FIRSTGLANCE Ministry Ministry is the international journal of the Seventh-day Adventist Ministerial Association and has been published since 1928.

Association Secretary James A. Cress Editor Nikolaus Satelmajer Assistant Editor Willy E. Hucks II Production Consultant Myrna Tetz Editorial Assistant Sheryl Beck Database Assistant Mark Sique Persuasive preaching Professional Growth and Interchurch Relations Anthony Kent IN 6 Preaching that depends on God’s Spirit is the way around Contributing Editors: Jonas Arrais, Sharon Cress, John EVERY M. Fowler, Clifford Goldstein, Anthony Kent, Peter Prime, ISSUE the pitfalls of manipulation to positive, persuasive power. Joel Sarli, Kit Watts Barry C. Black International Editors: French John Graz Letters Inter-American Division Felix Cortes South American Division Zinaldo A. Santos 3 Consulting Editors: Ben Clausen, Raoul Dederen, Teofilo Ferreira, Ron A new evangelism: forgiveness Flowers, Michael Hasel, Roland Hegstad, Kathleen Kuntaraf, Ekkehardt Mueller, Jan Paulsen, Robert Peach, 9 Pure forgiveness and transactional forgiveness cannot be Angel Manuel Rodriguez, Penny Shell, William Shea, Editorial Russell Staples, Richard Tibbits, Ted Wilson, Edward Zinke 4 separated—you can’t have one without the other. But, Pastoral Assistant Editors: John C. Cress, Fredrick Russell, Maylan Schurch, Loren Seibold what does it mean to really forgive? International Advisors: Alejandro Bullon, Russell Burrill, Daniel Duda, R. Danforth Fancis, Passmore Hachalinga, Lourdes Morales-Gudmundsson John Kakembo, Pavel Khiminets, Miguel Luna, Hector Pastor’s Pastor Sanchez, Houtman Sinaga, Bruno Vertallier, Gary Webster 30 Pastoral Advisors: Leslie Baumgartner, S. Peter Campbell, Miguel A. Cerna, Jeanne Hartwell, Mitchell Henson, Norma Osborn, Leslie Pollard, Dan Smith, Steve Willsey Ten things listeners want in a Advertising Editorial Office Ministerial Association Resource Project 12 sermon Coordinator Cathy Payne Both seekers and Christians seek essentially the same Cover Illustration Harry Knox Photo Credit Rick Kajiura things—you’ll find out what they are. Layout 316 Creative Subscriptions: 12 issues (double issue for July/August): Robert R. Hostetler United States US$29.99; Canada and overseas US$31.99; airmail US$41.75; single copy US$3.00. To order, send name, address, and payment to Ministry Subscriptions, 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904 U.S.A. Web site: www.ministrymagazine.org Focused on the Kingdom . . . Queries/renewals/new subscriptions/address changes: [email protected] (email); 14 bonded by the Spirit 301-680-6510 (phone); 301-680-6502 (fax) To Writers: We welcome unsolicited manuscripts. One of the high priorities of the church continues to be Editorial preference is to receive manuscripts on diskette with name, address, telephone and fax numbers, and unity. The other has to do with mission. Social Security number (if U.S. citizen or possessing a U.S. Social Security number). Send editorial correspondence to Nikolaus Satelmajer interviews Jan Paulsen, World 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, 301-680-6510 (phone); 301-680-6502 (fax); ministrymagazine@gc. Church President adventist.org (editorial office email). Writer’s Guidelines available on request and on website at www.ministrymagazine.org. Ministry (ISSN 0026-5314), the international journal of the Seventh-day Adventist Ministerial Association © 2006, Doing theology in mission—part 2 is published monthly (except for July/August, when a double issue will be published) by the General Conference 19 This mode of theology emphasizes experience. Find out more. of Seventh-day Adventists and printed by Pacific Press® Pub. Assn., 1350 N. Kings Road, Nampa, ID 83687-3193. Jon L. Dybdahl Member Associated Church Press. Standard mail postage paid at Nampa, Idaho. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. Vol. 79 Number 1 Bible credits: Texts credited to the NEB are from The New English Bible. Copyright © 1961, 1970 by the Delegates of the Oxford Dateline University Press and the Syndics of the Cambridge University Press. Reprinted by permission. Texts credited to the NIV are from the Holy Bible, New International Version. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by 26 the International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers. Bible texts credited to RSV are from the Revised Standard Version of the Bible. Copyright © 1946, 1952, 1971 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission.

 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 L e t t e r s

We need to search for better ways of packaging the gospel...

Doing Theology in Mission We need salvational conversion to cause.” For the author, “the distinction s I was reading Dr. Dybdahl’s article, God, ecclesiological conversion to the between the old and new covenants with AI found myself saying “Yes! that’s church, and we need a missiological regard to their efficacy must be sought in what we need!” It was not until I went conversion to the world. the area of stipulations”— namely, “the overseas and immersed myself in another, Forward on Our Knees complex administration of these instru- non-Western, non-American culture that —Billy Gager, M.Div. student at Andrews ments” of laws, priests, and sacrifices. I realized how culturally conditioned I University, Berrien Springs, Michigan, USA His intent is not immediately clear, as he myself have been. And what was even goes on to affirm the continuing validity more startling, was that I learned that What’s New About the New of the Decalogue under the New Cov- my way of life and my way of seeing the Covenant? enant (Yes!), while denying that of the world is not bullet proof. There are many our November cover article caught procedural laws (Yes!)—except those, like aspects of my own way of life that are Ymy attention, because it is a live issue dietary laws, that are in principle consistent faulty and need adjustment. So my own in our fellowship and because I had writ- with spiritual wholeness and relationships. experience of living without electricity, ten an article by the same title ten years (What? May not most of the 613 laws be without the “benefits” of restaurants, back. Dr. Donkor finds more continuity extrapolated or applied in this way?) Wal-Marts, and the media, taught me than change between the Bible’s Old The author’s climactic and definitive many things about what I had been miss- and New Covenants, to which he applies point came late in this section where he ing out on my whole life. Aristotle’s grid of four causes. Both these again quotes McComiskey to underscore his It was not until after my overseas covenants, he writes, share the same belief that the essential difference between mission experience that I realized one essential reality—their formal cause, and the two covenants is to be found in the of the largest and greatest unreached the same ultimate purpose—their final work of the Holy Spirit to internalize the populations was in my own country! I saw cause. So far, so good. moral law and prompt our obedience to the urban centers of America as bustling In the material cause, or covenant it. The article’s conclusion also summarizes mission fields, and heard the call of God composition, the author implies that this well. There is much to like about this afresh to open my eyes and see that the both old and new contain the elements emphasis: it remembers one oft-forgotten fields were ready for harvest. of biblical covenants identified by Men- role of the Spirit under the gospel, and A great frustration to me is that most denhall. The six elements are mostly clear brings needed corrective to deficient views of us do not comprehend that America is in the Sinaitic book of the covenant, in of God’s law in the post-Mosaic era. a mission field that needs to have cultur- Deuteronomy and in Joshua 24, but are On the other hand, it is inconceivable ally appropriate mission initiatives, and less obvious in the New Covenant—espe- that one could say so much about cov- even theological re-packaging. We need cially the invocation of witnesses (#5) enant distinctions and so little about the to search for better ways of packaging the and the provisions for preservation and person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. gospel to a 21st century differentiated public reading (#4). For discontinuity The truly extraordinary facets of the New audience that desperately needs to be in covenant material here, the author Covenant are under the headings of jus- offended with the cross of Christ and settles for McComiskey’s quote that the tification and Christology, not sanctifica- the truths of God’s Word. New Covenant is “incomparably greater” tion and pneumatology. Instead of merely It is true that the gospel truths of than the Old in terms of grace and glory, following Moses with more motivation, God’s Word are applicable to every culture but the accompanying phrases “mode we now follow Christ—learning to obey, around the world, but it is a mission-limit- of administration” and “mode of obedi- to be sure, but still just Christians enjoy- ing, and God-dishonoring position to ence” needed clarification for me. ing the grace of God that comes only believe that everyone must articulate and I found more specific answers to the through Jesus. experience that truth in the same way. title in the third quadrant—the “efficient continued on page 28

If you’re receiving Ministry bimonthly and haven’t paid for a subscription, it’s not a mistake. Since 1928 Ministry has been Free Subscription published for Seventh-day Adventist ministers. We believe, however, that the time has come for clergy everywhere to experience a resurgence of faith in the authority of Scripture and in the great truths that reveal the gospel of our salvation by grace, through faith alone in Jesus Christ. We want to share our aspirations and faith in a way that will provide inspiration and help to you as clergy. We hope you will accept this journal as our outstretched hand to you. Look over our shoulder, take what you want and find helpful, and discard what you can’t use. Bimonthly gift subscriptions are available to all licensed and/or ordained clergy. Requests should be on church letterhead and addressed to the editorial office.

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY  E d i t o r i a l

. . . beyond the expected

hen I was about six years old a cholera, diphtheria, diarrhea, malaria, favorite game of mine was the Nikolaus Satelmajer dengue fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid Wlong jump (at least to me it was fever—is rampant. a long jump). My playmates and I would But remember, Dr. Moskala is a den- draw a line in the dirt and then jump tist. He works on teeth. His commit- from that line as far as we could. The one ment to mission, however, made him go who jumped the furthest was the winner. beyond his professional responsibilities. I never won because all my playmates He was concerned about the begging were older and jumped further. children. After praying, the image of But occasionally I was very close to the “Jesus feeding people,”1 came to his grand winner. My father, Peter, was liked mind. The “image” was translated into by the young people and occasionally he makes the sermon a better sermon, even action—he started feeding about 100 joined us in our youthful pursuits. When- beyond what’s expected. children. But he did not stop there; ever he saw us jumping, he just could not Lourdes Morales-Gudmundsson chal- he soon opened schools for children. resist. We marveled that at his age—he lenges us to view evangelism from a new But his dental practice, feeding of chil- was about 36 years old—he could jump perspective. Her article invites us to use dren, and sponsoring schools were not at all. How could, we asked, a 36-year-old reconciliation as an evangelism approach. enough, so he has started new church man jump even a short distance? What about reconciliation in congrega- groups. What a dentist! Certainly Dr. The picture is still fixed in my mind. tions? Some congregations urgently need Moskala is going beyond his job descrip- We made sure the line was clearly drawn to experience reconciliation. It is not tion, beyond the expected. in the dirt road. All of us stood where we enough to only tolerate each other—we Going beyond the expected is not thought he would land. My father—with need to go beyond toleration and experi- just a slogan—it calls for commitment the local mountain in the background— ence the joy of reconciliation. to the work that God has called us. eyed the line and started his run. In a few The interview with Jan Paulsen, world Whether you are a pastor, chaplain, seconds he reached the line and went president of the Seventh-day Adventist church leader—or whatever kind of into the air. Once again he landed beyond Church, focuses on the mission of the ministry—God invites each person to our longest jump. How could he do it? church and the ministers. In that inter- total commitment to ministry. At his age! We determined that one day view Dr. Paulsen reminds us that being a The Ministry staff is committed to we would jump further than he could. church organization is not enough—we doing more than simply producing a (Inwardly, I was pleased that my father are called upon to fulfill the mission given magazine for ministers. Actually, produc- jumped further than the furthest.) us. We need to go beyond only having a ing it is both a joy and a challenge. But Going beyond—often that is expected structure—we are also called upon to be we are committed to going beyond that. from ministers. More importantly, how- a vibrant fellowship participating enthu- We want to produce a magazine that will ever, do we want to go beyond the siastically in God’s plan for the human be your partner in ministry. We invite you minimal, the norm, the average or the family. to let us know how we can serve you. expected? This issue of Ministry invites us The cover picture tells a story, but We invite you to share articles with us, to go beyond—beyond the expected. only a part of the story. Dr. Milan Paul and we invite you to read and share your Barry Black’s article addresses the Moskala is a dentist. A native of the Czech input. We invite you to help us jump way critical issue of persuasion in preach- Republic, he has brought relief to people past the line drawn in the dirt. ing. It reminds us that it’s not enough to in such places as Bosnia and Herzegov- study for a sermon, outline the sermon, ina—areas that experienced great turmoil then write and deliver it. Persuasion is and suffering during the 1990’s. Since 1 Quotations from Dr. Moskala are from needed. The sermons recorded in the 1998, Dr. Moskala has served in Bangla- his email of December 4, 2005. If you are interested in sending him a mes- New Testament are rich with persuasion. desh, an overpopulated country of more sage of encouragement, please send it to Chaplain Black’s article focuses on this than 150 million. Many of the people live [email protected] and we will important issue of preaching. Persuasion in great poverty. Disease—leprosy, TBC, forward it to him.

 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 New Assistant Editor

e are pleased to introduce to the A pastor’s new year’s Wreaders of Ministry the new assis- tant editor, Dr. Willie E. Hucks II. resolutions For the past six years he has taught at 1. Have sermon subjects chosen at least six weeks in Southwestern advance. Adventist Uni- versity, Keene, 2. Have sermon done weekly by Friday noon. Texas where he was associ- 3. Keep all church bulletin boards current. ate professor o f r e l i g i o n . 4. “Schedule” spouse/family time and keep it holy. Besides teach- ing courses to both ministerial and general students, he 5. Never again keep my topcoat on or sit on the also participated in various evangelistic edge of the chair while making a pastoral visit. meetings in several countries. Previously he pastored in Louisiana and Texas with 6. Start making pastoral visits again. the Southwest Regional Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. 7. Never again use “each and everyone” in a Hucks graduated from Oakwood Col- sentence. lege, in Huntsville, Alabama and received his M. Div. from Andrews University, Ber- 8. Practice moderation at potluck dinners. rien Springs, Michigan. Recently he suc- cessfully defended his D. Min. dissertation 9. Participate in at least one significant professional at Andrews University. growth experience this year. Hucks is married to Kathleen (nee Alexander), a school teacher. They have two children, Whitney and Kendall. 10. Take all my vacation time-and work Ministry magazine began in 1928 conscientiously the rest of the year. as a journal for Seventh-day Adventist ministers. Since the 1970’s it has been 11. Try to lead without domineering. made available to clergy of all denomi- nations. Today its readership consists of 12. Listen to a tape of my preaching at least once a clergy of many denominations through- quarter. out the world. In addition, the magazine is translated from the English edition into 13. Give attention to the children’s ministries and various other languages making it one of educational programs. the more widely distributed magazines for clergy. “We are delighted that someone 14. Learn the name of every child in the congregation. who has been a successful pastor and university religion professor is bringing 15. Have a new picture taken of myself for any that experience to the magazine,” stated publicity requests. James A. Cress, Ministerial Secretary of the General Conference of Seventh-day 16. Establish regular office hours and share the Adventists. The Ministerial Association schedule with the congregation. is the organization that publishes the journal. ­—Rev. Randall S. Lehman, Churches of God General Conference, Wooster, Ohio, USA —Nikolaus Satelmajer, Editor

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY  agora, syzygy, reciprocity, contrast, friends, expectancy, consistency, scarcity, power, and spirit. The first four come from Aristotle’s won- derful book, Rhetoric. The other nine have been discussed for years by people who study the nature of persuasion.

The law of ethos The law of ethos refers to the character of the messenger. Nothing can substitute for the moral authority that comes when people perceive that our words are backed by deeds. We have all witnessed what happens when a great preacher loses his or her reputation. Godliness draws and persuades. Edgar Guest put it this way: “I’d rather see your sermon than hear it any day.”3

Persuasive The law of pathos Pathos refers to the preacher’s awareness of motives, feelings, and attitudes, and his or her preaching knowledge of the audience. We should know our congregation and have an awareness of the fact that we speak to multiple concerns. Someone Barry C. Black ome assert that preaching has little to do once observed that if in your sermon you seek to with secular theories of persuasion. The speak to broken hearts, you’ll never lack people Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard who will listen. believed that secular theories of per- suasion form an inadequate approach The law of logos Sto preaching because the goals of rhetoric and Are our sermon points and moves logical, preaching are different. Kierkegaard advocated coherent, and cogent? Too many preachers his own approach to preaching, called “edifying focus on the gravy, forgetting that good discourse.” meat makes its own gravy. Appropriate logos Although the goals of rhetoric and preach- means always having something substantive ing may differ, preachers can learn much from to communicate. both the secular and spiritual laws of persua- sion. Sometimes, as Jesus asserted, “the people The law of agora of this world are more shrewd in dealing with Agora is a gathering place, especially the their own kind than are the people of the light” marketplace in ancient Greece. The preacher (Luke 16:8).1 who is aware of agora will be sensitive to the Bertrand Russell once said, “What is distinc- venue, the setting, the culture, and the timing tively human at the most fundamental level is of the worship experience. I would preach dif- the capacity to persuade and be persuaded.”2 ferently at the United States’ presidential retreat Any preacher who fails to realize how the laws at Camp David than I might at a general church of persuasion can enhance his or her preaching gathering. may miss a great opportunity. After a career as We attempt to wield influence in several The law of syzygy a military chaplain ways. One way is power, which often involves Syzygy, a word from astronomy, refers to the (most recently as Rear force, threats, and commands. Second, we may rare alignment of celestial bodies, such as the Admiral and Chief of seek to use negotiation, trading, exchanging, or sun, moon, and earth, during an eclipse. One Navy Chaplains), Barry haggling. Superior to both of these is persuasion, of our persuasion goals should be to properly C. Black now serves as Chaplain to the United which involves communicating with others in a combine and balance key persuasive elements. States Senate. way that induces them to think or act differently For example, it is possible to have excessive voluntarily. God bless the preacher who learns logos and a deficiency in ethos. You may to persuade. have too much pathos and not enough ethos. At least 13 laws of persuasion provide sub- Effective persuaders properly align persuasion stantive ministry tools: ethos, pathos, logos, elements.

 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 The law of reciprocity Mildred’s people were drawn to her out- This law simply states that when some- going, affectionate personality. She called one gives you something of perceived them “my people.” value, you usually respond with a desire At the end of a 12-week series, more to give something back. I saw this at T. than 250 people were baptized. Nearly D. Jakes’ Potters House Church in Dal- half of those were on Mildred’s list. She las, Texas, USA. When three friends and skillfully used the law of friends. I arrived at the sanctuary, greeters came and asked, “Is this your first visit?” The law of expectancy “Yes, it is,” we responded. The law of expectancy asserts that we Because we were first-time visitors, we tend to fulfill the expectations of those were handed a shopping bag filled with whom we trust or respect. sermon tapes, books, and other helpful I recently discovered this when I made resources. Then we were led to a pre- an appeal for accepting Jesus after a ser- ferred seating area and received special mon. After I left the pulpit and moved recognition during the service. down to the lower level, many people What was the impact? When the came forward to meet me at the altar. The offering plate was passed, I found myself power of this law is one of the reasons in a very generous mood. Moreover, my for the placebo effect. When people are heart seemed even more eager to receive given a sugar pill from someone they Risky Praying? the sermon. Implementing the reciproc- respect, they often feel better, although Unusual things happen to people who pray. ity principle can enhance our preaching no medical reason can be given. It’s the In fact, they sometimes end up in strange and worship. law of expectancy. and awful places like a lion’s den or even the cross. Are you willing to take the risk to see what might happen to your life if you really The law of contrast The law of consistency start praying and building a deep relationship This law declares that when two items When a person announces that he with God? Here are some examples of what are relatively different from each other, or she is taking a position on any point happens to people who pray: we will see them as more different if they of view, he or she will strongly tend Abraham praying for an heir (Genesis 15:2-6). are placed together in time and space. to defend or follow through on that Abraham interceding for the doomed For example, I wanted to attend a commitment. This law of consistency (Genesis 18:22-33, 19:29). Jacob wrestling with God preaching seminar that would have cost is used in evangelistic preaching. When (Genesis 32:24-32). me a significant part of my monthly sal- people sign a commitment card for Hannah praying for a child (1 Samuel 1:10-18; 26-28) ary. The coordinator, however, made baptism and bring a baptismal bundle Solomon praying for wisdom (1 Kings 3:6-14). a one-time offer of the video for the containing clothing for the service, they Elijah praying for a healing same seminar for about one-fourth that nearly always follow through with their (1 Kings 17:20-24). Daniel asking his friends to pray with amount. If I had been told about the decision. him for understanding video offer first, the price would have (Daniel 2:12-19). Daniel in the lion’s den seemed quite high. But when I knew this The law of scarcity (Daniel 6:13-22). Jonah praying for deliverance valuable information was available for a If people think that something they (Jonah 2:1-10). fraction of what it would cost to attend want is limited in quantity, they believe The church praying for imprisoned Peter (Acts 12:5-7). the workshop, it seemed like a bargain. that the value of that item is greater Paul praying for healing power This illustrates the law of contrast. Find than if it were available in abundance. (Acts 28:8). Jesus praying all night before big ways of incorporating it into your preach- In evangelistic meetings, we give away decisions (Luke 6:12). Jesus praying until his countenance ing and worship. free tickets because of limited seating. glowed (Luke 9:28-32). As it happens, suddenly the tickets take Jesus praying for his followers (John 17:1-26). The law of friends on enormous value to those who find Jesus agonizing in prayer When someone asks us to do some- they can’t attend. This occurrence is best (Luke 22:39-46). Jesus praying even on the cross thing, and we believe that person has our illustrated by the phenomenon of “ticket (Luke 23:34, 46). best interests in mind, it motivates us to scalping” for sold-out concerts or sport- —Learning to Pray, by Carolyn Shealy Self want to fulfill his or her request. ing events. The price of the ticket is fueled and William L. Self Many years ago I worked in an evan- by its scarcity. gelistic series with a wonderful woman named Mildred. She worked as a Bible The law of power instructor helping people make a decision People are drawn to those they per- for baptism. Eleven other Bible instruc- ceive to have greater authority, strength, tors helped, but I noticed a difference: or expertise. In the Old Testament, a

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY  priest had special attire that symbolized advice. “Son,” she said with a smile, “if ter that one subject, thereby using the his authority. I discovered during my navy you had gone up like you came down, force of the law of the Spirit. Paul put it career that with each promotion and you would have come down like you this way: “For I resolved to know nothing increase in responsibility, people more went up.” while I was with you except Jesus Christ positively responded to my preaching Cultivate a spirit of personal lowliness, and him crucified” (1 Cor. 2:2). because of the perceived power associ- for Proverbs reminds us, “. . . humil- The great British preacher Charles ated with my new positions. ity comes before honor” (18:12). God’s Spurgeon was once asked by a young Spirit gravitates toward those who have preacher, “Sir, how can I improve my The law of the Spirit contrite hearts. sermons?” This is the most important of the Spurgeon paused as he slowly laws. Without it the others flounder. Reject the ornate responded, “Son, no matter where you The prophet Zechariah referred to it: The persuasive preacher who permits start in your sermon, head as quickly as “So he said to me, ‘this is the word of God’s Spirit to lead him or her rejects the you can across country to Calvary.”4 the Lord to Zerubbabel: “Not by might fancy and sensational. Paul said, “I did not Calvary brings magnetism. Jesus said, nor by power, but by my Spirit,” says come with eloquence or superior wisdom “But I, when I am lifted up from the the Lord Almighty’” (Zech. 4:6). The as I proclaimed to you the testimony earth, will draw all [people] to myself” apostle Paul alluded to the law of the about God” (1 Cor. 2:1). It seems that (John 12:32). Christ-centered preaching Spirit: “When I came to you, broth- Paul learned on Mars’ Hill (Acts 17) the that depends on God’s Spirit is the way ers, I did not come with eloquence or limitations of eloquence. around the pitfalls of manipulation to superior wisdom as I proclaimed to Like Paul, John Wesley rejected the positive, persuasive power. you the testimony about God. For I ornate and fanciful. Tradition records resolved to know nothing while I was that he read his sermons to his maid and with you except Jesus Christ and him changed the words she had difficulty 1 Bible texts in this article are quoted from the New crucified. I came to you in weakness understanding. International Version. 2 See Gary Owen, “Gore vs. Bush: Why It’s All Greek and fear, and with much trembling. My to Me,” Kennedy School of Government Bulletin, message and preaching were not with Master one subject Autumn 2000, 14. wise and persuasive words, but with a In George Lucas’s filmStar Wars, dur- 3 Leroy Elms, Lost Art of Disciple Making (Grand demonstration of the Spirit’s power, ing the Death Star trench run, we hear Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1978), 102. so that your faith might not rest on the character Obi-Wan Kenobi tell Luke 4 Referred to by Gardner C. Taylor in Edward L. Taylor, ed., The Words of Gardner Taylor: Lectures, men’s wisdom, but on God’s power” Skywalker to “use the force.” The per- Essays, and Interviews, (Valley Forge, PA: Judson (1 Cor. 2:1–5). suasive “force” for the Christian minister Press, 2001), 5:116. Obviously, Paul possessed ethos, is the power of Calvary to convict and pathos, logos, agora, syzygy, and other convince. Preachers must, therefore, mas- persuasive gifts. He did not lean on them, but he trusted the law of the Spirit. He seemed to have discovered that only God’s Spirit can convert sinners, promote holiness, and comfort the sorrowful.

The call to humility To activate the law of the Spirit, we must first cultivate a spirit of personal low- liness. Paul put it this way to the believers in Corinth: “I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling” (1 Cor. 2:3). One young pastor preached his inau- gural sermon at his new church. After ascending the staircase to the pulpit with his head high, he discovered he had brought the wrong notes. He attempted to deliver his prepared message without notes and failed miserably. Descending the pulpit, his eyes cast downward, the rookie pastor was greeted by an old sister, who offered some sage

 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 that makes these kinds of transactions possible is “pure” forgiveness. In other words, pure forgive- ness and transactional forgiveness are inseparable; you cannot have one without the other.5

Evangelism tool Reading Derrida in terms of Christian evange- lism, I believe that this tension between the two types of forgiveness can provide a unique and pow- erful platform to make the good news relevant and palatable to a world that is increasingly conflictive. Introducing the gospel through an understanding of forgiveness, and how it works in daily life, is the most logical point of departure to situate newcom- A new ers in the mindset of the “kingdom of heaven.” Indeed it is the initial act of gratuitous forgiveness on God’s part that makes the gospel possible. evangelism: Without this compelling act of divine love, there would be no contact between heaven and earth, between the Creator and His creatures. It cannot forgiveness be emphasized too much: The gospel begins and ends with God’s “pure” forgiveness. But this fact cannot be dissociated from the Lourdes Morales- he French-Jewish philosopher Jacques other facet of divine forgiveness, the one that Gudmundsson Derrida wondered aloud about the requires justice. If God so generously gave this recent phenomenon of corporate, forgiveness, which opened so many avenues of governmental, and religious lead- hope and restoration between errant humanity ers asking for forgiveness.1 What and its Creator, certainly God can expect repen- Tinterested Derrida is that this phenomenon of tance from the sinner in return. It is fair and forgiveness is finding worldwide acceptance as just that it be so. And it is healing, for this act a diplomatic tool, regardless of the dominant of humility redounds in infinite blessings for the religion of the country. Even more curiously, he repentant one: love, joy, peace, and all the fruits said, Judeo-Christian language is used in all this of God’s presence in the human life through the “proliferation of scenes of repentance.”2 Could it workings of the Holy Spirit. be, wonders Derrida, that Christianity is finding a global voice through the discourse it offers the “I forgive you, but” world through these rituals of forgiveness? Jesus’ preaching about the kingdom of heaven There is no doubt that concepts related to carries with it many implications that are pres- forgiveness exist in nearly every world religion, but ent in the tensions between Derrida’s pure and the “language” of forgiveness has most carefully “impure” forgiveness. Key parables such as those been developed in the Christian faith. Confes- of the prodigal son or the two debtors provide sion and repentance, the two supporting pillars the basic notions of forgiveness to which people of Christian forgiveness (along with restitution can immediately relate. It is in this immediate and leaving vengeance to God) are creating, in relevancy of forgiveness that barriers of suspicion Derrida’s opinion, a kind of “grand convulsion” or indifference are broken down and the listener Lourdes Morales- with certain theatrical elements, in some cases is invited to engage in a healthy and useful self- Gudmundsson, Ph.D., even on the geopolitical stage.3 analysis. The attention is focused on personal chairs the Department He points to the powerful tension within the responsibility to one’s neighbor as a means of of Modern Languages Judeo-Christian tradition of two types of forgive- fixing a conviction in the mind regarding indi- at La Sierra University, ness: (1) “pure” forgiveness that bears with it no vidual responsibility toward God. This approach Riverside, California. conditions but is gratuitous and generous; (2) a will avoid misunderstandings about “truth,” that kind of “impure” forgiveness that demands a pro- it’s merely as a set of ecclesiastical behaviors or cess involving justice, repentance, restitution. While fearful expectations outside the boundaries of admitting that nations are obligated to pursue the real life. Instead, it will invite the new believer to “law of responsible transaction” to “normalize” think first about how “truth” relates to their real situations of injustice,4 he insists that the ideal living and real relationships with others.

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY  Over the past more than 20 years, not feel the need for God’s forgiveness; outreach moves from God’s love to God’s I have had the opportunity—through they feel smug in their social or religious judgment. In the end, fear of judgment my seminar, “I Forgive You, But . . .” position. If so, then giving them the may be the driving force in the final deci- —to see how quickly and effectively the opportunity (through the study of for- sion to join the Christian faith. gospel of forgiveness softens hearts and giveness) to look honestly at themselves If this is less true in contemporary evan- transforms lives. The title immediately can provide a crucial step. And that’s gelism in some countries, it’s certainly true suggests a positive: we do forgive. We are because this new self-assessment has a of evangelistic outreach in many parts of willing to look at certain hurts and turn power (unlike any other I have seen) to the world. God’s love is often left behind the other cheek. But it also suggests the break down walls of pride and selfishness. like a distant memory, and people gain the imperfect way we often forgive: a forgive- When the focus is on the practical implica- impression that they must busy themselves ness with so many impossible conditions tions of religion on their own lives, there placating a soon-coming, vengeful God. that it eventually negates any benefits we is a willingness to own behaviors that are This “fear factor” works in the short-term might have hoped to gain from forgiv- incompatible with the standards of good- and often gives breathtaking numerical ing. The reaction people have to this ness present in the Word of God. results. But if the new believers have no title is a knowing smile or even laughter. tools to deal with conflict in their own rela- It touches on a reality we all—whether A new evangelistic thrust tionships with their own family and their baptized members of the church or seek- I would like to suggest that seminars new church family, they will be tempted to ers—know for ourselves. on forgiveness and peacemaking be wander away. If God’s forgiveness and its This recognition of our human frail- developed and used as entering wedges implications for human forgiveness were ties and foibles provides a safe entrance for the church’s outreach and inreach the main course, rather than a mere appe- into a discussion about what it means to across cultural differences and social tizer at the beginning of the evangelistic really forgive. And this discussion, in turn, classes. Reaching out to the community meal we serve up, church members would opens the way for a deeper understanding with seminars and workshops that help find a unique moral strength in the practice of Scriptural invitations to bear with one people address real problems in their of their religion, not only once a week in another and release each other from our lives is a way of placing God’s forgive- church but at home and at work and in anger. It is one thing to recognize God’s ness at center stage in our preaching of all their contacts with others. forgiveness of our sins—that in itself is the gospel. All too often the sequential Seekers who accept the demands of enormously liberating. Often people do layout of Bible study in most evangelistic Christ on their lives and join a church

10 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 are often ill-equipped to deal with the hurtful realities they’ll sooner or later face in other Christian churches. Filled The following is an outline with innocent and unrealistically high expectations, new members are often that lays out how such turned away by judgmental or conflictive people. Without the tools to deal with forgiveness seminars might conflict, neither new nor old members are in a position to resolve their differences. be organized as a pre- The resulting discouragement can easily lead a newcomer to abandon, if not their evangelism presentation: God, most certainly their church. That’s why giving—right from the Times: start—those who first join a church the To be presented on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday evening (two of tools of conflict resolution and forgive- the three weekend days) ness can go far in addressing a church’s membership retention problem. Training the membership in conflict resolution and Number of sessions: forgiveness principles can also provide Three Sessions: the local church with a wealth of human • “I Forgive You, But . . .” resources to teach/preach the gospel. • “What Forgiveness ISN’T” And placing the emphasis on the prac- • “Forgiveness and Your Health” tice of forgiveness keeps the spotlight on Jesus’ grace-filled gospel message of peace in a practical and useful way for all Materials: Workbook accompanies each seminar. Includes work- believers—newcomers and old-timers. book and certificate of completion.

Conclusion I. I FORGIVE YOU, BUT . . .” Evangelism must fill the call to human A Bible study on forgiveness. forgiveness with the pure beauty of God’s forgiveness. God’s forgiveness must per- fume every doctrine, and it must help the A. The Lord’s Prayer: the Prayer of Forgiveness seeker not only accept that forgiveness B. Why should I forgive? but understand how to use the tools of C. Is it ever wrong to forgive? forgiveness in their everyday life. Then we’ll be speaking a recognizable and use- ful language that will continue to have practical and personal meaning long after II. WHAT FORGIVENESS ISN’T baptism, a language so clear that even Working definitions of forgiveness and related concepts people like Jacques Derrida cannot help but take notice. A. What forgiveness is B. What forgiveness isn’t Lourdes Morales-Gudmundsson regularly C. Forgiveness vs. reconciliation presents her seminar “I Forgive You, But . . .” nationally and internationally. If you wish to D. “Pure” forgiveness contact the author about a seminar in your area, please call her at 951-785-2001. III. FORGIVENESS AND YOUR HEALTH Relationship of forgiveness to physical and mental health 1 Jacques Derrida, Cosmopolitanism and Forgiveness. Trans. Mark Dooley and Michael Hughes. London: Routledge, 2001. A. The healing power of forgiveness 2 Ibid., p. 28. B. Studies on anger and diseases 3 Ibid., p. 30. 4 Ibid., p. 57. C. How to forgive: steps to health 5 Ibid., p. 51.

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY 11 knew how to connect with an audience very quickly, but many modern preachers, even the good ones, tend to start with riveting phrases such as, “Turn in your Bibles to Obadiah.” Such tactics won’t do. You must grab your listener’s attention any way you can—with a dramatic statement, question, story, film clip, etc.—and give them no choice but to listen from there.

9. Teach me something I didn’t already know. Ask yourself, “If I were listening to this sermon, what part or points would I feel com- pelled to write down so I won’t forget it?” If the answer is “nothing,” start over. Every listener Ten things wants to discover new information, new insights, and new perspectives.

listeners want in 8. Tell me what God says, not what you say. Even seekers are far more interested in what God says on a subject than in what you say. Good a sermon sermons—whether targeted primarily to seekers or Christians—rely heavily on the Bible as God’s Word and let it do the talking. Robert R. Hostetler n a bold and controversial decision, Mel Gibson filmed The Passion of the Christ 7. Don’t try to make me feel foolish in Latin, the language of Pilate and the because I don’t know my Bible as well as Roman soldiers who crucified Jesus, and you do. Often seekers and long-time church in Aramaic, the language of Jesus and His members don’t use their Bibles in church. Many Idisciples. He intended for the film to be shown are embarrassed at their inability to find Haggai or without subtitles, thereby combining modern Ruth in a few seconds. That’s why in my church, media (film) with languages almost no one speaks when it comes time to turn to the biblical text for (or understands) anymore. By the time of the the morning, we project on the screen the Bible film’s release, however, Gibson changed his mind, table of contents with that book highlighted, adding the subtitles. and say something such as, “Ruth is the eighth That decision is oddly reflective of one of the book of the Bible, and it begins on page 184 in dilemmas preachers face today. Often, churches the Bibles we provide for your use.” tell the old, old story in languages (music, ter- minology, symbols, etc.) that only the initiated 6. Make me like you; help me get to understand, leaving any newcomers or non-Chris- know you a little bit. Every speaker is encour- tians in the dark. In contrast, “seeker-friendly” aged to seize opportunities to give listeners an churches target a different crowd: People who introduction and insight into their own life and are willing to hear the story but don’t necessar- personality. It’s so much better if what we reveal ily speak the language of the traditional church. is a little vulnerable, self-effacing, and/or win- Some churches try to build a bridge between the some. two, providing subtitles, so to speak, to interpret Robert R. Hostetler what’s going on for the uninitiated. Interestingly 5. Make me smile. Not everyone can tell a is pastor of leader- enough, the sermon itself can be that bridge humorous story, but that is not the only way—and ship and teaching because, in the end, both Christians and non- far from the best way—to inject humor into a at Cobblestone Christians seek basically the same things from sermon. Candid observations about our own Community Church in the sermon. follies are among the most effective ways to use Oxford, Ohio. What are those things? In my view there are humor. ten basic elements that both seekers and Christians want from a sermon. Here is the countdown: 4. Show me that you understand what I’m going through. One of the most crucial— 10. Grab my attention as soon as you and earliest—tasks of any preacher is to identify start speaking. The great preachers of the past with listeners. In one message on “How to Survive

12 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 Suffering,” I began my sermon with, feel. Any sermon that fails to engage both following through on what God has “Sometimes a speaker bites off more than mind and heart is likely to disappoint. said to them. So in addition to giving he can chew,” and went on to detail why them opportunity for private prayer I felt ill-qualified to speak in a room filled 2. Meet a felt need. The first ques- and counsel, I try to suggest practical with people who had suffered far more tion a writer or speaker must answer is, ways they can follow up on what they’ve than I had: a family losing their business, “So what?” If as a reader or listener I learned. I’ve encouraged listeners to write a couple in which each one was deal- am not promised something that I want their own mission statement, give away ing with debilitating illnesses, a mother when you begin, I will quickly start think- one possession in the coming week, or who’d lost her son, and so on. A sincere ing about the upcoming sport event, or mail a postcard inviting someone to admission of our own struggles, or a brief where I should take the family after the church the following week. acknowledgment of the real-life issues service. Even worse, if I was promised When it comes right down to it, it’s others are facing, is key to identifying something that you never delivered, I’ll not so different preaching to seekers or with both seeker and Christian. be far less likely to return next week. to Christians. With Christians, of course, And, finally, the number one thing you can assume some knowledge and 3. Touch my emotions. Seekers both seekers and Christ-followers want take some liberties. And with seekers, and Christians alike want to be inspired. in a sermon: you might face fewer taboos. But both They want their heartstrings to be groups seek essentially the same things plucked. And, while seekers in particular 1. Tell me clearly how I can apply from a teacher of God’s Word—none of are alert to manipulation, they’re none- this to my life today, this week. which are anything new but all of which theless longing for a preacher who will When I conclude a message, I assume we need to apply to every message we help them not only to think but also to that all my listeners are interested in speak from now until Jesus returns.

20 Questions for Effective Preaching By Bob Hostetler

t Cobblestone Community Church people into life-changing • Is my talk focused? Awe train our speakers to evaluate a encounters with God”) or sermon, once they’ve prepared an initial distinctive traits (community- • Have I played a part in meeting a draft, by asking 20 questions: oriented, student-friendly, seeker- felt need? aware, outward-focused)? • Do I grab the listener’s attention • Is the “solution” I propose as soon as I start speaking? • Have I offered an elementary (but realistic? Life-related? Biblical? not condescending) explanation • Does the talk start where people of the text? • Does the structure of my talk are (with their culture, needs, logically lead to the conclusion/ problems, issues, questions)? • Have I revealed anything of myself application? in the talk without revealing • Does it come on too strong, too anything inappropriate? • Have I left out anything fast? important, crucial? • Do I interact with my listeners • Am I teaching something they in the talk (e.g., mentioning • Have I given clear application didn’t already know? people’s names, asking for for both a seeker and a Christian responses, etc.)? that answers the question, “OK, • Am I communicating what God what am I supposed to do with says, and not my opinions? • Have I included humor? this information now/today/this week?” • Have I included an introduction of • Am I being realistic instead of myself and words of welcome to shallow? Will my listeners believe • Have I made reference to how the listener? I understand what they’re really my listener can find help and/or going through? prayer (e.g. prayer counselors)? • Have I included a restatement somewhere in the talk of either • Have I touched my listener’s Cobblestone’s mission (“loving emotions?

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY 13 JP: That is related as much as anything to what the church asks me to do. The church has given me assignments that have kept my sense of call- ing very alive.

NS: So the call that we receive from God has to be confirmed by the church in order for it to be realistic?

JP: Oh yes, definitely. For me it’s very much that—the needs of the church, the trust of the Focused on the church, the affirmation of the church. Yes, all of that.

Kingdom . . . NS: Who are some people—teachers, or histori- cal figures in Christianity—who have influenced bonded by the you positively? JP: I think of my Bible teacher in junior col- lege—a Danish theologian who later came to Spirit America and became president of Loma Linda University—Dr. V. Norskov Olsen. He did much in those early years to confirm my calling. Then Nikolaus Satelmajer r. Jan Paulsen, president of the at the seminary, teachers like Ted Heppenstall Seventh-day Adventist Church influenced me a lot. He helped me to understand responded to questions posed the wonderful balance between the assurance of by Nikolaus Satelmajer, editor of salvation and the obligation to live in harmony Ministry magazine. Born in Nor- with the will of God—the dual balance, whether Dway, Paulsen ministered in pastoral, academic and you call it grace and law, or whatever label you leadership settings in various parts of the world use. It’s important to have the assurance of things before being elected president of the world church being right with Christ, accompanied with the (General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists) in affirmation, therefore, that I shall live a life of 1999 and reelected in 2005. As the 16th president discipleship. Then there was Jűrgen Moltmann, of this church with headquarters in Silver Spring, at Tűbingen, who taught me a lot about the Maryland, USA, Paulsen explains his perspectives concept of hope. Even though his theology that we believe will interest and be of value to clergy differed in some way from mine, his emphasis of all denominations. meshed very nicely with my understanding of the second coming of Christ. NS: How did you decide to go into ministry? NS: I noticed in your sermons at the church JP: I was about fourteen or fifteen when, for rea- headquarters and other places that you do put a sons difficult to explain, the presence of Christ in lot of emphasis on the concept of hope. Evidently my life and a sense of urgency in respect to how I that is foundational to your understanding of would spend my life came to me strongly. At that God’s message. time I made my decision to become a minister. The editor of Ministry JP: Yes—I think that God is in the business of magazine, interviews NS: What was the response of your family? creating a better future for us. All that is His plan. Jan Paulsen, president Thus hope is a big element. of the Seventh-day JP: My parents were very supportive. It was a Adventist Church. good Adventist home to grow up in, but it was NS: Ministers live busy lives, sometimes at the a poor home. My dad, a cobbler, worked hard expense of their own spirituality. What helps you to help me get to college. The only one of four to grow spiritually? children to go, by the way. JP: Since my early years of ministry I have been a NS: How do you keep this call to ministry fresh very early riser and probably get by with less sleep in your life? than most people. I get up regularly at four-thirty

14 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 in the morning. That gives me some two JP: First, as you know, the Seventh-day We must recognize both aspects. But and a half to three hours at the house Adventist Church is a rapidly growing unity is one of my high priorities. when I can think and do some spiritual community. With children and adults, we The second priority has to be with reflection. I have time to read, and that’s are now well past the 20 million mark. the mission of the church. We are here when I do some sermon preparation. My One of the challenges of a rapidly grow- for a mission; that’s how we define our- wife has also become a fairly early riser, ing church is, How do you hold such a selves constantly when we sit in coun- and we have some good time together global community together? So for me, sel. The Lord has asked us to be His in the morning. It’s a very creative block as a church leader, one of the high priori- witnesses, and thus I am compelled to of time for me, which prepares me for ties is the unity of the church. share the witness about Christ to all. We the day ahead. Now, we are bonded in the Spirit, have to be innovative, creative, finding as the Scripture teaches us. The Spirit ways through radio, through television, NS: What would you share with min- is the key element to hold us together, through satellite, through the Internet to isters who feel overwhelmed with their but even when you make that state- reach people that may not be reachable ministry and discouraged with their ment you have to work it. You have to in other ways. We must at least reach responsibility? nurture the bonds that bind us. And them in the sense that you can implant that means that you have to be strong a seed; the Holy Spirit will then have to JP: I think it is important that we all about that which we cannot give up. do with it as He pleases. recognize our humanity. Don’t try to Strong about that which is a must to our The element of unity in a rapidly be what you’re not. It is important that identity. And you have to be generous growing church and the element of we recognize and accept our limitations. about that which requires latitude. In a expanding mission represent to me two It’s also important to realize that we will global community with diverse cultures, of our big challenges. have lofty standards that we might not there will be certain differences because If I should mention a third one, it reach. It’s good to have standards, noble we have to obey God where we are. In would be giving to the youth—the age standards—even if you miss them from Africa it’s going to be different from Asia, group of 18 to 32, particularly students time to time. God asks no more than different from Europe and from America. and young professionals—a sense of own- that we do our best. So I think they are the elements of exact- ership in the church. To make sure that we ness—the definitions of what make us have not only reluctantly made space for NS: Let’s shift emphasis. What are some the Seventh-day Adventist Church—and them, but that we have actively invited of the broad issues and challenges facing there are elements of cultural diversity them to come in as partners in the life, the Adventist Church? within which worship expresses itself. mission, and ministry of the church.

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY 15 going to be part of the strongly by our church. So you find that life of that community we operate the largest Protestant educa- if senior leaders do not tion system in the world, with over 6,000 encourage them and in institutions touching the lives of one and fact embrace them. a half million youth and children every day. Secondly, we have always felt and NS: We just finished believed that the health of the body and a world session of the of the mind are important. As temples church—one that we of God we are under obligation to God, have every five years. as an act of worship, to keep ourselves What are some of the healthy. And, therefore, we run a num- visions that you have ber of health institutions, not only as a for the next five years? sort of body repair shops, but as centers There has been empha- for healing ministries, where we hold sis on the theme “Tell workshops and seminars. We’ve done the World.” What are this everywhere around the world. These some of the things that things have been hallmarks of our mis- come into your mind? sion activities. We have a deep emphasis on the Bible, while at the same time we JP: I feel that the church have a healing ministry as well. exists primarily for mis- sion. When everything NS: So then education and the health is said and done, if the work is not something that we do in church is not an instru- addition to the gospel? It is an integral ment of mission, then part of ministry? the church has failed to be what God wants JP: Absolutely! the church to be. We NS: Do you have any specific sugges- tell the world by word, by actions, and NS: You have emphasized the impor- tions for local congregations on how they by relationships. That’s how we com- tance of the Bible. What are some of the could help keep these youth involved? municate the message from Christ to ways you enjoy reading it? What happens those who do not yet know Him. That shortly after you get up at 4:30 a.m.? JP: To every local congregation I would has to be the first and foremost task of say this: Be sensitive to the presence of the church. JP: You know, I’ve gone through stages. the youth. Do not relegate youth to be When I returned from Africa to England observers. Bring them into the life of NS: So “Tell the World” isn’t a program? and began teaching at our Theological the church. And I must say, trust them. It’s a concept or an outlook? Seminary at Newbold College for our Allow the Holy Spirit to find expression ministers in Europe, I began using for through their creative ideas. JP: It’s a vision in which we are tell- the next decade the New English Bible. ing the public that we’re here to share To me it had such a beautiful rendition NS: Do you find the youth around the something important with you. We are of the poetic sections of the Bible. Not world enthusiastic for Jesus Christ and here to help you become acquainted just the Psalms. Isaiah reads beautifully the gospel? with Jesus Christ. in the New English Bible. I then went to the NIV. Early on, of course, I used JP: I find that there are many who are NS: What are some fundamental things KJV. I came to the NIV and again I found constantly searching for ways to make about the Adventist Church that have newness in it. And it’s probably the one I faith relevant to the challenges that made it a worldwide movement? What use primarily now when I preach. young people struggle with. They are does this tell us about our future? searching for answers to questions that NS: To another topic. How has the struc- are not easy to deal with. JP: From our very beginning we deter- ture of the Adventist church served us? You know that I have had some televi- mined that we would bring together— We have a system that’s gone through sion conversations with youth and young with the preaching of the word—educa- some changes over the years, but there professionals. They are saying, “Look, tion and the ministry of healing. That is a lot of similarity to that which we had it’s a choice I make about the church. I was part of a very, very deliberate vision when we were first organized and now. want to be part of the life of this commu- articulated comprehensively through How has it served us and where do you nity.” And there is no way that they are the writings of Ellen White and held to see us going into the future?

16 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 JP: The structure we set up as a church Stories of rapid growth, extraordinary is over a hundred years old. We set it up exploits for Christ, and with fruits that when we had a global membership of go so far beyond what people in other some seventy-five thousand. We are at parts of the world would think possible. this very time asking ourselves, Is this We praise the Lord for what is happen- the best way we can stay structured ing there. But it can be disheartening and organized? Given the shift in the for someone who lives in America or in population within the church, given the Europe or in Australia and New Zealand, fact that the talents and resources of the or in a certain part of Asia, Japan, or church are also widely distributed, we Hong Kong. Some of the big cities and need to look at things again. We have countries, where secular values have so agreed that we will bring together a settled into the minds of people, it’s very representative body from around the difficult for these people to see what world to look at the structures—to look God could possibly offer through the at the ministries which flow out from instrument of the Christian faith in Jesus these structures and ask ourselves, Is Christ and what God could possibly do this still the most effective way we can to improve their lives. do it? It may well prove to be. But we So it’s difficult, it’s tough, for ministers cannot assume that it is without looking who minister in these areas to see the critically and in an explorative manner. rapid expansion from elsewhere. And I So we’ll see where it takes us. would just say to them: “God does not expect anything but obedience where NS: We have a financial structure that you are. Don’t define your success in has probably in many ways helped our ministry by looking elsewhere. Just share worldwide expansion. Christ as effectively as you know how where you are. That’s all He’s asking. JP: Yes. And He will say to you, ‘Well done, ye good and faithful servant.’” Faithfulness NS: Do you see it continuing to serve has to do with faithfulness in the ministry the world church as well as it has in the where we are. past? NS: Thank you for sharing that. By the JP: I hope so, I hope so. We need to be time we publish this interview, it will be sure that our church globally sees itself a new year. We have no idea what the as one body and any weakness found in new year is bringing to us. What does one part of the body is supported by the the church need to do today to be ready strength that is found in another part of for whatever is before us? the body. I think it was God’s plan for us to share. And as a global community JP: The only preparation we can make we are financially intermarried; we do for the future is spiritual and in terms share our resources. Yes, I see that as of the basic fundamental decisions we continuing. I think when that ceases, make regarding others. These are the if it were to cease, we would quickly only decisions we can make for the become a regional church. future. As we look at what’s happened this past year and in the most recent NS: If you had an opportunity to speak years, it’s clear that we live in a very to all the Adventist ministers, what would unstable time. It will be a miracle if one you like to say to your colleagues in min- year were to pass and there would not istry? be a major disaster somewhere, either natural or man-made. I think this should JP: I would say . . . well, maybe many tell us that we need to be focused on the things. But one thought that comes to kingdom whose Builder and Architect is me is this: Because we’re a global com- Someone other than ourselves. We need munity, we hear stories coming from to keep focused on that. some parts of the world, particularly from the soil of southern Christianity. NS: Thank you very much.

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY 17

the whole endeavor. We are beginning to take these steps, although some mass-produced Bible studies and DVDs are not sensitive to this issue. I point out three attempts that have been made to be sensitive to this issue. Scott Griswold, now director of the Buddhist study center, as a missionary in Cambodia for- mulated a set of Bible studies for the Cambodian Buddhist people. While being totally biblical, the subjects chosen, the arrangement of top- ics, and the illustrations and stories used were all deliberately thought through with Cambo- dian communication in mind. The studies were extremely popular among our pastors, and many Doing theology non-Adventist Christians purchased the lessons because they saw their appeal. I have included a list of the topics covered in this lesson study in mission– series in Appendix 1. In 1995, a scholar—under the pseudonym Abdel Nur—published Bahakat Allah, a six-booklet part 2 study guide for Muslims. Since Abdel is always work- ing to improve, there may have been some revisions to this guide, but I have included in Appendix 2 a Jon L. Dybdahl nce a missiological conscious- list of topics covered in the 1995 edition. ness is understood and, hope- These guides not only use Muslim terminol- fully, practiced, what are the next ogy and deal with topics of concern to Muslims steps we can take to effectively but are arranged deliberately to lead Muslims proclaim the gospel? I suggest step by step into fuller knowledge of Jesus and Othat we must recognize three core changes that the deeper practice of the spiritual life. They are have taken place in our world and begin as much not only topically sequential but experientially as possible to adjust our mission practices to progressive as well. them. These are a new context, a new mode, During our pioneering missionary days in North and a new identity. Thailand, we began working among the moun- tain-dwelling animistic Hmong people. As family The new context by family people came to believe, we decided we Basic thesis: The earlier context of Adventist needed a song book. Many Hmong were illiterate, theology was mission to other Christians. The new but we adopted the Romanized Hmong formu- context is mission to a pluralistic world often domi- lated by earlier missionaries and began to teach nated by non-Christian religions. Hmong to read so they could use the Bible and song book. We also decided they should have a I vividly remember during my earlier years brief statement of our beliefs in the form of a simple as a missionary talking to some older Adventist catechism or question-and-answer format. Pastor missionaries to India. I asked them what their Leng and I worked on this belief statement, and evangelistic approach to Hindus was. They replied, we printed it in the back of the song book—the “We don’t go to Hindus. We search out Christians first Adventist Hmong book. I have often told Jon L. Dybdahl, Ph.D., and give them further light.” Even though India is people that this statement is the most important is the president of officially 82 percent Hindu and perhaps 14 percent theological document I have ever had a part in Walla Walla College, Muslim, they concentrated on the small Christian writing. I provide you a translation in Appendix 3. College Place, minority.1 This was undoubtedly easier for these Note that core Adventist beliefs are covered, but Washington. missionaries because their theological training all that the statement is simple, brief, and completely focused on reaching other Christians. set in the Hmong world of concern for evil spirits Translation of Bible studies, evangelistic ser- and the practice of the spiritual life. mons, and books does not do the trick. Frame- I make no claim of infallibility for any of these work, cultural issues, priorities, examples, and attempts, but plead that similar efforts be made subjects chosen all come from the Christian West. in all parts of the world so the gospel can be To reach other religions means a rethinking of heard clearly.

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY 19 The new mode material paid on. Other almsgiving The movement claims to be an ortho- Basic thesis: Traditionally Adventist is also encouraged. dox form of Christian faith. Belief in the theology has seen truth as doctrinal and 4. Fasting—Muslims fast between sun- Holy Spirit has been espoused by all used the modes of logic, rational argument, rise and sunset during the month of Christian creeds. What is new about the and philosophy to convince people to accept Ramadan. charismatic movement is the conviction correct belief. The “new” mode emphasizes 5. Pilgrimage—This pilgrimage to Mecca that God through the Holy Spirit is really experience. Truth is a living experience of takes place yearly and all Muslims are active in everyday life and can be expe- God’s presence, which involves an active called to do it at least once in their rienced. The primary ways emphasized devotional life, seeing God at work in daily lifetime. have been in fervent worship, speaking affairs, improving family and community Notice the nature of these five pil- in tongues, healing of physical and emo- life, and reforming ethics. lars. Only one, the first, is theological or tional problems, expulsion of demons, creedal. The other four deal with spiritual and various physical manifestations. While Scholars of societal change in North practice and ethics. To be a Muslim is to one may question the validity of some of America have noticed for years the trends live a Muslim religious experience. the experiences, we cannot quarrel with of postmodernism to emphasize experi- Take the example of Buddhism. Bud- the basic premise. Instead of simply con- ence in matters of spirituality. Books that dhism’s core teaching is the four noble demning this movement and presenting emphasize mission to contemporary life truths.4 These truths are (1) suffering is a our beliefs in a traditional way, who will have often given this trend an impor- universal fact; (2) the cause of suffering write/preach the first series that recasts tant place in their works.2 It is clear that is desire; (3) there is a state where we Adventism as a powerful experience of successful missionaries to contemporary can be free of desire and thus escape God’s presence and spell out how to be North American culture must be open to suffering; and (4) we arrive at that state a part of that life? The experiential aspect show Christianity as an experience, not by the eight-fold path. of the charismatic movement is, in my simply as a philosophical statement. The eight-fold path deals with moral- mind, its major driving force. Most North American churches have ity, including truth telling, theft, murder, Most realize that experience needs to not really grasped that point. Church immorality, etc. Paths four through six be balanced with thought and explana- membership is based on intellectually deal with concentration. This presents tion. Experience without such a balance believing certain things. This is part of a ways to get rid of evil thoughts and be is eventually lost. I am not suggesting heritage that emphasizes creeds, confes- aware of our world. Meditation and we abandon theological explanation or sions, and statements of belief. Adventists higher states of consciousness are called doctrinal truth but return to a biblical have probably done better than some in for. The last two paths call for wisdom. balance that makes truth lived/experi- this area since Sabbath observance and Notice again the heavy emphasis on enced truth. This is especially true in the ethical standards are part of the package, experience. The four noble truths address present-day missionary context. but still, for many, Adventism is under- directly the universal human experience of stood as basically acceptance of a list of pain and suffering. The eight-fold path talks The new identity intellectual doctrinal statements. about ethics, the practice of meditation, Basic thesis: Traditional Adventist Doctrinal truth is important, but bibli- and the spiritual life. Today many Buddhist identity has seen itself as a small remnant cal faith is always a lived-out/experienced sects are differentiated by the forms of among Christian churches. We are the ulti- faith. They must go together, and many meditation they practice. Most Christian mate Protestants with an ecclesiastical young Adventists do not see Adventism denominations are differentiated by doc- identity. The new identity awakens us to the as an experience of God. trinal beliefs, not spiritual practice. fact that we are not necessarily small (we When this fact dawned on me, I, as Lastly, consider the charismatic move- are the largest Protestant church in at least a missiologist, began to look at other ment. Birthed in the early months of the 14 countries,6 about the size of Judaism, religions. Even a simple look at the most twentieth century in the United States, and over half the size of Sikhism7), and it basic statements of these major faiths the movement has exploded world- may be time to think seriously about how showed how experiential they are, espe- wide. What began as a separate group we label ourselves. cially as compared to Christianity. of denominations later spread to other mainline denominations and has now I grew up feeling small and differ- Islam has five pillars.3 seen some of its convictions and part of ent as an Adventist. Different may still 1. Declaration of faith— “There is no its practice become well-nigh universal be true, but in many parts of the world god but God, and Mohammed is his in Christianity. The numbers of people and overall, the small is questionable. prophet.” involved and the percentage growth of Adventism in many areas of the world 2. Prayer—All Muslims are called to pray the movement are staggering. The actual is a major religious player. five times a day in the same way. membership of charismatic churches is What we must remember is that 3. Almsgiving—A set alms tax is required over 10 percent of the world’s population remnants begin small but need not and yearly with percentages varying from and about one-third of all Christians, but in most cases do not remain small. The 2 to 10 percent on the basis of the its influence spreads much further.5 small remnant of Jews who returned to

20 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 Jerusalem from Babylon did not remain Identity no. 2: Adventism as an Adventist movement identity that small. By the time of Jesus, Palestinian a movement that is more than a operates on three levels like the char- Judaism was the major force in the denomination. Traditionally we have ismatic one? religion. Christians saw themselves as the seen Adventism as a denomination that Identity no. 3: Adventism as a true remnant of Judaism. That remnant one must formally belong to in order to world religion. Adventism has clearly has in size far outstripped the original be classified as a Seventh-day Adven- presented itself as a Protestant denomi- piece of cloth in size. tist. This identity would broaden us to nation and has fought to be viewed as a What is of most concern for me here see some who have not formally joined legitimate orthodox nonheretical Chris- is the mindset of smallness. Too many see our organization as part of the “Adven- tian body. Is this the way it should be smallness as a framework for our mission. tist movement.” Adventists have long now and always? Because we are small and different, we believed, based on Ellen White’s teaching, My suggestion here is not having to cannot expect to get a hearing from large that non-Adventists will be saved. This do with changing our beliefs but with numbers of people. This is all wrong. If “the merely formally acknowledges this. viewing our identity. Christianity in many remnant” has truth, it has broad appeal and A model would be the charismatic parts of the world—especially Islamic can hold its own in the world of religious movement. Initially Pentecostals formed ones—is viewed as an extremely deca- ideas. Smallness thinking has often created denominations and expected those who dent religion. The identity of Christian- a sense of inferiority and a resignation to had their experience to join these denomi- ity with the western secular world is in rejection of the message, both of which nations. But this has begun to change since many parts of the world a serious barrier are counterproductive to mission. the mid ’50s, and the phenomenon has to proclaiming the message of Jesus. It Besides the issue of “smallness,” the quickly spread to other churches. Many is a label that has been corrupted and identity question raises also the issue of espoused most or all of the unique Pen- misused. To call oneself Christian in these how we view the nature of our religious tecostal teaching and experience but areas creates problems and barriers. community. I suggest here three possible remained in their original denomination. On the other hand, many of the reli- kinds of identities. Please remember that A third phase developed when in the gions of the world today grew out of these are tentative suggestions only and 1970s and ’80s10 elements of the Pente- other religions. The prime example is that there could also be some combi- costal experience were adopted gradually Christianity, whose earliest followers saw nation of these ideas that could make by many church groups. All these three themselves as a reforming sect of Judaism. sense as well. groups or levels together form the pres- They were the true Jews and only much Identity no. 1: Adventism as a pan- ent charismatic movement. later did a separate identity develop. religious movement drawing a remnant Could such a thing happen in Advent- Buddhism is often called the “middle from all religions. Adventists have com- ism? I’m not sure, but several things could way” because it sees itself as the moder- monly seen themselves as a remnant of be pointed out. Adventism began as a ate path between the extreme asceti- other Christians. Recently, a subtle shift has movement among churches, and many cism of Jainism and the self-indulgence taken place in the minds of some. They early leaders resisted formation of a of Hinduism. In many ways its core beliefs have begun to see the remnant as any denomination. In a sense, we would be and philosophies parallel those of Jain- from all backgrounds who respond to the going back to our roots. ism and Hinduism, yet it has positioned remnant message.8 The Adventist Church We should also point out that some itself as a reformer of these two other then proclaims the remnant message to of the same things that have happened world faiths. those in all religions who have been pre- in the charismatic movement have hap- I would suggest that Adventism has pared by God to hear it. This remnant may pened to us. The difference is that we some characteristics that make it fit more not necessarily join the visible institutional and others have not often pointed it out as a world religion than as a Christian form of the Adventist Church. or acknowledged it. When Adventism denomination. Major world religions all Abdel Nur has attempted to prag- was born, most Christians were postmil- have dietary restrictions or ideals. Few matically apply this concept and found lennialists who believed that the second Christians do. Conservative world reli- a movement based on it.9 He has helped coming of Jesus took place after 1000 gion communities have careful behavioral to found and nurture a movement that years of peace on earth. Now, although standards relating to dress, entertain- draws a remnant believing in the Sab- they may not agree with us on all points, ment, etc. Adventists can identify with bath and second coming from main- most Christians are premillennialists who this. The complete system of Adventism, stream Islam while allowing believers to believe as we do that Jesus’ second com- which includes educational and health continue to identify with their Islamic ing takes place before the millennium. institutions as well as churches, is shared culture and heritage. One of the things Some churches now worship on Sab- and appreciated by world religions. the church continues to do is to wrestle bath. There has been movement among In short, I believe we could position with how to relate to this new and cre- many Christian groups to Adventist-like ourselves as a world religion without ative remnant movement of the spirit. beliefs. What do we think of such things compromising our beliefs and perhaps This movement is one model for how and how should they shape our iden- even appear more credible in many parts this new identity might work. tity? Could it be possible to promote of the world.

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY 21 4 Ibid., 126–29. Conclusion my suggestions but rather that you will 5 David B. Barnett and Todd M. Johnson, “Annual I am by conviction and passion a mis- be inspired anew to use all your creativ- Statistical Table on Global Mission: 2004” in Inter- siologist. That means that my deepest ity and energy in fulfilling the task Jesus national Bulletin of Mission Research 28 (2004) 1:25. 6 Jon L. Dybdahl, “Adventist Mission Today” in concern is discovering how best we can called us to do. Adventist Mission in the 21st Century, ed. Jon L. fulfill Christ’s final commission to us, His Dybdahl (Review and Herald, 1999), 18. followers. Theology must arise out of that 1 Patrick Johnston, Operation World (Grand Rapids: 7 Barret and Johnson, 25. and serve that goal. That means my aim Zondervan, 1997), 274. 8 George Knight, “Remnant Theology and World 2 See, for example, Leonard Sweet, Soul Tsunami here has been to ask how the mission Mission” in Adventist Mission, ed. Dybdahl, 94. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1999), 185–235, and 9 Jerald Whitehouse, “Reaching the Muslim World” we have adopted can best be pursued Reggie McNeal, The Present Future (San Francisco: in Adventist Mission, ed. Dybdahl, 189–197. and how taking it seriously may affect Jossey-Bass, 2003), 56–61, 69–71. 10 Peter Wagner, How to Have a Healing Ministry in business as usual in the church. My hope 3 See, for example, David A. Brown, A Guide to Any Church (Ventura, Calif.: Regal Books, 1988), and prayer is not that you will accept all Religions (London: SPCK, 1975), 213–16. 37–64. Wagner seems to have originated this term.

Appendix 1: 1. Five articles of faith—signs of sacrifice. My worship is more complete as righteousness I make the confession of a true believer. Cambodian 2. Allah’s blessing through the Holy Books 1. The faith of Ibrahim and the great Bible Lessons 3. Overview of Torah, Zaboor, Injil sacrifice 4. How to study the Holy Books 2. Why a sacrifice? 1. Will there ever be justice? 5. Allah in the beginning—the story 3. The life of Isa el Masih—deliver- 2. The correct use of finances of creation, sin, and the fall ance from sin 3. Where did this world come from? 6. Introduction to the prophets 4. The great victory of Isa el Masih 4. The family 7. Prayer and personal piety 5. Allah’s eternal plan to restore 5. Sin honor in his family 6. Who knows the future? Book 3: Allah’s blessing for 6. The confession of the new believer 7. The difference between religions power and personal deliverance 8. The birth of the Savior Book 3 leads me to trust in Allah Book 5: Allah’s blessing through 9. Overcoming temptation for freedom from fear and in Isa as my my religious life 10. Jesus, a good teacher mediator for sin. This trust is deepened In Book 5 my trust and worship is 11. Power over evil spirits as I understand more about the last day tested as I learn more how the true believer 12. God protects us and how to personally prepare for that should live. The relationship is deepened 13. The power to raise the dead great event. as I learn of the power for obedience pro- 14. Jesus arrested and tried unjustly vided through the Holy Spirit. 15. The death of Jesus 1. Allah’s blessing of deliverance from 1. The special blessing of Allah’s 16. The resurrection of Jesus fear presence 17. The steps in conversion 2. Isa the mediator—who can save us? 2. Allah’s blessing in my lifestyle 18. God calls us to follow him 3. Preparing for the last day: Isa el 3. Prayer, alms, and fasting Masih’s coming described: the 4. Angels, saints, and dead men blessed hope 5. Allah’s special covenant Appendix 2: 4. Preparing for the last day: signs of 6. Allah’s sign of special blessing his coming 7. The great apostasy versus Allah’s sign Barakat Allah 5. Preparing for the last day: the blessing of the resurrection Book 6: Allah’s blessed people Study Guides 6. Allah’s blessing even in death in the last day 7. Preparing for the last day: the In Book 6 I am led to a fuller under- Book 1: Teacher’s guide: intro- judgment day standing of Allah’s last-day people and duction and overview 8. Paradise—the eternal blessing the fellowship of true believers, which 9. Preparing for the last day: Allah’s is a witness to God’s character among Book 2: Allah’s blessing through last day people my people. the scriptures and his messengers 1. The great apostasy and Allah’s call Book 2 leads me to a new trust in Book 4: Allah’s greatest bless- for restoration (Islam in prophecy) all the Holy Books, and of my need to ing—the great sacrifice 2. The purpose of the judgment day— know Allah better and for him to give In Book 4 my faith in Allah is deepened Allah is just me a new heart. Then I can worship him further as I understand the great plan 3. The millennium and the final end of with a clean heart. of Allah in providing the tremendous evil

22 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 4. Allah’s last-day people—the special to help us escape from sin and the end-time message for the world grasp of the evil spirits. 5. The new believer’s pilgrimage (bap- tism—sibghat Allah) 7. Q: How does our divine Savior Jesus 6. Last-day prophets help us escape from evil, punish- 7. Allah is worth serving—complete ment, and the grasp of the devil? restoration—the eternal blessing A: I believe that because our divine Savior Jesus died in our place on the cross, He has the power to Appendix 3: help us. If this is so, if we believe in our divine Savior Jesus and discard Hmong and renounce our spirit beliefs, Jesus will help us escape from evil Statement of and will wash our hearts, making them white and new. He will not Belief allow the spirits to have any power over us. The Way of Faith 8. Q: Will we always live on this earth, 1. Q: Who created the world? or will we go somewhere else? A: I believe that God (Hmong name A: I believe that if we believe in our for God—Vaj Tswv Saub) created divine Savior Jesus and wait for Him, the world, animals, and humans He will return to take us to live with in six days. Him in the new heavenly city He is preparing. We will live forever there, 2. Q: What is the Creator God like? and all sickness, pain, crying, and A: I believe that He has greater power death will be no more. than Satan and people. He loves us because He created us and is our 9. Q: If we die before our Savior Jesus Heavenly Father. returns, how will we rise from the dead? 3. Q: How should we worship this God A: I believe that when Jesus returns we speak of? the second time, He will bring us A: I believe that we honor and wor- back to life and give eternal life with ship Him when we sing and pray no more death. together and remember His creation by resting on the seventh day as He 10. Q: As we await the return of Jesus, gave us an example. how should we live? A: I believe that we should live as 4. Q: What was the world that God Jesus taught us. We should love created like? one another and join in teaching A: I believe that the world that God the Jesus message to those who do created was beautiful. Evil, sickness, not know it. We should live by the poverty, suffering, and death were Ten Commandments and keep our not present. bodies clean. We should not use opium or tobacco, drink liquor, 5. Q: Why then is the world today full or eat the meat that God has not of sickness, suffering, and death? given us permission to eat. We will A: I believe that because humanity give a tithe of our earnings to help disobeyed God, this caused all kinds spread the message of God to the of evil to spread over all of us. whole world.

6. Q: Who has the authority and power to 11. Q: What should we do to keep close help us escape evil and judgment? to God and avoid falling into sin? A: I believe that because God loved A: I believe that we should daily sing, us, He sent the divine Savior Jesus pray, and study God’s message.

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY 23 PACIFIC PRESS AD

24 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 R e s o u r c e s

Book Review Unfortunately, many leaders, pastors and without haste, encourages a relation- and educators still view children as being ship with the Good Shepherd. too young to understand the concepts This book is highly recommended for of salvation, worship and commitment. all church leaders, pastors, educators and CHILDREN MATTER, by Scottie May, These active, restless and busy children parents. Children Matter contains theories Beth Posterski, Catherine Stonehouse, and just can’t sit quietly during the worship as well as practical suggestions so that Linda Cannell. Grand Rapids, MI., William B. service. So let’s keep them separate church leaders can explore and try out Eerdmans Publishing Co., 374 pages, $20. from adult worship till they are older. new ideas. We can’t afford not to read But the authors in chapter 11 highlight this book! It is time the church takes o children really matter? Are recent neuroscience research findings this group of young members seriously. Dchurches really serious about chil- that are worth noting. Neuroscientists We need to get beyond just paying lip dren’s spirituality that the faith commu- see a connection between the limbic service to the welfare of our children in nity is involved in effectively nurturing system and religious experiences, and the church. Don’t be satisfied that we are its youngest members? Or, do we still that messages that come through the already providing children’s church and believe that children should be “seen and left hemisphere are regulated by emo- Bible classes for them. In our churches we not heard?” If we believe children today tions and relational responses through have made a commitment to welcome all are no longer expected to do that, then the limbic system. Thus, these scholars children, but we need to go beyond— we why do we still find in many churches advocate “letting young children know need to help them truly belong as valued children are still involved only in programs God initially rather than focusing on help- participants in the church for all of God’s designated for children? ing children know about Him.” Besides children. This book matters for churches Yes, children matter! The authors knowing God through memorizing a few where children matter! believe affirmatively that children mat- scriptural texts and knowing the Bible ter to God. They matter to the church lessons, letting children have time and —Reviewed by Linda Mei Lin Koh, Children’s of Jesus Christ because they are created space in worship or other church activities Ministries Director, Seventh-day Adventist in the image of God. From the study of where they can be present thoughtfully World Church. Scripture, we obtain a glimpse of God’s heart for children and His desire for chil- dren to be valued, welcomed, instructed, and seen as models of faith in the home and the church. Expanding on this, the authors examine biblical, historical, theo- logical and psychological foundations of our ministry to children. Through stories of their own ministry experiences, the authors provide practical insights on how to do ministry effectively with children, and how the faith community, the church, can be the primary setting of faith formation for children and their families. How welcome and accepted children feel and how fully they experi- ence the church and family powerfully influence the context that encourages or hinders their coming to Jesus. Thus, church leaders and pastors need to con- nect meaningfully with children and seek to provide a nurturing environment for children to grow by including them in all aspects of church life.

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY 25 Dateline

Representatives came from Bugema organization as one of the leading na- Editor’s Note: Dateline, a new feature of University (Uganda), Solusi University tional volunteer agencies deployed in Ministry magazine, begins this month. (Zimbabwe), University of Eastern Africa disaster relief. News items of interest to clergy, about (Kenya), Valley View University (Ghana), The inconceivable damage caused clergy or other reports will be featured. Helderberg College (South Africa), and by Hurricane Katrina on August 29 and We welcome your submissions. Please church offices from Zimbabwe, Ghana Hurricane Rita on September 24, 2005 send to [email protected]. and the world headquarters (USA). spawned an unprecedented response A similar group will meet in December from caring donors who have contrib- 2006 after which guidelines will be issued. uted over $2 million to provide long- Theological consultation The meeting will be held at University of term aid for the hurricane evacuees. in Africa Eastern Africa, Eldoret, Kenya. These funds have been designated for the “Community Rebuilding Project” omerset West, South Africa: and will be allocated by ACS’ partners SSome fifteen theologians gathered who are working throughout the Gulf at Helderberg College on November Relief available for Coast states. 29-30, 2005 to present and respond to hurricane victims Experienced disaster responders papers on “Spiritualistic Issues Facing estimate that it will take a minimum of the Adventist Church in Africa.” All ilver Spring, Maryland, USA: two years to complete the “Commu- the papers were presented by individu- SAdventist Community Services nity Rebuilding Project” and to meet als who are currently teaching in Africa (ACS), the humanitarian agency of the the evacuees’ ongoing need for emer- or are from Africa. The eleven papers Seventh-day Adventist Church working gency supplies. With commitment to the presented dealt with such topics as witch- within the United States and Bermuda, long-term recovery efforts, ACS Disaster craft, magic, casting out of demons, and has provided Disaster Response services Response volunteers continue to manage ancestor worship. Three of the papers for more than 30 years, with over ten eight warehouses and fifteen donation addressed the topic of how to minister to thousand trained volunteers. The Federal distribution centers where food, water, victims of spiritual powers from different Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) ice, personal care kits, cleaning supplies perspectives. and Homeland Security recognized this and other necessary items are made avail- able to the survivors. Currently, ACS volunteers have managed about $40 million worth of goods through the eight multi-agency warehouses at an approximate cost of $200,000. “For every dollar ACS has spent for expenses, our volunteers have delivered $200 of product to the survi- vor,” said Joe Watts, National ACS Disas- ter Response Director. Additionally, the international agency, Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) continues to aid hurri- cane Katrina survivors and evacuees as well as focusing on long-term development. Currently ADRA has funded close to $1 million through local partners and organizations that are directly involved L to R: D. R. Asafo and Brempong Owusu- in emergency response programs pro- Anti from Valley View University and Angel viding food, clothing and other relief M. Rodriguez of Biblical Research Institute. Photo by Nikolaus Satelmajer items for evacuees. Additionally more

26 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 than $1.2 million worth of personal care Eight thousand many. An additional 20,000 blankets and supplies, new clothing, food, cleaning theologians meet 6,000 hygiene kits have been ordered and supplies and general items for evacuees will soon be delivered as well. has been distributed. hiladelphia, Pennsylvania, USA: For more information, visit www. Funding has also been made avail- PSeveral hundred Adventist scholars adra.org able for a project sponsoring more than met in Philadelphia during the latter part 1,000 volunteers who will implement of November 2005. Each year more than relief and rehabilitation projects in the 8,000 religion scholars from various parts Gulf Coast. The program, implemented of the world meet and during that time Bans on religious by the Center for Youth Evangelism, will Adventist scholars convene to present expression confronted provide housing, food, and basic neces- papers in their groups and also to the sities for volunteers. large gathering. igüenza, Spain: Highly-controver- For more information, visit www.com- A special feature was a dinner dur- Ssial bans on religious expression, such munityservices.org. or www.adra.org ing which Raoul Dederen, professor as the French government’s outlawing of emeritus at Andrews University, along the Islamic headscarf in public schools with his wife Louise, pioneer archivist, and a recent court judgment on a Turkish was honored. Angel Rodriquez, director government headscarf prohibition, have New radio program for of the Biblical Research Institute pointed brought a detailed response and analysis the Fulani out that many of those present were once by religious freedom experts. students of Dederen. It was announced The Board of Experts of the Inter- aroua, Cameroon: In a re- that a forthcoming book is being dedi- national Religious Liberty Associa- Mmote region of Africa between cated to Dederen. Dederen not only tion (IRLA) meeting in Sigüenza, Spain, the Sahara desert in the north and the served for many years as a professor of November 12 to 16, 2005, took issue with wetter tropical areas of the south live theology at Andrews University, he also the blanket ban on the wearing or display a people called the Fulani. It is a soci- represented the church at various theo- of religious symbols in state schools. ety with more than 20 million people logical meetings. “While states clearly have the right who are held together by a dominate to ensure a good educational environ- religion and language that Adventist ment for learning, we consider this ban World Radio (AWR) has been long- on religious expression as extreme and ing to reach. a violation of an individual’s religious With the help of the Seventh-day freedom,” said John Graz, secretary Adventist Conference for North Camer- general of the IRLA. oon, a new radio studio has been built In a document entitled “Guiding in Maraua, Cameroon. Soon AWR studio Principles Regarding Student Rights to staff will begin producing messages of Wear or Display Religious Symbols,” the hope to the Fulani people in Fulfude, IRLA experts spell out specific concerns, their own language. commenting that “It is not the role of “I first learned about Jesus when I the state to decide to interpret the sig- Raoul Dederen heard The Voice of Hope on my radio,” nificance of a religious symbol for an says an AWR listener. “When I decided to individual or a community.” become a Christian, I was driven out of “The right to manifest belief is a vital our home. All of my properties, including part of religious freedom as defined by the my cows, were seized. I had to leave the Earthquake relief normative international documents, and area for fear of being killed.” this includes the right to manifest belief by “While it is often difficult to see hope uzzafarabad, Pakistan: Ad- wearing and displaying religious symbols amidst the oppression and despair of our Mventist Development and Relief and clothing,” they further conclude. brothers and sisters around the world,” Agency (ADRA) continues to bring relief Recommendations include respecting writes Benjamin D. Schoun, president, to victims of the recent earthquake in the rights of students and parents, the Adventist World Radio, “we are constantly Pakistan. Tents and food kits have been seeking of solutions on a case-by-case basis, reminded of the power of prayer. This delivered to 300 families in Bagh District, and that “Legislation establishing a total project, which was once merely a vision, an area badly damaged by an earthquake ban on the wearing of religious symbols has now developed into an outlet of near Muzzafarabad, Pakistan. in public educational settings should be opportunity for the Fulani people.” In addition, ADRA is in the process of avoided because it tends to be unneces- For more information, visit www. delivering more than 200 tents, and 10,000 sarily insensitive to those acting on sincere awr.org blankets that have been donated by the religious beliefs and often does more to organization’s offices inSweden and Ger- inflame than reduce social tensions.”

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY 27 Letters continued —

For what they’re worth, my four Christ-centered life; all potent ingredients I once suggested to a ministerial answers to “What’s New About the New well worth examining. secretary that he use some retirees at Covenant?” were, (1) The Person of Jesus; —Daniel Jacobson, Lumby, British Columbia, a workers’ meeting to share what years (2) The Promise of Resurrection; (3) The Canada of ministry had taught them. I thought Presence of the Spirit; and (4) The Power then, and still do, that we would have of Love. Bathed with sunshine of had some worthwhile things to say. Thanks for sending Ministry in my sweet memories We use retired laymen on committees, direction. just finished reading your interest- even the Conference Committee. Sad —Calvin Burrell, Editor, Bible Advocate, Iing editorial in the October Ministry to say very few Conference administra- Denver, Colorado, USA magazine, “Images of a Pastor, My First tors recognize the value of a largely Pastor.” It brought a flood of memories untapped reservoir among their retired Another look at evil into my thinking and I felt a warmth workers. recently read the November issue of and gentle kindness I had not felt in I would like to see things improve. I IMinistry magazine and found it to be my reading of Ministry. You see, I too would hate to see a sad situation become helpful, as always. I especially appreci- knew and admired Stuart R. Jayne before even worse. ated Clifford Goldstein’s The Inexplicable I moved from the Northern California —Name Withheld Unexplained. It is indeed time for “another Conference to pastor back East in Wis- look at evil,” to make sure we don’t blame consin and Michigan. As I read I saw his Thanks and appreciation God for what God does not do. tall frame, gentle smile, and heard his s always, Ministry is a must read when —David Robert Black, Pastor, Calvary and kind voice as you painted word memo- Ait arrives. Covenant Presbyterian Churches in Warren, ries in my mind. Both he and Ruth were I especially appreciated the Novem- Ohio, USA wonderfully thoughtful servants of Christ. ber 2005 issue articles on pp 23 and I loved the twinkle in his eye, the kind- 25, re: “Ministry Lessons from War” and Kudos ness in his voice and his genuine love “Retirement: An Unfinished Ministry.” ear Sirs: Many kudos to Goldstein for for people—they all bathed me with the I appreciated the article on the mili- Dexplaining the unexplainable. sunshine of sweet memories. tary chaplaincy as I am a retired military —Ann Walper, Lancaster, Tennessee, USA Thank you for your tribute to our chaplain with 26 years of active military pastor and friend. duty with the United States Military. I Especially blessed —Bruce Babienco, email retired in 1975. Since military retirement, have been receiving Ministry magazine I have been active in military organiza- Ifor several years and am much blessed Only retirees could write such tional affairs. I served as National Chap- by reading it. I want to thank you for an article lain for the Military Order of the Purple sending it to me so faithfully. have just read and reread the article Heart for seven years. I am known as In this latest issue (November 2005), Iin the November issue of Ministry by Padre Jeff. I was especially blessed by the article Myrna Tetz and Cliff Sorensen regarding The article was to the point and a on page 16 by Ed Gallagher on Hudson retirement. One of my reactions was that direct object lesson to any clergy, military Taylor. My wife and I wanted to go only retirees could write such an article or otherwise. to China as missionaries, but that was because only they could reflect reality The retirement article spoke so loud during the revolution and could not go. so accurately. it did not need voice or words. I was We went instead to Japan and after 33 I, too, am retired. I believe I was loved ordained in 1952 as a Lutheran. Upon years there retired in 1984. and appreciated when I was in active retirement from military duty, I figuratively God bless you for your wonderful ministry. I had the privilege of serving on dropped out of sight and mind as far as magazine. church administrative committees. I have the civilian church was concerned. —Rev. Kenneth Henry Mukilteo, Washington, offered my services to two ministerial My service to military organizations USA secretaries, but have not even received kept me alive spiritually and mentally. a reply from either. I receive a letter from Recently, three of us military chap- Hudson Taylor the Conference president once a year (the lains began a mission church in a local lease publish more articles like Gallag- same letter every conference member city. We are respectively 68, 71 and I am Per’s inspiring story on Hudson Taylor. receives). It is an appeal for a generous 82 years of age. Ezekial 34 has some powerful compari- contribution to the Evangelism Fund pro- The people are responding to the sons of effective ministry and ministry moted very heavily at campmeeting. We gospel message not our ages. I told gone wrong. Seems to me Hudson Taylor do get a little news packet from time to them that Moses was 80 when he led was doing something right and effective. time regarding some happenings in the the Exodus, I am 82 and I am two years Childhood education and influences, conference. There is no personal contact behind time and must catch up. combining medical and missionary work, and absolutely no indication that they Retire? I have not found it or its mean- adapting to local customs, prayer, and a know or care if I exist. ing in our Judeo-Christian scripture.

28 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 Letters continued —

Thanks for your interest in ministry words made more thorough) is profitable In the book, some twenty Adventist and those of us who serve in this capacity, for many Christians. Thank you again. scholars present a rather comprehensive retired or otherwise. —Gen Landon, United Methodist Church, overview of priesthood and ministry, —J. Jeffrey, email retired pastor, Nampa, Idaho, USA beginning at the gates of Eden. The even- PS Will use your magazine article as handed and obvious commitment of each The hours and days drag on reference when I address a study early author to discover what the Bible teaches n response to the article “A look at suf- next year. us about the ministry of women yesterday Ifering—again!” (October 2005) by Rose and today was another refreshing find. LeBlanc. At last a writer who expresses A sure path to pastor burn out! Nancy Vyhmeister may be professor exactly the sentiments of so many— there s a hospital chaplain and a psycho- emerita, but I hope Ministry won’t let her seems to be no reason and no good Atherapist, pastoral counselor, I must “gather dust” or be “shelved” any time appears to come from the suffering we take issue with Dr. King in his article soon. often experience in families and friend- “Available?” in the November 2005 —Ken Lockwood, pastor, Porterville, Califor- ships. Too many writers and theologians issue. What he proposes is a sure path nia, USA have tried to answer the question of suf- to pastor burn out! The ideal situation fering but none of them can answer my would be to have the phone transferred A regular feature? questions—why did my mother and sister to a church staff person or volunteer’s Thank you for the article by Elder Zack- both die miserable deaths at 54 years of cell phone during off hours. Another rison, “My Personal Classics. . .” I wish that age, 20 years apart, leaving broken and option would be to have the answering this would be a regular feature in your disintegrating families? Why did my other system page the on-call person when a magazine. I am just out of the seminary vibrant, bright and friendly sister have a message is left. With today’s technology and I know that lists like this would be a stroke at only 63 years of age, unable to be either would work. great benefit to the development of my the hospitable minister’s wife and a loving The whole idea of having a pastor on library. It also may encourage ministers grandmother to her young grandchildren call 24/7 feeds into the messiah complex my age to read. I talk to many colleagues who had adored her? Now my 54-year- that all of us in ministry are susceptible my age about reading and often their old friend is dying— a woman who is to. I see this problem frequently in my comments are, “I don’t have time,” or appreciated by all who enjoy her artistic counseling of pastors. They are burned out “Why do I need to read?” Maybe if they giftedness and one who wants to con- shells but they feel that they are the only saw that the top pulpits out there and tinue her outreach for people all around ones who can handle the problems that the leaders of our church were voracious the world. What good does all this do? people bring to the church. On the other readers they too would be encouraged There are no answers and we must just hand the people think that only the pastor to read. I would probably have never wait for completion of this sorrow when can help them. It is a vicious cycle. even considered two-thirds of the books Jesus comes. Thank you, Rose, for your —Rev. T. Patrick Bradley, Director of Pastoral Zackrison had suggested if that article had kind article. I agree, the hours and days Care, United Medical Center, Cheyenne, not been in your magazine. Please print till His coming, drag on. Even so, please Wyoming, USA more articles just like that! come soon Lord Jesus. PS Life is full of these things but I Thank you. —Joy Butler, Director of Women’s Ministries/ really like Ministry or I wouldn’t bother —Chad Stuart, Associate Pastor, Calhoun Prayer Ministries Coordinator, South Pacific to write. Adventist Church, Calhourn, Georgia, USA Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Wahroonga, NSW, Australia The Bishop, husband of one wife Having just completed in our con- Profitable for many Christians gregation another season of examin- Corrections: hank you for Ron Carter’s article on ing/selecting church leadership, I In the November Letters page, a Tevolution in your September ’05 found Nancy Vyhmeister’s article, “The portion of a sentence was inadvertently issue of Ministry. I appreciate his bal- bishop, husband of one wife: What does omitted from “Earth’s Altered Geology anced and good-sense approach. If only it mean?” (October 2005) crisply writ- and Geography,” (third column, first para- more people could approach problems ten and confirming. She dispassionately graph). The sentence should have read, that way. Editors could have more fully opens the biblical text to discover what “This process is precipitated by a small adapted this article that originally was it says—and what it does not say. group (humans or other animals) becom- position paper to a Faith and Science With this reading experience fresh in ing isolated from its larger community, thus Conference, “with the Ministry reader mind, I reached for a dusty volume on one losing its access to a gene pool that has a family in mind.” I only hope readers did of my shelves: Women in Ministry/Biblical richer variety among its members.” not give up on the article because of the and Historical Perspectives, (1998 Andrews In the “Book Review” (p. 28), the scientific words which were not often University Press), edited by Nancy (the dust author’s name should have been listed enough explained. Mr. Carter’s article represented my neglect to read it, thinking as: Hans K. LaRondelle. (with better explanations of “tough” I understood something of the issues!). We apologize for these errors.

J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY 29 P a s t o r ’ s P a s t o r

More

he unreality of most resolutions is in gies. Anyone who believes their mother direct proportion to their inherent is the best cook in the world has never Tinability to be kept—this year I will traveled far. reduce my weight back to the thirty-two James A. Cress More giving. Never apologize for inch waistline I enjoyed at age 13. Like asking people to give. Teach and preach Israel raising its collective hand to pledge stewardship—both systematic and project “all that the Lord has said, we will do,” benevolence. The hearts of your members our promises focus on the intent of our will end up in exactly the same place as own efforts more than on our expecta- their treasure. tions for heaven’s empowerment. More focus. You will never do On the other hand, some resolutions everything you would like to accom- not only are possible, they are essential plish. Success requires prioritizing. for increased effectiveness in ministry. Know and understand your limitations Relying on the Holy Spirit’s power, I corporate spiritual welfare. Pastor with and determine where to expend your believe we can expect and experience compassion. energies. “This one thing I do” brings more in this new year. Specifically . . . More quality. Clergy lead too many greater results than “These many things More confidence. God is still on slap-dashed services which have been I intended!” His throne and we can trust Him. We can cobbled together in the vestry rather than More affirmation. Appreciation even trust Him with our own experience planned and prayed into excellence. Even motivates those upon whom our success of sanctification.“Being confident of this the holy angels cannot sustain interest depends. Begin with your spouse and kids very thing, that He who has begun a good in such lame offerings. and move on to your elders, laity leaders, work in you will complete it until the day More opportunities. Too many school teachers. If you really want to stir of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6). pastors perform too much work them- things up, drop a thank you note to your More discernment. Too often, selves rather than recruiting, training, and judicatory leaders. winds of unsound doctrine and tickling deploying laity leaders. And too many More help. Your encouraging tele- falsehoods fascinate our members and ignore the available effective ministry phone call or thoughtful note may be even captivate our preaching. Through leadership potential of our women and just the lift a colleague needs to sustain the Holy Spirit’s power, we can “measure youth that comprise seventy percent of burdens that seem overwhelming. If you twice and cut once” rather than advanc- the membership. think you ought to contact someone— ing every whim and rumor. More vision. Pray heaven to show you ought to! More invitations. Extending gospel you the possibilities beyond just next More reconciliation. Sometimes invitations is really a choice. If we con- week’s service or next month’s paycheck. that note or telephone call needs to be clude every message with a call to accept Pray and prepare for where God wants an apology. Even attempting a restora- Jesus, results will multiply. Reject making your congregation to be five new years tion of fractured relationships eases your calls only when you suppose someone is from today. own soul and initiates a process that may present who needs to make a decision More mission. And pray heaven to produce healing later on. but rather upon the reality that someone awaken a sense of global need; a view More hope. Return again and again needs to decide upon that which you beyond your own precincts. The vitality to the certainty of Jesus’ promised return. have preached with specific purpose. of your local congregation will be directly Preaching the blessed hope both moti- Otherwise, why did you preach? impacted by the distance it can see and vates and prepares your members. If More growth. The fields are ripe, then participate in ministry beyond its you’re ever in doubt as to what to say, ready for harvest. Do not pray for greater own borders. preach the Second Coming. results; pray for reapers. More tolerance. Remember, your More Jesus. Make our Lord the More concern. Thousands attend way is not the only way. Familiarity does theme of every sermon, the center of worship services longing to hear some not guarantee success. Try new methods every doctrine, the focus of every prayer, good news. They hunger and thirst to see and respect those who may differ. While and the reason for every call. Jesus and His righteousness and deserve we need unity in doctrine, we desperately And what will this produce? our deep concern for their individual and need tolerance for differing methodolo- More!

30 MINISTRY J a n u a r y  0 0 6 HERE WE TUESDAY, MARCH 21, 2006 [Repeat broadcast March 22, 2006] GROW AGAIN!

Roy Adams, an associate Marguerite Shuster William G. Johnsson is Haddon W. Robinson editor of Adventist Review, turns to the Word in each editor and executive publisher of is the Harold John Ockenga hails from the Caribbean of her roles: as a woman, a AdventistReview and editor of the Distinguished Professor of nation of Grenada, and was pastor, and as a teacher. A new AdventistWorld magazine. Preaching at Gordon-Conwell the first candidate to finish a professor of preaching at Fuller A theologian who has taught in Theological Seminary, and he doctoral degree in Systematic Theological Seminary who has India and the United States, his is widely regarded as an expert Theology at the Seventh- been on the faculty there since writing ministry has spanned a in the area of preaching. Dr. day Adventist Theological 1992, Shuster holds a Ph.D. in gamut of subjects over several Robinson was named one of the Seminary. His pastoral ministry psychology. She is an ordained decades. He has authored books twelve most effective preachers began at the West Toronto minister of the Presbyterian on prophecy, Bible study and in the English-speaking world in Seventh-day Adventist Church, Church (U.S.A.) who has served theology, including two on the a 1996 Baylor University poll. He and he is the author of four as an associate pastor for six book of Hebrews. Before joining is one of the hosts for Discover books, including his latest, years and a solo Pastor for five the Adventist Review, Johnsson theWord (formerly Radio Bible Crossing Jordan: Joshua, years. Her books and articles had been an associate dean and Class), a daily radio program of Holy War and God’s Unfailing about the dynamics of good and aprofessor at Andrews University RBC Ministries in Grand Rapids, Promises (Review and Herald). evil, as well as on Paul Jewett’s Theological Seminary, having MI, which is broadcast 600 Christology, have pointed previously been the dean of the times a day on stations around readers back to the Word. School of Theology at Spicer the world. His book, Biblical College in Puna, India. Preaching, is currently used as a text in 120 seminaries and Bible colleges around the world.

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J a n u a r y  0 0 6 MINISTRY 31 GENERAL CONFERENCE OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS Nonprofit Organization MINISTRY U.S. Postage 1350 N. KINGS ROAD PAID NAMPA, ID 83687-3193 Nampa, ID Permit No. 147 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED