Jamie. She was extremely im­ came a master of deception; and tions were exactly what Satan in­ portant to them. when she confronted me with the tended for our lives. Regardless of how good and truth, I would threaten her with di­ Distance helpful Eileen’s parents were in vorce and exposure. I lost all sense We often mistake the voices of those difficult days, it was clearly a of right and wrong. The greatest de­ the world and even of the church for mistake to have entered into that ception of this period of my life was the voice of God. The more praise kind of relationship. It was unfair to that I believed I could have it both we received for our efforts, the more all involved. Communication de­ ways. I assumed I could maintain my convinced we were that we were liv­ creased noticeably, and the ability to marriage, develop an extramarital ing and working in the center of share and speak spontaneously affair, and of course maintain my rise God’s will. It was in that context that was thwarted. Discussions and to position and success within the we were to be most vulnerable. All times of communication had to be church. In retrospect, the naivete and absurdity of such an assump­ Decisions was Eileen’s father who the follow­ tion is almost overwhelming. For the first time in months, I be­ ing May confronted me with the The choice of this relationship led gan to sense the faithful love of the need to make a final decision as to to the birth of a child out of wedlock, Father. He was not going to aban­ whether or not Eileen and I would a separation of nearly a year and a don me to Satan or the power of sin continue to make attempts at recon­ half from Eileen, and a sojourn of 10 and death. I discovered God was ciliation. months in Seattle, the home of my pursuing me like the Hound of Heav­ We cannot say enough about the parents. In that year, I threatened en. Yet I also realized that to be obe­ grace and love demonstrated by our suicide and came very close to a dient to His will would require diffi­ parents during this difficult period of complete nervous breakdown. cult and painful decisions. These our lives. Neither set of parents gave Through the help of a counselor Ei­ decisions would have devastating up on us. They never shut the door leen was preparing herself for a di­ consequences for several individu­ on us. We knew throughout the or­ vorce, believing it was inevitable. For als. I was now living with this young deal that their love was uncondition­ reasons I cannot explain, I never ac­ woman in Seattle and providing im­ al and supportive. We decided to cepted that inevitability. In the year portant care for the child that was move to Garden City, Kans., where we were separated we talked al­ born out of that relationship. I cared we would attempt to rebuild our most daily. The excuse was concern for them greatly and despaired over family. Our daughter Jamie was now for our daughter. Eileen never called what I had done to them and what I five years old, and Eileen’s teaching me; I always called her. was about to do to them. In August position in Boston was tenuous due It was during these works that I 1981 I informed her that I was going to cutbacks in public funding. It was came to grips with the spiritual claim to return to Boston and Eileen. God a bold and adventurous scheme we God still exercized in my life. had prepared her for the news; she planned, but God was faithful and Through the assistance of a crisis seemed to understand my decision. led us at every point. counselor, I began writing and re­ The next three months were the flecting on the meaning of my life in most difficult months of my life. In We arrived in Garden City in Au­ this predicament. The picture was the period before I left Seattle, Satan gust 1981, both preparing to teach not pretty, nor was it hopeful. I came placed before me one obstacle after public school. For the next five to realize that Satan had deceived another. Each decision seemed to years, He reconciled, restored, and me, convincing me that he did not have painful consequences for anointed us with the oil of His pres­ exist, and that therefore the con­ someone. The longer I delayed my ence. We grew in the presence of sequences of immoral choices were departure, the more torment Eileen the Lord. The Church of the Naza­ not to be feared. Satan proved to be experienced; and furthermore, I fos­ rene in Garden City accepted us an adversary far greater than I imag­ tered a false hope for my Seattle with full knowledge of our past and ined. Several friends, specifically family. I covenanted with God that I eventually asked me if I would serve Ron Sider and Ray and Vera Hance, would leave by November 14, and as part-time associate. They never sought to reestablish communica­ that I would not share my timetable doubted the completeness of God’s tion with me. The Hances had intro­ with anyone. I was tired of disap­ work in our lives. As one wheat duced me to Jesus Christ when I pointing everyone at my failure to farmer shared with me, “Son, there was a teenager of 15. Sider had be­ leave. has been hail in your life; it is time come a close friend through Evan­ These were days when I sensed I you replant and prepare for the next gelicals for Social Action. Ron per­ was walking through the Valley of harvest.” Those words would serve suaded me of the importance of the Death. Yet, with each passing day, to strengthen us on more than one marriage relationship, and of how the restoring and healing grace of occasion. God has given us one op­ Satan was the master of intrigue God was reshaping and molding my portunity after another to minister to and destruction when it came to un­ life. I felt a sense of direction and other couples wounded and broken dermining the family. The Hances purpose. by the pain of this world. prayed, encouraged me to read the The words of the Psalmist, “I shall Restoration Psalms, and in one inspired moment fear no evil,” became a reality. Jesus The Shepherd leads beside still sent me a copy of the Wesley hymn was Victor; death and the power of waters and He restores my soul. We “Arise, My Soul, Arise.” Verses 1 and sin no longer ruled my life. With that discovered afresh the power of res­ 5 declared what I needed and was assurance, on November 14, I toration. Out of our predicament, the essence of what I had been packed my car, bid farewell to all in God built two individuals more de­ seeking. “Arise, my soul, arise. / Seattle, and headed to Garden City, termined and committed to be serv­ Shake off thy guilty fears. / The Kans., the home of the Hances. For ing Him and His kingdom. Through bleeding Sacrifice / In my behalf ap­ the next three weeks, they nurtured this ordeal, I discovered the grace of pears. / Before the throne my Surety me spiritually, never advising, only God. His forgiveness is unlimited, stands, / My name is written on His listening and pointing me toward and His cleansing is complete. Ei­ hands. . . . My God is reconciled; / Christ. In December, I left for Boston leen had demonstrated those real­ His pard’ning voice I hear. / He owns and my reconciliation with my family. ities in her love, patience, and for­ me for His child; / I can no longer It was not easy, and the path was giveness. She never quit, and her fear. / With confidence I now draw very difficult. There were to be love proved to be enduring and ever­ nigh, / And, ‘Father, Abba, Father,’ strong verbal confrontations be­ lasting. Her actions pointed me to a cry.” tween us and Eileen’s family. Yet it God of never-ending love. Eileen’s love is perhaps the greatest miracle of the whole experience. The enemy still confronts and would occasionally seek to under­ mine our relationship by causing guilt and remorse to dominate our mood. We cannot undo our choices, or refashion the consequences of PROPHET UNAWARES our choices. There is no perfect solution to the outcome of our deci­ by Elizabeth A. Cutting sions. Hurt and pain were caused, Tucson, Ariz. and there is no undoing that hurt or pain. I cannot whitewash the devas­ So the chief priests and the we see, for example, in Num. 27:21. tation I caused my family, the family Pharisees gathered the council, We read the words, “by the judg­ of this young woman, or those who and said, “What are we to do? For ment of Urim” (RSV). The context had placed trust and confidence in this man performs many signs. If tells us that Joshua is to be commis­ me. We are children of grace; we we let him go on thus, every one sioned by Moses, in the presence of rest in the promise that He has re­ will believe in him, and the Ro­ Eleazar the priest, “who shall inquire stored our souls and He leads us in mans will come and destroy both for him by the judgment of the Urim.” the paths of righteousness for His our holy place and our nation.” There is some question as to what name’s sake. We do not deserve the But one of them, Caiaphas, who the Urim and Thummim are exactly, goodness and mercy He promises in was high priest that year, said to but there is no question that this the 23rd psalm. We do not deserve them, “You know nothing at all; was a method for receiving an an­ the right to dwell in the house of the you do not understand that it is swer from God. Only the high priest Lord forever; but we are His chil­ expedient for you that one man had the right and the ability to use dren, and He does not abandon us should die for the people, and that this method of divination after “in­ in our stupidity and sin. the whole nation should not per­ quiring of God.” Therefore, to the His restoration is accomplished by ish.” He did not say this of his own Jewish people, the high priest was an everlasting love and faithfulness accord, but being high priest that God’s spokesman; he prophesied unmatched by this world. Modern year he prophesied that Jesus for God. marriages, faced with similar diffi­ should die for the nation, and not During the years a .d . 18-36 Caia­ culties or challenges, dispose of that for the nation only, but to gather phas held the office of high priest. which is uncomfortable or damaged. into one the children of God who So he was the high priest in the year Restoration takes that which was are scattered abroad (John 11:47- of Jesus’ death. He was God’s original with God and places it once 52, RSV). prophet for that particular time. John again into His service. The love that says that Caiaphas did not speak aiaphas a prophet? Despicable, “of his own accord, but being high brings two individuals together is a detestable, selfish, tunnel- love that God can mold, shape, and C priest that year” (John 11:51, RSV). visioned, narrow-minded Caiaphas?John makes the point very clear that destine for happiness and joy. We How could he possibly be a prophet give up too quickly. The joy of our Caiaphas was high priest th a t year, of God? From our vantage point in the year of Jesus’ death. As such he relationship with God is that by His history he seems a most unlikely very nature He refuses to give up. was God’s prophetic voice, telling of candidate. Because he hated Jesus His plan of salvation for the world. The 23rd psalm declares that in the so much, we see him as enemy of shadows of death, the futility of life, If Caiaphas was the prophesier of God. The words he spoke were poi­ God’s good news, why then did he He takes us to still waters and sonous, clearly meant to convince causes us to lie down in green pas­ not know it? What was it that led his colleagues that Jesus must be Caiaphas to such hatred for Jesus tures. Our choices devastated our put to death. However, Caiaphas lives and the lives of others, but from that only His death would suffice? was, in reality, th e one to be God’s The hierarchy of Judaism at the the rubble of the devastation He has messenger of good news for all peo­ time of Jesus was very conscious of lifted us up to soar with wings of ple in that time. the need to maintain the current po­ grace. We are restored! $ How could this be? litical atmosphere in Judea in order The primary job of the high priest, to keep the Roman occupiers hap­ Reprinted with permission. according to the laws set down in Leviticus, was to determine the will py. If anything happened to destroy of God for the people, and then to this delicate balance; if the Romans tell them God’s message. This was had any reason to believe that the done by “inquiring of God” and us­ Jews were going to become difficult ing the “Urim and Thummim” to de­ and, perhaps, even rebellious, the termine the answer, to learn God’s iron hand would be closed around will concerning the matter in ques­ them and they would lose all privi­ tion. leges. For the hierarchy, these privi­ The high priests, beginning with leges were considerable, including Aaron, were faithful to this law, as wealth and a degree of power. For the rest of the population, their save all the peoples of the world greatest loss would be religious free­ from eventual damnation. Jesus’ dom. death was necessary if God’s chil­ For a long time the Council of the dren were to live. Whole nations Jews had been standing by help­ should live because one man died. lessly as Jesus won the people to “You meant [it for] evil. . . ; but God himself with His strange ways and meant it for good” (Gen. 50:20, teachings. They could not under­ RSV), comes to mind, from the well- stand a man who believed love and known story of Joseph and his forgiveness were more important brothers during their reunion in Egypt. God’s plan of universal salva­ than laws. They could not compre­ tion was prophesied by a man inter­ hend His ways. He dined with sin­ ested only in self-preservation. ners; He associated with outcasts; John says, “He was prophesying He healed illnesses and mended that Jesus was going to die for the broken and deformed bodies; He Jewish people, and not only for even raised the dead. It was this them, but also to bring together into last, the raising of a man who had GLIMPSES been dead four days and already in one body all the scattered people of God” (John 11:51-52, TEV). John his tomb, that was the breaking emphasized the fact of that year be­ point for these keepers of the deli­ The other day our paths crossed. cause he “thinks it is remarkable cate balance of uneasy concord be­ It wasn’t intentional; tween Rome and Judea. This is the that the high priest, whose duty it was to enter the holy of holies and we hadn’t planned it event that precedes Caiaphas’ per­ or even talked about it. fidious words in our scripture pas­ offer atonement for th a t year, should unconsciously utter a prophecy of sage. If a man could raise the dead the Atonement which was presently But while I was putting gas in my car to life, the people would want him to be offered on the Cross.”* for their king. The status quo would I saw her drive by God sent His Son to the world to be destroyed if Jesus were allowed (exceeding the speed limit, I’m sure). redeem it— all of it. By the death of to continue. It was inevitable. The We caught each other’s glance, this one man, Jesus, the world nation’s peril was clear; its downfall then a brief wave, would know salvation. Paul says, imminent. This must, by all and any and it was over. “While we were yet sinners, Christ means, be avoided. died for us” (Rom. 5:8, KJV). Caiaphas’ concern, then, was It is interesting to note that Jesus’ The routine of going here and selfish— his comfortable life, made death did not save the Jewish na­ there— possible by complicity with the Ro­ tion. In the end, in a .d . 70, destruc­ running an errand, mans, his religion, his nation. He tion came with the fall of Jerusalem. going to see someone, was angry and desperate. He hated This was the death of the nation in mailing a letter— Jesus because He was upsetting spite of the death of the man. But had driven us in different directions. the equilibrium of uneasy peaceful Jesus’ death and resurrection has coexistence. Out of this framework brought life to millions of Jews and Now as twilight etches its colors he made a statement that, in reality, Greeks, publicans and sinners, was a death sentence. For him, this around the world and through the on the clouds, I’m remembering was an absolute necessity. He be­ ages. All who have said, “Yes, You that smile and brief wave. lieved firmly that it was possible for a died for me,” have received the And I’m glad that in all the whole nation to be saved by the promise of life eternal. business of pastoring, death of the man posing the danger. One final thought. It is sad to think she’s the pastor’s wife. So Caiaphas spoke his infamous that a vessel of God had allowed words condemning Jesus to death: himself to become so tainted by the — D a vid W. W altner “Don’t you realize that it is better for evils of narrow-mindedness, self- you to have one man die for the peo­ centeredness, and traditional re­ ple, instead of having the whole na­ ligion that he could not be open to tion destroyed?” (John 11:50, TEV). the new revelation of God through Caiaphas didn’t know the role he Jesus. God’s most important mes­ was playing in the matter of this sage to His children had to come prophecy because he was speaking through a blemished mouthpiece ut­ out of expediency. However, be­ tered in vile contempt. However, cause he was God’s prophet, by law though the vessel was impure, the and tradition, God gave his words message was pure and clearly a message of love. We can be thank­ greater significance. In a much deep­ ful that while we were yet sinners er sense, this man m u st be sacri­ Jesus was willing to die for us. f ficed for the nation. God meant to save the nation, yes, but not only NOTE that one Jewish nation. He meant to 'The International Critical Commentary 2:404. PETER REMEMBERS— Thirty Years Later John 13:31-38; 18:15-27 by James W. Thompson Portland, Mich.

T h e s e t t in g f o r t h is e v e n t is Ridiculous! I am Peter, the Rock! I firmed I would never do! Then Jesus 30 YEARS AFTER THE CRUCIFIXION bravely cut off an ear of one of the looked at me— that struck me hard. o f J e s u s . It is o n c e a g a in G o o d men that tried to arrest Jesus. Actu­ He did not have a look of anger but F r id a y . P e t e r r e m e m b e r s t h a t ally, I aimed for his neck, but he rather a look of pain. I think His pain f a t e f u l d a y w h e n h e d e n ie d k n o w ­ ducked. Jesus picked up the ear, put was not only feeling the personal in g J e s u s . H is p o w e r f u l e m o ­ it back on the wounded man, and betrayal but also feeling pain in my t io n s o s c il l a t e f r o m d e e p r e ­ healed him. You would have thought behalf. You cannot imagine how bad g r e t TO in c r e d ib l e d is b e l ie f at h is forgiveness t o d e e p l o v e f o r His act of love would have changed I felt! h is R is e n L o r d . T h e s e m a y h a v e their minds. But, no, they were de­ I wonder what would have hap­ b e e n P e t e r ’s remembrances : termined to arrest Jesus. Perhaps pened if I had been courageous Jesus should have let me keep enough to stand up for Jesus? ere it is 30 years later. I cannot swinging my sword! Maybe it all would have been differ­ believe to this day that I denied Then arrested, Jesus was taken ent. The fact is— I denied Jesus. HJesus. I know what you are thinking.away to the courtyard of Annas, the There is a bright note, however. But you don’t understand. I really did father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high Jesus was crucified and buried. On love Jesus. I really would have died priest. During this trying time cir­ the third day, He arose from the for Him— I thought. cumstances exposed me as the per­ dead. Can you imagine our shock? You would have to be there to un­ son I was— a coward. Young John Jesus had told us of His resurrec­ derstand what I felt. We were cele­ knew the high priest, so he was al­ tion, but it all sounded so strange to brating the Passover meal. Jesus lowed to go in with Jesus. I stood us. My excitement was affected by had said some strange things— outside in the courtyard. It was cold. the guilt of denying Jesus. I felt no things about being crucified and that Guards and servants waited around better than Judas! Would Jesus one of us would betray Him. We did a fire, trying to stay warm. I joined have anything to do with me again? not understand. We thought our them. Knowing that I was outside, After Jesus had arisen from the Messiah was going to restore Israel. John asked if I could come in too. As dead we saw Him again. But I had How could His death bring about he came out to get me, he passed a difficulty feeling comfortable in restoration? What a difficult predica­ girl attending the gateway. She Jesus’ presence. I returned to fish­ ment! asked, “Surely you are not another ing; after all, what good could this The betrayal idea bothered us of this Man’s disciples?” But you old fisherman be to Jesus now? As most. How could any one of us who had to hear the sound in her voice. my luck would go, I caught nothing. had followed Jesus and had seen She was vindictive. We fished all night and were begin­ His miracles possibly betray Him? Before I knew it, the words were ning to bring in our nets to call it Little did we know that our beloved out of my mouth: “I am not.” quits. A man standing on shore told friend, Judas, had already been mak­ Jesus was taken to Caiaphas for us to throw out our nets on the right ing plans— all for a few pieces of sil­ more questioning. I stepped outside. side of our boat. We had fished all ver! It is still beyond comprehension! Once again I stood next to the fire. night with no success. But there’s Naturally, I thought that Jesus Then one of the men accused me of no harm trying again. We caught needed assurance that nothing being one of Jesus’ disciples. Like a 153 fish— big ones too! Honest! I could possibly happen to Him. We flash, I denied it. One of the men in jumped into the water and swam to would protect Him, even if it meant the mob that had arrested Jesus shore, leaving my partners to tend our own deaths. After all, He was was a relative of the servant who al­ the fish. There stood Jesus— and the Messiah, and He was worth it. most lost his head. The fellow rec­ He even had a hot breakfast waiting! You might understand my shock ognized me. Again, I denied the While we ate breakfast, I didn’t when Jesus announced that I would whole thing— eager for them to be­ say a word. It was one of the few deny Him three times before the lieve me! At that moment the rooster times that words failed me. What night had ended. Think of it! Jesus crowed. Suddenly, I remembered could I say? How could Jesus ever thought that I, P eter, would deny Jesus’ words— and I was crushed. I believe in me again? Finally, in a Him! had done the very thing I had af­ (Continued pn page 32)

9 BACK TO THE BEGINNING Reflections on the AIDS Conference by Carol Wight-Gritton

ircled around the walls of the sion work . . . and the spreading ladies at the Nazarene University. meeting room at Camp laco­ of the doctrine and experience of Mrs. Baldwin from Kentucky, the Cnic in New York, the birthplace state Christian Holiness ... with the founder and teacher of the Bible of Phineas F. Bresee, founder of the purpose of preaching holiness, College and also a writer. Mrs. Church of the Nazarene, I stood as and carrying the gospel to the Knott, pastor of the Mateo Street part of a small but intense band of [downcast].2 Mission. And, of course, Colonel Duncan, a prominent business people. The reason for the circle of The informal introductions began man with influence in political cir­ people was a weekend conference at one point in the circle, and the mi­ cles.4 titled “AIDS: The Challenge for crophone was passed from one con­ The “multitude” gathered at the Compassion.” Though we stood as ference participant to another. All AIDS Conference was as varied as representatives of the voice of the had come to the conference in re­ the earliest Nazarene uniting, and its Church today, the united circle sponse to a published invitation to points of reference represented al­ formed a reflection of past days compassion. Clearly this represen­ most as many states. Sounding like when a similar group of people tative group, though differentiated a political convention’s roll call, the called the Pentecostal Church of the by varied positions and states of ori­ responses to the invitation to come, Nazarene stood together in its or­ gin, was united, as was the Early came from all over— Virginia, Mis­ ganizational beginning. Church, by one purpose. This group souri, Indiana, Illinois, Oklahoma, Their Especial Work had a purpose: to focus on the cur­ Montana, Kansas, Georgia, New They went . . . the Nazarenes rent “neglected quarter” issue of Hampshire. A registered nurse from . . . as a feeble band to a new and AIDS. The goal: to determine how Ohio. A senator from Oklahoma. untried field of labor, taking as we as the Body of Christ could best There were health-care profession­ their especial work the neglected minister to the needs of AIDS vic­ als, social workers, sociologists and quarters of our city. . . . They feel tims and families. educators, college administrators, that the call is to go wherever lives One Mind— One Heart along with students from Nazarene are burdened with sin, and hearts campuses. It was the fire that burned crying out. . . . From the first day The list continued— Massachu­ within that gilded its boards with in that hall upon Main Street, a re­ setts; Washington, D.C.; New Jer­ glory, and made them shimmer vival fire has kept burning that has sey, Kentucky, Texas, Idaho, Ten­ and shine with the glistening light spread and broadened.1 nessee, Michigan, California, of heaven. When the multitude is Florida, Canada, North Carolina, Going out into new and untried gathered together and there are fields of labor is nothing new for Maryland, Colorado, Oregon, New hundreds of one mind and heart, York. There were those from the those of us called Nazarenes. How­ and the Holy Ghost descends in ever some as of late have expressed seminary as well as interested lay­ His plenitude and power, that persons. Some who attended were concern, wondering if the revival fire place is garnished with a beauty concerned relatives and friends of that had burned for the neglected and glory in comparison with AIDS victims. One was a victim him­ quarters was about to go out. But which all the adornings of Solo­ self. while standing among the people of mon’s temple would be barren­ One's Words this circled Nazarene conference I ness.3 found that the fire, though beginning It was this one, whose words There was Brother Howland, a to look dim from a distance, had in echoed as one rapidly dying, who New York paper manufacturer, fact “spread and broadened." might have reflected old Brother who had suffered from internal Howland’s spirit, dying from cancer Invitation with a Purpose cancer. Dr. Whistler, a physician himself. A practical challenge was is­ Dear Friends . . . you are invited from El Monte. C. E. McKee, the sued that we must accept on behalf to carry on Christian work, es­ leader of the Young People’s Soci­ of “the least of these” as the least pecially evangelistic and city mis- ety. Sister Ely, a matron of young that we can do:

10 AIDS: The Challenge for Compassion

We are messengers of Jesus by Carol Wight-Gritton Christ. And representatives of the Flint, Mich. Kingdom must reach out and say, “We love you.” It may mean hos­ A representative group of the are lying on the grounds and in the pice care, visiting someone, or Church of the Nazarene gathered at streets of our cities. If we are really holding their hand in a cold, empty Camp Taconic in New York, July 1 -4, light, we’ve got to reach out, and it hospital. But we m u s t reach out. 1988, for a conference on AIDS. will cost us something— a sacrifice Because Jesus has been there, They came together for the sake of of self. This reaching out includes all we have to go there too.5 others— to learn, to help, and to help of us, not just those committed to urban ministries. G oing O u t others help. “Be kind and compassionate to The needs are greater than us in­ . . . a peculiar yet unmistakable one another, forgiving each other, dividually and collectively. We need call of God, the Nazarenes, put­ God’s help and wisdom to know just as in Christ God forgave you. Be ting the old things behind them, what to do. We need self-under­ imitators of God, therefore, as dear­ standing in order to know how to re­ went out to follow in the footsteps ly loved children and live a life of of Him whose name they bear— spond in a compassionate, Christ- love, just as Christ loved us and like way. to bring comfort to the sorrowing, gave himself up for us as a fragrant help to the downcast, a message This is our great opportunity to offering and sacrifice to God. . . . become the leading edge. This con­ of help to the brokenhearted, and you were once darkness, but now ference is part of the church’s re­ to carry the gospel of peace to you are light in the Lord. Live as chil­ sponse. Among the churches, we lives unburdened with sin.6 dren of light” (Eph. 4:32— 5:2, 8). are among the first to hold a confer­ The introductions ended. I was in Children of Light ence to decide what to do. But this awe for this moment in time when I “The light illuminates, helping us is just a beginning. could stand as one, circled together and others to see,” stated Dr. Terrell We must learn to submit to one with the others, wondering if this Sanders, president of Nazarene another— to help, to educate, to give brief reflection of the past could be Theological Seminary, at the open­ our sisters and brothers the right to our hope for days to come. Maybe ing of the conference. hold opinions different from our AIDS, this issue that we have silently Kindness, compassion, and for­ own, and in e ve ryth in g to love each feared and held at arm’s distance, is giveness are needed; and these do other as brothers and sisters in the more than a challenge to an act of not flow out of the natural heart. To Lord. compassion. Maybe its broken­ be effective, we must accept people AIDS victims today are the throw­ heartedness could become a cata­ with AIDS where they are, for who away people of our society. Eliza­ lyst— sending us on a journey back they are, and as a valuable creation beth Cole, pioneer missionary nurse home. $ of God. to Swaziland, gave up her horse to But how do we accept, love, and answer a call to the lepers— the care without condoning unaccept­ throwaway people of Swaziland. Carol Wight-Gritton is a free-lance writer liv­ ing in Flint, Mich., representing the Associa­ able life-styles? The answer is love. When she returned from her assign­ tion of Nazarenes in Social Work. Love always hopes. Love keeps the ment to the United States for retire­ door open and arms unconditionally ment, it was declared that leprosy 1. Rev. E. A. Girvin, Phineas F. Bresee: A Prince in extended. It is the love of Christ. was no longer a major threat in Swa­ Israel (Kansas City: Pentecostal Nazarene Publish­ ziland. That happened because she ing House, 1916), 125. Take a look into the face of some­ 2. Ibid., 109. body’s son or daughter whose life gave her life for their sake. We must 3. Ibid. has been devastated by sin. They do nothing less. ^ 4. Ibid. 5. Keith Smith, Nazarene AIDS victim, spoken at AIDS Conference, July 1988. 6. Girvin, Prince in Israel.

11 CALLED FOR THIS TIME Presented by Richard F. Schubert at the AIDS Conference in New York, July 1988 Adapted, from speech presentation, by Carol Wight-Gritton

ive and a half years ago I first smart virus with the ability to mutate some small-town Americans that heard the word A.I.D.S., Ac­ and to avoid lethal disease-fighting they are exempt from the impact of Fquired Immune Deficiency Syn­agents. It is like a smart mouse in a the disease. That thought is now lu­ drome. What started then as a maze who recognizes barriers and dicrous. For home, where a majority trickle of information the size of a moves away from them en route to of the infected people ultimately go, man’s hand in the sky has become a its goal. could be the smallest town in the torrent of concern, apprehension, AIDS IS— Midwest. fear, panic, and pain. 1. The AIDS virus is spread by Every segment of every organiza­ What still is necessary— what we sexual contact with an infected tion of any size, every family or ex­ all need desperately— is some kind person, involving the exchange tended family will be affected in of Christian perspective. of one or all of three body flu­ some fashion or another by this dis­ In Jesus’ Perspective ids: semen, blood, and vaginal ease by 1993. This may be the most traumatic, secretions. The bottom line is this: every insti­ pervasive problem for civilization, 2. The AIDS virus is spread by tution, including the church, must short of nuclear weapons, since needles and syringes used to determine how it will manage the World War II. AIDS will change the shoot intravenous drugs. problem when it arrives on the nature of every aspect of the way 3. The AIDS virus can be trans­ doorstep— for it w ill arrive. mitted from an infected mother we live, as much as, if not more than, What Can We Do? the oil crisis in the mid-70s. to her infant during pregnancy. This is happening currently at a What can we do as a society and The essential question is how will as individuals to protect ourselves, we manage the crisis? rate of 1 in 68 infants born with AIDS in New York City. our loved ones, our community, and On one hand we must reduce the the fabric that holds society to­ spread of the disease through 4. The AIDS virus can be trans­ mitted through a contaminated gether? Education! change in behavior. Education must extend, not only On the other hand, we must not blood transfusion and blood products, although rarely. to the intellect but also to the emo­ yield to fear-mongers and antisocial, tions, the psyche, and the very soul. even anti-Christian, behavior. Who Is Vulnerable? The need for this protective educa­ We cannot manage by imprison­ Anyone who is exposed to the ex­ tion goes to several targets— self, ing, isolating, persecuting, or even change of one of the three bodily community crisis management, com­ excluding. The problem is simply too fluids— semen, blood, vaginal se­ passionate care, and national policy. large and overpowering. Even if we cretions— is vulnerable. The focus There will be splits, chasms be­ could manage by isolating and ex­ has been among the homosexual tween men and women of goodwill, cluding, we c o u ld n o t do so as and I.V. drug user communities. many times even by those with simi­ Christians. Though a low percentage, it is un­ lar value systems. As Christ reached out to the leper, fortunate that some innocent people We, the responsible evangelical so must we. have been exposed. These persons community, have an opportunity as What AIDS Is and Is Not were simply recipients of blood in re­ well as a unique responsibility to AIDS IS NOT spread through ca­ sponse to a life-threatening diffi­ step forward and be counted. We sual contact. For example, working, culty. should be clearly on the decisive swimming, hugging, sneezing, cough­ When AIDS Comes Home and prudent management of this is­ ing in the air. The life of an AIDS victim is not sue, yet compassionate. AIDS IS a deadly illness caused pleasant. Ultimately hundreds of The temptation is to do things that by a virus, a blood-born sexually thousands of people will be floating are o p p o s ite of prudent, compas­ transmitted disease. The AIDS virus in and out of intensive care institu­ sionate management: interferes with the body’s ability to tions, work sites, schools, and 1. The Ostrich Syndrome: “If I fight off infection, including life- homes, going back to their family for stick my head in the sand, the threatening infections. There is no some kind of refuge in which to die. problem will go away.” But, it known cure and no vaccine. It is a The perception still exists by simply is not going to go away

12 in the near or intermediate ily caught. It is not communicated by entific absolute guarantee of no term. We have only seen the tip casual contact. Victims can be possible risk. However, this same of the iceberg in numbers or hugged. Kids can go to school. risk factor is no different from going qualitative impact. Workers can work in offices and fac­ to and from church through some of 2. “They Made Their Own Bed; tories. We can’t catch AIDS by do­ our urban traffic patterns. But it is Let Them Lie in It.” This nating blood. And you do get AIDS often viewed differently. thought has mostly been di­ from sexual imprudence and I.V. There will be cases that arise that rected toward the homosexual drug use. don’t fit neatly and squarely into es­ and I.V. drug user communities. We can educate that a cure and tablished guidelines. So, we must But, it is not only these two vaccine for AIDS are both a long call each other to be Christlike in our communities becoming infec­ way off. reaching out and our caring. By the ted. The nature and extent of We can show films (like those pro­ compassion of our love, we can bisexual activity in this country duced by the Red Cross) with our make things different— even better insures that others, innocent own prelude and postlude, and pre­ — and the world will know us, that under any definition, will be in­ empt these communication vehicles we are Christians, by our love. by clearly and unequivocally stating, creasingly impacted. Called for a Time Such as This 3. “It Is Somebody Else’s Prob­ “Yes, condoms are mentioned, but People with AIDS, along with their not for you because you are differ­ lem.” Dr. Miler, director of the family members and friends, have a General World Health Organi­ ent.” claim on the church simply by virtue The world desperately needs our zation, says, “We stand na­ of their plight. Jesus did not merely kedly in front of a pandemic as light in respect to this phenomenon. greet sinners— the afflicted and the Concerning s a lt, we can be the mortal as any pandemic there poor— but also included them. He has ever been.” It is every­ salt preservative to help keep the lid engaged them in actions that dra­ on, to help keep the fabric of society body’s problem. matized His personal concern for from tearing apart, to keep the 4. “Let’s Not Be Leaders, but Fol­ them. Jesus searched for them and “worst case scenario” suggested by lowers” Syndrome. Let some­ welcomed both table fellowship and the new Hudson Institute from hap­ one else call the shots. But if physical touch. the church is overshadowed by pening. To remain open to the stranger other leadership, the debate with AIDS, and to love him, requires will be conducted in the lan­ a special message of courage and guage of condoms, not absti­ hope, which when left to our own nence. We will have no one to We cannot manage resources we will have difficulty blame but ourselves. the AIDS crisis by im­ achieving. In the face of societal prejudice The Christian community will not prisoning, isolating, and hysteria, the willingness to have an easy time with this problem persecuting, or even reach out and touch the life of a It has never been easy to separate excluding. man, woman, or child with AIDS is the sin from the sinner, particularly in possible only by grace-endowed the areas of drugs and sex. There people, empowered by the Holy are tendencies to treat the areas of Spirit who promises to counsel and homosexuality and I.V. drug users as We, the church, can help people strengthen. we do other “out of culture” activ­ manage the crisis wherever and For such a grace-endowed peo­ ities. We shy away, to draw a cocoon however it emerges in every com­ ple, there must be no disparity be­ of protection around each of us and munity. Someone has to lead the tween words and deeds. The church our families. But realistically that way. No one is in a better position to is confronted with an opportunity to simply is not Christian. Jesus Christ do it than the church. make credible the New Testament did not exclude the prostitute and The church can separate the sin image of God's people as a reconcil­ the leper; He embraced them— from the sinner. And as Christ did, ing and redeeming community. If we figuratively and literally. we can reach out in a redemptive, fail in this endeavor, it will be a fail­ Called One Step Higher caring way. That’s what we are to ure, not only of nerve but also of Matthew 5 and 13 suggest that be. love. This may, indeed, be the singu­ we are salt and light, leaven or yeast. Concerning leaven or yeast, we lar opportunity of our lives to show Concerning lig h t, we can be the are special stewards of this unique the positive nature of Jesus Christ. information conduits that bring the substance called yeast. It is indeed a History is in the making. We can light of facts to the broadest possi­ magic powder, a catalyst that help make it the right way. Queen ble audience in order to dispel the changes things and makes them Esther went back and forth for a darkness of ignorance. We can, at better. We can do this by reaching moment when she learned of the the least, help the world at the end out and embracing hurting people, tragedy about to befall her people. It of our fingertips to sort out facts and taking the miniscule risk that is in­ was Uncle Mordecai who finally got myths about what is really happen­ volved. to her and said, “Who knoweth ing. There simply is no evidence of whether thou art come to the king­ We can enlighten ourselves and disease spreading through casual dom for such a time as this?” (Es­ others that AIDS, indeed, is not eas­ contact, but there is also no sci­ ther 4:14, KJV). $ THE ANSWER TO AIDS:

Red Cross Presented by Tom Nees Involvement at the AIDS Conference in New York, July 1988 with Adapted, from speech presentation, by Carol Wight-Grittor ome days I try to walk by him. If general acceptance that underlying AIDS his head is down I can walk by the physical problem is a moral and Swithout saying, “Good morning,spiritual issue. In some way, as in no The American Red Cross first George.” Most days he’s there. He is other issue we can identify, the prac­ became involved with AIDS in De­ a reminder to me of my powerless­ tice of medicine and religious belief cember 1982 when three senior ness— the total lack of any insight converge. At this moment in our his­ blood services personnel discov­ and ability on my part— to bring tory, the medical practitioners as ered that AIDS could be trans­ about any change at all with anyone, well as theologians are struggling mitted through blood. apart from the presence of the Spirit for direction. The first primary goal of the of God. Red Cross is to preserve safety What is the meaning of this con­ and adequacy of the blood sup­ A Parable of the City vergence, and what are we going to ply. This parable of the brokenness say to medical practitioners and The first simple screening test and desperation of the city is em­ people of faith? for AIDS in blood was developed bodied in a man who sits on the “If you want a prophetic parable in March 1985 by the American steps of Belmont Street Community about the future,” Dr. Reed Tuckson Red Cross. of Hope Church. George is a man said, “you must read Albert Camus’s A Public Education Program with whom we failed miserably. The Plague. It is the most accurate was started by the Red Cross to Years ago we tried to help him get description of what life will be like for dispel the rumor that “you can get his act together; then he disap­ us by the end of this century.” AIDS by donating blood.” peared. Once in a while he comes The American Red Cross’s back. Now, he lives on the streets. present involvement: But, in the midst of all this need, — 80 million brochures distrib­ we come to the Word in Philippians How do we uted — the Word about our Savior who — 1,200 chapters with full-time became obedient even unto death. experience AIDS coordinators At the Community of Hope, we ask that obedience — Four films produced and ourselves the question that I hope even unto death? available: our entire church will ask: “How do a. Beyond Fear we experience that obedience— b. A Letter from Brian obedience even unto death— so we * -4 c. Don’t Forget Sherry can understand the power of the d. Working Beyond Fear resurrection?” As in that novel, so in this country (AIDS in the Workplace) A Parable of the Future and around the world, AIDS will — Public service announce­ In my community, which is a high- eventually become the dominant ref­ ments risk neighborhood, AIDS does not erence point for every conversation The Red Cross is an organ­ create quite the consternation as and every activity, dominating all of ization committed to candid, elsewhere. There, life has a lw a ys our plans. straightforward public education been at risk. Life without AIDS in our The Plague— Then and Now in respect to safety and health, neighborhood is already threat­ The story of The P la g u e takes for 107 years. $ ening. Some of the people I deal place in the Algerian port city of Iran Richard F. Schubert, president of the with don’t even think they’ll live long where a ravaging epidemic of bu­ American Red Cross for six years, is a enough to die of AIDS anyway. bonic plague has thrown the city graduate of Eastern Nazarene College So, why are we here at a confer­ into harrowing agony. The city be­ where he is currently vice chairman of the board of trustees. ence on AIDS? Would we be here comes a prison of death and dis­ for a conference on cancer or heart ease to which every character re­ disease? And yet many more people acts in his own way. The focus is on will die with these illnesses in the Dr. Bernard Ruu and those who join year ahead than with AIDS. with him to alleviate suffering in the We are here because there’s a city. strictions on the freedom of travel The doctor sums it up for himself and exchange. and for us. “For the moment,” he First, the city is quarantined. All says, “I know this; there are sick who enter must stay. No one may people and they need curing.” At DBEDIENCE leave. that moment, with no help from the Second, those who develop church, the doctor went back to his symptoms are separated from the own basic, innate spirituality of a general population and eventually compassion that needs no explana­ even those who have lived with tion. them. Then there are frantic attempts to A Theology of Compassion? find cures— false hopes that the Even if our theology is not always plague will soon disappear. good there is something essentially Eventually, even public funerals good about who we are and what Dr. Ruu and the citizens of Iran are forbidden. The dead are quickly needs to be done. There is some­ find it difficult to admit, at first, that a buried and burned in mass graves. thing redeeming within us even tragedy is even taking place among In one way or another, everyone is when we don’t have the right an­ them. Everybody knows that pes­ affected and threatened by the swers. tilence has a way of recurring in the plague. In returning to The Plague, we find world, yet somehow we find it hard “The ecclesiastical authorities in the disease worsens. More and to believe in the ones that crash our town,” declares Camus, “re­ more children are stricken and the down on our heads from a blue sky. solved to do battle against the priest has to modify his theodicy— “There have been as many Plague with the weapons appropri­ his attempt to rationally explain what plagues as wars in history,” states ate to them. They organized a week God is doing. As he delivers his sec­ Camus, “yet always plagues and of prayer.” ond sermon, the plague is in the ad­ wars take people equally by sur­ Father Panalo delivers a sermon vanced stages. There are not so prise. In this respect,” he writes, “our during this week of prayer. The tem­ many at the church anymore; they townsfolk were like everyone else— ple is full of people anxious for some have given up that God is going to wrapped up in themselves. In other divine intervention, and the sermon intervene. Many have given up on words, they were humanists. They is judgmental, authoritarian, and faith altogether. disbelieved in pestilences.”* moralistic. The priest suggests that some A pestilence isn’t a thing made to “For a long while,” preaches the deeper meaning other than suf­ man’s measure; therefore, we tell well-meaning Father, “God gazed fering is the reason for this deadly ourselves pestilence is a mere bo­ plague. Perhaps somehow God is gey of the mind— a dream that will involved in the suffering. He sees pass away. But it doesn’t pass away, the suffering in the light of the Cross and from one bad dream to another Some of the people alongside those afflicted. The priest it is men who pass away. The hu­ suggests that this mystery must be manists pass away first because don’t think they’ll loved and accepted even when it they haven’t taken their precautions. live long enough to cannot be understood. “Our townsfolk were not more to The doctor disagrees that this blame than others,” says Camus, die of AIDS. theodicy will not work because “they forgot to be modest that was there is no way to explain what is all. And they thought that everything * i ...... — ..... going on. And how can he be ex­ still was possible for them which pected to love what he cannot un­ presupposed that pestilences were down on this town with eyes of com­ derstand? impossible. They went on doing passion but He grew weary of The priest develops symptoms of business, arranged for journeys and waiting. His eternal hope was too the plague. When he realizes it, at formed views. How should they long deferred and He now has first he keeps it a secret. Then an have given a thought to anything like turned his face away from us. And elderly, devout woman recognizes The Plague which rules out any fu­ so, with God’s light withdrawn, we the symptoms and offers him a ture, cancels journeys, and silences walk in darkness; in the thick dark­ place to stay. He does not want to the exchange of views. They fancied ness of the Plague.” call the doctor. And, because in his themselves free. And no one will The sermon triggers a series of moment of suffering his theodicy ever be free so long as there are discussions that the medical doctor cannot offer either answers or com­ pestilences.” cannot accept. So, he considers fort, he chooses to die alone in si­ Taking Action himself to be a nonbeliever. The lence. When they could no longer deny church had no theology for the doc­ Us and Them? the plague, the people of Iran began tor. It had nothing to say to those So much of what we have been to take a series of actions that were who were on the frontlines of medi­ saying in recent days has this increasingly difficult, if not unheard cal practice to help them under­ us/them mentality. We are trying to of, and yet all necessary. The actions stand, let alone sustain them develop a theology for “them.” “We were in a progressive series of re­ through, the crisis. don’t have AIDS,” we say; “they do.” We have fixed a great gulf. Some­ terious from our frame of reference. That is our theology— and it is not times, by the things we try to say But with AIDS we no longer are all- threatened by death. and do, we even widen the gulf. powerful. We no longer have all the We have grown up in a culture If I understand incarnational theol­ answers. We are finally driven back that denies death and aging. We are ogy, it was intended that there be no to an ultimate mystery at the center terrified by something that might in­ gulf. “Though He had equality with of life, into corners where there are tervene to cut short our lives. But, God, He did not grasp after that but no exits and no ways out. scriptures offer us a way to respond gave up those prerogatives and took Those of us who work among even to that ultimate threat. So, let our language not be condescend­ on the shape of human life— even to high-risk populations have had to give up our utopian visions. Much of ing. Let our language be adequate to the point of being obedient unto our motivation, the thing that has sustain those on the front line, those death— that He might totally identify driven us in the past, is that we can who are dying, and all of us who with us” (Phil. 2:8, paraphrase). come into a neighborhood with ac­ have no answers except The An­ tions that will bring about change. swer found in the person of Jesus. So, self-help, empowerment, help­ Love in Action ing people to stand and make it on As I have had to face this, people their own, arranging housing, finding who are suffering, and some who “I know this: there jobs— all of this with the utopian no­ have died, it has taken something of tion of changes that w e are going to are sick people and the sharp edge off my vision and bring about. Then we are hit with the made it a little less definable— some they need curing.” plague. days even a little less exciting. It is a What will we do when we are struggle to decide what it means to forced to give up our notion to be be prosperous in the midst of pover­ healers and saviors as we are left ty— prosperous with my whiteness. powerless to AIDS? What is there to I am aware of the gaps and, be­ That is the heart of our faith. sustain us in our powerlessness cause of them, I have to work There is no longer a gulf between when even for doctors it becomes against them. But, I am also aware “us” and “them.” Somehow in Christ more a task of diagnosing rather of a tendency to want to keep the we are all brought together. than to cure. gap there as when it comes to AIDS. I grew up with the gospel of afflu­ Only One Answer There are times I’m not sure that I ence, through the eyes of a very In The Plague, the devastation want to go out on the street know­ privileged community— the new disappears as mysteriously as it ing what I know. WASPs (White, Affluent, Separated, came. Cries of joy rise from the town and Protected). Now I have come as they resume their lives as they into a community of people who were before. have read the gospel very differ­ But the plague never really disap­ The new WASPs— ently. If I am to communicate the pears. White, Affluent, gospel in my neighborhood, I have At the end of World War II, Camus to see it through the eyes of poor could hardly have imagined that his Separated, people. prophetic parable would have come and Protected. How does the gospel read if you to pass to the degree that it has be­ are poor— or black with a history of fore the end of this century. racial injustice— or if you have In search for a theology that is ad­ If we are going to share the gos­ AIDS? We can’t see it from their per­ equate for this hour, we have to go pel, we cannot shout it from a dis­ spective unless we quit talking back to Philippians. What do we tance. In some way it must be about “us and them” as if we have have to say to each other and what shared, one on one, by people who something to take to “them.” does the Lord have to say to us are neither afraid nor condescend­ Giving up Utopia about the power of the resurrection ing, but who are willing to go to the As a result of reading The Plague, amidst our powerlessness? streets and neighborhoods and hos­ I see that my theology is as inade­ The theology of the New Testa­ pitals, to go to the high-risk areas in quate as the priest’s until I put my­ ment is the theology of the crucified the obedient example of Jesus even self in that place in advance. Christ who identified with us to the if it means obedience unto death, so If it does nothing else for us, the point of being “obedient unto death.” that with Him we may be exalted AIDS crisis will force us to a more When I think about the possibility and know the power of His resurrec­ reflective, mature, biblical theology. of the AIDS plague spreading, I of­ tion through us. $ The shallow theology of our times, ten ask myself: “What’s the worst the popular gospel of health, wealth, thing that could happen?” and happiness, will soon be dis­ The worst that could happen is Dr Tom Nees is the founder and director of carded as we search for a faith that that I might die. And what does that the Community of Hope Church of the Naza­ can sustain us when faced by our mean? I would in fact be following rene in Washington, D.C. powerlessness over the plague. the lead of my Lord and Savior 'Albert Camus, The Plague (New York: Alfred In our age of scientific rationalism, Jesus Christ, who “became obe­ A. Knopf, 1966). Translated from the French we have all but eliminated the mys­ dient unto death.” by Stuart Gilbert. A Reserve Chaplain — Right Place at the Right Time by David A. Tish THE MINISTRY U. S. Army Chaplain What does a pastor do as a re­ serve chaplain? Many people have OF asked that question more than once. He performs an invaluable service to his church, country, and God. PRESENCE Prior to coming on active duty as an army chaplain, I served two years by Chaplain Jack Nix in the Army Reserve in Salem, Oreg. Fort Riley, Kans. During these two wonderful years, I met people I would not have other­ wise known and received training that benefited other areas of my life. hile attending the Chaplain finalizing a divorce within hours. She But one special benefit was the min­ Officer Basic Course, the was apparently unable to cope with istry I was able to perform because I Wconcept of the “ministry of pres­mid-life physical changes and had was a chaplain. Let me tell you ence” was drilled into our class of turned on her family. SFC Jones ex­ about one such “ministry.” new chaplains. My understanding of pressed a deep love for her, even 2Lt. Robert Sapp was a student at this concept was beginning to de­ though she was involved in extra­ a local university and an ROTC ca­ velop during my first six months on marital affairs. He realized that she det. He attended services regularly, active duty. Serving as battalion was hurting herself as well as the and we talked together often. In his chaplain, conducting two memorial family, and he expressed a will­ visits he began to share with me his services, and providing chaplain ingness to accept her anyway. He spiritual journey. He had entered col­ coverage for ROTC Summer Camp was concerned about their 16-year- lege to “make money” but now was brought my attention to the impor­ old daughter who was watching her sensing God’s call to a life of full­ tance of the “ministry of presence.” mother do the very things that she time Christian service. But an experience as post duty had been taught were wrong. Their At first, college was only a place chaplain crystallized the concept. 8-year-old son was torn between to get a law degree in order to be­ come a Christian lawyer. As he grew As duty chaplain, I was responsi­ the two homes. He had been coun­ in Christ, he soon came to realize ble for all emergencies for one week seling with one of the family life that God had a special “call” for him. on a 24-hour basis. I dealt with an chaplains, but his wife had refused God was leading him to other areas. attempted suicide, a homicidal teen­ to go. As we shared, I pointed out the joys, ager, depressed wives, families SFC Jones was crying out for benefits, requirements of service to needing financial assistance, a help. As a chaplain, I represented a God in a full-time capacity. young lady suffering a mental break­ source of help. Unable to solve his Now, he is about to complete his down, two AWOLS, and the discov­ problems, I could only offer to listen college training. He plans to enroll in ery of a major cocaine ring, just to and to encourage him. I was able to seminary to prepare for full-time name a few of the incidents. (This is direct him to a source of help that Christian ministry. Talking to him the n o t a typical week in the army!) As reaches beyond all the resources of other day, he reaffirmed his call— a duty chaplain, it was my responsibil­ the army— our Savior, Jesus Christ. call to be a minister of the gospel, a ity to handle these situations and re­ It was my first, and possibly my servant of God. fer them to the appropriate resourc­ last, visit to that particular building. I Granted, God was already at work es. thank God for placing me in the right in Lt. Sapp’s life. Many people had On Monday morning, I was assist­ place at the right time. The “ministry sown the good seed in his life. God ing two reserve chaplains in process of presence” is an essential part of was stimulating growth. But one for their annual training. As I waited the chaplain’s real-life ministry. It is such seed planter was a chaplain in for them to complete paperwork, also a vital part of each and every the U.S. Army Reserve. One week­ Christian’s ministry— the “ministry end a month, the minister of a local SFC Jones* asked if he could talk of presence”— God reaching others church put on a second hat as an with me. We went to a nearby room through us! $ army chaplain. In so doing he be­ for privacy where, fighting back the came a tool for God to use in calling tears, SFC Jones began to unfold 'The name has been changed to protect con-, one soldier. f his story. His wife of 23 years was fidentiality.

17 THE DYNAMICS OF MINISTERIAL MORALITY

by Lyndon K. McDowell

y first experience of the moral raised the marking pen I had in my ing closely with women. The pastor frailty of men in the ministry hand and marked her face. should, therefore, be prepared to Mcame early. I had opted to spend aThat was mean, and as my son deal with sexual attraction. To be year interning before graduation. said when he first read these lines, forwarned is to be forearmed. The year was a profitable one. The “Dad, there are other ways of doing The problem of dealing with min­ evangelist, an indefatigable worker it!” But the situation was such that isterial morals is an age-old one. with a profound knowledge of Scrip­ possibly the pen saved me for the Pope Gregory ordained that if a ture, became both my mentor and ministry! I felt terribly guilty after­ priest committed a sin against purity model. He also had a daughter with ward. The flush of excitement that he should do penance for 10 years. a pretty face and figure. One day the had surged through me must have For the first three months he should minister left the two of us alone to sleep on the ground, remain in soli­ been lust. How could I ever go into work on some evangelistic adver­ tude, have no intercourse with any the ministry if I was that sort of guy? tising. We talked and teased and person, and should be deprived of I asked myself. Then, what I call the flirted, and presently I surrendered Communion. He should then fast ev­ to an impulsive urge to kiss the Adam and Eve syndrome came to ery day for a year and a half on young lady firmly and full on the lips. my rescue. It was, I told myself, the bread and water, and for the remain­ In retrospect I realize that I must evangelist’s fault for leaving us der of the 10 years he should con­ have been ignorant about women alone. Strange how persistent a syn­ tinue to fast on bread and water only and their sexuality. My lessons be­ drome is. It remains a strong strain on three days a week.2 gan that day. Readers must under­ in homosapiens even after some If I read history correctly, there stand, however, as I am sure they 6,000 years, especially in the area of must have been heavy demand for do, that there is a big difference be­ morals. bread and water in some centuries tween reality and the impression of I have since learned that a better of the church’s history, but at least reality. The passage of years also way to explain my behavior would the miscreants had a chance to re­ distorts the picture. I write about im­ have been to simply recognize that deem their ministry. Many denomi­ ages and impressions as they re­ when any two people of opposite nations today make no provision main with me after the passing of sex work closely together, sexual whatever for reinstating a minister nearly 40 years. I have stated this, feelings will almost inevitably be who has committed such a sin. for I mean no discourtesy to the lady aroused. While this rule is probably wise, involved, whose husband will proba­ When two people work very one’s heart bleeds for some. bly read this article and remind her closely together. . . as a minister There is a popular fallacy that ev­ of the incident. She will no doubt does with his parishioner, or a ery moral fall must be preceded by a protest that h e r set of memories is doctor with his patient, feelings of long flirtation with evil, or secret lust, quite different from mine. comradery and warmth almost in­ or that acute marital unhappiness is As I remember, therefore, the evitably arise between them .. . . the predisposing cause. These may young lady responded with excited When the two people are of op­ be possible causes, but I have come eyes and quickened breath and in posite sex and not too disparate to believe they are the exception turn came to kiss me. Two biologi­ in background, these warm feel­ rather than the rule. cally stirred youth alone in a shed is ings will almost always assume a No one is immune to the sins of a situation hardly compatible with sexual cast.1 the flesh. We all share in the com­ evangelism. Vaguely I knew I was in The very nature of the ministry is mon frailties that lie at the root of trouble, and as she drew near I such that men find themselves work­ transgression. It is how we handle these frailties that makes the differ­ Although carnal affection is visits began to satisfy mutual desire. ence. “When our inborn sexual re­ dangerous to all, it is yet more so Slowly the innocent farewell em­ sponses, and the interpersonal stim­ for those that associate with per­ braces became a little more lin­ uli evoking them, are consciously sons that seem to be spiritual; for, gering. and guiltlessly recognized, the total even though the beginning is One day when John arrived, Joan responses can much more easily be pure, yet frequently familiarity is was alone in the house and dressed kept within socially appropriate very dangerous; and the more the more for swimming and sunning than visiting. As John greeted her, bounds.”3 To be aware of them is to familiarity increases, the more the for perhaps two long seconds their enable us to handle them. first motive is weakened and thus purity is defiled. The devil knows eyes met and there was a “Joseph Causes of Immorality well how to conceal danger. In the and Potiphar’s wife” situation, ex­ Mid-life crisis is an important ele­ beginning he sends, not poisoned cept that John was not quite ready ment whose role in setting up a min­ darts, but only those that inflict to leave his cloak and run. When ister to be receptive to temptation slight wounds, and kindle an af­ Joan excused herself to “put on needs to be understood. Most men fection but in a short time the per­ something more modest” John was change as they approach middle sons begin to act toward each conscious of the fact that his mind age. These changes are part and other not like angels, as in the be­ followed her to the bedroom. parcel of normal development. Ed­ ginning, but like beings clothed The incident alerted John to his mund Hallberg calls this time of life with flesh. The looks are not im­ danger, and he did two things. He the “metapause” and states that it is modest, but they are frequent and deliberately planned a visit to the “so subtle and private that the vic­ reciprocal; their words appear to home when Jim was present, and tim, his family, fellow golfers, and oc­ be spiritual but are too affection­ during the visit he paid special atten­ casional girlfriends sometimes don’t ate. Each begins frequently to de­ tion to Jim. He also told a relative even recognize it. Loneliness is of­ sire the company of the other.7 about the physical attraction that ten with us.”4 was obviously mutual and that he Hallberg goes on to list a number was going to have to be careful. Ver­ of signals that give evidence of the balizing the situation spotlighted the metapause: There is growing dissat­ The pastor should be potential sinfulness of it and made it isfaction with our work. We no lon­ easier to deal with. Fortunately Joan ger come up with new ideas. We fall prepared to deal with realized the problem as well, and asleep in the easy chair. “We have sexual attraction. without having to deal with it openly longer hair, which no longer covers the two of them brought their rela­ the bald spot ... the weight con­ tionship under control. tinues to increase. This is all part of It was not always easy for John to ‘the gray itch.’ ”5 drive past country road 34. But With personality growth and Pastoral visitation and spiritual friendships were retained and minis­ change, restlessness and discon­ counseling frequently evoke deep terial standards were upheld. “ It tent sometimes become more and feelings. Pastors become emotion­ could easily have been different,” more intense. A process of self­ ally tied to those to whom they min­ John told me. “It showed me that, questioning that affects a man’s ister. Deep friendships are formed, given the right occasion and chem­ view, not only of himself but also of and it is not always easy to discern istry, it would be very easy indeed to those about him, takes place, and when spiritual boundaries end and transgress.” an increased sense of loneliness of­ sexual attraction begins. There is of­ Whenever a pastor becomes ten sparks sexual fantasies. A man’s ten a broad “no-man’s-land” that aware that pastoral visits are dic­ marriage and family are brought into separates the two. One pastor told tated more by his own emotional question, and life begins to take on a me of his experience. drives than pastoral duty, he must different meaning. If a minister is John ministered to two churches recognize that he is on a dangerous aware of what this period of life can some miles apart. On the highway road. Long, intimate telephone con­ do to men, it will not only enable him between the churches was country versations, mutual looks, and desire to minister more adequately to oth­ road 34, which led to a summer re­ for each other’s company are dan­ ers but also alert him to possible pit­ sort area. Jim, a busy executive, and ger signals. If there is added to this falls in his own life and ministry. his wife, Joan, slim and pretty and the real or imagined impression that Even a close spiritual relationship mother of two, spent the summer the parishioner is sexually available, can present dangers. Roman Catho­ there with their children.8 Pastor the danger is heightened and food is lic father Sertorius Caputa observ­ John had a close tie with the family. provided for fantasies that can in­ ed: “The devil endeavors first to in­ Bible studies had led to baptism and trude themselves into the mind even fuse a love for the virtue of the indi­ a warm friendship. John was single in sacred moments. Fantasies readi­ vidual, and thus inspire a security and lonely at the time, and it was a ly become more intrusive when that there is no danger; he then ex­ pleasure when traveling between his women are allowed to discuss their cites sentiments of affection for the two churches to turn down country sexual problems with the pastor. It is person, and afterward tempts to sin; road 34 and visit. At first he didn’t a safe rule that a minister should and thus he causes great havoc.”6 realize that Jim’s long working hours never permit this. Such intimacies St. Thomas says much the same: were getting to Joan. But soon the have a bewitching power. “The heart is corrupted through says, “Does this woman really think Sometimes the more comfortable the imagination. The mind takes she could tempt me? I’m going to try compartment was first-class, even pleasure in contemplating scenes her out a bit.” This is an open invita­ though I had a second-class ticket. which awaken the lower and baser tion to temptation, and pride goes In other words, the clergy, as “men passions.”9 I can still recall Ko- before a fall. If the pastor is abso­ of the cloth,” were respected. But dacolor images from a conversation lutely honest with himself, he will the collar did something more. with a woman who in speaking of recognize the first appearance of Whenever I saw myself reflected in a her marital problems gave a graphic physical attraction and deal with it mirror or window I was reminded of the fact that I was a “man of the description of her sexual difficulties. promptly. Such honesty takes the cloth” and as such I had a standard “The spiritual eyesight becomes grace of God and a recognition of of deportment to uphold. Whatever I blurred, and persons of hitherto un­ one’s frailty. St. Bernard wrote: “To did would reflect on the ministry. tainted morals become confused.”10 be familiar with a woman and to pre­ Whether or not we wear a clerical Too easily the silken cords of sin serve chastity require greater virtue collar, this is still true. Each one of us multiply until they are almost impos­ than to raise a dead man to life.”12 holds a measure of the reputation of sible to break. Paul’s warning that “our struggle is our fellow ministers in our hands. A Charles Rassieur recounts the not against flesh and blood” (Eph. high regard for our calling is a barrier confession of one pastor who had 6:12, NASB) is also very pertinent against sin. allowed those silken cords to bind here. We have an enemy to deal with. him: Related to this is the necessity of When I would decide to be a strong moral and theological con­ faithful pastor and cut this thing victions. We are bombarded with off, I would go for a week or 10 sensuality and permissiveness to­ days and not see her. I would feel We all share in day. To counteract the tide, we need very bad. Either I would call her up common frailties. It is to reaffirm our standards constantly. and say, I want to talk to you, or “Thou shalt not commit adultery” she would stop in the office and how we handle these (KJV) needs to be an ever-present say something that would tell frailties that makes admonition not only to our congre­ me— or I would be telling her— the difference. gations but also to our own souls. that we needed to relate. And this Finally, the very best defense is kept going on.11 flight. Run away. Francis of Assisi wrote: “I know what I ought to do, The Pastor’s Moral Defenses but I know not what I would do were What are the pastor's moral de­ Third, recognize the danger sig­ I to remain in the occasion of sin.”13 fenses? First of all, marital hap­ nals. Mutual looks. The desire to be Solomon spoke from experience piness and openness are a tremen­ in her company. Making excuses for when he wrote: “Remove your way dous source of strength. Fortunate unnecessary pastoral visits. The ex­ far from her, and do not go near the is the pastor who has a supportive change of intimate details of one’s door of her house, lest you give your and understanding wife. On the life. All should be red flag signals. honor to others, and your years to other hand, a critical and demanding Persistent fantasies about a parish­ the cruel one” (Prov. 5:8, NKJV). $ wife can drive a man to sin. I visited ioner should call clamorously at the one home and listened as the in­ conscience. If they begin to occupy Lyndon K. McDowell pastors the Olney, Md., jured wife bewailed the fact that not the mind, the best way to deal with Seventh-day Adventist Church and is editor only had her husband been unfaith­ them is to talk about them with your of the Ministry Tape of the Month. This article ful, but she could not understand wife or someone else whom you can is reprinted with permission. why he had fallen for such a “dumb, trust. Verbalizing them brings them low-class woman.” To me the an­ out of the realm of illusion into reality NOTES swer was obvious. His wife was a where they can be dealt with. Fanta­ 1. Nathaniel S. Lehrman, M.D., “The Normality of perfectionist. In subtle ways she had sies, like pornographic pictures, are Sexual Feelings in Pastoral Counseling,” Pastoral made her minister husband con­ painted in psychedelic colors that Psychology (June 1960), 49. 2. Quoted by Alphonsus de Liguori in Rev. E. stantly feel inadequate and unable have no substance. In the glare of Grimm, ed., Dignity and Duties of the Priest or, Seiva to measure up to her demands. reality they are revealed in all their (a collection of material for ecclesiastical retreats). 3. Lehrman, Normality of Sexual Feelings, 51. When he found someone who ac­ shabbiness and sin. 4. Edmund D. Hallberg, The Gray Itch: The Male cepted him as he was and treated Fourth, maintain a high standard Metapause Syndrome (New York: Stein and Day, him like a king, he naturally chose to of the ministry. At one time I worked 1978), 12. 5. Ibid., 5. be treated like a king. in a very British country and took to 6. de Liguori, Dignity and Duties, 255. Second, the minister must be ab­ wearing a clerical collar. The dress 7. Ibid. solutely honest with himself. Can­ was an open sesame for hospital 8. The names have been changed. 9. Elen White, The Adventist Home (Hagerstown, didly face up to the very beginning of visitation where visitation hours Md.: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1980), 408. an attraction. This is not always were more strictly regulated than in 10. Ibid., 330.1 have taken some liberties with the context of these two quotations, but both the word­ easy. Self-deception is a common North America. Occasionally, when ing and warning are pertinent. failing. We seldom like to call sin by trains were uncrowded, the kindly 11. Charles L. Rassieur, The Problem Clergymen its right name. We must also be conductor would say, “Come with Don't Talk About (Philadelphia: Westminister Press, 1976), 28. aware of the subconscious spirit of me, Reverend, I think I can find you a 12. de Liguori, Dignity and Duties, 253. pride and self-righteousness that more comfortable compartment." 13. Ibid., 250.

20 & " M n U

LISTENING TO GOD— AND YOUR HUSBAND by Jill Briscoe Pastor’s wife and free-lance writer Waukesha, Wis.

t’s Sunday morning. There you are home. Who d o e s have it all to­ Laugh at his jokes. A man sitting sitting in the pew doing nobody gether? As long as we are con­ next to me one Sunday said to me Iany harm when suddenly you are scious that we are not models of after the service, “I love to watch you aware that every eye in the church is goodness but only models of those laughing at your husband’s jokes. upon you. Your husband has just who are striving after it, we will be You obviously enjoy him very much.” used you as an illustration. If the il­ able to listen to our men preaching Let the congregation see you appre­ lustration isn’t particularly flattering, Christian maturity and forgive them ciating his message. Be attentive. you think, I wish he wouldn’t do that. if they are not perfect. Pray with your husband before he If it’s flattering, you wish your face All of us want our husbands to sets off to minister. Let him know wasn’t turning the same hue as the preach well, but we need to ask our­ how much you are with him. You are poinsettias. selves, “Does my constructive crit­ a team. Assure him you’ll be praying It’s not that I mind providing a bit icism help or hinder?” We should try through his talk. Then do it. Prayer of color to the sermon, but I find it’s to internalize the truth of a sermon opens the inner ear like nothing else difficult personally to get the point. before we analyze. I know. We have a long drive to our It’s all part of my struggle to listen Let me share some practical church, and we always pray for a pe­ without feeling I’ve been listening to things I have learned after listening riod of that journey. It sets our minds my husband rather than to God. to my husband preach for 30 years. and hearts in the Lord. It’s always great to stand near my Relax. Don’t be so intense you Thank him for being the means of husband at the end of the service pull faces if he gets his words mixed blessing in your life. I try to go to my up or makes an obvious mistake. I and hear someone thanking him for husband at the end of a service with the help they’ve received from his did this once and Stuart caught one thing from his talk to thank him talk, but how do I get blessed? sight of my face and wondered what for. This way if there is anything con­ on earth he had said. It put every­ Some pastors’ wives retreat to structively critical I would like to the back pew. Sitting at the front can thing right out of his head. share later, I have not discouraged mean people watch you. Another Listen for God’s voice. Remem­ him too much to think about it. reason it’s easier to sit in an incon­ ber the man in the pulpit is your hus­ Realize how privileged you are to spicuous pew is the familiarity fac­ band but he is also God’s gift to his be married to a preacher. Don’t let tor. I find I bring our relationship (Stu­ church. He’s there to teach the the pleasure of that privilege tarnish. art’s and mine) along with me to saints to do the work of the ministry church. If things are great between (see Eph. 4:12). That includes you God loves that man of yours so much He chose him to be His us, it’s easier to listen attentively and as well as the church people. So ex­ receptively to his sermon. If we’ve pect to hear a word from the Lord, spokesman. And He loved him so had words about my bad driving or not just a word from your husband much He chose just the right partner for him— one who could so learn to some other trivial thing on the way, a b o u t the Lord. listen to the Word preached that oth­ then it usually takes me till the third Take notes. Take a small note­ ers would be constrained to do the point of his message to tune in. book to church along with a pencil No one in the pastor’s family is and a Bible. This models respect same. perfect. We wives need to remem­ and interest. If the church sees you Happy listening! $ ber we mustn’t expect our hus­ think what your husband says is bands to forbear speaking out when worth writing down, they may listen Reprinted with permission from Sunday to Sunday, they don’t have it all together at a little more carefully themselves. Vol. 2, No. 2 (Spring 1989); Carol Stream, III. FREEDOM AND ITS MEANING IN MINISTRY by J. Kenneth Grider Professor of Theology Nazarene Theological Seminary Kansas City, Mo.

e Arminian-Wesleyans believe taught that we are so free that we The Second Council of Orange in human freedom, but our are able to refuse to sin, but that ev­ (a .d . 529) made an official decision teachingW has in it, or ought to have in ery person does sin because of in­ for the Catholic church of the en­ it, certain refinements of under­ fluences thereto from the vividly suing centuries, and it took a medi­ standing. conceived demons. ating position between Augustine In this article, I should like to sug­ The greatest theologian of all be­ and Pelagius. It taught that we lost gest something of the history of the fore Augustine, Origen, must also our freedom through the Fall, but doctrine of human freedom, includ­ be thought of as an exception of that it is restored to us when we are ing that ours is not a Pelagian teach­ sort. Origen seemed even to empha­ baptized. ing; that we can incorporate into our size human freedom. But he did not Antecedents of Arminianism, view Soren Kierkegaard’s under­ believe in it as Arminius did and which were often closer to his posi­ standing that freedom is possibility; Wesley later taught it. He did believe tion than the early Fathers were, ob­ that, along with our freedom, we are that we are so free that we can tained just a little before Arminius’ necessitated in numerous ways; and choose which road back to God we time. The erudite Erasmus was, of several things that the Arminian will take, and the length of time it will course, a freedomist, and wrote view of freedom should mean, as we take to get back to God, but that we supporting free will only to be op­ go about ministry. are not free to choose never to be posed by Luther in Luther’s The redeemed. He believed, indeed, that Bondage of the Will. Yet Erasmus Human Freedom Before Arminius even Satan will finally be redeemed. was a humanist, a freedomist Pela­ When James Arminius and John Yet most pre-Augustinian fathers gian, and, thus, was not the kind of Wesley, in their times, emphasized were freedomists of some sort. freedomist that Arminius was. Mel- their non-Pelagian view of human They did not, however, give apolo­ anchthon, so closely associated freedom, they both understood that gies for such a view, since it was not with Luther, might have gravitated they were teaching what was cus­ a controverted issue. Tertullian and toward human and conditional pre­ tomarily taught by the Greek and Cyprian and others, including Chry­ destination in his last years;1 but if Latin Fathers prior to the early-fifth- sostom, of the West, pretty much he did, his views would not at all century Augustine. H. Orton Wiley assume human freedom. Arnobius have resembled those of Arminius. felt the same way: that the pre- certainly suggests it, as the only an- Yet other pre-Arminians located Augustinians in general were “Ar- nihilationist of the pre-Augustinian close to what became the Arminian minians.” period. He taught that the annihi­ view. Much evidence justifies this un­ lation to be received by the wicked, Anabaptists, better known later derstanding, that the pre-Augustini- after they are resurrected and pun­ as Mennonites, taught the universal ans were freedomists, if the general ished according to the seriousness provision for redemption in Christ’s situation in those early centuries is of their sins, will be justly deserved atonement and that we humans cast being spoken of. Even Augustine due to each wicked person’s free the deciding vote on whether we will himself wrote on human freedom decision to lift puny fists against be damned or redeemed. much as Arminius did later, before God. At Zurich, also just before Ar­ what Daniel Steele (1824-1914) Human freedom was not an issue minius’ time, Bullinger at least ques­ called his “collision” with Pelagius. to such influential Eastern fathers as tioned for a time the denial of human There were exceptions to this “Ar- Irenaeus and Athanasius; but they freedom implied in Calvin’s uncon­ minianism” in the earliest centuries. seem to assume it. It is well known ditional predestination teaching; and Some Fathers did not teach the doc­ that Pelagius and Coelestius and Jerome Bolsec and Charles Perrot, trine of original sin in us due to others denied original sin resulting of Geneva, both opposed Calvin’s Adam’s fall. Justin Martyr seems not from Adam's “fall,” so the human view that precluded human free­ to have taught original sin as he freedom they believed in was of a dom. emphasized human freedom. He humanistic type. In Holland, after the alteration

22 (from Roman Catholicism to Protes­ so corrupt that we are all conceived things of the spirit of God’ (1 Corin­ tantism) and a few decades before and born in sin.” It implies that the thians 2:14).”8 Further, he writes: the Synod of Dort (1618-19), most disobedience of our first parents “Exactly correspondent to this dark­ ministers tended to be freedomists. and of ourselves is freely chosen be­ ness of the mind, and perverseness At the newly founded university at cause it states that disobedience of the heart, is the utter weakness of Leiden in Holland, most of the teach­ deserves punishment after asking, all the powers to perform that which ers were “Arminian” during the six “Will God suffer such disobedience is truly good, and to omit the per­ years when Arminius studied there and apostasy (implies falling from petration of that which is evil.”9 In (1575-81). grace) to go unpunished,” it an­ support, he gives Christ’s “Neither In England, William Barrett was swers, “By no means; but he is terri­ can a corrupt tree bring forth good denied his B.D. degree at Cam­ bly displeased with our inborn as fruit” (Matt. 7:18, KJV) and “How bridge in 1595 because he rejected well as actual sins, and will punish can ye, being evil, speak good the freedom-opposed views of them... ,”5 things?” (12:34, KJV). Among other Cambridge’s distinguished supra- The Belgic Confession is differ­ supports, he also mentions John lapsarian, Williams Perkins. At about ent, on the matter of free will. It does 6:44, “No man can come to me, ex­ the same time, Peter Baro was de­ indeed teach against it, although Ar­ cept the Father. . . draw him” (KJV). posed from his position at Cam­ minius did not interpret it in this way. After quoting John 8:36, that only bridge for his “Arminian” views.2 In Article XVI, on “Eternal Election,” those are free whom the Son hath it states: “We believe that” to “all the John Playfere, Baro’s successor, made free, he says, “It follows that posterity of Adam . . . God did then lectured and published on free will our will is not free from the first fall; manifest himself. . . as merciful and without special trouble, because by that is, it is not free to good, unless it just: merciful, since he delivers and then it was becoming increasingly be made free by the Son through his preserves from this perdition all acceptable in England. This, impor­ Spirit.”10 whom he in his eternal and un­ tantly because the Thirty-Nine Arti­ changeable council, of mere good­ John Wesley’s Teaching cles of 1563 (and 1571) of the ness hath elected in Christ Jesus on Free Will Church of England had not declared our Lord . . . ; just, in leaving others Between the time of Arminius and a view on the matter of human free­ in the fall and perdition wherein they that of Wesley, Arminianism gained dom— allowing, in the future, either have involved themselves.” This is much ground. The Quakers, al­ Calvinism or Arminianism in its ad­ quite evidently the view of modified though mystical and not doctrinal in herents.3 supralapsarianism, that each person their main interests, taught basically Arminius’ View of of Adam’s posterity is from God’s what Arminius had taught on free Human Freedom “eternal . . . council” unconditionally will. John Goodwin taught Arminian­ James Arminius taught and even predestinated one way or the other, ism in England in the middle of the emphasized human freedom. He although there is no positive deci­ 17th century, and directly influenced taught it in various treatises he sion of reprobation in the case of John Wesley in that direction.11 wrote during his 15-year pastorate those who are not “elected in Jesus Many English divines prior to the at Amsterdam (1588-1603), and in Christ.” time of John Wesley taught what his writing during the time when he On Arminius’ own teaching, hu­ might be called an aberrant Armini­ was a professor at the University of man freedom is a distinctive empha­ anism: Pelagian, Socinian, Arian, Leiden (1603-9). He was a pastor sis of this “quiet Dutchman” who universalist, and latitudinarian im­ and a professor of the Reformed permitted accusations of his Pe- purities were introduced into their Church, and he felt, somewhat in­ lagianism to circulate two years at views. This is why John Wesley correctly, that his views on free will one time before responding to them wrote, “To say, This man is an Ar­ were not discordant with the two of­ in his “Apology Against Thirty-One minian,’ has the same effect on ficial confessions of faith for the Re­ Defamatory Articles.”6 He was not many hearers as to say, This is a formed Church of the time: the Bel- Pelagian, for he believed profoundly mad dog.’ it puts them into a fright at gic Confession (1561) and the Hei­ in original sin. He believed, there­ once. . . .” 12 Yet when Wesley delberg Catechism (1563). fore, that we are fallen and that we started a periodical in 1778, perhaps He was probably correct, as re­ thus cannot exercise our capacity of the first religious magazine, he was lates to the Heidelberg Catechism. free will in choosing righteousness brave enough to call it The Arminian This question-and-answer confes­ unaided by prevenient grace. He M agazine. sion asks, “Did God create man thus said, “In this state (of original sin), On free will John Wesley wrote, wicked and perverse?” and it an­ the free-will of man towards the true “Indeed, if man were not free he swers “No,”4 implying the view that good is not only wounded, maimed could not be accountable either for Adam was free in his sin. Then, after . . . but it is also imprisoned, de­ his thoughts, words, or actions. If he asking, “Whence, then, comes this stroyed, and lost.”7 He also writes, were not free, he would not be capa­ depraved nature?” it again implies “The mind, in this state, is dark, des­ ble of either reward or punishment; an “Arminian” free-will view in an­ titute of the saving knowledge of he would be incapable either of vir­ swering, “From the fall and disobedi­ God, and, according to the Apostle, tue or vice, of being either morally ence of our first parents, Adam and incapable of those things which be­ good or bad.”14 Wesley also wrote, Eve (strange, to include Eve), in Par­ long to the Spirit of God. For ‘the an­ “Natural free-will, in the present adise, whereby our nature became imal man has no perception of the state of mankind [in original sin], I do not understand: I only assert, The Arminian-Wesleyan View ment given us to help us make the that there is a measure of free-will So the Arminian-Wesleyan view of decision to repent of our sins and supernaturally restored to every human freedom has a few dis- turn to God for forgiveness through man... .”15 There follows a 10-page tinctives in it. It is the view that we Christ. discussion of man’s freedom in rela­ fallen humans have no natural ca­ Freedom as Possibility tion to God’s decrees and God’s pacity to choose to do anything An important aspect of freedom glory. Wesley states essentially that good or genuinely religious; we only for Arminianism (as well as for some even though we must freely receive have a natural freedom to do one or other orientations) is that it is possi­ God's forgiving grace, this does not another evil act, but not a good act. bility. This is freedom in the sense of detract from God’s glory, and we still This is because of a fall through what Christ meant in a discusssion properly understand that we are jus­ Adam, who had been selected by of freedom in John 8:31 -36. To Jews tified by faith alone. In another trea­ God to represent the whole human “who had believed him” He por­ tise Wesley says, “I believe that race that was to follow him. Adam trayed the freedom He offers as the Adam, before his fall, had such free­ was himself actually free to obey or opposite of slavery, and as knowing dom of will, that he might choose ei­ to disobey God’s command not to and living by His truth. He told them ther good or evil; but that, since the eat of the tree of the knowledge of that after “you hold to my teaching,” fall, no child of man has a natural good and evil. “Then you will know the truth and power to choose anything that is the truth will set you free” (v. 32). truly good.”16 This is a freedom that comes after Wesley always denied the natural slavery to sin is passed. Saying that free will to do good since the Fall, “Freedom is possi­ “everyone who sins is a slave to sin” but he always taught that prevenient bility.” (v. 34), He went on to say: “So if the grace is given to everyone, so that — Seren Kierkegaard Son sets you free, you will be free choices of the good are possible indeed” (v. 36). This is what Paul even before regeneration. Speaking calls, “the glorious freedom of the of himself and John Fletcher, he Arminius has an important insight children of God” (Rom. 8:21). It is says that they “absolutely deny nat­ in suggesting that God gave to what Paul also calls “the freedom ural free will. . . . We both steadily Adam at this point a symbolic, in dis­ we have in Christ” (Gal. 2:4), when assert that the will of fallen man is by tinction from a natural, law. Arminius false brothers had crept into the nature free only to evil.”17 Wesley said that a natural law is one that we Christian “ranks” and tried to rob the was saying that without prevenient can see with our natural reason, that believers of their freedom from the grace we are free only to do one evil theft violates property rights, that a Pharisaic interpretation of God’s law. thing or another, but not a good or theft takes from another person Paul soon exclaims, “It is for free­ religious act. Yet, for Wesley, there is what presumably is owned, having dom that Christ has set us free” probably no purely natural or animal been earned. He said that a sym­ (5:1). man: prevenient grace works in at bolic law proscribes something that These teachings of Christ and least all who have not committed the we could not see to be wrong, using Paul show that freedom is freedom so-called unpardonable sin. And as simply our reasoning capacity. Then, from slavery to sin (see also Rom. it does work in us, we can choose if we would obey it, it would be from 8:1-17), and freedom from legalism. righteously; yet, while it works in us, sheer obedience, and not because They are part of a wider conception we can also reject Christ and be fi­ we could see that it was a valid law. of freedom as simply possibility, nally lost. The law given to Adam and Eve was which Saren Kierkegaard elucidated Even the semi-Pelagians, just af­ a symbolic one. When they dis­ to such extent. ter Pelagius’ time, denied the need obeyed it, therefore, it was sheer For Kierkegaard, reacting as he of prevenient grace. They taught, as disobedience and utterly repre­ did against Friedrich Hegel (for the Pelagians did, that we have the hensible. Eve did so first, but she whom freedom is simply the liberty power to initiate our salvation. Ar­ had not been chosen as our repre­ we have to follow what our reason minius and Wesley and Wiley later all sentative. When Adam did, we suf­ dictates), freedom is possibility. In correctly denied this. They all taught fered a racial fall. Kierkegaard’s Fear and Trembling, that we do not possess natural free This fall was in all aspects of our built around the Abraham-lsaac will to do the good but must be nature, so we refer to the effects as story, freedom is the capacity we helped thereto by prevenient grace. total depravity. As depraved in our have to throw reason to the winds Yet it is proper to say that the moral nature, we are inclined to evil and obey the sure voice of God— as Arminian-Wesleyan tradition teach­ and that continually. We are by Abraham did in proceeding to sacri­ es human freedom. This is because, nature— a fallen nature— free only fice his son of promise. In Kierke­ in this tradition, it is taught that, even to choose between evil things. Pre­ gaard’s Stages on Life’s Way, free­ in the context of prevenient grace, venient grace is given to all of us, dom is the capacity we have to we ourselves can either accept however, so we are not purely natu­ make transitions in life from one Christ or reject Him— and that our ral and fallen. This prevenient grace stage to another— from seeking eternal destiny depends upon our accounts for any altruistic act what­ simply pleasure as a bachelor might; free response to or rejection of ever that we might do prior to our to willingness to be ethical in such God’s offer of salvation. regeneration. It is also an enable­ pursuit as typified by marriage; to

24 religious decisions, when God is fig­ religiously, in a certain nation, at a This view means that we will not ured in, especially the God who is certain time in history. say to a congregation, in an evan­ wholly different from us qualitatively. The fact of our destiny is from a gelistic service, “You do your part In Kierkegaard’s Concept of Dread, necessitated heritage; the form of it, and God will do His part.” This has freedom is the transition we make only, is from our choice, in the con­ often been said in Arminian-Wesley­ from the sin-fall to the God-relation text of grace. As Loyd Morgan said, an auspices, and yet is not theologi­ — through the dizziness of dread we are consequents (necessitated), cally correct. It suggests that they and despair, to the willingness to but also emergents, with freedom. first do their part in their salvation, suffer as God’s obedient children.18 The present moment, as Alfred and begin to respond to God, and While in idealism (as in Hegel) North Whitehead suggested, is then God will do His part. In fact, un- freedom is the power to follow rea­ charged with the promise of all mo­ regenerate persons cannot do any­ son wheresoever, and in positivism it ments yet to be. We are determined thing that is their part to do until God is the capacity to relate ourselves in many ways; but in that given con­ first does His part of extending pre­ agreeably to the thingly world that text, we are determinants. venient grace to them. we can posit— freedom, for Kierke­ We are both the summation of This view also means that in pub­ gaard, as an existential theologian, many necessity factors and also the lic evangelism the Arminian-Wesley­ is basically possibility. This is what locus of novelty. Out of the three an will not say (as is often said), freedom importantly is for Christ given factors, as Robert Browning “God will meet you half way.” That and Paul, as shown above. And the said, there can come a star, for man, presumes the Pelagian and the understanding can be roped into the “grand perhaps.” With us, the semi-Pelagian view that we can ini­ and incorporated into the Arminian 2-plus-2 of necessity can equal 202, tiate our own salvation. It suggests understanding of freedom. Then through freedom. It is determined that after we begin to do what it is freedom is more than the power that we think with a human mind. It our part to do in our salvation, God given us fallen persons to turn to is not determined what we think. will then begin to help us. Being Christ. It is the freedom to flower in As Pascal said, we are often a frail fallen creatures, inclined to evil and servanthood to Christ. It is the free­ reed (as he was), but we are a think­ that continually, God must come all dom under grace to become a Karl ing reed. And as Henri Bergson elu­ the way to where we are and initiate Barth or a Billy Graham— or, for that cidated the matter, the being in in us our first faint desires to turn to matter, their opposites. A cow only whom the greatest risk is involved, Christ. I has a small range of capacity (e.g., man, is the being in whom the great­ of giving from only a little milk a day est gain is possible. 1. Caspar Brandt, The Life of James Arminius, trans. John Guthrie (London: Ward and Co., 1854), to several gallons). We humans are God risked much, in creating us 32. limitlessly free. humans with the freedom, now, to 2. See Carl Bangs, “Arminius and the Reforma­ unleash horrendous nuclear disas­ tion," Church History (June 1961), 7. Freedom and Necessity 3. See Philip Schaff, Creeds of Christendom, Vol. ter, or to love our fellowman across 3 (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1977 reprint), It needs to be kept in mind that we all boundaries: gender, age, ideol­ 486-516. humans have our freedom not only ogy, whatever. 4. Ibid., 307 ff. in conjunction with prevenient grace 5. Ibid. Another way to think of necessity 6. See James Arminius, The Writing of James but also in the context of many fac­ and freedom is to understand that Arminius (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1956 reprint), 1:276-380. He permitted 14 of these misrep­ tors of necessity— which we do not necessity decides for us numerous choose. We do not begin our lives at resentations to be circulated for some two years, and factors of history (our “far foretime”) only opposed them when 17 others became at­ zero; already, long before our birth, and externality (the environment we tached to them. many necessity factors have been at 7. Ibid., 1:526. are born into); but that we are 8. Ibid. work to make us what we are. Mat­ characterized by an inwardness, in 9. Ibid., 527. thew Arnold was right, that every­ 10. Ibid., 528. which we possess under grace the one strikes his roots in a “far fore­ 11. See William Strickland’s Ph.D. dissertation capacity to judge, to venture, to submitted to Vanderbilt University in 1967. time.” Limits we do not set, and choose, to soar. 12. John Wesley, “The Question, 'What Is an Ar­ often would not set, condition all minian?' Answered,” The Works of John Wesley What the Arminian View Means 10:358. that we do. The genes we have no 13. See Volume One of it in the Rare Book Room control over determine whether we This view means that we Armini- of the Nazarene Theological Seminary library in Kan­ will be a basketball center, an opera an-Wesleyans are not Pelagians, sas City. 14. John Wesley, “On Predestination,” Sermon singer, a select musician. We must since we believe in original sin and LVIII, The Works of John Wesley (Grand Rapids: be born with the correct Dixieland since we believe even in the neces­ Baker Book House, 1979 reprint), 6:227. seeds in us if we are to be able to sity of prevenient grace to enable us 15. Ibid., “Predestination Calmly Considered,” 10:229-30. select a key and fall in with notes to use our freedom for taking savory 16. Ibid., “Remarks on a Defence of Aspasio Vin­ that express religious or other feel­ directions in our lives. dicated,” 350. 17. Robert W. Burtner and Robert E. Chiles, eds., ings as in jazz. We play the game of This view means that we will use A Compend of Wesley's Theology (Nashville: Ab­ life, but we do not choose whether evangelistic methods, such as ingdon Press, 1954), 132-33. to be a part of the game. We play it prayer, before and perhaps even 18. Soren Kierkegaard, Fear and Trembling, trans. Walter Lowrie (Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University as females or males, gender being during a personal evangelism at­ Press, 1941); Either/Or: A Fragment of Life, trans. already decided for us. We play it as tempt, so as to secure an in­ David F. Swenson (Princeton: Princeton University persons being born without our free tensifying of the prevenient grace Press, and London H. Milford: Oxford University Press, 1944); and The Concept of Dread, trans. Wal­ choice into a certain kind of family given the person we are seeking to ter Lowrie (Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University economically and educationally and win to Christ. Press, 1944). John Wesley’s Defense of the Doctrine of Original Sin by Herbert McGonigle President, British Isles Nazarene College Manchester, England An abridgment of a paper read at the Tyndale Fellowship Conference on Historical Theology, which met at Cambridge University, July 1985.

ohn Wesley vigorously and systematically pro­ and alarmed he was at the spread of unitarianism in claimed and defended the orthodox doctrine of England and its corollary denial of the doctrine of origi­ Joriginal sin as a vital part of the Christian revelation. Asnal sin. Wesley’s concern was both doctrinal and prac­ early as 1727 he wrote to his father from Oxford about tical. Theologically, he viewed unitarianism as destruc­ how he was wrestling with the problem of the origin of tive of the very foundations of the Christian doctrines of evil.1 Sixty-four years later, just two months before his Incarnation and redemption. Evangelistically, he saw it death he gave his views on this subject in a letter to one as a very real threat to the proclamation of the gospel of his preachers.2 Throughout his long ministry this doc­ and the work of bringing men to Christ. trine held a very prominent place in his thinking. The unitarianism in question was being propagated At the first conference he convened in London, June by Dr. John Taylor of Norwich. Wesley had been aware 25-30,1744, the question was asked: “In what sense is of Taylor’s teachings for some years. In his J o u rn a l for Adam’s sin imputed to all mankind?” The answer agreed Sunday, August 28,1748, he recorded a preaching visit on was: “In Adam all die, that is, 1. Our bodies then to Shackerley in northwest England. “Abundance of become mortal. 2. Our souls died, that is, were disunited people were gathered before six, many of whom were from God. And hence, 3. We are all born with a sinful, disciples of Dr. Taylor’s, laughing at original sin and, con­ devilish nature. By reason whereof, 4. We are children of sequently, at the whole frame of scriptural Christianity." wrath, liable to death eternal; (Romans 5:18; Ephesians Three years later he wrote of his visit to the same area: 2:3).”3 In 1761 he wrote of how regrettable it was that “Being now in the midst of Mr. Taylor’s disciples, I en­ there should be misunderstanding among “the few cler­ larged much more than I am accustomed to do on the gymen in England who preach the three grand, scrip­ doctrine of original sin, and determined, if God should tural doctrines— Original Sin, Justification by faith and give me a few years of life, publicly to answer his new Holiness consequent thereon.”4 In 1764 he was pro­ gospel.”10 Later, in a letter to the young Augustus Top- posing “an open avowed union between all who preach lady, Wesley averred: “I verily believe no single person those fundamental truths, Original Sin,.. ,”5 In 1772 he since Mahomet had given such a wound to Christianity argued that universal wickedness could only be ac­ as Dr. Taylor. . . His books have poisoned so many of counted for by the biblical doctrine of original sin.6 the clergy and indeed the fountains themselves— the Earlier, in 1759, Wesley had published his seminal ser­ Universities in England, Scotland, Holland and Ger­ mon on this subject. Titled Original Sin and based on many.”11 Gen. 6:5, it declared this doctrine “the first, grand, dis­ John Taylor (1694-1761) was a nonconformist minis­ tinguishing point between heathenism and Christianity.”7 ter. He built his celebrated Octagon Chapel in Norwich in Wesley added that all who deny this truth, “call it ‘origi­ 1756. An ardent disciple of Samuel Clarke (1675-1729), nal sin’ or by any other title, are but heathens still in the he steadily moved to a Unitarian position. In 1749 he fundamental point which difference heathenism from published The Scripture Doctrine of Original Sin Pro­ Christianity.”8 Later in the sermon he reasoned: “Is man posed to Free and Candid Examination. In 1757 he was by nature filled with all manner of evil? Is he void of all appointed to teach theology at Warrington Academy, a good? Is he wholly fallen? Is his soul totally corrupted? stronghold of unitarianism not far from Shackerley, . . . Allow this and you are so far a Christian. Deny it and where Wesley confronted his disciples.12 Taylor’s book you are but a heathen still.”9 had been hugely influential, and in 1758 Jonathan Ed­ Two years earlier, in 1757, Wesley had published his wards lamented the harm it had done in New England.13 important work, The Doctrine of Original Sin, according It was to this work that Wesley set himself in the task of to Scripture, Reason and Experience. He had taken answering in December 1756. more than two months out of his usual busy itinerancy, Taylor’s book was marked by much erudition for, devoting the time to writing this treatise. The result was among other qualifications, he was an acknowledged the longest single piece he ever published. Why did Hebraist. His lively, restrained, and readable style had Wesley devote his time and energy to this publication? made the book very popular. Taylor presented his trea­ His J o u rn a l and his L e tte rs show how deeply disturbed tise in three parts. The first dealt with, “All the passages

26 of scripture concerning the consequences of the first the race, he strongly and repeatedly asserts that all men transgression,” and Taylor asserted there were only five are subject to mortality as a result of Adam’s sin. If this of these: viz. Gen. 2:17; 3:7-24; Rom. 5:12-20; 1 Cor. is so, then Adam was a representative of the whole race 15:21 -22; and 1 Tim. 2:14. The second part of the work because the sentence of death passed on him because was his examination of passages of Scripture other than of his sin. It was also passed through him to all his de- the five already dealt with, that have been used by or­ scendents. thodox theologians to defend the doctrine of original sin. Dealing with 1 Cor. 15:22, “As in Adam all die,” Taylor This was, in fact, Taylor’s reply to the relevant passages argues that this is no more than that physical death in the Westminster Larger Catechism. The third part of “from which mankind shall be delivered at the resurrec­ Taylor’s book was titled “In consequence of Adam’s Sin, tion.”16 Wesley is unimpressed with this conclusion. First he and his posterity were adjudged to Labour, Sorrow he believes that the “all” who will be made alive by Christ and Death.” He published a second edition in 1741, a (v. 22) is conditioned by verse 23, “they that are Christ’s third edition in 1746, and a fourth edition, to which refer­ at his coming” (KJV). Having established this point, ence will be made later, appeared posthumously in Wesley then makes the theological punchline: “We may 1767. firmly conclude that more than the mere death of the It was Taylor’s third edition that Wesley had before body came even upon these by Adam’s sin, seeing the him. He characterized it as “open Deism,” indeed it is resurrection which comes to them by Christ is far more “old Deism in a new dress,” sapping the foundation of than the mere removal of that death. Therefore their dy­ “all revealed religion, whether Jewish or Christian.”14 ing in Adam implies far more than the bare loss of the Wesley begins with an overall view of human history bodily life we now enjoy, seeing that their being made from Genesis 3 to the present, and paints a stark and alive in Christ implies far more than a bare recovery of realistic picture of fallen man through the ages. Every­ that life.”17 where and in every age there is evidence of pride, mal­ Taylor devoted many pages to a close examination of ice, envy, hatred, fear, lying, treachery, and murder. In the Rom. 5:12-19, but his conclusion is no surprise. “It second part of his reply, which runs to some 76 pages, seems then confirmed that ‘by one man’s disobedience, Wesley deals with how Scripture accounts for universal many were made sinners,’ means only, ‘By Adam’s sin human wickedness: “In Adam all die” and by the first . . . the many were made subject to death.’ ” Wesley’s man came both natural and spiritual death; by “this one response here is somewhat disappointing. As with all man sin entered into the world.” his writings, he seems concerned to make his replies as Now, for the first time, Wesley refers directly to Tay­ concise as possible, and this does not allow for the kind lor’s text where he had written: “No evil but temporal of detailed textual exegesis and sustained theological death came upon men in consequence of Adam’s sin.”15 application that is required. Wesley’s conclusion is: “In That one sentence is almost a summary of Taylor’s and through their first parent, all [Adam’s] posterity died whole thesis. He denies that Adam was in any sense the in a spiritual sense; and they remain wholly ‘dead in tres­ representative of mankind, and he denies, with repeated passes and sins,’ till the second Adam makes them arguments, that the human race is sinful as a con­ alive. . . . And through the infection which they derive sequence of Adam’s sin. We become sinners by our from him [Adam], all men are and ever were, by nature, own choice. The one and only consequence of Adam’s entirely ‘alienated from the life of God; without hope, sin that affects the whole race is the sentence of without God in the world.’ ”18 death— temporal, not spiritual death. Taylor interprets Wesley’s reply is the reply of orthodox Christianity. Gen. 2:17 to mean that “the death here threatened can But has he p ro v e d his point? He probably has— for be opposed only to that life God gave Adam when he those already committed to the one, true, Catholic faith created him.” Nothing is said here about Adam’s poster­ but whether an unbiased enquirer would be persuaded ity; the warning extends solely to Adam himself. Wesley is less certain. The problem here lies with Wesley’s replies with a sample of logic-chopping. Not one word of methodology. To refute Taylor adequately, Wesley Adam’s posterity perishing temporally is found in the needed to develop his arguments much more fully. This text, though such a deduction on Taylor’s own admis­ would have resulted in his treatise being twice as long sion is true. Therefore, there may be other conse­ as it was. Wesley clearly saw the fatal consequences of quences of his sin equally implied though not expressly Taylor’s teaching, and he was profoundly convinced of stated. the doctrine of original sin. To derive value from Wesley’s Wesley is on firmer ground when he replies to Taylor’s work the reader needs to have Taylor’s text before him assertion that as the actions of Adam and Eve were as well and only then will Wesley’s tantalisingly succinct theirs alone, “no other could in justice be punishable for arguments have real force. that transgression. If others were not justly punishable Wesley employs the same approach when he replies for Adam’s transgression, Wesley argues, then no other to Taylor’s attack on the Westminster Larger Cate­ was punished. But Scripture teaches, and Taylor has ch ism 's delineation of human sinfulness. Following on made this his main point, that all Adam’s posterity were from that he answers the third section of Taylor’s book punished with physical death. Therefore, Wesley con­ where Taylor defends his reconstruction of the Bible cludes, all men were justly punishable. But Wesley does doctrine of man against an imaginary opponent. In this not press the point to advantage, and nowhere in his area of his treatise, Wesley’s replies are fuller than his reply does he make any reference to what is certainly previous arguments and, on the whole, more con­ the most apparent inconsistency in Taylor’s treatise. vincing. He can easily demonstrate that Taylor’s exe­ While Taylor denies that Adam was the representative of gesis of the relevant biblical texts is generally superficial and often disingenuous. Believing that Taylor was both taking for an itinerant evangelist. Wesley’s knowledge of fundamentally and dangerously wrong in his denial of Scripture and his ability with the biblical languages is original sin, Wesley is equally provoked into attacking well demonstrated in these pages, nor is there less evi­ Taylor’s doctrines of grace, particularly his understand­ dence of his close acquaintance with the classics, the ing of redemption and regeneration. Here John Wesley Church Fathers, and the English Puritans. Yet when all the evangelist and John Wesley the theologian are due credit is given to Wesley’s work, it has to be con­ equally prominent, especially when he exposes Taylor’s cluded that Taylor’s formidable book demanded a more misunderstanding of regeneration. Taylor had defined full and more thorough answer than John Wesley of­ this as “the gaining those habits of virtue which make us fered. There is one brief postscript to this whole episode. In children of God.”19 Wesley expostulates that if that is a letter written in 1780, Wesley spoke of the late Dr. what regeneration is, then Paul should not have written: Taylor, who ran “not only into Arianism but into the very “You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus” dregs of Socinianism. I have reason indeed to believe,” (Gal. 3:26), but: “You are all the children of God by gain­ Wesley continued, “he was convinced of his mistakes ing habits of virtue.” Wesley stresses that regeneration some years before he died. But to acknowledge this is a work of God, a thorough transformation of the hu­ publicly was too hard a task for one who had lived above man spirit wrought by grace. “According to the whole eighty years.”24 But John Wesley’s hope that John Taylor tenor of Scripture, the being born again does really sig­ had finally embraced orthodox theology seems to have nify the being inwardly changed by the almighty oper­ little foundation. Six years after his death, a fourth edi­ ation of the Spirit of God; changed from sin to holiness; tion of his book published with an addition that the renewed in the image of Him that created us.”20 former editions did not have. This was titled “Obser­ In the S up plem ent to his book, Taylor, in his second vations by Way of Reply to the Rev. John Wesley.” Ac­ and third editions, had set out his replies to David Jen­ cording to the editor of this fourth edition, Taylor had nings’ A Vindication of the Scripture and Doctrine of completed his reply to Wesley just before he died. But Original Sin 21 and Isaac Watts’ The Ruin and Recovery this “Reply” is very disappointing; Taylor merely picks up o f Mankind.22 Wesley takes almost 120 pages to care­ some of Wesley’s arguments and dismisses them with fully reinforce the arguments of Jennings and Watts and one-line observations. Although this final edition ap­ also demonstrates how inadequate Taylor’s replies to peared in 1767, surprisingly John Wesley does not them are. Wesley published his complete work in Au­ seem to have known about it. This last edition of John gust 1757, and two years later he wrote a most candid Taylor’s Original Sin leaves little room for doubt that he personal letter to Dr. Taylor. “I esteem you, as a person of lived, and almost certainly died, still convinced of his uncommon sense and learning; but your doctrine I can­ Socinian theology. $ not esteem: . . . It is a controversy . . . concerning . . . those things that concern our eternal peace. It is Chris­ NOTES tianity, or Heathenism . . . Either my scheme or yours is 1. The Letters of the Rev. John Wesley, ed. John Telford, 8 vols. (London, 1931), 1:44-46. as contrary to the scriptural, as the Koran is. . . . Yours 2. In a letter to Thomas Taylor; Letters, 8:254. has gone through all England, and made numerous con­ 3. The Works of John Wesley, 14 vols. (Kansas City, n.d.), 8:277. verts. I attack it from end to end: Let all England judge 4. Letters, 4:146. 5. Ibid., 235-39. whether it can be defended or not!”23 6. Ibid., 5:326-28. In examining this major work by John Wesley, a num­ 7. Works, 6:63. ber of conclusions can be drawn. First, Wesley saw 8. Ibid. 9. Ibid. clearly that Taylor’s book was important and dangerous 10. The Journal of John Wesley, ed. Nehemiah Curnock, 8 vols. (London, enough to require an answer. In this judgment he has 1909), 3:520. 11. Letters, 4:48. found support since from those orthodox theologians 12. Another teacher at this Academy was Joseph Priestly (1733-1804), a pop­ and historians of Christian doctrine who have shown ular unitarian writer whose attacks on orthodox Christology occasioned a reply how popularly successful Taylor was in attacking this from John Fletcher. s, 13. Edwards wrote: “No one book has done so much towards .. . alienating Christian tenet. Second, this answer to Taylor from the the minds of many from . . . the main doctrines of the gospel...” See The Works founder of Wesleyan Methodism should be sufficient ev­ of Jonathan Edwards (Yale University Press, 1970), 3:102. idence in reply to those who have alleged that in his 14. Wesley, Works, 9:194. 15. Taylor, Original Sin, 7. All the quotations from Taylor used in this paper are hamartiology Wesley was a kind of Pelagian. Any fair from the third edition of the book. appraisal of this work would convince that John Wesley 16. Ibid., 25. 17. Wesley, Works, 9:246. had a very profound and scriptural apprehension of hu­ 18. Ibid., 258. man sinfulness. Third, Wesley believed that Taylor’s 19. Taylor, Original Sin, 246. book required to be answered line upon line and precept 20. Wesley, Works, 9:308. 21. Jennings’ work, published 1740-41 was meant as a reply to Taylor, and it upon precept. In this he was probably correct, but there consisted of an exposition of the passages used in the Westminster Larger are areas of his methodical reply where it could be Catechism in its teaching on original sin. wished that his well-known economy with words had 22. See The Works of Isaac Watts (London, reprinted 1810, 6 vols.), selected from his MSS by D. Jennings and P. Doddridge, in 1753; “The Ruin and Recovery not been quite so stringent. Fourth, and most important of Mankind,” 6:49-185. Earlier in his treatise Wesley had made use of Theron and of all, did John Wesley succeed in establishing the doc­ Aspasia, a theological work published in 1755 by a former member of the Oxford Holy Club, James Hervey (1714-58). He had also used what he described as trine of original sin to be a truly scriptural doctrine? “several tracts,” which were three short theological works written partly in answer Within the limitations imposed by his succinct style, the to Taylor by Samuel Hebden (1702-57), Independent minister at Wrentham in answer to this question is yes. He was endeavoring to Suffolk. 23. Wesley, Letters, 4:67-68. answer one of the most erudite and popular unitarian 24. Ibid., 7:27-28. Wesley was in error when he wrote that Taylor lived “above publications of the 18th century. It was no small under­ eighty years.” Taylor died at age 67.

28 Remembering the Elderly

by J. Grant Swank, Jr. Pastor, Church of the Nazarene Walpole, Mass.

he was blind. I looked down on her head as she sat over, she rested back in her chair, hands still folded, mak­ in the chair next to where I stood leading the sing­ ing a boney steeple heavenward. Sing. Her hair was but a whisp, and what was there was As is our custom, we shook hands with every resident not all that attractive. I tried to picture what it was present for the half-hour service. We gave them a Chris­ once— black and wavy, filled with vibrant color when tian greeting and wished them well till we would see young and healthy. them again three weeks later. They smiled and greeted She would take her arm, stretch it out as far as she us back, binding their hearts to ours on the common could in the air, and then make an arch with her hand. pilgrimage. She was trying to detect whether or not an object was Those from our congregation in the convalescent near her. She could hear my voice, so she knew I was home ministry have been seeing these people for six not far away. years now. More accurately, we have been holding Sun­ She wore a dress with light pink flowers, and a white day services at that location for that long. The truth is, sweater. On her feet were green footies, a thin necklace many have slipped from us. That makes us sad. How­ encircled her neck. She wore a plain wedding band on ever, there are always others to fill their chairs. So the her hand. Where was her husband? Dead, no doubt. fellowship of those of like faith continues. All around her were others in similar circumstances. In other pastorates, I have maintained similar minis­ They sat on hard chairs around tables in the lounge. On tries. Some of those services have been held on week­ the walls, shelves held books and records. The floor day afternoons rather than on Sunday, but the format is was hard tile— white with speckles in it. Fluorescent usually the same. lights brightened the room. Artificial plants stood in the We have found that “the simpler the better.” There­ corners of the room and nearby hall. fore, we have no sermon. Instead, devotional remarks But she could not see any of this. I don’t know how are interwoven with the gospel songs sung together. long she had been blind. Someone had helped her find (However, in visiting other pastors’ nursing home ser­ her chair before we had even entered that room. And vices, I have discovered that where residents are more there she sat until someone helped her back to her room adept to listening to a message, it has been quite appro­ at another part of the large building. priate. But the nursing homes where I have held ser­ As we sang, she listened attentively. She did not know vices have had persons who simply were not up to con­ many of the hymns. Consequently, I assumed that she centrating on a sermon as such.) was of another church background. Nevertheless, she We begin by singing several songs that are familiar to was a good listener. most churchgoers, regardless of their denominational However, when it came time to read the Shepherd’s backgrounds. There are also a few choruses that have Psalm together, she leaned her head in my direction as become favorites with the people. So the service is she kept her hands folded on the table in front of her. made up largely of singing praises to God. Instead of And as I led the group, she recited every word plainly, heavy hymnals, we use song sheets. These are held deliberately, as if not wanting the Scripture to end. She easily. Only the pianist has the printed music. was working her way through every word, soaking in the Children attend with us. This is a special treat for the meaning of every phrase. elderly, for otherwise, many of them go for weeks with­ So it was too when we ended the worship service. We out seeing a boy or girl. So when the children stand by always close by reciting the Lord’s Prayer in unison. the piano and sing their choruses, the old folks’ faces Once more, she leaned toward me, slowly and carefully light up. Also, the boys and girls circulate with the rest of stating every word, not missing a beat. And when it was us at the close of the service to shake hands with the

29 HBMHIDEA M ART residents. Sometimes it is difficult to get the youngsters away, for the oldsters want to keep them for short visits. PICTURE THIS What an opportunity to teach the children the way of Christian witness by taking them to the nursing home. It As I began a 10-month stint of interim preaching, is also true that many of these boys and girls do not see I noticed a lack of interest and attention among the old people from week to week. children and early youth. To involve them, I chal­ What happens when we have no pianist? That hap­ lenged them to bring pictures of Jesus from news­ pens sometimes. We sing without accompaniment, and paper and magazine clippings, or anywhere they it’s not all that bad. We don’t let anything stop us from could find them. having a service. I have gone to convalescent homes by Before long, pictures of Jesus began flooding in. myself at times. As long as I can carry a tune and a I wrote the contributors’ names on the backs of Bible, the service will get underway. them and posted all those that were unique and Sometimes I have used props to tell short illustrations. one of each that were duplicated on the wall. The Holding a candle, I may remind the people that we can rest went into files labeled with each child’s name, let our lights shine for the Master even in a nursing home to be returned to them. by being kind to the nurses, attendants, and other resi­ Several hundred pictures were brought. Pictures dents. I have used flowers in summer to remind them to of Jesus in all sizes covered the church wall. One blossom where they are planted, showing the beauty of boy brought in 39. I brought in copies of some of God in their lives. Serving Communion affords the the great masters’ portraits of Christ, and used chance to speak of the meaning of the elements. At them for illustrative material. On Palm Sunday, I Christmas, a wreath can bring home the point that our awarded prizes to the one who brought the most eternal hope is endless, just as a wreath circles and pictures, and to the one who brought the best. circles without end. The result of this project was that it brought me Keeping good communication with the nursing home closer to the children, and it gave them a sense of being made special helpers. staff is crucial. It is necessary to phone ahead to make arrangements. When we cannot be present, that is also — Kenneth Vogt phoned in. When there is sickness throughout the Abbotsford, B.C. home, we are likewise alerted by the facility’s staff. When we don’t go to the nursing home, we still re­ member the elderly during our own worship. That re­ HOW TO FOLD minds us of their needs and our obligation to them. At special seasons of the year, the children from the CHURCH BULLETINS congregation may make individual favors for the resi­ THE EASY “SMYRES dents. At Easter, they present personal Easter baskets to the older people. At Christmas, the residents receive WAY” greeting cards made in Sunday School classes. Advent is also a good time to pass out large oranges, relished I have often observed that church bulletins have by the old folks. been carelessly folded, the edges not meeting pre­ Over the years, we have found the ministry minis­ cisely. There is a simply made gadget that will en­ tering to us. At times I have detected that some who able you to fold them precisely, in half the time oth­ usually go to the nursing homes become weary. I know erwise necessary. they are wondering whether or not it’s really worth it. Cut a piece of %" plywood size 9" x 12", making After all, sometimes it seems that most of the residents’ sure that the sides are at exactly 90 degrees from minds are wandering, their attention spans short. At each other. Nail or glue a cleat, Vi" plywood x 2 " other times one of them may disrupt most of the service wide (measurements not crucial) along two adja­ by calling nonsense syllables out loud. Other times may cent sides, one about 10 " long, the other 8". If you find us trying to sing over a radio blaring down the hall. are left-handed, put the longer cleat on the right But I remind us all that one of these days we may be side. Sand the edges to make sure no splinters ex­ in like situations. Some of our own loved ones may be in ist. If you want a nice jobl stain the whole thing and such homes. If and when that happens, wouldn’t we glue a 9" x 12" piece of felt to the underside. Any want some believers to take time to call on us, to sing handyman in your church can make it. hymns, and to remind us of how it was in our younger When your 8V2" x 11" bulletins are ready to fold, days? place them in a pile with cover side down; take one Jesus said that His followers visit Him in prison. Leav­ and put one end of it snug against the corner ing convalescent homes, I have often felt that many of formed by the cleats, and bend it over so that the those people are in prisons of loneliness and boredom. other end also fits into the corner. Holding the two Others are hemmed in by confusion and discour­ ends there make the crease. After five minutes’ agement. Is Jesus not there— in those very homes— practice you can fold several at a time. You’ll be waiting for us to call, to sing, to pray? surprised how easy it is! It is then that I am glad I have taken time to remember. — Ron S. Smyres They tell me they are blessed by the services. But I know better. I am the one who is blessed. $

30 THIN-SKINNED OR SHOCK RESISTANT? by Raymond C. Kratzer Yakima, Wash.

met with a church board on one one is helped by this barrage, and certainly the case in the early life of occasion to help them find a new the offending party only binds his Paul. We salute Ananias for his judi­ pastor,I since their former leader had bullet-proof vest more tightly about cious and kind way of bringing out accepted another church. One of him. And a ricochet may hurt an in­ the best in this giant of a man. the board members suggested that nocent bystander. If a pastor is administered the before any names were presented, a There is a better way. Perhaps shock treatment by some person, profile of the pastor they needed you have heard the parable of the and he attempts to remove their ar­ should be worked out. I acquiesced, sun and the wind and their challenge mament by blasting away at him, he feeling this was not a bad idea at all. to each other to see how quickly will undoubtedly fail. Not only will he Many suggestions were made. they could get a certain man’s coat lack success in his efforts, but he One said the pastor should be a off his back. will cause the person to bind his atti­ good administrator, another said he The wind elected to try first. It be­ tude more securely about him. The must be a godly leader, and still an­ gan to puff and blow at the man. His tool the pastor used to cause him to other felt he should be diplomatic. coat flapped in the breeze, and it “see the error of his way” only ex­ One member mentioned that a pas­ looked as if the wind would tear it posed the lack of skill by one who tor should be “thick-skinned.” He off. Suddenly, however, the man be­ should be loved and respected. said that a preacher must not get his gan to fasten all the buttons. Then Like the sun, a wise pastor dem­ feelings hurt too easily. I wrote down as the wind blew harder, he bound onstrates his greatest effectiveness in my notebook, “RHINOCEROS the coat even more securely. Finally, by shining. His life and testimony HIDE.” the wind was out of breath, and still should be characterized by warmth Above all persons, pastors need it had been unable to remove the and blessing. His response to un­ to be sensitive to the feelings of oth­ coat. lovely treatment should be to react ers. But it is redundant to say that he With his face glowing, the sun as Jesus did. The record says: is also amenable to having his feel­ proceeded to see if he could accom­ “Who, when he was reviled, reviled ings hurt. plish what the wind had failed to do. not again; when he suffered, he In any normal congregation you He began to shine upon the subject. threatened not; but committed him­ will find someone who feels he has The radiance from his face was self to him that judgeth righteously” the “talent of criticism,” and consid­ pleasant and disarming. (1 Pet. 2:23, KJV). ers himself God’s emissary to keep Soon the man unbuttoned his Jesus practiced what He the preacher humble. So in his coat. Before long he wiped some preached. When He said “love your unique and blunt way, he proceeds perspiration from his forehead. The enemies,” He dem onstrated it! to take the pastor apart to show him sun kept on shining. Presently, the When cruel people nailed His hands, all his faults. man took off his coat and seemed that had only blessed, on a cross, On occasions like this, with one’s delighted to be relieved of the undue He could do one last thing for ego on the line, the first human reac­ discomfort he had been experienc­ them— He could die for them. And in tion is to “tell him off!” The second ing. the process He prayed, “Father, for­ impulse, if the first seems inade­ Life in the Christian dimension is give them; for they know not what quate, is to prepare a sermon with much like that. With a godly pastor they do” (Luke 23:34, KJV). some hot shots aimed at settling the there is a better way to deal with The experience of holiness— score with the recalcitrant member. those persons who seem enamored perfect love shed abroad in the Sermonic guns are readied and with unkindness and unloveliness. heart— should make one shock re­ loaded with fresh ammunition— Usually beneath their rough exterior, sistant. Care in attitudes and re­ usually not from God’s arsenal. No there lies a hidden beauty. This was sponses is vital to a more effective

31 ministry. To keep on shining in the midst of callous treatment will win PETER REMEMBERS (continued from page 9) out in the long run. To practice what one preaches is the most effective quiet, soft voice, Jesus asked, “Si­ essary for me to state that I loved sermon. mon son of John, do you truly love Him three times? It didn’t matter— I A lawyer whose adversary was me more than these?” (John 21:15). just wanted Jesus to know that I re­ especially unkind in his remarks, re­ “Yes, Lord, . . . you know that I ally do love Him. fused to let it get to him. The vicious love you,” I replied. Deep down I By then the false pride and self- prosecutor appeared to want to wondered! How could He have confidence were gone. build his own case by demeaning known? The one time I should have Jesus explained that I would live him. demonstrated my love, I walked up to my word. I would die for His After the trial, someone told the away from Him. cause. I wasn’t ready to hear that! lawyer of their admiration of his Then Jesus said, “Feed my Jesus is never easy on us. He gives aplomb and apparent tranquility dur­ lambs.” What a strange response! us something to reach for. Not want­ ing the trial. He asked: “How could A few moments passed. Again ing to face this alone, my eyes fell on you remain so calm when the pros­ Jesus asked, “Simon son of John, young John. I asked Jesus, “What ecutor said so many mean things do you truly love me?” (v. 16). I had about him?” about you?” already answered that question. Jesus declared that what He had The attorney responded: “In times Maybe He didn’t believe me the first called me to do did not depend on like this I always remember seeing a time, so I answered, “Yes, Lord, you John’s fate. If I would follow Jesus, I coyote howling at the moon one know that I love you.” would face death. night. In spite of all his ferocious an­ Your English Bibles use the word It didn’t all make sense then. But, tics, the moon just kept on shining. love. At that time, we had different now as an old man, facing execu­ No fuss, no retaliation, no yapping. Greek words for love. Jesus was tion, I have begun to understand His Just a radiant, serene, disarming ig­ asking me if I loved Him with an un­ words. I have seen how Jesus has noring of it all.” It refused to be side­ qualified love. I responded each time taken this old broken fisherman, tracked from its main purpose of that I loved Him as a friend. How filled him with the Holy Spirit, and shedding light in the night. could I now say honestly that I loved has forgiven and cleansed him from The Word says: “We then, as Him even to the point of death? all sin. I have seen Him take a cow­ workers together with him, beseech Jesus responded, “Take care of ard and transform him into one who you also that ye receive not the my sheep.” has withstood Jesus’ accusers and grace of God in vain. . . . Giving no Suddenly Jesus looked at me, told them of God’s way of salvation. offence in any thing, that the minis­ with compassion written on His In fact, the first sermon I ever try be not blamed: But in all things face, and asked, “Do you love me?” preached netted over 3,000 con­ approving ourselves as the minis­ (v. 17). This third time He asked if I verts! It was not my doing, but the ters of God, in much patience, in af­ even loved Him as a friend. His Holy Spirit spoke through me. Now flictions, in necessities, in distress­ question stung! If only I had some it all makes sense. Jesus had come es” (2 Cor. 6:1, 3-4, KJV). way to prove my love! to take the broken pieces of our fail­ Let us always be aware of the Through my tears I blurted out: help of the Holy Spirit in times of dis­ “ Lord, you know all things; you ures and put them back together tress, and may we refuse to be side­ know that I love you.” Then He into a masterpiece in His kingdom. tracked into untoward reactions. added, “Feed my sheep.” It is time for me to depart. My mis­ Rather, let us ask God to toughen Jesus was telling me that I was sion is over. I shall soon see Him our hide until the barrages of not through, that He had work for face-to-face. If Jesus can transform thoughtless people will merely be me to do. I, Peter, was the first per­ this broken fisherman, He can trans­ deflected without damage. $ son on record to experience His form anyone who lets Him work post-Resurrection forgiveness. within. Don’t feel sorry for me— In remembering and reflecting on everything has been forgiven. The that experience, I wonder if since I message of Easter is Jesus’ mes­ denied Him three times it was nec­ sage of God’s grace.” $ Pontius' Puddle THEV CERTAlNLV WERE FUN. VOO COULD CRITICIZE THEIR SERMONS, PHONE THEM ANV TIME OF THE DAV OR NlGrHT, COMPLAIN AB>OOT WHATEVER WAS ON VOOR MIND- X WONDER WHAT HAPPENED TO T H E M ? A TALE OF TWO DOGMAS by Doug Samples Pastor, Trinity Church of the Nazarene Fresno, Calif.

nce upon a time there were two groups of people. ugly. In fact, she had some of the same “family mark­ They both lived together in the holiness camp, but ings” as the boy’s mother. He thought to himself, “We Othey lived on opposite sides of the one road that wentreally are from the same camp. That should make us through town. almost family. Maybe I won’t get in too much trouble if I One group would stand on one side of the road and just talk with her for a little bit.” yell over to the other group, “Don’t you guys know that As he moved toward her, she took a cautious step sanctification is a gradual process? Everybody knows backward. “I won’t hurt you,” he said, as he came a little that you can’t get sanctified all at one time in an instant! closer. “I just want to talk. Maybe we can be friends.” The important thing is not to be perfect but to be travel­ “Us? Friends?” the little girl asked with surprise. “How ing on the road to w a rd perfection.” can we be friends? Our folks don’t get along with each The second group would yell back, “It’s y o u guys who other. All they ever do is make accusations against one are all wrong. You can’t g ro w in to sanctification. Being another and dig in their heels singing, ‘I shall not be sanctified is a definite decision of the heart that happens moved’!” at a definite moment in time!” “Why do we fuss so much?” the boy wondered. To the first group, it seemed ridiculous to talk about “What is it about our families that causes so much irri­ one specific moment in time when you can be sanctified tation and concern? What is it about my people that wholly. To the other group, it was impossible to live a life your folks don’t like?” of holiness without having a crisis experience, a second After thinking for a minute or two, the girl responded. definite work of grace. And so back and forth they went, “I’m not sure about all the reasons, but one thing I’ve year after year, generation after generation— one group heard my folks say about you process people is that you emphasizing the p ro c e s s of sanctification and the other see sanctification as some always-illusive, never-ending emphasizing the c ris is . dream. It seems to always be just beyond your reach. As they battled this theological ball back and forth It’s like you put so much emphasis on the human part of across the road, it seemed that after awhile each group becoming sanctified that you forget that the actual act reacted against each other more vehemently, defending of sanctifying is a divine work that can be completed in their own positions as best and most important. As one a moment’s time. group placed greater emphasis on the process, some­ “Another thing that bothers them,” she continued, “is one from the other group would beat the drum and pro­ concern as to whether you process people really are claim the critical importance of the crisis. This all would sanctified at all or just trying to grow a little better every have been well and good, except for the fact that this day without dealing with the heart of the issue.” new voice would usually overemphasize the crisis to the The boy stopped her. “What do you mean? I don’t neglect of any ongoing process. understand.” One effect of this theological tennis match was that all “Well, my mom says that your way of thinking is as of the young theologues born into this holiness camp ridiculous as trying to give a mudman a bath every day were forced to choose sides! Unless one said the right to keep him clean. You wash away one level of dirt today, things in the right ways, he was suspected to be “out of another layer of dirt tomorrow, and on and on it goes harmony” and “one of ‘the m .’ "And so, clear shibboleths indefinitely. But even if you give a mudman a bath every had to be distinguishable in their theological accents to day he is still going to have a mud heart until it is dealt prove that they fit in with the “right” group. with in a crisis cleansing.” One day, a little girl from the crisis group was out “OK, I can see your point,” the boy said. “If that really picking raspberries, when she stumbled across a boy is what we are doing, then we are wrong. But I don’t from the process group taking a nap in the tall grass. At think that is what we mean. I think our problem is that first they just stared at each other, not knowing whether we are so astounded by the ever-deepening life of grow­ to scream or run away. Each had been taught how cor­ ing with Christ that we can never find a time or place to ruptive the “other side” could be. So she cocked an eye stop and plant a flag and say, ‘OK, now I’m sanctified!’ at him, he cocked an eye at her, and they stood there Just when we think maybe we’re ready to do that, God looking cockeyed at one another trying to decide what shakes us to the core with a new decision point that to do! After a few minutes, the boy began to notice demands an even deeper surrender. something interesting about the girl. She wasn’t all that (Continued on page 37) DO WE BELIEVE PEOPLE ARE LOST? by Robert E. Coleman Director, School of World Mission and Evangelism Trinity Evangelical Divinity School Deerfield, III.

A Passing Conviction Scripture. Devastating as it may be to human pride, the Nothing quite so contradicts evangelism as indiffer­ Bible says that when the Son of Man shall return to ence to the lostness of mankind. An atheist expressed it judge the living and the dead, He “will separate them well when he wrote, “Did I firmly believe as millions say from one another, as a shepherd separates his sheep they do, that the knowledge and practice of religion in from the goats.. . . Then He will also say to those on His this life influences destiny in another. . . I would esteem left, 'Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire one soul gained for heaven worth a life of suffering. which has been prepared for the devil and his angels.’ Earthly consequences should never stay my hand, nor . . . And these will go away into eternal punishment” seal my lips. . . I would strive to look upon eternity alone (Matthew 25:32, 41, 46, NASB).5 and on the immortal souls around me, soon to be ever­ Clearly our Lord taught that those who turn to their lastingly happy or everlastingly miserable. I would go own way shall be sentenced to a place of conscious forth to the world and preach it in season and out of separation from God and the loss of all that is good, season, and my text would be ‘What shall it profit a man including heaven. It is this “banishment from the pres­ if he gain the world and lose his soul?’ ”1 ence of the Lord,” Wesley noted, that is “the very es­ The question should provoke an answer; that is, if we sence of destruction.” What makes the loss so terrifying believe that people are lost. I am afraid, however, that the to the soul is the knowledge then “that God alone is the sense of impending doom and “desire to flee from the centre of all created spirits; and, consequently, that a wrath to come,”2 so characteristic of our forefathers, spirit made for God can have no rest out of him.”6 This is does not seem of great concern today.3 Martin E. Marty, called the “Gehenna” (see Matt. 18:9);7 a habitation of eminent church historian at the University of Chicago, “outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing has keenly observed that “the passing of hell from of teeth” (8:12, KJV); a night where the cries of the modern consciousness is one of the major, if still un­ damned never die and “the fire is not quenched” (Mark documented major trends” of our time.4 After all, a gen­ 10:48).8 These and many other words of Christ, though eration preoccupied with immediate sensual grat­ in part figurative, unequivocally warn us of the awful fact ification is not likely to think much about the eternal of hell. Furthermore, He said that most people are fol­ consequences of sin. lowing a broad way that leads to this “destruction” The New Thinking (Matt. 7:13). The popular sentiment, whether consciously es­ Facing Reality poused or not, is the notion that finally all people will be Jesus is not trying to scare anyone. He simply wants saved. Proponents of this universalism believe that God us to face the fact that human existence does not end at is too good to send anyone to hell, or conversely, that the grave, and that unless the course of our life is re­ folk are too good to be doomed. In either case, the versed, the penal consequences of sin continue on for­ teachings of Christ regarding retribution for sin are na­ ever. It is “a never-ending death,”9 a state in which the ively circumvented, while the atoning purpose of His immortal soul can never die to its misery, never know cross is effectively denied. Jesus’ death becomes little relief. Well put is the warning: “Fear not them which kill more than the martyrdom of a great moral teacher. Neo­ the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear orthodox divines, like Karl Barth, may have a higher ap­ him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” preciation of our Lord’s sacrifice, but they come to the (Matt. 10:28, KJV). same conclusion. Their contention is that God’s power The question is, do we believe the Bible? In his letter is so great that nothing can prevail against His love, even to Mr. Law, John Wesley put it very pointedly: if it requires a period of purgation and another oppor­ Now, thus much cannot be denied, that these texts tunity for salvation after death. speak as if there were really such a place as hell. . . I One has to ask, however, If everyone will be saved would then ask but one plain question: If the case is regardless of their rebellion against God, why call sin­ not so, why did God speak as if it was? Say you, “To ners to repentance? Does not preaching the gospel be­ affright men from sin?” What, by guile, by dissim­ come superfluous? ulation, by hanging out false colours? Can you possi­ The Teaching of Christ bly ascribe this to the God of truth? . . . Can you con­ The issue, of course, comes back to the authority of ceive the Most High dressing up a scarecrow, as we do to fright children? Far be it from him! If there be have superior insights, still they believe that all religions then any such fraud in the Bible, the Bible is not of have redeeming worth to their devotees. What matters, God. And indeed this must be the result of all: If there then, is not God’s revelation in His Son but sincerity of be “no unquenchable fire, no everlasting burnings,” conviction, whatever it might be. It might be allowed, for there is no dependence on these writings wherein example, that whether persons follow Christ or Buddha they are so expressly asserted, nor of the eternity of is inconsequential, so long as they live up to their faith. heaven, any more than of hell. So that if we give up The problem with this view is that sincerity does not the one, we must give up the other. No hell, no change error. A man may mistakenly board a plane for heaven, no revelation!10 New York thinking that he is going to Los Angeles, but The Love of God that does not change his destination. When sincerity Admittedly, the prospect of everlasting torment is not becomes the criterion for salvation, there is no way a a pleasant thought. I think that most of us would like to confused, self-centered people can determine right believe that God is too loving to consign a person to from wrong, and finally everyone becomes a law unto unremitting remorse. What we may fail to realize, how­ himself (Rom. 2:14-15). ever, is that God will not violate His own integrity. Nor does it help by saying that persons who do not Though infinite in love, He is also holy— of purer eyes believe on Christ can follow the light they have in general than to behold evil— and He cannot ignore that sin revelation. For who has ever perfectly responded to all which would destroy His beloved. “It is not because the opportunities to know God through the natural God’s love is limited,” as Donald Bloesch notes, “but world? That is why everyone is “without excuse,” and because it is unlimited, that hell as well as heaven is given over “to a depraved mind” (Rom. 1:20, 28). The made necessary.”11 The wrath of God is only the other Scripture has concluded that all have sinned and come side of His love, a love that will never let us go, even short of the glory of our Creator (3:23). when decreeing justice. Let it be understood, though, that God is found of Love like this is painful, to be sure, and no one has those who truly seek Him, and to those who walk in the suffered more in contemplating its cost than our Lord. light they have, He is pleased to give more light (Mark Calvary is His witness. Seeing our utter lostness, God 4:25; Matt. 7:7; 13:12). We can affirm that by the pre- took upon himself in the Person of His Son the judgment venience of God’s grace everyone has been given suf­ due us all. Such love is too ficient light to come to the wonderful for us to fathom, truth. So responsibility for but we can bear witness to “The sense of impending doom salvation finally rests with its ever-present reality, that and ‘desire to flee from the each person. “while we were yet sinners, Is There Another Way? Christ died for us” (Rom. wrath to come’ does not seem Does this mean that one 5:8, KJV). of great concern today.” can be saved without a This is the gospel that knowledge of God’s re­ must be proclaimed, the deeming work in Christ? To amazing truth that the Creator and Lord of the universe this I can only answer that if such an alternative exists, it has intervened in human history and, through the mighty has not been disclosed to us. Therefore, for me to offer conquest of His Son, has made a way whereby “who­ hope of salvation through any other name would be soever believes in Him should not perish but have ever­ morally wrong. God, within His own nature, can do lasting life” (John 3:16, NKJV). But in heralding this good whatever He pleases, but for me, I can only act on the news, its corollary must also be told, that “he who does basis of His Word. not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of An analogy of Dr. Robert McQuilkein may be helpful at God abides on him” (John 3:36, NKJV; cf. 3:18; 1 John this point.12 He compares a Christian to a security guard 5:12). Hell is reserved for those who scorn God’s love by charged with the protection of residents on the 10th trampling under their feet the blood of Christ. floor of a nursing home. Among other things, it is his Those Who Have Not Heard responsibility to get the patients to safety should an But what about those multitudes who have never emergency arise. Accordingly, he is given a floor plan to heard an intelligent presentation of the Way of Life? the building, which delineates clearly where the fire exits Two-thirds of the world’s population live in darkness, are located. Should a fire break out, what would you feel usually in the bondage of false religions or idolatrous toward the guard if, rather than following instructions, he materialism. More tragically, at the present time, most of these unreached people have no one of their culture and discussed with the residents the possibility of there be­ language near enough to them to make clear what the ing other escape routes than those indicated on the gospel means. Does their ignorance excuse them from map? Or suppose that he suggested that it may not be the judgment of hell? necessary to go down the steps at all, for he had heard Those who reject the basic tenets of Scripture, of a report of someone who had jumped from a 10-story course, are not bothered with this, for they can dismiss building and survived? Would you not think the man ter­ the elusive claim of Christ that He alone is “the way, the ribly foolish, if not criminally negligent? truth, and the life” (John 14:6, KJV; cf. Acts 4:12). To Yet I am afraid that is how many of us have acted them all roads lead to God, and while Christianity may toward our Lord’s command to take the gospel to every creature. Oh yes, in our minds we still declare our loyalty hension that many who had been taught the gospel to the creeds, but by our casual attitude to the lost mul­ were now “negligent” in sounding its warning. Then, as titudes one may wonder how deeply the meaning of the if exhorting himself, he wrote in his Jo u rn a l: Cross has penetrated our hearts. Tell this rebellious generation they are already con­ When Charles Peace, the infamous criminal, was of­ demned, and will be shortly damned; preach to them fered by the prison chaplain “the consolations of re­ like Moses from Mount Sinai and Ebal, like David— ligion” on his way to the scaffold, the wretched man “The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the na­ turned upon him and exclaimed, “Do you believe it? Do tions that forget God;” like Isaiah— “Who amongst you believe it?” Then, with obvious bitterness, he cried, you shall dwell with devouring fire? Who amongst you “If I believed it, I would crawl across England on broken can dwell with everlasting burnings?”; like Ezekiel— glass on my hands and knees to tell men it was true.”13 “O, wicked men! thou shalt surely die!” Pronounce the A Burden to Recover eight woes uttered by the Son of God near the close Would that we could recover the burden for a perish­ of his ministry, and ask with Him— “Ye serpents, ye ing world felt so deeply by our Methodist progenitors! generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damna­ Not that we would become morbid in its contemplation, tion of hell?” Preach as if you had seen heaven and its least of all insensitive to the feelings of persons who do celestial inhabitants and had hovered over the bot­ not believe. No one can think of hell and be judgmental, tomless pit and beheld the tortures and heard the for we know that except for the grace of God we would groans of the damned.14 be as those without hope. When have you last heard preaching like this? It may Yet the sense of this overwhelming grace, and all its run counter to the prevailing universalism of our culture, attendant joy, cannot wash away the tears that flow at but it is our Wesleyan heritage. And if we want to see the thought of multitudes unsaved. Knowing the terror the fruits of evangelism in our day as did the early disci­ of their impending doom, we must reach out to them ples of Wesley, we would do well to emulate their exam­ with the Word of Life, “warning every man and teaching ple. One thing is sure: if we believe there is a hell, we every man in all wisdom” (Col. 1:28, NKJV). Reflecting must tell the world that Jesus saves all who will come to upon this admonition of the apostle Paul, Bishop Francis God through Him, and there is no sorrow that heaven Asbury, not long before he died, expressed his appre­ cannot heal. $

“Banishment from the pres­ “Preach as if you had seen ence of the Lord” is “the very heaven ... and had hovered essence of destruction.” over the bottomless pit.” — John Wesley — Francis Asbury

NOTES end Mr. Law,” 9:506. Developing this idea of estrangement, speaking on “Human 1. Quoted in Norman Grubb, C. T. Studd (Atlantic City: World Wide Prayer Life a Dream,” Wesley depicts hell as a prison, whose inhabitants are seen as Movement, 1935), 40. Reading this tract influenced the decision of C. T. Studd to “emblems of the rage against God and man... causing them to gnash their teeth give up his fortune and become a missionary. at Him they so long despised” (7:323). 2. Noted in the original General Rules of the Methodist Church, a statement 7. This term is recorded 11 times on the lips of Jesus, and it always refers to still included in the Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church, 67-68. a place of destruction. A different term, “hades,” refers to the place of departed 3. A good example of this thinking is the new doctrinal statement of the spirits, or, as Wesley notes, “literally the invisible world." From his sermon on United Methodist Church, "Our Theological Task,” which makes no reference at “Dives and Lazarus” (Ibid., 247); cf. the same observation in “On Faith” <12:327); all to the judgment of God nor to the separation of the wicked in hell. Not even in and "The Discovery of Faith” (7:234). describing the plight of “the world community” is there a reference to the spiritual 8. The horror of this fire, Wesley says, is that the soul is not consumed, “There lostness of mankind. The historic Articles of Religion of the Methodist Church and is no end! What a thought!” He ponders, “Every suffering is softened, if there is The Confession of Faith of the Evangelical United Brethren Church do allude to any hope, though distant, of deliverance from it. But here, hope never comes . .. Christ returning to "judge all men on the last day” and “endless condemnation of When they are cast into the fire ... 'Their worm dieth not, and the fire is not the wicked,” but, regrettably, these statements have been relegated merely to quenched!’" (“On Hell,” 6:390). “landmark” documents and have no binding place upon present belief. Ibid., 9. Wesley’s description of “the second death” in “The Way to the Kingdom” 86-104. (5:83). In his sermon “On Eternity," he contemplates this endless state: “Why, if 4. Evangelical Beacon (June 23, 1986), 15. we were only to be chained down one day, yea, one hour, in a lake of fire, how 5. Commenting on the reference to the “fire prepared from the devil and his amazingly long would one day or one hour appear! I know not if it would not seem angels," Wesley mused, "And who can doubt but that these infernal spirits will as a thousand years. But (astonishing thought!) after thousands of thousands, he immediately execute the sentence; will instantly drag those forsaken by God into has just tasted of his bitter cup! After millions, it will be no nearer the end than it their own place of torment,” in The Works of the Rev. John Wesley “The Important was the moment it began!" (6:194). Question" (London: Wesleyan Conference Office, 1878), 6:457. 10. A letter of John Wesley to Mr. Law, dated January 6, 1756, 9:508. 6. Ibid., “Of Hell," 384. Elaborating on this “punishment gloss,” he says, 11. Donald G. Bloesch, Essentials of Evangelical Theology II (New York: “There is no grandeur in the infernal regions; there is nothing beautiful in those Harper and Row, 1979), 224-25. dark abodes; no light but that of livid flames. And nothing new, but one unvaried 12. Robert McQuilken, The Great Omission (Grand Rapids: Baker Book scene of horror upon horror! ... Nor is there anything to gratify the sense of House, 1984), 51. honour No; they are the heirs of shame and everlasting contempt” (383). He goes 13. Quoted by G. Ray Jordan, The Supreme Possess/on(New York: Abingdon- on to say that to this anguish is added “the punishment of sense," which implies Cokesbury, 1945), 45. “unspeakable misery ... a guilty conscience ... self-condemnation .. . unholy 14. A notation of Francis Asbury under the Sabbath, July 9,1815, The Journal tempers; envy, jealousy, malice, and revenge; all of which will incessantly gnaw and Letters of Francis Asbury II (Nashville: Abingdon, 1958), 784-85. Asbury died the soul” (384-85). Cf. a similar statement in “An Extract of a Letter to the Rever­ less than a year later, on March 31,1816. A TALE OF TWO DOGMAS (Continued from page 33)

“Our problem with you crisis people is that you put so they had learned about each other during the afternoon. much emphasis on the crisis moment, you ignore the And sure enough, to everyone’s surprise, a gentleman’s fact that there is this ongoing shaping and molding of agreement was reached that very day that brought har­ the human nature that needs to take place in order for mony and understanding to the holiness camp for the us to become more Christlike!” first time in many years. “Oh, we don’t do that, do we?” the girl said. “I sure And, of course, the boy and girl got married and lived hope not, because I agree with you about going on to happily ever after— except for the day the girl found out deeper levels of commitment to Christ.” she was going to have a baby. “Oh, Honey,” she said, “And I sure agree with you,” the boy said, “about the “I’m sure the Lord is going to give us a p e rfe c t baby!” need to have a definite starting point in our journey with “But remember, Sweet-cakes,” the boy replied, “the Christ where we can say that we made an explicit deci­ important thing is not to be perfect but to be on the road sion to go God’s way. If we are still mudmen at heart to w a rd perfection!” feverishly trying to clean ourselves every day without “But, Darling,” she answered, “there’s nothing wrong letting Christ cleanse that heart of mud, then that point with b e in g perfect if you just understood what I am say­ of cleansing needs to be our first order of business!” ing.” “And then after the c ris is comes the p ro c e s s ,” replied “But, Cutie Pie . . . ” the girl. Like we said— they lived happily ever after. “That’s exactly right!” said the boy. “Hey! Wait a minute. If we agree, then why are our folks always fight­ ing so much? If you and I could get our folks to realize that the other side has some necessary truths to con­ tribute to the life of holiness, then maybe we could put PREACHER’S EXCHANGE an end to this silly feud!” FOR SALE: Full set (55 vols.) (Baker Book House, 1954) of And so they hurried home and came into camp walk­ The Biblical Illustrator. Excellent condition. $200. Also have ing right down the middle of the road! After everyone got extra Manuals 1923, and 1936 on. Make offer. Contact over the shock of seeing the two together, both groups Jonathan T. Gassett, 4608 N.W. 41st St., Gainesville, FL of people warily came out into the road to see what was 32606 (904-372-0114). going on. The boy and girl happily began to explain all

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want to speak to Christian educators regarding the Ministry in New Testament perspective takes the form of most decisive issue you will confront in your lead­ holding the hand of a person engulfed in fear, listening Iership assignment. What constitutes success in your intently to a person in trouble, crying with a person who leadership ministry? is hurt, or embracing the individual who is grieving. It This question is crucial because the way you define may include taking students or parishioners to the store success will determine your leadership style. for groceries, or confronting in love the lack of discipline My thesis is that there must be a vision within the or careless habits. Christian community you serve regarding ministry that is Ministry encom­ shared by both the leader and the led. Without this passes the sharing Effective leadership shared vision of ministry, the community of faith will ex­ of the Christian faith for ministry is perience disillusionment, disintegration, and despair. or a verse of Scrip­ Conversely, mobilizing a Christian community for minis­ ture with another in grounded in biblical try hinges on a radical commitment to our identity as: time of need. perspective, not brothers and sisters in Christ Christian ministry fellow travelers on a spiritual journey is the extension of organizational skills. members together of Christ’s body Jesus in our world, a fellowship of God’s people incarnating the healing, guiding, sustaining, reconciling a microcosm of the kingdom of God on earth work of Jesus in the lives of those with whom we work a community of faith and live. If you are a Christian, you are called to Christian a sacramental community in and through which the ministry. grace of God flows Ministry understood in this broadest sense is the con­ Fundamentally, I believe, effective leadership for min­ text for our specific ministry. We may be specifically istry expression is grounded in biblical perspective and called and gifted for pastoral ministry, teaching ministry, not in organizational skills. Skills, of course, are needed. evangelism ministry, music ministry, or leadership minis­ However, sharp skills without Christian motives easily try. But it is futile and self-defeating to seek to function lead to manipulation. The primary orientation and mo­ within our specific calling while ignoring the broader call­ tivation of our actions as Christian leaders must be ing to serve others in Jesus’ name. deeply theological. Jesus defined success in Christian ministry in terms How convictionally we affirm these affirmations as we of service or self-giving to others in the name and place lead will determine the degree to which our leadership of God (Matt. 25:30-34). Our responsibility as leaders is will be judged “successful” in biblical perspective. caring for God’s people as a shepherd does his sheep, Let us explore more deeply this thesis. leading and teaching them in the ways of God. Our lead­ ership mandate is to motivate, equip, and enable the First, WHAT IS "MINISTRY”? people of God to develop their gifts and give their lives in meaningful service to others in Jesus’ name. In its briefest and most general understanding, minis­ Our ministry is helping others prepare for their minis­ try is dia ko n ia or service. Ministry is service to others in tries. Jesus’ name. Certain words help us understand the var­ Dietrich Bonhoeffer, in Life Together, lists seven ious dimensions of Christian ministry. Words like caring, expressions of ministry by which a Christian community sharing, growing, relating, teaching, and confronting. must be judged and characterized.

38 1. The Ministry of Holding One’s Tongue ministers of Christ, is known by the personalities it en­ James tells us that one who holds his tongue in check riches, not by those it dominates or captivates. Are the controls both mind and body (3:2). “Do not let any un­ people being served growing as Christians? Are they wholesome talk come out of your mouths” is an admon­ themselves becoming servants? These are crucial con­ ishment from the Ephesian Epistle (4:29). When this cerns for leadership in the community of God’s people. passage characterizes us we will be able to cease from Dr. Harold Reed, president of the Reed Institute for constantly criticizing the other person, judging him and the Advanced Study of Leadership, is author of the condemning him, putting him in his particular place. We book The Dynamics of Leadership, which reminds us can allow the other to exist as a completely free person. that the quality of our leadership is largely based on our philosophy of life. If our philosophy of life is based on a 2. The Ministry of Meekness biblical theology of church and ministry, then our style of This is caring more for others than for self. “Do not leadership will convictionally focus on the qualitative think of yourself more highly than you ought,” Paul tells growth of the led as ministers of Jesus Christ, called to us in Rom. 12:3. John tells us to make no effort to obtain serve others in His name. the praise that comes only from God. He who serves Understood this way, the Christian ministry is a must learn to think first of others. shared m inistry with every believer serving and support­ 3. The Ministry of Listening ing one another, using Holy Spirit given gifts to stimulate The first service that one owes to others in the fellow­ personal and corporate growth and reconciliation in ship consists of listening to them. Listening can be a both the church and the world. Ministry, like missions, is greater service to people than speaking. a function and expression of the whole church. It is not 4. The Ministry of Active Helpfulness something that only a few persons are called, trained, Simply assist others within the Christian community and ordained to do, but a function of the people of God. in trifling, external matter. Perhaps the outline of my model of ministry will sum­ marize this discussion on ministry and will conceptualize 5. The Ministry of Bearing (Supporting) the relationship of the leadership ministry of the pastor- “Carry each other’s burdens” is the challenge of Gal. teacher to the ministry of the church he serves (see Ap­ 6:2. To “bear” (KJV) means to forbear and sustain one pendix “A”). another in love. Eph. 4:2 commands us to be humble Again, our ministry of leadership is to prepare others and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. for their ministries. 6. The Ministry of Proclaiming This is the ministry of the Word of God. Bonhoeffer Second, WHAT IS MEANT BY THE PHRASE “SHARED does not mean the message of Scripture in a formal VISION” OF MINISTRY? setting such as in the worship service. He is referring to Vision has to do with seeing things clearly and at a the free communication of the Word of God from person great distance. It is to person. He is referring to that unique situation in seeing what others . . . which one person becomes a witness in human words do not see. a vision Christian ministry is to another, with Christian consolation. is a consuming, pas- the extension Of 7. The Ministry of Authority (Leadership) Jesus states in Mark 10:43, “Whoever wants to be­ r ef piS uT aS Jesus in our world. come great among you must be your servant, and who­ leaders are sup­ ever wants to be first must be slave of all.” This is the posed to have “vision.” Fundamental for the Christian paradox of ministry. Jesus made authority in the fellow­ leader is not so much organizational “vision” but theo­ ship dependent upon brotherly service. A servant is one logical “vision.” who gets excited about helping someone else succeed. What do we “see” in the people with whom we work! For Bonhoeffer, these practical expressions of Chris­ Do we see problems or possibilities? the present situ­ tian ministry provide the c o n te x t within which our spe­ ation or the future potential? Some leaders focus only cific ministries must function. This is particularly true as on the past. Some see only the present and say, “Why?” it relates to the specific ministry of leadership. Others dream of things that never were, and say, “Why Robert Greenleaf, in his outstanding book S e rva n t not?” Leadership, suggests a thesis that those who are lead­ Our challenge is to see beyond the past, or even the ers must serve those whom they lead. Only those who present with its problems, to “dream” or “see” re­ serve, he believes, are fit for leadership. Though written deemed individuals— all of whom are called to live as an for the secular audience, the book contains many extension of Jesus in their world, incarnating the heal­ thoughts on servant leadership similar to the words of ing, sustaining, reconciling work of Jesus in the lives of Jesus. those with whom they work and live. Christian leadership is, I believe, humble service to As leaders, we need— we must have— a consuming, others in the community of faith whose head is Christ passionate, compelling inner picture of: for the purpose of enabling them, through modeling and 1. W ho we are as the people of God teaching, to fulfill their ministry to each other and their 2. H ow we live together as the family of God, and mission in the world. 3. W hat we are called to do with our lives in the work The question is, How can our ministry of Christian of God leadership enable o th e rs to fulfill th e ir ministry to each And leadership is the transference of this vision! other and th e ir mission in the world? Leadership, for Our desperate need is to transfer our vision of minis­ try to those for whom we have Christian care and re­ dents, staff, or parishioners to catch from us? We want sponsibility, who will in turn transfer their vision to oth­ our people to catch from us a servant spirit, committed ers! To believe that all Christians— yes, even those with to motivating, equipping, and enabling them to serve whom we work who sometimes make life so difficult— others in Jesus’ name. This is success for the Christian are c a lle d and gifted for the ministry of Christ. More and leader! This is what it means to be a servant leader! more, we need to see ourselves as e q u ip p e rs of minis­ What we are confronted with is a need to commu­ ters. Unfortunately, most of us have been educated to nicate a life-style that is distinctly Christian— and self­ be ministers, not to be enablers of ministers. giving at the core. But how do you communicate a life­ Shared ministry demands deep “seeing" and deep style? How do you teach commitments, priorities, “visioning.” Only the person who can see the invisible values, and spiritual disciplines? How do you teach a can do the impossible. Questions such as “what i f . . . ” life-style? and “why not ..” ought to permeate our mind-set re­ Whatever else it means, it demands taking seriously garding the Christians with whom we work. What i f . . . the principle of imitation. Herbert Mayer, in his book P as­ they were all called to the Christian ministry? Why not toral Care, Its Roots and Renewal, reminds us that this . . . assume it is true and proceed accordingly! principle was a key in Christian leadership for 18 centu­ Elton Trueblood states it most clearly, ries. We must recapture this principle if we are to take Unless the layman is given solid teaching, his minis­ seriously the biblical mandate to be an example to be­ try, after an initial burst of freshness, will tend to de­ lievers. “Follow my example, as I follow the example of generate into little more than a string of trite phrases Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). “You ought to follow our example” linked to commonplace ideas and buttressed by a few (2 Thess. 3:7). “Whatever you have learned or received sloppily quoted biblical passages. We must take the or heard from me, or seen in me— put it into practice” education of the laity with utter seriousness. Lay per­ (Phil. 4:9). “We did this,. . . in order to make ourselves a sons are not assistants to the pastor, to help him do model for you to follow” (2 Thess. 3:9). Paul gave these his work. Rather, the pastor is to be their assistant; he words to the Christians under his care with humility, we is to help equip them for the ministry to which God must do the same for those for whom we are responsi­ has called them. The difference is as revolutionary as ble. it is total. Half measures are worse than nothing. Our Read the writings of Justin Martyr, Tertullian, John hope lies in making big plans, in undertaking to pro­ Chrysostom, Martin Luther, Richard Baxter, and John duce a radical change, in aiming high. Adult education Wesley, to name only a few, who were not hesitant to is the big thing in the church. It is not a decoration, it claim their responsibility to be an example to other be­ is the centerpiece.* lievers. Chrysostom, identified the following as qualities Only from this perspective will ministry be mutually un­ for leaders: derstood and shared. Without this shared vision, minis­ 1. love for God and the people try in and through 2. know the people Jesus defined the local church or 3. be a person of the Spirit theological institu­ 4. maintain rigorous self-discipline success in Christian tion is as impos­ 5. patience ministry in terms of sible as a triangle With these qualities, the leader can strive, according with two sides. to Chrysostom, toward the following goals and objec­ service or self-giving. Ministry happens tives: when the leader 1. to bring the people of God safely to their heavenly and the congregation, administrator and students, have home a vision of Christian ministry and pursue it together. The 2. to keep them away from the sin of the world more consuming the vision, the greater commitment to 3. to win as many souls to Christ as possible ministry. 4. to make people aware of the poor and needy We must be captured by this vision that transcends Interestingly, one of the key ways for Chrysostom to ministry to the people, and ministry fo r the people, to reach these goals was through personal example! ministry w ith the people and ministry b y the people. More specifically, what leadership qualities must oth­ The shared vision of ministry of which I speak de­ ers see in us as institutional leaders, teachers, or pas­ mands a passionate conviction regarding ministry that tors, if we are to effectively transfer our vision of ministry sets out to do something about the insight. Our lead­ to them? Eph. 4:25-32 provides for us a servant lead­ ership ministry is helping others understand and de­ ership life-style (see Appendix “B”). velop their ministry. When those with similar vision are Ephesians 4 begins with the challenge to walk worthy drawn together, something extraordinary occurs. of our calling as Christians. The characteristics of the person “walking worthy” follows the challenge. We are Third, HOW, THEN, CAN WE COMMUNICATE A VI­ instructed to be gentle, humble, patient, and supportive SION OF MINISTRY THAT WILL BECOME A SHARED of each other. In so living, we will “keep the unity of the VISION? Spirit through the bond of peace” (v. 3). Jesus challenges us in Luke 6:40, “Everyone who is But, as Christian le a de rs, how do we express gentle­ fully trained will be like his teacher.” (Or his school presi­ ness, humbleness, patience, and supportiveness? The dent!) Ministry is always incarnated and enfleshed. Min­ key principle is found in Eph. 4:15— “speaking the truth istry must be lived out! in love.” This key concept is fleshed out in the following But what is it about ourselves that we want our stu­ verses (25-32). We speak the truth in love:

40 1. Because as Christians we are God’s family. There­ in nature; they are deeply theological. The Spirit of God fore, we should speak truthfully and not lie to one is deeply concerned with the speech of His people (v. another (v. 25). 30a). 2. Because, when we do not, Satan gets a foothold in These convictional principles and concepts may not o u r live s. Therefore, we should not postpone deal­ be found in the latest secular textbook on leadership; ing with our anger and should deal with our differ­ but they are foundational for the leaders who want their ences in a Christian way (vv. 26-27). people to catch from them a servant spirit, committed to 3. Because of the power of words to heal and affirm. motivating, equipping, and enabling them to serve oth­ ers in Jesus' name. Therefore, be supportive and uplifting, and avoid Our assignment, then, as church leaders is greater negative talking (v. 29). and more demanding than communicating facts, dates, 4. Because we have been forgiven in Christ. There­ persons, places, and events. Our responsibility will in­ fore, be forgiving, and do not hold grudges and creasingly adopt it as their vision of ministry. They will become resentful (vv. 31-32). not see in us a finished product. Rather, they will dis­ Paul is not so much talking about administrative tech­ cover in us an ongoing process of transformation into niques but Christian attitudes underlying our actions Christlikeness. and activities. We are co-laborers together in the Body It is not easy. I must continually ask, What does it of Christ (v. 25). We function with others out of an “I- mean to be a servant to my students and staff where I Thou” frame of reference. The people with whom we must function in my role as seminary president? What work are God’s own creation. does it mean to be a servant in the midst of a ll the ex­ When we ignore our “family” relationship in Christ and pectations and roles and functions? treat those with whom we work as “means to an end,” And what about the risks? Misunderstandings? persons to be manipulated for our purposes, Satan gets Abuses? Betrayals? Pain? Hurts? Is it worth the risks? a “foothold” into the Christian community. The enemy of Is it really worth the risk of being a servant leader? our souls laughs at unresolved conflict within the fellow­ I am growing in my understanding of the pro­ ship of the faithful. foundness of my questions and their answers. Slowly, Our words are to be channels of God’s grace to oth­ but with inner confidence, I am developing a deep ers (v. 30). Dialogue, for Paul, is a sacrament. And God’s conviction— theologically grounded— that I must ac­ forgiveness frees us to take the initiative in forgiving cept the risks and serve my people with integrity if I am those who hurt us. to be a Christian leader. When we do not live together by these guidelines as And you, too, will be challenged to find such re­ a Christian community, the Spirit of God is grieved (v. sponses in the situations you face. 30a). But my challenge to you is to lead . . . with a visio n to We can now see more clearly how we, as leaders, can se rve and a commit­ “keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace,” ment to equip ser­ and, in so doing, walk (lead) worthy of our calling as vant leaders! If you leaders. Unfortunately, most are captured by this Again, because of these fundamental Christian atti­ vision of ministry for­ of us have been tudes, we can b e h o n e s t. . . with the believers; im m edi­ mation and are char­ ate... in dealing with conflict among us; upbuilding... educated to be acterized by a ser­ in our words, frequently expressing thoughts that, vant leadership ministers, not en­ I love you, life-style, then your ablers of ministers. I accept you, group— regardless I respect you, of its size— will be I need you, life-giving, growth-producing, and distinctly Christian. I trust you, What mark will you leave behind when you depart I serve you; and your present leadership assignment? How will anyone I fo rg iv e you . . . so that words and deeds done by ever know that you have been there? What sign will tell others to us will not create bitterness within us. the future traveler that you have existed? Can Christian leaders really “lead” out of the lead­ I believe the deepest impressions will be made in ership life-style paradigm outlined above? I believe so, those moments when you say I love you, I care for you, even in conflict situations. Because relationships are so I am your brother or sister. I will serve you in Jesus’ important to us, we “care enough to confront” our name regardless of the costs, ignoring the risks, and brother or sister in Christ when words or deeds are per­ acknowledging the conflicting roles, functions, expecta­ ceived by us to be detrimental to their growth or to the tions, and misunderstandings. growth of the fellowship. We care too much about the Find a way to serve your people. And this spirit, atti­ relationship to ignore destructive behavior. We care tude, and conviction will empower them to reach out enough to confront. and serve others in Jesus’ name! The fundamental question, always before the Chris­ This is servant leadership! To th is ministry we are tian leader, is, How can we live together as Christians so called. Measure your success in ministry by th is stan­ that our relationships are redemptive and a witness to dard! 1 unbelievers of the reconciling word of God in Christ? These principles and concepts are not psychological 'Source unknown. CHURCH EMPLOYEES OR INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS? (Submitted by the Board of Pensions and Benefits USA of the Church of the Nazarene)

“Dear Sirs: tionship exists between the church and persons per­ The only employee we have besides our pastor is forming such services as an independent contractor; a part-time custodian (or secretary). Do you know therefore, no withholding is required. However, the local of any way we could pay them by contract and save church may still be required to report to the IRS those the trouble of withholding income taxes and Social payments made to an unincorporated, independent con­ Security (FICA) taxes?” tractor. In one form or another, this question has been asked The Tax Code provides that payments for services to literally hundreds of times in financial seminars, corre­ an unincorporated, independent contractor in excess of spondence, and telephone conversations. This is in re­ $600 per year must be reported to the IRS on Form sponse to the increasing responsibilities of churches 1099 MISC. and other employers for reporting employee compen­ NOTE: sation to the IRS. Fortunately, the answer is fairly An unincorporated evangelist would be considered an straightforward. However, it is frequently not the answer independent contractor. Any payments to him or her of desired by the questioner. $600 or more, not properly designated in advance as housing allowance by the board, would require the is­ WHO ARE EMPLOYEES? suing of a Form 1099 MISC. There are basically two types of employees defined by the Tax Code: statutory employees and common-law WHAT IF WE DONT WITHHOLD AND REPORT? employees. Statutory employees have specifically de­ There are criminal and civil penalties for willful failure fined jobs that on the surface might appear to be self- to comply with requirements for withholding and report­ employed positions were it not for the statutes that de­ ing! In addition, the amount of certain taxes not withheld fine the work as that of an employee. The common-law at the time of payment from an employee’s salary (that employee is the category that affects local churches must later be paid) becomes the responsibility of the most often. employer! The employee has no obligation to later reim­ The Tax Code defines a common-law employee gen­ burse the employer for such amount. Further, in some erally as anyone who performs services that can be con­ cases, an officer or responsible employee may become trolled by the employer. That is, the employer has the personally liable for the taxes and penalties involved. legal right of control (even if the right is not exercised) WHAT IF WE ARE NOT SURE IF WE HAVE AN over the means, methods, and results of the services EMPLOYEE OR AN INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR? provided. If the employer/employee relationship is The local church should carefully consult IRS Publica­ deemed to exist based on the facts in each case, it does tion 15 “Circular E— Employer’s Tax Guide” and the free not matter what it is called, nor how the payments are Publication 539 for examples that might be similar to the measured or paid, nor if the services are performed full­ church’s situation. (Both are available from the IRS: time or part-time. The employer must determine any tax­ 1-800-424-FORM.) Consultation should be made with a able amounts paid, withhold appropriate taxes for lay local legal and/or tax counselor for advice. If questions employees, and pay and report those taxes to the IRS. still arise, a special form is available from the IRS to Virtually all church custodians, church secretaries, paid request that they determine if such person has an em­ choir directors, paid nursery workers, etc., are viewed ployment relationship with the local church. In no case by the IRS as common-law employees. should the questions be ignored, nor should there be willful failure to abide by local requirements for with­ WHO ARE INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS? holding and reporting either wages paid to employees or Some local churches do hire independent contractors payments in excess of $600 to unincorporated, inde­ who offer specific services to the general public. Gener­ pendent contractors. ally, in a year’s time an independent contractor will have The information contained in this article is of a general more than one organization to whom he offers services. nature. It is not offered as specific legal or tax “advice.” Examples would be services provided by a janitorial ser­ Each person, local church board, and district should vice, snow removal service, roofing contractor, etc., that evaluate their own unique situation in consultation with are advertised city-wide. No employer/employee rela­ their local legal and tax advisers. $

42 How John Wesley Handled Money by Charles Edward White Spring Arbor College Spring Arbor, Mich.

ohn Wesley preached a lot winter’s day, and he noticed that she surplus money away. One year his about money. He had many had nothing to protect her except a income was a little over £1400. He Jideas about right and wrong uses ofthin linen gown. He reached into his lived on £30. He gave £1400 away.4 wealth. And, as the man with one of pocket to give her some money to Because he had no family to care the highest earned incomes in En­ buy a coat, but found he had very for, he had no need for savings. He gland, he had opportunities to put little left. Immediately the thought was afraid of laying up treasures on his ideas into practice. Many people struck him that the Lord was not earth, so the money went out as could ignore what Wesley said pleased with the way he spent his quickly as it came in as income. He about money, but none could dis­ money. He asked himself: reports that he never had £100 at miss the way he used it. What he “Will thy Master say, ‘Well done, any one time.5 preached with his deeds spoke good and faithful steward?’ Thou Wesley limited his expenditures louder than what he preached with hast adorned thy walls with the by not purchasing the kinds of his words. money which might have things that were thought essential John Wesley knew grinding pov­ for a man in his station of life. In erty as a child. His father, Samuel screened this poor creature from 1776 the English tax commissioners Wesley, served as the Anglican the cold! O justice! O mercy! Are inspected his return and wrote him priest in one of England’s lowest- not these pictures the blood of the following: “[WE] cannot doubt paying parishes, and he had nine this poor maid?”2 children to support. Samuel was Perhaps as a result of this inci­ but you have p la te for which you rarely out of debt. Once John saw dent, in 1731 Wesley began to limit have hitherto neglected to make an his father being marched off to debt­ his expenses so that he would have entry.” They were saying that a man or’s prison. Thus, when John fol­ money to give to the poor. He re­ of his prominence certainly must lowed his father into the ministry he cords that one year his income was have some silver plate in his house, had no illusions about financial re­ £30, and his living expenses £28, so and accusing him of failing to pay wards. he had £2 to give away. The next the excise tax on it. Wesley wrote It probably came as a surprise to year his income doubled, but he still back: “I have two silver spoons at John Wesley that, while God had managed to live on £28, so he had London and two at Bristol. This is all called him to follow his father’s voca­ £32 to give to the poor. In the third the plate I have at present, and I tion, he had not also called him to year his income jumped to £90. In­ shall not buy any more w h ile so share his father’s life of poverty. In­ stead of letting his expenses rise many round me want bread.”6 stead of being a parish priest like his with his income, he kept them down Another way Wesley limited his father, John felt God’s direction to £28 and gave £62 away. In the expenses was by identifying with to teach at Oxford University. There fourth year he received £120. As be­ the needy. He had preached that he was elected a fellow of Lincoln fore, his expenses were £28, so his Christians should consider them­ College, and his financial status giving rose to £92.3 selves members of the poor whom changed dramatically. His position Wesley had preached that the God had given them money to aid. usually paid him at least £30 a year, Christian should not merely tithe but He put his words into practice by liv­ more than enough money for a sin­ also give away all extra income once ing and eating with the poor. Under gle man to live on. John seems to the family and creditors were taken Wesley’s leadership, the London have enjoyed his relative prosperity, care of. He believed that with in­ Methodists had established two spending money on playing cards, creasing income, the Christian’s homes for widows in the city. They tobacco, and brandy.1 standard of giving should rise, not were supported by offerings taken While at Oxford an incident oc­ the standard of living. As we have at the band meetings and at the curred that changed John Wesley’s seen, he began this practice at Ox­ Lord’s Supper. In 1748 nine widows, perspective on money. He had just ford. He continued it throughout his one blind woman, and two children finished paying for some pictures for life. Even when his income rose into lived there. With them lived John his room when one of the chamber­ the thousands of pounds of sterling, Wesley, and any other Methodist maids came to his door. It was a cold he lived simply, and quickly gave his preacher who happened to be in

43 town. Wesley rejoiced to eat the same food at the same table, look­ ing forward to the heavenly banquet that all Christians would share.7 Wesley not only identified with the poor by sharing their food and lodg­ ing, and by forgoing the luxuries that so many considered necessities but also sometimes went without necessities in order to have more KERYCMATIC money to give away. For almost four years, Wesley’s diet consisted main­ ly of potatoes. He lived on potatoes to improve his health, but also to save money. He said: “What I save WORSHIP from my own meat, will feed another that else would have none.”8 By these means the man who he topic of worship has been a fect of preaching (calling people to made more than £1000 a year found much-discussed item recently, repentance, for “the kingdom of he could live on £30 and give the Tas many congregations have beenheaven is at hand,” Matt. 3:2, KJV). rest away. In 1744 Wesley had writ­ thinking about how to make their Kerygmatic preaching is relevant ten, “[When I die] if I leave behind worship a more joyous and mean­ to people in modern life. F. Dean me ten pounds . . . you and all man­ ingful occasion. Admittedly, the cha­ Lueking describes preaching as, kind [may] bear witness against me, rismatic movement has caused “the art of connecting God and peo­ that I have lived and died a thief and some of this introspection, as their ple.”2 Kerygmatic preaching strug­ a robber.”9 When he died in 1791 the lively brand of worship often stands gles to connect God with people by only money mentioned in his will in stark contrast to the lifeless, making the gospel relevant. It is was the miscellaneous coins to be anemic worship of some local alarming the number of worship ser­ found in his pockets and dresser churches. This contrast has left vices that are moving away from the drawers.10 What had happened to many wondering, “What makes wor­ centrality of proclaiming the Word of the rest of his money, to the esti­ ship Christian?” God, that is, kerygmatic worship. mated £30,000 he had earned over A close look at the New Testa­ Too many sermons are being re­ his lifetime? He had given it away. As ment reveals that genuine Christian placed by light, albeit Christian, en­ Wesley said, “I cannot help leaving worship must always proclaim the tertainment. However, we preachers my books behind me whenever God death and resurrection of Christ. have only ourselves to blame. Per­ calls me hence; but, in every other The Greek word used for what is haps this has happened because respect, my own hands will be my proclaimed is ke ryg m a .1 Kerygma our preaching is no longer relevant executors,”11 and worship must be bound to­ to the needs of the people. In those days when a person of gether in the church. What would Kerygmatic preaching is done in note died the newspapers noted the our worship be without the truth of demonstration of the Spirit and of death and, in great detail, the estate the death and resurrection of power. Too many sermons become a left by the deceased. When John Christ? This truth makes our wor­ showcase for the pastor’s diploma Wesley died the newspapers com­ ship distinctively Christian and and academic skills rather than pro­ ment on his estate was: “He left transforms a small gathering of two claiming the Word of God under the nothing.” $ or more into a gathering in Jesus’ anointing of the Holy Spirit. This is name. Only then may we expect the not an argument against an edu­ NOTES presence of the resurrected and ex­ 1. Vivian H. H. Green, The Young Mr. Wesley cated clergy or against a preacher (New York: St. Martin's Press, 1961), 102. alted Savior in our midst. Through properly preparing before entering 2. John Wesley, "On Dress," in The Works of His presence people are connected John Wesley, ed. Thomas Jackson (London: Wes­ the pulpit. Calvin said he would leyan Methodist Book Room, 1872; reprint ed., with God’s resurrection power. This rather go into the pulpit naked than Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1979), 7:21. is kerygmatic worship. Now let’s unprepared. It is an argument that 3. “The More Excellent Way,” Works 7:36. look at the characteristics of keryg­ 4. John Wesley Bready, England: Before and Af­ educated clergy must realize that ter Wesley (New York: Russell and Russell, 1938), matic worship. preparation involves more than exe­ 238. 5. Letter of John Wesley cited in Luke Tyerman, I. Kerygmatic Worship Must gesis, it also involves prayer. It is pri­ The Life and Times of the Rev. John Wesley, M.A., Feature Kerygmatic Preaching. marily through prayer that the minis­ Founder of the Methodists, 3 vols. (London: Hodder Naturally, this is biblical preaching, ter preaches in the power of the and Stoughton, 1890), 3:614. 6. Cited in Bready, England, 238. but kerygmatic preaching becomes Holy Spirit. 7. “A Plain Account of the People Called Meth­ more specific in what it demands Kerygmatic preaching clearly calls odists,” Works 8:265. from a preacher. It tells the preacher 8. “On the Danger of Increasing Riches,” Ibid., people to repentance. Much preach­ 7:356. what to preach (Christ crucified and ing has primarily become a sec­ 9. “An Earnest Appeal to Men of Reason and resurrected, 1 Cor. 1:23; 15:12), how ond-rate pop psychology aimed at Religion,” Ibid., 8:40. 10. Tyerman, Life and Times 3:617. to preach it (in demonstration of the making people feel better about 11. “The Danger of Riches,” Works 7:9. Spirit and of power, 2:4), and the ef­ themselves instead of calling sin- the congregation sits in the shad­ When floodlighting is well done, ows. It sees every Christian wor­ the floodlights are so placed that shiper as an ambassador for Christ, you do not see them; you are not through whom God appeals to the in fact supposed to see where the world beyond the sanctuary to be light is coming from; what you are reconciled to himself (2 Cor. 5:20). meant to see is just the building Every Christian worshiper is an am­ on which the floodlights are bassador proclaiming the kerygma, trained ... This perfectly illus­ by Barry E. Bryant imploring the world to be reconciled trates the Spirit’s new covenant London, England to Christ, simultaneously celebrating role. He is, so to speak, the hidden the love of God that makes reconcili­ floodlight shining on the Saviour.5 ation possible. Kerygmatic worship is, by its very nature, evangelical and Paul rounds off this understand­ ners to repentance. In the words of rooted in the reformation biblical ing of worship in the Spirit with his understanding of “spiritual worship.” William Booth, the Christian preach­ doctrine of the priesthood of be­ er should preach as a “dying man to lievers. This means each believer I appeal to you therefore, breth­ dying men.” Our preaching is no lon­ has access to God as a priest. But it ren, by the mercies of God, to also means that the priests of God ger kerygmatic when it loses its present your bodies as a living are able to lead others into the sacrifice, holy and acceptable to sense of desperate urgency for the Lord’s presence. God, which is your SPIRITUAL sinner’s need of full salvation— now! IV. Kerygmatic Worship Must [emphasis mine] worship. Do not II. Kerygm atic W orship Must Be Worship in the Spirit. Jesus told be conformed to this world but be Feature an Evangelical Under­ the woman at the well in Samaria transformed by the renewal of standing of the Lord’s Supper. The “But the hour is coming, and now is, your mind, that you may prove Lord’s Supper is kerygma illustrated. when the true worshipers will wor­ what is the will of God, what is Too often Communion is overlooked ship the Father in spirit and truth, for good and acceptable and perfect as an invaluable means of proclaim­ such the Father seeks to worship (Rom. 12:1-2, RSV). ing and celebrating the gospel. Each him. God is spirit, and those who Spiritual worship must be placed time we celebrate the Lord’s Supper worship him must worship in spirit in a life context, a life lived as a sacri­ we remember and celebrate the and truth” (John 4:23-24, RSV). fice to God. This means even wor­ death and resurrection of our Lord Those who worship God in spirit ship in the Spirit cannot be keryg­ Jesus Christ and look forward to His are the kind of worshipers the Fa­ matic unless it is given to God within coming again. As a sacrament, it is ther seeks. We must remember the the context of a holiness life-style. A the outward sign of inward grace “prepositions of worship.” We wor­ holiness life-style of love, justice, and serves as a means of conveying ship God, th ro u g h Christ, in the Holy and mercy is kerygmatic worship at God’s preventing, justifying, and Spirit. Tom Smail has rightly pointed its best. sanctifying grace to the believer’s out that the primary function of the This is where the Corinthians ran heart. This is cause for a celebra­ Holy Spirit has nothing to do with into trouble. Their worship appeared tion. “charismatic manifestations but with to be adequately “charismatic” but So often the Lord’s Supper comes our initiation into the two central re­ failed miserably in being “keryg­ across as a “funeral for Jesus” lationships that are summed up in matic.” Not only had many failed to when it should be a celebration of the two confessions, ‘Abba, Father’ worship God from and with a holi­ the resurrection power of God man­ [Gal. 4:6], and ‘Jesus is Kurios, Lord’ ness life-style, but they had forgot­ ifest in the life of Christ with a sense [1 Cor. 12:3].” It is the Holy Spirit’s ten the “foolishness of the cross” as of His “real presence” through the job to relate us to God the Father well. They had forgotten the reality Holy Spirit. Perhaps our commemo­ and God the Son in worship and in of the Resurrection and its impli­ ration of the Lord’s Supper is too of­ acknowledgment of who they are cations for believers and had suc­ ten shared from a Maundy Thursday for us.3 It is possible to be overly ceeded in reducing the Lord’s Sup­ instead of an Easter Sunday point of interested in the Holy Spirit, and per to an occasion for unjust and view. The empty tomb and Resur­ confuse worship “in” the Spirit with hedonistic gluttony. Ironically, the rection give kerygma its power and worship “of” the Holy Spirit. Such Corinthian’s worship is often looked the Lord’s Supper its joy. confusion must surely grieve the on as an example of spiritual wor­ Holy Spirit rather than honor Him. “If ship. III. Kerygmatic Worship Must the Spirit is in effect saying, ‘Look at Feature Active Lay Involvement them, not at me,’ then to persist nev­ V. Kerygmatic Worship Is Wor­ During Worship and in Ministry. ertheless in concentrating on Him is ship in Truth. Jesus says, “Sanctify Kerygmatic worship is not just a to frustrate rather than promote them in the truth; thy word is truth” showcase for preaching, with the what He wants to do in us.”4 (John 17:17, RSV). Whatever mean­ spotlight on the pulpit and the Com­ Dr. James Packer offers this won­ ings one assigns to tru th and w ord, munion table while the remainder of derful illustration: they must in some sense mean kerygma. Kerygma— that is, the death and resurrection of Christ— is both the “word” and the “truth” of what we proclaim. The death and resurrection of Christ verifies the truth of the word. When we worship, we do so in reality of this truth. Any­ one who has experienced forgive­ ness of sin knows that only the truth of kerygma can truly set us free (John 8:31-32). This truth of God’s SEND THE GOOC Word is discovered through and pro­ claimed in kerygma. The truth of the gospel also de­ by Philip Bence mands obedience. When Jesus gave His disciples the Great Com­ mission in Matt. 28:18-20, He told them not simply to teach others “This is a day of good tidings. One print in America. You may feel that about Christ but also to teach obe­ thing is needful. The world cries for you have time only for weekly ser­ dience to Christ’s teachings. Many it. Honour claims it. Christ com­ mon preparation. Other study gets people teach about Christ. Teaching mands it. Send the good tidings squeezed out of the schedule. obedience is something different on.”1 James S. Stewart preached Stewart would disagree. Often his from simply “teaching Christianity” and lived those words. His aware­ work on the books did not fit the in the same way one might teach ness of the gospel, his desire to pro­ next Sunday’s message. But as you history or geography. Obedience to claim it, and his gift of communicat­ read his published sermons, you will the words and commandments ing it set Stewart apart as one of the see that same material sprinkled taught us by Jesus is the truth in throughout. His study paid off in his great apostles of this century. which we are sanctified. sermon preparation for years to James S. Stewart, born in Dun­ Kerygmatic worship occurs when come. dee, Scotland, 90 years ago, lives in the Body of Christ, the ambassa­ Edinburgh, his home for the past 50 Stewart’s disciplined study is one dors for Christ, gather together in years. Following pastorates in Auc- of many factors that make him a holiness and obedience to hear herarder and Aberdeen, Stewart model preacher. He was a born kerygmatic preaching, to celebrate preacher. But the gift people heard took the pulpit of the North Morn- the Lord’s Supper, and to worship ingside Church in Edinburgh. From on Sundays required hours of work God in spirit and truth. When the through the week. According to him, there he was called to be the pro­ truth of the gospel is proclaimed in fessor of New Testament at New the preacher too busy to give large the power of the Spirit, chains of sin blocks of time to sermon prepara­ College, University of Edinburgh. fall off and prisoners are set free, Whatever his official title, Stewart re­ tion is not only too busy but also ne­ hearts are filled with a longing “for a glecting the call of God. mained a preacher. Students, forget­ thousand tongues to sing our great ting the setting, often placed pen There will be subtle temptation Redeemer’s praise/’ When the and paper aside and listened in awe to scamp the work of preparation. Lord’s Supper is celebrated with a as their mentor proclaimed God’s You will be tempted to rationalize sense of His presence, joy and dox- Word. your other crowding duties into a ology express our love for the Fa­ Stewart offers much wisdom to justification for relaxing the inexo­ ther and what He has done for us in American holiness preachers. I urge rable discipline of your study- and through Christ. When Jesus’ you to find and study Stewart’s desk. . . . You are called to speak ambassadors worship in spirit and books (two on preaching, two on to men in the name of God. Dare in truth, they rejoice in the power of two key New Testament figures, and you think lightly of such an under­ the Resurrection. The church today several volumes of printed ser­ taking, or of the stern discipline of needs kerygmatic worship— wor­ mons). To whet your appetite, I offer heart and mind which it involves? ship built on the solid foundation of a few choice bites, summaries of . . . Do it vigorously and with all Jesus’ death and resurrection. $ Stewart’s thoughts on the preacher, your might and make it your great the themes of preaching, and his and serious business.2 NOTES 1. G. Friedrich, “Kerygma,” Theological Dictionary view on the deeper Christian life. The pastor must be a student and of the New Testament, 715-17. In Stewart’s mind, the pastor must a diligent preacher, but his own spiri­ 2. F. Dean Lueking, Preaching, the Art of Con­ remain a student throughout his ca­ tual walk is of greatest importance. necting God and People (Waco, Tex.: Word, 1985). The art of preaching is learning how to apply this reer. He is emphatic on this point. Stewart quotes Bishop Quayle, message to the lives of its hearers, an art that many But here, his actions quite positively “Preaching is more than preparing a are convinced is learned only through preaching itself sermon and delivering it; preaching and pastoral experience. speak louder than his words. While 3. Tom Smail, The Giving Gift (London: Hodder still in the pastorate, Stewart made is preparing a preacher and deliv­ and Stoughton, 1988), 13. time to research and write books ering him.”3 It may not take much ef­ 4. Ibid:, 31. 5. J. I. Packer, Keep in Step with the Spirit (Lei­ about Jesus and Paul— volumes fort at the desk or on knees in prayer cester, England: InterVarsity Press), 1984, 66. of such merit that they are still in to receive compliments after a ser-

46 WE CAN T HEAR YOU, PASTOR by Rolland R. Reece TIDINGS ON Akron, Ohio On some Sundays our pastor is We've also come to expect one of on a wavelength we can’t— or is it the “can’t hear” sermons if he has won’t— tune in. His head wags from had to put in an 80- to 90-hour side to side, his mouth opens and week. What he offers is a parade of closes, his lips move, but we can’t thoughts that have pain and strug- mon, but to preach messages that make out what he says. gle as their common denominator. will drive your people to their knees, It’s too bad, for he appears to be His sermon last week ruined a num- you need to have been there first. in earnest. Sweat runs down his ber of luncheons. Some of us don’t To realize, face to face with the cheeks. His arms flail the air. He take indigestion lightly, task, that it is hopeless trying to points. He pleads. He coos. He The third instance when we can’t go on unless higher hands take shouts. But none of it gets past our hear our pastor is when he speaks hold of you . . . to cry to God out eyes and ears into our heads. on giving. As soon as he pronounc- of that depth of humiliation every Across the years we have gained es the words money, tithing, sacri- day you live— this is to learn the some insight into this puzzling phe- fice , or any of their synonyms, you secret of the apostles, whose nomenon. For example, we can ex- can almost hear 300 minds clamp very weakness was turned pect to not understand our pastor if shut. Nothing is going to get into our through the alchemy of prayer he has attended a clergy conference heads until he pronounces “Amen.” into their strongest asset, whose the week before. His vocabulary will The problem, as you can see, human inadequacy itself became be sprinkled with new words and clearly lies with our pastor. He must the vehicle of the conquering phrases that deftly get to the heart learn to make complex matters sim- might of Christ.4 of our ancient faith. In all candor, we pie, to prepare sermons weeks prefer the old words; we have ahead, and to stop meddling with In his second book on preaching learned how to defend ourselves our money. By now you would think (A Faith to Proclaim), Stewart uses against them. Therefore, we stop lis- he would know how sensitive we five chapters to describe the five tening to the new words and begin are, but he doesn’t. Who must he themes that must pervade our thinking of the groceries we need to persist with these “can’t hear” ser- preaching. pick up on the way home. Anyway, mons? First is the fact o f the Incarnation. getting emotional in church is tacky. What’s a church member to do? This is not a fairy tale we have con­ ceived for our comfort. God d id be­ 1 come man. Second is the glorious truth o f for­ g ive ne ss. According to Stewart, for­ giveness, in contrast to what our power. Stewart believes the church the altar of God. So shall we have, world says today, is necessary, pos­ today struggles for survival, trying to no longer an impoverished re­ sible, and right. depend on its members and pastors ligion and a deficient moral dy­ The Incarnation was not sufficient instead of living in constant fellow­ namic, but the living and limitless to make possible our forgiveness; a ll ship with the Risen Christ. blessing in the God-created splen­ theology, all high thoughts of man, Though James Stewart never dour of its fulness.6 must center on the Cross, where the found himself on the holiness I encourage you to read James stronger Jesus forever defeated the branch of the Christian tree, he re­ Stewart. Hear his words of encour­ strong forces of evil. fused to allow believers to wallow in agement and challenge. Then “send But “without the Resurrection, their sinful habits. A sermon titled the good tidings on!” $ the Passion itself would be robbed “The Triumphant Adequacy of of meaning. Without this, the whole Christ” typifies his preaching. He NOTES Christian structure falls to pieces, surveys Paul’s tower of words “the 1. The Strong Name (New York: Charles Scrib­ and all talk of atonement is empty fulness of the blessing of the gospel ner’s Sons). of Christ” (Rom. 15:29, KJV), finish­ 2. Heralds of God (New York: Charles Scribner's words.”5 Sons). The reality of the Resurrection ing the thought with this charge: 3. Ibid. opens the door to the fifth great Away with reservations! Be 4. Ibid. 5. A Faith to Proclaim (New York: Charles Scrib­ truth. Christ is alive today. We can done with the misery of a divided ner's Sons). live our lives in the fullness of His soul. Offerthe whole sacrifice upon 6. The Strong Name.

47 WHY HOLINESS MINISTERS SHOULD READ FOSDICK by Ron Adams Associate Pastor First Church of the Nazarene Owosso, Mich.

recently finished reading a collec­ get into his services. Some of Fos- spoke as a man who had been per­ tion of all the books written by dick’s quotes and illustrations need sonally tested. He said in regard to IHarry Emerson Fosdick. In addition, to be brought up to date with the Psalm 51: I have copies of many of his radio 1980s, but the effort will be re­ The Psalmist is praying here for sermons and articles. I have come to warding. There are few today who a cleansed and empowered per­ the conclusion that many holiness approach the art of sermonizing bet­ sonality. The secret place where ministers have been missing out on ter than Fosdick. he first offered these entreaties rich resources by not reading the The criticism has been raised that must have been to him a battle­ writings of Fosdick. he wasn’t evangelical. Perhaps we field. There took place those inner Robert Moats Miller, professor of need to take a more careful look. struggles on whose issue moral history at the University of North William Hordern, a recognized evan­ purity and power depend. Prayer Carolina, Chapel Hill, writes in the gelical scholar, writes in A Laym an’s is the innermost form of the fight preface to his monumental biogra­ Guide to Protestant Theology: for character.. . . The real poverty phy of Fosdick, “In this century, The third type of liberalism is is poverty of character, and that is which rapidly draws to a close, no much closer to orthodoxy. It has due in large measure to the lack of American Protestant minister has been called Evangelical Liber­ those spiritual disciplines and fel­ exceeded the prominence of Harry alism in the sense that it retained lowships which are included in Emerson Fosdick.”1 Miller also the essential “evangel” or gospel genuine prayer.4 quotes Martin Luther King, Jr., as of Christianity. It is found in men Yes, for those who will read Fos­ saying that Fosdick was “the great­ like Harry Emerson Fosdick, W. A. dick with an eye geared for discov­ est preacher and foremost prophet Brown, Rufus Jones, and H. S. ery, they will be richly rewarded.5 $ of the century.” That level of respect Coffin. (Even) if they could not go compels us to read Fosdick. It is dif­ all the way with orthodox creeds, they could stand with the ortho­ ficult for us to approach ministry in NOTES the modern world adequately with­ dox in accepting Jesus as Lord of 1. Robert Moats Miller, Harry Emerson Fosdick: out being conversant on those who their lives.2 Preacher, Pastor, Prophet (New York: Oxford Univer­ sity Press, 1985), preface. have helped shape the 20th-century Fosdick died on October 5,1969, 2. William Hordern, A Layman's Guide to Protes­ understanding of the faith. Even at the age of 91. The N e w Y ork tant Theology (New York: Macmillan Company, when we find issues with which we Tim es carried a front page obituary 1955), 90-91. 3. Edward B. Fiske, “Harry Emerson Fosdick disagree, we are better equipped in tribute. In that extensive article the Dies,” New York Times (October 6,1969), 1 and 47. mentally because of the exercise. Tim es said that Fosdick called him­ 4. Harry Emerson Fosdick, The Meaning of Being a Christian (New York: Association Press, 1964), Fosdick was indeed a giant among self an evangelical liberal because 275. American clergy. he could not divorce himself from 5. Of Dr. Fosdick’s books, a few would be highly Fosdick was recognized as being basic evangelical doctrines like “the recommended: The Living of These Days (Autobiography) a true artist in communicating via divinity of Christ, the doctrine of im­ Riverside Sermons (or his other seven sermon the sermon. The effective use of il­ mortality and the concept of God’s books) lustrations and quotes was a hall­ indwelling presence in the world and Dear Mr. Brown: Letter to a Young Person Perplexed About Religion mark of his preaching. His sermons in man.”3 Great Voices of the Reformation (Contains a nice were so relevant to the questions A further example of Fosdick’s chapter on John Wesley) Rufus Jones Speaks to Our Times people were asking that crowds evangelical flavor is his devotion to A Book of Public Prayers used to line up around the block to spiritual disciplines like prayer. He The Meaning of Prayer THE INFLUENCE OF DUTCH ARMINIANISM ON THE THEOLOGY OF JOHN WESLEY by David Eaton Bartlesville, Okla. t is well known that John Wesley account for the common assump­ Wesley derived his Arminianism pri­ I was the chief instrument in the tion that John Wesley derived his Ar­ marily from Arminius. Methodist revival and extension of minianism directly from James Ar­ The debut in 1778 of the first part the doctrines of an evangelical Ar­ minius and other formulators of of the Arminian Magazine accounts minianism as opposed in many Dutch Arminianism known as Re­ for the second reason why many as­ points to a rigid Calvinism,” wrote monstrants. First, Wesley himself sume that Wesley’s evangelical Ar­ John Kirk,1 and subsequent judg­ contributed to this tendency in 1770 minianism was directly extracted ment would broadly ratify his view­ when he published a tract the title of from the Dutch Arminian corpus.3 In point. Yet, the statement raises which poses the poignant question, the address to the reader, Wesley questions calling for closer study. “What Is an Arminian?”2 Defending says that the aim of the magazine is What sources, for instance, served his own Arminian teachings Wesley to maintain that “God willeth all men as a “taproot” for Wesley’s “evangel­ wrote, “To say, This man is an Ar­ to be saved.” The first number ical Arminianism”? Further, to what minian, has the same effect on opens with “A Sketch of the Life of degree was Wesley directly in­ Arminius,” which Wesley introduced debted to James Arminius and with the comment: “We know of Dutch Arminianism? Or, to what ex­ nothing more proper to introduce a tent was his Arminianism derived work of this kind, than a sketch of from sources that nurtured such “To say, ‘This is an the life and death of Arminius, with views long before the term served Arminian,’ has the whom those who mention his name as an indicator for the convictions of with the utmost indignity, are com­ James Arminius? same effect on many monly quite unacquainted; of whom It will be recalled that the term Ar­ hearers as to say, they know no more than of Hermes minian refers to the doctrines of the Tresmegistus.” It is curious, how­ Dutch theologian, Jacobus Arminius ‘This is a mad dog.”’ ever, that the future contents of the (d. 1609), whose modification of Arminian Magazine, up to the time Calvinism provoked a profound cri­ of Wesley’s death, reveal no other sis of reformed doctrine in the Dutch work from either Arminius himself or and English church of the early 17th many hearers as to say, This is a from the Remonstrants. The conclu­ century. In brief, Arminius’ doctrines mad dog.’ ” Wesley knew that during sion is, therefore, that while we must can be summarized as follows: that the years in which the Calvinist- believe that Wesley was conversant Christ died for all persons (universal Arminian controversy was active in with some of Arminius’ works, he atonement), that all persons have Britain, one group or another had nowhere says that he has read any the power to believe in the atone­ chosen to identify Arminianism with of them, never cites them, and finds ment by God’s grace, and that God the aberrant doctrines of Socin- no need to use them in propogating pledged salvation to all who so be­ ianism, Deism, Arianism, as well as his own Arminianism. He is content lieve. His views rejected the high Pelagianism. Wesley goes on in the to put Arminian doctrine in his own Calvinist doctrine that God predes­ tract to name James Arminius, brief­ way or to call upon the aid of his tined all humankind to either salva­ ly outline his life history, and sum­ theological English predecessors. tion or reprobation prior to the fall of marily state and compare his views Wesley’s rare references to Adam and Eve. with Calvinism. This tract by itself James Arminius accompanied by Two factors have prevailed that leads easily to the assumption that the absence of Dutch Arminian ma­

49 terials in his publications have sent developed his Arminianism are un­ the literary expression of Estab­ mixed signals to those who are con­ covered by studying his lifelong lished Anglican Arminian pattern. In­ cerned with the roots of Wesley’s theological development—an un­ cidentally, both Wesley and Arminius Arminianism. For example, in the dertaking the magnitude of which is were avid students of patristic litera­ light of Wesley’s two publications too great for this article. We will be ture. cited above, it is not surprising that content here to offer a few sug­ On July 6, 1741, Wesley encoun­ George Croft Cell, a relatively recent gestive ideas. tered a work by the Arminian Simon Wesley scholar, claims that Wesley To begin, Wesley was born and Episcopius. A journal entry reads, developed his evangelical Arminian­ grew up in Lincolnshire, a strong­ “Looking for a book in the College ism from Arminius himself.4 Yet, in hold of Arminianism in England. In­ Library, I took down by mistake the contrast to Cell, Albert Outler, also a terestingly, the first English Baptist, works of Episcopius, which opening noted Wesley authority, cites the John Smith, who also became the upon an account of the Synod of lack of Dutch Arminian materials uti­ first Arminian Baptist, was from Lin­ Dort, I believed it might be useful to lized by Wesley as proof that Ar­ colnshire. read it through.”13 This incident minius himself was never one of Next, Wesley’s parents, Samuel marks one of the rare references of Wesley’s “really decisive sources.”5 and Susanna Wesley, as good Angli­ Wesley to a Dutch Arminian source. That Wesley was an Arminian is cans, were Arminians. When Wesley John Wesley, then, derived his well known. But, how he became Ar­ was troubled by the doctrine of pre­ Arminianism mainly from English minian is not so well known. Richard destination and wrote to his mother sources. This assertion finds sup­ Watson sheds some light on this for help at an early stage in his life port in Frank Baker’s conclusion that problem when he writes that “in (1725), she answered: “The doctrine the “evidence of Wesley’s reading doctrine Mr. Wesley was not the im­ of Predestination, as maintained by the works of the founder of the Ar­ plicit follower of any school. The Di­ rigid Calvinists, is very shocking, minian school of thought to which vines of his earliest acquaintance and ought utterly to be abhorred; Wesley himself adhered is scanty, were those of the English Arminian because it charges the most holy and it must be admitted, not abso­ class.” Watson continues, “With the God with being the Author of Sin.”9 lutely conclusive.”14 Aside from his writings of this eminent man [Ar­ Wesley later published his mother’s exposure to Grotius and Episcopius, minius] he was, we believe, only letter in the first number of the Ar­ a search through the books men­ very partially acquainted, till he had minian Magazine, in 1725 Samuel tioned by Wesley reveals no single been for many years settled in gen­ Wesley, Sr., wrote to his son at Ox­ title connected directly with any of erally similar views of evangelical ford to recommend Grotius’ com­ the Dutch Remonstrants.15 Through doctrine.6 Outler agrees with Wat­ mentaries on the Scripture.10 Grot­ the years Wesley’s Arminianism as it son when he says that Wesley de­ ius (d. 1645) was a well-known found expression in his practical rived his evangelical Arminianism Dutch Arminian who had visited En­ theology was forged under the pres­ from “the rich stratum of the English gland in the year 1613. Also in the sures and heat of the revival. His Reformation” in which he found the first number of the Arminian Maga­ theology was self-consciously Angli­ “taproot” of his theology. Probably zine Wesley printed a “Hymn to the can. He was the heir of high church as old as the English Reformation it­ Creator” by his father, which in­ Arminianism, but for a considerable self, English “Arminianism” actually cludes the lines: time he avoided the use of the term predated Arminius, but it had no No Evil can from Thee proceed; Arminian with its invidious associ­ equivalent title. Commenting on Tis only sufferd, not decreed. ations for the sake of the revival. He the same subject, Arminian scholar Another hint stems from Wesley’s sought conciliation—not conflict— A. W. Harrison agrees that what study of Peter Heylin’s Historia Quin- with his Calvinistic friends. However, came to be known as Arminianism in quarticularis, which favorably out­ Wesley more and more described the Netherlands was sui generis in lined the entire Dutch Arminian himself as an Arminian as it became England.7 Did Wesley understand controversy in relationship to Armini­ more necessary for the Wesleyan this to be the case? Yes, he did. anism in England. Heylin was an An­ Methodists to protect their interests Wesley equated Arminianism in its glican controversialist and historian. against the Calvinistic Methodists. later English development with ear­ It was here that Wesley read the No outright identification with lier English divines to the extent that names of English defenders of Ar­ Dutch Arminianism occurred until he declared it to be “the same which minianism the writings of whom he the decade of the 1770s in his later the chief of the English Reformers, later published in the Arminian Mag­ years at which time he demon­ namely, bishop Ridley, Hooper, Lati­ azine. Heylin maintained that “Old strated a shift toward a more militant mer, with archbishop Cranmer, held English Protestants” were in agree­ Arminianism. As previously noted, it from the beginning.”8 In other words, ment with Dutch Arminian theol­ was at this time that he published Wesley believed that Dutch Armini­ ogy.11 his little tract, “What Is an Armini­ anism was simply an expression of While at Oxford, Wesley studied an?” It was in this decade that Wes­ what was already existent in the the primitive Fathers whom he be­ ley seems to have concluded that no theological formulations of the En­ lieved to be at one with Arminius.12 conciliation between Calvinistic and glish Reformers. Wesley also studied William Cave’s Wesleyan methods was possible. In The question still remains as to Primitive Christianity, which emu­ 1778 Wesley fired his editorial mis­ just how Wesley came to such a lated the the kind of English “Ar­ sile, the Arminian Magazine, at his conclusion. Some hints as to how he minian” theology that contributed to (Continued on page 56)

50 Music, Martin Luther,; and Today’s Church by Anna Marie Lockard church music lecturer at Africa Nazarene Theological College Port Elizabeth, South Africa ext to theology I give the high­ liever “to praise God and give thanks ciation for the hymnal. A study of est honor to music,” wrote Lu­ for the revealed truth of His words.” hymnody will also further encourage ther. Few people have read his ser­ Although Luther is credited with them to place greater importance on Nmons, yet since the 16th centuryhaving composed only four of his hymn singing as an integral part of Martin Luther’s hymns continue to hymn tunes, he set high standards worship. Such appreciation will help be sung throughout the world. The for composition of the tunes. Be­ them become worthy leaders in the great Reformer’s outstanding musi­ cause he believed his hymns were a important ministry of music. cianship continues to touch serious vehicle of truth, Luther insisted that church musicians today. every word should be distinctly Today’s church musicians can Consider what would happen in heard and understood. learn much from Luther’s musical today’s churches if the music direc­ The Reformer’s greatest hymn, “A practices. To attract, witness, and tor would insist on congregational Mighty Fortess Is Our God,” was communicate, Luther used music to rehearsals during the week to learn written following the death of a per­ which people could readily relate. new hymns? What if churches sonal friend. Leonhard Kaiser had Churches today would benefit by would dispense of the choir alto­ been burned at the stake in the evaluating their music ministries and gether and assign all singing to the Netherlands for refusing to recant. asking themselves: congregation? Martin Luther did. After a deep depression, Luther Does the music we sing commu­ Although Luther used a variety of penned the words and composed nicate doctrinal truths? musical styles, he believed in the ef­ the music to this glorious hymn. As Do we balance music for worship ficacy of congregational hymn sing­ a hymn writer, he was driven “so that and music for witness? ing. the holy gospel which now by the Are we generating an entertain­ Today when churches share in grace of God has risen anew may be ment cult; of giving attention to congregational singing, they partake noised and spread abroad.”1 the singer rather than the song; to in Luther’s great contribution: re­ Luther’s enthusiasm for music the style rather than the mes­ turning the gift of song to the peo­ was great. He once said, “I have sage? ple. It had been more than 1,000 always loved music. Experience years since the Roman churches al­ proves that next to the Word of God Today’s minister of music must most eliminated congregational only music deserves to be extolled endeavor to balance the objective of singing. This was due to the fourth as the mistress and governess of inspiration and order with that of century Laodicean Council’s decree: the feelings of the human heart.” He meaningful witness music. Christian “If laymen are forbidden to preach had little patience with those who believers need both hymns of doc­ and interpret the Scriptures, much showed no interest in music. He trine and songs of witness for effec­ more are they forbidden to sing pub­ scoffed, “If any man despises music tive worship. Attaining these goals in licly in church.” ... for him I have no liking; for music church music will successfully iden­ However, Luther felt differently is a gift and grace of God.” Luther tify the place and function of music and said, “Let God speak to people would not allow a man to preach or in the services of worship. through the Scriptures and let the teach without a proper knowledge Finally, consider the place and re­ people respond with the singing of of the use and power of sacred spect Martin Luther gave church their hymns. I intend to make Ger­ song.2 music. Then, when you participate in man psalms for the people, spiritual Along with Luther, holiness congregational singing next Sunday, songs so that the Word of God by churches believe that music must be thank Luther for his outstanding means of song may live among the an essential part of a pastor’s train­ contribution to the world of sacred people.” His driving desire was to ing. Holiness colleges worldwide song. $ impart scriptural truths to the hearts recognize the importance of minis­ of the people through sacred song. terial candidates being grounded in NOTES 1. K. W. Osbeck, Singing with Understanding Beginning in 1523, he fulfilled this a thorough knowledge of church (Grand Rapids: Kregei Publications, 1979), 11. longing. At the age of 40, Luther music. Some seminaries in the 2. R. H. Bainton, Here I Stand: A Life of Martin launched his hymn writing career United States require candidates to Luther (New York: New American Library of World Literature, Inc., 1956). and wrote 23 of his 37 hymns. He complete a study of hymnology be­ 3. D. P. Ellsworth, Christian Music in Contem­ felt compelled to compose ver­ fore graduation. In this way, future porary Witness (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, nacular songs that would aid the be­ ministers will gain genuine appre­ 1979), 196.

51 TODAY'S BOOKS for TODAY'S PREACHER

Making Sense of the Ministry, by and will bring oneself to account. world, not by the false solution of Warren W. Wiersbe and David W. Second, the call to incorporate life, monasticism—by a desire to quit Wiersbe. Baker Book House, 155 ideas, and an inquiring mind into a life somehow or other—that is not pages, paper (PA080-109-6952; strong personal base for ministry is God’s way of keeping his people $6.95) a challenge that should provoke us (p. 8). all our days. Wiersbe says, “... the Though Lloyd-Jones does not be­ The father-and-son team clearly right kind of education raises ques­ lieve in sanctification as a second address their work to the theology tions as well as answers them.” We work of grace, he writes: student who is wanting to make the are instructed to build our lives on God does a work within us, a best use of his academic oppor­ the certainties and “exercise [our] work of purifying, of cleansing, tunities, one who is seeking to inte­ spiritual muscles on the questions.” and of purging, and this work is grate his training with his ministry. This monograph is useful for its designed to fit us for the title The book focuses on the ministerial content and for its call. The book fills which has been put upon us. We student as he prepares for his life’s a need in the study as well as in the have been adopted, taken out of work. college or seminary the world and set apart, and we George Santayana is quoted: —David L. Cox are now being conformed increas­ “The great difficulty in education is ingly to the image, the pattern, of to get experience out of ideas.” The the Lord Jesus Christ; so that we authors devalue neither education Sanctified Through the Truth, by may in truth be the people of God: nor experience but rather give prin­ Martyn Lloyd-Jones. Westchester, in reality as well as in name (p. 10). ciple and instruction to the reader in III.: Crossway Books, a Division of Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains why and coupling the two for a more effective Good News Publishers, 1989 how we can learn to live godly lives life of service. Appropriating the fruit (PA089-107-5151; $10.95) in this fallen, sinful world. It is not a of disciplines other than theology is Martyn Lloyd-Jones focused on question of trying to conquer partic­ marked as a ministry-building tool, Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer, John 17, ular sins in our own strength but of even a necessity. The book urges an to emphasize that Jesus' death was focusing our attention toward God. integration of ideas and experience not only for our salvation but also for He adds, “Our very task and calling under the divine call for a lifetime of our sanctification. Though Dr. Lloyd- demands that we must be a holy Christian service. Jones is not of the Wesleyan per­ people since we cannot represent a Though targeted at the person suasion, he has a powerful concept holy God unless we ourselves are facing his early professional life, this of holiness. He emphasizes Jesus’ holy” (p. 11). work has definite value in two re­ second petition: “Sanctify them In spite of the fact that Dr. Lloyd- spects for those engaged in ministry through thy truth: thy word is truth” Jones believes in the eternal secu­ across the years. First, there is sig­ (John 17:17, KJV). He says, rity of what we would call “former nificant benefit to be gained by grap­ His great desire is that his peo­ believers,” his strong emphasis on pling with the principles of ministry ple should be kept by God, yes, the holiness of believers is well as outlined by the Wiersbes. As one but not by being taken out of the worth one’s study in an era in which wrestles between the sometimes difficulties and problems. How the concept of holiness is increas­ opposing forces of institutional need then are they to be kept? . .. They ingly fuzzy. and human need, it is good to ana­ are to be kept by being sanctified; —Janet Adelie lyze the philosophical foundations not by being taken out of the Los Angeles, Calif. THE ARK ROCKER WITH THE mNGUARD merdley’s got two enthusiasms duce” a good worship service of some topics and announce them going these days: computers now—overhead projectors, theater at an even pace as the people pray and worship. And he has managedlighting, the salary demanded by a for themselves. Let ’em learn phys­ Sto put the two together. The gist of musicit man who can do more than iology and geography on their own! all came out in a conversation your basic choir directing and con­ Well, my five ecclesiastical pals let among the six of us who rode back gregational song leading, “not to me down on that one. Two of them to the city from preachers’ meeting mention the price of an adequate had the same problem that I had, in “Shrimp” Ragout’s van. Said sound system.” And he told us a one always used “directed prayer,” Smerdley, “Hey, man, I’ve tried ev­ very funny story about a color-blind another always called on someone erything else that seemed good and member of a quartet who kept grab­ else to pray (“People hear my voice legal. Maybe this worship thing will bing for the red mike instead of the enough; they need a change,” this work! I think I’ll go home and pro­ green one. Turned him into instant shepherd said), and another simply gram it. Boot it and see how it prints alto with an echo effect. “He was the grunted incoherently. We did agree, out.” life of the service that night, except all of us, that it would help if one of Well, “the worship thing” is what of course for the Holy Spirit!” De the offices in Mecca would call a we’d talked about in the preachers’ Nouveau said. De Nouveau recovers brainstorming session, bring in meeting—we did a lot of “shar­ well, don’t you agree? some of the “guys” who are known ing”—so we five eagerly rose to the My problem, I said with some diffi­ for their great pastoral prayer tech­ opportunity that Smerdley afforded. dence, was the pastoral prayer. The niques and maybe create something We philosophized a bit and then be­ diffidence arose from not wanting to like “One Hundred Effective Out­ gan to plan worship services. be misunderstood, and yet I felt I lines for Pastoral Prayers.” “Think of “One thing I really liked,” said had to talk to somebody about it all. the boon these would be for the Czar, whose morning worship I had run out of things to say in pastor so busy working with his crowd numbers about 300, “was the prayer, especially pastoral prayer. My people that he doesn’t know how to idea that I’m not just the preacher. wife insisted that I listen to some pray for them,” said Waphle. I’m the worship leader. That’s a good tape recordings of my pastoral Then Waphle went on to talk concept. Dim the spotlight on my job prayers. “Full of pious twaddle,” she about “the worship thing” as it had as preacher—people won’t expect unkindly said. But she was right. If I to do with his case. “I inherited a as much of the sermon. And it puts didn’t know such phrases as “in our stodgy old organist who just can’t me in control of the service. We can midst,” “the shekinah of Your pres­ get with it and create an atmosphere match the timing better. I tell you, my ence,” “our beloved Zion,” and “we for worship,” he said. “I asked her music man runs away with the thing just wanna ...” I’d have little to say. for more vibrato and some kind of —we sing all of the verses and And I don’t know what I’d do without booming bass, but she just went the organist plays the whole tune the word bless or the weekly list of glassy-eyed. I tried to tell her that I through for an introduction. It’ll give ailments. Talk about an organ recital! wanted people to come into the us more time to make the an­ We had one kid two years ago who sanctuary happy and peaceful, ex­ nouncements and do 'em with a passed a college physiology exam cited about what would follow. punch. Man, if I can sell this ‘worship simply by remembering the various These are friendly folk,’ I told her. leader’ bit to the board, then I’ll have body parts that got prayed for the They should chat a bit and get bet­ a club to hit the music folks with. previous Sunday. And another ter acquainted, and make the vis­ And I can really run the ship.” youngster passed a U.S. geography itors feel welcome. For that, we De Nouveau, who preaches to a test three weeks later on the same need light music, lively music. Stuff congregation of about 75, ex­ basis. Really, all of this is why I went that folks feel in their bones but pressed his frustration over the cost to what some are calling “directed don’t have to sit up and listen to. You of the technology needed to “pro­ prayer,” where all I have to do is think (Continued on page 56)

53 WORSHIP & PREACHING HELPS

March/April/May 1990 Prepared by Curtis Lewis, Jr.

INTRODUCTION t has been my intention to give you handles with which you can try nar­ I rative preaching. Narrative preaching, in its truest form, is simply a re­ telling of the biblical story. This type of preaching takes us back to our Jewish roots. Narrative preaching is the Christian Haggadah. The Haggadah was the use of storytelling to communicate God’s revelation to man. Christian Hag­ gadah is the retelling of the redemption story, which centers in Christ. I have focused on personalities of the Passion, moving through Lent. I have included traditional Palm Sunday and Easter sermons, then the focus returns to narrative preaching with an emphasis on life situations. Hopefully, you will find something beneficial on which to hang your preaching hat. Remember, Jesus Christ is the Center and Circumference of the biblical story. God’s best to you as you retell that story. —Curtis Lewis, Jr. HEROD ANTIPAS Luke 23:6-12; Matt. 14:1-12 March 4, 1990

INTRO: II. Herod Trifled with God (Luke 23:8) Some people behave like animals. If you compare A. Herod comes across as one of the most de­ someone with a lion, you are referring to that person as spicable characters in the Passion drama. a person of strength. When you call a child a little mon­ key, you are stating that the child is mischievous. Calling 1. Herod did not commit a major crime. He did not someone a dog, a snake, or a pig is not complimentary condemn Jesus or sentence Him to die. at all. Call a person a fox, and you speak of someone 2. He refused to take Jesus seriously. Herod came who is cunning and deceitful, clever and cowardly. face-to-face with truth. This was the most crucial en­ Jesus even referred to Herod Antipas as “that fox” counter of his life, for he stood face-to-face with the (Luke 13:31-32). In comparing Herod to a fox, Jesus Incarnate Son of God and trifled with Him. was telling us much about this man and his character. 3. Even today people commit the same sin Herod Herod Antipas was the son of Herod the Great and committed—trifling with God. Much of the popular re­ seems to have inherited his father’s paranoia. Herod An­ ligion of our time is trifling with God. The Jesus of rock tipas was a weak, cruel, sensuous man whose foolish operas and bumper stickers is not the Son of God. exploits have been recorded in history. Christ will not be trifled with. I. Herod Was a Murderer (Matt. 14:5-10) ILLUS. The stoic philosopher Epictetus complained A. John the Baptist came from the wilderness that the curious flocked from all over the world to stare preaching the message of repentance. at him as a famous person, even though they had no 1. Herod may have been fascinated with this intention of adopting his ethical precepts. Herod enter­ strange person who thundered about judgment. He tained the same position with Jesus. He thought Him a soon learned that John was no sideshow freak, but a phenomenon to be observed. There was no earnest­ preacher of Truth. Herod did not like John’s preaching. ness about his approach. Indeed, Herod came in a tri­ Having some nut come out of the wilderness into his fling, superficial, jesting fashion. court and challenge him did not please Herod. ILLUS. R. Earl Allen tells of a French preacher who III. Herod Antipas Experienced the Silence of Jesus was appointed the king’s chaplain. Shortly after the (Luke 23:9b) chaplain’s appointment, the king was taken by death. A. Jesus Christ will not be trifled with. He will be wor­ His son succeeded him. After a chapel service, some shiped, loved, adored, hated, cursed, or feared, but He men of the court came to the chaplain. “Your preaching will not be trifled with. is offensive to the new king,” they said. “If you do not 1. When men refuse to take Christ seriously He change, you may be replaced.” withdraws. He keeps silent just as He did before Herod “He is my king when I am in my home,” the chaplain Antipas, who thought he could order up a miracle for his replied. “When I stand in the pulpit, Jesus Christ, my own amusement. King of kings, is the only one to whom I must be obe­ 2. When people use the name of God irreverently, dient.” without honor, He may create a silence about himself 2. John preached against Herod’s life-style. It was and withdraw from them. preaching that displeased. (See Matt. 14:4.) This rugged B. When Jesus stood silently before Herod, the past preacher called sin sin, and Herod had him thrown into suddenly became present. prison. 1. As he questioned Jesus, Herod’s own con­ B. At a drunken feast sometime later, Herod was science accused him and found him guilty. Jesus had lured into a public promise that led to the murder of John nothing for Herod, not even a word. the Baptist. 2. Herod had silenced the voice of God. 1. Herod promised a dancing girl anything she C. Herod's demise after his encounter with Christ is wanted, and she asked for John the Baptist’s head. significant. 2. With John beheaded, Herod thought he was 1. The divorce of his first wife had provoked a war through hearing the condemning message of God. that destroyed Herod’s army. C. Rumors began reaching Herod about Jesus, and 2. When Herod went to Rome to plead for the king­ his guilty conscience wondered if this was John the ship of the Jews, he was charged with misrule and was Baptist raised from the dead. exiled to Gaul. 1. Some of the leaders of the Jews came to Jesus and warned Him that Herod would kill Him. (See Luke CONCLUSION: 13:31-33.) Herod Antipas suffered the fate of every man who 2. Jesus called Herod a fox, a predator who would attempts to trifle with the Son of God. God does not rather strike in the dark than in the light. answer him—there is nothing like the silence of God. SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER PASTORAL PRAYER: Build bridges of love. . . . IN PREPARATION Build bridges of healing. The priests of Old Testament times made prepara­ Build bridges of help. tion before they stood with the people in God’s pres­ CREATIVE WORSHIP IDEAS: ence. We, the believers of Jesus Christ, are priests in Have some of your church board members carry a that we may come directly to God in worship to the rough cross down the aisle, to be placed at the front King of Glory. Now would be an excellent time to jot of the sanctuary to remind the congregation that down your expectations for this service ... and how Lent has begun. you will offer yourself in worship. In this service: Call to Worship I expect______Holy, holy, holy great God of hosts! The whole earth I will______is full of your glory. Glory be to you! . . . PRAISING IN SONG AND SCRIPTURE Amen! (Adapted) Call to Worship Offering Sentence Hymn “Come, Thou Fount” May our offering be an act of gratitude given from Hymn “How Firm a Foundation" a thankful heart. Scripture Reading Benediction* . . . PRAISING WITH THANKSGIVING AND FAITH (Heb. 13:20, RSV, adapted) “Now may the God of Pastoral Prayer peace, who brought again from the dead Jesus the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the . . . PRESENTING TO HIM TITHES AND OFFERINGS everlasting covenant, equip you with everything . . . PARTICIPATING IN GOD’S WORD good, that you may do what is pleasing in God’s Through Music—The Choir “And Can It Be?” sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for­ Through the Preached Word “Herod Antipas” ever and ever. Amen.’’ Through Commitment ‘I am indebted to Ruth G. Duck, Flames of the Spirit (The Pilgrim Press, Benediction 1985), for the use of the adapted benedictions in this series.

The Influence of Dutch Arminianism The Ark Rocker (Continued from page 50) (Continued from page 53) opponents. It was at this time that Wesley decided to be see what I’m saying?’ Well, of course, she don’t see identified with James Arminius clearly and militantly. Yet, what I’m saying. And so I guess all of the atmosphere the extent to which Wesley really knew Arminius is not stuff is up to me.” clear. By now we were on the outskirts of our city and What kind of Arminianism was Wesley’s? Perhaps it is our discussion died. But it wasn’t arrival in the city best to give Wesley’s Arminianism the title English Ar­ that killed it. It was murdered, cruelly murdered, when minianism. This Arminianism he infused with a new spir­ Begonia, who hadn’t said a word through most of the itual dynamic—Wesley’s practical application of the trip, yawned and quoted probably the only poetry he doctrine in a crusade for the truth. knew (are the lines by Leonard Bacon?): Interpreting the simplest symbol wrong, NOTES Missing the gold and treasuring the tin, 1. John Kirk, The Mother of the Wesleys, 284. 2. John Wesley, Works (Zondervan), 10:360. Dwelling upon the trivial so long. . . . 3. Arminian Magazine, Vol. 1. That’s what killed our discussion. We couldn’t fig­ 4. George Croft Cell, The Rediscovery of John Wesley, 10. ure out to whom Begonia was referring! 5. Albert Outlet; John Wesley, 23. 6. Richard Watson, Works, 7:419. 7. A. W. Harrison, Arminianism, 122. 8. Wesley, Ecclesiastical History, 4:105. 9. Arminian Magazine, 1:37. 10. Wesley, Letters, Oxford Ed., 25:58. 11. Eaton, unpublished dissertation, “Arminianism in the Theology of John Wesley." O h k 12. Wesley, Ecclesiastical History, 6:104. 13. Journal, 2:473. 14. Baker, Proceedings of the Wesley Historical Society, Privately Published, 22:119. 15. My search on this point utilized the work of Onva K. Boshears' Ph.D. dissertation, “John Wesley, the Bookman,” and Richard P. Heitzenrater’s Ph.D. dissertation, “John Wesley and the Oxford Methodists, 1725-1735." Heitzenrater lists the books that Wesley is known to have owned and read. PILATE Mark 15:1-15 March 11, 1990

INTRO: 2. Pilate finds his answer. This Jesus is from Early in the morning the chief priests brought Jesus to Galilee—let Herod handle this mess. Christ is sent to Pilate, the Roman governor. Most of the night the San- Herod. hedrin, Judaism’s supreme court, had met illegally, and 3. Herod sends Christ back to Pilate and the ball is now here they are awakening Pilate so that he could try in Pilate’s court once again. Jesus. Pilate recognized that what was transpiring was irreg­ 4. The people are calling for the Passover gift of ular, but he was a politician and bowed to the wishes of clemency for a condemned Jewish prisoner. Pilate now the crowd. has another out. He’ll offer them a choice—Barabbas or It didn’t take Pilate long to realize that the only reason Jesus. Surely they will let Jesus go free now. Instead, they brought Jesus to him was to ask for the death they choose Barabbas. sentence. ILLUS. In October 1974, a civil court in France was Jesus and Pilate now stand face-to-face. Christ was in asked to fix the blame for the crucifixion of Jesus on control of the situation, while Pilate was unsure of him­ Pontius Pilate, therefore absolving the Jewish people of self. Pilate was a pathetic figure, a man on the spot be­ their collective guilt. The plaintiff was a lawyer named cause of the position in which he found himself. Jacques Isorni. In 1967, Isorni had published a book, The True Trial of Jesus. In it, he maintained that Jesus I. The Accusation Against Jews (vv. 3-4) was condemned and crucified under Roman law as a A. Because it is Passover, and for fear of being made guerilla leader resisting the Roman occupation, not be­ ritually unclean, the priests will not enter the house of cause He claimed to be the Son of God. Pilate. They demand that he come out on the balcony overlooking the courtyard. Pilate sees the Man whom II. Pilate’s Question they have brought and asks, “What charges are you A. Pilate’s question was pathetic. bringing against this man?” 1. The mob screams for Christ’s crucifixion. Pilate 1. According to Luke 23:2, there are three specific is just about to give in when another idea crosses his charges: mind. He’ll have this man flogged with a flagellum, a a. subversion multithonged whip knotted with metal to tear the flesh. b. opposing paying taxes to Caesar If Jesus survives, no one could want His death after that. c. claiming to be the Messiah 2. Christ is stripped and beaten, and Pilate brings 2. Pilate counters their charges and states that if Him out. The mob, now in a frenzy, cries all the more this man is so bad, they should try Him. Although it hurts intensely, “Crucify Him! Crucify Him!” their pride, the priests and the mob must respond that B. The Jews would not let Pilate set Jesus free. (See they cannot render a death verdict. John 19:12.) B. Pilate studies Jesus for a moment and then asks 1. Pilate now had to do something. When the pres­ Him point-blank, almost with amusement, “Are you the sure is on and men are faced with a choice, they react king of the Jews?” differently. Pilate was in a dilemma, and he wasn’t having 1. Christ’s answer was hardly what Pilate ex­ an easy time of it. If he set Christ free, he would be pected. Christ answers with a question, “Is this your ruined politically. The Jews had already protested to own idea, or did someone else suggest it to you?” Pilate Rome about Pilate, and now they were threatening finds himself on the hot seat now. He responds angrily, him—he either went along with them or else. “Your own countrymen and your chief priest have 2. For the Pharisees and Sadducees, this was a brought you to me. What have you done?” marriage of expediency. They wanted something from Pilate. This pressure caused Pilate to cave in. 2. Pilate seeks an answer to his question, “You are ILLUS. Someone wrote, “Pilate, you were the judge a king then?” Christ responds that “king” is the word who handled the trial of Jesus; the last legal link be­ Pilate has chosen to use; Christ has come only to wit­ tween Christ and crucifixion. We picture you as a cold, ness to the truth. Pilate asks the classic question, “What cynical agnostic who only cared to save his own skin is truth?” He stands in the presence of the One who is and reputation in Rome. You know what really bugs us, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Pilate? It’s that you showed Christ respect that day. You C. What will Pilate do in the face of the accusation declared Jesus innocent, but in the same breath you against Christ? gave Him up to die. Now history tries you!” 1. Pilate declares to the priest-led mob that he has no cause to condemn this man. They shout back, charg­ III. Pilate’s Decision (v. 15b) ing that His teaching is causing subversion among the A. Pilate let others force his decision. people of Judea, starting in Galilee and now reaching 1. Pilate’s choice was cowardly. He washed his Jerusalem. hands and declared his innocence. (See Matt. 27:24.) 2. Pilate willfully sent Jesus to death to save him­ self. SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER . . . AS WE GATHER B. Pilate’s decision cost him dearly. Call to Worship The Organ Helps Us Meditate ... 1. It cost Pilate a great friendship. He could have We Pray Silently ... had a friendship with Christ that would have lasted for Hymn “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” eternity. Invocation 2. It cost Pilate a great development. Had Pilate HOLY SPIRIT, THOU ART released Christ, he would have become a different per­ WELCOME IN THIS PLACE son. Christ would have released him completely. Choir “Be Still, My Soul” Pastoral Prayer 3. His decision cost him a great purpose. Pilate Hymn “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling” could have become part of a band of people committed A Moment for Friendship to penetrating the pagan world with God’s love. His Tithes and Our Offerings THE MINISTRY OF MUSIC C. The same decision that confronted Pilate con­ Special Music fronts us today. What will we do with Jesus? Message “Pilate” ILLUS. R. Earl Allen tells of the painting Christ Before Closing Hymn Pilate, on display in Hamilton, Ont. A rough sailor came Benediction to the door and asked, “Is Christ here? How much to see Christ? I suppose I’ll have to pay it!” He sat down in PASTORAL PRAYER: front of the painting. Eventually, he took off his hat. He Confession studied the picture for an hour. Compassion (His and ours) CREATIVE WORSHIP IDEAS: “I came here to see Christ because my mother asked Have a group of children bring a whip to the cross— me to,” he said, finally. “I never believed in such things, drape the whip around the cross beam. but the man who painted that picture, he must have Call to Worship believed it.” We lift our hearts in praise to our God this day and History still tries Jesus, and they, as Pilate, have to forever more! Amen! say, “I find no fault in Him.” Offering Sentence Let us give to help bring light to those in darkness. CONCLUSION: Benediction What happened to Pilate? Legend has it that he com­ “May the God of steadfastness and encourage­ mitted suicide in the Alps. Some believe his ghost re­ ment grant us to live in such harmony with one an­ mains restless and can still be seen walking in the snow. other, in accord with Jesus Christ, that together we History still tries Jesus, and they say, as Pilate said, “I may glorify God now and forever. Amen” (Rom. don’t find any fault with Him.” 15:5-6, RSV, adapted).

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58 BARABBAS Mark 15:1-15 March 18, 1990

INTRO: 1. He was a kind of Robin Hood. His type of activity Barabbas holds a peculiar fascination for writers. would have a kind of romance and glamor that would Christopher Marlowe and Marie Corelli have used him make him a popular hero of the people. as the basis for novels. 2. One day Barabbas’ luck ran out, and he became ILLUS. Par Lagerkvist, in his novel Barabbas, de­ the prisoner of the Romans. scribes Barabbas as about 30 years old, powerfully built with sallow complexion, a reddish beard and black hair. II. The Contrast Between Christ and Barabbas (vv. His eyebrows also black, eyes deep-set, as though 1-15) wanting to hide. Under his eye, a deep scar. Lagerkvist A. One wonders if Barabbas had ever heard of Jesus pictures Barabbas at the scene of the Crucifixion and at before that day when Christ accounted for his release. the garden tomb. He interviews those who knew Jesus 1. Perhaps he had. Legend holds that Joseph and personally and portrays his struggle with doubt. Barabbas were friends, and that Barabbas aided the Because of his brutal nature, he never fully comes to an holy family in their escape to Egypt. understanding of Christ. He eventually dies by cru­ 2. Although it is only legend, maybe Barabbas had cifixion in Rome, a victim of Nero. heard talk of Jesus as the promised Messiah. (Use the It is quite evident that this man, Barabbas, had a Sermon on the Mount to contrast the difference be­ history of sedition, robbery, and murder. Both the Jews tween Christ and Barabbas.) and the Romans knew him and understood why he was condemned as an enemy of society. B. On a certain Friday of a springtime in Jerusalem John McNeill feels that Barabbas gives us the best the jailer opened the cell where Barabbas was held and idea of the atonement of Jesus Christ—Christ the released him. substitute, dying in Barabbas’ place and in our place. 1. At first Barabbas must have thought it a joke— This man, Barabbas, has teased the minds and this word that Pilate had signed his release. Finally, it imaginations of mankind through the ages. Whoever began to dawn on him that he was a free man. Christ and whatever he was, his role in the Passion was was dying in his place. Barabbas was released, and important because Christ died for him. Christ was reviled. 2. What happened to Barabbas? No one knows. I. Barabbas Was a Convict (v. 7) The only thing that we do know is that Barabbas was A. As one begins to piece together from the four one of the sinners Christ died to save. Gospels the story of Christ’s trial, a picture of Barabbas ILLUS. John Osenham has an imaginary picture of emerges. Barabbas. At first Barabbas could think of nothing but 1. I wish we knew more about Barabbas. Solid his freedom; but then, he began to look at the man who facts are few, but enough to furnish a loom upon which died for him. Something about Jesus fascinated him, to weave a reasonable facsimile of his story. The name and he followed Christ to see the end. As he saw Jesus Barabbas means “son of father” or “son of a teacher.” bearing His cross, one thought burned in his mind: “I He possibly came from a background of respectability, should have been carrying that cross, not Him. He saved steeped in the tradition of his people. me!" 2. Somewhere something happened to change Barabbas’ life. It may have been that he suffered III. The Choice Between Barabbas and Christ (v. 15) because he was a Jew living under Roman domination. A. “Barabbas or Jesus?” Pilate asked of that first ILLUS. If Barabbas had lived in the village of Sep- Good Friday crowd. phoris, four miles north of Nazareth, about a .d . 6, he 1. The mob chose Barabbas while Christ died in would have known a Jewish patriot by the name of his place—indeed, in their place—and in the end Christ Judas of Gamala who organized a revolt and started it whispered, “Father, forgive them, for they know not off with a march on the Roman arsenal in the town. The what they do.” plan was to capture the arsenal and drive the Romans 2. Barabbas is no stranger to most of us. The only out of Galilee and Judea. The Roman commander thing is that we have answered the knock of another moved on the city, and every inhabitant was either guest. massacred or enslaved. Something like this episode B. ‘‘Barabbas or Jesus?" comes the question across could have been the thing that sent Barabbas down the the ages. wrong road. 1. It should be simple for us to make the choice; for 3. What led Barabbas into a life of crime? We do we see that Christ is invincible, His cross honored, His not know, but he threw off the restraint and became a Church universal. We glimpse far clearer than Barabbas robber and an outlaw. ever could that Christ died for us. B. Barabbas was no petty criminal, no sneak thief or 2. “Barabbas or Christ?” Barabbas is not a first pilferer. name—certain of the ancient Greek manuscripts give

59 Barabbas’ first name as Jesus. If so, the choice of the ages men have chosen the way of Barabbas and re­ mob would even be more dramatic for the mob would fused the way of Christ. shout: “Not Jesus the Nazarene, but Jesus Barabbas.” CONCLUSION: 3. The choice of the mob has been the eternal The choice is before us. If we reject Christ we come choice. It is the tragic fact of history that all through the under the judgment of God.

SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER PASTORAL PRAYER: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as Government you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with Hunger hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Hurting Rom. 15:13 (paraphrased) CREATIVE WORSHIP IDEAS: Please ... your reverence as you enter the sanctuary A group of teens should carry two large spikes to the is very much appreciated. A greeting, a smile, per­ cross, to be pounded into predrilled holes in the cross haps a handshake, and then prayer and quiet ex­ beam. pectation. Call to Worship Call to Worship Bring your songs and your praises, and let the Spirit Choral Call to Worship of God be heard in this place. Hymn “To God Be the Glory” Offering Sentence We Kneel for Prayer Pastoral Prayer When we give to our God, we share His love with the A Moment for Friendship world. Sanctuary Choir “At the Cross” Benediction Hymn “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name” “You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy We Worship nation, God’s own people, that you may declare the with His Tithes and Our Offerings wonderful deeds of God who called you out of dark­ Special Music ness into marvelous light. Go into the world; live as Message “Barabbas” God’s people, through the grace of Jesus Christ and Closing Hymn the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen” (1 Pet. 3:9, RSV, Benediction adapted, with additional material).

JUSTIN TIME THERE'S NOTHING LIKE THE- WORD OF GOD TO G E T YOU GOING IN THET AtOfSMlMG

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^ PETER John 21:15-19 March 25, 1990 INTRO: around with blazing eyes on the artist, and in a voice How would you feel if you failed your best friend at the trembling with emotion exclaimed, “You don’t love Him! time when he needed you most? What if, when the For if you did, you would have painted Him better. And if pressure was on, you swore up and down that you didn’t you don’t love Him, what right have you to touch Him at even know him? What if all of this happened right after all?” you pledged your loyalty to him? 3. This question of Jesus’ was a saving question. What if, on the day of his trial, he looked at you as you left the courtroom? It would probably be more than you Christ is offering Peter the chance to start over again. could take. You’d get out of there fast. Maybe you’ve II. There Is the Confession of Peter to Christ (vv. seen him since. You know he’s forgiven you, but you still 15&-17) have a hard time living with yourself. A. It is significant that the Greek word Peter uses for Simon Peter must have battled with those feelings. love is different from that which Christ uses. The resurrection had come and gone. Nothing had hap­ pened for several days, and time was heavy on his 1. Peter’s response was that he was Christ’s hands. Peter decided to go fishing, taking several of the friend. other disciples with him. They fished all night but caught 2. When Christ asks the question the third time, he nothing. uses the same word that Peter used. In doing this, Just as dawn began to frame the hills, the fishermen Christ is saying to Peter, “I am coming down to your level heard a voice from the beach, “Friends, haven’t you any to help you come up to My level.” fish?” “No,” they answered. The person on the beach B. Peter saw the loving heart of Christ and responds, told them to throw their nets on the other side. They did, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you” (v. and the net was soon filled. John understood. Looking 17c). at Peter, he exclaimed, “It is the Lord!” At that, Peter took 1. Christ knew the whole story, and He knew that off for shore! Peter still loved Him. Christ had made a fire, and they ate. After a while, 2. Peter is simply saying, “You know that I failed Peter and Christ went to one side for an intimate conver­ you. I blew it, but I still love you.” sation. ILLUS. Charles Spurgeon tells of visiting a woman What are some of the things that came out of this whose faith, once bright, had “gone under a cloud and conversation? suffered total eclipse.” She said to Spurgeon one day as I. The Challenge of Christ to Peter (v. 15) he visited her, “My faith is gone—I don’t have any true A. The setting of this challenge is most fascinating. love for Christ.” 1. A charcoal fire was burning. Charcoal was not Spurgeon was wise. He did not argue, but took a the ordinary fuel used in Eastern lands. Only one other piece of paper and walked to the window, writing the time in the New Testament do we read of charcoal being words, “I do not love the Lord Jesus Christ.” Bringing it used for fire, on Good Friday morning when Peter back, he handed her the pencil and said, “Sign this.” warmed himself by the charcoal fire in the courtyard of She read it and cried, “It’s not true—I’d tear it to the high priest. pieces before I'd sign it.” Spurgeon said, “You said you didn’t love Him.” 2. Burning charcoal has a peculiar aroma to it. “Yes, but I could not sign that.” Christ deliberately chose charcoal to remind Peter of “Well then,” countered Spurgeon, “I suspect you do that incident. No wonder Peter is quiet. love Him after all.” B. In the mood of that memory, Jesus took Peter “Yes, yes,” she cried, “I see it now! I do love Him— aside to challenge him. Christ knows I love Him!” 1. Jesus asked Simon Peter a simple question (v. 15). This question was asked not once, but three times. III. There Is the Commission That Christ Gave (vv. Why? Because Peter had denied Christ three times, and 15c; 16c; 17 d) Christ wants Peter to express his love three times in A. Jesus Christ, in giving this commission to Peter, is order to help rid Peter of the guilt he feels over his letting him know that He still loves and trusts him. failure. 1. Three different groups are referred to in this 2. This simple question was a searching question. commission: It probed the depths of Peter’s being. a. Beginners in the Christian faith—“Feed my ILLUS. A Russian artist painted a picture of the Last lambs.” Supper. When it was finished, being rather pleased with b. Adult followers of Christ—“Take care of my it, he took it to Tolstoy and said, “I want your opinion of sheep!” my picture: What do you think of my Christ?” And Tol­ c. Mature members of Christ’s flock—“Feed my stoy, having looked carefully at the picture, turned sheep.” 2. Peter was still trusted by Christ, and Christury. She had been living on a meager income. It was the wanted this story to help others who had also failed Christmas season, and all the other members of the Him. family were purchasing expensive gifts for each other. Her resources had been exhausted on the trip home. B. Peter did not fail, for the fourth Gospel leads on to When Christmas morning came, she had but one tiny the Book of Acts, and Peter stands like a rock all be­ present to give. When it was opened it contained only a cause of the trust Christ had in him. piece of red flannel in the shape of a heart. Attached to CONCLUSION: the heart was a note: “To my parents, I give all that I ILLUS. A young woman who had been a missionary in have—my heart.” Korea for several years returned to her home in the U.S. Jesus was asking for just such a gift from Peter. He on furlough. Her family was well-to-do and lived in lux­ asks for the same gift from you and me.

SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER PASTORAL PRAYER: God, I am grateful for this moment of quietness. Teach God as Light me the real meaning of WORSHIP. May I not be a God as Love spectator, but help me to participate in this celebra­ God as Life tion of the Lord’s Day. AMEN! LET US WORSHIP! CREATIVE WORSHIP IDEAS: THE CHOIR REMINDS US A group of your singles should bring a sign with the name PASTOR PRAYS of Jesus written in Aramaic, Greek, and Latin. WE LIFT OUR VOICES IN PRAISE AND SING Call to Worship Hymn “The Peace That Jesus Gives” We will be shouters of joy and seekers of God’s light WE WORSHIP THROUGH THE GIVING OF wherever we go. Let us praise God for this day. TITHES AND OFFERINGS Sanctuary Choir “Blessed Assurance Medley” (Marsh) Offering Sentence Hymn “Joy Unspeakable” This opportunity to give our tithes and offerings is to IT IS FAMILY ALTAR TIME share the blessings of God with others. Solo Benediction Message by the Pastor “Peter” “The love of God, the grace of Jesus Christ, and the Closing Hymn communion of the Holy Spirit be and abide with you all. Benediction Amen” (2 Cor. 13:14, KJV paraphrased). JUDAS John 13:18-30 April 1, 1990 INTRO: betrayal was not so much the act of an enemy as that of In the 1960s, a TV program called A Face for Judas a friend whose purpose was to provide his master with aired. The producer searched everywhere for the right an opportunity to get on with His work. person with the right characteristics and appearances 3. The theory is fascinating, but the Bible seems to to give him an idea of who Judas would be today. After know nothing about it. Scripture describes him as “Ju­ a futile search, the program ends with a dramatic shot das who betrayed him.” The truth about Judas is that of the producer looking into the mirror, saying, “You’ll Christ saw great potential for his use in the extension of do.” the Kingdom. His story is that of a good man who went This man, Judas, has had many theories and guesses wrong, and it is a warning against the power of evil in proposed about him. He is the epitome of treachery. human experience. Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary says his name has come to mean: “Traitor, expecially one who betrays un­ II. The Trouble with Judas der the guise of friendship.” A. Luke speaks of Judas as the one “iwho became a The daily vocabulary reflects the infamy of this tragic traitor.”That implies that he was not a traitor at the start man. Judas-colored refers to red hair, which tradition but that he became one, going from good to bad to says Judas had. A Judas tree is a purple-blossomed worst. tree believed to be the kind on which he hung himself. A 1. He was made treasurer of the group. Some feel Judas goat is an animal used to lead other animals to that Jesus and His disciples were supported by con­ slaughter. A Judas hole is a peephole in a prison door tributions from a committee in Jerusalem that disbursed that allows a person to see into the cell without being money donated by wealthy widows for the use of travel­ seen by the prisoner inside. ing rabbis. This would necessitate the appointing of a In every list of apostles, Judas was undisputed as treasurer. holder of the last position (Matt. 10:4; Mark 3:19; Luke 2. Judas had a disease called “palm itch”—be­ 6:16). Over and over again he is identified as the be­ cause of that, he couldn’t resist the temptation to dip trayer of Christ (Matt. 10:4; 26:25; 27:3; Mark 3:19; Luke into the funds. John’s Gospel calls him “a thief.” (See 6:16; John 6:71; 12:4; 18:2, 5). John 12:6a.) He was one of the 12 disciples. Imagine—the be­ 3. When Mary anointed Jesus’ feet with expensive trayer came from among our Lord’s closest friends. perfume, Judas raised a howl about waste, suggesting I. The Truth About Judas that the price of the perfume could be given to the poor A. In order to find out the truth about Judas, we need fund. Judas actually wanted the money for himself. to go to a small village south of Jerusalem in the area B. Judas was living the Legend of the Silk Thread. where the prophet Amos was born. ILLUS. One hot day a young man walked along a 1. The name of the small village was Kerioth, which dusty road, looking for a shady spot in which to rest. gives meaning to the name “Iscariot.” Iscariot simply Eventually, he came upon a towering rock. At its base means “son of Kerioth” or “citizen of Kerioth.” was the mouth of a cave. He was just about to enter 2. My parents rejoiced when I was born, especially when he noticed a beautiful woman sitting at a spinning my father, who felt that God had smiled upon him and wheel just inside. “Madam,” he said, “I am weary and blessed him abundantly by giving him a son. worn. May I rest in this cool shade?” “Surely you may,” said the woman, “if you will but let 3. At his naming ceremony he was given the name me wind about you some strands of this silken thread. “Judas,” meaning “praise of God.” He may also have Tis all I ask—just a whim of mine.” been named after one of the most famous military lead­ “Indeed, Madam,” said the man. “Wind your thread ers in Jewish history, Judas Maccabaeus. about me as I lie, and when I am rested I will snap it B. Judas had a good start in life. He was brought up asunder and go my way.” The young man lay down in in a religious home where he was taught to honor and the cool shade. As he watched, her quick fingers bound love his people, his country, and God. the thread about him. Listening to the song she sang, he 1. Judas was the only non-Galilean disciple. He went to sleep. At length he awoke and tried to rise. But hailed from Judea. He may have had a formal education, to his amazement, he found he could move neither hand and may have been a bit more sophisticated than the nor foot. The thread that wound around him was no other disciples. Judas may have felt somewhat like an longer bright like silk, but dull and drab, each coil the outsider among the tight group from Galilee. size of a rope. His companion was no longer a beautiful 2. De Quincey theorizes that Judas was not a bad woman but a hideous witch who laughed at his vain man, just a mistaken disciple. His purpose was not to endeavors to free himself. betray his master but to force Him to action. The mind 1. It is amazing what sin can do. Sin is like stepping of Judas was supposedly so enmeshed in the Messi­ out of an upstairs window—once you step, you find anic thought of the day that he never dreamed Jesus yourself dealing with a power over which you have no would be crucified. According to De Quincey, his act of control.

63 2. Judas discovered that his sin was greater thanOn the bridge over the brook he pauses for a moment he. Sin took him, an honored apostle, and made him a and, turning, looks back toward the holy city. Then he traitor. goes forward for a few paces and, again turning, halts and looks up toward the massive walls. Again he turns, III. The Tragedy of Judas and this time he does not stop. Now I can see that in his A. The tragedy of Judas can be seen in its fullest at hand he carries a rope. Up the slope of Olivet he comes the setting of the Last Supper. In this setting we see and, entering in at the gate of Gethsemane, walks under love’s appeal to Judas. the trees of the Garden. Seizing one of the low- 1. Love’s appeal can be seen in the seating ar­ branching limbs, he draws himself up into a gnarled olive rangement. The Jews did not sit at a table; they reclined. tree. Perhaps he is the proprietor of this part of the Gar­ The table was a low solid block shaped like a horse­ den and has come to gather the olives. But why bring a shoe. The host sat in the center on a single side. They rope? For a little while he is lost to my view in the tree’s reclined on the left side, resting on the left elbow, leaving springtime foilage. Then, suddenly, I see his body plum­ the right hand free to eat with. Jesus was the host, and met like a rock from the top of the tree. Yet it does not He and Judas carried on a private conversation. In order reach the ground but is suspended in midair. And there for this to happen Judas would have to be sitting on the it swings slowly to and fro at the end of the rope (from left side of Christ, the place of honor reserved for the Clarence Edward Macartney, Great Nights of the Bible, most intimate friend. Jesus must have invited Judas to Abingdon-Cokesbury, 86-87). sit by Him; that invitation was an appeal. 2. There is another appeal. For a host to offer the guest a special tidbit from the dish was also a sign of SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER special friendship. When Jesus gave the sop to Judas, it Make the most of this joyful hour! Greet those about was indicative of special affection. you and let Christian fellowship reign. 3. Love appealed again and again, yet Judas re­ Call to Worship mains unmoved. No person moves away from God but Hymn “Blessed Redeemer” what love has appealed again and again to that person. Prayer of Praise Hymn “Hallelujah for the Cross” B. Finally, Christ simply says to Judas, “What you are HOLY SPIRIT, THOU ART about to do, do quickly” (John 13:27b). WELCOME IN THIS PLACE 1. John informs us that it was night when Judas The Choir Invites Us to Pray went out (v. 30). It was a physical night, for the hour was Pastoral Prayer late. There is, however, another night here. It is always JESUS, BRING US night when a man leaves Christ to follow his own de­ THE WORD OF LIFE Sanctuary Choir “Stand Still and See His Glory” sires. His Tithes and Our Offerings 2. Judas leaves the supper in the Upper Room and THE MINISTRY OF MUSIC goes to the rulers to make his deal. Solo 3. The sign Judas would use to point Jesus out Message “Judas” was a kiss. The usual word for kiss is philien, the term Closing Hymn used when Judas promises to kiss Christ. However, Benediction when Judas comes to the garden, the word used is ka- Doxology taphilien, which means to kiss again and again with af­ PASTORAL PRAYER: fection. What mockery! Focus on God’s: C. Judas, like Peter, could have been forgiven. Peter wisdom repented, but Judas did not. Judas had remorse but no power godly sorrow that leads to repentance. When he learned guidance Jesus was condemned he was sorry and tried to give CREATIVE WORSHIP IDEAS: the betrayal money back, but the chief priest refused it. A group of young marrieds should bring a crown of Judas flung the money down and hung himself. thorns to be placed on the cross. Call to Worship CONCLUSION: Come, people of God, rejoice! Sin may lurk privately long before it goes public. Come, let us worship together! Offering Sentence ILLUS. The longest night in the history of the world is In our giving we identify with the cause of Christ. By drawing to a close. Night is passing, but day has not yet our giving we extend Christ’s kingdom to the whole come. Far to the east, over the mountains of Moab, world. there is just the faintest intimation of the coming day. Benediction The huge walls of Jerusalem and the towers and pin­ “Now to the One who is able to strengthen you ac­ nacles of the Temple are emerging from the shadows of cording to the gospel and the preaching of Jesus the night. In the half darkness and half light I can make Christ... to the only wise God, be glory forevermore out a solitary figure coming down the winding road from through Jesus Christ. Amen” (Rom. 16:25, 27, RSV, the wall of Jerusalem toward the gorge of the Kedron. adapted).

64 THE DAY G O D CRIED Luke 19:37-43 Pa lm S unday April 8, 1990

INTRO: psalm of praise. It is part of a larger group known as Have you ever thought about how many weeks have Hallel (Psalms 113—118). This psalm was an integral passed since the death of our Lord Jesus Christ? There part of Jewish life. have been more than 100,000. One hundred thousand 2. This psalm is the conqueror’s psalm. It was writ­ is a lot of anything. Even more astounding is the number ten when Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem and of days that 100,000 weeks represents. That’s 700,000 was sung when Simon Maccabees defeated the Syrians days! and also when Asa broke foreign dominion. Jesus was If one had to pick one week out of all history as the coming as God’s “anointed one,” and the people greeted most important, both historically and eternally, which Jesus with the cry, “Hosanna! Blessed is the King who one would be chosen? There is one week—or eight comes in the name of the Lord!” days, to be more specific, which would merit that cita­ tion. II. The Complaint of the Critic (v. 39) It began on a Sunday—a normal working day for the A. In the crowd were the scribes and Pharisees who Jews. We call this day “Palm Sunday,” and the events were disturbed at the emotionalism of the moment. that transpired then have changed the world. 1. They were horrified that the pilgrims would ac­ Luke gives us background of this momentous occa­ claim Jesus as king. sion. In the 19th chapter of his Gospel, we read that 2. The scribes and Pharisees asked Jesus to re­ Jesus moved resolutely toward Jerusalem, on what buke His disciples, to silence them. scholars call Christ’s Southern Campaign. From this 3. In a moment of great exultation Jesus informs moment on, the shadow of this week hangs over His the Jewish leaders that if the disciples are quieted, the ministry. In the context of this 19th chapter, Jesus is in stones would cry out. Jericho. From Jericho, Christ moves some 20 miles to Jerusalem, where news of His coming has preceded B. One cannot leave this point without noting Christ’s Him. Near the top of the Mount of Olivet, He is met by courage. His disciples, and the procession that was a fulfillment 1. Jesus was aware that He was entering hostile of Zechariah’s prophecy begins. territory—the authorities hated Him. He challenges the authorities to do their worst. There are certain things of utmost importance that 2. In His courage, Jesus claimed Kingship of the beg for attention on this Palm Sunday. heart. He came lowly and riding upon an ass. I. The Cry of the Crowd (v. 38) ILLUS. In Western culture, the ass is the brunt of A. Somewhere around the top of Mount Olivet, some jokes. But in Eastern culture, specifically in the time of people put their outer garments on the colt that had just Christ, the ass was considered a noble animal. When a been borrowed. (See vv. 29-31.) king came riding upon an ass, it was a sign that he came 1. The procession started down the western slope in peace. The horse was the mount of war; the ass was of Olivet with the disciples cheering wildly (v. 37). the mount of peace. Jesus was showing to all that He 2. The people spread their cloaks on the road (v. came, not to destroy but to love; not to condemn but to 36). This was often done when some famous person help; not in the might of arms but in the strength of love. was coming to make a visit. III. The Crying Christ (vv. 41-43) 3. Palm branches were also used (see John 12:12). A. As the procession sweeps around the brow of the The palms were symbolic of victory in conflict, with a Mount Olivet, Jerusalem burst into view. distinct flavor of war. In this context they are used with 1. Reflect on the emotion of the Son of David as He shouts of pure Messianism, indicative that the people beholds the city. had missed the purpose of Christ’s entry into Jerusa­ 2. The beast on which Jesus was riding stopped. lem. The Christ is weeping. The word Luke uses for weep 4. As the procession nears Jerusalem, the crowd means loud lamentation and deep wailing. It is the swells in number. John informs us (John 12:9) that word weeping of deep anguish. had gone ahead—the Jesus who had raised Lazarus B. The procession has stopped, and Christ issues from the dead was coming. forth with great gasping sobs. 5. Before Christ ever came in sight of the city 1. Jesus weeps because the door of religious op­ streets, lined with pilgrims, the shout of “Hosanna” (see portunity is shut. John 12:13), which means “save now,” could be heard. 2. The very ground over which Christ now travels B. The cry with which the people greeted Jesus is would rumble with the sounds of the 10th Roman Le­ illuminating. gion 30 years hence. This army would literally destroy 1. It is a quotation from Ps. 118:25-26. This is a Jerusalem.

65 3. Jesus still weeps over the future of those whothem with suspicion and sent them away. Knocking at reject and refuse Him and His redeeming love. the door of a neighboring farm, the farmer opened the CONCLUSION: door wide and welcomed the strangers into his home. Today the King of Kings and Lord of Lords is passing He sat them at a table laden with food. He gave them your way. Your King is here. bed and breakfast. Only in the morning did the farmer ILLUS. More than half a century ago, two sportsmen discover that one of the two yachtsmen was the Prince were sailing along the coast of Scotland. They anchored of Wales, later Edward V, the beloved king of England. their yacht in the harbor at Iverness and went ashore to Imagine the shame and disappointment of the first roam the beautiful countryside. They became lost and man who closed his door against his king! Imagine the could not find their way back to the harbor. At nightfall, joy and delight of the second man who opened his door they knocked on the door of a peasant’s cottage, asking to a stranger and discovered that he had received his for a meal and lodging for the night. The farmer viewed king into his house!

SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER PASTORAL PRAYER: “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord ...” Focus on God: THE KING IS COMING His mercy Call to Worship His love The Sanctuary Choir Calls Us CREATIVE WORSHIP IDEAS: to Worship “The Palms” Drape the large wooden cross in black, signifying the be­ Procession of the Palms ginning of Holy Week and the Passion of our Lord. Hymn “Crown Him with Many Crowns” Call to Worship Praise Chorus Blessed is the one who comes in God’s name. Peace CROWN HIM WITH MANY CROWNS in heaven and glory in the highest! Amen. Scripture Lesson (Old and New Testament) Have the children come down the aisle waving palm Hymn “Hallelujah! What a Savior!” branches while the choir sings “The Palms.” Children’s Choir Offering Sentence Family Altar Time In the act of giving we share in God’s creative and Special Music “The Holy City” redemptive act among men. CROWN HIM THE LORD OF LOVE Benediction Worship with His Tithes and Our Offerings “Now may our God . .. make you increase and Sanctuary Choir “Let Heaven Ring, Hosanna” abound in love to one another and to all [people and] Today’s Good News “The Day God Cried” ... establish your hearts unblamable in holiness” (1 Closing Hymn Thess. 3:11-13, RSV). Benediction “IF I SHOULD WAKE BEFORE I DIE” 1 Pet. 1:3-4 April 15, 1990 INTRO: excitement when you hear the opening words of his first A father knelt down beside his little boy’s bed. It was letter. (Read text.) We can see that praise and adoration time for prayers, hugs and kisses, and tucking in. The poured forth from Peter as he dictated these first lines of little boy began the childhood prayer he had repeated so his letter. many times before: Now I lay me down to sleep; II. Peter Informs Us That There Is Hope in the Midst I pray the Lord my soul to keep. of Hopelessness (v. 3b) If I should die before I wake A. Peter wrote at a time when there seemed to be I pray the Lord, my soul to take. little, if any, hope in the world. This time the words got mixed up. Unwittingly, the 1. This living hope of which Peter speaks can only child spoke words of the greatest wisdom. He prayed, be appreciated by those who know the bondage of fear “If I should wake before I die.” Embarrassed, he that held the people of that day captive. Life was mean­ stopped. “Oh Daddy, I got all mixed up.” Wisely, his dad ingless for the people—Sophocles felt that it was better responded tenderly, “Not at all, Son, that’s the first time not to have been born. the prayer was properly prayed. My deepest longing for 2. The Christians to whom Peter wrote had been you is that you may wake up before you die.” driven out of their homes by persecution and had given The child drifted to sleep, but the father turned the in to hopelessness. It is significant that Peter writes prophetic words about in his mind. “If I should wake about “a living hope.” There is a difference between a before I die. That’s it!” he exclaimed. “That’s the promise dead hope and a living one. The hope of the Christian is and hope of Easter. This is the time to come alive and a living hope awakened within us by the all-powerful live forever! God of the universe. Peter sounds the triumphant truth with a trumpet ILLUS. In 1938, after a visit to the Holy Land, a minis­ blast to wake up the dead in and among us. “Blessed be ter dreamed a great dream. He wanted to erect a gar­ the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his den, a place of prayer, a chapel, in his home town of great mercy we have been born anew [awakened] to a Covington, Ky. His hope was to bring the Holy Land to living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ those who would never see it in person. And so land from the dead, and to an inheritance which is imper­ was purchased, and flowers and trees were imported ishable, undefiled, and unfading” (1 Pet. 1:3-4, RSV). from 24 countries. Many individuals contributed funds I. Peter Offers Praise to God for His Powerful Act (v. to the project. There was a carpenter’s shop with tools 3) from Nazareth. A replica of the open tomb was built. A. The Greek word for “blessed” is where we get our Overlooking the entire project was a gigantic statue of English word “eulogize.” It is made up of two words, Christ, which could be seen for miles. In 1959 he meaning “well” and “to speak.” To eulogize a person opened his beautiful dream park to the public, sort of a means to speak well of him. Peter is saying in this verse, “religious Disneyland.” Almost immediately, however, the “Eulogize, or say something nice about, the God and “Garden of Hope" ran into difficulties. Most of the plants Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the Heavenly and trees died, for they could not endure Kentucky’s Father of all believers.” climate. The garden did not attract the visitors they ex­ ILLUS. A little boy came home from Sunday School, pected. Soon, it went bankrupt. For 21 years the minis­ thrilled about his lesson. He said to his mother, “I learned ter had planned and dreamed about his “Garden of something today I didn’t know before. I learned what Hope,” but his dream failed. The last time I saw the park, God’s last name is, and it’s not what Daddy said when it was a sad, tragic sight. Weeds had grown up every­ he hit his thumb with a hammer.” He then quoted, “God where. The chapel was padlocked, and the lovely statue is love,” in doing so he was eulogizing the Almighty. of Christ had fallen into a state of disrepair. The “Garden B. The fact of the Resurrection made everything new of Hope” was a failure. in Peter’s own life. For him, tragedy had been turned into B. It is a parable for us. The world seems to be run­ triumph. ning out of hope these days. There just doesn’t seem to 1. Easter had taken all of Christ’s friends by sur­ be any hope left. The missing ingredient in our time of prise. Christ had told them that He would rise from the history is HOPE! dead, but they had missed the meaning of His promise. C. The words of Peter come galloping down the cen­ And who wouldn’t? We just don’t expect the dead to turies to our darkened, fearful, hopeless hearts. We can rise. Nothing seems so permanent as death. Peter, have “hope” because of Christ’s resurrection from the caught up in the glory of the Resurrection, offers this dead. great doxology of praise to God. Christ arose! Christ ILLUS. During the Russian revolution of the early 20th had escaped death and opened new life to all men. century, a famed Communist orator moved from village 2. To Peter, the resurrection of Jesus was es­ to village expounding the good of Communism and pecially life-shaking. You can catch something of this downgrading Christianity. After his speech, he would

67 then invite “Christians” to debate, then proceed to tear I didn’t think much of it then, but as I prepared this their arguments to shreds. message, it hit me—my dad really believed in the Visiting one village just a few days before Easter, he Resurrection—he was awake, alive, and alert to God's offered to debate anyone who would accept the chal­ power. By his giving in the face of death, he was affirm­ lenge. An old farmer in the crowd lifted his hand and ing the joy of being awake before he died! My dad, in asked for permission to speak. Standing tall and erect essence, was answering the question, “Can anybody he spoke loudly and clearly the first phrase of the an­ tell us how to die?” Dad was saying, “Yes, Christ can tell cient Easter greeting, “Christ is risen!” Immediately, the us how to die and also how to live.” crowd gave the response, “He is risen indeed!” The res­ May all of us “wake” before we die! urrection of Christ brings you and me hope in the midst of hopelessness on this Easter morn. III. Peter Also Tells Us That There Is Life in the Midst SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER of Death (v. 4) A CELEBRATION OF RESURRECTION A. For Peter, the Resurrection was symbolic of life, “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was cru­ spelled with a capital L. cified. He has risen! He is not here. See the 1. Peter writes about the Christian’s final inher­ place where they laid him. But go, tell his disci­ ples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into itance. The inheritance that God guarantees is incor­ Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told ruptible, “free from corruption of any type.” you.' ” 2. The big fisherman points out the Christian’s in­ Mark 16:6-7 heritance is “undefiled.” Peter uses a Greek word de­ HE’S ALIVE! scribing a mineral that was made into a fire-resistant THERE’S LIFE IN JESUS cloth. Whenever this material got dirty, the ancients Our Pastor Reminds of Why We Are Here cleansed it by putting it into a fire, which would turn it The Choir Calls Us to Worship “Great Is Jehovah” pure white without destroying it. It is the same with the An Easter Prayer of Praise believer’s inheritance—it is undefiled, pure—there is no We Celebrate His Presence by Singing dirt on it. Hymn “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today” THERE’S POWER IN JESUS’ NAME 3. Peter goes on to say that the Christian’s inher­ It Is Open Altar Time itance is unfading—its beauty and loveliness is not af­ The Choir Calls Us to Prayer fected by the passing of time. It is reserved, protected, The Sanctuary Choir Sings “Christ the Lord Is Risen and guarded for us. Today” (Clydesdale) We Worship as We Give His Tithes and Our Offerings B. The dynamic truth of the Christian life is that we, JESUS THE RESURRECTION too, experience Resurrection. Scripture Lesson 1. Resurrection prepares men to live and to die. Special Music “Jesus the Resurrection” ILLUS. Martin Luther was born in a little German town “He’s Alive” in 1483. Sixty-three years later, after a life of serving God The Good News of Easter and bringing faith to people, he returned to the little vil­ “If I Should Wake Before I Die” lage on a preaching mission. One night he was stricken Closing Hymn “He Lives” with an illness. In great pain he cried, “O God, how I Benediction suffer!” Then he lapsed into semiconsciousness. Choral Benediction “The Hallelujah Chorus” A friend came to him and whispered in his ear, “Rever­ PASTORAL PRAYER: end Father, do you still hold to Christ and the doctrine Focus on God as Creator and Sovereign. you have preached?” Offer praise to God for His goodness. Came back the whispered reply, “Yes!” Then the great CREATIVE WORSHIP IDEAS: eyes closed, and Martin Luther, a sinner saved by grace, The cross can be draped in purple with Easter lilies went home to be with God. placed around the base. This signifies that Christ is CONCLUSION: our victorious King. Call to Worship ILLUS. When I received word that my brother had Let us praise God. been killed in Vietnam, I immediately flew home to be Let us praise our God who has filled the earth with with my family and await the return of his remains for blessings. interment. During two weeks of anxious, emotional Offering Sentence strain as we awaited the arrival of his body, a strange, Our offerings must be given as acts of love be­ yet lovely thing happened. Mrs. Lewis and I were leaving cause of the love our Lord has poured out upon us. for church. My mother was in a state of shock, and my Benediction father was staying at her side. As we started out the “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, door he handed me two tithing envelopes and said, “Be kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self- sure and place these in the offering plate. And tell the control. ... If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by pastor I plan to give to the Easter Offering” (which was the Spirit" (Gal. 5:22-23, 25, RSV). three weeks away). MARY MAGDALENE Matt. 27:61; Luke 8:1-3; John 20:16-17 April 22, 1990

INTRO: 2. The name Magdala could refer to one who As Jesus made His way to Golgotha bearing His “plaits her hair” (the term used for a woman of question­ cross, He encountered a group of weeping women— able morals). Magdala could also refer to a tower or a the women of Jerusalem. Jesus cautioned them not to fort. Magdala had its own hippodrome for entertain­ weep for Him but to weep for the coming destruction of ment, which disgusted the Jewish population The city Jerusalem. At the Cross, another group of women had an evil reputation and the rabbis claimed the city fell gathered—these were the women who mourned the because of its wickedness. Lord Jesus Christ. Mary Magdalene was in this group of 3. Who was Mary Magdalene? She was a woman women. of Magdala whose life got off track, and only Jesus Seven Marys are mentioned in the New Testament. Christ could help her put it right again. There is Mary of Jerusalem, John Mark’s mother; Mary, Cleophas’ wife; Mary, Jesus’ mother; Mary of Rome, II. When Did She Discover Christ? mentioned by Paul in Rom. 16:6; Mary, Alphaeus’ wife; A. Mary of Magdala was demon possessed. Mary, Lazarus’ sister; and Mary of Magdala. The name 1. We might smile at the mention of demons; but to Mary is a variation of the Old Testament name, Miriam. those living in Christ’s time, demonic possession was Mary Magdalene is one of the most fascinating, mys­ very real. terious, elusive women in the New Testament. She ap­ 2. In Jesus’ time, all superhuman terrors and pow­ pears in all four Gospels. She was a real flesh-and-blood ers thwarting God’s will were labeled “unclean spirits,” person. or demons. We know six things for certain about Mary Mag­ ILLUS. Studies in psychosomatic medicine indicate dalene. (1) She came from Magdala. (2) She was deliv­ that, although the terminology of the first-century world ered from demon possession by Jesus. (3) She was one may sound strange, there are nonorganic, nonphysical of a group of women disciples of Jesus Christ. (4) She causes for many illnesses today. We speak of a “spirit of was at the Cross on Good Friday. (5) She helped bury defeat” or a “bad emotional climate” as if these were Christ’s body. (6) She was the first to see Christ alive malign forces at work. Whatever the diagnosis we want after the Resurrection. to give some of the illnesses of our age, we must admit Who was this Mary? What brought her to the Cross? that some people seem to be possessed by someone or When did she meet Christ? something that controls and dominates them. I. Who She Was 3. We can be sure that as a demon-possessed A. We all know Mary Magdalene. woman, Mary of Magdala was in terrible shape. 1. She is the girl next door who decides that her 4. So grave was Mary of Magdala’s condition that family’s ideas and ideals are old-fashioned. she is described as being under the control of seven ILLUS. Mary Magdalene is the person who chooses demons. Seven demons meant that her condition was to have a fling at life and ends up without anyone’s re­ desperate! spect. “Mary Magdalene” is the boy who gets in with the B. As Jesus passed through Magdala on His way to wrong crowd and winds up with broken dreams. She’s Capernaum, Jesus encountered Mary. the woman who is an alcoholic living her life in a stupor 1. Christ answered her appeal to help her hopeless to avoid facing reality. The Magdalene is the man who, in case. a moment of weakness, embezzles the company funds, 2. She was liberated from the pernicious grip of the bringing disgrace upon himself and his family. demons that had manacled her. 2. Yes, we all know Mary Magdalene; and if she shows up at church on Sunday, most of us would raise 3. Set free from the evil spirits, Mary committed our eyebrows and mumble under our breath, “What is herself to serving Jesus wholeheartedly. She was com­ she doing here?” pletely free from the powers of destruction and death. B. Mary Magdalene—carrying that name was like III. What Brought Her to the Cross? wearing an ugly facial tattoo. A. Mary’s love for Christ brought her to the Cross 1. Mary Magdalene came from Magdala on theduring the Crucifixion. west shore of the Lake of Galilee. Magdala was the hub 1. She had journeyed to Jerusalem with Christ’s for trade routes converging from the hills and lake; it other followers. Luke indicates in chapter 8 that Mary bustled with commerce and industry. Magdala was a supported Christ—she was possibly well-to-do. Christ center of wealth in Galilee because of its boatyards, was seized in Jerusalem, and hours later He hung dying fish-curing racks, and warehouses. It was predom­ on a cross. inantly a Gentile area and offered the unsavory plea­ 2. Out of love, she followed the Man who had sures of the Roman world. Magdala was a place you changed her life. Have you ever wondered how we have never admitted being from in front of proper Jews. a record of what was said on Calvary? If all the disciples fled, with the exception of John, who was left to record what transpired? The most probable answer is that the SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER pictures and sounds of that Good Friday were pre­ PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP served by the faithful women who stayed by the Cross. As the organ begins, let quietness come. Read Matt. 5:1-12. Meditate on Hymn 13. Pray silently. Mary of Magdala was one of them. PRAISE AND WORSHIP B. Her love also led her to be first at the tomb. Pastor calls us to worship. 1. Here she encountered the risen Lord. We lift our voices and sing. Hymn “Savior, like a Shepherd, Lead Us” 2. She rushed to tell others that she had “seen the Pastor directs us in prayer. Lord.” We praise Him in song again and sing. 3. In a sense the first Christian sermon was Hymn “All the Way My Savior Leads” preached, not by a man but by a woman. PRACTICING HIS PRESENCE 4. “I have seen the Lord!” still stands as the most We present to our Living Lord, ourselves preparing for compelling piece of personal testimony, whether from a prayer—our thanksgiving and desires in prayer. The choir ministers to us. “How Majestic Is Your liberated woman from Magdala or from a famous pulpit­ Name" eer. PUTTING OUR FAITH TO WORK CONCLUSION: We present to Him His tithes and our offerings. “Were you there when they crucified my Lord?” Yes, A moment for friendship. PATTERNS FOR LIVING you were there; I was there in one whom people had Scripture Lesson dismissed as worthless. I believe she represented all Special Music humanity that day with their shattered dreams, broken TODAY FROM THE WORD homes, wasted lives, gnawing loneliness. She also rep­ Sermon “Mary Magdalene” resented all humanity not long after this when she heard Closing Hymn a voice asking, “Why are you weeping? Whom do you Benediction seek?” ILLUS. With utter sincerity, Mary Magdalene could PASTORAL PRAYER: sing John Newton’s old hymn: “Amazing grace! how Emphasize a God who will see us through. sweet the sound! / That saved a wretch like me! / 1 once Thank Him for the strength He gives. was lost, but now am found; / Was blind, but now I see.” CREATIVE WORSHIP IDEAS: Call to Worship People of God, come, let us worship together. Offering Sentence In our giving of tithes and offerings, we give our­ selves to His will and purpose. Benediction “Now may ... God ... who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, com­ fort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word" (2 Thess. 2:16-17, RSV).

70 THE FUNERAL THAT BECAME A FESTIVAL John 11:1-44 April 29, 1990

INTRO: II. Some Reactions at the Funeral That Became a The place where Jesus stayed the last week of His Festival (vv. 13-37) public ministry was Bethany. The town is still there, but A. Three reactions are expressed in this passage— it is no longer called Bethany. Today it is known as Eiza- first, there is the reaction of Martha. riya (Lazarus’ town). The name recalls the most impor­ tant event that ever happened in that little town’s 1. In Bethany, after Lazarus had died, a cry went history—Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. Even the up from the house to the streets around. Lazarus would Moslem inhabitants remember Lazarus as a local saint. be prepared for burial, dressed in a white linen gown It is at Bethany that a funeral became a festival. called a traveling dress. His body would be wrapped In this last, most dramatic sign, the One who is Life with bandages and spices. confronts death and overcomes it. This event is the 2. Four days later, Jesus was on His way to Beth­ doorway by which we enter the Passion of Jesus. It is a any. By then, the body was decaying, and there was no foretaste of the greater glory that breaks forth when hope. The sisters heard that Jesus was nearby, and Jesus steps forth in radiance and power on Resurrec­ Martha went out to meet Him. (See v. 21.) In verse 22 tion morning. Martha’s words are almost a reproof. Have you ever felt There are interesting comparisons between Jesus’ as Martha did? “Lord, where are you? Lord, you are too first miracle at Cana and His last at Bethany. The one late.” was so quiet, the other so awesome. Each took place 3. Jesus did not reprove Martha for her words. It is within the intimacy of a family circle—one a wedding, not sinful to tell God how you feel. the other a funeral. The central purpose in both miracles was that the glory of God might be manifested. The B. Where was Mary while all of this was taking place? power of the Father was made visible through the action She was back at the house, where the furniture had of the Son as He turned water into wine. The tragedy of been turned around. A group of mourners would have death was transformed into the joy of life. And in each been with her. Verse 32 gives us Mary’s response when case, faith was born or renewed. At Cana, Jesus’ disci­ she came to the place where Jesus was. The song of ples believed in Him, and at Bethany they were strength­ grief was on her lips also. ened in their faith. C. Notice how Christ reacted to all of this (v. 33). He feels the sorrow. I. A Response That Wasn’t Expected (vv. 1-16) 1. The word for “deeply moved” comes from a A. There was an emergency in Bethany at the home word that describes a horse snorting. In this context, it of Jesus’ friends, Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. implies that our Lord let out an involuntary gasp. The 1. Lazarus was very ill. The sisters sent for Jesus, breath went out of Him. Verse 35, though only two who was in the wilderness with His disciples. They were words, tells us worlds. “Jesus wept.” Tears ran down His certain Christ would come right away to heal their face. brother. (See v. 3.) 2. Here we see a picture of a God who loves us, 2. When Jesus receives the news about Lazarus, who allows us to go through the ultimate extremity, and He stops where He is (v. 4). This delay was a delay of then comes and enters our sorrow in such a way that He love. gasps. If you are hurting, He wants you to know He B. For two days Jesus goes about His work, far from weeps with you. the anguish and grief of Mary and Martha. III. The Release That Turned This Funeral into a Fes­ 1. By this time, the sisters were no doubt in a tival (vv. 38-44) frenzy. Christ finished His work and announced to the disciples that they were going to Judea. The disciples A. Jesus takes over! What a difference that makes. were aghast; the last time Christ was in Judea, the Jews 1. He commanded that the stone be removed from tried to stone Him. They asked Him if He really planned the tomb. Martha protested that the body would stink. to go to Judea. What can anyone, even Jesus, do with a decomposing 2. Jesus informed His disciples that they were go­ body? ing because Lazarus, His friend, was asleep. Finally, 2. Jesus told her that she would see the glory of Christ informed the disciples, “Lazarus is dead.” God if she would believe. The command to remove the 3. The Lord’s response was confusing to Mary and stone was obeyed. Christ called to Lazarus, “Lazarus, Martha. They couldn't understand why He hadn’t come. come forth” (v. 43, KJV). This shout is the shout of life, It is also confusing to the disciples, who can’t under­ and the one who died came out. stand why Christ is going. In verses 4 and 15 we are B. Lazarus comes forth, still bound in the old grave- given the twofold reason or Christ’s response—that the clothes. disciples might believe and for the glory of God. This will 1. Jesus gives those in the crowd an opportunity to turn a funeral into a festival. participate (v. 44). ILLUS. It will be 21 years this June that I, as a pastor, was eager to tell Fredrickson that if he hadn’t believed in have watched Jesus call men and women out of spiritual life everlasting before, he did now. He had just returned death into new life. I have never lost the wonder and from a small Minnesota town where he had attended a excitement of that kind of resurrection. But then I have funeral service for Paul Rogness, who had been struck seen loving, caring people reach out and welcome these down by a truck 10 minutes from his home, on his return people, helping them meet new friends and develop new from two years of study at Oxford as a Rhodes scholar. habits, calling forth the gifts in them, encouraging them In a moment of time, this gifted life had been tragically in discovering their ministries. They are taking off the snuffed out. graveclothes. This is part of the miracle. These are the The funeral service, however, was a great, triumphant Gary and Ginas, Harry and Sandys, etc., that represent affair. It was at the cemetery that this doctor had experi­ an amazing procession of people called out of the tomb enced the power of the Resurrection anew. Paul’s father, to discover a new family of hope, eager to help set them Alvin, conducted the committal service for his own free. But is this not the calling of a living, Spirit-filled son—scripture, prayer, and finally leading the family in a congregation? “Loose him, and let him go.” We need to favorite song, “Abide with me! fast falls the eventide. / turn the funeral we are having here into a festival. The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide! / When other helpers fail and comforts flee, / Help of the help­ CONCLUSION: less, Oh, abide with me!” As the people began to sing ILLUS. Alvin Rogness wrote a book titled Appoint­ these strong and hopeful words, they were over­ ment with Death. In it, he speaks of his son Paul’s tragic whelmed by the occasion and the presence of the Lord death and offers counsel to others. I have used that and could no longer sing. Finally it was the clear voice of book on several occasions. This week I picked up some Alvin Rogness at the head of the grave that stood out, insight from the pen of Roger Fredrickson, whom I have “Heav’n’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows enjoyed listening to and reading often. flee! / In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me!” Fredrickson tells of being in a hospital and being Our funerals will become festivals when we trust the stopped in the corridor by a doctor friend. The doctor One who is Life.

SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER PASTORAL PRAYER: God, I am grateful for this moment of quietness. Teach Forgiveness me the real meaning of WORSHIP. May I not be a spec­ Fellowship tator, but help me to participate in this celebration of Faith the Lord’s Day. AMEN. CREATIVE WORSHIP IDEAS: LET US WORSHIP Call to Worship THE CHOIR REMINDS US Sing for joy to God. PASTOR PRAYS Worship with songs and shouts of joy. WE LIFT OUR VOICES IN PRAISE AND SING Offering Sentence Hymn “Lead On, O King Eternal” As we give, we offer ourselves, confident that God A MOMENT FOR FRIENDSHIP has a purpose for us. We do this in the Spirit of Christ Sanctuary Choir “I Will Praise Him” (Stringfield/Keene) who gave His all. WORSHIP WITH TITHES AND OFFERINGS Benediction Hymn “Where He Leads I’ll Follow” “And now to [the God] who by the power at work SPECIAL MUSIC within us is able to do far more abundantly than all that Message “The Funeral That Became a Festival" we ask or think, to him be glory in the church and in Closing Hymn Christ Jesus to all generations, for ever and ever. Benediction Amen” (Eph. 3:20-21, RSV).

72 WHEN LIFE FALLS APART Matt. 14:22-32 May 6, 1990

INTRO: C. So you’re going through the storm. It’s tough sail­ Some years ago, our family discovered a children’s ing, but consider that the storm may just be in God’s will book titled Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No for you. Remember, He is Sovereign, and the One who Good, Very Bad Day. This book afforded us a lot of sent you into the storm can care for you. laughs. During the time we were enjoying this book, one of the young men in our congregation received a football II. Christ Is Praying for Me (v. 23) scholarship to MANC. On a visit home, he was telling me A. When life falls apart, we sometimes feel as if about this neat book that the football team was enjoy­ Jesus has deserted us. Where is Jesus when we’re row­ ing. It was Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No ing against the wind? He is praying for you. He has Good, Very Bad Day. never lost touch of your position. (See John 17:20.) This little boy named Alexander, who is probably B. What does His prayer for you include? about seven or eight years old, has “one of those days.” 1. That your faith won’t fail. I mean nothing goes right. He has back-to-back disap­ pointments and tragedies like you can’t imagine. It’s one 2. That you will not follow the mood of the mob, continuous “downer.” This little guy can’t win for losing. which chased after Jesus because of His miracles. He went to sleep with gum in his mouth and woke up 3. He is praying that you won’t give up and go un­ with it in his hair. When he got out of bed, he tripped over der in the storm. his skateboard, and he dropped his sweater in the sink ILLUS. If you knew that Jesus Christ was in the next while the water was running. He could tell it was going to room praying for you, would it give you new courage to be a “terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.” endure the storm and do His will? Of course it would. At After a terrible day at school, a horrible visit with the this very moment Christ is interceding for you in heaven. dentist, and a no-good stop at the shoe store, Alexander He knows your need. slumped in his chair at the supper table where his trou­ III. Christ Will Come to Me (vv. 24-26) ble continued. There were lima beans for dinner, and he hated limas. There was kissing on TV, and he hated kiss­ A. One has to admire these disciples. They could ing. His bath was too hot; he got soap in his eyes; his have turned around and headed back to shore, which marble went down the drain, and he had to wear his would have been the long way. railroad-train pajamas. He hated his railroad-train pa­ 1. These disciples had been on the Lake of Galilee jamas. When he went to bed, one brother took back the for nine hours, and they were still trying to get across pillow he said Alexander could keep. The Mickey Mouse the lake. night light burned out; the cat went to sleep with another 2. What do you think the disciples were doing? brother and not with Alexander. It had been a “terrible, 3. Do you think they were singing choruses for horrible, no good, very bad day.” nine hours? No, they were tired, wet, and cold. They At the end of the day, our little friend sighs and says, were trying to just hang on. “I think I’ll move to Australia.” Days like that tend to get us down. In our scripture lesson this morning, the disci­ B. It is midnight, and Jesus hasn’t shown. Have you ples had had one of those days. It had been a tiring day ever been there? Yet in the darkest hour, He came to of ministry and miracles. Tired, they had set out for the them walking on the lake. other side of the lake. Suddenly, a storm comes up, and 1. Jesus came to them walking on the lake. their lives began falling apart. 2. The disciples did not recognize Him. Why? What do we do when life falls apart? Our scripture There were three reasons: lesson contains five assurances to help us when every­ a. They were too busy complaining. thing around us goes wild. b. They were too busy fighting the storm in the flesh. I. Christ Brought Me Here (v. 22) c. They were not looking for Him. A. The storm came because the disciples were in God’s will. Jesus knew that the storm was raging, and IV. Christ Will Help Me Grow (vv. 29-30) He deliberately directed His disciples into the storm. A. We now have a picture of divine love meeting hu­ (They were safer in the storm in the will of God than on man need. Our attention shifts to Peter. Anyone can sit dry land with the crowd out of it.) in a boat and watch, but it takes a person of real faith to B. A careful study of God’s Word reveals that there leave the boat and walk on water. But Peter became are two kinds of storms: afraid and began to sink. 1. There are storms of correction, when God disci­ B. Let me give you four quick rules if you’re going to plines us. walk on water and grow spiritually. 2. There are storms of perfection, when Christ per­ 1. Don’t listen to the people in the boat. mits the storm to help conform us to His image. 2. Don’t look at the waves. 3. Don’t look at your feet. SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER 4. Do keep your eyes on Jesus. As we enter, we come believing—expecting and wor­ V. Christ Will See Me Through Eventually (vv. 32-34) shiping—all talking ceases as we bow in prayer. Thank What God starts, He finishes. Christ and Peter walked You, Lord! THE CHOIR DIRECTS OUR ATTENTION together back to the boat in the storm. Pastor Prays CONCLUSION: PASTOR REMINDS US ... There are five assurances in this passage that we can Hymn “Praise Him, Praise Him” count on when life falls apart. Scripture Reading A Moment for Friendship A. Christ brought me here. WE WORSHIP AS WE BRING IN GOD’S TITHES B. Christ is praying for me. AND OUR OFFERINGS Doxology of Praise C. Christ will come to me. Sanctuary Choir “It Is Well with My Soul” D. Christ will help me grow. FAMILY ALTAR TIME Hymn “Our Great Saviour” E. Christ will see me through eventually. Special Music Message “When Life Falls Apart” Closing Hymn Benediction

PASTORAL PRAYER: Thanksgiving Reconciliation Blessing CREATIVE WORSHIP IDEAS: Call to Worship With glad hearts let us join together in singing praise! Offering Sentence As we bring our gifts today, it will reflect the im­ portance of God in our lives. We return to Him a por­ tion of all He has entrusted to us. Babies presented in the service. Wedding vows could be repeated. Benediction “Rejoice in the Lord Jesus Christ always. Again, I say, rejoice. Do not be anxious about anything, but in all things by prayer and supplication with thanks­ giving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which passes all understanding will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:4-7, RSV, adapted). HOW ARE THINGS IN YOUR FAMILY? 2 Kings 4:8-26 May 13, 1990 INTRO: we can understand why Charles Wesley wrote these I remember as a boy growing up, one of the unique lines, ardent with devotion to Christ: things that we did Mother’s Day was wear flowers. I O for a thousand tongues to sing especially noticed this about my own grandmother. My great Redeemer’s praise, While her mother lived, she wore a red carnation every The glories of my God and King, Mother’s Day; after her mother died, she wore a white The triumphs of His grace! flower. Many other members of the congregation fol­ Jesus! the name that charms our fears, lowed the same ritual as they celebrated Mother’s Day. That bids our sorrows cease; Our mothers should be honored every day of the year, Tis music in the sinner’s ears; yet it is appropriate that we set aside a special Lord’s Tis life, and health, and peace. Day every May to give them the honor and recognition 2. A mother must be faithful to the sacred trust they deserve. committed to her. She can only do this by yielding com­ In order to properly focus on Mother’s Day this year, pletely to the Holy Spirit. let us look at an incident in the life of one of the towering ILLUS. The founder of Kraft Foods was an out­ figures of Old Testament history—the prophet Elisha. standing Christian. As Elisha moved throughout the land of Israel pro­ Mr. Kraft spent the last few winters of his life in Miami. claiming the Word of God, it was his custom to visit He had an invitation to address a convention in San Shunem, where a wealthy woman and her husband Francisco, and the newspapers of Miami made note of lived. This couple developed a relationship with the it. The night before he left for San Francisco, the tele­ prophet and built an additional room on to their home phone rang. A woman’s voice, filled with sadness, said, that was reserved for the prophet’s use when he was in “Mr. Kraft, I see by the paper that you are going to San the area. Francisco tomorrow. I want to ask a favor. My son is in Elisha was so impressed with the friendship and hos­ Alcatraz for life. I write him and send him gifts, but he pitality of this couple that he asked his servant what he has never responded. Would you please go see him, and could do to repay them for their kindness. They had no ask him just to write me a note?” Kraft agreed to the lady’s request. He went to the children, and Elisha called the woman to him and an­ prison and was granted permission to visit the young nounced that the child she had hoped for so long would man. He started down the corridor to where it turned be given to her by the mercy of God. A son was born a right, to the visiting room. Just as he made the turn, a year later. big hand shot out in front and clamped him by the chest, The boy grew. One day, he went bareheaded to the and a voice said, “Stand perfectly still, Mr. Kraft, don’t fields where his father and his helpers were involved in move for a moment.” Kraft said he heard a buzzing the harvest. He evidently had a sun stroke and was car­ sound—then a voice said, “OK, Mr. Kraft, you’re clean.” ried to his mother. He died in her arms. Offended, he asked, “What do you mean, ‘I’m clean?’ Grief stricken, she went to Mount Carmel, to Elisha’s Of course I am!” headquarters. The prophet saw her coming and sent “I mean,” said the guard, “that you don’t have anything Gehazi to meet her with the following question, “Are you that you should not take to the visitor’s room.” The all right? Is your husband all right? Is your child all guard told Kraft what he had in his pocket. right?” He went on down the hall thinking to himself, “Sup­ I. Are You All Right? pose Christ would stop me around the next corner and A. How are things today with you, moms? say, “ ‘Stand still, Kraft, let me see if your heart is clean 1. There is no greater honor and responsibility than inside.’ ” Said James Kraft, “I stopped where I was and that of being a wife and mother. asked God to examine me.” 2. Because of the wife and mother’s abiding influ­ II. Is Your Husband All Right? ence in the home, it is important that she be a dedicated, A. is your husband a Christian? Is he accepting re­ consistent Christian. sponsibility for the spiritual welfare of the home? 3. Mother’s Day is a good time for a spiritual inven­ 1. Have you noticed what the father did in our tory. How is everything with you spiritually, moms? scripture today? He sent the stricken child to his mother B. A mother's spirit pervades the home. (v. 19b). “Carry him to his mother.” 1. She makes time to pray for her children; to teach 2. Many fathers do precisely the same thing. They them obedience, courtesy, good manners, and to give are too busy to fulfill the promise they made when their others consideration. child was dedicated. They carry him to his mother, the ILLUS. Susannah Wesley, who bore 17 children, pastor, the Sunday School teacher, etc. made time each week to take each of those boys and B. The father’s place is with his wife and children as girls aside and counsel with them, speaking to them much as possible. about the love of Jesus. Is it any wonder that one boy in 1. It is tragic for a man to give so much time and that family became the greatest preacher of his gener­ energy to his job that his family never sees him. ation, and another son became the greatest hymn writer 2. Our families deserve “prime time.” They should in the English-speaking world? With a mother like that, never have to compete with the TV or newspaper. 3. The father is responsible before God for the wel­naire. Question 7 asked “What person has been the fare of his family. A father is a priest in his own home. greatest influence in your life?” In big bold block letters were written these two words, “My father.” Parents, if C. Christian fathers and mothers have been given the that question were asked your son or daughter, would divine responsibility of leading their families to God. they answer “My dad” or “My mom”? 1. Parents must be role models of Christian living. CONCLUSION: 2. They must demonstrate to children that God is You have been confronted this Mother’s Day with the most important reality in anyone’s life. three very important questions: ILLUS. J. Wilbur Chapman, perhaps the finest evan­ A. Are you all right? gelist the Presbyterian church has known, once used B. Is your husband all right? the following illustration in a sermon. He said that he had C. Are your children all right? just heard of a father who came into the bedroom where I trust that everything is all right. his young son lay dying. The boy had been ill for so long that his body was badly wasted. It was painful for him even to lie on the bed. As the father entered, the lad said, “Daddy, lift me up for a moment.” SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER The father put his hands under the emaciated body and raised his son just a little off the bed. “Lift me SEEKING HIM FIRST higher,” he said, “Daddy, lift me higher.” The father lifted OBEDIENCE / FAITH / PRAYER / COMMITMENT GOD’S FOREVER FAMILY GATHERS him up until he held him above his head. When he took The organ helps us to meditate ... him down, the boy was dead. It would seem as if that Pastor shares ... father had actually lifted his son into the very arms of We wait quietly in His presence ... Christ. When Dr. Chapman concluded the service, a LET US WORSHIP man came up to him with tears in his eyes and said, “Dr. The choir leads us in celebration. We lift our voices and Chapman, it happened just as you said. I went into his sing. room. My minister was with me. I lifted him up, and his Hymn “A Christian Home" weak voice came back to me in whispers saying, Pastor offers a prayer of praise. ‘Higher, Daddy, higher.’ When I took him down, he had Hymn “Faith of Our Fathers” gone. But, sir, I had lifted him into the arms of Christ long WE ARE ONE IN THE BOND OF LOVE before, for when he was a very small boy I taught him of It is family altar time. a Savior’s love, and told him what it means to be a Chris­ The choir calls us to prayer. tian.” We worship through the giving of His tithes and our offerings. III. Are Your Children All Right? The choir ministers to us. “Lead On, O King Eternal” A. Elisha is asking, “Are your children all right?” We greet one another in fellowship and extend the 1. Is everything all right with those who are near hand of friendship. and dear to you? THE WORD OF GOD ALIVE AND OPEN 2. How is everything in your home? Is there con­ Ministry of Music tinual warfare going on? Message “How Are Things in Your Family?” 3. Is discipline with love a practice at your house? Closing Hymn Do you ever tell your children no? Benediction B. What kind of a relationship do your children have PASTORAL PRAYER: with Jesus Christ? Joy / Hope / Life / Peace 1. Do you pray for and with your children? Are you CREATIVE WORSHIP IDEAS: doing all you can to lead them along a path that leads to Have your ladies lead the service. 1. A ladies’ choir life eternal? 2. Lady ushers ILLUS. One of the most fascinating stories written in 3. A lady speaker recent years is titled Question 7. It is the story of an East Call to Worship German minister’s son and a choice he is forced to With all that is within us, let us give praise and make. The young man is an accomplished pianist. The thanks to God! Communist government wants to use him for propa­ Music (Hymn 413: “Faith of Our Fathers”) ganda. He is invited to perform at a gathering. The father Change the wording from fathers to mothers and does not want the son to participate and advises him of have the congregation sing the hymn in memory of it. The Communist government sends him a Social the influence of mothers. Questionnaire, which he begins filling out. The young Offering Sentence man went to perform. Before he went on stage to play We promise that our gifts today will not be the end of the piano, he heard the announcer’s pitch: “We are our giving—we will also give our time and our talent. friendly toward the church. Our next participant proves Benediction that.” The young man remembered a plaque hanging on “May your love abound more and more, with the wall of his home, which says, “Be thou faithful unto knowledge and all understanding, so that you may death and I will give thee a crown of life.” He couldn’t go approve what is excellent, and pure and blameless on. He broke a glass and cut his hand so he couldn’t for the day of Christ, filled with the fruits of righ­ play, then he leaves and slips across the border into teousness which come through Jesus Christ, to the West Germany. His father hears of his escape and goes glory and praise of God” (Phil. 1:9-11, RSV, adapted). to the son’s room. On his desk is the social question­

76 G O D ’S RX FOR DEPRESSION 1 Kings 19:1-18 May 20, 1990

INTRO: I. God Knew That Elijah Needed to Eat Properly and Legend has it that an old man carrying a heavy bundle Get Some Rest (vv. 5-8) of sticks sank down by the roadside with a groan and A. Elijah had done a mighty work for God—he had wished he were dead. To his surprise, death appeared and asked him what he wanted. “My bundle on my back defeated the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. He had and my feet once more on the road,” said the old man also run approximately 120 miles. He was physically and quickly. Life’s roadway has many obstacles and dan­ emotionally exhausted. gers. One of the greatest of these is the ditch of depres­ 1. The man of God had been so busy caring for the sion that runs alongside. It’s easy for burdens to trip us spiritual needs of the nation that he neglected his own into this ditch, and having fallen in, we often wander physical and emotional needs. When word came to him around, helplessly trying to get out. that Jezebel was out to get him, he was so drained that Webster defines depression as “being pressed down; the situation seemed hopeless. What did he do? The gloomy, dejected, sad; to have low spirits.” He also says, great prophet of God went and sat under a tree, wishing “psychological depression is an emotional condition to die. He was in the depths of depression! characterized by discouragement and the feeling of in­ Elijah is so exhausted that he goes to sleep. He is so adequacy.” In the U.S. alone, it is conservatively esti­ physically spent that the angel of the Lord has to mated that about 200,000 people attempt suicide every awaken him twice and tell him to eat. He was strength­ year. Of these, 25,000 are successful. This means that ened by the food and then travels to Horeb. on the average, somebody tries to kill himself every 3 B. Things haven’t changed much since Elijah’s day, minutes. And once every 21 minutes somebody suc­ have they? ceeds. Most of these people are depressed and deeply 1. Many still grow weary from well doing. What be­ unhappy. In addition, millions of people who have never gan as a fun or joyful ministry becomes a grind. When contemplated or tried suicide periodically become de­ this happens, we need to examine our eating habits and pressed. The problem is so common we could say the get away for some rest. person who never becomes depressed is highly un­ 2. It is amazing at how spongy our view of the usual. body, the temple of the Holy Spirit, is. We show wisdom Because depression is demoralizing, it’s essential in respect to smoking and the drinking of alcoholic bev­ that we know how to deal with it. Home remedies are erages. Yet, we put ourselves in a premature grave by not effective. It’s useless to whistle in the dark, smile, or burning the candle at both ends. It is amazing how un­ ignore depression in the hope that it will go away. These spiritual you feel when you are weary. attempts do not work. Nor does it do any good to en­ gage in “operation bootstrap.” There may be times when 3. Step one in God’s cure for Elijah's depression we are so emotionally low we can’t reach our boot­ was for the prophet to eat properly and get some rest. straps! II. God Knew That Elijah Needed to Get His Frus­ Becoming a Christian will not automatically solve all tration Off of His Chest (vv. 9-10) our problems. Christians suffer depression. The great­ A. After Elijah arrived at the cave in Horeb, God came est example of depression in the Bible is the story of to him and said, “Elijah, tell me, what’s bothering you?” Elijah. He had been God’s spokesman for over three years, faithfully calling the nation back to God. In a dra­ 1. That was a penetrating question. Elijah re­ matic battle with the 850 prophets of Baal on Mount sponds as a typical counselee by telling his life story. He Carmel, Elijah proved conclusively he was God’s ser­ spreads all of his mixed-up feelings out before the Lord vant. God also affirmed Elijah by answering his prayer to (v. 10). send rain to break the drought. 2. Elijah poured out the venom that was poisoning As Elijah returned to Jezreel, running before Ahab’s his soul. He gave to us a workable pattern: get your chariot, Jezebel sent a sharp message to Elijah: “By frustration out in the open, and tell God and a close tomorrow at this time you will be dead. I personally guar­ friend what’s eating you. antee it.” Frightened, forgetting everything God had 3. In Psalm 102, David gives us a classical descrip­ done for him, Elijah ran 120 miles into the wilderness. tion of depression: (1) poor health; (2) shortness of life; Chapter 19 of 1 Kings describes Elijah’s dejection as he (3) unable to cope; (4) loss of appetite; (5) loneliness; (6) sat under a juniper bush in the wilderness. “It is enough! loss of poise; (7) need for recognition; (8) thoughts of Now, O Lord, take my life; for I am not better than my death. David gets it all off of his chest and a change is father.” Elijah is at the depths of depression. As we ex­ recorded in Psalm 103. amine Elijah’s situation, we discover four things to help B. God is interested in the things that bother you. We us defeat depression. must put God between us and our problem. III. God Knew That Elijah Needed a Fresh Awareness IV. God Knew That Elijah Needed to Get Back to of His Presence (vv. 11-12) Work (vv. 13-16) A. Elijah felt that God had forsaken him. A. Elijah is still complaining. God now tells Elijah two 1. Let me warn you: When you are depressed, you important things. First, cannot sense God’s presence. You’ll feel as though He 1. “Go to Damascus and anoint Hazael, king of has forsaken you. God told Elijah to go climb the moun­ Syria. Then anoint Jehu as king of Israel and finally, se­ tain, for God’s presence was about to pass by (v. 11). lect Elisha as your successor” (vv. 15-16, paraphrased). 2. First there was the wind, then an earthquake, 2. Second, God informs Elijah that he is not alone then a fire—no God. Finally, Elijah could hear a gentle (v. 18). whisper, a still small voice asking the same question, B. Like Elijah, once we have rested, verbalized our “What are you doing here, Elijah?” (See vv. 11 b-13.) frustrations, and have a fresh awareness of the pres­ B. When we are depressed, we, too, need a fresh ence of God, we must get up from our self-pity and get awareness of the personal presence and power of God back to work. We can learn from the experience of Eli­ in our lives. jah. CONCLUSION: The situation for Elijah was not hopeless, nor is it for you.

SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER THE CHURCH INTERESTING PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP Tithes and Offerings The Lord does not delight in our solemnity; this is no THE CHURCH IN THE WORD time for morbid reflections or sad, boring faces. Our Special Music God has set us free! Praise Him and let others know Morning Message “God’s RX for Depression” you serve the God of creation—the God who brings Song of Joy water to the desert, flowers to the meadow, fresh fallen Benediction snow to the mountain. He does all this and more: He takes time to love you like you have never been loved PASTORAL PRAYER: before! Hallelujah!! Praise to God for the ... Ps. 146:8b “The Lord lifts up those who are 1. gift of loving one another bowed down.” 2. ability to serve one another THE CHURCH IS PRAISING IN SONG CREATIVE WORSHIP IDEAS: Pastor Greets Us Call to Worship Hymn “Come, Thou Fount” Our God is doing a new thing! Here. Now. In the THE CHURCH GETTING ACQUAINTED midst of gathering together. Let us praise Him! “Family of God” Offering Sentence We Praise God by Singing We bring our gifts today to help share the story of Hymn “Praise Ye the Lord, the Almighty” God’s love that brings eternal life and conquers death. THE CHURCH PRAYING TOGETHER Benediction The Choir Invites Us to Pray “If any one is in Christ, that person is a new creation. Sanctuary Choir “When Answers Aren’t Enough” The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (Perkins) Walk in the newness of life. God is with you. Amen” (2 Cor. 5:17, RSV, adapted, with additional material). DORCAS Acts 9:36-43 May 27, 1990 INTRO: from being impeached. And only one vote brought Modern Joppa is located on the seacoast, 10 miles Texas, California, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington into beyond Lydda. The city is strategic in Bible history as the the Union. place from which the prophet Johah embarked when he 1. All of us can do something to bless others and ran from God (Jonah 1:1-3). improve their lives. You can’t wait until you are older or It was in Joppa that Peter received his call to go to the wiser to begin. (Use the examples of Daniel and Joseph Gentiles. As Peter is traveling, he goes to visit the saints as teenagers and their influence.) in Lydda (v. 32). There was a disciple in Lydda whose name was Dorcas—a lovely lady whose name meant 2. Now is the time to get started! Do something! gazelle, an animal characterized by grace and charm. III. There Is Something You Must Learn (v. 39c) Very unexpectedly, Dorcas died and Peter was sent A. Dorcas left something by which she would be re­ for (vv. 39-43). A marvelous miracle occurred—a resto­ membered. ration from the dead. This woman who gave herself to a 1. There is no indication that she left behind an es­ ministry of love and servanthood is restored by the hand tate. of God to her ministry of good works. 2. She left something very worthwhile—she spent On this Sunday when we issue a challenge to our her life living for others. What she left behind gave a youth, our focus will not concern itself with the miracle testimony to the love that motivated her. of restoring Dorcas to life. Instead, let us focus on Dor­ ILLUS. The story is told of William Booth, the founder cas and those qualities that the youth of our church can of the Salvation Army, who decided to send Christmas develop so that they can have an effective ministry. greetings to his Salvation Army band around the world. I. There Is Something You Must Be (v. 36a) He had to keep his message brief because of a shortage A. Dorcas was a prominent woman at Joppa, and yet of funds. Booth cut his greeting to one simple word: this is the only time her name appears in Scripture. “Others!” 1. She never speaks a word, but the testimony of B. That was Dorcas’priority. She lived to serve others. her life is very clear (v. 36). 1. This must also be your priority if you are going to 2. This woman was a humble, devout, committed make the most of life. follower of Jesus Christ. The Bible states she was a 2. Live for others and leave behind a fragrance that “disciple.” shall long bless others. B. In the eyes of the world she would not be consid­ 3. There is a part of you that will never die—your ered a success. She would not be chosen “Woman of influence will live on forever. the Year.” 4. Dorcas is an example of one who made the 1. Success for Dorcas was not fame. most of life. She leaves behind for every young person a 2. Success for Dorcas was not pleasure. pattern and a challenge that needs no improvement. 3. Success for Dorcas was not power. CONCLUSION: C. Dorcas built her life on discipleship. By doing this ILLUS. According to Jack Gullege in Ideas and Illus­ she took the first giant step in making the most of her trations for Inspirational Talks, A. J. Cronin walked down life. a country road and saw a farmer plowing his field. Cro­ nin told the man that he was so discouraged and that he II. There Is Something You Must Do (v. 36c) had decided to quit writing. Giving Cronin a hard look, A. We are told that Dorcas did good and helped the the farmer pointed at the land and told Cronin that both poor. he and his father had worked it with little to show for 1. She followed Jesus’ example by living for oth­ their labors. But, he said, he kept on plowing and plant­ ers. ing, believing, as his father had believed before him, that 2. Our Lord commended this kind of good works if he plowed and sowed long enough, someday the farm (see Mark 14:6-8a). would produce a rich harvest. B. You may think that what you can do is small and Cronin got the farmer’s drift and went back home, unimportant. What you can do is very important. took a manuscript out of the trash can, and dried it in the ILLUS. English became the national language of the oven. Although he was ill, he finished the manuscript, his United States by only one vote. Thomas Jefferson be­ first novel, Hatter's Castle, that established him as a came president of the United States, winning over writer. In 1937 he produced The Citadel; in 1941, The Aaron Burr, by only one vote. Only four electoral votes Keys of the Kingdom; in 1950, The Spanish Gardner; in brought Abraham Lincoln to the presidency. One elect­ 1956, A Thing of Beauty; in 1958, The Northern Lights; oral vote put Rutherford B. Hayes in the presidency. And and in 1961, The Judas Tree. that one vote cast for Hayes was cast by a senator who, Nothing in life comes easily. By faith and grace, work himself, had been elected on the strength of only one to make the most of life. It’s the only one you will have on vote. Only one vote saved President Andrew Johnson this earth.

79 SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER PASTORAL PRAYER: “Surely the Lord is in this place; therefore, receive with New birth meekness the Word, which is able to save.” Redemption Gen. 28:16; James 1:21 New life Share a Time of Friendship with Pastor The Holy Spirit “PRAISE BE TO YOU, O LORD" Choral Call to Worship CREATIVE WORSHIP IDEAS: Invocation It would be good for a college student who has been Hymn “I Would Be True” called into full-time Christian service to share his call. “WE PRAY IN ONE SPIRIT” If you have a youth choir feature them. (The altar is open during this time for those wishing to Let the youth of your church lead the service. pray) Call to Worship “JOYFUL, JOYFUL WE ADORE THEE” He is our joy and peace. We Worship Through the Giving of His Tithes and Our He is our salvation and hope. Offerings Come, let us worship our God. Doxology of Praise Choir Selection “My Faith Still Holds” (Marsh) Benediction Hymn “Take My Life, and Let It Be” “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace “JESUS, BRING US THE WORD OF LIFE” in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you Special Music may abound in hope” (Rom. 15:13, RSV). The Good News “Dorcas” Closing Hymn Benediction Rom. 15:13, RSV FUN-FILLED SUMMER MINISTRY!

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n o "In 1981, the disease had no name. Only symptoms. Only victims. Eventually the mention of it would trigger debate and charges of conspiracy. One thing was certain—the disease was deadly and growing."

As the AIDS epidemic spreads across the nation and the world, this deadly disease will touch the lives of nearly everyone. The Church cannot remain isolated; she must plan for ministry to victims and families.

Michael Malloy AM I MY BROTHER’S KEEPER? MICHAEL MALLOY

NO! The Positive Response to Alcohol Order from YOUR PUBLISHING HOUSE By Jerry D. H ull PA083-411-3015 S5.95 A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship

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Trees grow. Children grow. Churches This is both individual and group grow. Love grows. Knowledge grows. growth — personal growth in Christ Anticipation grows . . . GROW is a and the collective growth o f the church useful word because it describes a wide in love. range of experiences. This March, June, September, and De­ We think it is a good name for a maga­ cember publication will bring exciting zine — easy to pronounce, spell, and stories about people who are growing understand. It will call us to grow spiri­ in the Lord and about churches that are tually, intellectually, conceptually, and, growing in love. where appropriate . . . numerically. W e believe GROW is a new dimension Grow is a biblical word. We like the in evangelism resources — inspiring, way Paul uses it in Ephesians 4:15: fresh, concise, attractive, descriptive, "... speaking the truth in love, we helpful. will in all things grow up into Him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From It is our effort to grow in supporting Him the whole body, joined and held the local church — both clergy and GROW together by every supporting ligament, laity. GROW is for you — to grow in grows and builds itself up in love, as the Lord, and for your church — to IS each part does its work.” grow in love. FOR YOU

To contribute to the advancement of God’s kingdom by fostering growth in the Church of the Nazarene. To promote aggressive evangelism in all its many forms Mission throughout the denomination. of Church To create an awareness throughout the church regarding Growth the necessity for planting new churches, including Division the mission potential among cultural minorities. To increase participation and effectiveness in a reproductive ministry that is engaged in Christian mission.

GROW / Spring 1990 Mission Achievement in St. Louis and Beyond Vision for Church Plant Starts With a Business Couple and Veteran Missionaries

SHOPPING CENTER CHURCH SERVES UNIVERSITY TOWN

Columbia Community Church of the Nazarene meets at the Forum Shopping Center. Alan Lyke is founding pastor.

A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship COLUMBIA COMMUNITY CHURCH STARTS WITH NON-TRADITONAL APPROACHES

hough Columbia Community versity of Missouri, is hardly a typical Center, something like a doctor’s office Church of the Nazarene started setting for a first service. The pastor, suite. T with several nontraditional Alan Lyke, though a 1987 graduate of Columbia Community Church of components, it continues with a Nazarene Theological Seminary, started the Nazarene first met at the Campus healthy, thriving ministry. To borrow out to be a public music educator with Inn on December 6, 1986, with Dr. from Bresee, the church is in the beau­ a degree from Olivet Nazarene Univer­ Hiram E. Sanders, district superinten­ tiful morning of its existence. sity—not a conventional background dent of the Missouri District, to seek This new church is amazingly unique. for a church planter. the mind of God concerning the possi­ The vision for this gospel work started The typical age of people who make bility of beginning a second church in in the hearts of a Columbia business up the new congregation is well below Columbia, Missouri. Rev. O. K. Perkin­ couple, Gerald and Brenda Jones, and forty-five. The present ministry is built son served as convenor — a sort of in­ retired missionaries, Rev. and Mrs. around five small groups — hardly a terim pastor for the first few months. O. K. Perkinson—not ordinary home customary beginning kind of ministry. After seminary graduation in 1987, mission strategists. The first meeting, And the church meets in upscale com­ Alan and Marilyn Lyke, along with held at the Campus Inn, near the Uni­ mercial space in the Forum Shopping their three children, David, Ariana,

Bible Study and Singing: Pastor Lyke, Rev. and Mrs. Perkinscm, Marlyn Lyke, Gerald and Brenda Jones, and Lisa Clare.

I GROW / Spring 19901 Bible and Study Outline: Study guides are based on Pastor’s Gerald and Brenda Jones: Columbia business couple who helped start sermons, the church.

and Jonathan, moved to Columbia to are what spiritually hungry people seek, lead the baby church. About that time, and they appreciate it when they find it. the Perkinsons accepted a supply pas­ Pastor Lyke’s personal pilgrimage of toral assignment near St. Louis for six faith, filled with experiences preparing months, making it easy for the new him for this church-plant assignment, congregation and their beginning pas­ includes a message by Dr. Carl Clen- tor to build an immediate bond. denen, now professor at Nazarene Bible Organization of the new church took College and former superintendent of place on April 2, 1989, with 39 charter the Oregon Pacific District, during a members, and the church has an aver­ tour of the Wisconsin District. There, age worship attendance o f 72 at time of during autumn of 1981 in Appleton, publication of this issue of GROW. God used Clendenen to speak to Alan Happy relationships between Pastor Lyke, then a layman, about the Father’s Lyke, age 35, and his congregation are desire for His children to pray for obvious and beautiful. Warmth and laborers to work in the harvest for spiritual development flourish at Colum­ souls. That evening, Alan’s call to min­ bia Community Church through five istry was confirmed through a preacher small groups; three meet in homes. he never met; the rippling effect con­ Most groups discuss the scriptural tinues through this new congregation at foundation of the sermon from the Columbia. previous Sunday; the pastor prepares God is already using this new church weekly study guides for the groups. to prepare Christian university students Insightful discussions of Scripture are for His harvest in both far and near enhanced by the minister’s near-profes­ places. And who can measure this new, sional use of his 12-string guitar. This growing church’s impact on its com­ Steve Lautenschlager leads campus new congregation knows that songs of munity from now until the coming of Bible study: University student — jun­ praise, life-connected guidance from the King? ior from Liberty, MO. the Word of God, and real friendship

God is already using this new church to prepare Christian university students for His harvest.

A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship 3 i VUIIICIII GROW Is for You by Bill M. Sullivan inside front cover Vision for Church Plant in Shopping Center — Pastor Alan Lyke 1 Growth Markings and Main Points 5 What Is GROW? — Interview, Sullivan and Wiseman 7 Sister Moore Starts a Holiness Church — Pastor Rosie Moore 9 Along the Evangelist’s Trail — Evangelists Gary and Beth Bond 12 Changed Lives — Personal Evangelism Testimonies 14 New Works — Victory Report — New Church Plants 16 Prayer Retreats by Wilbur W. Brannon 19 Harvest Reports — Church Growth Research Center 23 12-Year Harvest at Harvester — Pastor Gene Grate 24 Rooted in Christ — Personal Grotvth Helps by C. S. Cowles 2 9 17 Years of Ministry in St. Louis — Pastor Nelson Hurn 32 Evangelists Directory 35 The Church Meeting Human Need — Compassionate Ministries Conference 38 The Shepherd’s Life 42 A City Waits ... Toronto — Interview, Osborne and Estep 45 Native Son Plants Church in Fulton — Pastor Gary Garrett 51 Heartline Helps the Helper by Donald R. Harvey 56 Research and Trends by Dale E. Jones 61 Revival Reports 63 Driving Force for Revival by Neil B. Wiseman inside back cover

GROW / Spring 1990 Q. You mentioned “cutting edge” Q. Give me an example. resources. W hat Is A. The priority of evangelism. The A. Yes; here in the Church Growth importance of small groups for internal Division we not only keep up with organization. The necessity of church GROW. what is happening in the Christian planting. Far from fading away, it is church at large, but we also research surprising how quickly church growth An interview between and develop strategies that are used by principles are spreading and how per­ Bill M. Sullivan, other denominations and agencies. Our vasive they are becoming. I rejoice in director of the Division Church Size Strategies are being used the amazing acceptance of church by other denominations, and Thrust to growth emphases. You know, there are of Church Growth, and the Cities is a highly successful pioneer­ entire denominations that are restoring Neil B. Wiseman, ing project of the Church Growth a commitment to evangelism as a result GROW editor______Division. of the church growth movement. Q. Bill, why are we launching a new magazine in the Church Growth Division? A. GROW isn’t a new magazine. It is a revision of UPDATE that has been a part of the Preacher’s Magazine for a dozen years. Q. But it is no longer the same publication, is it? A. It will continue to carry the beauti­ ful full-color ads that highlight denom­ inational programmatic emphases. Q. Then what do you mean by revision? Q. Why haven’t we heard more Q. If church growth principles are about this? becoming so widespread, why A. I mean an expanded publication: do you need a new magazine to Sixty-four pages of photo essays, excit­ A. Because the Church Growth Div­ promote them to Nazarenes? ing stories, "cutting edge” resources, ision has no delivery systems like the and beautiful full-color ads. Sunday School, NYI, or NWMS. We A. The Church of the Nazarene was have no publication like World Mission one of the first denominations to pro­ Q. Photo essays is a new idea, magazine, or extensive range of Sunday mulgate church growth principles. But isn’t it? School Ministry literature. Our people the coincidence of the charismatic just don’t know about the exciting movement frightened us away from A. Yes. We used it in the "THRUST projects that are being spawned in the remaining a full player in the church TO THE CITIES WITH LOVE” issue Church Growth Division. growth movement. Now we need to of the Herald of Holiness two years ago, recover the dynamics we lost a decade and then again in our General Assem­ Q. Do some people think that ago. Our new publication, GROW, is bly brochure at Indianapolis. church growth was a fad that has now passed? essential to that effort. Q. What kind of stories will GROW contain? A. Yes, but that is a mistake. A. There is an unbelievable amount of Q. In what way? mission going on in Canada and the USA. Some of the most inspiring sto­ A. The principles and practices of the ries I have heard are happening in New American church growth movement York, California, Canada, New Eng­ are well along in the process of becom­ land, and St. Louis. The list keeps get­ ing basic growth strategy assumptions, ting longer and more exciting. especially among evangelicals.

A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship 7 "I had a casual relationship to a certain church, but I didn’t have nothing — just only the name of Christianity.” —Rosie Moore Mission Achievement in St. Louis and Beyond Sister Moore Starts a Holiness Church at 53

HEART PURITY FORMS FOUNDATION FOR CHURCH PLANT

ounding Pastor Sister Rosie Moore started St* Louis New Hope Church as a Bible study in her home in 1982. Located in a quiet, changing, residential neighborhood, the Moore home is filled with love and dozens of pictures of their ten children and Ftheir families. Organized in 1985 with 38 members, including 27 new Nazarenes, the congregation has more than doubled to 87 mem­ bers. Over the church’s five-year history, 75 new Nazarenes have been received into church membership.

i A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship Pastor Moore, now 58 years of age, along with her of rules. She said, "I didn’t know sanctification was the faithful husband, Andrew, works hard to build a congre­ cleansing of the heart, but a incident came into my life that gation on a foundation of perfect love. When asked about the Lord used to show me how much I needed a clean his wife’s call to preach, Andrew Moore, retired from the heart. I heard it preached, but it never sunk in until the United States Postal Service, said, "God can do whatever need really came.” He wants to do.” Though not called to preach, he says he is Here’s her witness to a pure heart: "I was home alone called to bring the people in so they can hear the W ord of and I had a family on my mind who was going through a God. And he does. difficult time. I had been praying for them and was getting Pastor Moore tells about the beginning days of New ready to call them to try to lead them to Christ on the Hope: "W e had Bible studies on Thursday nights, and phone. But the Holy Spirit said to me, 'How can you help then the people began to ask for Sunday morning services. when you haven’t gone all the way?’ I got on my knees and Because of strict zoning regulations, I was afraid to have all asked God to fill me with the Holy Spirit, and He did. those people packed in this little house on Sunday. But I Though I was alone in the house, I got up and shouted all talked to my neighbor, and she told me the people could over the place. I was just happy in my soul.” use her driveway and the back of her house for parking. She continues, "Afterwards, when I got myself quieted The other neighbors were agreeable, too. We stepped out down, I called those people and asked them to get on the on faith — even took our furniture out into the garage extension phone and I led them to Christ. Just a few before each service. The people kept coming until they minutes after I received the fullness, I led them to Christ were sitting in the kitchen, living room, dining room, halls, —the first people I ever led to Christ. That was 27 years and even the bedrooms.” ago, and those folks are in our church With a note of thanksgiving and lin­ today. And I still thank God for a clean gering amazement, Mrs. Moore contin­ heart.” ues the account of New Hope’s begin­ The foundation for Sister Moore’s ning: "Then the people wanted to tithe "The people ministry to this day is the Scripture’s and said,' Your house is getting too small kept coming until promise of a pure heart. When asked the and we need a building.’ We opened a importance of this emphasis, she replied, bank account in the name of Neighbor­ they were sitting "A clean heart takes away the need to hood Bible Study. The first Sunday, the in the kitchen, hate and lots of our people hate. God has tithe totaled $207, and when we left out called me to teach and preach the doc­ of here to move to a building, we had living room, trine of a pure heart because it makes $6,000 plus. The Lord blessed us so we dining room, halls, such a difference. To me, it is something were able to get our own place and our that everybody has to have. It is a great own chairs.” and even in the power so you can love people even when Her conversion experience profoundly bedrooms.” you cannot love what they do. Real holi­ impacts her preaching and pastoral lead­ ness is not an abstinence from doing ership. Virginia Moss, a white co-worker things — it is a heart condition.” from Arkansas, introduced Rosie Moore Pastor Moore expects to complete the to vital faith in Christ. In those days, the ministry course of study so she can be Moore family lived in a St. Louis housing ordained soon, hopefully this year. Two project. Sister Moore, describing that wonderful event, pastors, Rev. James Heckathorn and Rev. Gerald Vaught, said, "I don’t speak color, but it was so unusual for a white have especially mentored both Brother and Sister Moore woman to be as close to me as she was. Virginia Moss in working their way through the course of study together. began talking to me about the Lord — she had recently With appreciation, Rosie Moore said, "I haven’t had the been saved. I had a casual relationship to a certain church, schooling, but my whole life has been my teacher. And but I didn’t have nothing — just only the name of now, caring pastors are helping me learn a lot of things I Christianity.” really need — the Lord knows I need them.” She hopes In a few weeks, Virginia Moss introduced Rosie to Pastor District Superintendent Hiram Sanders and Pastors Heck­ Udell Moss (no family relation). Rev. Moss, then pastor athorn and Vaught will take a vital part in her ordination of the Ferguson Church, explained the way of salvation as service. Mrs. Moore remembers it, "Brother Moss opened the Today, a church grows in St. Louis because a co-worker Bible up before me and he began to show me the way to witnessed to Rosie Moore, a faithful pastor showed her Christ. It was what I needed in my life. I didn’t understand the way to salvation, and she hungered and sought for the all of it, but the Lord really forgave me. It seemed like my fullness. whole life ran before me like a newspaper print. That was Sister Moore closed the interview with two powerful 29 years ago and it is still good.” sentences: "I have a special love for the church because it Soon Rosie Moore was introduced to holiness teaching, taught me what real holiness does. That is what God has but she thought sanctification meant plain dress and a list called me to preach.”

10 GROW / Spring 1990 ■ EVANGELISM MINISTRIES Lead Your Church Through a Pre-Easter Spiritual Inventory

In His Steps— with Love is a week-long emphasis to stimulate your peo pie to live Christ-centered lives. The seven-day Christian growth experi ence is a true spiritual adventure. The resources include:

• Video: In His Steps . . . What Would Jesus Do? is a kickoff re­ source that dramatically highlights the need for love and caring.

• Guidebook: An attractive 38-page booklet for each participant. This is a seven-day manual for spiritual adventure that provides morning and evening readings, self-rating charts, personal planning outlines, and more.

• Promotional and implementation materials include bulletin in­ serts, posters, etc.

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WHAT WOULD JESUS DO? ...... saa-sag-'...... is a worthy question. The answer can » i "#1 provide any congregation with a dramatic concern for Christian mission and action. said. "Please pray for me!” The next evening, Beth counseled A long the with this young woman. Her great po­ tential and talent were obvious, yet she was consumed with guilt over the sins she’d committed at such a young age. Evangelist’s Trail Beth shared the blessed promises of God’s forgiveness and the blotting out of all her sins. Then she shared one of Four weeks of ministry in the lives of her favorite verses: "But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and straining Gary and Beth Bond toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which G od From the beginning of the Church of the Nazarene, evangelists have moved has called me heavenward in Christ from church to church and place to place to challenge the church to revival, Jesus” (Philippians3:13-14, NIV). That weekend, the young woman knelt at evangelism, and serious discipleship. Many of our people trace the signif­ the altar and prayed her way to victory. icant spiritual happenings in their lives to revivals, campmeetings and On Sunday evening, she gave us her holiness crusades. The work continues through people like Gary and Beth written testimony in the hope that Bond. Here’s their story, as told by Evangelist Gary Bond. others would be helped. She asked to remain anonymous. Here is what she wrote:

"I’ve grown up in and around the church. I have great parents who taught me wrong from right. They taught me all about Jesus Christ and how He could be my Savior. But for some reason I didn’t want all that 'salvation nonsense.’ So I went my own way, getting involved in drinking and premarital sex, all the time keeping it secret from my wonderful parents.

"But I couldn’t keep my secrets from God. He made me realize that Beth Bond, commissioned song evangelist, and Gary C. Bond, commis- my older boyfriend was only after sioned evangelist and song evangelist. Children: Joy, 7, and Julie, 11. one thing. Meantime, I turned my life over to Jesus Christ and ac­ cepted Him as my personal Savior. Still, I felt something was wrong. I KOKOMO, INDIANA have felt guilty, angry, and con­ fused for almost a year now.

Multicolored, bright autumn leaves had laid a solid foundation of prayer, "O n e evening I was on my way to a paving the way of God’s Spirit. What swirled about us as we stepped out of party where I would find myself in our motorhome into the warmth of a freedom we enjoyed in message and the same predicament; instead, I typical Indiana "Indian Summer.” Add­ song! What obedience to the Lord, evi­ came to the revival meeting. I dent in the response of the people! ing warmth of another kind was the learned that God has forgiven and enthusiastic welcome from newlyweds Praying had been for specific people forgotten my awful sins. But I and for specific needs in the lives of Rev. Verdean and Marjorie (Jantz) needed to forgive myself and my those people. Owens, married just one month. Beth ex-boyfriend.” and I knew them well, having previ­ I preached one evening about four ously conducted several revival meet­ pitfalls common to people today which ings for Pastor Owens, and as co-labor- the nation of Israel experienced. While ers with Marjorie, who traveled the Beth played a gospel song for the altar Another teenager, Tina, was on pro­ evangelism road for 33 years. call, a teenage girl slipped a torn piece bation and was required to be in the Evangelists can immediately sense it o f paper into her hand. Later that night, company of her parents at all times. when a church has prepared for revival. we read the scrap of paper together. Her life had been ruined by drugs, Kokomo First Church of the Nazarene "He was speaking about me tonight,” it dishonesty, and immorality. The

12 GROW / Spring 1990 church prayed fervently for her, and their regular prayer time. Terry Phares, good friends, the Rev. and Mrs. E. L. Tina received the Lord Jesus Christ at attendance and enlistment chairman, Wisehart, are pastoring. This church that weekend revival. encouraged the lay people to pray for had prepared for revival through weeks We left Kokomo rejoicing! If our 50 prospective families, building friend­ of home prayer meetings and prayer week there was Indian Summer, we ships and making contact with them breakfasts. were now in the midst of premature weekly. Karen Phillips, the pastor’s Some of the outstanding results in­ winter, the snow swirling around our daughter, is staff youth minister. She cluded Jim, a truck driver who, con­ motorhome windows. Beth moaned and the teens distributed 500 revival cerned about areas of his life he knew that she’d left everyone’s boots and flyers. Milton Freed taught a class for were not under God’s leadership, had gloves at home, but our girls, Julie and altar workers and was ready to disciple been counseling with Pastor Wisehart. Joy, hopped up and down and clapped new converts with Bible studies. Victo­ He was sanctified the very first night of their hands. Sometimes E.K.s (evangel­ ries followed in the wake of their tho­ the revival meeting. ists’ kids) think they "have it pretty rough preparations. Julie, the daughter of agnostic par­ good.” Not every child gets to attend As soon as I gave the altar invitation ents, was another trophy of God’s school in his or her pajamas! At Terre Tuesday evening, Rick Stratton stepped grace. Now the mother of four children Haute, our next stop, they also would forward. The evangelism team had vis­ of her own, she felt the importance of have a church gym in which to skate ited him in his home the week before knowing the truth and, with all her and play ball after home-schooling was the revival and shared the gospel with doubts and questions, came seeking. completed each day. his wife, Cathy, who prayed and re­ G od met the needs o f her heart and the ceived assurance of salvation. By Tues­ troubling issues and questions were day evening, Rick was ready to receive resolved. TERRE HAUTE, INDIANA Christ. Layman Willy Watt was working One of the 50 families targeted in with other electricians, installing cables In this western Indiana city on the prayer by the Cedar Rapids Oakland in a trench when, to their horror, it Wabash River, Pastor Larry Mathias First Church was in the throes of caved in on a young man named Marty. had appointed lay persons to organize divorce. The husband, Lance Beck, Willy and other workers dug him out, prayer for revival. Edie Beaman set up a yielded his life to Christ and the family almost suffocated. At an appropriate 24-hour prayer chain and a series of was salvaged. time, Willie asked, "Marty, if you had women’s prayer groups. Eugene Rails- Robert Baer, a 13-year-old from an died, would you have gone to heaven?” back organized men’s prayer breakfasts. unchurched home, came to the meeting "No,” Marty answered, "I don’t de­ Once again we experienced the out­ in the church van. Karen Phillips prayed serve to.” Willy seized the opportunity pouring of conviction and blessing of with him at the altar and he was saved. to invite Marty to the service that night, the Holy Spirit in our services. The evangelism team from Oakland where he gave his heart to the Lord. On the first night of the week of Church had also visited Izzetta W alker meetings, Tracey came in response to in her home just two weeks before the Beth and I are encouraged as we sip the invitation of Mrs. Mathias, one of revival, and she had prayed the sinner’s our morning coffee during a rare time her customers at the beauty parlor. prayer as her son had done just three of "R and R” and review our revival Now she had the joy of meeting Mrs. months previously. Remarkably, Izzetta diary of the past four weeks. Our spir­ Mathias’ best friend, Jesus, and she responded to the Holy Spirit in one of its are refreshed as we feast on the joys received Him as her own Lord and the meetings concerning unforgiveness of revival. We recall the precious young Savior. By Thursday, this new Chris­ she was harboring. At the altar, this lady on her way to another beer party tian was sharing her joy by singing in new Christian forgave people who had who changed her mind, drove to the the choir. What a blessing to those who wronged her and testified that God had revival meeting instead, and experi­ prayed for her before we came. lifted a load from her heart and she enced God’s forgiveness. We think of We heard glorious testimonies from would be writing them to make things families about to be torn asunder who others in Terre Haute First church who right. came and allowed the Lord to speak to recommitted their lives to Christ, hav­ In her two-week acquaintance with them, reuniting them in love. We think ing "taken some things off the altar.” her new friend, Jesus, Izzetta’s love was of the board member drawn back to a evident in deed as well as in word. Like fresh love for the Lord, and of young, Andrew, His disciple, she brought a tender Christians, thirsty for more of CEDAR RAPIDS, IOWA friend to the services to meet Him. God, who walked obediently in the We saw other outstanding answers new light He shed on their paths. Itwasschooldaysforjulieandjoyas to prayer in Cedar Rapids. Even attend­ Sometimes the viability of revival the ribbons o f highway unraveled be­ ance reached a high, with 273 on Sun­ meetings in today’s churches is called in­ fore us again. Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was day morning. to question. Our contention is strength­ our destination. ened: Yes! Revival meetings are still an Eighty people in Pastor Phillips’ con­ effective means of evangelism! gregation had kept round-the-clock OSKALOOSA, IOWA God does not slumber nor sleep. He prayer vigil, praying at designated 15- still works in the hearts of people. I minute intervals for several weeks be­ We moved on to Oskaloosa First thank Him every day for a church that fore we arrived. This was in addition to Church of the Nazarene where our still believes in revival!

A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship 13 CHANGED LIVES New Converts Share the Joy of Salvation

Personal evangelism call. "Because Long letter to priest. "I had a burden on Void filled. "This is Teri, my wife. We something was missing in my life, I my heart that 1 wanted to unload, so I wrote are Christians, but we didn’t used to be. A recommitted my life to Christ when the a four-page letter to my priest — I tried to three-person evangelism team called on us personal evangelism team called in my confess all the big sins I could remember. 1 after we visited the church for the first time. home. I still struggle, but I know Jesus hadn’t been to confession for a long time. I On June 1, 1987, we prayed in our living will help me through. I appreciate the was disappointed and confused because I room and opened our hearts to the Lord. fact that the personal evangelism team never received a reply either by mail or Teri felt an immediate release, but I still came to my house to witness because I phone from the priest. About that time I wasn’t totally sure. But never fear — the really needed that push to start over. I was working with a chronically mentally Lord was at work. One night, while work­ know there are a lot of other hungry ill client who told me about her pastor, who ing the graveyard shift, 1 was called to people out there who need the same was available to help at any time of day or arrest a very belligerent female citizen. push.” Teri Travelute, preschool night. So I went to church with her. The After the arrest, my fellow officer said, teacher. next week, a personal evangelism team 'You have changed. I can’t believe you came to my home. I surrendered my life to didn’t knock that woman out. You are Christ and that made a great difference. more gentle and kind. ’ After I reflected on My life has turned around. I have made his comment for a few moments, I realized many changes. I feel like I have literally he was right. I was different; the void had "I ’ve been a Pie at Waid’s Restaurant. gone from death to life.” Robin Parcell, been filled with Jesus. He has changed chemistry teacher for 23 years and have social worker. me.” Bruce Anderson, policeman. always believed in God. I attended church off and on during my life, but if I ever heard the plan of salvation, I don’t recall I was hesitant. "Though I was hesi­ or didn’t comprehend it. Dr. Shaver “My heart rejoices tant to say 'Come on over ’ to the per­ changed all of that when he offered to meet sonal evangelism team, it was a good me for pie at Waid’s Restaurant. At that in your salvation” thing. Because of them, I recommitted time he showed me the meaning of the Psalm 13:5 NIV my life to Christ. They introduced me scripture, 'Behold, I stand at the door and to Basic Bible Studies, which helped me knock.’ Until then, there had been only get acquainted with God’s Word and one set of footprints in my life — my own. helped me memorize Scripture. We Now I know there are two and I thank God Pulled me into their hearts. "A went through the membership class for Jesus Christ and for my salvation. I am seminary student invited us to church and joined the church. Coming to thankful for the witness of those who and the pastor closed the sermon with Christ strengthened my marriage and helped me. Without them I would still be Pontius Pilate’s question and he said, made me able to cope with everyday floundering in my search for Jesus.” Dale 'One of these days it will be your turn life.” Rod Travelute, carpenter. Endicott, teacher. to answer that question.’ I did answer in my heart in that service and gave my life to the Lord. The key for me is that Let us hear your story. If you wish to share people of this church reached out to me your conversion story, the GROW staff would be Church impacted. "Our church has by taking time out of their lives to pull a happy to hear from you. Your testimony should five board members who were saved non-Christian like me into their hearts. be typewritten, less than 100 words, giving spe­ through personal evangelism. Two of And they have taken my hand and cific details, influential persons, dates, human interest details, and your occupation. Please our staff members were saved through helped me grow. There is a joy that I include your name, address, phone number, and personal evangelism. Approximately feel in my heart that makes me feel like date of submission of testimony. Material should one-third of our people were saved I will explode if I do not tell everybody be sent to Editor, GROW, 6401 The Paseo, through personal evangelism.” Larry about it.” Bill Shaw, service repre­ Kansas City, Missouri 64131. Because of the press of publishing deadlines, testimonies cannot Lott, pastor. sentative for Cablevision. be acknowledged or returned. Neil B. Wiseman, editor.

14 GROW / Spring 1990

God Helps Nazarenes Plant New Works Everywhere N E W W ORKS VICTORY REPORT

PONDER GILLILAND SERVES FOUR SINGLES PIONEER NEW AS EVANGELIST: C om m u n ity CHURCH: Fort Worth Riverside Church in Round Rock at Austin C hurch (West Texas District) was (San Antonio District) had 80 in atten­ founded by four singles — a unique dance on the second Sunday in Octo­ first in Nazarene church planting. Pas­ ber. Pastor Benny Knight, 44, an tor Doug Forsberg reports that the independent businessman, felt a call to church began meeting in February preach and a call to plant this church. 1988, was organized on July 17, 1988, He rejoices in the fact that they have a CHURCH STARTS IN OLD BAR: and now averages 85 in worship. The West Texas District helped them pur­ 14,000-square-foot rented space in an Locust Grove Church of the Naza- chase property which provides ade­ office building with a meeting area for rene (Northeast Oklahoma District) quate space for the growing congrega­ 150 people and 20 classrooms. Starting started in March 1987 in an old bar­ tion. Since its beginning, the church with 29 charter members, they used the room and renovated liquor store as an has distributed 14,000 pounds of food "Phones for You” program this fall outreach mission from Pryor Church. to the needy of northeast Fort Worth, through which they found 45 needy Rev. Paul D. Baker founded this has given away 3,000 articles of cloth­ families in one week. Dr. Ponder Gilli­ work, which was officially organized on land served as the evangelist for a revi­ April 9, 1989. The congregation now ing, and served 7,000 hot meals. val starting on November 5 — the cele­ rents a vacant Methodist church; their GROW readers will be interested to bration day for their telemarketing present attendance of 38 has only two know that the first wedding at River­ side Church united Pastor Forsberg campaign. The minister said, "God has original Nazarene families. Pastor Baker and Worship Director DeVonna Breed­ given us a vision to reach our reports: "Being bi-vocational, there are love in marriage on October 28, 1989. community.” plenty of struggles, but God never puts us anywhere without a purpose. This work is certainly not by a man’s ability. God has given us a great task and a great opportunity — to be accomplished by His strength.”

16 GROW / Spring 1990 $14,495 PLEDGED FOR NEW 719 FAMILIES ON MAILING WORK AT FIRST PRAYER LIST: Folsom Lake Church of the MEETING: Batesville Church of Nazarene (Sacramento District) was the Nazarene (Mississippi District) organized on April 6, 1989, with G uy started at a home prayer meeting to Cooksey as pastor. The church started explore the possibilities of beginning a with its first service on October 27, church where two men pledged 1988, with 77 in attendance, using the $14,495 for this new work. The first "Phones for You” telemarketing sys­ services were held in the Civitan Club, THREE-YEAR-OLD LEADS tem, which produced a mailing list of but the people soon located a church MOTHER TO FAITH—'MOTHER 719 families. Now the church’s mem­ building for $26,800. On the day of STARTS TWO NEW WORKS: bership stands at 35. Pastor Cooksey closing on the property, this enthusias­ Toronto Gordonridge I and Gor- says, "The church is here to stay. tic group and the district had gathered donridge II (Canada Central District). Although we meet in a day care center enough funds so that the building was Allison Garrett, of Toronto Main Street with limited visibility, we reach new paid in full. Chartered at the General Church, invited Michelle, then three, people with our newsletter, newspaper Assembly in 1989, attendance has now to ride the church bus to Sunday advertising, and door-to-door calling increased to 34. In the fall, portable school. The girl attended Sunday school in new neighborhoods. After doing all Sunday school space was secured for and went home to tell her mother that we know to do, we trust God to bring $8,000 — debt free. P astor D on her sick father would get well if the people through the doors.” D aniels writes, "I can hardly wait to mother would go to church and pray. get to church to see what God will do After a short period of time, Lisa, the for us. He still answers prayer. Maybe mother, did just that and was soon we need to pray more and talk less converted. Now, several years later, about new works.” Lisa started two new works which may grow into churches. Gordonridge 1 is JEFFERSON FUNERAL CHAPEL an Extension Bible Class of 12 teens SITE OF NEW CHURCH: Truss- that began in September 1988 and ville New Life Church of the Naza­ meets every Wednesday evening at a rene (Alabama North District) held its PRAYERS ANSWERED FOR friend’s apartment. Gordonridge II is first service on March 5,1989, with 51 NEW FAMILY EACH MONTH: an Extension Sunday School Class of persons attending. The church was Lebanon Valley Church of the Naz­ 30 that started in March 1989 and officially organized on July 16, 1989, arene (Philadelphia District) was or­ meets every Sunday afternoon. Lisa’s with 24 charter members, 12 by pro­ ganized on April 16, 1989. Pastor testimony about what a child’s under­ fession of faith. For the first four Jam es C ox says, "When we began standing can do to help people come to months, the church met in the Jeffer­ holding services, we averaged in the Christ encouraged Rosewood Church son Funeral Home Chapel until it was mid- to upper-20s, and we prayed God to house the first Toronto Christian able to secure space in a business com­ would give us one family each month. day care ministry. plex. Centerpoint Church of the Naza­ God provided a family at least for every rene sponsored this infant church, and month through today and we are run­ Nazarenes from the Birmingham Zone ning in the 50s.” He continues, "A fter phoned thousands of homes, resulting a recent revival, I preached on spiritual in many prospects for the Trussville leadership in the family. At the close of Church. At the time GROW went to the service, four couples came forward press, Pastor Joe McNulty reported to say, 'Yes, I want to be a better spirit­ an average of 50 in morning worship, ual leader in my home.’ ” 32 members, and full self-support.

A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship 17 FOR THE Mil PASTOR j A '

-jeM. -INSTRUCTIONS & DIRECTIONS^- haM- Pastor/Leader faith and detail are called -for now. Have you come to claim a faith scripture as your own? Do you believe God wants His church to grow? Do you believe He wants the church you lead to grow? Are you willing to pay the price for growth? Do you jJcnmju 'PncuftA, Oil P/u have the courage to face the challenges of growth? tygt u/) a. oIaXp. Mr asruJ. '-A iu o OSLL

E-PLANS^*- MONTH YEAR C 3 We have scheduled WEDNESDAY SATURDAY 5 this month a major SUNDAY MONDAY ■ # planning and pre­ paration session to u make certain that we will be ready for growth period number 3 . C3 In order to achieve l l I l^SusrcicuJ, >5 9 / 0 \ our attendance goal for this year we are making plans to try A / Y 2 Tty. to s t a r t ______new g r o u p s . THREE-YEAR C] Our prayer support jyttudy sfa^ccA /y /s is in place and CALENDAR stronger now than j A aA U * ^ a year a g o . E/ujMA Cxojod 7>U C 3 I am willing to 'Lfsn /J/Asux-tfrtO FOR pay the price for 3ftO\Susnd y Ilyhiiecty rfuixjso tfusHcj&uLU38 7X^bL~Ii/^jjC CLSnC? ™8p u-cGlJj visum dcaAcCMjiU.' •jlJvky A THREE-YEAR CA .ENDAR FOR PRAYER — CORNERSTONE FOR CHURCH GROWTH

G ood ol’ Webster defines a re­ treat as "an act of withdrawing from what is difficult, danger­ ous or disagreeable.” When we think of retreats, we have a mental picture of being laid back, sleeping in ’til noon, eating to our heart’s content, playing a few games, and enjoying a life of ease and entertainment. That is why we hes­ itate to use the term "prayer retreat” for setting aside days in the year when we pray specifically for the needs of our church. Maybe it would be useful to define what we mean when we say "prayer retreat.” PRAYER RETREATS Jesus considered it essential for His W hy Have a Prayer Retreat? ministry. That causes me to believe it "So the twelve gathered all the disciples should be essential for our ministry. together and said, ’It would not be right for When we study the ministry of When Moses was the "senior pas­ us to neglect the ministry of the word of Jesus, we find that after He had spent tor” of the Israelites, his people could God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, much time with the people preaching, always tell when he had been "in the choose seven men from among you who are teaching, and doing the miraculous mountains” with God. Whenever he known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to works of God, He would leave the came back from his prayer retreat, he them and we will give our attention to crowds and go to a solitary place to was glowing with the glory of the Lord. prayer and the ministry of the word.’ ” pray. For Jesus, a prayer retreat meant The people knew. They could also tell (Acts 6:2-4) withdrawing from the works of minis­ when it had been a long while since he try to be renewed from His weariness had been on a prayer retreat. The Whether we realize it or not, the and resourced for the next task. longer Moses stayed out of the moun- people in our churches would rather

The Garden of Gethsemane is no pic­ tains, the more he lost the glory of the we spend time in prayer for them than ture of rest and relaxation; rather, it is Lord on his ministry. much of the "waiting on tables” that the picture of spiritual work. You will The same prinicple is true today. fills our schedules. also notice that the disciples who were Our leadership in the church is only One of the ways we can fulfill this there with Jesus, although they loved made weaker when we have not had call to prayer is by scheduling "days of doing the works of ministry, did not those times of prayer set aside to inter­ prayer” or prayer retreats where we even make it one hour with Jesus in cede on behalf of the people for for­ follow the example of Jesus and get prayer. giveness of sin, for power, for sanctifi­ away to pray. The entire time should be cation, and for the growth of the spent in prayer away from the world. It W hat Is a Prayer Retreat? church. A prayer retreat is following should be a time of fasting from "the A true prayer retreat is God-satu­ Jesus’ example of ministry in carrying world” as well as from food. It is not a rated time that is totally uninterrupted. out what we have been called to do. time for entertainment or even recrea-

20 i GROW / Spring 19 9 0 1 PRAYER RETREATS ual Disciplines for Christian Ministry, fellowship in prayer. This matter of New York: The Seabury Press, 1981, accountability is often the missing in­ page 42.) gredient that could lower the "infant tion. This is our "mountain” time with Prayer life is a highly personal and mortality rate” among new converts or God where there is no one but Him. private matter. There are secrets and be the life-saving source of strength to A prayer retreat is important because treasures in prayer that must be discov­ the most seasoned Christians. Pas­ it serves three purposes: ered by each Christian alone. Books tors, too, need this accountability in and papers on prayer may be helpful to prayer. Tragic episodes of "burnout” 1. It changes the leader. It renews his a point, but there is no way to learn to and even sadder moral lapses might love for God. It gives him time to pray effectively except to pray. W ith­ well be avoided through the grace of hear from God. It realigns his prior­ out exception, that learning process is a accountability. ities and gives him new vision and lonely business. Some practical suggestions for mov­ direction. It improves his ministry However, God intends for prayer to ing toward a healthy accountability in and increases his love for people. He be both private and social. There are prayer include: will know his people better, love things that one can say to God alone— H O N ESTY. It takes strength to them more, and serve them with things one almost whispers even in pri­ look into the mirror and admit imper­ more compassion. vate because they are between the Heav­ fections and weakness. Honesty is more enly Father and one’s own heart. And than just telling the truth about facts 2. A prayer retreat changes lives. yet communion and togetherness show and figures. Honesty is being willing to Prayer does make a difference. Peo­ vividly in the pattern that Jesus gave for admit the possibility of finding help in ple will be saved, marriages restored, prayer. Even private prayers cannot es­ praying for others. And the blessings of and the sick made well. It gives op­ cape the responsibility of relationships. accountability come only to those who portunity to see direct answers to are willing to admit that they might prayer. need such help. H U M ILITY. Lack of humility is 3. A prayer retreat honors God. the biggest single impediment to spiri­ That is reason enough in itself! He tual growth. To accept the fact that looks forward to those times with us others, even in different levels of under­ when He won’t be interrupted by standing or from different "families” "stuff,” even if it is good stuff. in the fellowship of faith, can have a Retreats are not the only time to genuine and vital relationship with Jesus pray. They are not substitutes for a life "Accountability” is a popular word Christ, and can be channels of God’s of prayer. However, the desire to retreat in the current language of those who blessing, can be the open door to new for extended special prayer times is teach personal spiritual growth. Ac­ vistas of joy and growth. created in our regular times of devotion countability means a deliberate choice OPENNESS. Openness is simply and meditation. to pray in community. This is to say we honesty carried into the world of rela­ Numerous passages of Scripture urge are to some extent answerable to other tionships. There aren’t many deliberate us to meditate on the Word. The Psalm­ believers. hypocrites in the ministry. But it is easy ist made it a practice. Elijah needed to Accountability in one form or an­ to fall into spiritual posturing, to al­ hear the still, small voice in the quiet­ other has always had a large place in the most unconsciously seek to appear ness of waiting before God to find mainstream of the church. John Wes­ more spiritually effective than one renewal. Our Lord urged His disciples ley’s many talents and accomplishments really is. to "come apart and rest awhile.” come to full flower in his commitment Openness needs a proper sense of Church history gives impressive ex­ that sought to fold people into fellow­ the appropriate, of course. It is not amples of believers who have devoted a ship. All his converts were required to simply "telling all,” or washing one’s great deal of time to meditation and attend "class meetings.” They were linen in public, but it is the attitude in contemplation for spiritual renewal. also welcome to join a "cell” group of which accountability can begin to take Many of us are latecomers in discover­ five people. In these cells there was no place. ing the beauty and the benefits of such leader, no lesson, but serious and lov­ ADAPTABILITY. There are many disciplines. ing concern and prayer. It is interesting ways in which spiritual accountability John Wesley meditated while riding that two-thirds of Wesley’s converts can be used and adapted in the relation­ his circuits. Dietrich Bonhoeffer re­ opted not to participate in the cells. ships of the local church. Accountabil­ quired his seminarians at Finkenwalde It is not comfortable or easy for many ity can be shared with staff or board to meditate a half-hour daily, saying, "I of us to accept the concept of "ac­ members in scheduled prayer meetings. know the Holy Spirit in no other way countability” in the matter of prayer. —by Wilbur W. Brannon than by hearing or reading the Word Pastors and leaders are used to holding and by prayerful meditation. Every day other people accountable. An imposed Additional information about prayer retreats and the in which I do not penetrate more or arbitrary accountability could only Flame (Fashioning Leadership Authority for Mission Engagement) leadership material can be obtained from deeply into the knowledge of God’s inhibit or restrict freedom and growth, Pastoral Ministries in the Church Growth Division at Word is a lost day for me.” (James C. love and joy, instead of fostering it. Nazarene Headquarters, 6401 The Paseo, Kansas City, Fenehagen, More the Wanderers: Spirit­ But the fact remains, people need MO 64131.

IA Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship 21 The NEWEST Release in the Contemporary Issues Series

bioethics /bT-o-eth'-iks/ n: a discipline dealing with the ethical implications of biological research and application, especially in medicine.

— Webster’s Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary

How should Christians respond to today’s A MATTER OF tough questions about mankind’s in­ volvement in life-and-death issues? Dr. Al Truesdale, dean of the faculty and pro­ fessor of ethics at Nazarene Theological Seminary, deals pointedly with some of today’s toughest bioethical questions: The right to health care, infant euthanasia, hu­ man experimentation, abortion, genetic engineering, and more.

GM083-411 -3287 (tent.) $5.95

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UNTANGLING THE SEXUAL REVOLUTION By Henry Spaulding Rethinking Our Sexual Ethic GM083-411-3058 $6.95

THE FIFTEEN-MINUTE MARRIAGE By Robert Drummond Principles for Living “Happily Ever After” GM083-411-3244 $4.95

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AM I MY BROTHER’S KEEPER? By Michael Malloy The AIDS Crisis and the Church GM083-411-3295 (tent.) $6.95

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BEACON HILL PRESS OF KANSAS CITY Order from YOUR PUBLISHING HOUSE THIRTY-FIVE CHURCHES GAIN 50 OR MORE MEMBERS

During the 1989 church year, the following churches gained 50 or more members:

CHURCHGAIN PASTORDISTRICT Olathe College 114 Paul Cunningham Kansas City Lake W orth New Life 112 Dorsanvil Gracius Southern Florida Fremont Central 110 Robert Denham Northern California Orlando Metro West 86 David Vaughn Central Florida Columbus Northwest 81 Clyde Barnhart Central Ohio Fort Worth Metroplex 80 James Garlow West Texas Bethany First 80 Melvin McCullough Northwest Oklahoma Long Beach First 80 John Calhoun Anaheim Glendale 73 Hylyard Irvin Arizona Kansas City First 72 Keith Wright Kansas City Seattle Aurora 71 Tharon Daniels Washington Pacific Wichita First 69 Eugene Williams Kansas Oklahoma City First 69 Stanley Toler Northwest Oklahoma Mission Valley 69 Daniel Copp Southern California New Life Community 68 Larry Pitcher Los Angeles Tucson Oro Valley 67 Michael Page Arizona Pasadena First 67 H. B. London, Jr. Los Angeles Dobson Ranch 66 Mark Fuller Arizona Carroll Gloryland 66 Charles Williams Central Ohio St. Petersburg Kennet 64 Paul Tyler Central Florida Melbourne First 64 Talbott Denny Florida Space Coast Portland First 61 Gary Henecke Oregon Pacific Tucson Mountain View 60 Robert Shephard Arizona Quitman 59 Donald Boyd, Sr. Mississippi Dumont Living Word 59 Frank Bolella New York Valley Stream Korean 59 Jong Kim New York Marion First 53 David Wilson North Central Ohio Spring Hill Calvary 52 Michael Quimby Central Florida Warren Woods 51 James Mellish Eastern Michigan Nashville First 51 Millard Reed Tennessee Sparks First 51 Herbert Ireland Sacramento Glendale Korean Community 50 Young Lee Los Angeles Virginia Beach First 50 Gene Tanner Virginia Hialeah 50 Mel Santiesteban Southern Florida Palm Bay 50 Stuart Rowan Florida Space Coast

A Journal o f Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship Mission Achievement in St. Louis and Beyond

1 2 -Year Harvest of Growth at Harvester Church

KINGDOM DREAMS REALLY DO COME TRUE —

through the eyes of Pastor Gene Grate

Rev. Gene Grate, 39, first pastor of the growing Harvester Church of the Nazarene near St. Louis, started his ministry as founding pastor o f this developing congregation on May 7, 1978 — the same year he was ordained. Earlier, he served the Lodi, Missouri, church for two years following his 1976 graduation from Nazarene Theological Seminary. Twelve years ago, Grate, along with his wife, Ronoyce, and baby daugh- ter, Gena, met with a group o f Nazarenes who had moved to the Harvester area, west o f St. Louis. This band o f believers, though still driving twenty to thirty miles to St. Louis to attend area churches, felt a burden for a new church closer to home so they could more effectively minister to neighbors, nearby friends o f the community, plus their own children and teens. They also dreamed o f a church where they could be more involved without a long commute for every service. Soon the church plant with 32 charter members began in a Kinder-Care Center with no piano, no hymnals, no Sunday school literature, but with a dream and a desire to establish an effective holiness witness in their community. Those who helped plant Harvester Church — some second- and third- generation Nazarenes — were prepared to pay any price to establish a vital church. In addition to hard work, obedient stewardship and steadfast faith, the Harvester Church enjoyed the rippling effect of solid Nazarene ministry from the greater St. Louis area. Pastor Gene Grate recounts the inspiring record . . .

24 GROW / Spring 19 9 0 1 ** Church Planting dreams really do come true! Though May 7, 1978, was an overcast morning, the weather went mostly unnoticed for those who gathered to start a new church in a day­ care center in an unincorporated com­ munity called Harvester. On that Sun­ day, our new congregation met for the first time with the conviction that God brought us together. Anticipation charged the atmosphere as worshipers arrived, parked in a crowded lot, and greeted one another in a strange facility that would be our worship meeting place for the next twelve months. By being a part of this new group, each person left the security of com­ fortable sanctuaries, established fellow­ ships and vibrant ministries. Yet into the uncertainties of such a pioneer adventure, everyone brought a dream of what God could do through com­ bined commitments. Rev. Arthur Mot- tram, then Missouri district superin­ tendent, led the opening service, preached the first message, and offi­ cially organized the church. Ronoyce, Gena and I were introduced as the newly appointed parsonage family. The service was unforgettable as we experienced God’s assuring presence. Something wonderful took place; some said it felt like electricity as worshipers experienced a sense of mission. Each one knew this was the beginning of a special work for the Kingdom of God. Since that historic Sunday twelve years ago, we have experienced a journey of unspeakable joy, challenging faith, and fulfilled dreams. W e have joined hearts and hands to build a community of caring people who make a difference in our world. First Birthday: Victories continued from the first Sunday. W e moved into a rented Seventh Day Adventist Church building on our first birthday. It was a celebration milestone of all God had helped us accomplish in one year. The next month, June 1979, only thirteen months after the first service, the congregation purchased 16 acres of land in a densely populated area — the dream for a great church was taking shape. A building committee was organ­ ized and started meeting with a local architect and builder, both Nazarenes, to flesh out ideas for an adequate, affordable building to enable the church to minister to their own and the grow­ ing community.

I A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship I 25 ”1 found spiritual help "Our church grows be­ "This area is really grow­ on a Work and Witness cause we have a pastor ing. I can see us over­ trip. I love this church with vision for the work flowing this building because everyone takes and the ability to lead.” and going out with other an interest in you — —LILLY DAVIS satellite churches.” RETIRED SCHOOL TEACHER makes you feel special.” —DENNIS TALLEY PLUMBER —JIM VANCE CARPENTER

During this time, a study was con­ style changed as needed. As a people, to train our people for a full-scale ste­ ducted to determine who this new con­ we learned that church growth inevita­ wardship campaign. This effort started gregation was, who they wanted to bly means constructive change. in March and ended on June 1 of 1986; become, and who they were trying to All of us worked to embrace new commitments totaling $750,000 were reach. This research showed that our ideas, to begin new ministries, to risk to be paid over a three-year period. developing congregation was an accu­ failures, and to make structural or This great achievement for the church rate reflection of the community — organizational adjustments. Maintain­ also produced spiritual victories for active families with younger children ing the message of holiness, while being individuals as many trusted God in and teens at home. Therefore, the willing to change methods, is an impor­ bold faith for resources for unusual giv­ committee designed and constructed a tant ingredient in our positive growth. ing. New lay leadership emerged and 13,300-square-foot, multipurpose pattern. the financial resources were available building which housed a 250-seat sanc­ In the summer of 1985, seven years to construct the new sanctuary. tuary, a half gym, 7,200 square feet of after organization, the church again Later that summer, the congregation education space, two offices, an ade­ experienced the 80% principle in sanc­ turned again to the same architect and quate kitchen, and a paved parking lot. tuary seating, just as we did in 1981. contractor to put our dreams into plans The congregation shared in another People felt crowded, and the church for the next phase of congregational victory celebration when we moved in board reactivated the building commit­ development. By the spring of 1987, on August 16, 1981. Two weeks later, tee to begin planning for additional the plans were complete and local con­ the building was dedicated by General expansion. By January 1986, the tracks struction financing secured. So the new Superintendent Jerald Johnson. Faith were in place for this expansion to run project began in July 1987. became sight as our dream took the on. The next stage expanded the sanc­ shape of blocks, mortar, boards, and tuary into the half-gym area, creating Tenth anniversary: Again faith nails. an additional 90 seats. This step was took visible form as foundations were viewed as a temporary measure to laid and walls were erected during the Unity and constructive change: allow for growth in attendance until fall and early winter. The dreams, begun The congregation continued to grow in an adequate sanctuary could be in a small day-care center in 1978, unity and numbers. Ministries were constructed. unfolded before our eyes. On April 10, designed and refined to meet the needs 1988, we held our first service in the of the congregation and to be attractive Stewardship: Simultaneous with new 600-seat sanctuary — what a day to the unchurched. As the church grew, this expansion, the congregation em­ of rejoicing! the dynamics of congregational life­ ployed a capital stewardship company Just two weeks later, the church

26 GROW / Spring 19 9 0 1 "I have been the pastor’s "This church is a perfect "We have an excellent neighbor for eight years. exam ple of a m odern pastor who places people I came here because of miracle. I was here from in the proper assignments the care and love every­ the beginning and plan at the right time.” body gives each other.” to stay until I die.” —BEN BLANTON GENERAL CONTRACTOR —LARRY TAYLOE — LES W A RD CHECK PRINTER RETIRED SCHOOL TEACHER

celebrated her 1 Oth anniversary with a tional ministries for a growing, chang­ alive. Our people intentionally assimi­ weekend revival with General Superin­ ing congregation and expand lay minis­ late newcomers and incorporate them tendent William Greathouse. On Sun­ tries. To reach one dream is to see into active ministries. Our congrega­ day, nearly 500 church, community, another dream, and to fulfill a vision is tion keeps dreaming the dream again and Missouri Nazarene friends joined to see another challenge. God, far from with new people who become part of us in praise to God as we dedicated the being finished with the Harvester our fellowship. new building. Church, calls us to "press on toward The romance of ministry still lives, The 19,000-square-foot sanctuary/ the goal to win the prize for which God and our original vision remains clear. education/office facility was construc­ has called us heavenward in Christ Consequently, our mission challenges ted $100,000 below bid. The total Jesus (Phil. 3:13-14).” us more than ever. Harmony prevails acreage and facilities recently appraised among our people, and holiness con­ for a value-in-use of $2,000,000. For twelve years, the Harvester tinues as our central message. And yes, Dreams in the morning: Now the Church has enjoyed continuous growth. under God, dreams keep coming true dream continues as we create addi­ The dream of expanded ministry is at Harvester Church.**

THE RECORD SPEAKS

1984 1989 Increases Members 103 226 +123

Sunday School 134 232 + 98

Worship Attendance 154 247 + 93 New Nazarenes + 89 Giving—all purposes $138,013 $428,877 +$290,864

A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship STEWARDSHIP SERVICES R ooted in c h r isT Personal Growth Helps for'Leaders

LOVE W E E K T W O W EEK TH R EE is The Greatest THE CRY OF THE LOST — LOVE: EVANGELISM’S PLEASE LOVE ME INDISPENSABLE FORCE

"A new commandment I give to you, that Dr. Richard Selzer, neurosurgeon, you love one another, even as I have loved W E E K O N E tells about his friendship with Gerald you” (John 13:34) in Letters To A Young Doctor. Selzer THE LOVE CONNECTION While curled up on the couch one cannot remember just when or how be WITH LOST PEOPLE winter’s evening, my four-year-old began to have lunch with Gerald, a cafe­ daughter took a flying leap and landed teria worker, every Tuesday. Yet he "For God so loved the world that He gave in my lap. My book fell to the floor. My was drawn to this mildly retarded elf­ His . . . Son” (John 3:16) glasses were knocked askew. Before I like little man of 31, only 4'6* tall, Proudly he told me about his latest could react with an appropriate father­ weighing 78 pounds, with pointed little evangelistic mission to Mexico. He and ly rebuke, she threw her little arms elf-like ears, and who suffered a severe a friend distributed a ton and a half of around my neck, kissed me on the speech impediment. gospel tracts. In one weekend. By air. cheek and said, "Daddy, will you please Gerald had an infectious laugh and a Over isolated mountain villages. I won­ love me?” spontaneous joy which often lifted the dered how those poor villagers felt Every man and woman born of doctor’s spirits. Gerald loved stories, about that effort, which could aptly be Adam’s race are asking but one question: especially those about people rescued described as the "Gospel Littering "Is there anybody who will love me?” from the abyss of death by the heroic Crusade.” And every child, teen, and adult within efforts of doctors and nurses. Some­ If spreading the gospel by radio, tele­ the reach of our church are asking but times Dr. Selzer would bring a medical vision, tracts, books, and tapes were one question: "Is there anybody who book to lunch with him, and Gerald effective, then it seems to me that our will love me?” Psychiatrist Thomas would become enthralled with the pic­ nation should have been won to Christ Morton observes, "There just isn’t tures as the doctor explained to him at least thirteen times over by now! enough love in the world to go around. what was going on. Occasionally he Unfortunately, it is not that easy. If there were, I would be out of a job!” would take Gerald to a top-drawer res­ Even as God came to us in Christ, so Ask this question: "Why do you go taurant for lunch. we too must take the risk of building to this church?” Rarely will the answer "I did not see Gerald for a month,” relationships with lost people. Few are have to do with doctrine, program, or writes Selzer, "because I had underta­ won to Jesus until they get close enough preaching. Invariably the response will ken to teach a noon-hour class. Nor did to a real live Christian to sense the be, "They care about me here.” The I see him the next month because I went warmth of accepting love, to see the secret of evangelism and church growth on vacation. When I came back, it was tear of concern in the eye, and to feel is to be found, in large measure, in how to find that Gerald had been admitted the supporting arm embracing them. well we fulfill Christ’s one new com­ to the hospital with pneumonia the The bottom line is: there is no evangelism mandment to "love one another.” week before. Within three days, he was apart from relationships! dead. I went to visit his mother.

A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship 29 '"Gerald missed you,’ she said. 'He ways, and restrooms make them feel W E E K SEVEN just pined away.’” Selzer concludes, welcome? And how about the mentally LOVE FORGIVES EVERYTHING "You must never run out on an elf, or retarded? Are we embarrassed by their "But Jesus was saying, Father forgive hurt an elf’s feelings. To an elf, such a presence? Do we encourage their "main­ them; for they do not know what they are wound is invariably fatal.” lining” into the fellowship of our doing" (Luke 23:34) church? Just these four groups alone W E E K FO U R number well over 130 million people He pulled off to the side of the road in our country. Half of our population! at a curve. He told me about that fateful TOUCHABLE LOVE All of whom are "weary and heavy- Sunday morning when he and his fam­ "A nd moved with compassion, He laden” indeed! ily were on their way to Sunday school. stretched out His hand and touched him” How about single adults who com­ A drunk came around the corner and (Mark 1:41) prise 46% of our adult population? slammed into his car at the door post. What was shocking to those original Where do they fit into a "family- His oldest son was killed instantly. One witnesses was that Jesus touched a oriented” church? How do they feel daughter died soon after and the other leper! Hideous, repulsive, contagious, when they see references, in almost sustained severe injuries that required and terminally ill. Dr. Paul Brand, who every church newsletter, to "family multiple operations. He, his wife and has spent a lifetime doing reconstruc­ potlucks,” "couples’ retreats,” and youngest son were unhurt. tive surgery for lepers, stated that what "bring your spouse”? It is what happened after this all-too- lepers crave, more than anything else, is In the light of Jesus’ invitation, these common tragedy that is "uncommon.” the human touch. They feel so isolated. questions haunt me. Do they trouble Rather than retaliating against the man So cut off from intimate human you? who had just wiped out nearly half his contact. family, he forgave him. He visited him And so do the lepers that lurk in the W E E K SIX in prison and eventually led him to Christ. He took care of his wife and shadows of our communities and LOVE WITHOUT ANY STRINGS churches: the homeless, the destitute, children when the man was incarcer­ the divorced, the bankrupt, the fired, "But Barnabas took hold of Paul and ated, and got them started in church. the alcoholics, the homosexuals, the brought him to the apostles ...” (Acts Upon his release, he helped him find a handicapped, the mentally retarded... 9:27) job. The net result was that the whole all those who make us feel so awkward . . . and it scared the apostles to family was redeemed for Christ and when we are around them. death! Then and now, it is difficult for restored to a productive alcohol-free Dr. Dennis Kinlaw tells about a "insiders” to accept certain "outsid­ life. friend who was led to visit an AIDS ers,” especially if they have an unsa­ Now that is God’s kind of love! And victim to share Christ. The doctors vory reputation or have yet to adopt that is the kind of love which makes an insisted that he put on a mask, gloves, Christian lifestyle standards. indelible impact upon all those touched and full gown to protect himself. As he Such was Steve when I first met him. by it. That layman’s surviving son is a donned his gear, he sensed the separa­ Alcoholic. Disheveled. Wouldn’t look Nazarene missionary today. tion that the safety equipment signified. me in the eye. But a believer, neverthe­ W E E K EIGHT O ff went the suit. Instead, he laid his less. Serious enough to drive 55 miles bare hand on the bare flesh of the vic­ each way to church — that is, when he LO VE’S DEPTH VISION tim and quietly said, "I have come to was not on a binge. "He has no stately form or majesty that we tell you that God loves you and I do I heard that Steve could sing like a should look upon Him, nor appearance too.” bird. I asked him to sing in church. On that we should be attracted to Him” (Isa­ "It is little wonder,” observed Kin­ a Sunday morning. He did. Could he iah 53:2) law, "that the patient opened himself ever sing! And did I ever hear about it! Her name was Marian, the first Sun­ both to my friend and to Christ.” Nevertheless, a tight group of men day School teacher I can remember. I joined me in simply loving and accept­ was eight or nine. She was a teenager. I W E E K FIVE ing Steve just as he was. We rejoiced thought she was the most beautiful LOVE AS BIG AS THE WORLD with him when he prayed for deliver­ woman in the world—especially her ance, and wept with him when he large dark eyes. I thought they were the "Come unto me, all who are weary and relapsed. eyes of Jesus. heavy-laden ...” (Matthew 11:28) I will always treasure a letter I re­ Thirty years later I visited my home Jesus said, "Com e.” And we do too, ceived from him just before I moved town for the first time since moving as a matter of course. Or do we really? from the church: "Thank you, pastor, away as a child. I looked her up. She Does an alcoholic feel welcomed? Now for believing in me, accepting me, and greeted me warmly. I was not prepared that the smoker, surprisingly, has be­ supporting me even when I had alcohol for the shock. Her appearance had come the new leper in most public sec­ on my breath. I am proud to tell you changed drastically. Her eyes: what had tors of society, does he feel the doors of that I haven’t had one drop to drink in happened to them? our churches shut even tighter than over a year now. God has delivered me. Later I told my father about seeing ever? To God be the glory, great things He Marian again. I said, "Dad, something How about the physically han­ has done!” terrible has happened to her eyes since I dicapped? Do our church steps, hall­ Are you "Barnabas” to anyone? was a kid. She has become severely

30 GROW / Spring 1990 crosseyed!” My father looked at me C. F. Andrews, he went to hear him. He And it worked! At summer’s end, she over his glasses and said, "She always was met at the door of the Dutch Re­ married . . . the postman. was!” formed Church who refused him If we would draw people to Christ, When somebody loves you, you admittance. His skin was the wrong we cannot love them in absentia. Even never notice such superficial matters as color. as God did not redeem us by long dis­ physical deformities. It is not that love Dr. E. Stanley Jones, missionary tance but came among us in Christ, so is blind, but that love sees deep! Love statesman to India and longtime friend we too must pay the price of building overcomes the world! of Gandhi, concludes: "Racialism has intimate, personal, and long-term rela­ many sins to bear, but perhaps the tionships with those who need Christ. W EEK N IN E worst sin was the obscuring of Christ in W e read, "and many tax-gatherers and LOVE NEVER RETALIATES an hour when one of the greatest souls sinners were dining with Jesus and His "Never pay back evil for evil to anyone... born of woman was making his disciples” (Mark 2:15). W e too must do not be overcome by evil, but overcome decision.” take the risk of extending warm, non- evil with good” (Rom. 12:17-21) judgmental, and accepting love to those WEEK ELEVEN outside the Kingdom if they are to be A Seattle school teacher bought a Kit drawn to the Master. The Gospel is not Kat candy bar and a newspaper on a LOVE TAKES EVERYONE IN so much taught as it is caught. Seattle ferry. She laid the candy bar "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is next to her on the bench and began to neither slave nor free man, there is neither WEEK THIRTEEN read the paper. Later she reached down male nor female; for you are all one in for her candy bar. It was not there. The LOVE: THE BASIC INGREDIENT Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28) man sitting next to her had opened it OF EVANGELISM and had taken a bite out of it. It all started with a simple act of human graciousness. Newly appointed " the greatest o f these is love (I Corin­ Incensed, she grabbed it out of his thians 13:13) hand, picked up her paper, and as an Anglican priest to South Africa, marched off to the other side of the Trevor Huddleston respectfully tipped The essence of the Gospel is love. ferry. The longer she thought about it, his hat to a black woman in a black The motivation for evangelism must be the angrier she got. Just as she walked shanty-town near Johannesburg. The love. The secret to winning people to around the corner, she ran into the woman’s son had never seen a white Christ is love. The key to discipling same man who was holding a freshly man do that. He sought out the priest. them and incorporating them into the purchased hamburger. She grabbed it They became friends. body of Christ is love. W e can do no out of his hand, took a bite out of it, Hospitalized for tuberculosis in better, as we conclude this series of gave it back to him, and then stomped 1953, Huddleston visited his black devotional studies, than quote one of off. While waiting for the line of cars to friend every day. For twenty months! history’s greatest evangelists and most begin moving off the ferry, she opened Greatly impressed, the young man be­ effective church builders, John Wes­ her purse to get her compact out. And came a confessing Christian, was bap­ ley, who affirmed: there it was. Her Kit Kat candy bar! tized, went to Seminary, and followed It is well you should be thor­ Retaliation often misfires. And it al­ his friend into the Anglican ministry. oughly sensible of this, "The ways damages relationships. Jesus’ way Most of us have never heard of Tre­ heaven of heavens is love.” There is the way of forgiveness, of agape love. vor Huddleston, now an Anglican is nothing higher in religion; there Jesus would rather die than retaliate. Bishop in South Africa. But all of us is, in effect, nothing else; if you And He did! Forgiveness liberates the have heard of his convert: Nobel Peace look for anything more than love, offender and heals the offended. It is Prize winner, Archbishop Desmond you are looking wide of the mark, the most emotionally, mentally, and spir­ Tutu. Oh, the incomprehensible power you are getting out of the royal itually therapeutic power in the world. of nondiscriminatory love! way, and when you are asking others, "Have you received this W E E K TEN WEEK TWELVE or that blessing?” if you mean DISCRIMINATION anything but more love, you mean LOVE’S POWERFUL EFFECT wrong; you are leading them out HURTS EVERYONE " And they shall call His name Imman­ of the way, and putting them "He came unto his own, and his own upon a false scent. Settle it then in received him not” (John 1:11) uel,’ which translated means, 'God with us’ ” (Matthew 1:23) your heart, that from the moment Born a Hindu, raised in India, gradu­ God has saved you from all sin, ated from law school in England, he A college student fell madly in love you are to aim at nothing more, began his practice among the large with a beautiful girl. Unfortunately it but more of that love described in Indian community in South Africa. was right at the end of the academic the thirteenth chapter of the Co­ Having come into contact with some year. He had time for only one big date. rinthians. You can go no higher Christians who gave him a New Testa­ He proposed. She demurred. Un­ than this, till you are carried into ment, he fell in love with the Jesus he daunted, he resolved to pursue her all Abraham’s bosom. (Works, XI, read about in the Gospels. summer, even though they would be at "Plain Account,” p. 430) Having heard so much about a popu­ opposite ends of the country. He wrote lar Christian evangelist by the name of her a letter every day. Without fail. by C. S. Cowles

A Journal of Church Grotvth, Evangelism and Discipleship 31 Mission Achievement i Pastor C 17 Years o in M etr St* 1 BIBLE WA HOUSED IN REMODI

S yncopated soul music by con­ gregation and choir expresses heartfelt gratitude to God for the church’s spiritual leader. Hands are lifted in praise. A bass guitar, an elec­ tronic keyboard, tambourines, and a high-watt sound system enhance each musical note as three choirs — child­ ren, youth, and adults — contribute their talents to help bless the service. Greetings from neighboring clergy, march love offerings and testimonials by church friends all add to the festivi­ ties. The congregation receives the Word of God joyfully from a visiting preacher. Enthusiasm runs very high as the family of God celebrates their pas­ tor’s long, faithful service to Bible Way Church. For 17 years, since 1972, Pastor and Mrs. Nelson Hurn have led the Bible Way Church of the Nazarene in metro­ politan St. Louis. The church meets in a supermarket converted into an attrac- it. Louis and Beyond lebrates Ministry politan mis

The building also contains classrooms, pastor’s study, and a comfortable apart­ ment for the Hurns. Contrary to many inner-city churches, Bible Way has ample parking left over from the earlier commercial use of their building. The neighborhood is made up of a combination of older apartment build­ ings and single-family residences; some have had extensive urban renewal. Both the blessings and blight of city living can be observed near the church. Under Pastor Hum’s leadership, Bible Way Church has grown to 287 members, having received more than 100 members during the last three years. The Sunday school now averages 145 annually, and the morning wor­ ship attendance is 177. The church is involved in a variety of urban ministry efforts and has an active youth depart­ ment. Through his camera lenses, pho­ tographer Michael Lewis shows us the 17th Anniversary Celebration honor- W. T. Purkiser / Paul M. Bassett / William M . Greathouse / Richard S. Taylor

"The concept of holiness in the Scriptures is vast and comprehensive. In its broadest meaning in Christian experience, holiness is life under the Lordship of Jesus Christ in the EXPLORING power and purity of the Holy Spirit. As such, CHRISTIAN it relates to every other major biblical doc­ trine: the Trinity, the incarnation, atone­ HOLINESS ment, grace, faith, justification, the church, Christian ethics, and on and on. Holiness teaching is not a line running through the Bible. It is a vast network of interconnecting truths that pervade the whole." ...... — ------W. T. Purkiser------

The Wesleyan doctrine of Christian perfection has been the subject of many volumes written since the famed 18th-century preacher John Wesley first articulated this significant truth. But not since the earliest days has such a comprehensive work been produced that pre­ sents all phases of the doctrine.

Volume 1 by DR. W. T. PURKISER presents a sur­ vey of the biblical foundations of the doctrine, experience, and life of holiness. In Volume 2, DR. PAUL M. BASSETT and DR. WILLIAM M. GREATHOUSE deal with the historical develop­ ment of holiness teaching through the Chris­ tian centuries. Volume 3, authored by DR. RICHARD S. TAYLOR, takes up the present theo­ logical formation of the doctrine. Each volume includes a valuable reference index.

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vCHRISTOPHER, CHRIS C. 343 Kenlock S.E, Lot 66, Grand Rapids, Ml 49508 •CLARK, DAVID. (R) 266 Becklea, Madison, TN 37115 CLARK, RON. (R) 1522 Hwy. 261, Newburgh, IN 47630 vCLAY, D. E. P.O. Box 142, Mount Vernon, OH 43050 vCLAY, M. E. P.O. Box 526, S t Marys, OH 45885 VCLIFT, NORVIE O. 25440 Guitta Ct, Hemet, CA 92344 EVMTGEIISTS ♦COFFEY, REV. t MRS. RUSSELL E. (C) 1841 128th Ave, Hopkins, Ml 49328 •COLLER, LORI. (R) Rd. 3, Box 198A-13, Clearfield, PA 16830 CONDRY, CONNIE. (R) 1732 Fish Hatchery Rd, West Columbia, SC 29169 DIRECTORY CONGER, DELOSS. (R) 4737 Dresden Ct., Jacksonville, FL 32257 CONRAD, BYRON. (R) 7151 Franusich Ave, Sacramento, CA 95828 COOK, DANNY. (R) 506 N. 6th St, Weatherford, OK 73096 COOK, DAVID. (R) 757 S. Bosart St, Indianapolis, IN 46203 •COOK, JAMES. (R) 418 West Ridge Dr, Fostoria, OH 44830 EVANGELISM MINISTRIES, CHURCH OF THE vCOOK, LEON G. 2418 Maple, Wichita, KS 67213 •COOK, JAME NAZARENE INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS COOPER, DALLAS. (R) Rte. 1, Box 57, Okemah, OK 74859 •COOPER, DONALD i DOLORES. (R) 905 State St, Pekin, IL 61554 vCOTTAM, T. W. 4310 Morning Sun, No. 9, Colorado Springs, CO 80918 vCOX, CURTIS B. 4002 Old Sterlington Rd, Monroe, LA 71203 BOWDEN, AL (C) 4791 Alfred St, Cocoa, FL 32927 COVINGTON, NATHAN. (C) 724 W. Knollwood, Broken Arrow, OK ABNEY, JOHN K. (R) R.R. 1, Box 214, College Grove, TN 37046 •BOWERS, LUCILLE. (C) 701 N. Buchanan, Little Rock, AR 72205 74011 •ABRAMS, KATHY (R) Rte. 1, Rose Hill, IA 52586 BOYNTON, RICHARD. (C) 6312 E. 98th St, Fishers, IN 46038 CRABTREE, JAMES C. (C) 3436 Cambridge Dr, Springfield, OH VAGNER, J. C. Rte. 1, Box 2570, Lee, FL 32059 BRAATEN, DANIEL W. (R) Box 764, Bethany, OK 73008 45503 ALBRIGHT, WAYNE L. (R) P.O. Box 272, Junction City, KS 66441 •BRALEY, PAUL (R) 1878 Lake Hill Cir, Orlando, FL 32818 CRANDALL VERNON It BARBARA. (C) 11177 S. Indian Lake Dr. E, V ALDRIDGE, DAVID J. 8079 Elmlawn S t N.E., Louisville, OH 44641 •BRAND, MARGARET. (R) Box 10332, Fort Wayne, IN 46851 Vicksburg, Ml 49097 •ALLEN, JAMES. (R) 2803 Jonathan, Texarkana, TX 75503 BREWINGTON, JANE. (R) 140 Hickory Hollow PI, Antioch, TN 37013 ♦CRANE, BILLY D. (C) Rte. 5, Box 447, Parkersburg, WV 26101 VALLEN, JIMMIE A. 205 N. Murray, No. 244, Colorado Springs, CO BRICE, GLEN W. (R) 3115 Mission St, Colorado Springs, CO 80909 vCREWS, H. F. Box 180302, Dallas, TX 75218 80916 ♦BRISCOE, JOHN B. (C) Box 78, Canadian, OK 74425 •CRIDER, JAMES i JANET. (R) P.O. Box 284, Shirley, IN 47384 VANDERSON, GEORGE R. 3335 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, FL 33803 BROUGH, NICOLAS. (R) 5620 Cambury, Temple City, CA 91780 •CROFFORD, DON. (R) 151 Pond Rd, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472 ANDERSON, GERALD W. (R) 2451 215th PI. S.W., Brier, WA BROWN, FRED. (C) 3174 Bowdoin Cir, Columbus, OH 43204 •CROSWAIT, MILDA. (R) 33 Edgecombe Dr., Milford, OH 45150 98036-8930 •BROWN, LOWELL. (R) 4618 Bostick Cir, Tampa, FL 33614 CRUFF, CURTIS E. (R) 7726 Milton, Alanson, Ml 49706 APPLE, DALE. (R) 1128 S.W. 32nd, Oklahoma City, OK 73109 BROWN, MARK. (C) 6209 W. McArthur Ln, Muncie, IN 47302 CUNNINGHAM, GARY. (R) 327 Bundy Ave, New Castle, IN 47362 •ARCHER, RONALD E. (R) 4304 N. Peniel, Bethany, OK 73008 •BROWN, ROGER N. (C) Box 724, Kankakee, IL 60901 vCURTIS, H. M. 1709 E. 17th, Ada, OK 74820 AREY, DONALD. (C) RFC 1, Anagance Ln, Wolfeboro, NH 03894 BROWN, RON. (C) Rte. 2, Box 230, Ironton, OH 45638 ♦ARMSTRONG, LEON, LINDA, & LANCE. (C) No. 10 Foxcroft Dr., BROWN, TIM D. (R) 708 Mock Ave, Blue Springs, MO 64015 Blue Ridge, VA 24064 BRUNNER, RICHARD M. (R) Rte. 1, Box 182, Manawa, Wl 54949 ARMSTRONG, ROBERT W. (R) P.O. Box 187, Skowhegan, ME 04976 BRYANT, GROVER. (R) P.O. Box 200, Carthage, MO 64836-0200 vDABNEY FRANK. 1890 17th St. N.E, Salem, OR 97303-1110 ATKINSONS, DEAN & PAT. (R) Atkinson Family Crusade, P.O. Box 517, BUCKLEY, RAY. (R) P.O. Box 11076, Boulder, CO 80301 •DAFOE, RAY. (R) 7873 Hickory, Vicksburg, Ml 49097 Newcastle, OK 73065-0517 BUDD, JAY B. (C) 1385 Hentz Dr, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 vDAGGETT, TROY J. 208 West Due West Ave, Madison, TN 37115 VATTIG, WALTER. 404 Elm St., Mascoutah, IL 62258 V BURKE, OWEN. 2929 E. Broadway, Mesa, AZ 85204 DALE, BENNIE. (R) 717 Proctor PI, Midwest City, OK 73110 ♦BURKHALTER, PAT. (C) 709 Walnut St, Atlanta, TX 75551 DALE, TOM. (R) 911 Florence, Nampa, ID 83651 •BURNEM, ANN. (R) 103 New Hampshire Dr, Ashland, KY 41101 VDANIELS, M. BERT. P.O. Box 75412, Oklahoma City, OK 73147 B ______BURNHAM, KEN. (C) 221 College Dr, Hesston, KS 67062-8911 VDANIELS, M. HAROLD. P.O. Box 470, Littleton, CO 80120 V BAGGETT, DALLAS. 1313 Fletcher Ave. S.W., Decatur, AL 35601 vBYERS, CHARLES & MILDRED. 2121C S. Ingram Mill Rd, Spring­ VDARNELL H. E. P.O. Box 929, Vivian, LA 71082 •BAILEY, TONY & TRICIA. (R) 207 Edgewood Rd„ Eureka, IL 61530 field, MO 65804 VDAVIS, HAROLD C. 1955 Moran Rd, Choctaw, OK 73020 ♦BAKER, RICHARD C. (C) 3590 Coal Fork Dr., Charleston, WV 25306 DAWS, LEONARD J. (R) 3286 Wyoming Ave, Xenia, OH 45385 BAKER, SAMUEL 617 East Wood Ave., Raymondville, TX 78580 DAWSON, JAMES A. (R) R.R. 1, Box 189, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 VBALLARD, DON. 7231 German Creek Park, Memphis, TN 38125 VDEBOLT, TED A. 349 Ellenwood, West Carrollton, OH 45449 VBALLARD, OLIVER H. 7113 S. Blackwelder, Oklahoma City, OK CANEN, DAVID. (C) Rte. 2, Box 12B, Adrian, GA 31002 •DECKARD, STEVE. (R) R.R. 14, Box 459, Bedford, IN 47421 73159 CANFIELD, DAVID. (R) 503 Short White Oak, Russell, KY 41169 ♦DELL JIMMY. (C) 4802 E. Mitchell Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85018 BALLARD, Z. JUNE. (R) 335 Cedar St, Chadron, NE 69337 vCANNON, DURWOOD. P.O. Box 454, Uniontown, AL 36768 ♦DENNISON, MARVIN E. (C) 1208 S.E. Green Rd, Tecumseh, KS BARNES, JACK. (C) Rte. 1, Box 150-A, Chapel Hill, TN 37034 •CARATHERS, DELORIS. (R) 9823 Cherry Tree Ln, Indianapolis, IN 66542 •BELL, JEAN. (C) P.O. Box 776, Bethany, OK 73008 46236 VDEPASQUALE, JAMES. P.O. Box 5462, Bellingham, WA 98227 BELL, WAYNE A. (R) P.O. Box 273, Prescott, AR 71857 VCARPENTER, ROBERT W. 4805 Airport Rd, Nampa, ID 83651 DEWEY, KENNETH. (R) Box 636, Rte. 2, Spring Hill, TN 37174 BELZER, DAVE i BARBARA. (C) Box 32, Miller, SD 57362 •CASWELL, GERALD. (R) 2258 Wise Rd, North Canton, OH 44720 ♦ DICKSON, RICHARD, LIVING WAY GOSPEL TEAM. (R) 821 Lons- BENDER, TIM. (C) 1278 Smith Chapel Rd, Shelbyville, TN 37160 CAYTON, JOHN. (C) 16 Southworth St, Lakeville, MA 02347 vale Dr., Anderson, IN 46013 •BENNETT, ROBIN. (R) 56 Lindbergh Ave., No. F Barberton, OH CERRATO, ROBERT. (R) 11210 Cherry C t, 526, Palos Hills, IL 60465 VDISHON, MELVIN. 936 Shive Ln, Lot 184, Bowling Green, KY 42101 44203 vCHALFANT, MORRIS. 860 Bunker Hill, Bourbonnais, IL 60914 VDIXON, GEORGE I CHARLOTTE, c/o Evangelism Ministries' BENTLEY, PAUL E. (R) 233 Young Ave., Nampa, ID 83651 vCHAMBERLAIN, DOROTHY H. Rte. 21, Box 28, Mobile Park, DODDS, JOHN. (C) 272 Jack Oak Rd, St. Marys, OH 45885 VBERRIAN, HAROLD E 186 Highland Ave, Pennsville, NJ 08070 Carmichaels, PA 15330 •DODDS, LARRY W. (R) Rte. 5, Box 385, Flint Valley Estates, •BERRY, CHARLES. (R) 2524 Brierwood Dr, Albany, GA 31705 ♦CHAMBERS, EUGENE. (R) P.O. Box 1187, Bethany, OK 73008 Burlington, IA 52601 •BICKFORD, BERNADETTE. (R) 3802 Driftwood, San Angelo, TX vCHAMBERS, LEON & MILDRED. 218 Regan Dr, Magnolia, MS DODGE, KENNETH L. (C) 1150 W. Winton Ave, No. 221, Hayward, CA 76904 39652 94545 BIRD, LANCE. (R) 1001 Laurel Hills Ct, Haines City, FL 33844 VCHANDLER, WILLIAM. 705 Meadow Lark Ln, Durant, OK 74701 •DOLE, CHARLES & VERA. (R) 22210 Salt Fork Rd., Lawrenceburg, ♦BLUE, DAVID & DANA. (C) P.O. Box B, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217 vCHANEY, REEFORD& BARBARA 4070 Monza Dr, Richmond, VA IN 47025 BLYTHE, ELLIS G. (C) 7731 S.W. 10th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32607 23234 •DOOLITTLE, KEVIN. (C) Andover Township, 2 Ravine Dr, Newton, BOCK, DON. (C) Box 412, Washington Court House, OH 43160 vCHAPMAN, W. EMERSON & LOIS. Rte. 1, Box 87, Miltonvale, KS NJ 07860 •BOGGS, JERRY. (R) 203-A Linden Ave, South Point, OH 45680 67466 •DOROUGH, WILLIAM M. (R) 219 Oak Hills Dr, HHH, Mabank, T X BOHANNON, WILLIAM. (R) 542 Maple St., East Alton, IL 62024 CHASE, FRANK. (R) Lake Country, Box 25, Mannford, OK 74044 7 5 1 4 7 •BOICOURT, MARLA. (R) 1413 Willow Dr, Olathe, KS 66062 ♦CHEATWOOD, HENRY & PHYLLIS. (C) Rte. 4, Box 96, Kissee Mills, •DOWNING, ANN. (C) Box 767, Hendersonville, TN 37075 ♦BOND, GARY & BETH. (C) 410 S. Clay St, Sturgis, Ml 49091 MO 65680 DOWTY, PAUL. (R) Rte. 3, Box 741, Broken Bow, OK 74728 ♦BOQUIST, DOUG & DEBBIE. (R) c/o 16001 Glen Rd, Mount Vernon, CHIPP, VERLIN E. (C) 127 S. State St, Indianapolis, IN 46201 DRESSLER, R. H. (R) Box 750177, Duncan, OK 73573 OH 43050 CHOATE, KIRBY. (R) Rte. 2, Box 805, Raymondville, TX 78580 DUNCAN, HERSCHEL. (R) 350 Birch Dr, Charlestown, IN 47111 •BOUGH, ALICE. (R) 638 Oxford, Valparaiso, IN 46383 CHRISTNER, JACK. (C) 1560 Newark Rd, Mount Vernon, OH 43050 DUNLAP, BARRY L. (R) Rte. 3,226 Forester Dr, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 •DUNMIRE, RALPH & JOANN. (C) 202 Garwood Dr, Nashville, TN 37210 DUNN, DON. (C) P.O. Box 132, Bartlett, OH 45713 •DURR, DON. (R) 1127 Oakwood Dr., Dunedin, FL 33528 (C) Commissioned (R) Registered ♦Preacher & Song Evangelist *Song Evangelist ♦DUTTON, BARRY & TAVIA. (C) P.O. Box 119, Clarksburg, MO 20871 VRetired Elders in Evangelism "Evangelism Ministries, 6401 The Paseo, Kansas City, MO 64131 An adequate budget fo r evangelism at the beginning o f each church year is imperative fo r each congregation. •EBY, PAUL i MARTHA. (R) P.O. Box 100441, Nashville, TN 37210 A reuival savings account is useful in building toward adequate support fo r the euangelist. •EDWARDS, BOBBY. (R) 1080 Jameson Ct, New Castle, IN 47362 EDWARDS, CHARLES. (C) 19924 Teresa Way, Cerritos, CA 90701 EVANGELISM MINISTRIES

•EIFERT, FRANKLIN. (R) 5902 N. Himes Ave., Tampa, FL 33614 HEATON, K. D. (C) 14 Martinsburg Rd, Apt. A, Mount Vernon, OH LEAF, JOHN 0. (R) Rte. 1, Box 300, Dover, OH 44622 VEMRICK, C. ROSS. 9245 Banwell Rd., Alanson, Ml 49706 43050 ♦LECKRONE, LARRY (C) 403 E. Main, Morenci, Ml 49256 ELLINGSON, LEE. (C) P.O. Box 1823, Bethany, OK 73008 HECKATHORN, JIM. (R) 713 Lake Lowell Ave, Nampa, ID 83651 LEFFEL ROBERT L (R) Rte. 13, Box 573, Fayetteville, AR 72701 ♦ ESSELBURN, BUD (THE KING’S MESSENGERS). (C) 28241 S.R. ♦HELMS, MIKE i GLORIA. (C) c/o Evangelism Ministries' LEIDY, ARNOLD G. (R) P.O. Box 124, Moriarty, NM 87035 60 N, Rte. 1, North Warsaw, OH 43844 vHENDERSHOT, HARVEY. (R) Rte. 4, Lakeview Dr, Mount Juliet, TN LEIGH, GILBERT. (R) 5004 W. Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60651 ESTERLINE, HOWARD G„ SR. (R) P.O. Box 550, Coolidge, AZ 85228 37122 v LEONARD, J. C. 1410 Armory, Chariton, IA 50049 EVERMAN, WAYNE. (R) 109 Cox St., Box 377, Stanton, KY 40380 VHENDERSON, LATTIE. 3006 Liberty Rd., Greensboro, NC 27406 V LESTER, FRED R. 7404 Ed Rice, Mesa, AZ 85208 vHERMON, THOMAS M. 936 Ave. T S.E, Winter Haven, FL 33880 LIDDELL R L (C) 3530 W. Allen Rd, Howell, Ml 48843 vHESTER, JAMES C. 1 Red Oak Ct. Mansfield, TX 76063 LINN, HERMAN. (R) Rte. 6, Box 178, New Castle, IN 47362 F ______vHICKE, S. F. (R) 4923 Forest Ct, Oak Forest, IL 60452 V LISTON, CLARENCE D. P.O. Box 23576, Tuscon, AZ 85734 ♦FADER, WES & MARY. (C) Quail Ridge Dr.. Rte. 3. Box 310, HICKS, JOHN DAVID. (C) 240 Daniels St, McMinnville, OR 97128 V LITTLE, HAROLD N. 9907 White Oak Ave, Northridge, CA 91325 Salisbury, MD 21801 ♦HIGGINS, CHARLES i MARJORIE (C) 2242 W. Wagonwheel. VLOBB, OSCAR. Rte. 3, Box 484, Greensburg, KY 42743 vFARLOW, T. J. Box 1145, Robertsdale, AL 36567 Phoenix, AZ 85021 LOHR, DONALD. (C) P.O. Box 7056, Charleston, WV 25356 v FARRIS, A. A. 1503 Orchard Ct, Science Hill, KY 42553 VHINKLE, FRED C. Rte. 1, Box 102, Tishomingo, OK 73460 LOMAN, H. LANE. (R) P.O. Box 142, Antioch, TN 37013 FAULK, A. RAY. (C) Rte. 1, Box 75, Crowley, LA 70526 HINES, RAYMOND L (R) Box 114, Nocatee, FL 33864 •LORENZEN, LINDA. (R) Rte. 3, Box 231A, Blanchester, OH 45107 •FELKNER, HENRY (R) 173 Heartz, Coppell, TX 75019 •HISE, RON. (R) 2035 Hancock, Demotte, IN 46310 LOUGHRIDGE, WILLIAM. (R) Rte. 2, Box 38, Wister, OK 74966 •FIGHTMASTER, ANTHONY. (R) 198 Convent Bourbonnais, IL HODGE, RICHARD. (R) 7204 Hibiscus Dr, Muncie, IN 47302 LOVE, ROBERT. (R) 6425 Nanette, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 60914 HOECKLE, WESLEY W. (R) 642 Vaky, Corpus Christi, TX 78404 •LOVING, BECKY. (R) 1101 S. Park Rd, Texarkana, TX 75503 vFILES, GLORIA R. 1102 N. Peniel Ave., Avon Park, FL 33825 HOLDER, SYBIL (R) 249 Winthrop St., Brooklyn, NY 11225 VLOWN, ALBERT J. c/o General Secretary's Office FISHER, CLAIR H. (R) RD 1,103 Valley View Rd., Phoenixville, PA HOLLOWELL, JERRY. (R) P.O. Box 2, Paris, TX 75460 LYBARGER, EVERETT. (C) P.O. Box 1534, Conway, AR 72032 19460 HOLSINGER, MARK. (C) 9231 E. Aero Dr, Pico Rivera, CA 90660 vFISHER, C. WILLIAM. No. 1, Antigua Ct, Coronado, CA 92118 HOLSTEIN, J. TED. (R) 473-B Dewdrop Cir, Cincinnati, OH 45240 FLETCHER, RAY (R) Box 6225, Elgin, OK 73538 HOLT, JAMES. (R) 6220 Old Mill Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46241 M ______FLINT, ROBERT. (R) 11388 Rte. 36, Marysville, OH 43040 HOOTS, BOB. (C) 309 Adair St, Columbia, KY 42728 MACK, WILLIAM M. (C) 106 Youpon Dr, Hubert, NC 28539 FLOYD, TOM. (C) 5543 W. Michigan, Glendale, AZ 85308 •HORNE, ROGER i BECKY. (R) P.O. Box 17496, Nashville, TN 37217 •MADDOX, HOMER I MARTHA. (R) 1917 Wilkens St, Indianapolis, FORTNER, ROBERT E. (C) Box 322, Carmi, IL 62821 vHOUSE, JOHN W. 2503 Division St, No. 200, North Little Rock, AR IN 46221 FOSTER, A. D. (R) 1017 N. 20th St., St. Joseph, MO 64501 72114 MANER, ROBERT E. (C) P.O. Box 675, Fitzgerald, GA 31750 vFOSTER, HALLIE & MARTHA P.O. Box 375, Stonington, IL 62567 VHOWARD, DICK. 7901 N.W. 28th Terr, Bethany, OK 73008 VMANGUM, PAUL D. 416 Ivy St, Nampa, ID 83651 VFOSTER, J. R 1805 N. Union, Decatur, IL 62526 HUBARTT, LEONARD. (R) 8612 Timbermill PI, Fort Wayne, IN 46804 MANLEY, STEPHEN. (C) Box 522, Upland, IN 46989 •FOSTER, MARY. (R) 1805 N. Union. Decatur. IL 62526 HUBBARD, JEFFIE. (R) 3213 W. Ave. T, Temple, TX 76504 ♦MANN, THURL & MARY KAY. (C) 90 Sycamore Ln, Fort Myers, FL VFOWLER, IRA E. Rte. 3, Box 345 Hollywood, WA 20636 HUGHES, REV. JOYCE. (C) 4524 Ashland City Hwy, Clarksville, TN 33908 FRANK, RICHARD A. (C) c/o Evangelism Ministries' 37043 VMARSH, A MILTON. Box 234, Remington, IN 47977 •FRAZER, WILMA (R) 305 High St., Brilliant, OH 43913 HUNDLEY, JOHN D. (C) P.O. Box 764, Nashville, GA 31639 VMARTIN, LEON. Rte. 3, Box 242A, Bonham, TX 75418 FREEMAN, MARY ANN. (R) P.O. Box 129, Gas City, IN 46933 MATTER, DAN & ANN. (R) 2617 Carew St. Fort Wayne, IN 46805 •FREY, DONALD. (R) The Frey Family, 410 S. Clay, Sturgis, Ml 49091 vMAY, JOHN. RO 1, Box 1756, Colliers, WV 26035 I ______MAYO, CLIFFORD. (C) P.O. Box 345, Dickens, TX 79229 VICE, CHARLES. 702 S. Malcolm, Chanute, KS 6 6 7 2 0 vMAZE, KENNETH, Rte. 9, Box 102, Parkersburg, WV 26101 G ______VIDE, CHARLES. 4925 Cypress Gardens Rd, No. 3, Winter Haven, •McABEE, JAMES. (R) 103 Loretta Dr., Spartanburg, SC 29301 •GABEL, JIM. (R) 5028 Burma Rd. W, Mobile, AL 36609 FL 33880 ♦McCALLIE, JAMES. (R) Rte. 6, Box 254, Columbus, IN 47201 GADBOW, DONALD C. (R) 1128 W. Lonetree Rd, Cedar Falls, IA INGALLS, JAMES H. (R) 17616 W. 113th Terr, Olathe, KS 66061 McCANDLESS, MARION L (C) P.O. Box 97, Midway City, CA 92655 50613 INGLAND, WILMA. (R) 1170 Princeton Rd, Monroeville, PA 15146 McCARTY, DONALD. (R) P.O. Box 1561, Sitka, AK 99835 GALVEZ, MARCO. (R) 316 N. Lincoln, Barnesville, OH 43713 McCOOL EARL (C) 1331 N. Iowa, Colorado Springs, CO 80909 GARDNER, JOHN M. (C) 4102 Carlisle Rd, Lakeland, FL 33813 McCORKLE, ROB. (R) 7606 W. 86th St, Overland Park, KS 66212 GAWTHORP, WAYLAND. (C) Rte. 1, Box 97AA, Crowley, LA 70526 J ______MCDONALD, CHARLIE E. (C) 920 W. Olive St, West Monroe. LA vGERBIG, BERNICE. (R) 315 N. 8th St, Boonville, IN 47601 JACK, GLORIA JEANNE. (R) 701 Kenwood Or, Russell, KY 41169 71291 vGHOLSON, LAWRENCE. 2316 43rd Ave. Ct, Greeley, CO 80634 •JACKSON, PAUL & TRISH. (C) Box 739, Meade, KS 67864 v MCDONALD, G. RAY. 720 Carroll Wood Village. Apt. 305, Gretna, GIBSON, NORRIS (Tobie & Company). (C) Rte. 1, Box 385, Man­ JACKSON, THOMAS. (R) Rte. 1, Box 242, Fiemingsburg, KY 41041 LA 70056 chester, GA 31816 vJAMES, R. ODIS. 323 Winter St, St. James, MO 65559 McELFRESH, RONALD. (C) 1964 Osage Cir, Olathe, KS 66062 GOLAY, GEORGE. (R) 279 Boice Rd. N.W., Cedar Rapids, IA 52405 JANTZ, ORLANDO. (R) HCR1, Box 185, Minneola, KS 67865 ♦McFERRIN, RICK i LANETTE. (C) Rte. 8, Box 300, Lot 13, Muncie, GOODWIN, LESLIE. (R) 12181 Rich, Loveland, OH 45140 ♦JANTZ-OWENS, MARJORIE. 31 Holly Dr, Olathe. KS 66062 IN 47302 •GORDON BOB. (C) c/o Evangelism Ministries' JAYMES, RICHARD W. (R) 617 W. Gambier, Mount Vernon, OH 43050 McGEE, JERRY. (C) 3115 Goldmine Rd, Monroe, NC 28110 •GORMAN, CHARLES AND ANN. (R) 12104 Linkwood Ct, Louisville, •JEFFRIES, JEFF & JAN (R) 21308 120th St, Apt. B. Bonney Lake, McGUFFEY, JAMES. (R) 1580 Cape Charles Ct, Cicero, IN 46034 KY 40229 WA 98390 McKELUPS, DALLAS. (C) P.O. Box 921, Bethany. OK 73008 GOULD, LOREN W. (C) 4479 Hialeah Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23464 JOHNSON, ALBERT. (R) Rte. 2. Box 217. Kenbridge. VA 23944 •McKINNON, JUANITA. (C) Box 126, Institute, WV 25112 ♦GRABKE, RONALD & MARTHA. (C) 225 Pleasantview Dr, Brain­ JOHNSON, BOB. (R) P.O. Box 499, Woodland Park, CO 80863 •McMAHAN, W .TJ MARGARET. (R) 4218 Lazard St., Chattanooga, tree. MA 02184 V JOHNSON, COMER, P.O. Box 667, Excel, AL 36439 TN 37412 vGRANT, COOLIDGE. P.O. Box 18, Glens Fork, KY 42741 JOHNSON, DONALD. (R) Box 196, Ogden, IL 61859 vMcVEY, V. L 173 E. 2nd St, Fond du Lac, Wl 54935-4463 ♦GREEN, JIM 1 ROSEMARY (C) Box 385, Canton, IL 61520 •JOHNSON, RON. (C) 3208 Eighth St. E, Lewiston, ID 83501 McWHIRTER, STUART. (C) P.O. Box 458, Corydon, IN 47112 GREEN, KELLY. (R) 1832 Spruce Dr, Columbus, OH 43232 V JONES, BERT. (C) 1926 Lakeside Dr, Erie, PA 16511 MEEK, WESLEY E. (R) 5713 S. Shartel, Oklahoma City, OK 73109 •GREEN, SHARON (GOSPEL SOUNDS). (R) 1832 Spruce Dr, Colum­ JONES, GRACE L (C) P.O. Box 251, Leming, TX 78050 MEENACH, CHRIS. (R) Rte. 2, Box 80A Franklin Furnace, OH 45629 bus, OH 43232 ♦JONES, TERRY (C) 2002 Judy Ln, Pasadena, TX 77502 •MEHR, BETHANY. (R) Box 37, South Lyon, Ml 48178 GRIBBEN, GEORGE. (R) Longvue Dr, W in te rs *, OH 43952 •JONTE, JOHN. (R) 3905 N.W. 56th PI., Oklahoma City, OK 73112 MELVIN, DOLORES. (C) HC 60. Box 224, Greenup, KY 41144 GRIMES, ANDREW. (R) 110 Copperfield Dr, Chillicothe, OH 45601 JORDAN, JOSEPH R. (R) 8100 Walhonding Ave, Logan, OH 43138 •MEREDITH, DWIGHT & NORMA JEAN. (C) c/o Evangelism GRIMM, HUGH. (R) 5845 Kentview Ave. N.W, North Canton, OH 44720 ♦JUSTICE, MEL i DONNA. (C) 142 King Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 Ministries' •GRINDLEY, GERALD i JANICE. (R) 414 W. Oliver, Owosso, Ml vMETCALFE, RUSSELL F. 2434 23rd St, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223 48867 vMEYER, VIRGIL I DOROTHY. 3112 Willow Oak Dr, Fort Wayne, IN GROSSMITH, FREDERICK. (C) 4 S t Heliiers Rd, Cleethorpes, K ______46809 England DN35 7LQ ♦MICKEY BOB. (C) 504 N. Sixth, Lamar, CO 81052 KEENA, EARL (C) 2160 0 St, Oroville, CA 95966 MILBURN, GARY. (R) P.O. Box 475, Braddock Heights, MD 21714 GROVES, C. WILLIAM. (C) 3986 Cypress Ave, Grove City, OH 43123 KEETO, MARSHALL (R) P.O. Box 158, Mentmore, NM 87319 GUNTER, WILLIAM. (R) 12609 29th PI. W, Everett, WA 98204 MILEY, TROY J, (R) 102 Nazarene Dr, South Charleston, WV 25309 VKELLY, R, B. 4706 N. Donald, Bethany, OK 73008 vMILLER, NETTIE A. 131314th St, Apt 801, Columbus, GA 31994 •KENYON, PAUL (R) 6326 Norburn Way, Lansing, Ml 48911 MILLER, RICHARD S. (R) 2727 Sugar Tree Rd, Bethel, OH 45106 •KIDDER, KERMIT. (R) 516 Flamingo Dr, Lakeland, FL 33803 MILLER, WALLACE C. (C) 1270 N.E. 27th, Bend, OR 97701 KING, DENNIS. (R) 111 Hillcrest Dr, Newburgh, IN 47630 H ______MILLHUFF, CHUCK. (C) Box 160, Olathe, KS 66061 KIZZEE, JOHN. (R) 801 Kingsbury, Junction City, KS 66441 ♦HAINES, GARY. (C) c/o Evangelism Ministries' MILLS, CARLTON A (C) 24 Bow St, Danvers, MA 01923 VKNIGHT, JOHN L 4000 N. Thompkins, Bethany, OK 73008 HALL, CARL N. (C) P.O. Box 7086, Clearwater, FL 33518 vMITCHUM, CLARENCE R. 1225 Rockport Rd, Apt 342, Boonville, KOHR, CHARLES A. (C) Rte. 2, Box 360, Brookville, PA 15825 HALL, DAVID. (R) 3220 N. Wildan, Springfield. MO 65803 IN 47601 vKRATZER, RAYMOND C. 4305 Snow Mountain Rd, Yakima, WA vHALL, HADLEY A. 2105 Juniper Dr, Plant City, FL 33566 VMIZ MAUDIE MINISTRIES. 5117 Haleville, Memphis, TN 38116 HAMBLIN, MERLE E. (R) 2616 Fairfield Ave, Kalamazoo, Ml 49004 98908 •MOATS, MARILYN. (R) 617 W. Oak St. Carmi, IL 62821 •KRAUTER, DARREN. (R) 6216 N. Sheldon. Apt 1908. Tampa. FL •HANKINS, GEORGE W. (C) 3 E. Buttonwood St, Vfenonah, NJ VMODESITT, BRUCE. 1114 Henley St, Decherd, TN 37324 33615 08090 MONCK, JIM. (C) 971 Madrone Ave, Chico, CA 95926 •HANSON, BRIAN. (C) 5505-A Thompkins Ct, Virginia Beach, VA MONROE, JOHN. (R) Rte. 1, Box 389, McLoud, OK 74851 23464 •MOORE, GARY. (R) 14915 Quivira Rd, Olathe, KS 66062 VHARCOURT, HAROLD C. 1301 Newbury Dr, Norman, OK 73071 L ______MOORE, NORMAN. (C) Box 1630, Chandler, AZ 85244 HARRINGTON, MILTON. (R) 4005 Little Rock Dr, North Highlands, CA LAING, GERALD. (C) 11436 East St, Vicksburg, Ml 49097 MOORE, RUDOLPH. (C) P.O. Box 56, Fortville, IN 46040 95660 VLAMBERT, J. WILMER. 710 Chaffin Ridge, Columbus, OH 43214 MORLEY, FRANK. (C) 4080 Pedley Rd, No. 151, Riverside, CA 92509 HARRISON, ROBERT. (R) 7215 Acacia, Leander, TX 78641 •LaSALLE, JAN (MRS. RAY). (C) P.O. Box 350, Fort Scott KS 66701 MORRIS, CLYDE. (C) 101 Bryant Lake Rd, Cross Lanes, WV 25313 HARTMAN, LEWIS. (R) 3643 Rockville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46222 LaSALLE, RAY (C) P.O. Box 350, Fort Scott KS 66701 MORRIS, JAMES. (R) 4028 Crede Dr, Charleston, WV 25302 VHASTIE, LEO. 16208 Speaker St, Belton, MO 64012 LAWSON, WAYNE. (C) c/o Evangelism Ministries' MORSCH, J. V. (R) 9924 Bay Vista Ests. Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819 VHAWKINS, RAY. (R) 1615 Kickapoo, Pueblo, CO 81001 LAXSON, KIP. (C) 675 Harding PI., G-6, Nashville, TN 37211 MOSER, THOMAS W. (R) 555 Barts Church Rd, Hanover, PA 17331 HAYES, ALVIN B. (R) 15812 W. 129th St, Olathe, KS 66062 •LAXSON, WALLY & GINGER. (C) Rte. 3. Box 118. Athens. AL 35611 •MOSGROVE, REED. (R) 7536 17th Ln. N, St. Petersburg, FL 33702 HAYNE, JAMES S. (C) 1917 E. Whitton, Phoenix, AZ 85016 •LAYCOCK, ERIC L (R) 146 Wendover Dr, Hamilton, ON L9C 5X5 MOSS, UDELL & DORIS. (C) 1980 S. Florissant Rd, Florissant, MO HAYNES, CHARLES IMYRT. (C) P.O. Box 3563 Cleveland, TN 37320 CANADA 63031 EVANGELISM MINISTRIES

♦MUNCIE, BOB & JANE. (C) Rte. 1, Box 17, Cory, IN 47846 vROBERTSON, JAMES H. 2014 Greenapple Ln. Arlington, TX 76014 •TINSLEY, MARVIN It DENISE. (C) Rte. 1. Box 215A. Waldron, IN •MURPHY MARK. (R) 410 S. Clay St, Sturgis, Ml 49091 ROBISON, ROBERT. (R) Heaters, WV 26627 46182 ♦MYERS, HAROLD S MRS. (C) 575 Ferris N.W, Grand Rapids, Ml VROEBUCK, L H. 1280 Lakeview Rd, Clearwater FL 33516 vTOLBERT, WILLIAM A. P.O. Box 85-7935, Port S t Lucie, FL 33485 49504 ROSE, WAYNE. (R) 16007 W. 136th Terr, Olathe, KS 66062 ♦TOOLEY, JIM. (C) 2108 Burlington Rd, Rte. 4, Oskaloosa, IA 52577 MYERS, JACK M. (R) RO. Box 111134, Nashville, TN 37222 ROSSITER, LARRY. (R) 9867 Shellbark Ln, Cincinnati, OH 45231 •TRAMMEL JERRY. (R) 21 Stanwood Loop, North Little Rock, AR ROTH, RON. (C) 2645 E. Cozy, Springfield, MO 65804 72118 ROTZ, DARRELL E. (R) 3620 Hampton Rd, Pasadena, CA 91107 TRIPP, HOWARD. (C) 3623 Fountain Ave, No. 66, Chattanooga, TN N ______♦ROYSE, C. E. (R) 2105 Taylor Ave, Racine, Wi 53403 37412 RUARK, JAMES. (R) 2014 Northcliff Dr, Columbus, OH 43229 •TRISSEL MARY A. (R) Rte. 3, Box 359L, Wildwood, FL 32785 NAJARIAN, BERGE & DORIS. (R) RO. Box 100308, Nashville, TN vRUSHFORD, GILBERT. 3483 Broadmoor Blvd., San Bernardino, CA TRISSEL PAUL J. (R) 117 Avenilla del Fuego, Belen, NM 87002 37210-0308 92404 vTRUE, IRA L. 500 W. Santa Maria, No. 77, Santa Paula, CA 93060 vNASH, FORREST. 725 W. Cedar, Olathe, KS 66061 RUSSELL DOUGLAS J. (R) 3644116th Ave, Edmonton, AB T5W 0W6 TUCKER, RALPH W. (R) R.R. 1, Box 55, Woodbine, IA 51579 NASH, JACK W. (R) 8840 Oakdale Ave.. Norttiridge, CA 91324 CANADA TURNER, BEVERLY. (R) 709 Holbrook, Lebanon, OH 45036 •NAYLOR, EDWARD. (R) 6 Rubydale Gardens, Weston. ON M9L1B3 TURNOCK, J. JAMES. (R) Rte. 1, Box 365, A-1, Williamsport, MD CANADA 21795 •NEFF, LARRY I, PAT. (C) 625 N. Water St., Owosso, Ml 48867 vNEES, L GUY. 181 Lawrence Ln., Kalispell, MT 59901 s ______NEWBY, PAUL. (R) 607 Orange Ave., Ocoee, FL 32761 SCHMELZENBACH, DENNIS R. (R) 1713 N. Glade Ave, Bethany. OK u ______73008 NEWTON, DANIEL (R) P.O. Box 323, Fairland, IN 46126 VULMET, ALECK, 63 Hope Dr, Bella Vista, AR 72714 SCHWOB, WAYNE. (R) 1823 E. Jackson Blvd., Elkhart, IN 46516 NEWTON, VIRGINIA R. (R) 1810 26th St. E, Chattanooga, TN 37407 UMSTEAD, CLAIR E (R) P.O. Box 7, East Charleston, VT 05833 •NOFFSINGER, JIMMIE S BOBBIE. (R) 6324 W. 101 PI., Overland •SCRIVNER, VICKIE. (R) c/o Evangelism Ministries' Park, KS 66212 •SEMRAN, KIM & CINDY. (R) 5229 W. Michigan Ave, Lot 41, Ypsilanti, Ml 48197 V ______SEXTON, JACK A. (R) 2615 Ontario St, Cincinnati, OH 45231 •VERTREES, MARK S. (R) Rte. 1, Box 152, Cunningham, TN 37052 0 ______SEYMOUR, J. KEVIN. (R) 812 N. Clinton. Apt. 68. Olathe. KS 66061 •SHADE, HAZEL. (R) P.O. Box 24368, Huber Heights, OH 45424 vOLIVER, L S. 5115 N. Carefree Cir., Colorado Springs, CO 80917 SHANK, JOHN H. (R) 2204 Braeburn E. Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46219 w ______vOLIVER, W. CHARLES. 1919 N. Amidon, Suite 220, Wichita, KS •SHARP, ALBERT. (C) 7110 N.W. 46th St, Bethany, OK 73008 67203 •WADE, E. BRUCE. (R) 3029 Sharpview Ln, Dallas, TX 75228 ♦SHARR CHARLES. (R) 11147 E. Indian Lake Or, Vicksburg, Ml ONEY, HOBERT, (R) 3832 Chah Dr., Zephyrhills, FL 34248 •WALKER, BRIAN & DEBI. (R) P.O. Box 25964, Colorado Springs, CO 49097 OVERTON, BILL it DOT. (C) Family Evangelists and Chalk Artist c/o 80936 SHARR ROBERT. (R) Rte. 2, Rock Falls, IL 61071 Evangelism Ministries' vWALKER, LAWRENCE. 114 8th St. N.E, New Philadelphia, OH •SHEPHERD, WILEY (R) 1324 Gen. MacArthur Dr, Brentwood, TN OWENS, DENNY G. (C) 6802 N.W. 45th, Bethany, OK 73008 44663 37027 ♦OYLER, CALVIN k VIRGINIA. (C) P.O. Box 727, Wellsville, KS 66092 VWALLACE, J. C. P.O. Box 2183, Plant City, FL 33566 •SHIRLEY, DWIGHT. (C) 38092 Butcher Rd, Leetonia, OH 44431 •WALTERS, DAVID. (R) 171 S. Madison, Bradley, IL 60915 SICKENBERGER, ARDEN A. (R) 3803 W. Walnut Yakima, WA 98902 WALTON, JAMES. (R) 203 E. Bond, Patoka, IL 62875 P ______•SIMMONS, IRVIN. (R) 3216 N. Peniel, Bethany, OK 73008 •WARD, DAVID. (R) 7137 Castlecrest Dr, Dayton, OH 45424 SIMPSON, EDWIN C. (R) 10 Wimbledon Way. Tabernacle, NJ 08081 WARNER, C. LEROY. (C) Rte. 1, Box 396-116, Paradise Palms Tri Ct, PALMER, JAMES E. (C) R.R. 6, Box 171, New Castle, IN 47362 vSMITH, CHARLES HASTINGS. Box 937, Bethany, OK 73008 Dover, FL 33527 PALMER, NORMAN. (R) 200 W. Branigan Rd., Franklin, IN 46131 SMITH, DOYLE. (C) Rte. 2, Box 1050, Wrightsville, GA 31096 vWARNOW, ROBERT E. 701 Grand Ave, Aliquippa, PA 15001 VPARIS, WENDELL O. P.O. Box 159, Henryetta, OK 74437 ♦SMITH, DUANE. (C) c/o Evangelism Ministries' vWATKINS, FRANK. P.O. Box 715, Banning, CA 92220 vPARSONS, T. O. 4025 Gossett Dr., Wichita Falls, TX 76308 SMITH, GEORGE E. (R) 9378 Watson Rd, Wolverine, Ml 49799 vWATSON, LOY. 2018 Country Club, Enid, OK 73701 •PASSMORE, DOROTHY. (C) P.O. Box 202, Snydertown, PA 17877 vSMITH, HAROLD. 3711 Germania Rd, Snover, M l 4 8 4 7 2 WEBB, SHARON. (R) P.O. Box 61, Waco, KY 40385 PATTERSON, ROBERT i FRANCES. (R) 373 Richlandtown Pk, •SMITH, JERRY i BETH. (R) 3629 A Helen Ln, East Ridge, TN 37412 •WEBSTER, KENNETH D. (R) 4536 Plummer Ct, Montgomery, AL Quakertown, PA 18951 ♦SMITH, LARRY. (C) 547 Kiely Blvd., No. 4, San Jose, CA 95117 36106 PAUL, CHARLES. (C) Rte. 11, Box 238-C, Crossville, TN 38555 VSMITH, M. EUGENE. 205 Drayton St, Winnsboro, SC 29180 •WELCH, MRS. DARLENE. (R) 8302 Laverne Dr, Louisville, KY 40299 PAYNE, DAVID. (R) 2710 Maroon Bells Ave., Colorado Springs, CO vSMITH, OTTIS E., JR. 60 Grant St, Tidioute, PA 16351 VWELCH, FRANCES M. (R) 10338 Carreta Ct, Santee, CA 92071 80918 SNELLGROVE, HENRY G. (R) 3587 Thornhill Dr, Jacksonville, FL WELCH, W. B. (C) 5328 Edith St, Charleston Heights, SC 29405 PEAL DONALD. (C) P.O. Box 518. Rowlett TX 75088 32211 ♦WELLS, GENE. (R) Rte. 1, Box 174B, Thompsonville, IL 62890 ♦PENDLETON, JOHN.(R) 1116 S.W. 72nd, Oklahoma City, OK 73139 SNYDER, BILL G. (R) 9935 Columbus-Cincinnati Rd, South WELLS, LINARD. (C) P.O. Box 531527, Grand Prairie, TX 75053 PERDUE, NELSON. (C) 3732 E. Rte. 245, Cable. OH 43009 Charleston, OH 45368 WESLEY, E. RUTH. (R) Rte. 1, Box 143, Springport, IN 47386 ♦PFEIFER, DON, EVANGELISTIC TEAM. (C) P.O. Box 93, Washing­ SOUTHERLAND, SAMUEL (R) 4404 Clinton Ave, Jacksonville, FL WHEELER, FREDERICK F. (R) 3814 Barnard Ave, Kalamazoo, Ml ton Court House, OH 43160 32207 49008 PFEIFER, MARK. (R) 910 Briar Ave., Washington Court House, OH SPARKS, JONATHAN D. (R) 11323 S. W. 165th Terr, Miami, FL 33157 WHEELOCK, GEORGE E. (R) P.O. Box 126, Petersburg, IL 62675 43160 SPEARS, DANNY. (R) Rte. 5, Box 400, Conway, AR 72032 •WHITE, JANIE. (C) Rte. 2, Box 775, Hawkins, TX 75765 vPHILLIPS, JACK. 7328 Yarberry Ln., Little Rock, AR 72209 •SPEER, BROCK. (C) 5318 Anchorage Or, Nashville, TN 37204 •WHITWORTH, MARCUS It DONNA (C) 1513 W. Santa Fe, Olathe, PHILPOT, LARRY. (R) 117 Kay Dr, Middletown, OH 45042 vSPROSS, BERYL P.O. Box 201, Bee Spring, KY 42207 KS 66061 PHIPPS, TILLIE. (R) Rte. 2, Box 477, Oxford, MS 38655 STANIFORTH, KEN. (C) 44566 3rd St. East Lancaster, CA 93535 WILCOX, WALTER. (C) Rte. 3, O'Leary, P.E.I. COB 1V0 CANADA ♦PICKERING, ROUND. (R) Box 160102, Altamonte Springs, FL vSTANLEY, HARRY T. 1111 Highgate St, Kalamazoo, Ml 49007 vWILKINSON, LLOYD. 2840 18th St, Columbus, IN 47201 32716-0102 •STANTON, TED i< DONNA. (R) P.O. Box 722, Sarasota, FL 34230 •WILKINSON, MARGARET. (R) 2840 18th St, Columbus, IN 47201 •PIERCE, CATHERINE. (C) 1427 Meitzler St, Danville, IL 61832 STARK, EDDIE. (C) 6906 N.W. 36th, Bethany, OK 73008 ♦WILLERSON, BILLY. (R) 1113 Cambell Ave, Virginia Beach, VA PITTENGER, TWYLA. (R) 413 N. Bowman St, Mansfield, OH 44903 STEINERT, EDWARD J. (R) R.R. 2, Stardust Hills, Box 218-593, 23456 POSEY, WARREN. (C) 433 Monroe St, Fortville, IN 46040 Cloverdale, IN 46120 WILLIAMS, C. PHILIP. (R) 259 W. 5th St, Winona, MN 55987 V POTTER, HAROLD J. 2926 Randa Blvd., Sarasota, FL 33580 STEVENSON, GEORGE. (C) 4021 Pebble Dr. S.E., Roanoke, VA 24014 vWILLIAMS, E. VERBAL. 4925 Cypress Garden Rd, Lot 22, Winter ♦POWELL FRANK. (C) 13579 Colter Rd, Caldwell, ID 83605 STEWART, ORVILLE. (R) R.R. 2, Box 658A, Hawesville, KY 42348 Haven, FL 33880 V PRICE, JACK L P.O. Box 395, Waxhaw, NC 28173 •STONE, LOIS. (R) 618 N. Lockwood, Chicago, IL 60644 •WILLIAMS, EILEEN. (R) 21 Robert E. Lee Ln, West Chester, OH ♦PRICE, JOHN. (C) Rte. 4, Box 326-1, Muldrow, OK 74948 ♦STONE, PAUL. (R) Lakeland Manor, Shell Lake, WI 54871 45069 vPRICE, ROSS E. 1540 Hiawatha Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80915 STREET, DAVID. (C) Rte. 1, Ramsey, IN 47166 WILLIAMS, LAWRENCE. (C) 6715 N.W. 30th Terr, Bethany, OK 73008 •PRINTUP, JUANITA (R) 1207 Scott Ave, Fort Wayne, IN 46807 STRICKLAND, R. L. “DICK.” (C) 1141 Vtoodhaven Ct, Springfield, OH WILLIAMS, R. T, JR. (R) 326 Elmington Ave, Nashville, TN 37205 PURSLEY, PHILIP. (R) 334 S. Fork Terrace Rd, Glasgow, KY 42141 45503 WILSON, ARNO (R) 3919 State Rte. 46, West Harrison, IN 47060 VPUTNAM, ROBERT E. 319 Humphrey St, Dracut, MA 01826 SULLIVAN, DAVID P. (R) P.O. Box 1836, Ashland, KY 41105-1836 •WILSON, CHARLES. (R) 909 S.W. 45th, Oklahoma City, OK 73109 •PYLES, RICK. (R) 607 Moulton PI, Portsmouth, OH 45662 •SUMWALT, JOSEPH I, VIRGINIA. (R) Box 8, Warren, IN 46792 WILSON, CLAUDE. (R) 6719 Base Rd, Columbus, IN 47203 SWANSON, ROBERT L. (C) 1102 Glenwood Dr, Yukon, OK 73099 •WILSON, J. BARRY. (R) Rte. 1, Box 182R, Temple, TX 76501 WILSON, RONALD. (R) 421 College Hill Ave, Oskaloosa, IA 52577 Q______•WISNER, ALMA. (R) 7900 Salem St, Rte. 4, Vicksburg, Ml 49097 vQUALLS, PAUL M. 5441 Lake Jessamine Dr, Orlando, FL 32809 T ______VWITHROW, JAMES. P.O. Box 4424, Charleston, WV 25364 •TACKETT, GAYLE. (R) 4832 Taylorsville Rd, Dayton, OH 45424 WOFFORD, DAVID L (R) 118 Fairdale Rd, Albertville, AL 35950 TAYLOR EVANGELISTIC TEAM, BOBBY L (R) Rte. 1,477-B32, South WOLFGANG, DONALD D. (R) P.O. Box 541, West Branch, Ml 48661 R ______Shore, KY 41175 WOMACK, PAUL W. (R) 2831 Harrison, Quincy, IL 62301 RADEBAUGH, B. D. (R) 1608 S. College, Tulsa, OK 74104 vTAYLOR, BRUCE T. 2122 Valley Dr, Marion, IN 46953 WOMACK, ROBERT. (R) 14 Dunham, Texarkana, TX 75503 VRAKER, W. C. 710 E. Ave. L, Lewistown, IL 61542 TAYLOR, CLIFF (C) E. 619 32nd Ave, Spokane, WA 99203 vWOOD, DENVER. 3 E. 41st St, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 VREAZIN, LAURENCE i LEONE. P.O. Box 130162, Tyler, TX 74713 VTAYLOR, EMMETT. 937 Bradley Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73127 WOODWARD, FAMILY EVANGELISM S. OREN. (C) c/o Evangelism REED, DOROTHY. (C) P.O. Box 814, Hannibal, MO 63401 vTAYLOR, MENDELL. 1716 N. Glade, Bethany, OK 73008 Ministries' REED, SHERMAN R. (R) 1232 Oakwood Trail, Indianapolis, IN 46260 TAYLOR, ROBERT W. (C) Learn to Live International, Box 669, Wright vWOOLMAN, J. L. P.O. Box 867, Tuttle, OK 73089 RENEGAR, WALLACE R. (R) 6105 Westpark Dr, Oklahoma City, OK Brothers Branch, Dayton, OH 45409 WOOTEN, D. J. (C) P.O. Box 262, Cambridge, MD 21613 73142-4415 TAYLOR, RON. (C) Rte. 1, Box 265, Johnson Rd, Chickamauga, GA vWRIGHT, AUSTIN, 1198 Jamaica Rd, Venice, FL 33595 RICHARDS, JERRY. (R) 612 N. Grant. Chanute, KS 66720 30707 WRIGHT, E. GUY. (C) 1531 Cranbrook Dr, Charleston, WV 25311 •RICHARDS, LARRY it PHYLLIS (COULTER). (C) 2310 Appleton Dr, VTHOMAS, HOYLE C. P.O. Box 72, Nampa, ID 83653 WYLIE, CHARLES R. (C) P.O. Box 298, Aubrey, TX 76227 Indianapolis, IN 46227 vTHOMAS, J. MELTON. 3619 Skyline Dr, Nampa, ID 83686 vWYRICK, DENNIS, 603 Reed Dr, Frankfort, KY 40601 RICHARDSON, KEN. (C) 1621 31st St, A, Moline, IL 61265 •THOMPSON, ROBERT & TERESA. (R) P.O. Box 21467, Chat­ RICKEY, HOWARD. (C) 1827 Stone Rd, Xenia, OH 45385 tanooga, TN 37421 VRIFFLE, BRADY 0 . 4154 Bowman Hill Rd, Huntington, WV 25701 ♦THORNTON, REV. li MRS. WALLACE. (C) Rte. 4, Box 49-B, Y ______RISNER, SUSAN L (R) Coble Village Park, No. 40. Willard, OH 44890 Somerset, KY 42501 •YATES, GREG. (C) 505 E. Alabama, Casey, IL 62420 ROBERTSON, IAN. (R) 236 E. Walnut, No. H, Monrovia, CA 91016 vTHRASHER, OREN D. 2414 High Pine Dr, Louisville, KY 40214 •YOUNG, LOWELL. (R) 10209 Cliff Circle, Tampa, FL 33612 Compassionate Ministries Conference for USA and Canada

CONFERENCE THEME: The Church Meeting Human Need

TOM NEES IS KEYNOTE SPEAKER

D r. Tom Nees, introduced by ton, D.C., First Church of the Nazarene Church Growth Division Di­ to establish the Community of Hope in rector Bill M. Sullivan as the symbolic Nazarene compassionate min­ istries leader in the United States and "The growing passion Canada, served as the keynote speaker for the Compassionate Ministries Con­ for compassionate ference in Kansas City on November ministries is a 3-5, 1989. Sullivan explained that re­ sponsibility for compassionate minis­ movement led by tries in the United States and Canada has been assigned to the Church the Holy Spirit.” Growth Division by the denomination. —Tom Nees The Division administers 20% of the funds Nazarenes give for this purpose. In response to the call of God, Nees 1975. In his presentation, Nees said resigned the pastorate of the Washing­ justification and rationale are no longer Dr. Tom Nees, founder, director and pastor of Community of Hope, W ash­ ington, D.C.: keynote speaker and sym­ bolic leader of compassionate ministry among Nazarenes.

Conference Planners Dr. Bill M. Sullivan, Dr. A1 Trues- General Superintendent Raymond H um calls conference to dale, and Dr. Steve Weber: confer on details before opening prayer: Church Growth Division Director BillM. Sullivan and Dr. Tom session. Nees join conference participants in prayer.

38 GROW / Spring 1990 ■ needed for compassionate ministry among Nazarenes. He called the grow­ ing passion for compassionate minis­ tries a movement being led by the Holy Spirit and springing up in usual places. Nees expressed a conviction that gener­ osity for one part of the church’s mis­ sion never robs money from another part. He explained there is enough money and energy to support the glob­ al Nazarene vision for both overseas missions and compassionate needs in Michael J. Christensen leads a workshop: and explains the ministry of Golden Gate North America. Community in San Francisco.

"The first service of a Holy Ghost- baptized church is to the poor.” —Phineas F. Bresee

Approximately 350 persons partici­ pated in this Second Nazarene Com­ passionate Ministries Conference in Overland Park, Kansas. The confer­ ence, planned especially for students, focused on the theme "The Church Meeting Human Need.” Other persons attending the conference included pas­ tors, lay leaders, district superintend­ David Wheeler, Operation Care, Port- Bryon Stone shares his vision: for Lib- ents, educators, headquarters person­ land, Oregon: discusses shelter for the eration Community at Fort Worth, Texas, nel, and compassionate ministry prac- homeless in transition homes.

"The Church Growth Division has been given responsibility for compassionate ministries in the United States and Canada and administers 20% of all church funds given for this purpose.” —Bill M. Sullivan Dean Cowles shares his dream: for Shepherd Community in Indianapolis.

IA Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship I 39 titioners. It was interesting to observe how many persons now leading various compassionate ministries participated as students at the first conference held four years earlier. Plenary speakers included Ron Ben- efiel, senior pastor of Los Angeles First Church; Timothy Smith, professor of history at Johns Hopkins University; Pastor Larry Lott, pastor of Kansas City Blue Hills Community and Cheryll Sanders, professor at How­ Church of the Nazarene, preaching during the Sunday service. ard School of Divinity. Larry Lott, senior pastor of the Kansas City Blue Hills Community Church of the Naza­ rene, was the preacher for the worship service. "The plenary speakers were prophet­ Compassionate Ministries Con- ic,” observed A1 Truesdale, academic erence 1989 sounds like a fulfillment dean at Nazarene Theological Seminary of Bresee’s insightful words: "The first and one of the organizers of the confer­ service of a Holy Ghost-baptized ence. Truesdale also praised the work­ church is to the poor; its ministry is to shop leaders for the quality and profes­ those who are lowest down; its gifts are sionalism of their presentations. There for those who need them the most. As were 16 workshops dealing with topics the Spirit was upon Jesus to preach the ranging from AIDS and health care to gospel to the poor, so His Spirit is upon addictive and abusive behavior. Other His servants for the same purpose.” In workshops discussed job training, many places, the work of compassion housing the homeless, networking with moves forward at an amazing speed in other churches, and the relationship Jesus’ name as Nazarenes respond in between social compassion and per­ increasing numbers with love, trust, sonal salvation. time, and treasure. Lois Smith, director of health services at Community of Hope, Washington, D.C., leads a workshop.

Professor Cheryll Sanders, Howard Divinity School, W ashington, D.C., i Blue Hills Community Church choir leads in worship. and physician Gary Morsch of Olathe, Kansas, share insights. Dr. Sanders was plenary speaker on Saturday night.

40 / Spring 1990i HAS YOUR CHURCH

STRUCK OUT?

According to pastors' reports, more than 700 LOCAL CHURCHES have shared more than 13,000,000 spendable dollars that came into their coffers through bequests in wills over the last four years.

THAT'S RIGHT, I SAID,

O V E R $ 1 3 , 0 0 0 , 0 0 0

Has your local church "struck out"? How long has it been since a Life Income Gifts Services representative presented a wills seminar for your congregation? The seminars are a free service of your general church. Only a free-will offering for the representative is requested.

LIFE INCOME GIFTS SERVICES Church of the Nazarene 6401 The Paseo Kansas City, MO 64131 Rev. Robert D. H em pel, D ire c to r

Nam e: Telephone:

Address:

Church: District:

( ) Please send the brochure, "Answers to All the Questions You Have Wanted to Ask About Life Income Gifts Services."

( ) I/W e would like to talk to someone about scheduling a wills seminar at our church. Coming to you each quarter from Pastoral Ministries, Wilbur Brannon, Director

wanted. We may be wondering how came. The church board will look at much we are appreciated where we the pastor in a way different from are and how much we are accom­ when they first gave the initial call. plishing in our ministry. We may be The relationship between the pastor tempted to make the change for very and church will again be benefited if CALLING weak if not wrong reasons. they look at their covenant objectives The 1989 General Assembly took a and mission statement around the one- major step in helping pastors and year anniversary date. Actually, this GROWING churches get off to a good start in es­ should be good preparation for the tablishing the kind of relationships that two-year self-study required by Manual could make for stability and growth. to which the district superintendent is PASTORS At the time of the initial call there will invited and may participate. be understandings reached based on Another significant part of this pro­ A New Approach in information exchanged by the church cess of building enduring and positive Developing Pastor/ board and prospective pastor prior to relationships is the time of “The Regu­ and during an interview process. lar Pastoral Review.” It takes place in a Church Relationships These understandings are written 121-day window, which is 60 days on down on a form or in a letter and pro­ either side of the second anniversary vide the basis of the church’s mission date of the pastor’s initial call. The re­ statement. The relationship of the new view is not to be only on the pastor. ^ Je ttin g a call from a church can be pastor and the church is strengthened Rather it is a review of the relationship exciting. We think of the new possi­ when they commit themselves to a between the pastor and church and bilities! It could be timely in escaping shared understanding of God’s will their progress toward their goals and from old problems. There would be dif­ uniquely suited for them in their minis­ objectives agreed on. ferent people, fresh beginnings, stimu­ try setting. Our former procedures have been lating challenges, another cultural set­ If the pastor accepts the call of the quite casual at the front end of the ting. It might mean better schools for church, a “Bonding Service” (a service pastor/church relationships. But in the our children, welcome climate for our of installation) is to take place as early process of taking many things for health, or an increase in family in­ as possible. Ideally, it should be the granted in the beginning of our tenure come. pastor’s first service with the people. it was easy to build our ministry on Whatever may be said about re­ The district superintendent or some­ untenable assumptions. The lack of un­ ceiving a call from another church we one he designates will be in charge derstanding at the time of the initial have to admit it feels good to be and may bring the message. To bring a call too often erupted in severe disap­ sense of bonding between the pastor pointment. and congregation the pastor might re­ In this new approach the call to take count the way God confirmed this seriously our responsibility in establish­ move as His will. In response a highly ing and developing strong relationships respected layperson may give a brief is a call to grow. We don’t work historical statement on the church and through problems and resolve differ­ their vision for the future at this junc­ ences without growing spiritually and ture. emotionally. Too often pastors have This bonding service is designed to run from their problems either by not engage the pastor and people in a cov­ having a vote or by denying any re­ enant with God and with each other. sponsibility for a bad vote. The covenant expresses the responsi­ The new procedures offer the pas­ bilities each has to the other and all tor and church the opportunity to have to God for accomplishing the mis­ work together in solving problems and sion of the church. A prayer of conse­ resolving differences for their mutual cration with pastor and people around growth and effectiveness to the glory the altar would be an appropriate way of God and the advancement of His to climax the service. kingdom. As pastors we are brought The new Manual requires a “Self- into accountability in an environment study” at the end of a two-year period. that can be creative and redemptive, However, it is to the benefit of the pas­ mutually upbuilding. tor as well as to the church to review St. Paul states, “Speaking the truth and revise the written understandings in love, we will in all things grow up and the covenant or mission statement into him, who is the Head, that is, between 90 to 180 days after the new Christ” (Eph. 4:15). The call of God is Wilbur W. Brannon pastor is installed. The pastor will have a call to grow. So the call of the Pastoral Ministries Director insights not possible when he first church is to a growing pastor! EADERSHIP NSPIRATION ULFILLMENT NRICHMENT

Course of Study Update... 1989 HANDBOOK ON or completed assignments, covenants, BOOK CHANGES MINISTERIAL STUDIES projects, and reflection papers kept for evaluation.” The following reading book has NOW AVAILABLE You may secure a copy of the Hand­ been deleted: book by writing: Nazarene Publishing Steps to the Sermon, by H. C. The Handbook on Ministerial Stud­ Brown, Elder, Level II, No. 124d. ies has been updated to reflect the leg­ House, P.O. Box 419527, Kansas City, The following reading books have islative action of the 1989 General As­ MO 64141. been added: sembly. Pay special attention to the Ministerial Leadership in a Manage­ new supervised field education require­ NEW INTERACTIVE rial World, by Bruce Jones, all tracks, ments. HMS 4 4 2 .6 states: COURSE OF STUDY “Supervised Field Education. In ad­ Level I, Nos. 115d, 215d, 315d, 415d. dition to the educational requirements VIDEOS PLANNED for each method of preparation a stu­ Introduction to Christian Theology, In addition to those courses already by H. Orton Wiley and Paul T. Cul­ dent will fulfill a minimum supervised completed, plans are being made to field education requirement. This re­ bertson, all tracks, Level III, Nos. begin production on Exploring Chris­ 132e, 232e, 332e, 432e. quirement may be met by using one of tian Holiness, Vol II, Exploring the Old A Breath of Fresh Air, by Richard the following methods: Testament, and Exploring Christian Spindle, Deacon-Christian Education, 1. Supervised field education ex­ Holiness, Vol. III. Level IV, No. 245d. perience noted on a The video presentation is divided college/seminary transcript. The following reading books are into sixteen 15-minute segments. The out-of-print: 2. A one year’s experience on a on-screen instructor guides the stu­ Proclaiming the Truth, by Donald staff in a local church under the dents through the material that accom­ Demaray, Elder, Level IV, No. 144d. supervision of an approved min­ panies the tape. After viewing all six­ Youth Education in the Church, by ister. teen segments and completing the Roy Zuck and Warren Benson, 3. Completing the Ministry Intern­ specified reading and study exercises Deacon-Christian Education, Level IV, the students are ready to take an ship program provided by Pas­ No. 244a. toral Ministries. exam especially prepared for the video In the Land of the Living, by Karin 4. Certified supervisory ministry course. Granberg Michaelson, Deacon- practice components in a variety Courses already available are: Ex­ Compassionate Ministries, Level IV, of courses. ploring the New Testament, The Master No. 345d. “Evidence of satisfactory work com­ Plan of Evangelism, Exploring Our Contact Pastoral Ministries for their pleted in the supervised field educa­ Christian Faith, Alive in Christ, Church replacements. tion experience will be submitted to History in Plain Language, and Intro­ the Ministerial Studies Board for evalu­ duction to Homiletics. ation . . . The student may use the syl­ Contact Pastoral Ministries for costs labi of the instructor and/or supervisor and order information.

RESOURCES NOW AVAILABLE THROUGH NPH

The Ministry Internship and the F-L-A-M-E material is now available through Nazarene Publishing House. If you are a new pastor interested in building a stron­ ger ministry through the wisdom and experience of a mentor, the Ministry Internship program is for you. The F-L-A-M-E material is designed to help the pas­ tor establish his spiritual leadership among his congrega­ tion. Exciting things are happening in churches who have used this material. Contact Nazarene Publishing House and order your MINISTRY INTERNSHIP copies today!

■ EDUCATION SERVICES

“Education in the Church of the Nazarene, rooted in the biblical and theological com­ mitments of the Wesleyan and Holiness movements and accountable to the stated mis­ sion of the denomination, aims to guide those who look to it in accepting, in nurtur­ ing, and in expressing in service to the Church and World consistent and coherent Christian understandings of social and individual life.” Educational Mission Statement adopted by the Twenty-second General Assembly of the Church of the Nazarene

General Assembly action, based on the work of the Education Commission, provides for: ■ An International Board of Education to be a general church advocate for educational institu­ tions in the Church of the Nazarene worldwide. ■ An Education Commissioner to administer the work of the International Board of Education and serve as consultant, advocate, and adviser to undergraduate and graduate level Nazarene institutions worldwide. ■ An International Higher Education Council, together with regional councils, to coordinate Nazarene Higher Educational interests worldwide.

The International Higher Education Council will consist of the President, Principal, or Rector of these Nazarene institutions: Africa Nazarene University, Dr. Mark R. Moore, Provost Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary, Dr. John M. Nielson, President Australasian Nazarene Bible College, Dr. Robert Dunn, Principal British Isles Nazarene College, Rev. Herbert McGonigle, President Canadian Nazarene College, Dr. Neil Hightower, President Caribbean Nazarene Theological College, Dr. Joseph Murugan, President Eastern Nazarene College, Dr. Cecil Paul, President European Nazarene Bible College, Dr. Robert Woodruff, Interim President Indonesia Nazarene Bible College, Rev. Kuncara Candra, Director Instituto Biblico Nazareno, Rev. Rogelio Fernandez, Director Japan Christian Junior College, Rev. Shin Kitagawa, President Japan Nazarene Theological Seminary, Rev. Shin Kitagawa, President Korean Nazarene Theological College, Dr. William Patch, President Luzon Nazarene Bible College, Rev. Ernesto Rulloda, President MidAmerica Nazarene College, Dr. Richard Spindle, President Mount Vernon Nazarene College, Dr. LeBron Fairbanks, President Nazarene Bible College, Dr. Jerry Lambert, President Nazarene Theological College, Dr. Bruce Taylor, Rector Nazarene Theological Seminary, Dr. Terrell C. Sanders, Jr., President Northwest Nazarene College, Dr. Gordon Wetmore, President Olivet Nazarene University, Dr. Leslie Parrott, President Point Loma Nazarene College, Dr. Jim Bond, President Seminario e Instituto Biblico da Igreja do Nazareno, Rev. J. Elton Wood, Director Dr. Donald D. Owens, Seminario Nazareno de las Americas, Dr. Enrique Guang, Director Responsible General Seminario Nazareno Mexicano, A.C., Dr. Alberto Guang, Rector Superintendent for Education Seminario Teologico Nazareno Sudamericano, Rev. Wilfredo Canales, Director Services, confers with Siteki Nazarene Bible College, Mr. P. Ken Walker, Principal Dr. Stephen W. Nease, Education Commissioner Southern Nazarene University, Dr. Loren Gresham, President Taiwan Nazarene Theological College, Rev. Robert McMurdock, Director Trevecca Nazarene College, Dr. Homer Adams, President Visayan Nazarene Bible College, Miss Julie Macainan, President A City Waits ♦ ♦ * Toronto CANADA’S LARGEST CITY IS 1990 THRUST CITY PROJECT

Toronto, Canada is Thrust City for 1990. Marjorie Osborne is the Target Toronto Coordina­ tor. Marjorie is a native Torontonian and continues to live there with her husband Ed and sons Andrew and Michael. Marjorie has been a layperson in the Church of the Nazarene for thirty-three years, serving in many capacities both at the local and district levels. She is a member of the Canadian Executive Board. Rev. Michael Estep, Director of Thrust to the Cities International, interviews Marjorie on the plans, preparation, and progress of the Toronto Thrust.

Michael Estep: The Canadian Exec­ utive Board for the Church of the Nazarene agreed that Toronto should be proposed for the Thrust to the Cities program. Why was Toronto their choice?

M arjorie Osborne: Although Canada stretches 5,000 miles from the Atlantic to the Pacific, sixty percent of all Cana­ dians live within five hundred miles of Toronto. This population concentra­ tion, plus the fact that Toronto is the financial and cultural hub of the coun­ try, makes it a strategic city in the development of the Church of the Naz- arene in Canada. Toronto is also a very multi-cultural city. Only forty-seven percent of the population is Anglo. The other fifty-three percent represents eighty different languages. You can see that Toronto is an ideal city to plant the Church of the Nazarene among the many people that make up our nation.

Estep: W hat were some of the chal­ lenges that immediately came to Toronto skyline: The Population Hub of Canada. mind as you began to prepare for the Thrust? become involved in outreach minis­ Estep: How well-known is the tries? Would we be willing to accept Church of the Nazarene in Canada O sborne: The spiritual challenges new people groups into our existing and Toronto in particular? seemed most important. W e needed congregations and offer our buildings a much larger vision of what God for new churches? W e needed to plan Osborne: As a matter of fact, we have wanted us to be. W e needed initiative for our acitivites and our budgets to an image problem. The Church of the to grow and to plant churches. Would include outreach. W e needed to try Nazarene in Canada is still considered a there be inspired laypeople who would new things in new ways. cult by many. There are only 150 Naza-

■ A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship ■ rene Churches in all of Canada. The Another very real challenge is the lack vision by making a presentation in all eleven in Toronto at the start of the of Nazarene pastors in Canada. There our Canadian District Assemblies, in Thrust had an average attendance of are not enough to fill existing pulpits, most churches on Canada Central Dis­ 1,185. Most of the 4 1/2-million people in let alone staff new church plants. With trict, and in several churches across Toronto haven’t heard of us yet, so the the help of Canadian Nazarene College Canada. As a result, prayer support has need for a greater vision and a stronger we have launched the Toronto Institute been pledged and start-up funds have base was immediately apparent. of Lay Training (TILT) in order to pre­ been raised. The Target Toronto news­ pare laypeople to fill the gap as bi- letter has been published every two Estep: W hat are some of the other vocational pastors, interim pastors, and months for two years and will continue. challenges that confront you? church planters. W e also are laying the groundwork for an Extension Bible Estep: What about the Vision for Osborne: The cost of land and build­ Institute under the auspices of Naza­ Greatness Rallies? I know I was a ings makes ownership impossible at rene Bible College and Canadian Naz­ part of one. W hat do you feel they this time. Land in downtown Toronto, arene College to train pastors in their achieved? if any becomes available through dem­ own cultural context. olition, is twenty million an acre. Forty Osborne: W e’ve actually had four miles out of the city centre, an acre sells Estep: W hat have you been doing in Vision for Greatness Rallies in prepa­ for three hundred thousand. Modest preparation for your Thrust year? ration for the Thrust. They have pro­ three-bedroom bungalows sell for four vided a forum for church planting and hundred thousand and rent for around Osborne: One advantage we have had evangelism. Each rally has seen an increasing excitement and eagerness to get involved in outreach ministries. W e hear testimonies from new converts, extension Bible study leaders, new church planters, and enjoy an inspiring message and some great music. The Vision for Greatness Rallies have now been replaced by Target Toronto Cele­ bration Services that bring the metro churches together to baptize new believ­ ers and praise the Lord for all He’s doing. Celebration for every victory is so worthwhile and joyful. God is in­ deed using these services to keep our vision clear and strong!

Estep: You’ve also had some work­ shops in preparation for 1990.

Osborne: Yes, two Church Planting Workshops co-hosted with Church Ex­ tension, two on Church Growth and Evangelism, and one dealing with Com­ passionate Ministries. W e have been privileged to have some wonderful teachers, such as Dr. Charles Chaney, Dr. Carl Clendenen, Dr. Charles Shaver, and Dr. Tom Nees, come and help us prepare. Toronto’s street people: They need to hear the gospel now. Estep: You mentioned ten goals for Target Toronto. What are those fifteen hundred a month. Urban rene­ is three good years to get ready. W e had goals? wal is bringing wealth to the downtown time for the Target Toronto Commit­ core and pushing the poverty to the tee to do the research resulting in the Osborne: Well, in abbreviated form, suburbs. Rent for one service each twenty-four-page proposal which out­ they are: to strengthen the Church of Sunday in a school gym costs between lines our ten objectives and how we the Nazarene in Canada; to plant twenty- six and nine hundred a month. Other plan to accomplish them. It is literally seven new churches, ten among new space is scarce and even more expen­ our faith on paper and keeps us on language groups; to organize and oper­ sive, so sharing owned and rented track. W e’ve been able to some extent ate four Christian counseling centers in buildings to the maximum is a must. to involve the whole country in our needy neighborhoods; to promote and

46 GROW / Spring 1990 ■ coordinate the ministry of Christian Osborne: Wonderful response, I’d say! shine Clubs in an area where we were day-care in Nazarene churches; to estab­ It’s a beautiful thing to be on the receiv­ soon to start a new church, a Moslem lish a government-sponsored, church- ing end of work and witness for a man whose children had enjoyed the operated seniors’ residence and sen­ change. Last summer (1988), we had Clubs gave them a real dressing-down iors’ day-care assistance programs; to six teams — five from the USA and one from his apartment balcony for propa­ equip and train people for Target Tor­ from Canada. One team from Okla­ gating Christianity. His wife and three onto ministries; to appoint appropriate homa put fifty-three gallons of paint on children were present at the first serv­ Target Toronto committees to carry an old downtown church, built a new ice of the new church and have come out the proposal; to gain support for pastor’s study, and renovated nursery ever since. I wanted them to know how Target Toronto — 2,000 people to and toddler rooms. Our people have God had used them. pray daily and $1,000,000 raised in been thrilled and encouraged with the finances; to make full and appreciative help. Twelve teams have offered to Estep: I know you are aware of the use of all denominational resources; come in 1990, so far — nine from the vision + people + resources and to participate in Vision 2000 — a USA and three from Canada. There are formula. You’ve mentioned how plan put together by Canadian evangel­ some manual-labor needs, but endless God has brought an increased vi­ icals. Thank God! He is helping us to ministry opportunities as we try to get sion. What about the people and make progress in each one of them! into new communities. W e are so resources? Is the formula working? appreciative of this kind of help. Estep: How are you doing with the new church starts?

Osborne: To date we have one fully organized church — Spanish; six church-type missions — 2 Anglo, 1 Cantonese, 1 Portuguese, 1 Filipino, and 1 Egyptian. W e also have exten­ sion Bible classes and Sunday schools that will very soon provide the nucleus for six more church-type missions.

Estep: And the compassionate min­ istry goals? How about them?

Osborne: Our first Christian day-care has been operating for two years, and a second for one month. The first one, "Some Place Special,” is now training early childhood workers and is consid­ ered by metro social services to be an excellent model. Day-care is a great need in our city, where 90,000 spaces are required and only 23,000 licensed spaces exist. Two counseling centers are operating on a part-time basis, Cove­ nant Counseling and Live and Learn. It is not unusual to wait four months to see a Christian psychologist in this city. The sharing center in the rejuvenated Grace Church of the Nazarene provides Toronto church buildings are shared by several congregations: This helps solve food, clothing, ESL, and Christian high building costs. counseling. There are 90,000 people who visit food banks each month in Toronto. Many must pay sixty-five Estep: What about Youth In Mis­ Osborne: I remember when I started percent of their wages to keep a roof sion? You’ve had teams come? in as Thrust Coordinator you told me over their heads, and so grocery money to keep a list of miracles because there runs out. W e have not yet launched Osborne: Yes! And again, we are so would be so many, I would forget specialized seniors’ ministry programs, thankful for their work. W e had two them. Some of the best miracles so far but they are next on the agenda. teams in the summer of ’88 and two in have been people. At every step, God ’8 9 .1 had to write a letter to the mem­ brings just the right person along. Mar­ Estep: Have you had much response bers of one team a month after they jorie Serio, the lady who now adminis­ from work and witness teams? left. While they were conducting Sun­ ters "Some Place Special” and is called

A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship 47 on to help set up other centers, not just Estep: And resources? Estep: Have you experienced a good in metro but across Canada, is one of deal of cooperation for the Target these. She came to me one day and said, Toronto effort? "I believe God woke me up last night to Osborne: W e are very much in a trust­ talk to me about Christian day-care.” ing position for resources, but He Osborne: The Toronto pastors are a She had been an insurance underwri­ hasn’t failed us yet. It was certainly the great team. I believe that God has ter. What a gem! Ian Fitzpatrick, a pas­ moving of the Lord that raised $ 19,000 brought each of them to metro for this tor, spoke to me one night after a in twenty minutes at our last District time. They have supported Target Tor­ Target Toronto meeting, "M arj,” he Assembly for the starting of a compas­ onto from the beginning. Our original said, "the Lord just keeps on saying to sionate ministry center. W e hadn’t committee was formed by the pastor me 'Target Toronto, Ian, Target Tor­ even planned to do that, but He took for each church coming and bringing onto.’ If there’s a particular place you over. A major automotive company some interested laypeople with him. I need me, I’m ready.” We prayed about donated $22,000 of new winter clothes. find the pastors supportive, willing to it for a couple of months and now Ian is I don’t know how they knew about us. keep Target Toronto before the peo­ the Church Extension Director for A lady in a town an hour away from ple, participate, and ready to welcome Target Toronto. He is exactly the right Toronto called to say she had twenty- both Ian and myself to their pulpits. person and God knew he would be. We five new quilts ready. A work and wit­ This is not just true of Toronto, but the hoped ten people would enroll in the ness leader says, "W e have $5,000. District, the nation, and our neighbors Toronto Institute for Lay Training. What would you like us to do? A prop­ to the south. Thirty-five have, so far. W e didn’t erty is sold and the advisory board Estep: One more thing. You are a layperson. How did you come to be involved as coordinator for the Toronto Thrust?

Osborne: In September of 1 9 8 4 ,1 was doing the dishes and looking at the brown shingles of the roof next door when I distinctly felt the Lord say to me, "There’s going to be a change in your life.” Looking back, I can see why He wanted to warn me. A few months later, I was a delegate to the General Assembly in Anaheim. Whatever hap­ pened, it seemed that the Lord was say­ ing to me over and over, "Ten thou­ sand Canadian Nazarenes are not enough!” During the Sunday morning stadium service I knew I had to make a response, and I promised the Lord I would give the rest of my life to chang­ ing that number if He would show me how. I came home from Anaheim and accepted an invitation to be "Church Planting Director” for the Rosewood Church. A year later, I was asked to head a committee to formulate the Toronto proposal. When we were des­ ignated Thrust City for 1990, I was T o ro n to ’s children: They need the gospel, too. appointed to see the proposal through to completion as the coordinator. At know where to get pastors for the new invests the money and offers to give the same time, I was elected to the language congregations, but He brought Target Toronto the interest for three Advisory Board and to the Canadian us an Egyptian, a Portuguese, a Fili­ years. I think I have, as usual, underes­ Executive Board. I believe the Lord has pino, a Hispanic, and a Chinese. The timated the goodness of our God. No! taken seriously my commitment to the Lord adds people to vision for sure — Lack of dollars doesn’t keep us from Church of the Nazarene in Canada. I people to lead, and now as the new ministry — lack of desire does. When know He has definitely called me, and works have started, people to be saved the dream is there, the dollars will I’m more than a little amazed at how He and become part of the church! come. is working out that call.

48 GROW / Spring 1990 IF TO DIE is to see with clear vision all mysteries revealed, And away is swept the curtain from joys which an; now concealed; If to die is to greet all the martyrs and prophets and sages ot old, And to joyously meet by still waters the flock of our own little fold; If to die is to join in liosannas to a risen, reigning Lord. And to feast with Him at His table on the bread and wine of His board: If to die is to enter a city and be hailed as a child of its King, 0 grave, where soundeth thy triumph? O death, where hideth thy sting?

This certificate is presented in memory of

.vjhpse n am e lias l>een placed o n tlie fHmorial Hull

Medical Plan helps to provide payment of the medi­ Memorial Roll—A certificate in remembrance of cal expenses for active and retired missionaries and someone who is no longer living. their families. $50.00 each, $25.00 for duplicates Received from: Plate Offerings—Participate by giving any amount Distinguished Service Award—Show your appre­ to Medical Plan. ciation for someone living. Reason for honor docu­ The total amount of Medical Plan funds go toward mented on certificate. health care expenses of our missionaries and count as $100 each 10% credit for your church.

May Is Medical Plan Month in NW M S M ost states are building many new prisons to alleviate overcrowding. What a golden opportunity for Nazarene elders to share the gospel and become involved as correctional chap­ lains in this specialized ministry. The states are anxious to fill vacancies in their new prisons with God-called men and women who are qualified with a wide range of pastoral skills. The objective of correctional chaplaincy is to provide ministry that is committed to spiritual regeneration and social restora­ tion. It is a demanding ministry but as one in­ ternational prison ministry stated, "those with the greatest need, need the greatest help/' Each state has different requirements, therefore call your state correctional chaplain services administrator or the state personnel office to check on open­ ings and requirements. Most do not have an age restriction and will sometimes substitute seminary for pastoral experi­ ence. The federal government is also building new prisons and looking for chaplains. However, one must be under 35 years of age and have a seminary degree to qual­ ify. If you are looking for a personally en­ riching, challenging, and different minis­ try and believe God can use you as a chaplain in a prison setting to the incar­ cerated, check with your state personnel system or state chaplain for placement and the Chaplaincy Ministries for en­ dorsement. Romans 10:14-15, NIV Mission Achievement in St. Louis and Beyond

Native Son Plants Church in Fulton CHURCH STARTS IH WILLIAM WOODS COLLEGE CHAPEL

G ary Garrett, former Fulton As you walk down Fulton, the home of two colleges — High School and University Westminster College and William of Missouri football star, re­ the street with Gary, Woods College — is located 100 miles turned to his hometown in August west of St. Louis and has a nonstudent 1986 to plant Heartland Church of the you know he population of 11,046. Sir Winston Nazarene. Though critics in Jesus’ day really belongs. Churchill made Westminster College refused to welcome His return to His famous with his historic Iron Curtain hometown of Nazareth, the people of Old neighbors, speech there on March 5, 1946. But Fulton seem pleased to have one of lifelong friends, forty years later, in less dramatic their own ministering among them. though spiritually significant ways, the The new church, organized on Novem­ and the meter maid Nazarenes brought new spiritual oppor­ ber 13, 1988, has 73 members, and recognize him as a tunities to this beautiful small town now more than 100 people often gather USA when a new church started in on Sunday mornings to worship God. well-respected native. William Woods College Chapel on September 21, 1986. Gary and Naomi Garrett left an es­ tablished pastorate in Clinton, Mis­ souri, on the Joplin District to begin this church plant. As you walk down the street with Gary, you know he really belongs. Old neighbors, lifelong friends, and the meter maid recognize him as a well-respected native. People even waved greetings to him from a passing funeral procession led by a fel­ low pastor from another denomination. Pastor Garrett discussed God’s call to this assignment, which he began rec­ ognizing as early as 1980: "W hen asked to start a church in Fulton, I just didn’t feel like I could minister in my home town, yet I had a burden for people in this town, especially my family. This is a strong, conservative holiness area and I didn’t want to offend anyone. I couldn’t come to grips with the fact that I was the person to start the work, but God changed all that. I love the Thurm ond Chapel at W illiam Woods College — first meeting place for new conservative people — that’s my na­ Heartland Church: Location secured by Bonnie Shiver Decker, college registrar and charter ture. And they need God, too.” His member of church.

IA Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship 51

I quiet passion for souls is evident in his conversation and style of ministry. The church’s spiritual vigor and growth show that God was in the tim­ ing of this new work and in the call of the Garretts. In addition to exciting miracles of new converts finding Christ, there are property miracles too. The courts sold the Church of the Nazarene a ten-year-old, ready-made sanctuary and parsonage on a two-acre parcel of land, which is valued at $400,000, for $72,000. This substantial property in­ cludes a church building and educa­ tional unit to serve 250 people, hardly used and earlier abandoned by another religious group, and a comfortable three- bedroom parsonage. In still another miraculous transition, this beginning church purchased 26 acres of commer­ cial land for future development on a growing edge of town for $65,000; the land owner donated $25,000, so the church secured clear title for $40,000. W ith justifiable pride, Fulton’s civic leaders call their special town "M is­ souri’s Crown Jewel.” But to know the church-planting story at Heartland Church is to believe God is building something even more beautiful and lasting for a caring family of believers where persons are won, nurtured, and cherished. Another worthy town has a new church pointing its citizens to the Lord. Superintendent Hiram Sanders and Pastor Gary Garrett at Churchill M em orial: They share spiritual responsibility for Callaway County.

"The district brought Gary Garrett to the Assembly in 1986. That was about the time he began a two-month gathering stage before starting the first service with 70 people.” —Hiram E. Sanders, district superintendent. 26-acre site of future church building: Gary fished on this property as a boy.

I GROW / Spring 19901 Pastor Garrett on Main Street: His vision is to reach the unchurched of his community. "I just didn’t feel that I could minister in my home town, yet I had a burden for my home town, especially my family.”

Pastor tells exciting story of finding a ready-made facility for growing a church: His vision is to fill present church twice each Sunday and then build at new site.

• A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship I 53 PENSIONS ANO BENEFITS

The Nazarene Minister’s Four-Fold Retirement Income Plan Since its beginning, it has not been of good stewardship on the part of the the purpose of the “Basic” Pension minister. An excellent vehicle for Plan to be the full retirement income The Nazarene Minister’s such a personal savings program is the for ministers of the Church of the Nazarene IRA Plan for ministers and Nazarene. Rather, it was established Retirement Income Plan spouses, a plan sponsored by your in 1971 as a base or “floor” on which Board of Pensions and Benefits USA. to build an adequate retirement in­ The Question come. The Nazarene Retirement Pro­ There is one question that is gram is composed of four elements, always timely in a minister’s life; each of which is essential to an Have you made adequate financial adequately funded retirement. / Government Denomination \ I (Social Security) (“Basic” Pension) j provision for your retirement? The 1. Social Security sooner this question can be answered The first source of retirement \ Local Church Personal Savings / “yes,” the better it will be for the \ (T S A ) (IRA, etc.) / income for ministers in the United minister and his family. Though some States lies in their lifelong contribu­ have thought they could not afford to tion to Social Security. (Most local participate, they found by consistently Nazarene churches provide a taxable contributing as little as $10 a month Social Security allowance to their “Are All the pieces in your plan?” (less than $2.50 a week) a nice ministers for payment of the Social balance has grown over the years to Security tax.) Social Security is the effectively assist their retirement fi­ area shared with all other citizens who nances. Every day sooner is a day have also contributed from the salaries Nazarene offers opportunities for its better. they have earned over a lifetime. In ministers to participate in a TSA Additional information is available 1989, the average couple in the U.S., program. Earnings deferred to the from the Pensions office on each of both retiring at age 65, received Nazarene TSA PLan are not taxed as the four elements of an adequate approximately $921 per month from immediate income but are allowed to retirement income. There is no charge this source. accumulate at favorable interest rates for this information—just ask. 2. “Basic” Pension until retirement when they can be The second source for ministers is withdrawn according to the wishes of Nazarene TSA and IRA Plans the Nazarene “Basic” Pension Plan the minister and even designated as (Illustrations only, which is provided by the denomina­ “housing allowance.” It is not un­ not guarantees) tion from dollars contributed to the usual for a couple to have accumu­ Pensions and Benefits Fund. The lated $100,000 in such an account. #1 #2 responsibility for these first two areas This investment cannot be lost since is assumed by the government and any remaining portion goes to the Starting Age 24 36 by the denomination. However, it is minister’s designated beneficiaries af­ Ending Age 28 65 the minister who should accept re­ ter the death of the minister and Rate of Return 9% sponsibility for initiatins retirement spouse. Generally, up to 20 percent Amount Per Year $300 planning in the remaining areas in of one’s salary can be placed in a TSA Total order to assume adeqiate retirement account, with greater amounts possi­ Contributions $1,500 $9,000 income. ble in some cirumstances. Value 3. TSA 4. Personal Savings at Age 65 $43,546 $40,892 The third source is the Tax- The fourth source of an adequate Sheltered Annuity. Like most other retirment income lies in personal denominations, the Church of the savings. This is uniquely a function Start As Soon As Possible PENSIONS ANO BENEFITS

Security And Flexibility Will It Work For My Church? The Nazarene Minister’s four-fold contributions from smaller churches. The TSA and IRA elements of the retirement program is a unique combi­ This assures every minister a benefit four-part retirement plan are areas nation of distinct elements. The Social of the same level under the “Basic” where appropriate choices may and Security and “Basic” Pension Plan Pension Plan. Likewise, since lower should be exercised. It is the responsi­ elements contain base-line or “safety wage earners receive a higher percent­ bility of the individual to initiate net” benefits which provide certain age of salary replacement from Social planning for the funding of his or her minimum benefits for every partici­ Security than wage earners at higher retirement income. Even very small pant, regardless of church size or levels, it is the latter whose contribu­ levels of participation can yield sig­ lifetime earnings. Yet the area of tions help subsidize the plan for the nificant reward and enhancement of “pension” is only one part of the former. Both these systems transfer retirement income. minister’s total compensation pack­ wealth from the relatively well-off to Increasingly, local churches are age. Therefore, the variable elements those at lower income levels. seeing the importance of their choices of the four-fold retirement program Although these programs are charita­ allow for compensation discretion on in providing retirement income through ble, they are not charity. They recog­ the part of the church employer and TSA for the pastor and other employ­ nize that there is a certain minimum the individual minister. Together the ees. It is an essential compensation level of benefit due everyone. How­ four parts are structured to allow every element just like salary and health ever, to make Social Security and the minister and church employer both insurance. “Paying the bill” for the “Basic” Pension Plan the only ele­ security and flexibility in providing human resources the employer (local ments of retirement income funding, for deferred compensation. church) consumes means considering thus making everyone “equal” in that bill as a total compensation issue, retirement would be as inequitable not just a “better pension” issue. as paying every worker in the country Base-Line Elements Provide the same salary. Even though there The real issue is not that pensions Certain Securities should be certain guaranteed mini- must be improved, but that overall mums in compensation (and pensions compensation must be considered and It is important to understand that are just a part of compensation) there improved. To make pensions the only both Social Security and the “Basic” must also be the ability for employers issue when considering compensation Pension Plan were put into place at to have some discretion in structuring enhancement is to miss this important particular times in history. Each began the compensation of workers who point. The Manual of the Church of in order to meet an immediate need perform with a variety of efforts, the Nazarene clearly establishes one of caring for retirees at that specific skills, time commitments, and experi­ of the duties of the local church to be time. They also were introduced to ence. “...raising money for the support of allow younger workers time to begin the church and of the pastor, that he building savings to be used in addition Discretionary Elements may be free from secular care and to the base-line programs for their anxiety and may give himself wholly future retirement income needs. Allow Personal Choice to the work of the ministry.” Included Due in part to personal choices, it The older one gets, the more one’s in that statement is the need to provide is possible that some in the church and life becomes a product of personal the minister with not only present some in society-at-large will not make choices. Some are in the area of salary but also “deferred salary” for provision for much retirement income financial decisions, such as the fund­ retirement income. beyond the “safety net,” base-line ing of one’s retirement. However, no For information on any elements programs. For this reason, funding of choice is given on the fact that sooner of the retirement income program, these programs is “socially progres­ or later present earnings will stop and write to the Board of Pensions and sive.” In other words, contributions living expenses will have to be met Benefits USA, 6401 The Paseo, Kan­ to the Pensions and Benefits Fund by with whatever income provisions have sas City, MO 64131-1284. larger churches help to offset smaller been made for retirement. HEARTLINE Christian { HELPS Counseling THE Services tin jlij JC/iv SIX YEARS OF TELEPHONE COUNSELING WITH PARSONAGE PEOPLE

No one knew for sure what the re­ And if they had the need, would they fessionals. Pastoring had always been a sponse would be to a telephone counsel- actually make the call? After six years difficult and demanding task, but it ing ministry for Nazarene parsonages. of manning the phones, the resounding seemed that a changing society only answer to both of these questions is complicated the situation. The stress yes. There is the need, and our parson­ being experienced by the pastor is now A program of this nature had never ages are taking advantage of the frequently shared by the spouse and been attempted in any denomination, opportunity. children. much less within a conservative group In the early 1980s, Wilbur W . Bran­ Responding to the needs of the pas­ like Nazarenes. Did pastors and their non and the office of Pastoral Minis­ torate, a vision of a toll-free telephone wives really have a need to talk with tries recognized the need for pastors to ministry was conceived. It would pro­ Christian professional counselors? be able to consult with Christian pro­ vide pastors and their families with

Michael Malloy, A.C.S.W., Executive Mrs. Terry Johnson, Receptionist: first Don Harvey, Ph.D., Clinical Director. D irector. point of entry for all calls.

56 / Spring 1990 § Praying, left to right: Michael Malloy, A.C.S.W., M.R.E., Executive Director; Doug Williams, M.A., CONET Coun­ selor; Don Harvey, Ph.D., Clinical Director; Mrs. Adrianne Brewer, Grad­ uate Student, Peabody/Vanderbilt, CONET Counselor; Peter Wilson, M.A., CONET Counselor.

direct access to professional counse­ spread to include ail fifty states. Over The reality is clear. Parsonages are lors. Whether their need be for consul­ the past six years of service, the counsel­ not exempt from normal humanity. tation regarding a counseling situation, ors at Christian Counseling Service in Pastors do become frustrated and con­ the recommendation of a Christian re­ Nashville who answer the phones have fused. Pastors’ wives do become ferral source in their geographical area, been honored to talk with thousands of stressed. Their marriages can become opportunity to discuss personal stress, callers. Occasionally it is for a referral strained. And both can experience pain. or concerns within their own marital source or consultation, but more fre­ W e have heard this a lot over the past and family relationships, the "Heart- quently the call is regarding personal six years . . . and we are glad that we line” would assure quick, professional, and parsonage concerns. The rewards were there when they needed us. and confidential assistance. of ministering to those who minister What began in 1984 as a pilot pro­ have been many — but it has also been —by Donald R. Harvey, Ph.D. ject involving twelve districts quickly sobering. Clinical Direcotr, CONET

Doug Williams, M.A., CONET Mrs. Adrianne Brewer, CONET Peter Wilson, M.A., CONET C ounselor. C ounselor. C ounselor.

■A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship* 57 ' i \ * ''S * i

A BIBLE STUDY FOR THE HEART AND MIND

THE BIBLE SPEAKS TO ME ABOUT MY BELIEFS By William E. McCumber Only Bill McCumber could have written this book. W ith character­ istic wit, charm, and grace, Dr. McCumber explores core beliefs spelled out in the Bible. He says, “To attem pt a poor man’s biblical theology within the compass of these few pages is a mission impos­ sible. I began to feel like the man who grabbed a lion and begged for someone to help him turn it loose.” Each chapter comes complete with discussion questions, and a leader’s guide is available. Well-suited for group study or personal enrichment. GM083-4I I-285X (student)...... $ 4 .5 0 G M L G -31 (leader’s guide)...... $ 2 .5 0

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systematic method of recognizing those special days RECORD SUPPLIES in the life of members and friends in your congrega­ FAMILY RECORD CARD. Provides space for required tion. information. Package of 50 for $3.95 A CHURCH RECORD DATA SHEET. Four sections (days) Warm, friendly designs in full color coupled with per sheet for entering birthdays, anniversaries, and meaningful selections of prose, scripture, and prayerettes other information on that date. 8" x 11". beautifully express the interest and love of a pastor. Space Package of 100 for $5.50 optional for personal message. GM S-1R3 VINYL BINDER. Three-ring. 10" x 11 ’/2". $4.95 Lithographed in four colors on a high-gloss stock. 41/2" x 6". RECORD CARD FILE BOX. For R-125 cards. $11.60 Matching envelopes. Prices sub/ect to change without notice Plus handling and postage GMG-901 BIRTHDAY (adult) GMG-902 ANNIVERSARY NOTE: Suggested quantities fora church of 150 in attendance, 100 GMG-903 GET WELL R-125: 100R-126: 150 Birthday: 50 each of Anniversary, Illness, GMG-904 SYMPATHY and Bereavement. GMG-905 BIRTHDAY (children) Package of 10 (identical cards) $3.95 ORDER BY NUMBER IDENTIFYING INDIVIDUAL CARD

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Large K-Clmrcjh.es increasing . . . now 13 Nazarene churches of 1,000 or more Church members or attenders in Canada/USA . . . up from 10 in ’79, 3 in 1969. Growth Bethany, Okla., First and Pasadena, Calif., First have been on the list all twenty years. Newest additions are New Life in Pismo Beach, Calif., and Portland, Ore., First. When a large church puts on a special Christmas pageant... or catches positive media attention for specialized ministries . . . if identified as Nazarenes, all smaller churches in town benefit with “free ad­ vertising.” Goal of 50 large churches in. Canada/USA by year 2000. Already four in world mission areas ... India, South Africa, and two in Cape Verde.

Sunday Now is the time to plan for SS growth ... one of two best growth times School Growth in Canada/USA. if a church is considering going to double services, early spring is a good time to s ta rt... otherwise, September.

Responsibility Census Bureau gearing up for decennial census. But no “religious” ques­ List tions allowed... not even ethnic questions if religion is implied So Church Growth Research Center will conduct interdenominational census this year. Over 100 denominations will take part... listing how many people their churches are responsible for. Based on previous surveys, nearly 50% of Americans aren’t claimed by anyone’s church. Even in “Lutheran” Minnesota ... or “Catholic” New Orleans . . . one in four people aren’t claimed by anybody. Nazarenes use the responsibility list to identify adherents . .. those our church would try to minister to in case of need. Now is a good time to be sure the list is complete ... including all those who look to the church as their spiritual home, even infrequently... but not inflated with names of people who no longer live in town, or have died

A Journal of Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship 61 New Largest “New Nazarene” figure ever ... good gains overseas and in many N azarenes Canada/USA churches. About 500 churches worldwide reported at least 25 new Nazarenes ... received by Profession of Faith or Transfer from Other Denominations. 170 such churches in Canada/USA... and 30 took in at least 50. Top 3 took in over 100... 160 in newly organized Northern California Korean, 117 inNew Life (Pismo Beach, Calif.), 103 inMetroplex Chapel (Fort Worth).

Population Areas of population gain have good potential for Nazarene growth. Of 27 Growth counties that gained 100,000 or more people from 1980 to 1987,26 showed A reas Nazarene gains, too. Of 26 counties where population grew at least 50%, 15 showed Nazarene gains ... but another 10 had no Nazarene work at all. Of 28 counties that combined good percentage growth (25%) with large numerical gain (50,000 people), Nazarenes grew in all... and in 15 of the counties Nazarenes grew faster than the population . . . most of these in mid-Florida and Texas.

1990s Growth projections for early 1990s available from Church Growth Growth Research Center. Top 20 growth counties concentrated in southeast... 8 Counties in Florida, Jacksonville to Port Charlotte ... 4 in South Carolina (but 3 were in Hugo’s path) ... 2 in Atlanta area... rest are scattered in Alabama, Texas (2), Arizona, Nevada, Colorado.

New Preliminarily, 78 new Canada/USA churches were reported last assembly Churches year . . . continues high level established last quadrennium. 42 districts reported at least one new church.. . New York reported 6, Central Florida and Los Angeles 5 each... 3 each for Arizona, Canada Quebec, Central Ohio, Florida Space Coast, Georgia, and New England. Worldwide, 437 new churches reported during assembly year. Another good year expected in 1990 as Year of Church Planting finishes up.

R

62 GROW / Spring 1990 r REVIVALS REVIVALS REVIVALS

REVIVAL FIRE BURNS FOR PERSON AND WORK OF THE RESTITUTION NEW THEME TW O YEARS—The East Ridge HOLY SPIRIT EMPHASIZED— TO MAN AT STUART—Evangelist Church in Chattanooga continues to Pastor Lloyd Howell reports a revival Fred Lester reports an effective meet­ celebrate a revival experienced in Janu­ with Rev. Ken Staniforth at the sun ing at Stuart, Florida, with Pastor Gary ary 1988, led by Evangelist Russell Valley Church on the Sacramento Dis­ Durham where the church experienced Coffey. The congregation anticipates trict: "W e have, through the holiness "great crowds, great interest, great sing­ even greater results when Coffey re­ preaching of Rev. Staniforth, returned ing, and great expectation in every serv­ turns this year for a second revival to our spiritual roots of Wesleyan- ice.” Lester continued, "The subject of series. Arminian tradition and the Holy Spirit restitution was new to one man well According to Pastor M. K. Weaver, was faithful. Lives have been changed over 50 years of age. He wanted to the 1988 meeting, scheduled for one to a holy lifestyle and many have been know where that subject might be week, spontaneously expanded into a renewed.” The spirit of revival found in the Bible. He took a great second week. Due to a last-minute can­ continues. attitude and walked out, determined to cellation, Coffey was able to continue make some things right so he could as evangelist. Apparently the arrange­ SIXTY-FIVE PEOPLE INVOLVED have power with God and man.” ment was in divine order inasmuch as IN PRAYER VIGIL—Pastor Calvin seventy-eight people sought the Lord Nicholson, Evangelist John Hicks, and EVANGELIST FREDERICK during the second week. Song Evangelist Tom Dale teamed with GROSSMITH PLANTS CHURCH Sam Stevenson, an example of many sixty-five lay Christians in a prayer vigil AT CLEETHORPES—After four conversions, knew little about the for revival in the Ontario, Oregon, years of evangelism in Scotland and church but was working as an electri­ Church of the Nazarene. And God England, Evangelist Grossmith used cian on the church’s new fellowship answered. Following the revival, Rev. his broadcasting and journalism skills hall. There he became acquainted with Nicholson reported, "The revival was to plant a new church at Cleethorpes. people from the church and accepted truly what the term implies. Many re­ The new church, starting on November their revival invitation. As a result, he newed commitments to Christ. Many 4 with 27 charter members, is located was wonderfully converted. Five came to the altar to allow the Holy in a small holiday resort on England’s months later, he was elected to the Spirit to remove bitterness and other east coast — 30 miles from the birth­ church board. He now chairs the trus­ hindrances from their lives. Our theme place of John Wesley. The fact that tees and directs the bus ministry. was 'Seeking His Face’ — we really saw 92% of the population do not attend Him. It was a time of renewal, as we had church demonstrates the spiritual needs prayed it would be!” of this area. In February 1989, Gros­ smith made broadcasting history when GOD USES TENT CRUSADE THE BEST REVIVAL IN YEARS BBC Television screened nationwide the first Christian commercial, part of a IN FRANKLIN, TENNESSEE— AT WEST MAIN CHURCH—This series he had written and produced. Pastor Jerry W. Smith reports a zone South Carolina Church in Rock Hill, tent crusade with Evangelist Morris led by Pastor William A. Ulmet, pre­ Chalfant in their area near Nashville pared for the revival with forty days of Revival reports—The church wants news about last summer. The pastor writes, "It has prayer and fasting. Evangelist Jerry how God used revivals to change ordinary people been some months since the close of McGee preached on the theme "The and renew churches; one purpose of GROW is to report such miracles o f grace. The editor wel­ the crusade and the victories hold true Supernatural Manifestation of Jesus in comes revival reports, which should be type­ today.” The pastor summarizes, "Per­ the Spirit-Filled Life.” Rev. Ulmet sum­ written in concise sentences, giving specific de­ haps the greatest value of this week is marized the results, "This was the best tails, precise dates, and accurate spelling of that our people were exposed to the revival in our church in years. Jerry church, city, and individuals’ names. Your name, heart of a wonderful evangelist. His McGee’s ministry is just what the address, phone number, and mailing date should be typed on all items. W e want to hear from you, heart throbs to see the Church of the church needed. People needed to hear even though revival reports cannot be acknowl­ Nazarene revived.” his message.” edged or returned because of the rush o f publica­ tion deadlines. Revival reports can be sent to GROW Editor, 6401 The Paseo, Kansas City, M O 64131. REVIVALS REVIVALS REVIVALS

A Journal of Church Grouith, Evangelism and Discipleship 63 G R O W — A JOURNAL OF CHURCH GROWTH, EVANGELISM AND DISCIPLESHIP Volume 1, Number 1, March 1990 Bill M. Sullivan, Director, Church Growth Division, International Church of the Nazarene • Neil B. Wiseman, Editor

—Cover and inside photography by Michael Lewis. • Photograph of Baby Will, Page 15, Scott T. Wiseman. —Graphic and page design by Don Ellis, art director, Wellspring. • Composition by Ada Fae Nichols, typographer, Wellspring.

G R O W is produced quarterly, in March, June, September, and December, by the Church Growth Division of the International Church of the Nazarene, 6401 The Paseo, Kansas City, Missouri 64131. G R O W is published by the Nazarene Publishing House, 2923 Troost Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri 64109. G RO W is designed by The Wellspring Advertising Agency, a division of Christian Booksellers Association, Colorado Springs, Colorado.

GROW welcomes local and district reports of revivals, church plants, and church growth but because of publishing deadlines, reports cannot be acknowledged or returned. Manuscripts on related subjects are also welcome, but unsolicited manuscripts can be returned only if accompanied with a return self-addressed envelope and adequate postage. Reports and manuscripts may be addressed to Neil B. Wiseman, GROW Editor, 6401 The Paseo, Kansas City, Missouri 64131.

64 GROW / Spring 1990 PRAYER A DRIVING FORCE FOR REVIVAL

short while ago I preached in a revival im­ side with a fellow believer with a grudge in his heart or A mersed in prayer. The church gave itself to gossip on his mind? It appears that it took ten days of prayer weeks before the revival began. Much more than prayer and waiting for unity to be experienced in the a pressing duty or a new program, pastor and people Upper Room, but it can be a reality in a much shorter simply determined to seek God’s mind for their indi­ period when believers pray in one accord for revival. vidual lives and for the church’s ministry, outreach, Prayer for revival in the church I visited was more and service. They learned that prayer is a significant than a schedule—it was a heart burden. The church has component of genuine revival. As a result, that church men’s prayer meetings, women’s prayer meetings, Sat­ is well on its way to making prayer as normal as wor­ urday prayer meetings, and church board prayer meet­ ship, giving, or singing. ings. Lay leaders gathered before every revival service in

In that church, prayer for revival built a red-hot spirit the pastor’s study with the pastor and evangelist to of expectancy in the minds of lay leaders, intercede for the meeting. And can you pastor, faithful members, casual attenders, imagine the power this evangelist sensed and the evangelist, too. As you might from God when the church board gathered expect, such expectancy positively affected between Sunday school and church to lay the attendance and altar response. hands on me and pray for my anointing?

Prayer helped spiritually hungry folks These people did not talk much about think often about the possibilities of their needs being prayer, they just prayed. met during the revival. And when they sought God, the You know what happened—the atmosphere blazed old, old story of salvation, heart cleansing, and healing with the Presence; participation in congregational sing­ for backsliding became their story. The church experi­ ing was nearly 100%; seekers came to the altar; and the enced the exact results for which they prayed. church was revived.

Praying also improves preaching. This preacher, like Prayer changes things. Prayer changes people. Prayer every minister 1 know, always preaches better when he changes the environment. Prayer does wonders for knows someone is praying. But people hear preaching leaders—both preachers and laymen—even as it trans­ better when they have prayed for the preacher and for forms churches, neighbors, and nations.

the transformation of their friends and neighbors. Why not pray more? W e know prayer is the driving Then, too, revival prayers unite believers now even force of revivals.

as they did at the first Pentecost. W ho can pray side by —NEIL B. WISEMAN Editor, GROW

A Journal o f Church Growth, Evangelism and Discipleship