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Preacher's Magazine Church of the Nazarene

6-1-1992 Preacher's Magazine Volume 67 Number 04 Randal E. Denny (Editor) Olivet Nazarene University

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Recommended Citation Denny, Randal E. (Editor), "Preacher's Magazine Volume 67 Number 04" (1992). Preacher's Magazine. 602. https://digitalcommons.olivet.edu/cotn_pm/602

This Journal Issue is brought to you for free and open access by the Church of the Nazarene at Digital Commons @ Olivet. It has been accepted for inclusion in Preacher's Magazine by an authorized administrator of Digital Commons @ Olivet. For more information, please contact [email protected]. The Year of Preaching

BRINGING THE WORD INTO THE WORLD

PREACHING TO WOMEN CULTIVATING THE FINE ART OF STORY PREACHING

THE THREE MOST COMMON MISTAKES EVEN GOOD PREACHERS MAKE o Godlet me preach with enthusiasm because of what Christ didnot because of what the crowds think; because of the salvation we have, not the size of the group we have. Use m e O God!, not because it's the hour for the message, but because You’ve given me a message for the hour. —Ed Towne

SUITABLE FOR FRAMING y EDITORIAL Preaching— Putting Light into People's Faces by Randal E. Denny Spokane, Wash. hen Edward Rosenow was God. Pastors can do nothing with you will be left adrift on a glassy sea, a small boy, his brother more direct and eternal results than with no wind of the Spirit to carry became seriously ill. preaching God’s written Word to our you forward toward God’s good king­ WThe family was panicked with fear generation. dom of life” (p. 21). as they watched the physician exam­ One fellow wrote of his major de­ Every pastor I know has to learn ine his brother. Edward kept his eyes nomination, which is losing mem­ how to handle interruptions that riveted on his parents’ anguished bers by the shiploads, hinder the sermon—unscheduled faces. At last the doctor turned to his The church is making pro­ social events; ringing telephones; parents and said with a smile, “You moters out of preachers. . . . Look­ emergencies that necessitate his im­ can relax. Your boy is going to be all ing over some current promotion­ mediate help; physical tiredness right.” al materials, I am wondering how from welldoing; the unending, Young Edward was profoundly im­ a preacher today can find time to ceaseless, required committee meet­ pressed with the visible change in prepare an effective sermon. Ser­ ings; and on and on. But God has his parents’ expressions. Years later mons do not come out of thin air; called the preacher to preach—-and he said, “I resolved then and there they come out of hours spent with to preach with expectancy and en­ that I was going to be a doctor—so God in prayer and study. thusiasm and inspiration and consis­ that I could put light in people’s Our world needs preaching with tency. He has commissioned us to faces.” biblical depth and the anointing of deliver His “mail” to a world that That is also the joyful privilege of the Holy Spirit. Gerald Sloyan in­ needs good news that will light up preaching the good news of Jesus— sisted, “Preaching well is a great la­ their faces! putting light in people’s faces! Eliza­ bor. That is the chief reason it does G. Ray Jordan, in his book Preach­ beth Achtemeier, in her book So not happen very often. . . . People ing During a Revolution, wrote: You re Looking for a New Preacher, are dying of triviality” (ibid., 15). The minister’s task makes such said, “Most church members rank The value of good preaching can­ demands that he must become de­ preaching as their highest priority in not be relegated to the sidelines of voted to the hours of daily study. selecting a minister to lead them. our ministry. When I am studying Besides preaching there are many . . . The list of a modern minister’s and thinking and praying and pre­ other skills he must learn and nu­ roles could be expanded almost paring with diligent care, I am do­ merous activities in which he will endlessly. But nothing that your min­ ing ministry. Our people work hard have to engage. If, however, he ister does will be more important all week in secular employment, and does not know how to preach, he than preaching” (pp. 1, 4). She they come before us in our sanc­ may not get the chance to partici­ noted also, “The first impression tuaries to see how we have spent our pate in the others (p. 41). that visitors . . . will have of your week with Jesus and His Book. They In this “Year of Preaching,” would church will be formed largely by are asking, “What have you found you join me in going back to the ba­ what they hear from your pulpit” that will help us through our com­ sics of our God-given assignment: (pp. 4-5). ing weeks?” “Devote yourself to the public read­ This year has been designated Gerald Griffiths, a pastor in Toron­ ing of Scripture, to preaching and to “The Year of Preaching.” To me, to, remarked, “Every week God gives teaching. Do not neglect your gift” such an announcement urges us me bread for my people.” (1 Tim. 4:13-14). Rekindle the per­ back to the basics of our call from His friend and fellow preacher sonal thrill of standing before your Stuart Briscoe replied, “That’s true, people to preach the good news of but you spend a lot of time in the Jesus. Said James S. Stewart: kitchen.” Every Sunday morning, when it Someone has paraphrased, “Now comes, ought to find [the preach­ abideth administration, counseling, er] awed and thrilled by the re­ preaching, but the greatest of these flection—“God is to be in action is preaching.” Achtemeier insists, today, through me, for these peo­ “Where the pulpit leads, there the ple; this day may be crucial, this church follows, and no matter what service decisive, for someone now his or her other qualifications, if the ripe for the vision of Jesus” (Her­ candidate you choose cannot preach, alds of God). $

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 1 CUIIVKIAL------iPreacher's Preaching— Putting Light into People’s Faces MAGAZINE Randal E. Denny 1 Volume 67 Number 4 June/July/August 1992 p r e a c h i n g

Editor Bringing the Word into the World Randal E. Denny Ian Macpherson 4

Assistant Editor Cindy Osso Preaching to Women Jill Briscoe 8 Consulting Editors Bill M. Sullivan, Director Division of Church Growth The Call Church of the Nazarene Louie E. Bustle 9 Wilbur W. Brannon, Director Pastoral Ministries Church of the Nazarene Cultivating the Fine Art of Story Preaching Wayne E. Caldwell, General Editor The Wesleyan Church C. S. Cowles 10 The Christian Use of Humor Contributing Editors General Superintendents Montford Lee Neal 18 Church of the Nazarene Eugene L. Stowe Jerald D. Johnson The Power of Preaching John A. Knight Raymond W. Hum L. Milton Hankins 19 William J. Prince Donald D. Owens Blackwood’s Prime Pointers for Preachers Superintendents The Wesleyan Church 20 O. D. Emery Leslie Conrad, Jr. Earle L. Wilson Lee Haines The Three Most Common Mistakes Harry C. Wilson Superintendents Even Good Preachers Make Evangelical Friends Church Stanley Perisho Kenneth J. Collins 22 Maurice Roberts John P. Williams, Jr. How to Tell a Good Story Howard E. Harmon General Superintendent Jean Gray 24 Churches of Christ in Christian Union Dan Tipton Art in Preaching General Conference Secretary David Vardaman 25 Brethren in Christ Church R. Donald Shafer MISSIONS

Cover Photo: William Pope All unidentified Scripture quotations are from The Holy The Many Faces of Mission Education Bible. N ew International Version copyright © 1973. 1978, 1984 by the International Bible Society, and are used by David F. Nixon 28 permission o f Zondervan Bible Publishers. Quotations from the following versions are used by per­ PASTOR'S PFPSONAI GROWTH mission. The Jerusalem Bible (JB), copyright © 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd.. a nd Doubleddy & Co., Inc. The N ew A m erican Standard Bible (NASB), © The Lock- I Quit! man Foundation, 1960,1962,1963,1968,1971,1972,1973, 1975, 1977. Greg Mason 30 The Revised Standard Version o f the Bible (RSV). co p y­ righted 1946, 1952, © 1971, 1973. The Living Bible (TLB), © 1971 by Tyndale House Publish­ HINDERING HANG-UPS ers, W heaton, III. The New Testament in the Language of the People (Williams), by Charles B. Williams. C opyright 1937 by Bruce The Hang up of Realism Humphries, Inc.; assigned 1949 to M oody Bible Institute, C hicago. Raymond C. Kratzer King James Version (KJV). 31

The Preacher's Magazine is published quarterly by Bea­ PASTOR, BE FNCOURAGED con Hill Press o f Kansas City. 2923 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64109. Editorial offices a t 6401 The Paseo, Kansas City, MO 64131. Address all correspondence concerning sub­ scriptions to your denominational publishing house. Sub­ Lessons from a Rocket scription price: $7.50 per year. Copyright 1992 by Beacon Hill Press of Kansqs City. Litho in U.S.A. C. Neil Strait 32

2 THE PREACHER S MAGAZINE MINISTER’S MATE The Real Me Beverly Caruso 33 Twelve Basketfuls Margie L. Stewart 34 The Blessings of Obedience DehbiL. White 35

THEOLOGY Communion: Closed or Hilariously Open J. Kenneth Grider 37 Preacher's CHUPCH GROWTH Exchange Turning the Small Church Around Kim L. Richardson 38 After 56 years preaching A Prayer and evangelizing, I have Michael Roderick 41 plenty of good books, which I would like to dis­ CHURCH ADMINISTRATION pose of at a very reasonable price. Preferably I would Leadership Needed like to sell all together. Col­ Neil Hightower 42 leges may be interested in them for their library. STEWARDSHIP Please contact me at: 1120 Cedarcliff Dr. The Preretirement Years: Health Care Planning Glen Burnie, MD 21060 Gary B. Morsch, M.D., M.P.H. 43 301-760-4513

PASTORAL CARE —H. Slater Helping Families Survive Stillbirth Victor M. Parachin 44

WESLEYANA Wanted: The Christian Faith Catholic Spirit by O. A. Curtis John Wesley Heaven Can Wait Interpreted by Mark Royster 47 Please Contact: CHRISTIAN MINISTRY Rev. Homer L. Max R.R. 3, Box 217 How Pastors Can Cope with Betrayal Knoxville, IA 50138 J. Grant Swank, Jr. 48 515-842-6128

TODAY’S BOOKS FOR TODAY’S PREACHERS 51

ARK ROCKER Striving to Be Average 52

WORSHIP AND PREACHING HELPS Carlton D. Hansen 53

Authors should address all articles and correspondence to Editor, The Preacher's Magazine, 10814 E. Broadway, Spokane, WA 99206. Self-addressed, stamped enve­ lopes should accompany all manuscripts.

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 3 Preaching

ink into a person’s veins? What is the author’s motivation? It may be one or more of a number of things. Sometimes it is what has been dubbed in dubious Latin itchus scri- bendi, the itch to write. Sometimes it is human vanity. Bringing Sometimes it is the love of lucre, although those it has financially en­ riched are few and far between Sometimes it is the lust for fame. the Sometimes it is God himself who thrusts a pen into a man’s hand and orders: “Write!” Why marvel at that? Nothing could be more natural. We by Ian Macpherson Word have a literary Lord. Each of the into three Persons in the Blessed Trinity ears ago, when we lived in sion of the vitalities of eternity Out London, I was walking there on the Common I sang my the alone one day across Clap- Magnificat; and ever since, my min­ ham Common when, with dramaticistry, preached and printed, has been suddenness, something happeneddifferent. Ythat radically altered my whole out­ Now when people ask me, “Do World look upon my work and introduced you find preaching and Christian au­ is related to letters. God the Father into it an entirely new dimension. thorship easy?” my stock reply is, is literary. He wrote immortal litera­ It was, as I recall, a Monday morn­ ture in nature and on the granite of ing, a “blue” Monday morning, a “About as easy as a first confinement.” Sinai. God the Son is literary. “How Monday morning when I was suf­ When I say that, I am not indulg­ has this one become a man of let­ fering from what doctors describe as ing in a rather cheap and indelicate ters, having never been educated?” “neural drain.” Brooding gloomily jest. I am in dead earnest. That is, the Jews asked in the Temple long on the apparent futility and fruit­ quite literally, what my ministry is ago. (Cf. John 7:15, NASB.) The lessness of my ministry, I was strong­ to me—a means of bringing the wonder was not that He was literate ly tempted to give it up. In the lan­ Word into the world. The wonder is but literary! guage of Hamlet to Polonius, it all that, in some mysterious manner, He One modern version of Heb. 12:2 seemed just “words, words, words.” can come by paper and ink as well reads thus: “Let us fix our eyes on And what were words? Mere puffs of as by flesh and blood. Compositors Jesus, the author and perfecter of air or black scribbles on white paper. know well what they term a matrix. our faith” (NIV). And God the Holy Better, I told myself bitterly, pack As Christian authors, it is our busi­ Spirit is spoken of as the imper­ up the pointless job and devote my ness to fill that matrix, that womb of ishable fluid in which the message energies to something practical. And the Word, with letterpress that will is inscribed: “Written not with ink, then, like a bolt from the blue, there mediate to mankind the omnipotent but with the Spirit” (2 Cor. 3:3, KJV). broke in upon me what I can only Lord. It is, of course, a mere curiosity of call a revelation. All at once, I saw Amplifying the analogy, we may language that the word “Pentecost” with startling clarity that I was not note that there are three stages in begins with “pen” and ends with simply a webster of human words, the stupendous process: (1) verbal “cost”—instrument and commit­ but a conveyor of the divine Word; pregnancy; (2) literary gestation; ment—two essentials of the writer’s not just a grinder out of grammar, and (3) publicity obstetrics. craft. Nevertheless that verbal coin­ but a communicator of the living VERBAL PREGNANCY cidence may serve to remind us that God; not a mere minder of a literary What is it that makes anybody Pentecostals—overshadowed, as loom, but a vehicle for the transmis­ want to write? What is it that puts they are, by the Holy Spirit and in­

4 THE PREACHER S MAGAZINE dwelt by the everlasting Word— me according to thy word” (Luke 1: takes preachers and writers make in ought to be the finest writers in the 38, KJV). this connection is that of confusing world. There are men who have pet the Annunciation with the Incarna­ The difficulty with authorship is themes, promotion lines, subjects of tion. “Conceived in joy, brought that so often there is a hiatus be­ which they have made themselves forth in sorrow,” says the proverb, tween the afflatus and the appara­ masters and to which they revert on and it applies here. It’s a long way tus. It is the seed of the Word alone all sorts of occasions. Nevertheless, from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Nine that can bring them together. Before that chosen theme of theirs, impor­ months is roughly 270 days. undertaking Christian ministry of tant though it may be in its place, What abortions result in preach­ any kind, whether in preaching or in may not be the message the Lord ing and in print from supposing that printing, make sure that you are ver­ wants them to deliver in some given the Annunciation is the Incarnation! bally pregnant. And for this it is of instance. It is well to look to the How many homiletical and literary no use turning to human sources of Lord for His leading. The Word hemorrhages have stemmed from inspiration. comes by His will. “Knowing this that mistake! I have myself listened When told by the angel of the sub­ first, that no prophecy of the scrip­ to and read many that reminded me lime motherhood that was to be her ture is of any private interpretation. of the story of how, in the British destiny, Mary naturally enough in­ For the prophecy came not in old Parliament, after an M.P. had deliv­ quired: “How shall this be, seeing I time by the will of man: but holy ered at great length a speech that know not a man?” (Luke 1:34, KJV). men of God spake as they were was all gush and no guts, someone Artificial insemination is altogether moved by the Holy Ghost” (2 Pet. on the opposite side of the House out of place. Inspiration must come 1:20-21, KJV). rose to remark that, quite evidently, direct from above. “The power of Has it ever occurred to you that by the Honorable Member suffered the Highest shall overshadow thee” doing the will of God, you enter in a from the same complaint as the fa­ (v. 35, KJV). That is the secret. You way into Mary’s sublime mother­ ther of Publius in the Book of Acts! may be a verbal virgin. No seed hood? Matthew records that once, as To avoid that, allow a period of ges­ thought may lie in the matrix of Jesus was talking to the people, “His tation to elapse between conception your mind. You may have no idea mother and his brethren stood with­ and delivery. what you are going to say. But as you out, desiring to speak with him. Sir Winston Churchill’s daughter, wait upon the Lord, as you attend Mary, has told us that her father took your holy calling, you will be in­ ------o ------infinite pains in preparing his death­ seminated with divine inspiration. less orations. She records that, Only, you must be holy To put it within the family, he was said on at its crudest, it is unthinkable that Jesus comes by such occasions to be “with speech” the Holy Spirit should have come as a woman is said to be “with upon a harlot. Mary was a maid. She paper and ink as child.” was as pure as the driven snow. So Here are a few hints as to how best the Christian writer finds that ink well as by flesh to spend the antenatal period. flows freest humble. Mary of Naza­ First, where possible, do most of reth was that. She was no leisured and blood your work in the open air. Never fall lady living in a palace; she was a into the folly of supposing that there j peasant girl inhabiting a smoky cav­ ------0 ------is any special merit in laboring in a ern in a smelly town. A humble lass Then one said unto him, Behold, thy stuffy study. Jesus was a man of the of a humble class, yet the Lord made mother and thy brethren stand with­ great out-of-doors. He was no pale her the mother of the Messiah. out, desiring to speak with thee. But product of the cloister. And those One day as Jesus was walking he answered and said unto him that priceless parables of His are red­ along a road in Israel, the mag­ told him, Who is my mother? and olent of the fresh air of Galilee. nificence of His manhood evoked who are my brethren? And he A minor revolution took place in from a woman in the crowd the out­ stretched forth his hand toward his my own ministry, such as it is, when burst: “Blessed is the womb that disciples, and said, Behold my it dawned on me one day that the bare thee, and the paps which thou mother and my brethren! For who­ mission of Jesus was accomplished hast sucked.” Jesus immediately re­ soever shall do the will of my Father to a very large degree in the open sponded: “Yea rather, blessed are which is in heaven, the same is my air. I started doing all my studying they that hear the word of God, and brother, and sister, and mother” outside, and I discovered not only keep it” (Luke 11:27, 28, KJV). (12:46-50, KJV). In a special man­ that my general health improved im­ To become pregnant with the ner, therefore, the Christian author measurably, but also that the clean Word, we must hear the Word of may in this sense become maternal winds blew my brain clear and facil­ God and keep it. Meditate on it. That to the Word. Impregnation is the itated the processes of thought. I is, be in the middle of it. Steep your first thing. Verbal pregnancy recommend the practice to you. soul in it. What matter whether peo­ Second, make the most of the ple call you “absentminded,” if for LITERARY GESTATION morning. If you are an author, al­ you, to be absent from the mind is “Having then . . . ministry, let us most inevitably you are an introvert. to be present with the Lord? You wait on our ministering” (Rom. Modern psychology has recently must also be submissive. “Be it unto 12:6-7, KJV). One of the major mis­ been telling us that, while the ex­

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 5 trovert is at his best in the evening, capacity, who have a message of to expect the reader to lavish like the introvert is at his best at day­ their own to deliver, had they but care on its perusal. break. “Hast thou commanded the the confidence to do so, but who are morning . . . ?” J. H. Jowett used to such shameless replicas of others And now writing inquire, quoting Job 38:12-13, KJV. that you cannot hear what they say Write epigrammatically. Not jerk­ Dr. James Denney was careful to for thinking of whom they resemble. ily and jumpily, like P. T. Forsyth, warn his students to distrust any lit­ Vary your authors. but in brief, clean-cut, telegrammic- erary work done by artificial light. ally portable sentences. Therefore, take the day by the fore­ Read viscerally Always remember that the reader lock. Make the most of “the pure, Learn, like the great lexicogra­ of a book is like someone drifting in strong hour of the morning, when pher Dr. Samuel Johnson, to “tear the sun on a raft along a slow river; the soul of the day is at its best.” the guts out of a book.” Don’t just now and then he dips a cup in the Third, soak your soul in prayer. sample it in dilettante fashion. Get water to slake his thirst, but for the According to Catholic tradition, down to it. most part he just glides on, letting Mary was on her knees when the an­ the broad flood flow by untasted. gel Gabriel visited her. He surprised ------o ------Those cupfuls are the aphorisms in her in the midst of her devotions. Steep your soul the narrative or argument. Cultivate With some demanding appointment the art of shaping them. It will well looming up on our ministerial hori­ in God s Word repay whatever labor you bestow zon, some editor pressing for copy, upon it. some publisher crying out for a ------0 ------Here are several from other pens manuscript, we are sometimes in­ There are, to be sure, different and then some from my own: “A clined to think that time spent in types of books, and if you are wise, man’s life is not measured by its du­ prayer is wasted time. Laborare est you will peruse them in different ration but by its donation” (Peter orare, we quote to ourselves. “To ways. I myself, when young, wasted Marshall). “I would rather be found work is to pray.” But we are wrong. It no end of time reading every word in Christ than lost in God” (James is in prayer that the true source of of all the books I bought. My literary Denney). “Stop wrestling and start inspiration and illumination lies. conscience would not let me slip a nestling” (Corrie ten Boom). “Live The oratory must take precedence single syllable, nor did I ever read simply that others may simply live” over the library, the place of prayer without taking copious notes. As I (anon.). grew older, however, I got wiser. I “When we abase ourselves before must have priority over the place of began to discriminate. Some books God, we never debase ourselves.” study, or the Christian author or I scanned simply for bits and pieces “Christianity is a lifelong loyalty to a preacher will become like some old —quotations, illustrations, outlines, living Lord.” “Some people have spinster midwife who knows all and so on. Where they were con­ ability but lack stability.” about gynecology without ever hav­ cerned, I merely ran my eye verti­ “A man in the thick of things is of­ ing had a baby of her own! Never for­ cally down the middle of each page, ten in the thin of thought.” “The nat­ get Alexander Maclaren’s searching spotting and transcribing anything ural must be made spiritual if it is interrogation: “Is there in your of value, and so had skimmed the not to become the carnal.” “The home a little bit of carpet worn thin work in a bare hour or two. Other Lord rarely deeply uses anyone who by your praying knees?” volumes I valued for their anatomy, loves the limelight.” “There is no And now a word as to the mechan­ their logical structure, the skill they pardon for the persistent sinner, but ics of the matter. exhibited in the organization of their there is plenteous pardon for the We begin with reading. How is materials. These I filleted as a fish­ penitent sinner.” this to be done? monger bones a haddock. Statesmen and politicians are not Read voraciously Other books—and these are the ignorant of the value of the striking No one will ever be a writer who ones that, on opening, one feels like epigram. We recall the late Chair­ is not a reader. Spurgeon read six Charles Lamb that one wants to say man Mao’s oft-quoted dictum: “Po­ books a week for years. Alexander “grace,” where every word is hand­ litical power comes out of the barrel Whyte reported in a letter to a set, where in Shelley’s expressive of a gun”; Edward Heath’s “Not by friend: “I am reading like a famished phrase, “every rift is loaded with the bullet but by the ballot will wolf.” J. Cyndylan Jones claimed to ore,” and which to alter would be peace in Ulster be attained”; John F. have read five-and-a-half tons of sacrilege—I read with patient care, Kennedy’s “Ask not what your coun­ books. Get to know the Bible most perhaps over and over again. When try can do for you—ask what you of all, but like D. L. Moody, read any it is patent that an author has taken can do for your country.” Learn from book you can lay your hands on that infinite pains to produce a piece of the political spokesmen. Write epi­ helps you understand the Bible. literature—it took Thomas Gray 17 grammatically. Read voraciously. years to write his Elegy in a Coun­ Next, w rite graphically. Some Read variously try Churchyard, and Charles Mor­ men, as Dr. Sangster said, can be Don’t study one style too much. gan spent a whole month on a single confidently counted upon to dehy­ Don’t be a mere ditto. Don’t be an paragraph in his famous book The drate any subject they tackle. About echo. He who slavishly imitates an­ Fountain—when, I say, an author one such wielder of the pen John other liquidates himself. There are bestows such labor on a literary ef­ Dryden, England’s first poet lau­ preachers and writers of considerable fort, it is surely not asking too much reate, wrote a caustic couplet:

6 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE The midwife laid her hand give the best space in his journal to science. Yet reviewers have been on his thick skull others or does he hog the headlines wrong. One thinks of the scurrilous With this prophetic blessing: and reserve the eye-catching pages scribes who blasted the verse of “Be thou dull." for himself? Is his principal concern John Keats and thus sent a young One way to avoid such dullness is to add to his own literary reputation man of Shakespearean potential to to employ what the Reader’s Digest or is his main aim to make the most his grave at 26. One thinks of Lord calls picturesque speech, colorful of his contributors? Is his paper a Jeffrey, who in the Edinburgh Re­ terminology vivid vocabulary An­ shopwindow for the display of his view excoriated the poetry of Wil­ other is to introduce metaphors and own talents or does he hold up in it liam Wordsworth, dismissing it with similes into one’s text. “Music yearn­ a mirror to the work of others? the curt comment: “This will never ing like a god in pain”; Milton’s tre­ And, incidentally however busy a mendous line “shone like a meteor redactor may be, it would be much ------o ------streaming to the wind.” A word pic­ appreciated by young, aspiring writ­ ture I came on lately of a wealthy ers if he could spare the time to ex­ You will not be sinner going “like a laden beast to plain why “The Editor regrets.” the grave” has proved to me un­ Let us be grateful to the editors, disappointed if you forgettable. Illustrations also, as especially perhaps to the lesser their very name implies, can greatly breed, the subeditors. On the whole are ignored brighten literary work. they serve us well. But for them how PUBLICITY OBSTETRICS many split infinitives, non-sequiturs, Few women ever have to bear a and redundant “thats” would find ------0 ------baby alone. Nearly always they have their way into our published work! do!” Nevertheless, reviewers are of­ the benefit of medical attendance. Second, publishers. When Harold ten right. Long before struggling au­ Doctor or midwife and nurse are Macmillan resigned from public of­ thors have achieved popular recog­ usually at hand. fice, he was asked by a television in­ nition, such reviewers detected ex­ Nor can the author contrive to terviewer if he intended issuing his ceptional qualities in their work and bring his book to birth without pro­ memoirs. With a smile, he quipped: said so. Here one remembers partic­ fessional assistance. This is the spe­ “Yes, if I can find a publisher!” As ularly Alice Meynell’s discovery of cial and specific function of what I head of one of the world’s biggest the wastrel poet Francis Thompson, have called publicity obstetrics. publishing houses, he had not far to discerning in a social derelict the “The world expects results,” re­ seek. With most of us it is otherwise. gifts of a man of genius. Sometimes marked Arnold Glasow. “Don’t tell Publishers are, through bitter ex­ one suspects that certain reviewers people about the labor pains. Show perience, wise and wary men. They do not bother to read the books they them the baby.” Editors, publishers, do not rush into print. They have too write about, but some of us will be reviewers—without such literary much at stake to risk a mistake. The eternally grateful to generous-mind­ gynecologists the author’s manu­ author is well advised, therefore, ed members of the tribe who set us scripts are likely to be stillborn. not to print at his own expense a on our literary feet. Just a brief note about each of manuscript for whose production This brings me to the last thing I them. no publisher can be persuaded to want to say When, finally, you have pay brought forth the living Word, you ------o ------You may remember Byron’s mis­ will be delighted to discover that chievous misquotation: “Now Barab- men, wise and simple, old and The author cannot bas was a publisher.” Having, in the young, royal and rural, will come, course of my literary life, had to do like the Magi of old, to bow down contrive to bring with about a round dozen of such and to offer their presents. You will gentlemen, I am sure that is a case of not be surprised or upset or disap­ his book to birth mistaken identity. I have never been pointed if you are yourself ignored. disposed to confuse a publisher Of the wise men from the East it is without assistance with Barabbas, but I confess I have recorded (Matt. 2:11, KJV): “When often been fain to confound one they were come into the house, they ------0 ------with Rip van Winkle! saw the young child with Mary his First, editors. Of editors, I, who Third, reviewers. It used to be mother, and fell down, and wor­ also am an editor, having “suffered cynically said that if a man could shipped”—whom? Her? No! Him! many things” at the hands of such write books, he would write them; The Word! It was to Him that the bookish obstetricians, and to my but, if he couldn’t write books, he Magi opened their treasures and own thinking, “was nothing bet­ would review them. Let us not, how­ proffered their gifts. And Mary— tered, but rather grew worse” (Mark ever, underestimate the power of the bless her heart—was well content 5:26, KJV), speak with deep feeling. reviewer. A reviewer can either that it should be so! Being an editor is at once a taxing make or break an author. By the gen­ Not otherwise will it be with the and a testing task. It puts a man on eral reading public a reviewer is re­ author who has truly brought the his moral mettle as much as any job garded as an expert, a literary con­ Word into the world. $ I know; that is, if he is the editor of a noisseur, possessing in his own line Originally appeared in CHRIST FOR THE NATIONS. magazine. Is he selfless enough to something little short of omni­ Reprinted by permission.

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 7 Preaching to Women

by Jill Briscoe

enerally speaking, women week, to juggle the ever-present ne­ time. Maybe you could be more are generally speaking! It’s cessities of homelife more artfully “practical” in your applications of hard for us to stop and let than on any weekday, and gear up for the truth for us. Tell us the steps someone else have a turn! But Sun­more family fights than usual. 1-2-3 to achieve the principles you day by Sunday we do stop and let theRealize we sit there trying to cor­ pray about so eloquently. Men, we preachers—generally,G a man — ral our thoughts. First of all, our understand, work in broad concepts speak to us. children didn’t want to come to in the boardroom. They debate phi­ Please make sure you arrest our at­ church with us. “The preacher losophy and work with goals. We tention, challenge our spirits, ad­ preaches too long, Mom!” We sit need you to tell us the way your ser­ dress our attitudes, and fill our souls there worrying about all this while mon can put boots on and walk into with singing. And how are you sup­ our husbands are somehow able to our kitchen, living room, bedroom, posed to do that? “Well,” you may re­ put it on one side and deal with it and office! ply, “by exegeting the Scriptures. later. And just what are our little Women are relational creatures. That is what we went to seminary to horrors doing to their Sunday School This is where we live our lives, learn.” teachers, we worry next! You can see dream our dreams, move and have Well now, while you were there, you have quite a job on your hands our being. How our ears prick up did anyone ever explain half the hu­ to chase our minds back to the when you investigate Abraham’s re­ man race to you? Most of you have Scriptures! lationship with Lot, Jacob with more of us looking at you and listen­ Many of us work outside the home Rachel, Sarah with Hagar, Mary with ing to you on a Sunday than our male as well as within it. What do you Elizabeth. Now we are at home in counterparts. Many of us run the pro­ know about our world? Hopefully your talk. Now the principals stretch gram of the church, care for the more than your sermon shows! Do out their hands, and we are cap­ children of the church, polish the you listen to us regularly as we try to tivated. You have won our hearts. woodwork of the church, sing in the explain what it’s like for a woman This is not to say women are not choir of the church, cook the pot- out there? Have you any idea what it intelligent creatures. Even though lucks for the church (in fact, the feels like, for instance, to go up for a we like you to spend some time be­ pots would have no luck at all with­ job with a man of equal merit, get ing practical for us, we aren’t afraid out us), and generally “do” the work the job, and then receive less pay for of a Greek word, a lofty phrase, a nu­ of the ministry. We need you to feed it? Let us tell you about that! ance of a verse. We’ll reach, stretch, us as thoroughly as you need us! Do you ever have a group of us risk the query at the end of a sermon To do this, you have to know women round to the parsonage and if we don’t quite know what you where we’re coming from. For exam­ just listen to us so that you can see were saying, and even read a theol­ ple, where have we been on Sunday where we are coming from? Some of ogy book if you lend us one! Don’t morning before you ever see us sit­ us love it and some of us hate it out insult us by forbearing to challenge ting in a pew? By the time we sit in the marketplace; and more and us to wrestle with a current theolog­ down, our minds are often hectic, more of us need encouragement to ical issue—but please be sensitive our spirits frantic, and our souls arc­ catch the vision of evangelism, rath­ to our feelings about it and reac­ tic. By 9 a m . we already have jour­ er than feeling added guilt about tions to it. neyed (in our minds) right through working. Women are spiritual creatures. the day. We’ve had our Sunday—this Women are practical creatures— Some of us do not share some of day of rest (the wicked and women geniuses with schedules—keeping your theological views about us. It’s being exempt from the rule). all parts of a dinner hot, dispatching hard to hear our gifts discussed from For some of us that are married, three kids or more in as many differ­ the pulpit and well nigh impossible plans have to be made to feed more ent directions at once, and feeding to divorce it from our femininity. mouths than on any other day of the them all by the next “gathering” (Continued on page 23)

8 THE PREACHER’S MAGAZINE until servanthood is forgotten. Jesus led because He had passed through the tests of life by walking where people walked. They listened to Him because of who He was and how He identified himself as a ser­ vant. There is power in being a servant. A minister is willing to suffer for the gospel’s sake. He is a peacemaker, The Call yet he proclaims the call and de­ mands of the gospel. God is never satisfied with a by Louie E. Bustle “maintenance ministry.” He plans for Quito, Ecuador us to multiply our ministry in the Kingdom. One of our responsibili­ ties is to multiply by training God- called pastors or preachers. We need to create a positive atmosphere so reaching the good news of Je­ for the gospel of God” (Rom. 1:1). that people will be sensitive to hear sus has been one of the great Paul also declared, “Woe to me if I His call. He calls whom He chooses, mysteries of God’s kingdom. do not preach the gospel!” (1 Cor. whether we think they are capable It is difficult for anyone to explain9:16). I have felt that conviction in or not. They can know that He calls adequately why and how God callsmy own ministry. The greatest privi­ by that same still, small voice by Pmen and women to proclaim the lege bestowed upon me was when which He called us. In obedience, gospel through the preaching minis­ God chose me to carry the glad tid­ people called by Him through our try. There seems to be nothing su­ ings. Preaching has become a great ministry will respond and say, “Here pernatural nor spectacular about love to me! I cannot imagine doing am I, Lord; use me.” Then we must preaching, but still there is a divine anything else. I made a deep commit­ help them develop that special min­ unity that takes place between the ment many years ago to a loving Lord istry. person who is speaking and the One who saw something in nothing. In South America I feel a great who delivers the message, es­ Whatever I have been able to do for need for more shepherds. We have pecially as preached under the Him has only been through His been using a slogan, “Each One anointing of the Holy Spirit. power. As a church leader in South Train One.” The response has been The call to preach follows no set America, it is not my position that so great that pastors are multiplying pattern. Paul on the Damascus road gives me any authority. God grants au­ their ministries at an explosive rate. received a direct, audible command, thority through anointed preaching. An explosion of church growth has calling him to the ministry of We are called to communicate. The occurred with the emphases, “Each preaching. For others, it is a slow power of words spoken under the Church Start a New Church” and awakening and a deepening con­ unction of the Holy Spirit is instru­ “Each Member Win a New Member.” viction that God is opening a door mental in moving people. Preaching When biblical principles are used, and that He has chosen to call that is powerful. Preaching proclaims God moves just as He did in the New person to the preaching ministry. the good news of Jesus. Preaching Testament. God does call whom He chooses! should always be under the unction God’s call is a call to develop the We may not feel worthy of the privi­ of the Spirit in a forceful manner ability to minister to the social and lege. We may not feel that we have and with great enthusiasm. spiritual needs of His people. To much ability. He has made great and In the Old Testament, the prophet multiply His Church, we need a vi­ wonderful preachers out of many was known as a man of God. In the sion to multiply our ministries of people who did not seem to possess New Testament, the man called to the Word. My call to preach is fresh any great talent for the preaching of preach is referred to as the herald and even greater today. The best part the gospel who carried His message to the peo­ is this: every week I am not just We must be confident that we ple. He is also known as the shep­ preaching in one assigned place, but have been called to preach. With herd. The shepherd protects and in many countries of the world that conviction, God helps each one leads his sheep. Understanding the through His “called ones” who have develop a successful ministry. He importance of preaching as well as been reached through ministry. has entrusted the gospel to us, and being a pastor to hurting people is We “called ones” must give ade­ we must fulfill His call as our re­ vital. Preaching is God’s chosen way quate leadership to make an impact sponsibility. to inspire and lead His people. on our world with the wonderful The deep conviction that Paul felt The shepherd is a servant, a ser­ message of Jesus and His transform­ becomes a reality for anyone who vant of the people as well as a ser­ ing power. I am glad to be one of knows he is called. Paul exclaimed, vant of the most high God. Some­ those called ones, that the world “Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, times we have seen the “chosen may know Jesus. Let us fulfill that called to be an apostle and set apart one” become puffed up with fame call and destiny now! $

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 9 Cultivating the Fine Art of Story Preaching by C. S. Cowles Nampa, Idaho With many similar parables Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could understand. He did not say anything to them without using a parable (Mark 4:33-34). eanna, it’s time for prayer,” I said as I tucked our little daughter into in Sheldon Vanauken’s conversion, bed one night. who authored a recent Christian best-seller, A Severe Mercy, which “But I don’t want to pray, Daddy.” tells the story of his spiritual jour­ “Why not?” I asked. ney. D“Because,” she replied. The secret is what Frederick “Well, then, I’ll pray for both of us.” Buechner calls “indirection.” That “No, Daddy, don’t pray. Tell me a story instead.” is, story preaching does not assault “What story would you like me to tell you?” us head-on with the truth, as does “David and Goliath. Tell me that story.” proclamation or exhortation. In And so, once again I did. She grew quiet. Her eyes fixed on an invisible story form, the truth sneaks up on screen just beyond the bedroom wall. She became enthralled in the great us and grabs us unawares. We are drama. After the stone from David’s sling found its mark, dropping the giant caught up in the drama, drawn into in his tracks, she was ready to pray. the story line as actors and players, Perhaps there is a sense in which none of us are really ready to pray until and buy into the inner logic of the we have heard a story—the story of God in Christ, communicated through a truth almost without being con­ thousand stories. While I have long loved stories, listened to stories, read scious of it. stories, and told stories as sermon illustrations, it has only been very recently Americans have been more di­ that I have begun to discover that stories are more than illustrative devices; vided and have shed more blood story can be a legitimate and effective means of proclamation itself! Homi- over the race issue than any other in leticians are calling this “Narrative Preaching.” the history of their country. Yet, what did more to bury this hatchet in our own time—more perhaps I. THE POWER OF STORY PREACHING than all of the marches and civil “Jay O’Callahan has revived the Two of my friends and I went back­ rights demonstrations—was the ap­ ancient art of storytelling,” an­ packing. We camped by a stream. I pearance of a story told by Alex nounced the subtitle of a Time mag­ took what was then a newly pub­ Haley in his best-seller, Roots. When azine article on June 19, 1978. Mr. lished book, The Screwtape Letters. dramatized by television, it set O’Callahan is a storyteller in resi­ I was hooked. I read and reread that records for a sustained viewing audi­ dence for the public schools in book. He wrote another story about ence that have not been broken Quincy, Framingham, and Brookline, a fanciful bus trip to heaven, The since. I too became totally en­ Mass. In this technological age Great Divorce, which makes heaven grossed in the series. I too, along where young people “have seen ev­ and hell come alive. The Chronicles with millions of others, wept un­ erything on TV,” students will actu­ o f Narnia continue to sell briskly ashamedly for joy when the slaves ally skip lunch or gym class to at­ on the secular book market, along were set free. It was widely reported tend O’Callahan’s storytelling time. with the fantasies of his friend, that at the conclusion of the final Why? Says O’Callahan, “People are J. R. R. Tolkien, the author of the episode, children ran out into the hungry for storytelling because we enormously best-selling books The streets, shouting, “They’re free! live in an age preoccupied with Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings tril­ They’re free!” technology and science” (Jensen, ogy, and The Silmarillion. Lewis and Why can’t preaching be like that? 116-17). Tolkien were but continuing a tradi­ In my effort to preach biblically, I The best-selling theologian over tion popularized two centuries ear­ have been careful to do good exe­ the last three decades is also a con­ lier by a fellow Englishman, John gesis; analyze Greek words, tenses, summate storyteller. I remember ex­ Bunyan, whose Pilgrim’s Progress and roots; extract the meaning of actly where and when I became has been second only to the Bible in the text in careful exposition; make hooked on C. S. Lewis. I was 16 years popularity since then. relevant applications; and then con­ old. A missionary’s kid in Hong Kong. C. S. Lewis was the prime catalyst clude with some sort of exhortation.

1 0 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE My people have left church—all too lover. Jesus had come to show oth­ often—informed but unmoved, en­ ers what it is like to die. Being Son lightened but uninspired. Rather of God, he watched the sparrow, than finding the release, the liberty, brittle of bone and beak, crash the freedom that Jesus offered when People are into the coarse earth. The feathers He preached the “good news” (Luke hungry for heaved as though they might rise 4:16 ff.), 1 am afraid that I have once more. Finally they shud­ loaded them down with yet an even dered, relaxed, and lay, down-soft heavier sense of obligation and storytelling in the morning. Jesus perhaps suf­ more guilt. fered one of the unrecorded tears It’s been a long time since people of Scripture, “Are not two spar­ ran out of church, crying out, rows sold for a penny? Yet not one “They’re free! They’re free!” Or, of them will fall to the ground more important, “He is risen! He is apart from the will of your Father” risen indeed!” Why not seek to learn (Matt. 10:29) (Spirit; Word, and to tell stories in such a way that peo­ People have left Story, 153). ple’s eyes are opened until they cry 3. Apostolic preaching was aloud with the man touched by church informed story preaching Jesus, “Once I was blind but now I On the Day of Pentecost, how did can see” (John 9:25, Williams). Is it but unmoved Peter preach? He told the story of possible that the storyteller’s art can Jesus, help us in preaching The Greatest a man attested to you by God with Story Ever Told? mighty works and wonders and signs which God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves II. THE IMPORTANCE OF STORY PREACHING know—this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and 1. The Bible is the world’s great­ wooden cross. Truth is incarnational foreknowledge of God, you cruci­ est compendium of illustra­ before it becomes prepositional. fied and killed by the hands of tions and stories 2. Jesus’ preaching was, in large lawless men. But God raised him In the beginning are stories: Adam measure, story preaching up, having loosed the pangs of and Eve, Cain and Abel, Enoch, Literary critics affirm that two of death, because it was not possible Noah, the tower builders, Abraham, the stories Jesus told are among the for him to be held by it. . . . This and the patriarchs. Our glimpse into greatest short stories ever written: Jesus God raised up, and of that the future is filled with mind- the parables of the prodigal son and we are all witnesses. Being there­ blowing images of the world’s end: the good Samaritan. Twenty-seven of fore exalted at the right hand of psychedelic images of the beast, the these short stories of Jesus are pre­ God, and having received from whore, the living creatures, lofty served for us in the Synoptic Gos­ the Father the promise of the Holy scenes of worship, the battle of Ar­ pels. They constituted the bulk of Spirit, he has poured out this mageddon, and the triumph of the His preaching: “With many similar which you see and hear (Acts Lamb who was slain but is alive for- parables Jesus spoke the word to 2:22-24, 32-33, RSV). evermore. The Bible is one story af­ them ... He did not say anything to Peter’s preaching was story preach­ ter another, reaching its highest them without using a parable” ing. point in the story of Jesus. (Mark 4:33-34). The best biblical preaching seeks God could have revealed himself Jesus could have delivered a care­ to “flesh out” the truth in the living, by handing down divinely dictated fully defined and well-argued dis­ dynamic, multidimensional nar­ scrolls, heavenly Ph.D. dissertations, sertation on God’s care. Instead, as rative form in which it is given. In replete with definitions, analyses, Calvin Miller so beautifully ex­ short, biblical religion is not so formulation, and carefully reasoned presses it, much prepositional as personal; not syllogisms. Rather, He chose to enter When Jesus saw a sparrow fall so much doctrinal as incarnational; into the stream of human history to the ground, something within not so much cognitive as affective. through persons. Their story be­ his heart snapped. So, it strikes me that if we desire came His story. The God of the Bi­ Was he alone at prayer the day it to be truly biblical preachers, we ble is not the god of the philos­ happened? Did our Lord . . . will preach not only the point of the ophers, nor the god of theological watch an old sparrow wing-split story but also the story itself. We abstraction. He is a God with a hu­ the Galilean air for the last illus­ will concern ourselves not only man face. He is a God who speaks tration? Now the feathers were with the “bottom line” message but with a human voice, who desires hu­ needed by the earth to make hu­ also with the narrative journey that man friendship, who entangles him­ mus. Life must give itself, spar- carries it along. Marshall McLuhan, self in the web of human relation­ row-fashion, so that the ground the philosopher of media, coined ships, who—in Christ—gets crushed into which it fell would celebrate the phrase “The medium is the mes­ in the vortex of historical events, newness. Still, the Son of God sage.” Never is that more true than in and who sheds human blood upon a knew his Father was a sparrow story.

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 11 I’ll never forget the Sunday after­ and disappointments, a story of tri­ the Lord, the God of our fathers, noon when we heard Arthur Fiedler umphs and tragedy. Their story is and the Lord heard our voice and conduct the San Francisco Philhar­ still being written. Its lines are often saw our affliction and our toil and monic Orchestra in a great outdoor blurred and its plot unclear. Often our oppression; and the Lord concert in Stern’s Grove in San Fran­ they cannot make sense out of brought us out of Egypt with a cisco. Thousands of us, sitting about what’s going on. Theirs is a story in mighty hand and an outstretched on the grass, were brought to our which the last chapter has not yet arm and with great terror and feet again and again in applause. But been written. with signs and wonders; and He then, the next day, I made the mis­ Consequently, people listen to has brought us to this place, and take of buying a San Francisco Ex­ stories, hoping against hope that in has given us this land, a land flow­ aminer and reading a music critic’s someone else’s story they will dis- ing with milk and honey (Deut. analysis of that very concert. What a 26:5-9, NASB). disappointment! It was to the full Ask a Christian, “What do you be­ experience of the concert what a lieve?” He will not answer, “I be­ stick drawing is to a Michelangelo lieve in a God who is omnipotent, fresco. omniscient, omnipresent, immuta­ Story preaching ble.” Rather, he will answer, 4. People love stories I believe in God the Father Al­ Not only children but also adults does not assault mighty, Maker of heaven and like hearing and telling stories. Cal­ earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only vin Miller writes about a Shiite Mus­ us head-on with Son, our Lord; who was conceived lim woman who lived near his by the Holy Spirit, born of the Vir­ church. Having very little in com­ truth gin Mary, suffered under Pontius mon to talk about, he worked on Pilate, was crucified, dead, and pronouncing her name correctly. buried; the third day He arose She told him that it could be angli­ again from the dead; He ascended cized as Scheherazade. into heaven, and sitteth at the Her name came alive. Scheher­ cover some clues that will help right hand of God the Father Al­ azade is the name of a fabled har­ them unravel their own story. They mighty; from thence He shall em princess whose sultan every strain to see a light that will illu­ come to judge the living and the morning executed his latest one- minate what’s going on with them. dead (Apostles’ Creed). night stand. Not Scheherazade! At They hunger to find some assurance The story of God in Christ is the the end of her one-night stand, that their story is going to have a tri­ very glue that binds us together in she told the sultan a fascinating umphant ending. the Body of Christ. Christians for tale. Like an old Baghdad rerun of 5. Stories build community centuries have found community in “As the Muslim World Turns,” Ask a Hebrew, “What do you be- repeating together the Apostles’ however, she stopped her tanta­ Creed, which gains its power— lizing episode with “To be con­ unlike the Chalcedonian Creed—in tinued.” Even though the sultan that it is spelled out in story form. wanted to get on with morning- Doctrines divide, stories unite. The after executions, he couldn’t closer we move to the great biblical stand to kill her, not knowing how Stories give us story of salvation history, which cul­ her story ended. His need to know minates in the story of Jesus, the prevailed over his need for sexual self-identity and closer we come to each other. conquests. For once . . . story con­ I have discovered that this prin­ quered eros, and Scheherazade bind us to each ciple holds true in the congrega­ lived to tell the story, or rather a tions where I have preached. It is thousand stories. Naturally the other hard to imagine a more disparate sheik kept her. He was mad about crowd than the one gathered in stories. So are we all. Our pulpit church on any given Lord’s day. They stories should be as captivating as range from infant to aged, from Scheherazade’s (pp. 141-42). biblically illiterate to the scriptural At a large church in California lieve?” He would not answer, “I be­ Ph.D., from welfare recipient to where I preached recently, a dele­ lieve that God is One, that He is chief executive officer, from arch­ gation of people intercepted me fol­ holy and just.” Rather he would an­ conservative to skeptical liberal, lowing Sunday School to ask if I swer, from emotional cripples to health would tell the story about Craig, the My father was a wandering Ara- club fanatics, from sinner to saint. big bearded hippie. They heard me mean, and he went down to Egypt And then I see what happens when I tell it a couple of years earlier at a and sojourned there, few in num­ tell a story. They who are many be­ district laymen’s retreat and wanted ber; but there he became a great, come one in their laughter, one in to hear it again! mighty and populous nation. And their tears, one in their identifica­ People love stories because their the Egyptians treated us harshly tion with the subjects in the story. It life is a story—a story of awakening and afflicted us, and imposed is incredible how one man’s story and disillusionment, a story of hopes hard labor on us. Then we cried to becomes every man’s story.

1 2 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE Stories locate us in the human however, he found his year-old saved by the literal shedding of condition, give us self-identity, and son alive and surprisingly strong. blood, had in turn poured out her bind us to each other. Stories create, He checked his wife’s arm and saw life’s blood in order that their son build, and nourish community. And where the veins had been opened. might live (pp. 84 ff.). so we tell the old, old story, over and She, whose own life had been In anticipating the Christ yet to over again, in a multiplicity of dif­ come, Isaiah the prophet wrote, “He ferent ways. We strive to make “the Himself bore the sin of many, and in­ old story” come alive in fresh ways terceded for the transgressors. . . . and by telling it through the me­ Involvement is He poured out Himself to death” dium of many new stories. (53:12, NASB). 6. Stories rivet truth to the mind one of the That was the story. I had totally and heart in a timeless way forgotten about it. Yet it lingered in I received a long-distance call foremost aims of a student’s mind across these half from a former student, now an asso­ dozen years. And now, through his ciate pastor in Washington State. He story preaching preaching, the story continues to remembered a story I told in class live and proclaim its profound truth. six or seven years before and asked if I could find it and send it to him. He described it well enough that I III. WHAT KIND OF STORIES DO WE TELL? knew exactly where to go. It was in Farley Mowat’s book of short stories There are five basic types of ser- tion of John begins with the first about the Yukon titled The Snow monic stories we ought to tell. person, “On the Lord’s Day I was in Walker. Mowat is Canada’s most pro­ 1. Tell our story the Spirit” (1:10). Again and again lific writer of the far north, author Wait a minute; didn’t Paul say, “We the prophets testified, “I saw the of the best-selling book and movie do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Lord.” “The Lord came to me and Never Cry Wolf. Here is his story Christ as Lord”? (2 Cor. 4:5). Isn’t it said . . .” “The Lord spoke to me.” that my student remembered and re­ unseemly, even arrogant for the And, as in Hosea’s case, his whole quested. preacher to lift himself up as the life—especially his heartbreaking Ano came upon a snow house, subject of an illustration? relationship to Gomer—became a nearly buried under a terrible Not necessarily. Paul also told his parable, the very content of his mes­ winter’s night blizzard. He dug converts, “Follow me as I follow the sage. down through the roof only to Lord. Imitate me as I imitate Christ” Walter Wangerin puts it bluntly: find it a tomb, filled with Indians (see 1 Cor. 11:1). Three times in the Tell stories, ye preachers of who had starved to death. He was Book of Acts the story of Paul’s con­ God. Humble yourselves to make about to crawl back out the hole version is told, twice coming from of yourselves a parable. Because when he noticed some rotting his own lips. When his gospel is when you do that, you invite, as hides move. Incredibly, a little girl challenged in Galatia, he asserts that well, the wholeness of the hear­ emerged. Skin hanging on deli­ he learned it not from men but re­ ers. Then not only their analytic cate bones, only her eyes were ceived it by revelation from the minds, but their laughter shall be alive. Though Ano was young, he Lord. His own aggrieved experience in the pew; and by laughter, their knew what he must do. He cut a underlies his Corinthian correspon­ lungs and their consternation; vein in his arm, let the blood run dence. He apologizes for his boast­ their bodies, their sympathy, their into a bowl, and fed it to her a fulness, but he boasts anyway. On emotions, their distress, their in­ drop at a time. She was far too more than one occasion he speaks of adequacy, their male and female­ weak to chew, much less digest the gospel as “my gospel.” ness, their parenthood—their ex­ solid food. He kept this up for five The final court of appeals is the perience! You will be inviting days until she was strong enough first-person witness, whether it be them as people relationship, and to travel. She recovered, grew, and in the realm of history, or of science, so, love. And then— if it is in such blossomed into a beautiful teen­ or of the courts. Jesus not only spoke a relationship that God takes up ager. Ano fell in love with her and the truth but also said, “I am the his dwelling—he dwells in the took her to be his bride. truth” (see John 14:6). The Revela- wholeness of the people’s histor­ Several years later, his people ies. His temple is their experience suffered a terrible famine because (Ragman, 77). the Caribou did not migrate by The first-person story is interest­ their usual routes. Ano’s people ing. People are supremely interested began to perish. He left his family in people. And, since you and I are on a desperate search for food. He Stories are more persons, people are curious about found some coastal tribesmen that than illustrative us—especially about how God’s loaded his sled with seal meat. story is being written in the story of But by the time he returned, more devices our lives. As we discern the finger of had perished including his young God writing His story in our story, wife. Wrapped up with her body people begin to see God writing His on the ledge in their snow house, story in their stories.

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 13 The earliest apostles made no of what people in the pew know reigning, most popular, most cre­ claim to personal authority. Yet they about the Bible is not gleaned from ative, and most innovative of Roman did affirm, without apology, “We their own study but from listening Caesars, worshiped in his own time cannot help speaking about what we to Bible stories told in Sunday by an adoring populace, but also he have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). School and through sermons. So, was the exact antithesis of Jesus. Out But that was enough to launch the let’s put our bucket into that well in of this study came a sermon, “Caesar greatest spiritual revolution in hu­ every sermon. We can generally find or Christ?” It fell naturally into two man history. People are interested in a biblical illustration to illuminate points: first, “Caesar Represents the what you and I have seen and heard! just about any kind of point we need Best That This World Has to Offer.” Two quick cautions: first, Paul to make, for the Bible is an inex­ Second, “Christ Represents the Best said he could have boasted in his haustible library of stories. That God Has to Offer.” Under the strengths, but he didn’t. He boasted Some biblical stories are so graph­ second point I spun out a whole se­ rather in his sufferings, his persecu­ ic and pointed that they need little ries of comparisons, contrasting Cae­ tions, his disappointments, his fail­ or no elaboration. Joseph and his sar’s worldly greatness with Christ’s ures, his weaknesses, “that the brothers, David and Goliath, and Eli­ divine lowliness. I concluded in this power of Christ may dwell in me” jah on Mount Carmel fall into this way: (2 Cor. 12:9, NASB). We must be category. Others invite personifica­ Two thousand years ago, the careful to avoid spiritual strutting. tion: that is, they come to life when story of Jesus was but an obscure, We may speak of others’ strengths in we become one of the actors or nar­ tiny, insignificant footnote in the illustrating sermons, but it is best to rate it as if we were there in person. reign of Caesar Augustus. Today speak of our follies, our failures, our I can still remember, after 30 years, the reign of Caesar Augustus is disappointments. People identify far a preacher keeping me spellbound but an obscure, tiny, insignificant more easily with our weakness than by using the simple device of read­ footnote in the story of Jesus. Af­ with our strength, more readily with ing a letter from the apostle Paul as ter whom will you pattern your our tears than our joy, more deeply if it were addressed to our church. I life: Caesar or Christ? with our failures than our successes. can remember another, decades af­ Happy is the preacher who sees Second, we ought not to overdo ter the telling, that began this way: history as an incredibly rich and the first person singular. A pinch of “I was walking down the road one nearly inexhaustible reservoir of les­ salt flavors a steak, but a pound will day when I came upon a big hunk of sons to be learned, illustrations to kill! Confessional preaching has a man—it was Peter, Simon Peter, be used, and stories to be told. Great great power if done sparingly. If we and he was weeping.” And then the preachers, past and present, have let it all “hang out” too often and preacher went on to describe an been adept at harnessing illustra­ too explicitly, we lose that sense of imaginary conversation he had with tions from the momentous events mystery that keeps people intrigued Peter following his denial and his and great personages of history— about us. breakfast meeting with the risen especially the lives of the saints. 2. Tell His story Christ beside the seashore. The story of Jesus is of continuing Still other biblical stories lend interest to people. The Gospels pro­ themselves to contemporizing: that vide us with a rich lode of gold­ is, with only minor modifications laden ore from which to mine any we can make them walk and live in number of illustrations. If the com­ the 20th century. Jesus’ parables of The Bible is mon people heard Jesus gladly be­ the prodigal son, the good Samar­ cause He never spoke to them with­ itan, the rich fool, and the rich man one story out lacing His teaching with par­ and Lazarus (i.e., a wealthy farmer ables, then our people will hear us and a migrant worker) can be easily after another gladly when we fill our sermons and effectively translated into con­ with His stories, His miraculous temporary characters. birth, His mighty works, His saving 4. Tell historical stories acts, His relationships, His example, I was preparing a series of Advent 5. Tell contemporary stories His death, His resurrection, His ap­ sermons leading up to Christmas When we say, “This week I read,” pearances to His own, His ascension, Sunday when I noticed a passing ref­ or “Yesterday I saw,” or “This morn­ and His coming again. erence to Caesar Augustus in Luke ing before Sunday School ...” we 3. Tell Bible stories 2:1. I confess that I knew little about can be sure that all ears will stand to The Bible is a story book. It pro­ Caesar Augustus. Since he was impor­ attention. People are incredibly in­ claims the story of God’s saving acts tant enough to be mentioned by Luke, terested in what’s going on, here and told through the stories of His peo­ I thought that I had better find out now, with people and events. Look ple. If we learn to tell Bible stories something about him. I spent a fasci­ at how they devour newspapers, with imagination, humor, and pa­ nating morning in a local college li­ magazines, television, drama, mov­ thos, we will always have somebody brary digging up Caesar Augustus ies. I don’t recall my youngest daugh­ listening. Using the Bible as our from the tombs of encyclopedias and ter, Deanna, ever fighting me over principal illustrative resource has compendiums of world history. who was going to read the Bible, but the added benefit of adding to our Much to my surprise, I discovered she would plot and plan to get her people’s biblical knowledge. Most that not only was he the longest- hands on my Time magazine before

14 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE me. And what section did she always King David with his sin, when he turn to first? The People’s depart­ spun a tale about a rich farmer who ment. From her elementary school coveted and stole a poor farmer’s days, she has had an incredible hun­ lone sheep. That is what Jesus did in ger to know about people. So when creating His parables. That is what Stories Jesus we seize some contemporary person the great storytellers have done from or event and baptize it to illuminate Homer to Garrison Keillor. “Once told are among the truth of God, few in the pew upon a time . . .” gathers attention, will continue in a comatose condi­ quickens the imagination, and be­ the greatest tion. Like a bee constantly in search come a pliable vehicle for commu­ of honey, we need to be looking for nicating truth. “It’s been a quiet short stories contemporary illustrative material. week in Lake Wobegon . . is an in­ 6. Create stories vitation to experience a myth that ever written That is what Nathan the prophet becomes, nevertheless, more real to did so effectively, in confronting us than yesterday’s newspaper.

IV. CHARACTERISTICS OF STORY PREACHING 1. In story preaching, the nar­ Metaphors of participation, how­ thunderbolts of gospel imperatives rative form is preserved ever, are different in that the point at the passive listener: the listener We resist the urge to take the exe- really cannot be made apart from himself says, “Aha! I may, I can, I getical ax and begin to chop the the story. How was Jesus to answer ought, I should, I must, I will!” story to pieces in our effort to ex­ the scribe’s question “Who is my 4. Story preaching makes its tract the truth and then recast it in neighbor?” Give him a dissertation point indirectly the form of a prepositional state­ on neighbors as opposed to family, Emily Dickinson said, “Tell all the ment that can be proclaimed or as opposed to foreigners, as opposed truth, but tell it [at a] slant.” Indi­ taught. Richard Jensen protests: to strangers, as opposed to enemies? rection means that, through story, The biblical writers very often Have you noticed, in reading the the truth sneaks up and catches the communicate with us through story of Jesus’ trial and crucifixion hearer by surprise. The truth is stories. Why should we de-story in the Gospels, that the evangelists veiled, quiet, reticent, like a shy these stories in our sermons and steadfastly resist interpreting the young bride about to be given away simply pass on the point of the event, drawing conclusions, making in marriage who, nevertheless, story to our listeners? Why should the point? There is no theology of draws all eyes to herself. the Atonement, either expressed or Kierkegaard maintains that what is implied, in the Passion-Cross nar­ lacking among Christians is not in­ ratives. The Gospel writers intu­ formation, but the desire and capac­ itively understood that the story of ity to assimilate that information. riot the god Christ’s passion and death is the The ingestion and digestion of bibli­ preaching itself! It needed no ex­ cal truth can happen better by indi­ of philosophers tensive elaboration or explanation. rection than direction. To use the vi­ but a God with 3. The aim of story preaching is tamin analogy, we can pop vitamins, to involve the listener in the but it is so much more satisfying to a human face gospel story bite into a Yakima Red Delicious! A good story draws the listeners in Too much of our exegesis and ex­ with the storyteller. We know how position has been like synthesizing involved we can get in stories. We vitamins from the meat of God’s we rip the content out of the form laugh. We cry. We hope. We wonder. Word. Our people hunger for the as our normal homiletical pro­ And we get caught up in the plot cess? If the story ... is of no mat­ and work with the storyteller toward taste of meat itself, the full, rich fla­ ter why didn’t the biblical writer the resolution of the problem. Per­ vor of the Yakima Red Delicious. just tell us the point in the first haps the storyteller may do what 5. Good story preaching is open- place? ( Telling the Story, 128). Jesus did. He allowed the scribe to ended 2. In story preaching, the story discover on his own the point of the Story preaching can be done in is the preaching itself parable of the good Samaritan. such a way that we don’t have to fin­ This is not using stories to illus­ Involvement is one of the fore­ ish off our stories with, “The mean­ trate a point already made, but mak­ most aims of story preaching. The ing is . . .” If we stop short of adding ing the point with the story. Stories hearer identifies with either the vic­ an explanatory footnote, we have are extended metaphors. There are tim or the hero and supplies his own left our sermon open-ended. We metaphors of illustration and ending. The application thus made have allowed the hearer to make his metaphors of participation. Most of is very personal, his own. And that is own application and custom-make it the stories we tell in sermons are the beauty and power of story preach­ for his particular situation and need. metaphors of illustration. ing. It is not the preacher hurling Or, better still, the Holy Spirit is

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 15 given maximum freedom to make saved]?” (Acts 2:37, JB). Paul tells His point through the story. the marvelous story of his conver­ 6. In story preaching faith is sion on the Damascus road, and King evoked Agrippa cries out, “Do you think People are Preaching and faith have every­ that in such a short time you can thing to do with each other. “Faith persuade me to be a Christian?” (26: supremely cometh by hearing, and hearing by 28). In a story I see myself: my the word of God . . . which we needs, my hurts, my sin. And in the interested in preach” (Rom. 10:17, 8, KJV). Peter story of Jesus I see the answer, and I tells the story of the cross, resurrec­ respond—not to propositional truths people tion, and exaltation of Jesus on the but to a person! A person whose story Day of Pentecost, and the hearers I can identify with, whose story I can cry out, “What must we do [to be by faith make my own!

V. HOW DO WE CULTIVATE THE STORYTELLING ART? gospel. So we seek for stories not tell us that a couple of Jews passed only within the Bible but also be­ by the man who lay beaten up be­ yond that, like the Psalmist’s heav­ side the road. It was vital to the ens, “declare the glory of God” point He was making that He tell us Don't overdo (19:1). one was a priest and the other a 2. Stories must have an ending Levite. Especially important to the the first Again, like a good sermon, they story was that He identified the hero must come to a clear, decisive con­ as an antihero, a Samaritan. person clusion—a conclusion that either Second, in developing a story makes the point or implies the plot, it is necessary to upset the singular point. “There is something in us that equilibrium. In the parable of the resents the unfinished symphonies good Samaritan, a pilgrim is set of life,” says Calvin Miller. “We want upon by robbers and beaten up. stories (and certainly sermons) to That grabs our attention. We are end with recognizable conclusions jolted out of our complacency. We I have been recently reading such of hope.” are alarmed. We are set on edge. We books as Eugene Lowrie’s Homi- The Resurrection shouts out, are drawn into the story because letical Plot, Richard Jensen’s Telling “Free at last!” There is hope! There we know that at any time and any the Story, Patricia Wilson-Kastner’s is purpose! There is everlasting life. place—even when we are leaving Imagery for Preaching, Robert The story of salvation history begun church minding our own business Young’s Religious Imagination, and in Genesis is concluded in Revela­ —we too might be set upon by rob­ Calvin Miller’s Spirit, Word, and tion. We can live happily ever after bers, by rip-off artists, by false ac­ Story. I have gleaned some ideas because of that story! cusers who will strip us of our jobs, that are helping me in my quest to our careers, our reputations, our fi­ cultivate the storytelling art. 3. Stories must have a plot nancial security, and even our 1. Stories must have a point In narrative or story preaching, health. Stories must say something. They what is important is not clearly Third, we must analyze the dis­ must relate to, speak about, and illu­ identifiable points, but a sense of crepancy. When we think things are minate some aspect of the human progress. At least six movements can about as bad as they can get, they drama. Like a good sermon, they be identified that characterize a get worse. Two religious profession­ must say one thing! Like a good good story plot. als, whom we would expect to turn painting, they must create a single First, it is important to set the aside and offer assistance to the picture. Story lines may develop all scene and identify the major play­ man, instead turn away and pass on. sorts of subplots and offer all sorts ers. It was not enough for Jesus to At this point in the story we find of interesting insights, but even ourselves chasing after false clues, these are relevant only as they con­ being thrown off the track. The plot tribute to the main plot. Jesus’ para­ thickens. We are caught up in the bles, like a surgeon’s scalpel, were drama’s web and find ourselves dis­ told to open up the truth: truth The Bible is an appointed, even angry with the un­ about God, truth about the King­ feeling priest and Levite. And we are dom, truth about human nature in inexhaustible also becoming more involved with all of its highs and lows, truth about the poor pilgrim bleeding to death. ultimate destiny. library of stories Will he be rescued or will he simply Likewise, our stories must have a perish because of neglect? point—not just any old point, but a Fourth, when the tension becomes point that explicates the truth of the I almost unbearable, then the good

1 6 THE PREACHERS MAGAZINE storyteller discloses the clue to res­ these stories hint at another story yet I had scarcely read a page, how­ olution. Enter the Samaritan. Even to be told that will have a happy ever, until he captured me with a before Jesus tells us, we anticipate ending. Catastrophe stories leave the story. Soon I was chuckling. Then that things are going to be different. hearer with the feeling that this is laughing. And then weeping. And Rescue is on the way. The beaten “To Be Continued” and resolved at then pondering, reflecting. And pilgrim may be yet saved. Hope sud­ another time. then soaring up into heavenly places denly breaks through. Peter is not So, when we preach on the Cross, in Christ Jesus! Inside of that old condemned to sit forever at the gate, and thus end the story with catastro­ body lived a clear, sharp mind, a weeping because of his denial. The phe, we must conclude in such a keen wit, and the accumulated wis­ prodigal is not doomed to the pig­ way as to anticipate its resolution on dom and experience of an illustri­ pen forever. There is anticipation of Easter Sunday when we shout, “Eu­ ous lifetime of preaching. In addi­ healing, of forgiveness, of reconcili­ reka! Christ is risen!” tion to his other gifts he was a ation, of life. Conclusion master storyteller. I never did get Fifth is the growing anticipation In my fourth year as pastor after past that first page as that dynamic of resolution. Unlike the priest and seminary, the hard realities of minis­ old preacher began to play upon my the Levite, the Samaritan does not try had begun to set in. Most of my spirit like a concertmaster plays his pass by. He stops. He takes pity upon idealistic expectations were being violin. the bleeding and broken man. He thoroughly crushed. Especially dis­ Especially do I remember the “bandaged his wounds, pouring on enchanted had I become regarding vivid way he described Ezekiel in oil and wine” (Luke 10:34). The preaching. Did anyone hear anything the valley of dry bones. When the plot begins to build energy as it I had said? Did they remember past Lord asked Ezekiel, “Can these moves toward its anticipated climax. the parking lot? Was my preaching bones live?” (37:3), I found myself Finally comes the gospel message. making a difference with anyone? likewise crying out in desperation, The Samaritan picks up the poor vic­ For the first time in my life I was be­ “O God, can these sterile bones of tim, takes him to an inn, cleans him ginning to have serious doubts as to my preaching live?” As Chappell be­ up, tends to his wounds, and makes whether I had the gifts or was even gan to describe the miracle that took full provision for his recovery. Good called to preach. place in Ezekiel’s vision, I too began news! The question that prompted to see a miracle taking place in my the parable in the first place: “Who is ministry. I sensed the mighty Spirit my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29), has be­ of God breathing new life into my come rhetorical. The point is obvious. call and new promise into my minis­ In telling stories when the point "Once upon try. is as obvious as in this one, let us re­ As he tottered back to his chair, sist the urge to amplify. Elaboration a time .. there was not a sound in that audito­ diminishes the dramatic impact of rium. No one moved. Then someone the story. Let us learn from Jesus: He gathers attention, finally broke the spell with a barely concludes the story by a pungent re­ audible but deeply heartfelt, stating of the original question: quickens the “Amen!” The next thing I knew, we “Which of these three do you think were on our feet applauding. And so was a neighbor to the man who fell imagination it went for all five sessions. into the hands of robbers?” (Luke As I was driving up the California 10:36). What can the scribe say? coast to my church, with the back­ drop of a setting sun lighting the wa­ While in this forlorn frame of mind ters of the Pacific Ocean on fire, a I found myself, somewhat unwilling­ fire was burning in my breast. As I ly, attending a pastors’ conclave at lived and relived the preached Word Pasadena College (now Point Loma from the last three days, I could Happy is the Nazarene College). Dr. Clovis Chap­ scarcely see the road for the tears pell, famed Methodist pastor and au­ filling my eyes. On Highway 101, in preacher who thor, was the featured speaker. I the spring of 1964, I made a new wasn’t too thrilled about that since I covenant with God. I promised Him sees history as a guessed—rightly—that he had to be that if He would enable me, He in his mid or late 80s. Sure enough, would have a preacher on His hands rich reservoir when he tottered onto the platform, until the day I died. I can testify face wrinkled, thin hair a wispy gray, with Paul, “I was not disobedient to of stories owllike eyes staring at us like those the heavenly vision” (Acts 26:19, of old folk in rest homes, I knew RSV). that it was going to be a long hour. Whatever God has been pleased to When he began to speak, his grav­ do in and through my ministry since, Some stories will make their im­ elly voice and slurred, mumbled I owe much to an old preacher who pact simply because they end with speech sent me into my portfolio for caught my attention, riveted my mind, catastrophe, leaving an ache in our the new book I had purchased and thrilled my soul, impacted my will—a heart and a tear in our eye. Yet even brought with me just in case. storyteller par excellence! $

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 17 The Christian Use ot Humor by Montford Lee Neal Bristow, Okla.

ecently while flying from easy to relate—difficult truths or logical Seminary Professor of New Oklahoma City to Lexing­ truthful but painful facts about a sit­ Testament, in teaching about Mark’s ton, Ky., an article from Sky uation or thing. Caution should be oral tradition and the feeding of the titled “Just Joking,” by psychologistused in every case to keep humor 5,000, emphasized one word. RPerry Buffington, captured “Christian”my and not use it as a put- “This is a remote place,” [the thoughts concerning how Christians down of persons or personalities, to disciples] said, “and it’s already can use humor successfully; for create uncomfortable or unpleasant very late. Send the people away so “teasing, or kidding around, can be feelings about certain issues. Re­ they can go to the surrounding an effective way of reducing anxiety lating the message that is conducive countryside and villages and buy and building relationships.” How to Christian fellowship and ethics is themselves something to eat.” can Christians creatively use humor essential to all Christian communi­ But [Jesus] answered, “You give for the kingdom of God? cation. them something to eat” (Mark Traditionally many Christians The abuse of humor in religious 6.35-36). have poured scorn on any trivial talk circles has inhibited those who I chuckled aloud as I thought how or “foolish . . . jesting” (Eph. 5:4, would normally use humor cre­ shocked Andrew, Philip, Peter, and KJV)— and for good reason! How­ atively. Elton Trueblood’s book The the others must have felt when the ever, “A cheerful heart is good medi­ Humor of Christ points clearly to weight of the responsibility hit them cine” (Prov. 17:22). Humor has a the words of Christ embodied in the of feeding a huge crowd with two rightful place in the work of God Gospels and His usage of humor. fish and five loaves. and the building of His kingdom. Christ employed humor for the John W. Drakeford, professor of Creative humor can lift the audience sake of truth and many of His psychology and counseling at South­ to new expectations, excite the teachings, when seen in this light, western Baptist Theological Semi­ class for better discussion, relieve become brilliantly clear for the nary, has authored a book for minis­ the tense board or business meeting, first time. Irony, satire, paradox, ters, Humor in Preaching. He stress­ and make things go much better. even laughter itself help clarify es that humor is not inherently un­ To experience a good reason to Christ’s famous parables, His brief spiritual and can serve the minister laugh is healthy, gives the individual sayings, and important events in well as he makes positive “Chris­ a sense of worth, makes the work His life. tian” use of humor. People need to easier, allows for individual freedom An example of Jesus’ humor struck have pleasant memories. May the of expression, and serves as a source me during seminary days when Dr. ministers of today’s pulpits capital­ of renewal for more and creative Thomas Boomershine, United Theo­ ize on one of the amazing gifts of work. Humor can be the necessary God—create an atmosphere where ingredient to introduce a new idea, Christian truth can be presented gather support for the agenda, or get with a taste of wholesome humor the attention of the audience for the now and then! $ message or lecture. Rightly placed humor that is up­ References lifting and positive can be helpful in John W. Drakeford, Humor in Preaching (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1986), back cover remarks. getting the point of a lesson or mes­ Sky (Delta Airlines) 17, No. 5 (May 1988): 78. sage across. Humor can help an indi­ Elton Trueblood, The Humor of Christ (Harper vidual say things that are not always and Row Publishers, 1964), back cover remarks.

1 8 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE The Power of Preaching by L. Milton Hankins few weeks ago, after 26 Dear Pastor, Mineral, Va. years in ministry, I received Your sermon on forgiveness last an astonishing letter in my Sunday morning was an answer to morning mail. Astonishing becausethe prayer I had been praying a it proved something I had believedlong time. I know the Lord led wasA true but never had opportunity you to preach it on that day be­ to confirm in all my years of preach­ cause earlier or later would ing. probably not have helped my hus­ All preachers who sincerely be­ band. lieve themselves called to preach With beautiful, painstaking prose, the Word, who diligently look to my correspondent went on to relate God for guidance in preparation and a series of circumstances that had delivery of sermons, and who faith­ bitterly alienated her husband and fully consider their personal inade­ her son-in-law for more than two quacies will periodically question years. Her husband, who regularly whether God, in choosing preach­ attends worship with her, had ers, has chosen the appropriate me­ “turned into a creature consumed dium for His message. with hate,” she wrote. As a result, he From time to time I have even at­ refused to have anything at all to do tempted to measure the effec­ with the son-in-law. He had even de­ tiveness of my preaching. I have oc­ nied her the privilege of attending casionally asked the Sunday evening her grandson’s graduation, which congregation to name the title, text, was to take place the following or even the general theme of my weekend. morning message, only to face blank Then she wrote: stares. A dear old deacon once After hearing your sermon, he looked up at me quizzically, missing agreed to go to the graduation. He the point, and responded, “Well, knew he was wrong to hold that Pastor, if you can’t remember, how hate. in the world should I?” We went to the graduation and Perhaps 1 had missed the point! ... it went off very well. . . . Obviously there is something of Praise the Lord for using you to much greater importance about a straighten [husband’s name] out. sermon. Remembering its title or Your sister in Christ. text feeds the preacher’s ego, but it No worthwhile purpose is served does not feed the hearer’s soul. What by sharing my ecstasy, except to say is of utmost importance about a ser­ that it was considerable. In its after­ mon is, simply, whether or not it glow, I realized that sharing the affir­ touched someone’s heart, inspired mation of the power of preaching him, or instructed him. More impor­ could be especially rewarding. Shar­ tant still—whether it effectually al­ ing it expands greatly its potential tered the life of a single hearer! for encouragement. Whether or not We preachers rely on the biblical anyone else ever remembers the title assurance: or the text of the sermon I delivered So shall My word be which goes on that particular Sunday morning, forth from My mouth; it shall not two lives—and hopefully more— return to Me empty, without ac­ were irrevocably changed for the complishing what I desire, and better. Probably no one else in my without succeeding in the matter congregation will ever know. It for which I sent it (Isa. 55:11, should be that way; it was not my NASB). doing. It was God’s doing. The assurance of these words is He is constantly changing lives sufficient, of course. But what a through our preaching—even if no­ blessing for a preacher to open his body ever takes the time to tell us mail and read: about it. $

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 19 t Blackwood's Prime t Pointers for Preachers by Leslie Conrad, Jr.

The late Andrew W. Blackwood, Sr., former professor of practical theology at Princeton Theological Seminary and Tem­ ple University and contributing editor of "Christianity Today,” was my favorite professor-friend. It was my privilege to take no fewer than 15 of his graduate-school courses— which may he some sort of a student record. Our conversations and correspondence through the years dealt with everything from pussy willows to politics— but mostly preaching. During class periods I kept voluminous notes that included many of Dr. Blackwood's off-the-cuff remarks, most of which are not found in his writings. The following article is a compilation of Blackwood quotes, gathered from correspondence and class notes and presented as if he himself had written the manuscript for publication.

reaching. Preaching is God’s summarized this way: (1) Preach The most important sentence in favorite way of transmitting what you understand. (2) Preach the sermon is the first one. The most power. Preaching is commu­ only what you believe. (3) Dare to impressive part of the sermon, be­ nication on fire. And it is a lot better be simple, but not childish—give sides its text, is the conclusion. A to make a rhetorical slip now and solid substance in the simple form. good conclusion does not include a then than to hand out ice cubes Sun­ (4) Plan each paragraph carefully. summary; a summary looks back, day after Sunday. (5) Rely on repetition. (6) Stress and you don’t look back in a conclu­ Proclaim the positive Word of persons—one at a time—rather sion. If you want to spoil a good ser­ God! Christ is the living Word of than abstractions. (7) Give prefer­ mon, summarize! The last sentence God. The Bible is the written Word ence to persons in action. (8) Bring in your sermon might well be either of God. Preaching is the spoken out tension—the good versus the a restatement of the text or a re­ Word of God. bad. (9) Use “live” words and “fact” phrasing of the text in your own There is too much negation in words that appeal to the ear and the words. present-day preaching. There may eye. (10) Make the most of your m The Master Preachers. I am a be someone in your audience, lis­ imagination. great admirer of the master preach­ tening to you, who will never hear I strongly recommend that every ers. I am convinced that a minister you again; don’t let him leave having preacher prepare one or more pub­ can learn more in five minutes from heard nothing but negations from lishable manuscripts every 21 days, a sermon of a master preacher than your pulpit. There is not a single or at least prepare a piece as if he from an entire book of sermons by a pessimistic note anywhere in the were going to publish it. And I am minister who has not yet proved New Testament after the Resurrec­ not against his submitting it to the himself. Greatness in preaching is tion. Why should there be any pulpit proper magazine for publication. measured by the effectiveness that pessimism today, anywhere, by any The more the minister writes well, continues long after the preacher preacher of Christ’s good news? The the better his preaching becomes; has ceased to preach. pulpit is no place for apologies. the more he writes carelessly, the Living with the sermons of the Don’t ever say, “Perhaps,” or “I worse it gets! great preachers is time well spent. think,” when you are preaching. The The Sermon. A good sermon That is what John Henry Jowett did. preacher ought to make his pulpit should be as exciting as a baseball He lived with one great preacher at pronouncements authoritative. game. Most sermons are dull, dull, a time, and then went so far as to I have probably read more ser­ dull. To make the most of preaching, “try the master’s method” in his own mons of undergraduates and gradu­ get hold of a few big ideas and drive pulpit. ates than any other seminary pro­ them home. Choose your subjects Frederick W. Robertson was the fessor in the United States. I have carefully. I wouldn’t dare preach on most influential preacher in the last discovered that 9 out of 10 preach any subject that I hadn’t thought 100 years. His influence was due to in the past tense. They learned this through for more than a week. Start his unique way of preaching from unfortunate feature from the older off right by putting religion in your the Bible. He was a master at preach­ preachers in today’s pulpits. Always sermon topic: this will be proof that ing either doctrine or duty. Rob­ preach in the present tense. it is a sermon topic. ertson was my type of pulpit master, A minister’s pulpit work could One text for a sermon, and a short because he was a hearer-minded well be divided three ways: 30 per­ one at that, is sufficient. Parish­ preacher. cent from the Old Testament, 40 ioners are already confused enough. Charles H. Spurgeon was the most percent from the Gospels, and 30 When a preacher uses more than useful pastoral evangelist, as well as percent from the rest of the New one text in a sermon, he makes for the most amazing preacher, since Testament. lay confusion, especially for those Paul! He proclaimed the Bible; he My advice to the preacher may be listeners who are biblical illiterates. never apologized for it. He was a

20 THE PREACHERS MAGAZINE People are buying Bibles—most don't know what to do with them after the purchase

happy preacher, and he made his of God” and Phillips Brooks’s “The evangelism. There is no closed sea­ hearers happy with the gospel he Fire and the Calf.” Book IV of Au­ son to evangelism, no reason why a preached. gustine’s On Christian Doctrine congregation shouldn’t have con­ Alexander Maclaren ranks as the contains the finest material ever verts in July. best at interpreting the Scriptures. written on homiletics. [Although Dr. Seminary. It is very difficult However, Robertson and George Blackwood never specified what he to teach seminarians who have been Adam Smith interpreted the Scrip­ considered to be the second-best called to the ministry by their moth­ tures best when meeting human work on homiletics, he was full of ers and not by God! Seminaries, gen­ needs specifically. the highest praise for Chrysostom’s erally, have failed to teach what to John Bunyan and Dwight L. Moody “Treatise on the Priesthood.”] preach and how to preach it. If I had were simple preachers, yet master H* The Bible. People are buying the chance at age 35 to be a bishop preachers. Some of us are afraid to the Bible, but most of them don’t or a beginning professor in a semi­ be simple. When I was young, I know what to do with it after they nary, I would choose the latter. [Dr. didn’t like either Bunyan or Moody; I make the purchase. Their preach­ Blackwood made this comment in could understand every word they ers could be at fault. The one thing his late 60s ] If I were the president wrote. I learned later that I was many preachers don’t know is their of a seminary, I would say to each wrong and they were right. Bible. I wish some of them knew as professor who was called to teach: Horace Bushnell was the most Your business in teaching theology brilliant preacher we ever had in or Old Testament or New Testament America. He was the intellectual gi­ ------0 ------or dogmatics or whatever is to pre­ ant of the American pulpit. Phillips pare men to believe it and interpret Brooks was the best preacher ever Someone in your it, to preach it and to teach it in produced in America because he facts of experience. was our best pastoral evangelist. His Lyman Beecher Lectures, Lectures audience will never Parishioners. Many a minister on Preaching, are the finest of the pities himself and his situation entire lecture series. hear you again when he has everything he needs: T. de Witt Talmage was probably parishioners! There are four types of the most popular preacher in Ameri­ ------0 ------parishioners: the dreamer, the can history. But when Talmage left a drone, the drudge, and the doer. If church, the people did also. His ser­ much about the Bible as they do the parishioners love their pastor, monizing was too preacher-cen- about Plato. My favorite Bible verse they will think seriously about what tered. is 2 Cor. 10:7: “Look at what is be­ he preaches. What about the preachers of this fore your eyes. If any one is con­ m Pastoral Practice. For the good century? Well, the sermons of Arthur fident that he is Christ’s, let him re­ of the parish, the pastor and his wife John Gossip and James S. Stewart mind himself that as he is Christ’s, should contribute at least 10 per­ will probably live longer than those so are we” (RSV). cent of their income to the congre­ of any other 20th-century preachers. t i t Evangelism. Evangelism is an­ gation’s program, engage in grace Gossip and Stewart are master other name for “missions at home.” before meals, and have a daily family preachers with master sermons. By In my estimation, the professional altar. The news of such practices the way, Stewart is my favorite living evangelist is good; the pastoral evan­ will eventually saturate the parish | book writer. gelist is better; the lay evangelist is —and there is nothing wrong with The two most famous sermons in best. I support C. H. Dodd’s view such news as this getting around. ^ the English language are Horace that whenever the New Testament Copyrighted by Christianity Today 1966 and used Bushnell’s “Every Man’s Life a Plan refers to preaching, it really means by permission.

JUNE/JULV/AUGUST 21 The Three Most Common Mistakes Even Good Preachers Make

by Kenneth J. Collins Fayetteville, N.C.

he second hymn has been room. Scholarly texts were meant to the promise and power of oral ad­ sung, and the congregation be read, not spoken. A few in the dress. sits down as the minister as­ congregation may be pleased by this A second way good preaching cends the pulpit. There is silence—show of erudition, but many simply turns bad is when ministers, for and expectation. Drawing on thewill not follow this kind of homily. whatever reason, refuse to stick to Tconfidence that comes from soundThey desire speech more suited to the subject. This common complaint preparation, the minister develops the ear than to the eye, speech is the damning sin of some of the his text and offers a striking illustra­ marked more by its rhythms, con­ most promising preachers. Having tion about a crippled boy who “ran” trasts, and repetitions than by long, so many different insights through a 10-kilometer race. The emotional complex sentences and theological experience and education, they are appeal is strong and is reflected in jargon. A 19th-century American often tempted to overload their ser­ many faces. president well understood the prin­ mons with material that the listener Toward the end of the sermon, ciples of effective speech. There­ simply cannot digest or that doesn’t however, many of the once-attentive fore, he was heard by the common relate to the selected theme. Note­ listeners are now fidgeting. One as­ people gladly—none other than less preachers are major offenders. sumes that they are no longer think­ Abraham Lincoln. For example, ob­ They often assume that their ser­ ing about Luke 19:11-27 (the para­ serve the contrasts and repetitions mons are much more coherent and ble of the talents), the text of this that carry the concluding remarks of therefore easy to follow than they sermon, but about the Dow-Jones av­ his second inaugural address: actually are. A good tape recorder, erage, what they will eat for lunch, With malice toward none, with however, quickly breaks the spell. A or who will make it into the play­ charity for all, with firmness in truly great preacher like Dr. King offs. What went wrong here? How the right as God gives us to see could approach the pulpit without can a sermon that began so well end the right, let us strive on to finish some sort of notes; few others can. so badly? the work we are in, to bind up the Contrary to popular belief, listen­ Perhaps the most serious mistake nation’s wounds, to care for him ing to a sermon is not a passive ac­ that even good preachers make is who shall have borne the battle tivity, but very hard work. Preachers that they so easily slip into the and for his widow and his orphan, should help their congregations by wrong form of language. Their to do all which may achieve and saying only one thing per sermon, speech reverberates, not with the cherish a just and lasting peace but they should say it well. cadences of an adept orator, but among ourselves and with all na­ For instance, each item of the tra­ with the intellectual rigor of a tions. ditional three-point sermort—if one scholarly text or of a seminary class­ Likewise, both John F. Kennedy uses this approach—should support and Martin Luther King, Jr., spoke us­ and amplify only one topic. What of­ ing colorful, gripping images. More­ ten happens, though, is that a three- over, they not only paid attention to point sermon quickly turns into a the meter and sound of their lan­ three-topic sermon. It is wise to save guage but also employed pointed the “extra” material for another day. contrasts to spark the imagination. There are other congregations to be No one ever slept through a King faced and other sermons to be sermon or a Kennedy speech—and preached. The mind and ear delight, for good reason. Both knew how to not in being overwhelmed, but in captivate their audiences through simplicity, order, and coherence.

22 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE A third mistake that even good the three counsels outlined above is excited, humble person who knows preachers at times make is that they not some technical advice, but the craft of public oral communica­ simply do not know how to end a rather a spiritual quality, namely, hu­ tion.” Once again, Lincoln comes to sermon. Yogi Berra, that witty com- mility. In the face of much Sunday mind. On November 19, 1863, the mon-sense “philosopher,” quipped morning distress what is called for is president gave a short speech in on one occasion, “It ain’t over till it’s “incarnational preaching,” where Gettysburg, Pa., which followed a over.” For the sake of preachers it preachers descend from the intel­ two-hour address by Edward Everett, should be added, “When it’s over, lectual world for a time, gently push a leading speaker of the time. Ever­ it’s over!” We have all listened to a abstractions aside, and speak the ett’s remarks received front-page at­ sermon in which the minister did language of the congregation. tention in the contemporary news­ not realize where the conclusion Preachers need to renounce their papers; Lincoln’s words were was or, worse yet, gave the conclu­ relegated to an inside page. Never­ sion 10 minutes ago but continues theless, Everett wrote to the presi­ to speak anyway! The kind, elderly dent shortly after the event: “I An exemplar of this fault is Wil­ should be glad if I could flatter my­ liam Jennings Bryan, former secre­ woman replied, self that I came as near to the central tary of state and fundamentalist idea of the occasion in two hours as champion. On one occasion, he de­ "Son, you missed you did in two minutes.” livered a lengthy speech before a All the vaunted techniques of or­ large audience in Virginia, after atory were no match for a genuine which he quickly turned to his a couple of fine desire to communicate. All the ego- mother and asked, “Well, how’d I driven attempts to impress were no do, Mom?” opportunities to substitute for the power of sincerity. The kind, elderly woman replied, With words well chosen, and with “Son, you missed a couple of fine sit down." humility and compassion that could opportunities to sit down.” be felt, Abraham Lincoln spoke the Not even the apostles or the saints desire to impress either through the language of the common man and in heaven will listen to anything that wide scope of their learning or woman that cold afternoon. He follows the true conclusion of a ser­ through sermon length. Preachers knew the pain of their loss and their mon. Mother Bryan’s advice is as rel­ should realize that though they are hopes for the future. He understood evant now as when it was first given. truly the instruments of God’s grace, that the grave site of the nation’s When it’s over, sit down or an­ it is the Most High who speaks honored dead was not a place for nounce the final hymn. through their humble, all-too-hu- posturing, but a place in which to Techniques are necessary for ef­ man words. This calls for both exhil­ touch deeply those who had been fective preaching, but they are by no aration and for self-abasement. scarred and ravaged by the evils of means sufficient; character is re­ A good definition of a preacher, war. Though the papers hardly took quired as well. Accordingly, the although it will never be found in notice, all the world remembered. common thread that brings together any dictionary, is the following: “an *

Preaching to Women (Continued from page 8) When I hear a preacher say, “Women as we should if we feel you haven’t sports buffs like our menfolk. Take must not ...” I tell myself he’s say­ spent enough time face-to-face with time to explain why half the congre­ ing, “Jill must not.” some of us to catch our heartbeat, gation is laughing their heads off at How can we avoid personalizing it feel our anguish, and share our tears. the joke! We’d like to join in and ap­ all? So please, be gentle. That’s our Women are struggling to find preciate it too. gift you are debating. The future of identity today; don’t laugh at us Think of us as you prepare your our ministry in your church is in while we discover ourselves. It’s messages. We love the Lord and we your hands. Men are making the been a long, dark road into the light love the church; we love you and we decisions for us. I think that should and laughter of full womanhood. want to work our heads off for the be cause for pause! The subject of self-image sells books Kingdom, laughing at the devil and The same sensitivity would be and fills seminars, counseling of­ making waves for God. But we need helpful for those who have had an fices, and mental homes. If we are equipping for the task. We need to abortion, as we hear you speak elo­ made in the same image of God as feel you know us, appreciate us, and quently about the right-to-life move­ you are, it would be such an encour­ understand us! (It can be done!) ment, or those regrettably single agement to hear it from the pulpit. We’ll surely pray for you and com­ again as we hear about the ills of di­ Lastly, how about some illustra­ mit ourselves to doing our part as vorce (we could preach “that” one tions from our world! you preach to us. $ for you!). But sometimes the shame By all means, tell us stories about Reprinted with permission from Preaching, January- creeps into the pew and sits hard by sports, but remember—not too February 1990, 1529 Cesery Blvd., Jacksonville, FL our side, and we can’t listen as well many of us get the point if we aren’t 32211.

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 23 have overcome obstacles, coped er? You don’t have to describe all with adversity, and learned valuable these details to the audience, but if lessons, we find insight for our own you can see them in your own mind, How lives. Stories help us apply biblical you will make the story more real truths to the world we live in. for the listeners. Whether a familiar biblical nar­ Using the gift of imagination, put rative or a story of modern-day peo­ yourself into the story. How would to Tell ple, the way in which the story is you have felt going out to meet the told will do much to determine its giant Goliath? What would you have impact on the audience. Good story­ said to the king? Remember that you tellers can make the oldest stories are telling a story, not giving a his­ a Good come to life so that you feel you are tory lecture. Lectures tell facts; sto­ hearing the story for the first time. ries share experiences. Every good Good storytellers can make their story is filled with emotion. Get in Story characters seem so real that you feel touch with your own feelings. Re­ you have known them all your life. member what it is like to be afraid While some people seem to be or happy or sad or angry. Feel with by Jean Gray blessed with the natural ability to the characters in your story so that Ozark, Mo. tell a story well, the art of story­ your audience can feel with them telling can be learned by anyone. too. The first requirement for good Modify your story to make it more storytelling is for the speaker to clear or to adapt to the age of the au­ be interested in the story. If you dience. Everyday, conversational just stick an anecdote into the ser­ words are always best. Your object is mon because you feel obligated to not to impress the listeners with torytelling is an essential part illustrate your point, but you don’t your large vocabulary, but to im­ of preaching. Preachers are really care about the story, your con­ press their hearts with truth. In tell­ often called upon to tell a gregation is not likely to care about ing a personal experience, you may storyS to children at the beginning of it either. As a speaker, the worst sometimes want to use third person the worship service, or in a Sunday thing you can do is bore your audi­ instead of first, such as, “Bill saw the School class or youth group, but ence; the second worst is to leave truck coming,” rather than, “I saw children are not the only audience them thinking, So what? An illustra­ the truck coming.” for a pastor’s stories. Adults enjoy tion that is uninteresting is likely to All the principles of public speak­ stories too, and the best sermons do both. ing apply to storytelling. Maintain contain one or two story illustra­ When you find a story that relates eye contact. Vary the pitch and vol­ tions. to your point in an interesting way, ume of your voice and rate of The Bible is a collection of sto­ go over the illustration until you speech. Example: ries. Within its pages are stories of have the details clearly in mind. [Quickly] Ammon ran down the heroes and heroines, of wise people While some parts of the story may dusty road as fast as his legs would and foolish people, of animals and be modified or condensed, you go, [slower] but then all at once he of children. There are Bible stories don’t want to omit any pertinent stopped . . . because, right there that make us smile and Bible stories facts. If you are telling a story about in front of him . . . [slower and that make us cry. the conflict between a man and his softer] was the biggest lion he had Crowds of people, both adults and new stepson, but you forget to say ever seen. Ammon was afraid, but children, listened in rapt attention that the story is set on the frontier in he remembered the prayer the as Jesus told stories of a father and the 1800s, the audience may be missionary had taught him; and son reunited, of a lost sheep that confused when Indians attack! bowing his head, he whispered, was loved by its shepherd, of a man Visualize your story. Stories don’t [very quietly] “Dear God, . . .” who discovered a treasure in a field. happen on the pages of books. Sto­ Be sure that your story has both an In the stories of how other people ries happen to real people who live aim and a climax. Is your aim to en­ in real houses and eat real food. tertain? to inform? to challenge? to Close your eyes and try to imagine inspire? If the story is a sermon illus­ the setting and the people of the il­ tration, what does it illustrate? If lustration. How was the French­ you don’t have an aim clearly in woman dressed as she climbed the mind, the congregation may enjoy steps to the guillotine, carrying her your story, but they will be left infant child and knowing they were thinking, What’s the point? How both about to die? What did she hear does that relate to the rest of the ser­ from the jeering crowd? What did mon? You don’t have to say, “The she see in the eyes of her execution­ (Continued on page 27)

24 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE Art in Preaching

by David L. Vardaman Plainwell, Mich.

ohn R. W. Stott begins his book fertile and parental, if He could The Cross of Christ with a cause Mary to give birth, He can do look at The Shadow of Death, anything. What might He do in Ja painting by Holman Hunt. It my life if I remain open to His is a glimpse of the carpenter’s shop workings? of Nazareth bathed in late afternoon This led me to construct a sunlight. Stretching work-cramped sermon on the subject of God muscles, Jesus strikes a chillingly manifesting His power in com­ crucifixionlike pose. Tools hung be­ mitted mortals; how He in­ hind Him create the illusion of the cludes us in the miraculous; Cross. Mary, startled by the pro­ rarely makes us endure phetic scene, kneels by a chest alone but connects us containing the gifts of the wise with others similarly men. Dr. Stott’s point: “From blessed; and stays with us Jesus’ youth, indeed even from through whatever He has His birth, the cross cast its sha­ called us to experience. dow ahead of Him. His death Could I have written the was central to His mission.”' same sermon without Rem­ Charles Swindoll, preaching on brandt? I believe so. And yet, the “Strengthening Your Grip on Mon­ visual stimulation of the painting ey,” describes a painting by French helped me see the passage afresh. In painter Sebastien Bourdon. It por­ this instance the painting need not trays the rich farmer of Luke 12 sur­ have been mentioned publicly. Its rounded by his wealth, all is covered Seeing what one work was accomplished behind the with dust, and the death angel— scenes. But biblical art might also hand on the rich man’s shoulder— has only read can assume a more prominent role, as in purses his lips forming the word the next example. “fool.”2 be thrilling Asked to speak to ministers and Richard Bewes, pastor of All Soul’s spouses at a Christmas banquet, I Church in London, used a print of wondered what to say. Preachers Renoir’s Umbrellas to launch a chil­ have the reputation of being the dren’s talk about the symbolism of hardest group to whom to preach, water in the Scriptures. Preparing to preach an Advent ser­ and Christmas makes stringent de­ These uses of classical art to illus­ mon from Luke 1:39-45, Mary’s visit mands on creativity and originality. trate preaching prompted me to to Elizabeth, I recalled Rembrandt’s To make matters worse, I was allot­ look for additional works that could Visitation. This painting portrays ted only 10 minutes in which to enhance my understanding of Scrip­ Mary’s arrival at her cousin’s home. give devotional thoughts. Solution: ture. I have found a wealth of pic­ Elizabeth greets her as Zechariah de­ art in preaching. Here’s how it went: tures in galleries and books that do scends the front steps. Elizabeth is Beginning with Luke 2:8-20, I just that. While Bible students nor­ wrinkled, stooped, and walks with a read the account of the shepherds mally turn to commentaries for in­ cane. Mary is smooth, vibrant, erect, and the angels. Then I related the sight, biblical art can be a visual re­ and expectant. Zechariah’s hairline following: source for enhancing one’s studies. recedes, his beard is hoary. Gerritvan Honthorst (1590-1656) Through the centuries virtually ev­ Though pregnant, Scripture says painted at least three works titled ery scene in the Bible has been Mary was a virgin. It also says the The Adoration of the Shepherds. In sketched, engraved, or painted. See­ older couple was past childbearing, his 1632 version a shaft of light in­ ing what one has only read can be but The Visitation helps me see vades the stable, illuminating the thrilling, like the thrill of the near­ how far past. Were they beyond Christ child. The Virgin Mary draws sighted person fit with his first pair wanting children? Looking at Rem­ back the blankets for the conve­ of eyeglasses. Here’s how it has brandt’s work, I muse, If God could nience of visitors; and such visitors! worked for me. cause Zechariah and Elizabeth to be Cherub angels descend the light, de­

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 25 lighted to witness the advent of One While we are busy feeding our pictures to my congregation. Each they have known as God himself. flocks on the food of Advent, we “picture” was drawn with words as Mary is a woman of sturdy grace may take little for ourselves. What if it were a work of art and we were who does not flinch in the presence of our families? Will we bring any of on a museum tour. (For all five, see of heavenly beings. Confidently she God’s love home to them? The Wesleyan Advocate, issues displays her Child and gazes at the This is too sacred a season to dated April 18, 1988, through May angels as if they were expected. waste. When I consider the ado­ 2, 1988.) The fourth word picture Joseph is visible to our right, head ration of the shepherds, I remember follows: thrust into the press of human vis­ that I too am a shepherd and must This fourth picture is titled The itors. His hair is gray and thinning, adore Him. Ladies and gentlemen, Punctual Christ; Mark 5:21-43- It is but a full gray beard settles on his we are shepherds, and in the words the home of Jairus, the synagogue chest, framing the tanned face of a of the 18th-century hymn, “O come, ruler from Capernaum. Stone laborer—one who works in the sun let us adore Him!” walled, flat-roofed, the exterior is but has the sense to wear a hat. the same camel color as the sur­ Four shepherds crowd around, rounding rocky hills where the viewing the Christ child. The first, a blocks were quarried. As synagogue man in his 20s, stands beside Joseph, Integrating art with ruler, Jairus was known, respected, sharing his perspective of the Baby. and responsible. He was in charge of The second, a teenager, stands in preaching works the synagogue building and prop­ awe beside Joseph, appreciating the erty, the ordering of worship, ap­ depth of character in the humble because the pointing persons to read the Scrip­ carpenter. The third shepherd, rug­ tures and pray, and inviting strangers ged, short beard and white hair, emphasis remains to address the congregation.3 kneels to the right of the manger— But, in this portrait, something hands clasped in the devotion of on the Bible else is on his mind. His daughter had prayer. The fourth kneels to our left, fallen sick, and none of the physi­ one hand clutching cap to chest cian’s arts could lift her to health. while the other grasps the collar of Now she was about to die. Her immi­ his sheepdog, who looks at us sus­ nent death crowded every other piciously while guarding the New­ The most difficult aspect of con­ thought from his mind, consumed born. sulting art works is locating them. If every waking moment, and intruded It is a moving scene. Mary and one had a complete art library on into his dreams. Jesus aware of heavenly beings; the hand, this wouldn’t be a problem, Since her birth, 12 years had tip­ shepherds and Joseph transported to but most of us don’t. However, I toed past. Where did they go? Was states of wonderment by the miracle have accumulated a few illustrations this all the time allotted her? Where of birth, knowing this Child was an­ by purchasing catalogs from art was the child he had once measured nounced by angels—the Savior of museums ($10.00 to $20.00 each), with the length of a single forearm, the World! The painting is Hont- buying postcard prints or slides in head in his palm, body reclining in horst’s interpretation of Luke 2:15-20. museum stores, and by photograph­ his strength? Was this the face that It was the first Christmas Day, and ing art. Before you take pictures in a once seemed all eyes and a smile? the shepherds were working as museum, check the museum’s pho­ Though not yet a woman, even in usual. Well, of course, being the tograph policy. Then, use flash for that day of adolescent marriages, she first Christmas, there was no tradi­ brighter pictures with truer color was observant, sensitive, and com­ tion of it being a holy day. They saturation. Stand at a 30-degree an­ passionate. He had noted her devel­ went to work just like any other gle to the painting to reduce flash oping sense of humor, her profi­ day—until the angels split the sky glare. Bruce Bernard’s Bible and its ciency, her diligence. She was with heavenly light and sang the Painters (Macmillan, $25.00) is an beginning to talk about boys in a Gloria in Excelsis. Then some of the excellent volume arranged in bibli­ teasing, friendly fashion. But it was shepherds made the trip into Bethle­ cal order (Genesis to Revelation). her sudden stretch to over 5 feet hem to view the Baby for them­ Check local libraries for art re­ that forced him to acknowledge his selves. sources such as The World Encyclo­ little girl was growing up. Before I wonder, who stayed behind to pedia of Art, Art Index, or A Bio­ her birth, he had lived quite con­ tend the sheep? Did they see the graphical Dictionary of Painters tentedly, but after a dozen years it Christ? Did they worship at His man­ and Engravers. Don’t overlook was difficult to imagine life without ger? Did they worship at all? They nearby university libraries for addi­ her. had been bathed in heavenly light, tional art sources. Abruptly, sickness took the light had heard the angel chorus, and If consulting works of art en­ from her eyes and laid her feverish were excited with the good news; hances one’s understanding of Scrip­ in bed. Nearer death than life, the but—did they worship? ture, could describing biblical ac­ physicians whispered the dreaded Today, we are shepherds. Will we tion as if viewing a picture have a news—she couldn’t last the day. worship with our families and con­ beneficial effect? I have tried it, and Then Jesus rowed ashore! Jairus him­ gregations, or will we work right the answer is yes. Preaching from self ran to the beach, edged through through this blessed occasion? the Gospel of Mark, I described five the crowd, and knelt, begging Jesus

26 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE to visit his daughter with healing but asleep.’ But they laughed at years. He may ignore many oppor­ power. And Jesus agreed. him” (Mark 5:38-40). tunities to be early, but He never However, his daughter wasn’t the The artist gives us a view into the comes too late. Instantly healing the only sick person in Capernaum. As home. Accompanied only by the par­ sick is a miracle, but to raise the Jesus moved toward the home, He ents and the three disciples, Jesus dead baffles even believers. Jesus is was interrupted by another in need. entered the child’s resting place. the final hope. He is the punctual It was a woman who sought treat­ Ever the gentle Shepherd, He awak­ Christ. He may not give us what we ment of an incurable illness for as ened her quietly. Taking her hand, need when we think we need it. But long as the girl had been alive. He said, “Little girl, I say to you, get if we are truly in need, He will While Jesus stopped to minister to up!” (v. 41). Mark gives us the very come. Surely He is the final hope of her, the daughter of Jairus died. But words of Christ, "Talitha koum!” mankind. as the dreaded news reached the Were these words with which her Integrating art with preaching synagogue ruler, so did Jesus, saying, mother had wakened her each morn­ works because the emphasis remains “Don’t be afraid; just believe” (Mark ing? on the Bible. Even when describing 5:36). Jesus called Peter, James, and Mark says, “Immediately the girl scripture as if it were a picture, I John to follow Him and set out for stood up and walked around . . . and make sure that biblical truth, not the the mourning household. [Jesus] told them to give her some­ wonder of art, is the final focal She would be buried within thing to eat” (w. 42-43). point. The Bible is the primary hours. Already funeral rites had be­ The scene shows Jesus smiling at source of spiritual truth. Biblical gun with the arrival of professional the girl who flits about. She is whole paintings will never replace com­ mourners. There they are, black again. The color on her cheeks is not mentaries. Nevertheless, ministers, robed, crowding the front of the the flush of fever, but the blush of teachers, and laymen could benefit house. Heads thrown back, their health. Her mother’s arms reach to from biblical art, even as John Stott, faces contorted, but not with sor­ enfold her. Jairus is on his knees, Charles Swindoll, and Richard row. They are mocking. Mark writes, face awash in tears. The light in his Bewes testify through their writing “When they came to the home of eye has been rekindled. His arms and preaching. the synagogue ruler, Jesus saw a reach toward Jesus in absolute wor­ commotion, with people crying and ship. What a day! 17.1. (Downers Grove, 111.: InterVarsity Press, 1986), wailing loudly. He went in and said The Punctual Christ! Time is noth­ 2. Word, Life Lifter Tapes. 3. Zondervan Pictorial Bible Dictionary, ed. to them, Why all this commotion ing to Him. A thousand years are as Merrill C. Tenney (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1967), and wailing? The child is not dead one day, and a day as a thousand 818.

How to Tell a Good Story (Continued from page 24) moral is . . .” As a matter of fact, of books and magazines, don’t over­ dren may feel especially vulnerable, please don’t use that phrase, be­ look the not-so-obvious—newspa worried that everything they do or cause it tells children, “The story is pers, for instance. Tucked away in say is likely to be repeated publicly. over, you can stop listening now,” the pages of your morning paper are Remember that words have the and it insults the intelligence of lots of human interest stories. When power to destroy—or build. adults. If you have had your aim in you hear someone else tell a good Search your memory for your own mind while telling the story, they story, write down an outline of it so stories. You don’t have to imagine will know what the moral is. that you can use it sometime. what it felt like, looked like, The climax of the story comes Listen to your friends and rela­ sounded like, tasted like, in your when the basic problem is resolved tives. If you listen with sensitivity, personal experience story. You in some way. The resolution may be praying for insight, you will find sto­ know what it was like because you a happy one, as when the prodigal ries everywhere. Preachers are no­ lived it. To make the story also live son’s father welcomed him home; or torious for using their own spouses for your audience, remember to it may be a sad one, as when the rich and children in sermon illustrations. keep your aim and climax in mind. young ruler turned away from fol­ This can be good, helping the con­ If an incident had an impact on your lowing Jesus. The resolution may be gregation to relate to you and your life, hearing your story can have an a totally mental process, such as a family as “normal human beings,” impact on others. choice made or a lesson learned. A subject to the same foibles as they. You can tell stories that will make climax doesn’t have to be dramatic, There are some dangers to be aware people laugh when they want to cry but it does have to be certain. Don’t of, however, in using your own fam­ in self-pity; you can tell stories that leave the audience hanging. Wheth­ ily for illustrations. If you do it too will make people cry when they are er the climax comes after two sen­ often, or if your stories are “cute” insensitive to the pain of others; you tences or at the conclusion of a six- but don’t add any insight to the ser­ can tell stories that will make peo­ week series, be sure that the resolu­ mon, the congregation may perceive ple take action when they are con­ tion is clear. you as arrogant and boastful. The tent with complacency. Where can you find good stories other danger is that you will embar­ With prayer and practice, you can to tell? Besides the obvious sources rass the people you love. Your chil­ tell stories! $

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 27 1 Missions I____ _ j The Many Faces of Mission Education by David F. Nixon ission education in a grow- These meetings, often less formal Fort Wayne, Ind. ing church has many than corporate worship services, faces. Its effectiveness de­ give opportunity for unique ap­ pends on one’s perception ofproaches. how Perhaps the group enjoys Mthe cause of missions is commu­a fellowship meal together. The nicated to our beloved holiness peo­ leader can promote missions as part ple. With so many new people com­ of a meeting that encourages fellow­ ing into our growing church family, ship and systematically keeps mis­ we need to let them know the great sions before the people. things God is doing in missions Some churches find the midweek through the international church. evening monthly missions service to For some churches, mission edu­ be successful. Find a design that cation is simply a designated person systematically educates people in responsible to teach a lesson. Some­ missions and that involves them in times the ill-prepared lesson gets fulfilling mission objectives. thrown together at the last minute. World Mission magazine, a publi­ He hands out parts to adults as they cation of the Church of the Naza­ arrive for the missionary meeting. rene, demonstrates a face of mission No wonder the readers lack skill or education that is consistently fresh. enthusiasm! Facts and figures dis­ It provides up-to-date information pensed without imagination are for the congregation, exciting ser­ quickly forgotten. A mission educa­ mon illustrations, and items the tion lesson has effective impact only whole family can discuss. as the Mission Council spends time Another face of mission educa­ in prayer and preparation, con­ tion, the deputation service, informs stantly looking for unique ways to and inspires as well as teaches us to involve people in the cause of mis­ pray and give and support. We hear sions. firsthand reports of our many fields My church has found it very effec­ of endeavor from our highly es­ tive to devote a segment of one Sun­ teemed missionaries. The promo­ day night service each month to mis­ tional brochure proudly announces, sions. We reach more people this “A Missionary Is Coming.” A sense of way than through a monthly mis­ anticipation builds in our people. sionary meeting on another night. Seeing our missionaries “up-close Themes and information of up-to- and personal” benefits the educa­ date happenings found in mission tional process. Our people receive education curriculum are distilled firsthand reports about accom­ into interesting and informative vi­ plishments for Christ in places they gnettes as part of our Sunday ser­ may never personally visit. In many vices. But this presents only one ways, our missionaries keep the vi­ face of mission education. sion alive. Their reports tell us the In a growing number of our good things resulting from our churches, mission education occurs prayers and giving. Our hearts thrill through smaller groups known as to the on-scene reports of what God chapters or mission cell groups. is doing. Prayers for God’s work in a This approach may prove especially particular area ascend from our helpful in churches where small churches all over the world where groups function well, particularly returned missionaries help keep the larger churches. Monthly meetings vision alive. promote the cause of missions. Deputation services accomplish

28 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE came known as “The Nixon Family” children’s church with our children. Work and Witness team traveled to In Vacation Bible School, a short Bayamon, Puerto Rico. Our assign­ time segment focused on reading ment focused on finishing a church missionary books to the children. In­ building. Because of donated funds, centives encourage individual parti­ the building was dedicated in mem­ cipation. One requirement for parti­ ory of my mother, Ella Margaret cipation in our teen Work and Nixon. Eighteen people from Lake Witness project demands that two Avenue Church of the Nazarene in missionary books be read. Fort Wayne, Ind., joined members of Mission education has many faces. my family to finish and dedicate the If you are fortunate to have a mis­ building. Windows were installed; sionary as a member of your church, drywall hung and plastered; and a the work of missions includes a very platform was prepared. But the most personal touch. Lane and Janelle thrilling part for me was the privi­ Fosnaugh went out from Lake Ave­ lege of building the altar and pulpit. nue and have served the church in My dad built and hung a beautiful Papua New Guinea at the hospital in something else. Our people’s aware­ cross in the sanctuary. My brother, Kudjip. The exchange of correspon­ ness increases regarding the way the Wendel, and I built the altar where dence with them, along with sea­ church supports its missionaries. precious souls will come to Christ. sonal gifts and remembrances, helps When we see the homes they live in Imagine my thrill as I preached the keep missions alive in our midst. We and their needs being cared for, we first message in the new pulpit as intercede for them publicly and in are glad to give generously as part­ our private devotions. The same can ners in a global cause. be done with your assigned mis­ Audiovisuals play a vital role in sionaries. mission education, especially in our When has mission education media-oriented society. An effective achieved its purpose? When the vi­ slide set or video conveys the mes­ sion of fulfilling Jesus’ Great Com­ sage and challenges our people in mission is kindled at home and ways that other means cannot. See­ abroad. When the church mobilizes ing the sights and hearing the to pray and give and work to see it sounds of another culture can some­ fulfilled. If God does not send us to times only be duplicated by means another culture, we must faithfully of a photograph or a tape. It trans­ send and support those persons ports us to the world mission areas whom God selects to go. of the church and sets us in the mid­ Mission education causes me not dle of a church service in Mozam­ only to look at what others are do­ bique, a hospital ward in India, or a ing but also to look in the mirror Bible college classroom in Haiti. and see my own face. As a pastor, Another face of mission education what am I doing? Or what should is the Faith Promise Convention. I do in my church to help my Thousands of conventions occur Dr. James Hudson, regional director people know more about mis­ around the world every year. These for the Caribbean, translated. sions? Mission education has intensive times of mission education Something happens when Work achieved its purpose when it finally not only keep the vision alive but and Witness team members return. causes me to take my place in the also raise millions of dollars each They educate others. And they pray. harvest fields. $ year to support missions. These an­ Bayamon is a permanent entry on my nual conferences greatly assist the prayer list, along with all the other local church in educating the con­ places I have visited and worked and gregation in missions and in raising preached the gospel. the mission budget—the missions One last face of mission education lifeline of support—and millions deserves mention: education that more in missions specials. occurs through the dissemination of Many laypersons get involved in missionary reading books and tapes. missions personally through Work Churches must find workable plans and Witness projects. This method for circulating the books. In our rates as one of the best ways to kin­ church, the ongoing task of distribu­ dle a passion for souls in the hearts tion takes place through our Sunday of people. When they experience School classes. Adults have books missions firsthand, a vision is born and tapes as do our children and in their hearts that nothing else can teens. Systematic mission education produce. takes place once a month on Wed­ In the spring of 1990, what be­ nesday nights with our teens and in

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 29 Pastor's Personal Growth to the work of the Kingdom. When I stand before the Lord waiting to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” He will probably not be holding my attendance report in His I Quit! hands. Numbers may be valuable in­ dicators of effectiveness over the by Greg Mason long haul, but not over three or four Georgetown, Ky. weeks. Jesus lost about 380 follow­ ers somewhere between His ascen­ t’s Monday afternoon and I’ve de­ Our budgets aren’t up-to-date. sion and Pentecost. And numbers cided to quit. The sun is shin­ The prospect of standing before my certainly aren’t reflective of faithful­ ing, the weather is warm, the denominational meeting is almost ness, compassion, or concern. The birds are singing, but I’m quittingnauseating. No matter how positive Psalmist didn’t say, “Search my an­ anyway. the year has been, there always nual report, and know my statistics.” I I’m going to quit doing it all my­ Things have not gone well lately. seems to be something we haven’t The past few years have been great! done. It’s embarrassing to stand be­ self. I’m going to involve more of my A growing church, good salary, love­ fore pastors, laymen, and denomina­ people. I’m going to quit thinking ly community, increasing statistics, tional leaders and feel like a failure. that I’m the only person in my supportive congregation, fine staff. They say the pastor is the “key”— church with gifts or concern. If However, the wheels have come but somebody keeps changing the things fail, it may not be because I off—and I’m quitting. Several weeks locks. I quit! have done a poor job of serving; I ago we completed a successful Stew­ My congregation is either tired or may have done a poor job of dele­ ardship Campaign. Now we are em­ lazy. I never thought a church our gating. As pastor the Lord has given barking on a hectic, strenuous, and size would have such difficulty find­ me caring and qualified people. taxing building program. I’m going ing committed teachers, choir mem­ I’m going to quit feeling guilty to quit first. bers, visitation teams, and people to about being with my family. Every' Since completing the stewardship pray. The key word is “committed.” evening that I’m home with them I program, I have suffered what some Teachers arrive late, the choir won’t must fight the temptation to believe call the Elijah syndrome: tired, de­ practice, and calls for visitation or that that somehow makes me a pressed, feeling sorry for myself. I prayer bring out the same two or poorer pastor. The road to hell is have plenty of reason to feel bad— three each month. lined with pastors’ children whose and to quit. Whether my congregation is tired fathers made 2,000 calls every year. Attendance at church services the or not, I know I am. Seventy-five- I must win them if I am to win any­ past three or four weeks is down. Va­ hour weeks, maybe five days off in one. In 30 years they and my grand­ cations, illness, visits to “Grandma,” the last five months. When you are children will be the ones that visit trips to the amusement park, re­ off-duty, you are not off-duty. I my retirement quarters. Former unions, and bad weather have all af­ sometimes think that working in a members will seldom come. When I fected the attendance. I find myself factory would be great. Put in your am with my family, I am energized constantly wondering if people real­ eight hours, five days a week, go and refreshed. ly care about their church. I find my­ home and forget it. Maybe I’ll quit. Also, I’m going to quit feeling self exasperated and envious over Normally I’m not a quitter. I’ve sorry for myself. God loves me, my other people’s vacations and illnesses. been a fighter all my life. I never family loves me, and 95 percent of When people come to church, give up. I’m usually very motivated my congregation loves me. I serve a they don’t seem to worship. They and highly energized. Never was wonderful Lord. He affirms me seem to want to be entertained. heard a discouraging word. But to­ when statistics or people don’t. I They respond as if they’re at a con­ day, after weeks of reflection and live in a wonderful community in a cert or play instead of in church. prayer, I’m quitting. That’s right— I wonderful home. My congregation They’re up and down, in and out. I quit! isn’t as large as I wish, but they are think I’m noticing more crying ba­ I’m going to quit majoring on mi­ good to me and my family. They are bies, fingernail clipping, and casual nors and get back to basics. When I thoughtful and warm, forgiving and conversing than normal during the am tired or frustrated, my personal understanding. Many other pastors services. devotional life seems to suffer the would love to come here. I have a most. I’m going to quit wasting time great wife and great children. fiddling with financial figures and They’re still glad I’m a pastor, and if attendance averages, and spend they’re happy, so shall I be. more time meditating and praying. So I quit! I have decided to quit I’m going to quit concentrating on thinking that this is “my” church. It changing everyone else and ask God is the Lord’s. He is the Potter; I am to change me. I’m going to pray for a the clay. revival instead of a packed house. Finally I’m going to quit quitting I’m going to quit letting statistical —at least until next Monday after­ numbers tell me how valuable I am noon or next statistical year. $

30 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE The Hang-up of ism. His prejudices, along with dif­ ferences of opinion, had closed his Realism mind to finer qualities in these brethren. A bit of adjustment on his by Raymond C. Kratzer little hope. Their assessment of the part would have released him from a Yakima, Wash. impossible has so filtered into every frustrating deterrent to progress and area of their imagination that their would have opened up a whole new machinery for progress has become world of possibilities. he word realism defines the sadly gummed up with the sludge of The next pastor found these men tendency to face the facts cynicism. to be among his most staunch sup­ and be practical rather than The kingdom of God requires porters. They were generous, coop­ imaginary or visionary. It is in con­facts and practicality. But if we only erative, and eager to work with their trast to idealism. look at the bare, austere facts, we pastor. His love for them caused TUnfortunately, this philosophy of leave God out of the picture. For ex­ them to be more aware of their spiri­ realism has taken hold of our era so ample, who would have envisioned tual needs. Out of this wholesome firmly that it has in ways destroyed the invaluable ingredients in men relationship, power was generated, such things as faith, vision, and ad­ like Matthew, or Peter, or John, or and progress began to happen. venture. In the secular world it is other disciples of our Lord. When Some situations are much more smart to “tell it like it is.” However, Jesus looked at them, He saw gold difficult than others. Some churches too often this is simply a license to within this human ore. Upon the have gone on for years with little be sarcastic or brutally frank, dis­ first realistic look, Simon appeared growth. At times it would seem that regarding the feelings of others, and like a piece of putty, vacillating, and certain members are deterrents to quenching the embers of idealism. unstable. But Jesus saw beyond to progress. And this may be true to a In the Lord’s work the Bible em­ what he could become and called degree. But on the whole, most of phasizes the importance of vision him a “Stone” (Peter). John was a our church members want their and faith: “Where there is no vision, hot-tempered fisherman, self-seek­ churches to become stronger. Some the people perish” (Prov. 29:18, ing, and full of worldly ambition. may have preconceived ideas as to KJV). Vision has been a standard of But Jesus saw him as the “Disciple of what growth involves. They may un­ conduct for the growing edge of the Love” who could influence the consciously fear becoming too large church. This statement from Prov­ world through his life and writings. lest they lose their place of lead­ erbs helps us neutralize today’s A pastor was constantly stymied in ership. This is a possible human ele­ trends, which offer so little in the his leadership in a certain church ment in group dynamics. area of the supernatural. because of a vocal member of the How do you gain a fresh insight Take church growth, for example. church board. He saw her as carnal, into the possibilities that lie dor­ There are prophets of doom today unprogressive, a block to all of his mant in these places? Dr. Chapman who would quote chapter and verse suggestions. To him that was the real used to say that with God the only depicting the impossibility of picture. But was it? The next pastor difference between the possible and growth in some areas. They point discovered through a fresh insight the impossible is that the impossible out that certain communities are that here was a person with strength may take a little longer. The Scrip­ immune to the claims of the gos­ and leadership ability. With wisdom tures are replete with scintillating pel. They further opine that some he harnessed her talents until she promises for “impossible” situ­ churches, by the nature of their con­ became an invaluable aid to the ations: “Ask, and it shall be given stituency, will never be any stronger work of the whole church. you” (Matt. 7:7, KJV). “He that than they are at the present. They il­ A pastor spoke to me concerning goeth forth and weepeth, bearing lustrate by describing the power two strong members of his church. (Continued on page 34) structure in those churches who He saw them as arrogant trou­ pose an unalterable barrier to any blemakers, unwilling to follow his real progress. leadership. He suggested that it The problem is that these persons would be in the best interests of that sometimes serve as pastors. They are church for me, as district superin­ immobilized on the hang up of real­ tendent, to put them out. His ism. Facts are facts to them. They method would have been to almost refuse to see beyond the darkened literally “throw them out.” Upon glass. They have lost the “wonder of closer analysis, I could see that he it all.” Life becomes a drudge with was fastened on the hang up of real­

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 31 Pastor, Be Encouraged The correcting posture is what the pastor does best. He is trained to re­ spond, to adopt, to stretch, to pur­ sue, to grow, to learn. The pastor prays and therefore seeks guidance. Lessons So, there is no one more conscious that life is mostly correcting. Of all people, the pastor is most conscious that he is less than perfect. In fact, there are times one might think that being on course 2 percent of the time is a high estimate! Where does all of this lead us? To three important conclusions. First, Pastor, be encouraged—one does not have to be perfect! If a pastor knows how to do the correcting pro­ cedures, he will make it. It is not perfection our people seek. It is a pastor who is willing to serve, if not always perfectly, and to minister to needs, if not always in a perfect way. Second, Pastor, be encouraged— one can struggle, at times, and make the journey You can bleed a little and still survive. You can mess it up, badly even, but still stay in the jour­ ney Why? Because life is more cor­ recting than being perfect. Life is more attitude—the words “I’m sorry” and “I apologize” are great corrective lubricants that build rela­ tionships and put one back on the road to ministry and service. Life is going the extra mile, offering for­ giveness—and receiving forgive­ ness. It is reaching out to under­ stand, rather than being understood. It is taking another’s hurt into your heart and offering healing. None of these come easy, but out of the struggle, the pain, the humble jour­ ney of reconciliation come strength and trust for the journey Third, Pastor, be encouraged— out of the corrective times in minis­ try come some of the treasured memories of pastoral ministry. From Editor’s Note: I was startled, at first, to realize an “I’m sorry” comes a new and bet­ Continuing thoughts on a previous that a rocket is on course only 2 per­ ter relationship. From an apology article titled "So Much of Life Is Ad­ cent of the time! How does it reach comes a deeper trust and reconcilia­ justing." Writer C. Neil Strait has its destination? The answer is clear tion. From a confession comes heal­ further insights for us. —the rest of the time it is correct­ ing and hope. From the struggle to ing. forgive comes peace and friendship. ou Mobley and Nate McKeown, All of us feel, at times, less-than- So, let us learn from the rocket, in their book Beyond IBM, perfect performance, the missed op­ which takes correcting as a part of A wrote this interesting piece: portunity, a good-intentioned deed the price to reach its destination. I“A rocket ... is on course only 2%misinterpreted, or a blotched rela­ Pastor, be encouraged—correcting of the time—the rest of the time is tionship. I am encouraged that rock­ is part of the journey. It is often the correcting” ([New York: McGraw- ets are not always on course, and, if I price for effective, fulfilling minis­ Hill Publishing Co., 1989], 30). I read Mobley and McKeown cor­ try! May you have grace for the jour­ needed that bit of statistic! rectly, success is in correcting! ney. |

32 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE Minister's Mate weekend filled with Your love.” I wept and they wept with me. I felt accepted and loved by these women as they prayed. A peace and restfulness filled me. God was answering their prayers. Be­ fore the meeting was over, I began to look forward to the weekend and The Real Me getting to know Lydia better. The peace continued throughout the weekend, and I truly enjoyed the by Beverly Caruso visit. But what about the women’s Orange, Calif. respect for me? I worried. During the next several weeks I had opportunity to counsel some of the women present that day. One f one more person arrives at my cept was deeply etched in my soul. said, “I never came to you before be­ door with a suitcase, I’m going I looked around at the women, so cause I didn’t think you ever experi­ to pack my own, I told myself. involved in their conversations. I ence problems such as I have. After Within a few hours of my resolutionknew the deepest hurts and strug­ you asked us to pray for you, I felt Ithe phone rang. My brother, Dave,gles of many of them. But they didn’t you would understand.” had met the girl he wanted to marry, know any of mine. Could I tell them Another told me she wanted to be and he wanted us to get to know Ly­ of this struggle? I had asked for more real herself after she saw the dia better. Could he bring her for a prayer for physical needs before, but true “me” that day. weekend visit? not for emotional needs. Did I dare Another admitted, “I thought you I liked Lydia. Already I suspected share with them? always had your act together and she was going to be my sister-in-law, As we worshiped in song, I de­ wouldn’t understand the problems I so how could I turn him down? cided I would. Then I changed my have. I was shocked to see you weep “Sure, she’s always welcome. She mind. I rubbed the moisture from before us, surprised that you have can stay in Debbie’s room.” my palms as our prayer time started. hard times emotionally too—sur­ During that summer and fall we’d My insides were painfully tight, but prised that there are things you can’t had an unusual number of house- I knew the weekend would be even handle alone.” guests. My younger brother, Dave, more stressful if I didn’t have a I wept again that night before the was visiting the United States for six change in my emotions. I’ll do it! Lord. “O God, how could I have months from his missionary work in I plunged in. “I need your prayers. been so blind? Forgive me. Help me Samoa. He had spent many nights I need healing in my emotions. I to be who I really am.” with us. In addition, Dave’s visits have company coming this weekend, It took a conscious effort to had been interspersed with other and I don’t want company now.” change years of habit and ways of short-term visits, from one night to That’s not how I wanted to say it. I thinking. Gradually I was able to re­ several weeks by friends and rela­ started over and told them about all veal the real me. As I became trans­ tives. Now I was feeling sorry for my­ the company and the phone call. It parent, I noticed others were en­ self, longing for the privacy and nor­ seemed like forever before anyone abled to be themselves as well. malcy of simply being “just our moved or said anything. Finally I also had to learn how and when family.” someone stood and placed her chair to be transparent. I chose to con­ Now I’ve done it, I thought. I’d in the center of the room and waited sciously reveal myself to our group. rather that they not come. How can I for me to sit in it. Many times I had For a while I went to the extreme of be hospitable with these feelings? joined the others as we laid hands telling everyone everything. I real­ I was still struggling with my on the one there, praying for her ized I became offensive, even ob­ emotions when I arrived at our needs. Never had I been in the chair. noxious, being transparent with ev­ women’s Bible study the next morn­ “Give Bev peace this weekend, eryone at all times. ing. I’ve prayed many times for Lord,” one prayed. “Take away these I’ve learned that transparency is needs of these women, I thought. I negative feelings.” an attitude—a willingness to be ought to ask them to pray for me— Another asked, “Give them a good open and real to anyone who needs but I can’t. me or with whom I am sharing my We had been taught when we life on an ongoing basis. Transparen­ were young ministers never to reveal cy is a means of building bridges our own personal struggles and prob­ across the river of isolation and in­ lems to our flock. “If you use yourself dependence. As I became real, I as an example, always use the third found that my relationships with person. The people you are minis­ women in the church changed. In­ tering to should never be brought stead of relating as pastor’s wife to into your personal lives.” I didn’t re­ church member, we related as friend member who said it, but the con­ to friend. $

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 33 The Hang~up of Realism (Continued from page 31) precious seed, shall doubtless come Twelve again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him” (Ps. 126:6, KJV, italics added). “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall Basketfuls ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you” (John 15:7, KJV). The first item of business for one by Margie L. Stewart impaled on the hang up of realism is Raleigh, N.C. to get “unhooked.” Ask God to re­ lease you from this hindrance and to t’s exciting to go overseas with er was a barbecue for Friday night. open your eyes to the possibilities. Work and Witness teams, I have We would bring the chicken, and Ask Him to show you where you been told. I’ve seen the slides, the church would furnish the rest of might adjust in order to more ade­ Iheard the remarkable stories, andthe food. “Plan for 25 people,” the quately lead your people. It may be noticed changes in the team mem­ pastor’s wife told us. So, I brought that your administration is too au­ bers’ lives. It’s not always possible 12 chickens. thoritarian. Your preaching may be for some of us to go on such exten­ We prepared the chickens, cutting less than it should be. When ana­ sive trips. Working on home mission them into fourths. Soon, a mouth­ lyzed, you may discover you are only projects can also be exciting and re­ watering aroma floated through the giving chaff to your people rather warding. It can certainly give you a air greeting the chill of the night, than whole grain. And they are starv­ big boost and bring other surprises, teasing our appetites. ing. Perhaps this is why they are as we discovered on a recent trip to The people came. And more peo­ complaining. Dorris, Calif. ple came. I began to wonder if we’d You may not have learned how to Many of us had never heard of have enough chicken to feed them. be a good listener. Some preachers Dorris. It’s a tiny town located near We counted about 35. We’re not go­ seem to love to hear what they have the Oregon border. It has no large ing to have enough, I thought as we to say, giving little attention to what shopping centers or big office build­ continued to prepare the chicken for others are saying. Verbosity is not a ings. But we found other treasures: a the grill. We said nothing to the other virtue, but it may be a bad habit. It lovely church building partially fin­ church except in teasing. “We’ve got is an art to learn how to be concise ished and a small group of big- the whole town’s attention.” without being abrupt. A bit of verse hearted, loving people. The scenery The food was blessed, and blessed may enhance the point: is awesome. One instantly notices it was. The chicken was scrump­ A wise old owl sat on an oak, the gorgeous, breathtaking, snow- tious. The church dishes were filled The more he saw the less he spoke; covered view of Mount Shasta. The with crunchy vegetables, cool and The less he spoke the more he church property offers a perfect crisp salads, and delicious desserts. heard; view of this mighty spectacle. Soon it was time for cleanup and Why aren’t we like that wise old The pastor who had retired earlier gathering up the food. To our bird? is back in the church working many amazement, there were “twelve bas­ —Edward Hersey Richards hours each day on the church, paint­ ketfuls” of chicken left over, enough Many pastors suddenly find a new ing, hammering, doing whatever he to feed another 19 hungry people freedom in their ministry when they can, mostly by himself. for lunch the next day, and still begin to see beyond what is apparent. Two Work and Witness teams from some left (cf. Matt. 14:20). We were Every great project that has come to our church in Auburn, Calif., went astonished—and to think I was wor­ fruition has first been someone’s vi­ to Dorris. There were 11 men and 2 ried about it! sion or imagination. Great churches women. We were the first ladies to We quickly learned to love this lit­ are the result of a spiritual architect, come, the pastor’s wife told us. She tle group of people. They were so touched by the Holy Spirit, a pastor- was thrilled to see us. The men hung grateful for what we had done. It shepherd who has been freed from Sheetrock. Although we didn’t paint meant so much to them. I felt I had prejudices, and who keeps in touch or climb up on the scaffold, we kept given little, but I felt I had received with the God of miracles. busy preparing meals, taking cold much more than I had given through May each of us ask the Lord to re­ cups of water to the men, helping their gratitude and love. new our vision, to forgive us for our the pastor’s wife, and snapping pic­ Time to go. Wearily, we climbed fears, and to give us the wisdom to tures. into our vehicles. My soul was re­ put together a formula for our church Being there, supporting our hus­ freshed and lifted. As I gazed once that will turn it from mediocrity to a bands and friends, made such a dif­ again upon Mount Shasta, I was re­ dynamic force for good. “We look ference. We enjoyed the fellowship minded of God’s great power and not at the things which are seen, but with each other, getting to know our majesty. I thanked Him for our new at the things which are not seen: for group better as well as getting ac­ friends, for His strength and protec­ the things which are seen are tempo­ quainted with our new friends at tion. I especially thanked Him for ral; but the things which are not seen Dorris. our “twelve basketfuls” of blessings. are eternal” (2 Cor. 4:18, KJV). $ The big thing we planned togeth­

34 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE The Blessings of Obedience by Debbi L. White Exmore, Va.

Our church consists mainly of compared to our rural area: muse­ Many of you responded to the older folks. My attempts to befriend ums, libraries, factories for field desperate cry of a pastor's wife pub­ other young moms in our area were trips, a zoo. Our church wasn’t grow­ lished in our Dec./Jan./Feb. 1990- unfruitful. Many of them work, and 91 issue. ing, and I felt I was dying spiritually. You may be interested in the fol­ others are attached to extended fam­ After being here for four years, I was lowing article, written by the same ilies who live nearby. They have no convinced that we should move. I woman, as she shares the wonderful need for outside relationships. urged my husband to look for a “nor­ results of your sharing and prayers. The second year we were here, a mal” job, in my hometown, of fall caused my younger daughter a course. brief hospital stay Following this, During the pastoral recall vote, I August 4, 1991 we saw our desperate need for medi­ voted “no.” It was the only negative Dear Mr. Denny: cal insurance. Expenses were grow­ vote that my husband got. Our un­ Thank you so much for printing ing, but our income wasn’t. My hus­ suspecting congregation couldn’t my letter last December 1990, and band picked up two part-time jobs understand who would vote against for writing a follow-up article this to help us make ends meet. With him. I couldn’t understand why God summer 1991. Your concern and him gone six and seven days a week, might ask me to stay another year. the response of your readers has my loneliness increased. Then one man in our church in­ been a great blessing to me. I have I served as director of the “mis­ vited an ordained couple to hold a come to love and appreciate Cindy sionary society” at church for a weekend revival for us. I thought it Osso (assistant editor). As a new while but gave up after several out­ would be a waste of their time, as pen pal and friend, she has become reach programs failed. I was also dis­ our people had had the same testi­ a wonderful encouragement. May couraged from inviting missionary mony for the past four and a half God continue to bless and use you. speakers, as the older folks thought years that we’d been here. I was cer­ In Him, that we were expecting too much tain that no visitors would attend. Mrs. Debbi L. White from their limited incomes. That Sunday morning last October About this time, God showed us (1990), the Mrs. Reverend spoke on After growing up in an East Coast that we were to teach our older obedience. God spoke through her city, I found living in the Midwest daughter at home. We knew of no directly to me: “Will you serve Me quite an adjustment. My husband others in the area that were home wherever I ask you to? Will you stay and I lived there for four years as we schooling, and it was a new concept here, even if it means being lonely finished college and then served as to our church people. This served to and living in that old house? Will an assistant pastor in a large and alienate me further. you support your husband in the growing church. When the invita­ During the third year, our little ministry and be content?” Tears fell tion came to pastor a small church old house began showing its age. as I counted the cost of obedience, only 70 miles from my hometown, I The roof leaked, shutters broke off, but I couldn’t say no to Jesus. was exuberant. and holes here and there allowed I believe I was the only one at the The months following our move various creatures in. Our daughters altar that morning. As I knelt there, were a whirlwind of excitement as I dubbed this “The Bug House.” I be­ God showed me things in my heart decorated our little home, became came increasingly discontent. that were displeasing to Him: envy, acquainted with our new congrega­ I met some other home schooling anger, bitterness, discontent. I had tion, and welcomed our second families in my old hometown. I thought my desires had been nor­ daughter into the world. However, longed to be able to fellowship with mal, but in my selfishness I had when things settled down, lone­ them more often. I started noticing overlooked God’s will. After I found liness settled in. the advantages to living in that city His forgiveness, I stood and con­

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 35 fessed to our people. 1 promised to from any accountability! Another people who didn’t even know me be content in His will, and to stay as wonderful blessing. had prayed for me daily. I thanked long as He asked. All I wanted in re­ About that same time, our group God that He had begun to answer turn was to be used by Him. of home schooling families met to prayer even before the prayers were In the days that followed, I felt get organized and set up a board. I made. Several ministers gave prac­ emotionally drained. I was emptied was elected director and became re­ tical advice about how I could get of self and very humbled. I was un­ sponsible for putting together a involved with our congregation. prepared for the blessings that God monthly newsletter. This became a Through these letters, I felt en­ had in store. great outlet and an area of ministry veloped in God’s arms of love. Later that month, I had a Tupper- for me. We started with about 20 Our roof still leaks, the shutters ware party. A fellow home school­ subscribers last November and cur­ are still broken, we still have bugs, ing mom drove several miles to at­ rently have over 60! Also, this fall, at my husband still works two side tend. She brought another young least three other families in our jobs, and finances are still tight. But mom from nearby whom she wanted county will begin teaching their I am rich in God’s blessings, and I me to meet. Pat and I hit it off children at home, including Pat and have the peace that comes only from right away and became fast friends. her family. This has been another being in the center of His will. Two She became a prayer partner and an blessing to me. weeks ago, my daughters and I made inspiration. How thankful I am for Over a year and a half ago, before muffins and biscuits and took them her! I allowed God to work in my life, to some of our older folks. Most of Our state has a “religious exemp­ and when I was desperately lonely them gave my girls a little some­ tion” clause for home schoolers. and discouraged, I wrote to The thing in return. We have two new However, our local school board was Preacher’s Magazine for advice. ladies in our church who were re­ unfamiliar with it (we were the only Last December I was notified that cently saved. And when our younger home schooling family in this my letter had been printed and that daughter celebrated her fifth birth­ county), and they asked that certain many letters and a check had been day, three folks from our church met requirements be met. Those require­ received in response to it. The us at a fast-food restaurant with gifts ments violated our convictions and check was forwarded, and I was told and bought everyone ice cream. our constitutional rights. After that a follow-up article would be God reminds me of all that I much prayer, and with the help of written. Again, I was greatly blessed. would have missed if we had moved our Christian attorney, the school When I read the follow-up article last year. I cannot thank Him enough board acknowledged the law and this summer, I was amazed by the for all the blessings that He has our convictions. We became exempt love expressed. I was touched that given in return for my obedience. $

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36 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE Theology

“written-down” church memberships did not ob­ tain in New Testament times. The membership of the church seems to have extended simply to all who had received Christ as Lord and Savior. Still another scriptural support of open Communion is the Bible’s in­ clusiveness assumed from its empha­ sis upon love for others. If we love tendance and giv­ others, as we are exhorted to do, it ing, are deemed may be assumed that we are not to active and in good exclude them from the Lord’s table standing in the group. if they imply or state that they too Many Protestant de­ are Christians. nominations practice open Open Communion also has theo­ Communion, including vari­ logical support. One of these is the ous Methodistic ones. Open understanding that we are members Communion adherents tend of the Body of Christ, the “called . . . to interpret the 1 Cor. 11:27 out” ones, “a people for God’s own passage similarly to the way possession” (1 Pet. 2:9, NASB), if we in which John Wesley are Christian believers. And this, viewed it. He pointed out that whether or not we are church mem­ n our Methodistic tradition, we “eating and drinking unworthily” bers in good standing according to a holiness people practice open should be interpreted in light of the given group’s expectations. As Communion: any Christian is immediate context, according to Christians, we may sit with fellow Iinvited to the Lord’s table. which some people at Corinth were believers at the Lord’s table. In many denominations, however, partaking of Communion while they Another theological support for “closed” Communion is practiced: were drunk; and some, while they open Communion is in the fact that only members in good standing are were refusing to share their food Christ instituted the Lord’s Supper to participate. Many Baptist and Lu­ with persons present who had not prior to the founding of the Church theran denominations close their had food to bring to the common at Pentecost. So, to be a member of a Communion to nonmembers, as do meal that accompanied Communion given group, in the ecclesiastical Reformed Presbyterians, United Pres­ (see w. 17-22). sense of church membership, is not byterians, and others. A number of Scripture passages necessary in order to partake of Scripture used to support closed seem to support our Methodistic Communion. Communion includes especially practice of open Communion. One, Besides biblical and theological Paul’s saying, “Therefore, whoever “I have other sheep that are not of supports for open Communion, eats the bread or drinks the cup of this sheep pen” (John 10:16). This there is historical support. Certain the Lord in an unworthy manner will suggests that outside of a given fold Christian traditions have practiced be guilty of sinning against the body or group God has other people who open Communion, and this becomes and blood of the Lord” (1 Cor. are also His “sheep.” Another, “Whoev­ a kind of support for it. The Meth­ 11:27). It is felt that the best way to er is not against you is for you” (Luke odistic tradition, stemming out of assure that the communicants are re­ 9:50). Here, the person of a different John Wesley and early Methodism, ceiving the bread and wine “in a group is not pitted against Christ has customarily practiced open worthy manner” is to serve it only to but is a worker on Christ’s behalf. Communion. When longtime and members, and even to the members Another scriptural support for many-membered traditions support who, by such measurements as at­ open Communion is in the fact that (Continued on page 46)

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 37 Church Growth Turning the Small Church Around by Kim L. Richardson Framingham, Mass.

ou have been called to a Walrath argues that even when the for spiritual growth within their small church. You can’t context dictates change, the small membership; but changing to grow wait to make a difference church will tend to follow old pat­ —just to get new members—will for God. The church’s leaders terns.3told probably be resisted. you that they want their church toSmall churches tend to emphasize Ygrow. You want the church to grow. values and qualities that have 2. WORSHIP You know that God wants the worked in the past. The church be­ Worship is central in the small church to grow. But where do you comes a carrier of culture and his­ church. Being together is more im­ start? tory that gives meaning and stability portant than who speaks or sings. Whether your first, second, or sev­ to young and old. Members have a Participation is more important than enth pastorate, you find yourself in a great sense of security when they professionalism. Little Susie can “small church.” It is now well docu­ gather together with those who make lots of mistakes on her piano mented that 50 percent of America’s share common values and life ex­ offertory, but no one will care. Susie Protestant churches have less than periences. “The church building is will get lots of love and affirmation 75 people in average morning wor­ often seen as an anchor of commu­ simply because, “She’s our Susie.” ship attendance. Twenty-five per­ nity feelings, a symbol of stability in There is no such thing as slipping cent of all Protestant churches have the midst of change.”4 into the worship service, sitting to­ less than 35 in morning worship.1 Even though small churches tend ward the back, enjoying the service, Many of these small churches are to be slow to change, they do have and then leaving. Nor is it possible not growing. the ability to change rapidly when to miss without being missed. While The following generalizations of a necessary. A small ship can turn “large church” members tend to small church need to be analyzed in quickly. There is no need for plan­ count empty pews, “small church” each local situation. Most churches ning committees and elaborate pre­ members count faces, and they ex­ under 75—and many over 75—will sentations. An informal meeting at pect yours to be present. Sixty per­ exhibit the majority of these charac­ the parsonage or at a layman’s home cent or more of the pews can be teristics. have the potential to bring swift ac­ empty without any concern unless a tion. This type of quick decision familiar face is missing. This builds 1. CHANGE/STABILITY would normally be tied to preserv­ in a high level of accountability to­ “Small churches are not against ing their culture, maintaining their ward existing members but shows a change. They simply feel that con­ building, or something else viewed lack of evangelistic fervor. serving the past has a priority.”2 as extremely consistent with who 3. EVANGELISM they have been and who they are. Hunter argues that “small church Most people tend to resist change members are not socially aggressive initially. John Maxwell argues that people. . . . This may be part of the the less success being experienced, reason only a maximum of six or the more likely that group will hold seven families can be adopted into to what it is already doing.5 Since the typical small church in any small churches tend to measure suc­ given year.”6 By adoption, we mean cess by how well members are do­ far more than accepting the Lord or ing, they may be open to new ideas even officially joining the church. It

38 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE is learning and identifying with the to pay anyone. If no skilled persons pastor. They want to know the pastor history, traditions, and “family se­ are available within the congrega­ more as a person than as a profes­ crets” of the congregation. It is ac­ tion, the work often waits. sional. cepting the culture of the church as However, many “small church” 7. SUPPORT well as the Lord of the church. members will draw the line be- If someone is in crisis or if the This high level of identification church is in crisis, everyone re­ with the total church culture lim­ sponds. There is no need to have a its the number of “doors” into the social action committee or special church. Dudley notes, “Larger church­ Small churches fund-raising banquet. If the need is es attract and assimilate members can change rapidly perceived as genuine, members and through several small units that are friends of the church will be there ‘hungry’ for members to share a when necessary to help meet that need. Attempts to common task. . . . Dividing is one organize in advance are often activity that the single-cell church deemed unnecessary, and proof is refuses to do. . . . Growth by divi­ then cited: “Didn’t we help Joe sion is subversive to the essential tween lay ministry and lay pastoring. when he had that need?” The answer satisfactions of belonging to the In my present church, I taught about is, “Yes.” However, in every or­ whole church.”7 The committed Jethro’s advice to Moses (Exodus ganization, including the local “small church” member does want 18) and showed how we already di­ church, there are core members and the church to grow, but he also vide ministry responsibility by age- peripheral members. My experience wants to maintain the culture of the group (children/youth/adult) and indicates that core people are more church. When the two lock horns, task area (Sunday School/missions/ than amply cared for in times of church culture usually wins, and church facilities/etc.). When I ap­ need. But this is not always the case evangelism loses. plied this principle to developing for peripheral people. Support only 4. LAY LEADERSHIP lay pastors with only crisis situ­ extends so far, and only those in the People who would not rise as ations coming to me, many people inner circle can be assured of it. As leaders in larger churches often find were upset. They wanted the pastor pastor, you might wonder if you are themselves in key positions in the when there was a need for pastoral in the inner circle. The answer is small church. “Bloodlines can be care. Some interpreted this to mean probably, “Yes” and “No.” Schaller very influential in selecting lead­ that I, the pastor, did not care. says, “The small membership church ers ”K Normally, one extended family 6. PASTORAL CARE does not provide a strong support or “church boss” will control the The small church is a one-person for the minister. . . . The people feel process of leadership selection. This church. Everyone wants the atten­ free and sometimes obligated to family or individual may be deeply tion of the one person, the pastor. check up on the minister, but not committed or terribly carnal. Some­ Small church members want a shep­ necessarily in a supportive man­ times the true leader will not sur­ herd. They want a pastor who will ner.”10 I have experienced some of face until challenged by change. care for the flock first and be con­ what Schaller suggests, but primar­ These persons who once appeared cerned about those outside the ily I have found people wanting to to be apathetic may have “remark­ flock later. This does not encourage bring me into the inner circle. able energy for maintaining the sta­ evangelism and growth. In times of 8. MORALE tus quo.”9 need, they expect the pastor to give The Bible says, “Where there is no Everyday decisions tend to be comfort or guidance. Others can vision, the people perish” (Prov. made by consensus, not by formal bring in meals and help with family 29:18, KJV). Most small churches committees. Everyone’s opinion is have been small for a long time. Mo­ heard, and a strong sense of be­ rale is low, money is tight, and vi­ longing develops. Crisis decisions For the small sion is something for dreamers. are different. Everyone may or may I planted a church in a “not so not be asked. In either situation, nice” Veterans of Foreign Wars hall members are looking toward the church the concept with 20 to 40 people present each church boss for their cue. Sunday; but, we had hope. Then I Determining who this church of the "family" is went to serve a church with 50 years boss is and guiding this person into of tradition that averaged about 75 a growth-oriented mind set is vital both its greatest in worship. The predominant two for any growth-oriented pastor. characteristics of that church were 5. LAY MINISTRY strength and its debt and depression. Laymen are deeply involved in the Why did the smaller group have life of the church. Maintaining the greatest weakness hope while the larger group was de­ church building and the existing pressed? The newly planted church program normally take precedence expected to grow and develop. The over outreach. Work on the facility matters, but the pastor is expected established church was trying to sur­ is rarely given to a contractor. The to be close to listen and pray. Small vive and could not see an escape laymen typically do it themselves church attenders normally desire to from its predicament. and are proud that they don’t need have a close relationship with the You may find people who love

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 39 each other and enjoy the church but with the whole church is a big fac­ Genesis 16 illustrates this truth who have no hope for growth. They tor. even better. Sarai (the small church gave up long ago. Your small church will tell you member) pleads with Abram (the 9. INTIMACY/FAMILY that it wants to grow. The people pastor) to seek out new members The most important characteristic will not say that they want intimacy (Hagar). Abram agrees. Through of the small church, the concept of Hagar, the church begins to grow the “family,” is at the heart of what it (she becomes pregnant). Hagar gets means to be a small church. This is all excited (even a little self-righ­ both its greatest strength and its The small church teous, wondering why Sarai was not greatest weakness. Various authors an effective evangelist), but Sarai have called the small church a fam­ is a one-person does n o t rejoice. Sarai is threatened ily church, a single cell, or a pri­ and uses her longtime relationship mary group. church—everyone in the “family” to come between Dudley writes, “In a primary Abram (pastor) and Hagar (new group, members are united by com­ wants the attention member). Abram is greatly disap­ mon interests, beliefs, tasks and ter­ pointed, but Hagar drifts away, leav­ ritory. They are not self-conscious of the one person ing Abram and Sarai to enjoy their about their relationship and are restored intimacy. bound together more by sentimental The small church member does ties than by contractual agreements. more than growth. Few would real­ want growth, but not at the expense They have a solidarity, a feeling of ize that it is true, but two illustra­ of intimacy. Any strategy for growth belonging, nourished by experiences tions show what we face as pastoral must be aware of this vital truth. of intimacy and personal need.”11 He leaders. One is from my family, and We all want families in which we goes on to show the small church as the second is from Scripture. are loved and supported. In today’s such a primary group. “Not all the My parents are still living, and I society the church often becomes members can know all the others on have four brothers. We are all mar­ this caring family. Dudley may be a continuing, face to face basis, but ried with children— 10 children in overly sentimental with the words they can all know about one an­ all. That means 22 of us can gather that follow, but all of us who seek to other. They expect to be able to for family events and have a great be evangelistically effective by help­ ‘place’ everyone physically and so­ time. ing small churches turn around can cially in the fabric of the congrega­ Visitors sometimes join us at our learn from and build upon the char­ tion. The caring cell church may be reunions. We tell them to make acteristics of the small church. defined as a primary group in which themselves at home, but we don’t re­ In a big world, the small church the members expect to know, or ally mean it. After we eat, talk, joke, has rem ained intim ate. In a fast know about, all other members.”12 play games, watch television, raid world, the small church has been Because the small church func­ the fridge again, and lounge awhile steady. In an expensive world, the tions as a primary group, a high pri­ longer, we expect our guests to go small church has remained plain. ority is placed on relationships. home. We welcomed them, included In a complex world, the small Genuine caring does take place, b u t them, and fed them all day long. But church has remained simple. In a it is hard to enter this one big, happy they should know enough not to rational world, the small church family. overstay their welcome. has kept feelings. In a mobile We can compare this problem to a While this may be appropriate be­ world, the small church has been teenager at a new high school where havior for a nuclear family, it is not an anchor. In an anonymous the cliques are already established. appropriate for a church family. Es­ world, the small church calls me The new teen walks in with fear and tablished members of the small by name. ... As a result, small trembling, hoping that he will not church have very similar feelings churches have survived where receive too m uch attention, yet want­ others have failed.13 J ing to be accepted. The teen does re­ 1. Lyle E. Schaller, The Small Church Is Differ­ ceive polite hellos, even welcomes e n t! (Nashville: Abingdon, 1983), 11. and introductions, but no one really Most small 2. Carl S. Dudley, M aking the S m a ll Church Ef­ fe c tive (Nashville: Abingdon, 1978), 75. invites him into their group. 3. Carl S. Dudley and Douglas Alan Walrath, De­ This often happens in a friendly, churches have veloping Your Small Church’s Potential (Valley caring small church. Normally it is Forge, Pa.:Judson Press, 1988), 18. been small for a 4. Ibid., 57. unconsciously done. Members are so 5. John C. Maxwell, Injoy Life Club Tape: busy caring for and sharing with one “Growth = Change.” another that they neglect to see how long time 6. Dudley, Making the Small Church Effective, 51. they are excluding the newcomer 7. Ibid., 52. from their circle. The fear of losing 8. Schaller, The Small Church Is Different! 21. intimacy keeps many churches when new people begin to attend 9. Dudley, Making the Small Church Effective, 7 0 -7 1 . small. Most of our people do not un­ and stay long enough to make in­ 10. Schaller, The Small Church Is Different! 54. derstand why they are quick to say, roads into the “family.” They wonder 11. Dudley, Making the Small Church Effective, 32. “Welcome,” but slow to truly wel­ why the new person is staying 12. Ibid., 34. come. The fear of losing intimacy around. 13 Ibid., 176.

40 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE A PRAYER

by Michael Roderick Dunbar; WVa.

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JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 41 Church Administration

Leadership Needed

by Neil Hightower Calgary, Alta.

eadership, the painting of vi­ sanctified ambition. He needs intel­ find their traditions, customs, skills, sions and the harnessing of ligent self-discipline, creative ini­ and perhaps even their sense of self­ f energies, represents one of tiative, acceptance of authority, the esteem challenged by the change.”1 L The leader drains the terror from the great needs in today’s society.art of controlled delegation, and in­ Laying aside smugness, we acknowl­ formed decisiveness.2 change. He does this because he fo­ edge a leadership crisis in the Considering practices and style, cuses on people, not on organiza­ church. leaders understand the power and tional ends. We have leaders among us, but we the importance of relationships. Since discontent affects change, have fewer than we need. Lead­ Leaders know that the particular the leader invests discontent into ership, exercised through both cler­ mix of people in a group is impor­ the problem-solving process. Other­ gy and laity, is crucial to our spiri­ tant in creating and nurturing rela­ wise, discontent creates conflict. tual task. tionships in the work of the Body of The leader transforms discontent The church has been influenced Christ. A leader pays attention to the into the energy for affecting change by the managerial mode of modern gifting by the Spirit evidenced in but refuses to let it become the en­ corporate structure. This is not all gathering people. A leader under­ gine. The engine is to be empow­ bad because the ability to marshal stands the church as primarily an or­ ered by God’s will, the scriptural and mold people into accom­ ganism instead of an organization. standards of Christian relationships. plishing certain goals is valuable A leader deciphers the dynamics We need leaders today— leaders and needed. That is one of the clas­ of motivation. The leader sees peo­ who have vision and courage to sic definitions of the work of a man­ ple as ends in themselves. A manager keep the church targeted on Christ’s ager. However, the church requires views people as tools for reaching Great Commission. Christian leaders leadership— leadership that con­ goals. The leader understands the willingly risk their reputations by centrates upon people more than social processes of recognition and going against the grain of our “con- structural goals. Leadership deals the feeling of importance inherent nectional” systems. A “connectional with personality and relationships. in motivation. He understands that system,” emphasizing structure, Dennis Johnson wrote in the Preach­ motivation is primarily an emotional tends to foster the management er’s Magazine: “Management is process, not a logical one. However, mold. However, a true leadership something a man does, while lead­ the leader won’t exercise his under­ model understands that either the ership is ultim ately what a man is.”1 standing in a manipulative way. He leader or the managerial model has An effective leader has certain knows that motivated people con­ dangers to be avoided. The weakness traits. Chief among them is pre­ nect their personal goals with group of the management model is to make vailing faith. Paul highlights this goals because of treasured relation­ people merely tools for reaching quality in Eph. 6:18. Ted Engstrom ships, not because of psychological goals. The danger of the leadership pointed out in The Making of a manipulation. model is mere “good feeling” with­ Christian Leader: a leader needs a The leader understands that effec­ out the challenge of specific results. life balanced between work, family, tive group action involves change. Emphasis upon relationships may and avocational interests. A leader He must understand the nature and tend to obscure the universal re­ needs a strong sense of direction or dynamics of change. The leader sponsibility of the w hole church for knows that the church cannot swim ministry. Key figures in relationships against the tide of a rapidly chang­ may tend to dominate. Leaders must ing world in organizational matters. be sensitive to people but domi­ The leader also understands the real­ nated by none, including being ity of resistance to change within dominated by their own egos. human personality and the resulting Finally, leaders focus on results conflict that arises from change. rather than efforts. Peter Drucker re­ Many people in our churches feel minds us that “the man who focuses traumatized by change. Lyle Schaller on efforts and who stresses his says in The Change Agent, “They (Continued on page 46)

42 THE PREACHERS MAGAZINE Stewardship ______i The Preretirement Years: Health Care Planning by Gary B. Morsch, M.D., M.P.H. Physician, Olathe, Kans.

ost retirement planning fo­ blood pressure, strokes, diabetes, pressure, heart disease, depression, cuses on financial re­ diverticulosis, ulcers, and cancers of stress, obesity, diabetes, and even sources. Important also is the colon, breast, prostate, and certain cancers! Mthe imperative that you have auterus. plan All of these illnesses can be How much exercise is good for for the preservation of your health reduced, and often completely pre­ you? You do not have to be an Olym­ as well as a plan for the provision of vented, by diet alone. pic champion to benefit from exer­ health care services. This essential Following a proper diet does not cise. As little as 30 minutes of aero­ planning should begin in the pre­ have to be a complex task. A few bic exercise three times per week retirement years. simple guidelines provide the basic can keep you fit! The type of exer­ The Preservation of Health foundation of a healthy diet. Al­ cise is essential— it should be aero­ though thousands of diets are avail­ bic: walking, running, jogging, swim­ One of the greatest trends of this able, most of them fall into the fol­ ming, rowing, calisthenics, and cy­ decade has been the “wellness lowing concept: eat less animal cling are all excellent types of aero­ movement.” More than ever people products and more plant foods. bic exercise. It is very important to choose to become well and stay Animal products include meats, develop patterns of activity now well. dairy products, and eggs. Plants in­ that will carry over into the retire­ A common attitude I encounter in clude fruits, vegetables, and grains. ment years. If you are still not con­ persons nearing retirement springs Since cholesterol is found only in vinced, consider this: I believe the from the misconception that “it’s animal products, a diet low in ani­ Bible challenges us to be physically too late to do anything about my mal products reduces your choles­ fit! Scripture says, “For God has health.” terol. On the other hand, fiber is bought you with a great price. So Fortunately, this idea proves un­ found only in plants; thus, a high fi­ use every part of your body to give true. It is never too late! You can ber diet is simply a diet high in glory back to God, because he owns achieve your highest level of well­ plant foods. In addition, a proper it” (1 Cor. 6:20, TLB). ness possible no matter what your diet should limit salt, sugars and current level of health. Wellness sweets, and caffeine. Our motivation Attitude does not mean the attainment of for eating properly goes beyond Research shows the powerful link perfect health, but rather the pro­ health, however. Scripture teaches between the mind and our health. cess of maximizing your health po­ that we become faithful stewards of Not only are you what you eat, but tential. Whether enjoying perfect our health, even in the area of nutri­ equally true is the statement, “You health or living with chronic dis­ tion: “So whether you eat or drink or are what you think.” The scripture ease, you can achieve a higher level whatever you do, do it all for the makes this clear: “A cheerful heart is of wellness that will make retire­ glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31). good medicine, but a crushed spirit ment years the best of your life. dries up the bones” (Prov. 17:22). Choosing a healthier life-style pre­ Exercise A new area of scientific study, psy­ pares you for a retirement that is My father once asked, “What is choneuroimmunology, proves the productive, joyful, and meaningful. the most important thing I should power of positive thinking as well as Let’s look at some of the com­ be doing to stay healthy?” demonstrating the harmful effects of ponents of a “wellness life-style.” Without hesitation I replied, “Ex­ a negative attitude. In fact, studies Nutrition ercise!” show that the body’s immune sys­ Almost daily, new research con­ tem, responsible for fighting off in­ The statement that “you are what firms that there are few things as im­ fections and disease, is strengthened you eat” has never been more true. portant to health as exercise. by a positive attitude. Negative atti­ Scientific research proves the pro­ Of all the life-style behaviors we tudes weaken the immune system, found effect of nutrition on health adopt, exercise remains one of the which may contribute to numerous and well-being. most important. Exercise exerts a diseases, including heart disease, Poor nutritional habits are linked multitude of positive effects on the high blood pressure, ulcers, head­ to a variety of diseases including body and can reduce or prevent aches, back pain, and cancer. heart disease and heart attacks, high many diseases, including high blood (Continued on page 46)

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 43 Pastoral Care

Helping Families Survive Stillbirth Providing Pastoral Care When Nothing Feels Real Except the Pain

by Victor M. Parachin Elk Grove, III.

hen Ann, the happy moth­ Whenever a baby is born dead, by family and close friends. er of two children, learned nothing feels real except for the Generally most Protestant and she was pregnant again, pain. In spite of their shock, couples Catholic clergy will accommodate W she was ecstatic. For nine monthsinevitably seek out aid from their the family wishes on a funeral rite. she carried her child, experiencing clergy. Here are suggestions for However, because Judaism does not the various stages of her baby’s helping a couple who have experi­ recognize a baby until after it is one growth and development. Every­ enced stillbirth heal from the hurt. month old, no formal ceremony is thing was normal and proceeding on 1. Encourage a viewing of the currently available. schedule. baby. While this is clearly an indi­ The value of a funeral service for Late in her ninth month she went vidual decision that each mother the family is that it brings their grief into labor. A friend came to look af­ and each couple must decide, those out into the open, facilitates sup­ ter her two children while Ann and who have held and viewed their port from others, and establishes the her husband quickly drove off to the child felt it to be therapeutic. Here baby as an individual who had a life hospital. The couple was sent di­ is one m other’s expression: and was part of a family. rectly into the delivery room. Their My husband said we had a girl, Sharon, whose baby died in her physician estimated that the baby and she was truly beautiful. He eighth month of pregnancy, says the would arrive in less than an hour. encouraged me to see her and of­ funeral ritual was “extremely” im­ Shortly after his announcement, fered to bring our baby into the portant: the fetal monitor wrapped around room. She was all wrapped up in a We called our minister and her abdomen showed that the baby’s blanket like any other baby. He asked for a simple graveside ser­ heart abruptly stopped. “Suddenly, placed her into my arms, and I vice. He admitted he had never the entire atmosphere became touched her. She was both beau­ done a funeral for a stillborn but charged with tension and anxiety,” tiful and perfect. I’m glad that I readily agreed. The day itself was her husband later recalled. “I was saw her and held her. That mo­ beautiful— bright and sunny. We ushered out as other nurses and doc­ ment formed some closure for me. were surrounded by our parents, tors were rushed in.” University of Nebraska professor extended family, close friends, as An emergency Caesarean section John DeFrain has spent 10 years well as our pastor. Although I was done in order to rescue the studying and researching how fami­ cried through much of the cere­ baby. Despite the best efforts of the lies cope with the death of an infant. mony, I felt much, much better for medical professionals the baby was In his recent book, Stillborn: The the tears and for the service. stillborn. Invisible Death, he reports high- When it was over, every single Although in shock, the father level satisfaction from parents who person there reached out and em­ called me because I was their minis­ viewed their infant, while those braced me tightly. I felt a lot of ter. 1 will never forget the moment I who did not expressed regrets: hope. As a result I strongly recom­ walked into their hospital room and We asked the parents in our mend that anyone who has a still­ saw Ann holding her daughter. A study if they saw their baby, and birth go ahead and have a simple perfectly and completely developed slightly more than half had. Every service of some kind. little girl. “She was strangled by her one of these parents was very glad 3. Promote talking and expres­ own umbilical cord,” Ann said with to have done so. Most of the par­ sion o f feelings. Communication is tears streaming down her face. ents who had not seen the baby of utmost importance for a healthy In spite of tremendous medical wished they had. adjustment to the crisis of stillbirth. advances throughout this century, 2. Have a funeral service. W hile Here is a glowing tribute one infants still die. Statistically, there is our society currently does not have woman paid to her supportive pas­ one stillbirth (defined as the death agreement on an appropriate ritual tor after she lost a baby: of a fetus between the 20th week of for the situation of stillbirth, more Talking was the only way I pregnancy and birth) for every 80 and more couples are opting for a could deal with my anguish. live births. Often the cause of death funeral service. Often these are Thank God for my pastor who al­ is completely unknown. smaller, private rites attended only lowed me to talk and talk. I’m cer-

44 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE tain he must have found me ex­ silent partner in grief. Because the would ever interrupt me and say: tremely repetitious, yet he never woman carries the child, she re­ “Don’t you think you should be stopped me nor judged me for ceives most of the support. Yet, the over this by now!” Those who anything I said or felt. Talking and lost child is as much the father’s as have lost a baby understand in a sharing my feelings was pro­ the mother’s. David and Martha were way that others cannot. foundly therapeutic. It seemed expecting twins. One was stillborn, 8. Provide theological reflec­ that every time I told my story, a and the other died within two hours tion. The death of a child becomes, little bit of pain was peeled away. of the birth. for the couple, a profoundly painful Conversely, those who flounder Over the next few months family theological issue. One mother, and drift for years after a stillbirth and friends would often ask David, whose child died during labor, are those who were unable or pre­ “How is Martha doing?” asked me: “My little daughter didn’t vented from expressing their fear, Confiding in his pastor, David have a chance at life. No one will ever know her. She was so small, so anger, sadness, and many other emo­ said: “No one seems to be aware of vulnerable. Does God know or care tions connected to the death of a my pain. I am feeling more and more about my daughter?” child. One woman’s pain lasted far isolated with my feelings because people don’t think I feel any loss or Her comments were a 20th-centu­ too long, over two decades, and did ry version of the ancient Psalmist’s not subside until she found a sym­ grief over this.” 6. Recognize that grieving takes refrain: “When I look at thy heavens, pathetic listener: the work of thy fingers, the moon Twenty-three years have passed time. Each person and every couple grieves differently. There are no and the stars which thou hast estab­ since I lost my baby. Until last year lished; what is man that thou art I was not free to even discuss my clear turning points, nor are there deadlines that can be met. Fortu­ mindful of him, and the son of man little boy. My salvation came nately, we are created to recover and that thou dost care for him?” (8:3-4, through a new neighbor who had heal. One man said for himself and RSV). gone through an identical experi­ his wife: Sharing this helped her under­ ence. She initiated the conversa­ While we still have many bad stand she was not alone in question­ tion without knowing what I had days, both of us can see and feel ing whether or not God sees and been through. Finally, after all the occasional good day. It has cares. From there we were able to those years I am able to talk and been 11 months since we lost talk together about the fact of God’s now receive some comfort. Danny. As time passes, we seem to love, loyalty, and concern for the 4. Recommend activity. For many be doing better and are now be­ woman, her family, and her little people activity is an excellent cop­ ginning to look more optimistical­ daughter. I was also able to share my ing device. A consistent theme I ly toward the future. theological conviction that life pro­ hear from the bereaved in my sup­ 7. Suggest help. The death of a vides us with minimal protection, port groups is this sentence: “Keep­ child, even in the fetal stage, is one but God provides us with maximum ing busy really helps me.” By that, of the most difficult experiences a support in our pain. they mean getting involved in a job couple has to face. Normally the Finally, be mindful that the hu­ or a project because it is a gentle pain expends itself with the passing man spirit has a tremendous capac­ way of forcing oneself back into the of time. If this does not occur, then ity to heal from hurts, no matter mainstream of life. This was true for there are reasons to believe that the how deep and painful. Writer and Ellen, the mother of one school- natural course of mourning is not author Susie Blackmun’s first child aged child. When she became preg­ taking place. Signals that an individ­ died during labor. The baby had an- nant with her second child, she quit ual or couple may need more help encephaly, a defect in which the her job on a doctor’s recommenda­ include these: high-level denial, brain does not form properly. Ini­ tion. Unfortunately, her baby died in constant and repressive depression, tially devastated by the loss, she and the seventh month. Ellen says: ongoing sleep and eating problems, her husband recovered and now A good friend, a therapist, intense feelings of anger, guilt, have another child. Looking back on would let me come over to talk blame, and feeling worthless. it, she writes eloquently about that and cry. She was a very patient and An easy, inexpensive, and effec­ painful experience: considerate listener. My friend tive way to receive more help is to Losing a child has to be the pur­ urged me to go out and get a job, join a support group. Those who est form of hell that exists for a since my other child was in have experienced a stillbirth have parent, yet I would rather have school all day. I followed her ad­ found it extremely beneficial to talk been pregnant with Julia and lost vice and got a sales job in a retail with others who have lost a baby. her than never to have carried her store. That entry-level, minimum- This statement from one mother ex­ at all. She made her own mark in wage job became my lifeline. It plains why support groups are so my life and in the lives of my fam­ forced me to have a schedule, get therapeutic: ily and friends. During her brief up, and get dressed every day. I never will be able to take my foray into the world, my first That simple job took the edge off son to a ball game or playground, daughter contributed more than my depression and allowed me to but I can take him and my memo­ most people give in a lifetime. I begin recovering sooner. ries to my support group. There I am proud to be her mother.* $

5. Be sensitive to the father. Too can talk and cry and share broken 'Susie Blackmun, “A Stillborn’s Gift” in A m erican often the father is the forgotten or dreams openly. There no one B aby magazine (New York: Nov. 1988), 67.

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 45 Communion with the others. Note­ Communion (Continued from page 37) worthy is the fact that the gospel preached in the sermon is preached a given view, it constitutes a type of as who is in the apostolic succes­ to all present, and, of course, that support, although this is not sup­ sion, who may administer Commu­ gospel never excludes anyone. Yet port of a fundamental kind—as bib­ nion, and w ho may receive it. the Christian stranger within the lical and theological supports are. It is unfortunate, if not ridiculous, gates of these groups is excluded And besides biblical, theological, in a local church setting when a from the Communion with Christ and historical supports for open Christian stranger is prohibited from and with other Christians at that Communion, there is a practical sup­ receiving Communion with the reg­ blessed table. port for it. In a practical sense, it ap­ ular worshipers. The writer himself So the next time you administer proaches the ridiculous to exclude has been so excluded many times, Communion, Pastor, be thankful for fellow Christian believers from the especially when worshiping with and glory in your open Communion Communion with Christ and with Lutheran denominations while on heritage. If strangers are in your other believers that is enjoyed at the vacation. In such services the visitor midst who witness to being Chris­ Lord’s table. It approaches the ridic­ is welcomed, treated cordially, en­ tians, open the Lord’s table to them. ulous, from the practical standpoint, ters into the worship forms and the Open it to them wide, with hu­ because, when the World Council of hymns with the others, but is told by mility, but also with a quiet, un­ Churches has had its every-seventh- the ushers that he may not receive spoken, Christian hilarity. ^ year meetings, its ecumenicists have had to divide themselves into four separate groups for receiving Com­ (Continued from page 42) munion. Right while the leaders of Leadership Heeded some 300 denominations have downward authority is a subordinate formance of the entire church, not talked together and tried to practice no matter how exalted his title and to his special interest. It will cause Christian unity, they have been rank.”4 the leader to perceive “the unused forced to receive Communion in The leader who concentrates on potential in the job,”5 and that often separated groupings. They pray to­ results is one who asks the question, is found in the people with whom gether in these widely representa­ “What can I contribute to this or­ the leader works. Failure to ask the tive conferences, read Scripture to­ ganization that will make a differ­ “contribution” question suggests that gether, hear sermons and addresses ence in the outcome?” The question our aim is too low and that the wrong together, but cannot receive Com­ of personal contribution turns the objectives command our attention. munion together due to such matters leader’s concentration to the per- Leaders who ask the “contribu­ tion” question discover growth oc­ curring in three areas: direct per­ formance results; building of values Preretirement Years (Continued from page 43) and their reaffirmation; and devel­ oping people for tomorrow. We need The attitude you take toward re­ may consist of a physical exam, leaders to ask the “contribution” tirement years is vitally important prostate exam, Pap smear, blood question. Otherwise, followers will and depends on you! If you look for­ tests, X rays, sigmoidoscopy, EKG, never ask the question either. ward to retirement with optimism and treadmill tests, among other The church is called to build and purpose and goals, your health things. God’s kingdom, not its own. The ac­ tivities of preaching, teaching, and will reflect this. You will be much Conclusion more likely to find those years all nurturing point to that end. Great that you dreamed they could be! Good health and well-being are leaders find checks to building their very important, especially as one personal kingdoms by a willingness Preventive Health Care looks toward retirement years. Our to be led themselves. Leaders must In spite of the best efforts to lead health is a gift from God. We should humble themselves before Jesus and a healthy life-style, illnesses, often be careful stewards of that which listen daily for His instructions. serious, still occur. Since all disease has been given to us. The pre­ Leaders listen to hear Christ speak­ cannot be prevented, it is important retirement years can be a valuable ing through His followers. The de­ to detect serious illness as early as time of refocusing as we reexamine mocracy of God’s people tends to possible when the best chances for our priorities, our life-styles, and keep in check the dictatorship of treatment and cure exist. A rela­ our health behaviors. With a clear leaders. Godly leadership aims at tionship with a trusted family doc­ plan for preserving our health, as the glory of God. f tor or internist is important. Not well as a plan for the provision of 1. D e n n is J o h n s o n , The Preacher’s Magazine only will your doctor be available health care, we can look forward to M arch— May, 19 8 5 , 7. when early symptoms arise, but our retirement years with a positive 2. Ted W. E ngstrom , The Making o f a Christian attitude. We can, along with the Leader (Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, more importantly, your doctor can 1976), chap. 11, pp. 111-20. provide preventive health mainte­ apostle Paul, “confidently and joy­ . 3- Lyle E. Schaller, The Change Agent (Nashville: nance examinations on a regular ba­ fully look forward to actually be­ Abingdon Press, 1972), 36. 4. Peter F. Drucker, The Effective Executive (New sis. Depending on your health status coming all that God has had in mind York: Harper and Row Publishers, 1967), 53- and risk factors, this examination for us to be” (Rom. 5:2, TLB). $ 5. Ibid., 54.

46 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE Wesleyana Catholic Spirit

by John Wesley interpreted by Mark Royster Kenya, Africa

John Wesley’s 1750 sermon, con­ opinions? Perhaps he realized that ing and power; His justice, mercy, densed and paraphrased for con­ all men will never see all things and truth? Do you “walk by faith”? temporary readers. Albert C. Outler alike. Do you have evidence of His pres­ called the focus of this sermon Human weakness and limited un­ ence in your life? "Wesley's most important con­ derstanding make differences inevi­ tribution to the cause of Christian Do you believe in Jesus Christ? unity.” table. A wise man may think each of Does He live in you? Is Christ his opinions true, yet in his heart he “formed in your heart”? Through Jehu saluted Jehonadab and said, “Is knows there is little chance that all Him, are you “fighting the good thine heart right, as my heart is with his opinions are true. He knows in fight of faith”? thy heart? ... If it be, give me thine principle that somewhere he must hand” (2 Kings 10:15, KJV). Is your faith filled w ith the energy be mistaken. Yet he cannot know in of love? Do you love God “with all o one can deny that we must which particular opinions all his er­ your heart and soul and mind and love our fellowman. The rors lie. If he did, he would surely strength” (Mark 12:30, TLB)? Is God royal law of Christ states, change them. the center of your soul? N“Love thy neighbour as thyself”In this condition the wise man Does the love of God motivate (Matt. 19:19, KJV). Just as surely, we strives to follow the dictates of his you to serve Him with deep rever­ should love particularly those who mind and conscience. And he will ence? Do you hate disappointing share our love for God. “By this shall allow others the same freedom in Him? In all things, do you strive to all men know that ye are my disci­ thinking that he wants them to allow keep a clear conscience with God ples, if ye have love one to another” him. He no more insists on others and man? (John 13:35, KJV). embracing his opinions than he Is your heart right with your All Christians accept these ideals, would want them to demand his em­ neighbor? Do you love your ene­ but few are able to practice them. bracing theirs. mies? Do you “pray for those that Two large obstacles block the way. Neither did Jehu quiz Jehonadab treat you spitefully”? Can your love First, Christians can’t all th in k alike; about his style o f worship. Scripture be seen in your actions? and because of this, second, they suggests that it differed widely from If all this is true of you— if you can’t all w alk alike. his own (2 Kings 10:28-29). Yet sin cerely d esire it to be true of Differences of opinions and Jehu seemed to realize that as long you— then “thine heart [is] right, as modes of worship often prevent a as there are differing opinions, there my heart is with thy heart.” complete external fellowship. But will be a variety of ways to worship But what does it mean when I say should they prevent a unity of heart? God. to such a fellow seeker, “Give me Though we can’t all think alike, may In this area, too, everyone must thine hand”? we not all love alike? Surely we may. follow his own conscience. No man I don’t mean, “Share all my opin­ Even a mixed character like Jehu can choose for another. While I may ions.” You need not. Nor do I mean can serve as our example. have sure confidence that my form that I will share all yours. I cannot. Our text shows the proposal of fel­ of worship is true to Scripture, my Keep your convictions; I will keep lowship between two very different belief is not the absolute rule. Be­ mine. personalities. From a natural per­ fore I agree to unite in love with a I don’t mean, “Embrace my modes spective Jehu and Jehonadab had Christian brother, dare I ask for com­ of worship,” or, “I will embrace very little in common. Even so, they plete agreement in our habits of yours.” Stick to what you believe found communion because of a prayer, Communion, baptism, or most acceptable to God. I will do shared affection. congregational government? Like the same. If you love God and all Their conversation was short. First Jehu, my only question should be, mankind, I ask no more: “Give me Jehu asked a question of Jehonadab, “Is thine heart right, as my heart is thine hand.” “Is thine heart right, as my heart is with thy heart?” Love me. Not just in the way you with thy heart?” Then he made an But what does Jehu’s question love all persons. If “thine heart [be] offer, “If it be, give me thine hand.” mean for Christians today? right, as my heart is with thy heart,” Does it surprise us that Jehu didn’t First, it implies: is your heart right then love me as a friend that is ask about Jehonadab’s theological with God? Do you believe in His be­ closer than a brother; a fellow sol­

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 47 Christian Ministry dier under the Captain of our salva­ tion. Hope for the best in me, trust­ ing that whatever is amiss will, by God’s grace, be corrected. Pray for me. If you are nearer to How Pastors Can the throne of grace, use your place to intercede for the amendment of my errors and inadequacies. Encourage me to love and do Cope with good. Show me how I might better do God’s work. Don’t hold back any­ thing that you think might make me Betrayal more fit for the Master’s use. Join with me in the work of God, as far as your conscience will allow by J. Grant Swank, Jr. it. Windham, Maine Altogether, this describes a “cath­ olic spirit.” Yet because today few expressions are more misunderstood and dangerously misapplied, I close hen I was first in ministry, Betrayal is an experience that we with these clarifications. I wondered why older do not want to admit to; therefore, First, a catholic spirit is not doc­ clergy and their spouses we do not talk about it. After all, we trinal indifference. Many think they Wfrequently looked tired and aloof.are professionals; At many of us are per­ have a catholic spirit when, in fact, gatherings, they would be somewhat fectionists with extremely sensitive they are simply confused. They distant. It was as if a screen had been personalities. Most of us have lofty haven’t sorted out what they believe put up between their inner selves achievement aspirations; to admit and remain tossed back and forth be­ and the rest of the world. Even defeat in friendship bindings can be tween conflicting opinions. A per­ among the more gregarious, there traumatic. Consequently, it is one of son of true catholic spirit knows was that subtle, wary look that kept the most painful of the occupational clearly what he believes. He is com­ the eyes surveying the scene, a pro­ hazards. mitted to his convictions, yet allows tective radar at work. Too often as giving pastors, we others the same privilege. I would say to myself, “Aw, come have been regarded by our parish­ Second, a catholic spirit is not on, let your hair down and be your­ ioners as being so close to God that practical indifference. It does not self. Open up a bit. Enjoy.” Yet the we have no feelings. If they turn on assume all forms for worship are ba­ shielding continued, so that for us— subtly or obviously— they sically the same in the sight of God. years I never really knew some of think we can take it, for we are not A person of true catholic spirit has the colleagues I would see the most all that human. We can withstand carefully chosen his church and often. anything. But we are human; and worship style, judging it closest to Now that I have been in the pas­ aching desperately to embrace the the scriptural and rational ideal. Yet torate for 20 years, I believe I have human race for God, we are cut he allows that others may have done figured out why the older men and deeply by these surprise attacks the same analysis and arrived at dif­ women had been distant. With some from our parishioners. ferent conclusions. of them, they had died inside due to No one told us that when we visit Quite simply, a man of catholic betrayal. With others, they were regularly and try our best to deliver spirit is one who gives his hand to struggling to survive. What brought those stirring sermons, and at the all whose hearts are right with his this on? In large part, it had been the same time craft a smoothly oper­ heart. While holding fast to his own surprise of betrayal—not realizing ating church program to meet the scriptural convictions, he opens his that it was really there. Those clergy needs of the young and old, there heart to all others who are seeking started in the ministry with the sin­ would still be some who would turn to love and serve the same Lord. He cere desire to save the world for in dissatisfaction “to do us in.” loves them, is ready “to spend and Jesus. They wanted to be a friend to I have had fellow clergy say to me, be spent for them,” even “to lay mankind on behalf of a kind Creator. “The very ones I gave my blood for down his life” for their sake. But as time wore on, they discovered have turned on me.” “I thought that Friends, think about these things. that their naive, open vulnerability If you are already in this spirit, go cost them something. on. If you have missed your path, be Betrayal’s sword the worst to grateful that God has called you bare. back. Now run the race set before For friendship promised, trea­ you in the royal way of love. Keep an son seized, even pace. Keep rooted in the faith, And thus dared prostitute the and grounded in love, true catholic nam e love, till you are swallowed up in Of honored Friendship, love forever. $ crushed its reed.

48 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE I was doing what they wanted done; tain persons, only to have those God ask such from the pastors; in­ now they tell me I’m not doing any­ same individuals silently leave or stead, it has been a part of the minis­ thing right.” “The ones my wife and stab us in the back, the shock is hard terial myth, particularly within I had in for evening meals are the to take. Nevertheless, the wounds evangelical Protestantism. ones who have set up the coalitions are to be given over to the Lord for As the wounded pastors we can to get rid of me.” “The ones I had His balm. Thankfully, He can heal find great solace from our families if thought to be trusted are the ones our pain. After all, He has been be­ we have been keeping close to them who have been the most vicious.” trayed since the Fall. We are the vi­ all along. This obviously means then sual victims of the continuing be­ Because we fear being considered that we enjoy our spouses and chil­ trayal against God. Imagine the ache inferior to the task, the wounds of dren by spending time with them— that has been forced upon the eter­ the job are whispered only in pri­ partying, picnicking, making time nal heart. If anyone can empathize, vate with the very select; and even for recreation, sharing the children’s it is He. they are held in guarded suspicion. homework, reading to the younger After all, political snares are here ones, buddying up with the older and there, who knows where? After a ones. We can then conclude that if while, we wonder if anyone, es­ any persons can finally be trusted pecially within the ecclesiastical We are not to be betrayers, it will be those machine, can be truly trusted with under our own roof. What a boon! the inner questions of the occupa­ professionals; 4. We must develop meaning­ tion. ful friendships outside the con­ I recall one pastor who— in an many of us are gregation. It is so easy to become off-guarded moment— opened up to so housebound with our parish­ his superior. He candidly spilled out perfectionists ioners that we put aside to a future his frustrations, only to be grilled by date the making of companionships the very one who should have ex­ “on the outside.” Yet when betrayals tended an understanding hand. In surface, where will we go? To whom sharing this with still another pastor, 3. We must share the frustra­ will we turn? the minister seeking help reasoned tions of the vocation with our After all, the ones within the con­ that his superior had attacked him fa m ily . They will sense our di­ gregation cannot be our closest because of the latter’s own jealou­ lemma, for many times we have friends. Parishioners want a respect­ sies of the pastor’s accomplishments taken our hurt out on them. We need able, professional distance with in other endeavors. to ask for their understanding during their clergy, even in this supposed Somehow there has to be a solu­ the severe seasons by telling them relaxed age when everyone is trying tion, at least a partial one, if we want about our disappointments. They to be so open with one another. The to conclude that it is too soon to die will surround us with special care. Bible commissions us to perfect our inside. This can often be the lift that God people in the image of Christ; this 1. For starters, we must admit uses to keep our inner self alive. can be best done when we do not al­ to reality. We must confront the Sometimes we keep our hurts to low ourselves to be open to compro­ truth of betrayal in the ministry, ourselves rather than burdening our mise for the parishioners’ laxities. some of it coming from parishioners spouses. In turn our spouses may Instead, by maintaining a proper dis­ and some coming from other clergy. also harbor their own bruises rather tance with our own in the church, It is simply one of the negatives of than communicating them to us. we give ourselves the leverage to existence. To gloss over it is to sub­ Eventually, the pileup of pain pro­ still pronounce with freedom, “Thus mit to a positive thinking that is not duces a network overload. Some­ saith the Lord.” true to fact. thing, then, has to give. And more Friendships outside the congrega­ Some of us think we are un­ times than not, the “giving” is not tion are a must. These may be with spiritual if we admit that betrayal pleasant. other clergy. More importantly, they exists in the church. We are always The wise move is to share the hurt may be with clergy of other denomi­ playing a game of erasing the hurt­ with our spouses. Dialogue devel­ nations. The latter, after all, pose lit­ ing facts. We keep manufacturing ops understanding. Opening up tle if any threat when it comes to be­ mirages, usually furnishing these eases the hurt and gives a more pre- trayal. They are not a part of the with traditional, religious cliches. cisioned perspective. A practical, political machine, for they are of an­ All of this merely complicates the team spirit forms, which enables other group; therefore, they have lit­ process of analysis and solution seek­ both partners to have greater strength tle power to manipulate or under­ ing. Calling a spade a spade is not in carrying the load. cut. admitting to being an unspiritual Coupled with this, next to God Making ties with laity outside the disciple. It is using the logic of we need to keep our families in high local church is also helpful. Such al­ Jesus, who commanded His follow­ priority. This does not set well with liances permit friendship sharings ers to be as wise as serpents. those of us clergy who have been that will not revolve around the 2. We must turn the betrayals taught to put family way down in shoptalk of the local group. These over to God, even though this is the listing, thinking that such sacri­ friendships engender freer relation­ particularly difficult emotionally. fice is expected by the Lord. Never­ ships. When we give so much to help cer­ theless, nowhere in the Bible does Fellowship on the outside may

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 49 find a meaningful level by mail and of the country. Go to the library or that a change of place was what he telephone contact. I have a very coffee shop for a day. Enjoy some needed in order to get back on the good friend who lives 3,000 miles sport. Travel overnight to some rela­ track. away; yet we communicate openly tives. Having experienced betrayal, we by letter. Another minister friend is It is encouraging to note how the are more cautious in choosing close half a continent removed; he phones change of scenery— even for a short friends. However, we must not be so regularly for an hour’s chat! while—can drain our retaliatory gun-shy as to give up. There are When the betrayals surface, these feelings relating to betrayal. Simply those out there whom God will re­ friends will be used by God as legiti­ seeing another environment, chat­ veal to be true. In most lives this mate buffers. They will be there— ting with other people, moving the takes some time for Him to work. Be tried and trusted. They will listen. body into other activity does rejuve­ patient. Allow Him to move across They will empathize. They will un­ nate the mind. Then when returning the network of human relations in derstand. to the job, the air is clearer. The bur­ order to aid in the selection of real 5. Understand that betrayal is den is lighter. friends. a part of life in general. The hurts In addition, going through be­ of the ministry are especially deep trayal makes us more aware of our in that frequently the betrayals are Defeat in own allegiances to others; that is, double-edged— betraying God and we’re more sensitive in not be­ the minister of God. Further, the be­ friendship traying someone else who is count­ trayals often trigger eternal con­ ing on us. It is easy in a hurried life sequences with the chance that —one of the to treat others shoddily; however, souls may be forever lost. Yet on when we have been betrayed, we re­ lesser levels betrayals are common most painful alize then that it simply cannot be a to the Fall. Therefore, to sympathize part of our integrity to treat others with laity who experience the death occupational as we have been hurt. inside, we must also walk that path I can tally the betrayals in my own just as Jesus walked it. (“Will you, hazards life. Either I can fondle them, or I too, leave Me?” He asked the Twelve can turn them over to God. If I do as He watched many others He the latter, I can get on with life and counted on turn against His call for One day a friend of mine phoned so be productive for the eternal less demanding paths; see John from out of state. He wondered if he Kingdom. At the same time, I can be 6:67.) could bunk out at our parsonage for deeply thankful to the Lord for the 6. Look on the betrayals from several days. He had been undercut; real companions He has brought the long range. Ten years from the pressure was too great at home into my life. And when they visit, now it will be difficult to recall the base, so that he simply needed to when they phone, or when I receive names of most who betray today. Yet get away. Fortunately, we had been a note from them, I then know that I how often do we wake in the morn­ friends for years, so that his house have come upon some of earth’s ing with the faces of the opposition was always open to me, and my most precious treasures. I cherish staring at us from the mirror? Let us house was always open to him. After these gifts from God and treat them wipe away those faces as best we can he had completed his visit, he with special care. and move on to other things, putting thanked me for “the island” our I know what it has been to be into working practice the guidelines home had provided him— an escape tossed about by ones I counted on as above. from the vice that had been squeez­ friends; and I also know— thank Moving on to other things can ing him in. God— that He has provided others healthily mean that we do some­ At least he had sense enough to to fill in the vacuum. And these oth­ thing other than church work for a deal positively with his emotions ers are more dear to me than life it­ day or two. Get away to another part when under fire. He had realized self. $ BEYOND BELIEF

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50 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE Today's Books for Today's Preachers

THE HEART AND SOUL OF by a classic story from Robert H. Wat­ COMPLIMENT, DON’T CRITICIZE. EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT erman, Jr., coauthor of the best­ Use purr-words, not slur-words. by James Hind selling management book, In Search HUMILITY— PRACTICE AND (PA089-693-6384, *9 99) o f Excellence. In his new book, The PROMOTE IT. Don’t be blinded by Janies Hind takes an interesting Renewal Factor: How the Best Get your own importance. This is the approach to the life and relation­ and Keep the Competitive Edge, he mark of great and enduring lead­ ships of Jesus. As he examines them, says: ership. he finds that Jesus stands out as “the Three people were at work on a RECOGNIZE AND RESPECT THE Model Corporate Manager.” He states, construction site. All were doing ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF YOUR “I have couched the study of Christ the same job, but when each was PEERS. Compete against a standard in a business language and perspec­ asked what his job was, the an­ of excellence in your work, not peer tive.” He quotes Lawrence Miller, swers varied. Breaking rocks, the pressure. longtime business consultant to first replies. Earning my living, INTEREST OTHERS IN WHAT blue-chip companies: “It is my experi­ said the second. Helping to build THEY CAN DO. Find and promote ence and the experience of other a cathedral, said the third. their distinctive talent(s). They will observers that managers who inspire Most of us feel that we are building achieve far beyond their abilities. devotion have dedication to a high­ cathedrals in our work, not just SELF-CONTROL: HAVE PATIENCE er, sometimes mysterious, perhaps m uddling through until payday. WITH PEOPLE. Don’t argue with spiritual purpose. Their beliefs pro­ Then Mr. Hind proceeds to de­ hostile emotions. It pays off. vide them with a sense of special sig­ scribe his approach in detail. He TREAT OTHERS WITH TOUGH nificance which is the key to their calls it the “Commandments of Car­ LOVE AND A TENDER TOUCH. leadership. They know they are not ing” and outlines them in this fol­ Hold people accountable. merely serving themselves, a goal lowing acrostic: The author believes that these for which they know little is worth JUDGE OTHERS FIRST WITH “Commandments of Caring” are sacrificing, but that they are serving YOUR HEART, NOT YOUR HEAD. closely patterned upon the ways their cause, mission, or faith, for Show concern for and commitment Jesus Christ believed, lived, and suc­ which great sacrifices are justified.” to their developmental needs. The author challenges chief exec­ cessfully managed and motivated EXCITE WITH ENTHUSIASM. utive officers (CEOs) to accept the people—-to help them be all that Make it an opportunity to involve challenge of using the Christian God created them to be. He states others. It makes ordinary people ex­ principles of management and at­ that this is true Servant Leadership. traordinary. taching themselves to rewards far He emphasizes that the greatest suc­ greater than their expectations— SOCIALIZE, DON’T OSTRACIZE. It cess is unselfish love— the giving of ones that are everlasting! He be­ creates a community of interests, a yourself to others! lieves that this approach can revolu­ closer bond between people, and a Mr. Hind has succeeded in com­ tionize American business and will desire to support one another. municating the “Agape Love” of restore its soul. C/NDERSTAND PEOPLE AND Christ into practical management Mr. Hind then proceeds to give IDEAS THAT DIFFER FROM YOU. skills. For those persons searching various practical illustrations of suc­ Don’t look for “labels.” Look at their for ways to implement their faith in cessful businesses and leaders who actions, attitudes, and character. business or spiritual leadership, I have im plem ented “the Ways of the SUPPORT YOUR PEOPLE WHEN consider this to be a very usable and Master-Manager.” Among those com­ THEY NEED YOU MOST. Particu applicable book. I hope that it will panies given as exam ples are Wal- larly offer help to those under pres­ be read prayerfully and thoughtfully Mart and Service Master. He illus­ sure or in a crisis. Then they will again and again. trates what business America needs give their most. —Joe Farrow

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 51 Ark Rocker Striving to Be Average

he whole “successful pastor” selves. The pastor who never gets old station wagon. business has been way over­ out of his house will be considered At the risk of being considered ex­ done. Even the “excellence lazy. Pastoral review time will leave treme, it could even be said that a Tversus success” argument misses thehim writing resumes. A pastor who good pastor’s w ife should be aver­ point. I am convinced that the local spends too many hours on church age. A wife who is exceptionally church pastor who wants to build a work may also appear to be ignoring beautiful, classy, or stylish will be a history of long-term pastoral stays his family. Questions may arise as to stumbling block to men in the should direct his energies in another how the pastor and his wife are get­ church. And all the women will hate direction. He should strive to be av­ ting along. The pastor who spends her. Of course, if the pastor has mar­ erage. plenty of time with his family will ried a goddess before he was called A pastor who preaches great ser­ be accused of ignoring the needs of into the ministry, he certainly mons every Sunday won’t get to stay the flock. It would be safer to just be shouldn’t divorce her. She should very long in that church. Somebody average and stay on. have a baby and make everyone feel from a bigger church will visit, be The pastor who strives to be aver­ comfortable again. impressed by his oratory, and try to age should also ignore all seminars, I know that the apostle Paul get him moved the next time there conferences, and district social would hate all this advice. He wrote is a vacancy in the pulpit at his events. Attendance at these func­ about “straining for the goal,” church. tions gives the impression that the “pressing toward the mark,” “run­ On the other hand, a pastor that pastor (1) doesn’t have enough ning the good race,” and things like preaches consistently lousy sermons work to occupy his time; (2) has that. But look at Paul’s track record. will be dumped and go into another money to burn; (3) is trying to earn He didn’t stay more than a year or line of work. Much better, it seems “brownie points.” two in any of his churches. Who to me, to be an average preacher and A good pastor’s automobile wants to emulate a record like that? simply preach well enough to be should be average too. An expensive Why, that’s hardly enough time to comfortable and stay. one suggests that he doesn’t need a learn all the television channel A pastor who spends 60 or 70 raise. A rusted-out smoke-belcher numbers or become chaplain of the hours a week on church work will embarrasses the people in the con­ Rotary Club or even be invited to make his congregation feel guilty gregation. The ideal car for a pastor pray at the high school commence­ that they aren’t doing more them­ striving to be average is a five-year- ment. I 1

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52 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE WORSHIP & PREACHING HELPS

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 53 Carlton D. Hansen

June/July/August 1992

Prepared by Carlton D. Hansen

INTRODUCTION

The summer is an interesting time to preach. Congregational con­ tinuity is lacking, so lengthy series are not practical. Although I have focused on Ephesians for six weeks, there is no par­ ticular theme, so the sermons may be preached on any Sunday and in no particular order. I have also given three character studies: Lydia, Ones- imus, and Gaius. You will find a variety of preaching experiences. Most of the ser­ mons are heavily illustrated, adding windows of truth for each point. Hopefully you will flesh out each sermon, adding your own style and material. My prayer is that God will use this material to help you find a start­ ing point for your summer preaching and that He will anoint your effort.

54 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE THE MIRACLE OF PENTECOST by Carlton D. Hansen Acts 1:7-8; 2:1-4 June 7, 1992

INTRO: hundreds were converted. I would not be back where I was before that blessed experience.” ILLUS. When Lorenzo de’ Medici ruled Florence, the Christians had an unusual custom. They acted out the II. There Is the Purpose of Pentecost (1:8) events in the Scriptures on stage. The presentation of What was the purpose of Pentecost and why did the Pentecost was memorable, getting more than they bar­ disciples need the Holy Spirit? gained for. To symbolize the tongues of fire resting upon A. The disciples needed cleansing from all known the believers, they lit fires upon the heads of the 120 sin actors who played the parts of those in the Upper Room. The disciples needed their hearts cleansed of jealousy, Pandemonium broke out when part of the staging pride, envy, strife, selfishness, self-centeredness. We caught fire. have the same need. Although no one was seriously injured, the scenery The Holy Spirit purifies the thought processes, the at­ was completely destroyed before the fire was extin­ titude, the heart. He gives moral strength and ethical in­ guished. tegrity, and He empowers us to live victoriously in We may view their attempt strange to portray the Christ. meaning of Pentecost in this manner. However, the mira­ Alfred Lord Tennyson’s Sir Galahad said, “My strength cle of Pentecost can be repeated today, and the fire of is as the strength of ten, because my heart is pure.” God can burn hotly on the altar of every believer’s heart. Our prayer is, “Do it again, Lord!” ILLUS. At a Bible conference some years ago, a hus­ band and wife sought the experience of entire sanctifi­ ILLUS. Two men were visiting Niagara Falls when one cation. The next evening the wife testified to her new­ said to his friend, “There is the greatest unused power in found victory. the world!” “I have been a born-again believer for a number of “Not so,” said his friend. “The greatest unused power years,” she said. “But not until last night did I know what in the world is the Holy Spirit of the living God.” it is to be cleansed throughout my being. Until last night I had felt my Christian experience was like a dingy- I. There Is the Promise of Pentecost (1:8) looking washing hung out on a clothesline. But at the The prophet Joel declared, “And afterward, I will altar the Savior made me whiter than snow. He fully pour out my Spirit on all people. . . . Even on my ser­ sanctifies me now.” vants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days” (Joel 2:28-29). This outpouring is not lim­ B. The disciples needed empowerment for service ited to culture, race, or age, but on all flesh. Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to empower and qualify His John the Baptist, forerunner of Jesus, proclaimed that disciples to perform His work on earth. It was not until Christ would baptize His converts “with the Holy Spirit they were filled with the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pen­ and with fire” (Matt. 3:11 )- tecost that they were able to carry out the mandate of One day Jesus gathered His disciples to himself and the Great Commission. comforted them, saying He would not leave them com­ Prior to Pentecost, they were powerless, weak, and in­ fortless (John 14:26). effective. After Pentecost, they declared, “For we cannot Before His ascension, Jesus told His disciples to wait help speaking about what we have seen and heard” in Jerusalem for the coming of the Holy Spirit (Acts (Acts 4:20). 1:4-5). Before Pentecost, Peter could not wholeheartedly say Looking for an earthly kingdom, His disciples asked, he loved Jesus with his whole heart (John 21:15-19) . Af­ “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom ter Pentecost, he loved Jesus so much that he suffered to Israel?” (v. 6). and finally died for the Lord. He responded, “You will receive power when the Before Pentecost, John asked that fire be called down Holy Spirit comes on you” (v. 8). from heaven and consume the Samaritans (Luke God’s timing is always perfect. On the Day of Pen­ 9:51-56). After Pentecost, he ministered to the Samar­ tecost, an 800-year-old promise was fulfilled. itans. We, too, can experience the promise of Pentecost. The Holy Spirit empowers the follower of Christ to become a workman approved by God, (2 Tim. 2:15), “an ILLUS. Dwight L. Moody tells how in New York City instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the he was filled with the Holy Spirit. He said, “What a day. I Master and prepared to do any good work” (v. 21). can’t describe it! I seldom refer to it. It is almost too sa­ This is the secret o f the Holy, cred to name! I can only say God revealed himself to me! Not our holiness, but HIM; I had such an experience of love that I had to ask Him to Jesus! empty us and fill us stay His hand! I went to preaching again. The sermons With Thy fullness to the brim. were no different. I did not present any new truth. Yet — Unknown

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 55 III. There Is the Power of Pentecost (2:1-4) But drops o f grief can ne’er repay Jesus promised, “You will receive power” (1:8). That The debt o f love I owe. power was demonstrated on the Day of Pentecost when Here, Lord, I give myself away; the Holy Spirit was poured out on the 120 believers in Tis all that I can do. the Upper Room and on nearly a score of nationalities — Isaac Watts in the streets of Jerusalem when Peter preached and Second, seek the infilling of the Holy Spirit, allowing 3,000 received Christ as their personal Savior (2:41). Him to have all of you. Your part is consecration; God’s When we are empowered by the Holy Spirit, we will part is entire sanctification. exclaim with Isaiah, “Here am I. Send me!” (6:8). Third, grow in grace by living in daily obedience Our vocation will not matter. Our main business is to (Rom. 8:4). live out the mandate of Acts 1:8. As we stand to sing, move right out to the altar to re­ Let us remind ourselves, though, that the power of ceive the Holy Spirit. When you take that first step, God Pentecost is in a Person, the Holy Spirit, who is: will help you take the second. A. Our Teacher and Comforter: “But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of every­ SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER thing I have said to you” (John 14:26). Announcements B. Our Inner Witness and assurance: “The Spirit Friendship in Worship “Family of God” himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s chil­ Call to Worship Joel 2:28-32 dren” (Rom. 8:16). Choruses “Holy, Holy" “My Desire” C. Our Defense against the wiles of the devil: “You, Hymn “Bring Your Vessels, Not a Few” dear children, are from God and have overcome them, Hymn “Fill Me Now” because the one who is in you is greater than the one Special Music “Breathe on Me” who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). Prayer Chorus “Come, Holy Spirit” Pastoral Prayer and Open Altar D. Our Guide into all truth: “But when he, the Spirit Sanctuary Choir “Pentecostal Fire” of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will Worship with Tithes and Offerings not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, Special Music “Submission” and he will tell you what is yet to come” (John 16:13). Sermon “THE MIRACLE OF PENTECOST” The Holy Spirit will enable us to: Invitational Hymn “Holy Spirit, Be My Guide” 1. Live a holy life in an unholy world. Benediction 2. Use our talents for His glory and service. Pastoral Prayer 3. Be filled with the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. May the grace of Christ, our Savior, 5:22-23). And the Father's boundless love, T. R. Glover said, “The early Christians outthought, With the Holy Spirit’s favor, outlived, outdied the world.” Rest upon us from above. Thus may we abide in union CONCLUSION: With each other and the Lord, ILLUS. Andrew Murray is reported to have said that And possess, in sweet communion while writing The Temple o f the Holy Spirit, he stood in Joys which earth cannot afford. awe and said, “I will meditate and be still, until some­ — John Newton thing of the overwhelming glory of the truth falls upon Creative Worship Ideas me, and faith begins to realize it: I am His temple, and in Offertory Idea “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory the secret place He sits upon the throne.” and honor and power, for you created all things, and He went on to say that when he had finished, he by your will they were created and have their being” prayed, “I do now tremblingly accept the blessed truth: (Rev. 4:11). God the Spirit, the Holy Spirit, who is God Almighty, Offertory Prayer dwells in me. O my Father, reveal within me what it Dear Father, may You bless the giver and the gift, means, lest I sin against Thee by saying it and not living and may we be wise stewards of that which You have it.” graciously given to us. The question of Paul to a group of Ephesian believers Creative Ideas is still appropriate in the 20th century, “Did you receive Pentecost, the 50th day after Easter, marks the be­ the Holy Spirit when you believed?” (Acts 19:2). ginning of Kingdomtide—the season of celebration and harvest. It is the ushering in of the dispensation of God kept His promise at Pentecost. The purpose of the Holy Spirit. that Pentecost has been revealed. The power of Pen­ Consider a 20-minute musical on the celebration of tecost can be experienced personally. the coming of the Holy Spirit by either the choir, an en­ How can you experience the miracle of Pentecost? semble, or a men’s chorus. First, empty yourself of yourself, consecrating your possessions, your will, yourself to Him.

56 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE GOD’S INCOMPARABLE GRACE by Carlton D. Hansen Titus 2:11-14 June 14, 1992

INTRO: Plenteous grace with Thee is found, Years ago a popular song exclaimed, “What the world Grace to cover all my sin. needs now is love, sweet love.” There are many kinds of Let the healing streams abound; love. Love is usually defined differently by different peo­ Make and keep me pure within. ple. The love usually sung about can’t solve the ills that — Charles Wesley plague a world tottering precariously on the edge of an abominable abyss. ILLUS. When a former mayor of New York befriended For man no theme is more grand than love; yet can the a poor, dejected outcast of society, he was reproved by love of the popular song meet his needs? If not, what the prosecuting attorney who said, “That tramp’s no does man need most? good. He’s getting only what he deserves.” Educators feel man can change through education. Hearing this, the judge interrupted the harsh coun­ The scientist insists that man’s needs can be solved with selor by asking with a smile, “Did you ever hear of the greater technology. mother who visited Napoleon on behalf of her con­ The doctor says, “Let me cure man’s ills with medi­ demned son? The emperor told her the young man had cine. Healthy people are happy people.” committed the same offense twice, and justice demand­ Judges, lawyers, and the courts seek to right wrongs ed the death penalty. ‘But Sire,’ she pleaded, ‘I don’t ask through legal means and the administration of the law. for justice— only for mercy.’ ‘He doesn’t deserve it,’ said Governments strive to cure man’s problems through wel­ Napoleon. ‘No, he doesn’t,’ she admitted, ‘but it would fare relief from starvation and want. not be m ercy if he deserved it.’ ‘You’re right!’ said the But the humanistic approach has failed. Although ruler quickly. ‘I’ll grant your request and show him each of these solutions may meet a specific need, they mercy!’ ” have missed the secret of giving man what he needs most. II. Grace Is Incomparable in Its Demand (v. The root of man’s problem can be traced to his fallen 12) nature. Russell V. DeLong wrote, “Man cannot change This demand describes man’s relationship with him­ his own nature,” and “Men who are spiritually sick can­ self, with his fellowmen, and with God. not heal themselves.” Someone said, “He must learn to control his own pas­ More than ever, man needs the love that only Jesus sions, to deal justly with his neighbors, to worship God Christ can impart. God’s incomparable grace provides and obey Him.” the healing balm of divine love for a sin-sick soul. Thomas Benton Brooks noted, “As heat is opposed to cold, and light to darkness, so grace is opposed to sin. Fire and water may as well agree in the same vessel, as ILLUS. When the learned and wealthy John Selden was grace and sin in the same heart.” dying, he said to Archbishop Ussher, “I have surveyed The apostle Paul reminds us that although grace is most of the learning that is among the sons of men, and greater than sin, grace is not a license to continue in sin my study is filled with books and manuscripts [he had so that grace may abound (Rom. 5:20; 6:1-2). 8,000 volumes in his library] on various subjects. But at Rather, grace gives us the strength to resist tempta­ present I cannot recollect any passage out of all my tion, to say no to sin. It empowers us to live godly lives books and papers whereon I can rest my soul, save this in this present world. We do not have to wait on glori­ from the sacred Scriptures: ‘For the grace of God that fication to live free of the yoke of sin around our neck. bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us III. Grace Is Incomparable in Its Guarantee that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should (v. 13) live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present The “blessed hope” is one of the great central dis- world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious tinctives of the Christian faith. Although Paul hoped it appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; would happen in his lifetime, he had confidence that Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from Jesus would come in His own timing. all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, Furthermore, this “blessed hope” is guaranteed to all zealous of good works’” (Titus 2:11-14, KJV). who accept Jesus as personal Savior. I. Grace Is Incomparable in Its Reach (v. 11) What a practical tie exists between the truth of the William E. Gilroy reminds us that “the glorious gospel coming of the Lord and our appearing before Him, and of the grace of God is the profound heritage of the the living of our daily lives. Church and ministry for a lost world.” God’s grace reaches to the worst of humankind. God is ILLUS. Martha Snell Nicholson, suffering for more interested in every person, regardless of race, class, so­ than 35 years, remained triumphant. During those many cial standing, or depth of sin. weary years, she wrote some of the finest Christian po-

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 57 etry ever published. Several years before she died, she wrote about her hope of the coming of the Lord: “The best part is the blessed hope of His soon coming. How I SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER ever lived before I grasped that wonderful truth, I do not Announcements know. How anyone lives without it these trying days I Friendship in Worship “Family of God" cannot imagine. Each morning I think, with a leap of the Call to Worship Ps. 34:3 heart, ‘He may come today.’ And each evening, ‘When I Choruses “O Come, Let Us Adore Him" “Majesty” awake, I may be in glory.’ ” Hymn “Grace Greater than Our Sin” We must live each day as though it were our last. We Prayer Chorus “He’s All I Need” should live on tiptoe with expectancy. Pastoral Prayer and Open Altar IV. Grace Is Incomparable in Its Source (v. Special Music “We Shall Behold Him” Sanctuary Choir “My Savior’s Love" 14) Worship with Tithes and Offerings The source of this incomparable grace is Jesus Christ, Special Music “The Unveiled Christ” our great God and Savior. He purposes to redeem man Sermon “GOD’S GRACE” from sin and purify him to live for all eternity with the Closing Hymn “Amazing Grace” King of grace. Benediction Note these incomparable truths concerning the source of God’s grace: Pastoral Prayer We are justified by His grace (Rom. 3:24; Titus 3:7). 0 Lord, we pray for Your mercy and love and grace. We stand and rejoice in God’s glory by His grace May You open our hearts to Your voice today through (Rom. 5:2). the songs, Scriptures, and message. This we pray in God’s grace comes to us through Christ (Rom. 5:15). Jesus’ name. Amen. We have forgiveness of sins by His grace (Eph. 1:7). Creative Worship ideas Offertory Idea He calls us to service by His grace (Gal. 1:15; 2 Tim. Some time ago, Life magazine made a special offer 1:9). and announced, “Enjoy Life at half price.” How many Our hope of heaven is through His grace (1 Pet. people are trying to enjoy life at half price? It doesn’t 5:10). work. His grace will strengthen, stablish, settle, and perfect Offertory Prayer us (1 Pet. 5:10, KJV). Read Ps. 67:5-6. His grace will keep us from falling (Jude 24). Worship Idea Jonathan Edwards wrote, “As grace is first from God, Emphasize the need to accept God's grace today. so it is continually from Him, as much as light is all day When you pray during the pastoral prayer time, in­ long from the sun, as well as at first dawn or at sun- clude Harry Emerson Fosdick’s prayer: “Somewhere in this congregation is someone who desperately needs rising.” what I am going to say; O God, help me get to him.” ILLUS. Judge Kaufman presided at the trial of the Rus­ sian spies, the Rosenbergs. Charged and convicted of treason against the United States, they were sentenced to death. In his summation at the end of the long, bitter trial, the lawyer for the Rosenbergs said animatedly, “Your Honor, what my clients ask for is justice.” Judge Kaufman replied calmly, “The court has given what you ask for— justice! What you really want is mercy. But that is something this court has no right to give.” There will come a day when we shall stand before Jesus as our righteous Judge. The day of grace and mercy will be over. That is why it is important to accept His offer of incomparable grace and mercy today.

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58 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE THE CHRISTIAN FAMILY by Carlton D. Hansen Eph. 5:22— 6:4 June 21, 1992

INTRO: This begins by dedicating his children to God (1 Sam. In rccent decades, the family foundation has been tor­ 1:28) and by erecting a family altar where prayers are pedoed by many societal forces— an escalating divorce offered for the family, the church, missions, the nation, rate, drugs, alcoholism, child abuse, abortion, absentee and the world. parents, and television, just to name a few. He must be a positive influence in their lives, remem­ Even the definition of a family is in question. bering that apples do not fall far from the tree. ILLUS. Alvin Toffler, author of Future Shock, made an ILLUS. A strange dog w ith three w hite hairs in his tail amazing prediction more than 20 years ago, stating that came to a family’s house one day, and the three sons someday we might see newspaper advertisements like soon became attached. this: “Why let parenthood tie you down? Let us raise The next day a newspaper ad appeared about a lost your infant into a responsible, successful adult. Class A dog that fit this dog perfectly. Pro-family offers: father, age 30; mother, 36; grand­ In the presence of his sons, the father carefully re­ mother, 67. Uncle and aunt, age 30, live in, hold part- moved the three white hairs. time local employment. Four-child unit has opening for The owner discovered where the dog was staying and one, age 6-8.” came to claim his animal. The ad continues, “Regulated diet exceeds govern­ The dog showed every sign of recognition, and the ment standards. All adults certified in child devel­ owner was ready to take him when the father said, opment and management. Bio-parents permitted fre­ “Didn’t you say the dog would be known by three white quent visits. Telephone contact allowed. Child may hairs on his tail?” spend summer vacation with bio-parents. Religion, art, Unable to find the white hairs, the owner was forced music encouraged by special arrangement. Five-year to leave. contract, minimum. Write for further details.” The father said later, “We kept the dog, but I lost my Although the family may not be dead, it is desperately boys to Christ.” The sons no longer had confidence in ill. Even Christians struggle to survive in the midst of what their father professed. cultural attitudes that oppose the traditional family unit. ILLUS. On the other hand, a young attorney said that Through inspired writers such as Paul, God laid down the greatest gift he ever received was a small box from important guidelines of mutual subjection and respect his father one Christmas. for husbands and wives, parents and children—some­ Inside was a note saying, “Son, this year I will give you thing the 20th-century mind finds offensive, “since un­ 365 hours, an hour every day after dinner. It’s yours. bridled freedom is the god par excellence for man to­ We’ll talk about what you want to talk about, we’ll go day.” w here you want to go, play what you want to play. It will Let us look at these biblical principles for today’s fam­ be your hour.” ily. He said, “My dad not only kept his promise but re­ newed it every year, and it’s the greatest gift I ever had in I. What Is the Role of the Father and Hus­ my life. I am the result of his time.” band? (5:24; 6:4) The father stands symbolically in the same position II. What Is the Role of the Mother and Wife? over his family as God stands over His people, as nour­ (5:22-24) ishes protector, provider, disciplinarian, encourager, A. Her relationship to her husband is important and spiritual leader— a position he must never abdicate. Every relationship requires some submission. A. His relationship to his wife is important (5:25, In the unmarried relationship, male and female are 28, 3 3 ) equal. But in the family, the husband assumes certain di­ The love expressed in verse 25 is continual, unceasing vinely ordained mandates of authority in discipline and love, where the husband loves his wife as his own body. instruction of the children, protector, and provider. The When a man and a woman marry, they are “com­ wife must accept the biblical model of submission as plementary parts of one personality” (see v. 31). There­ “unto the Lord” and in the same way the Church submits fore the husband must provide for his wife’s well­ to Jesus if the home is to survive and be happy. being— body and spirit. This does not mean that wives are inferior in any way to their husbands. Rather, there is a natural hierarchy in B. His relationship to his children is important creation, and the wife is next after the husband. (6:4) One only has to take a cursory look at the marital The father’s duty is not to “exasperate” or “embitter” landscape to see that many modern marriages have his children but to lovingly discipline and instruct them landed on the rocks because some wives have not been morally and spiritually. willing to follow this timeless biblical principle.

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 59 ILLUS. At her golden wedding celebration, a grand­ CONCLUSION: mother told guests the secret of her happy marriage. Someone has written a poignant recipe for child rear­ “On my wedding day, I decided to make a list of 10 of ing: my husband’s faults that, for the sake of our marriage, I 1 cup of Prov. 22:6 would overlook.” 2 tablespoons of Prov. 19:13 As the guests were leaving, a young wife asked what 1 dash of Prov. 23:13 some of the faults were that she had overlooked. 1 teaspoon of Prov. 3:5 “To tell you the truth,” the grandmother said, “I never Vi cup of Titus 2:3-7 did get around to making the list. But whenever my hus­ Mix these ingredients, add a pound of persistence, band did something that made me hopping mad, I one cup of love, and whip until right consistency. would say to myself, ‘Lucky for him that’s 1 of the 10!’ ” Add a pinch of Eph. 6:4. II Her relationship to her children is important This recipe was created by God himself. Mother, your influence with your children is as sig­ nificant as your husband’s. Dr. G. Campbell Morgan had four sons who all became ministers. One day a friend asked one of the boys, “Which Morgan is the greatest preacher?” Without batting an eye, he said, “Mother.” SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER Susanna Wesley, pastor’s wife and mother, had 19 chil­ Announcements dren and spent one hour each week with each child that Friendship in Worship “Family of God” survived infancy. Two sons, John and Charles, brought Call to Worship Matt. 18:1-5, 10-14 revival to England. Hymn “A Christian Home” Hymn “O Perfect Love” ILLUS. Wesley L. Gustafson told how as a young man Prayer Chorus “In This Very Room” he would come home late at night. Regardless of the Pastoral Prayer and Open Altar time when he came home, his mother was always awake Hymn “Burdens Are Lifted at Calvary” in her room, praying for him. Sanctuary Choir “Arise and Sing” He said he would sneak into his room and climb into Worship with Tithes and Offerings bed. His mother would come into his room and speak Special Music “More Love to Thee” his name softly, “Wes.” But he would pretend to be Sermon “THE CHRISTIAN HOME” asleep. Closing Hymn “The Savior Is Waiting" Then he said, “She would turn and look out the bed­ Benediction room window and pray audibly, ‘O God, save my boy.’ ” Gustafson said, “I myself am quite sure that the Pastoral Prayer prayers of a good mother never die.” Father, we come to You today on behalf of our fami­ lies. They are beaten down by the world, but they have III. What Is the Role of Children? (6:1-3) come to this place of worship to find a haven from the The Duke of Wellington said, “The thing that im­ world. May this service of worship help them find com­ presses me most about America is the way parents obey fort and rest in You. Amen. their children.” Creative Worship Ideas Offertory Idea The apostle reminds us that children are to obey and Select a family that practices tithing and have them honor their parents in the Lord so that they might have a testify about God’s ability to help them, as a family, long life on the earth. give to the Lord. The sage of old said, “My son, keep your father’s com­ Offertory Prayer mands and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Bind Lord, we thank You for the opportunity to give to them upon your heart forever; fasten them around your You. May You take what each of us give today and neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you use it to reproduce Your kingdom throughout the sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they world. Amen. will speak to you” (Prov. 6:20-22). Creative Idea Obedience may not always be the easiest road to At the conclusion of the service, have each family stand together for prayer. Invite families to include the travel, but it is the best one. singles in the church or children who do not have fam­ ILLUS. A famous children’s specialist observed that ilies present. when it comes to serious illness, the obedient child stands “four times the chance of recovery that the spoiled and undisciplined child does.”

60 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE A GLORIOUS INHERITANCE by Carlton D. Hansen Eph. 1:15-23 June 28, 1992

INTRO: Real wisdom comes by divine revelation. The Holy “The last boy in my Sunday School class accepted Spirit is the Source of that revelation. He guides and Jesus as Savior today,” a teacher declared. “My work is teaches, leading us into all truth. God makes us more done. 1 want a new class.” This teacher did not realize sensitive to His will (John 16:13). The Spirit-filled per­ that a new responsibility had begun. son possesses deeper insights into the things of God (1 Sometimes, after a person has accepted Christ as Sav­ Cor. 2:10-16). ior, those who were praying for him stop doing so. Paul Paul greatly desired that the Ephesian Christians did not stop after a person took his step of faith. would become wise enough to understand the doctrines Paul has just finished with a mighty crescendo in the of Christ. He understood that they had an experiential previous verses by reminding the Ephesian Christians knowledge of Christ, but he wanted that knowledge that they have been sealed with the Holy Spirit, “who is deepened and made stronger. No matter how far one a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the re­ may plumb the depths of biblical knowledge, there is demption of those who are God’s possession—to the always more to explore concerning Christ. A personal praise of His glory” (1:14). knowledge of Christ consists of adoration, communion, This guarantee is an advance installment on their fu­ and obedience. ture. The Spirit-filled life gives a foretaste of God’s inex­ Comprehending who God is and what He reveals to pressible joy that every Christian shall inherit one day. man is vital to Christian growth. Peter declared, “Grow Their faith in Jesus and love for fellow Christians had in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus reached the great intercessor’s ears. Turning from praise, Christ” (2 Pet. 3:18). Paul makes a specific prayer for these believers, asking God to give them the Spirit of wisdom and enlight­ enment so that they can comprehend the great riches of their glorious inheritance in Christ—worthy goals for all Christians today (v. 16). II. The Disciple May Have an Enlightened Heart (v. 18) Akin to spiritual wisdom is an enlightened heart. I. The Disciple May Have the Spirit of Wisdom Sometimes the head is duped by the heart, and our (v. 17) judgment is swayed by our affections and feelings. In Scripture, the heart is the core and center of life, the arena where the battle between sin and salvation is ILLUS. A young man of 32 years had been appointed fought. It is where the will yields to the voice of God or president of the bank. He never dreamed he’d be presi­ rejects Him. dent, much less at such a young age. So he approached Only as God enlightens the heart do we have a right the venerable chairman of the board and said, “I’ve been concept of Him, turning us from the blindness of a dark­ appointed president. I was wondering if you could give ened heart to make the correct decision to accept and me some advice on how to be successful in this job.” follow Jesus. The old man came back with two words: “Right deci­ Albert Barnes noted, “Nowhere is the effect of true re­ sions!” ligion more apparent than in shedding light on the intel­ The young president had hoped for more than this, so lect of the world, and restoring the weak and perverted he said, “That’s really helpful. I appreciate it. But can mind to a just view of the proportion of things, and to you be more specific? How do I make right decisions?” the true knowledge of God.” The wise old man simply responded, “Experience.” This simple process begins with prayer— communion “That’s the point of my being here,” said the young with God. The apostle informed the Ephesian Christians man. “I don’t have the kind of experience I need. How that he was praying for their understanding of the glori­ do I get it?” ous hope they would inherit. We, too, must pray for God Came the terse reply, “Wrong decisions!” to open our understanding of Him and His Word. Most of All of us have experienced the helpless feeling that us would rather do something else to obtain this knowl­ comes with a lack of experience. We may have specific edge than to pray. biblical knowledge, but how do we obtain spiritual wis­ Samuel Chadwick contended, “The one concern of dom, that is, the ability to understand the Bible and the devil is to keep Christians from praying. He fears make right decisions for life? nothing from prayerless studies, prayerless work, and As Christians, spiritual wisdom is not received by in­ prayerless religion. He laughs at our toil, mocks at our tellectual pursuit alone, nor even by experience. Both of wisdom, but trembles w hen we pray.” these can be deadly traps by which we feel we “know We should seek earnestly for a clear understanding of God” because of our intellect or personal religious ex­ God so that we might know the inexhaustible blessings perience. of Jesus in this world and in the world to come. That is

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 61 why the prayer of every Christian ought to be: “Open Thus may we abide in union, the understanding of my heart so that I can know more With each other and the Lord, about Jesus and His will.” And possess, in sweet communion, III. The Disciple Has a Glorious Inheritance (v. foys which earth cannot afford. —John Newton 18) ILLUS. The man who owned the city’s newspaper had three sons. He offered ownership of the paper to the son who could write the most sensational headline with only three words. The first son’s headline announced, “Reagan Turns SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER Communist.” Announcements The second son declared: “Khomeini Becomes Chris­ Friendship in Worship “Family of God” tian.” Call to Worship “He Is Lord” “Holy Ground” But the third son inherited the newspaper when his Invocation headline was submitted with only two words, “Pope Hymn “Jesus Has Lifted Me” Elopes.” Hymn “Jesus Is AN the World to Me” Fortunately our spiritual inheritance is not received Prayer Chorus “Thou Art Worthy” by sensational works or words. It is a gift from God to all Pastoral Prayer and Open Altar who believe on His name and accept Him as Savior and Special Music “More than Wonderful” Lord (Eph. 2:8-9). Sanctuary Choir “Someone Is Praying for You” The Christian’s inheritance is incomparable. Jesus of­ Worship with Tithes and Offerings fers a plethora of benefits to those who follow Him. Special Music “I’ve Just Seen Jesus” For example, the Christian receives peace of mind, in­ Sermon “A GLORIOUS INHERITANCE” Closing Hymn “Have You Any Room for Jesus?” expressible joy, indescribable love, the hope of eternal Benediction life, a powerful faith, and unlimited mercy and grace, just to name a few. Pastoral Prayer The Christian’s inheritance goes beyond human com­ Thank and praise God for the inheritance of redemp­ prehension: “As it is written: ‘No eye has seen, no ear has tion, regeneration, justification, and eternal life. heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared Praise Jesus for His atoning death. for those who love him’— but God has revealed it to us Creative Worship Ideas by his Spirit” (1 Cor. 2:9-10). Our inheritance is both Offertory Idea present and future. Share with the congregation how God uses the Most important, spending eternity with Jesus will be tithes and offerings to support world missions, Chris­ worth every effort to follow Him. tian colleges, denominational offices, evangelism, the local church, etc. When, by the gift of His infinite grace, Offertory Prayer I am accorded in heaven a place, Dear Lord, thank You for the opportunity to give to fust to be there and to look on His face Your cause, to share with others the good news of Will through the ages be glory for me. Jesus. Remind us daily that Christ “has saved us and — Charles H. Gabriel called us to a holy life— not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. CONCLUSION: This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the be­ Assurance of eternal life is guaranteed by the present ginning of time” (2 Tim. 1:9). possession of the Holy Spirit. May we experience the Creative Ideas life-changing reality that accompanies the infilling of Use a teen or an adult to pray the invocation. If you the Holy Spirit. do not use the open altar, have each one hold the May the grace o f Christ, our Savior, hand of the person next to him as you pray. Encour­ And the Father’s boundless love, age them to pray for each other. With the Holy Spirit’s favor, Rest upon us from above.

62 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE ALIVE IN CHRIST by Carlton D. Hansen Eph. 2:1-10 July 5, 1992

INTRO: C. The sinner has a life controlled by Satan The spirit of rebellion dominates the unconverted A little boy, caught in mischief, was asked by his mind because he serves Satan, god of this world (2 Cor. mother: “How do you expect to get into heaven?” 4:4). He thought a minute and then said: “Well, I’ll just run Disobedience is the beginning of all sin and active re­ in and out and in and keep slamming the door until they jection of God’s Word. say, ‘For goodness’ sake, come in or stay out.’ Then I’ll go in.” This illustration aptly points out the fallacy many peo­ D. The sinner has a life in submission to the flesh ple have about going to heaven. How often have we (v. 3 ) heard, “All one needs to do is live a good life, be a good Perverted passions, impulses of the fallen nature, lust person, be a good neighbor, and he will go to heaven.” of the flesh, pride of life, worldly appetites are attri­ The apostle poignantly addresses this issue, in­ butes of the ungodly. structing his audience that without Christ man is dead in “transgressions and sins.” E. The sinner has a life subject to God’s wrath Because of God’s love and mercy, man can be made Modern man does not accept the idea of a God of alive in Christ by faith and receive eternal life. wrath. He wants to see God only as a God of love. With­ One characteristic that distinguishes Christianity from out wrath, God would not be truly righteous. all other world religions is the teaching of salvation by “I could neither love nor fear a God who did not care grace, through faith, apart from human works. A head­ enough about me to be angry with me when I sin” line in the G rand Rapids Press announced: “Conversion (G. G. Findlay). to Hindu Faith Is Torturous.” The article told of a West German businessman who had completed his conver­ II. Paul Speaks of the Postconversion Life (vv. sion to the Hindu faith by piercing himself through the 4-10) cheeks with a ki-inch-thick, 4-foot-long steel rod, and The one thing a dead man needs most is life— not a pulling a chariot for 2 miles by ropes attached to his new suit of clothes or a new car or a new house. The one back and chest by steel hooks. The article went on to say thing a spiritually dead man needs most is Jesus. Paul that others walk through 20-foot-long pits of fire, don turns to conversion, that radical transformation that shoes with soles made of nails, or hang in the air spread- breathes life into the spiritually dead person. eagle from hooks embedded in their backs. What a contrast to Christianity! Conversion to Jesus ILLUS. A beggar stopped a lawyer on the street in a Christ is not accomplished by this kind of self-inflicted large Southern city and asked him for a quarter. Taking a torture, but by faith in Him. long, hard look into the man’s unshaven face, the attor­ Our Scripture lesson paints two contrasting pictures: ney asked, “Don’t I know you from somewhere?” (1) the preconversion life, and (2) the postconversion “You should,” came the reply. “I’m your former class­ life. mate. Remember, second floor, old Main Hall?” “Why, Sam, of course I know you!” Without further question the lawyer wrote a check for I. Paul Speaks of the Preconversion Life (vv. $100. “Here, take this and get a new start. I don’t care 1-3) what’s happened in the past. It’s the future that counts.” With that, he hurried on. A. The sinner has a life of death (v. 1) Tears welled up in the man’s eyes as he walked to a The sinner is dead, separated from God (Eph. 4:18). bank nearby. Stopping at the door, through the glass he Someone noted, “The dead have all the machinery of saw well-dressed tellers and the spotlessly clean interior. motion, but the machine is at rest.” Then he looked at his filthy rags. “They won’t take this The Psalmist described the heathen’s idols as appro­ from me. They’ll swear that I forged it,” he muttered as priate to the spiritually dead: “They have mouths, but he turned away. cannot speak, eyes, but they cannot see; they have ears, The next day the two men met again. “Sam, what did but cannot hear, noses, but they cannot smell; they have you do with my check? Gamble it away? Drink it up?” hands, but cannot feel, feet, but they cannot walk; nor “No,” said the beggar as he pulled it out of his dirty can they utter a sound with their throats” (115:5-7). shirt pocket and told why he hadn’t cashed it. “Listen, friend,” said the lawyer. “What makes that B. The sinner has a life pursuing the world (v. 2) check good is not your clothes or appearance, but my The Ephesians’ thoughts and pursuits conformed to signature. Go on; cash it!” their culture. The Bible says, “Everyone w ho calls on the name of People of every clime and age who do not know Jesus the Lord will be saved” (Joel 2:32). That promise is a live like the world. negotiable note of infinite value. As sinners, all we need

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 63 to do is exchange it by faith for eternal life. Don’t let the spective buyer, he explained that he would replace the tattered clothes of your past keep you from cashing broken windows, bring in a crew to correct any struc­ God’s check of salvation. tural damage, and clean out the garbage. The buyer said, “Forget about the repairs. When I buy A. The believer experiences a God-breathed life (vv. this place, I’m going to build something completely dif­ 5-7) When God breathes life into the spiritually dead per­ ferent. I don’t want the building; I want the site.” son, he comes alive, “raised ... up together” with That’s God’s message to us! Compared with the reno­ Christ, and sits “together in heavenly places in Christ vation that God has in mind, our efforts to improve our own lives are as trivial as sweeping a warehouse slated Jesus” (KJV). Believers enjoy a life that reaches beyond the present for the wrecking ball. When we belong to God, the old life is over. The Lord makes all things new. All He wants world, so that in the world to come they might witness the “incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his is the site and the permission to build. Some are still trying to reform, but God offers re­ kindness to us in Christ Jesus” (v. 7). demption. We must give Him the property, and He will B. The believer experiences a God-gifted life (vv. do the necessary building. 8 - 10) The Christian receives three special gifts from God: grace, faith, and salvation (v. 8). 1. Grace is God’s unmerited favor to sinful man. Grace involves forgiveness, regeneration, justification, SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER repentance, love, salvation, mercy, kindness, loving­ Announcements kindness, and goodness. Friendship in Worship “Family of God” 2. Faith is abandoning one’s own resources and Call to Worship John 14:1-12, 19-21 casting oneself completely upon God. Hymn “The Healing Waters” Hymn “Jesus Saves” ILLUS. Vance Havner tells of an elderly lady who was Prayer Choruses “I Love Him” greatly disturbed by her many troubles, real and imag­ “I Exalt Thee” inary. Finally she was told kindly by her family, “Grand­ Pastoral Prayer and Open Altar ma, we’ve done everything we can do for you. You’ll just Special Music “I Will Glory in the Cross” have to trust God for the rest.” Sanctuary Choir “Rise Again” A look of despair crossed her face as she replied, “Oh, Worship with Tithes and Offerings dear, has it come to that?” Special Music “No One Ever Cared for Me like Jesus” Havner commented, “It always comes to that, so we Sermon “ALIVE IN CHRIST’ might as well begin with that.” Closing Hymn “Turn Your Eyes upon Jesus” F. B. Meyer said, “Unbelief puts our circumstances be­ Benediction tween us and God, but faith puts God between us and our circumstances.” Pastoral Prayer Dear Jesus, we come to You in need of Your mercy 3- Salvation is God’s free gift of eternal life. and love. We long for Your presence to invade our lives. Since the Fall, mankind has been in a vicious circle Give us receptive hearts to the truth of Your Word. This and in need of deliverance. Human power cannot save we ask in Jesus' name. Amen. us. Only Jesus’ sacrificial death on the Cross provided Creative Worship Ideas our deliverance from sin and eternal punishment. Offertory Idea Because Jesus died a substitutionary death and rose Read Heb. 12:28-29. from the grave, every person who calls on the name of Offertory Prayer Jesus shall receive God’s free gift of salvation, liberated Lord, we are grateful to You for all Your benefits. May we give back to You that which is rightfully Yours from sin’s power. and in the measure You have given to us. Amen. ILLUS. London businessman Lindsay Clegg told about Suggestion the warehouse property he was selling. The building Select a recent convert to give a testimony. Empha­ had been empty for months and needed repairs. Vandals size the miracle of the new birth. had damaged doors, smashed windows, and strewn trash all over the place. As he showed the property to a pro­

64 THE PREACHERS MAGAZINE A PRAYER FOR BELIEVERS by Carlton D. Hansen Eph. 3:14-21 July 12, 1992

INTRO: As beautiful as God’s handiwork is in nature, an even greater beauty exists in His enduement of spiritual After recalling how his readers have been made alive power in a person longing for His mighty touch. in Christ, Paul prays that out of the glorious riches of While the outward man decays, the inward man needs God’s eternal storehouse, these Christians will experi­ daily renewal. We must remember that our usefulness ence new spiritual power, a knowledge of the scope of depends on our spiritual strength. Hence the supreme His love, and His fullness. need of every Christian is not physical strength, but spir­ He desires for God to make of this young church what itual strength to combat the wiles of the devil and to it cannot make of itself. With the punctuation of a shot have a victorious Christian life. heard around the world and throughout the heavens, The Spirit-filled person who has surrendered to God’s Paul declares, “I kneel before the Father.” divine will is effective in living the Christian life in an Usually the Jews stood with arms outstretched to ungodly world. Justin Wroe Nixon succinctly noted, heaven to pray. In this instance, Paul prostrates himself “Men use physical power, but spiritual power uses men.” before God with his impassioned appeal for his con­ verts. The apostle believed that the Church should mil- ILLUS. A young seminary graduate came up to the lec­ itantly demonstrate God’s redeeming love and grace to tern, very self-confident and immaculately dressed, to lost mankind. That mission could only be accomplished deliver his first sermon to his first church. But the words by believers armed with spiritual weapons from God’s would not come out! Finally, after several attempts, he holy arsenal. burst into tears and ended up leaving the platform obvi­ His prayer focuses on three major emphases: spiritual ously humbled. power, God’s love, and God’s fullness. Let’s see how Two elderly ladies sitting near the front took in the Paul’s prayer for the Ephesian believers is applicable to whole exhibition. One remarked to the other, “If he’d 20th-century Christians. come in as he went out, he would have gone out as he came in.” The Spirit strengthens the believer, leading him to the I. Paul Prays for Spiritual Power (v. 16) fullness of God and to a more productive spiritual life. Sherwood Eddy has written, “We readily admit that Jesus and all the genuine saints throughout history had spiritual power and that they had a deep prayer life. We II. Paul Prays to Know God’s Love believe that there must be some connection between The supreme desire each Christian should have is to their power and their life of prayer.” know God’s unfathomable love. It should be understood that one cannot continue The breadth of His love enfolds every human being. It very long on the Christian journey without an active is long enough to “last for all eternity.” It is deep enough prayer life. Prayer is the fulcrum upon which our spiri­ to reach the most depraved sinner. It is high enough to tual power balances. elevate each believer into heavenly places. The late J. Edgar Hoover once said, “The force of God’s love bought and redeemed us. He provided prayer is greater than any possible combination of man- grace and mercy when we were yet in sin. His cords of made or man-controlled powers, because prayer is man’s love are strong and unbreakable. Tongues and proph­ greatest means of tapping the infinite resources of God.” ecies and mysteries and knowledge have all failed, but His love endures. ILLUS. Recently my wife and I were in the Great If we had all eternity to describe God’s love, it would Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, the majestic wonder of not be long enough to fully express His incomprehen­ the Appalachian Highlands. Long, craggy mountains en­ sible love for us. veloped by a smoky haze stretch in sweeping troughs and mighty billows to the horizon. From the ground ILLUS. A farmer printed on his weather vane the they’re beautiful, but they look so worthless and un­ words “God is love.” Someone asked him if he meant to productive. imply that the love of God was as fickle as the wind. The One morning we rode a skylift to the top of one of the farmer answered, “No, I mean that whichever way the mountain ranges. From the top, the view was vastly dif­ wind blows, God is love. If it blows cold from the north, ferent. We were surrounded with God’s creation of or biting from the east, God is still love just as much as coves, waterfalls, rushing streams, exquisite plant and when the warm south or gentle west winds refresh our animal life, and a pageantry of gorgeous colors. As far as fields and flocks. God is always love.” the eye could see, God’s hand was evident. I was re­ A Friend I have, called Jesus, minded of David’s words, “In his hand are the depths of Whose love is strong and true the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him” (Ps. And never fails, howe’er ’tis tried, 95:4). No matter what I do.

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 65 I’ve sinned against this love o f His; After many suggestions, Moody picked up a pitcher But when I knelt to pray, and quietly filled the glass with water. “There,” he said, Confessing all my guilt to Him, “all the air is now removed.” He then explained that vic­ The sin-clouds rolled away. tory for God’s child does not come by working hard to — Edna R. Worrell eliminate sinful habits, but by allowing the Holy Spirit to fill the yielded heart. III. Paul Prays for God’s Fullness John Fletcher noted, “We must not be content to be cleansed from sin; we must be filled with the Spirit.” We should pray, “Come, Holy Ghost, our hearts in­ spire. Light our souls with celestial fire. Fill us with SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER spiritual strength, life, breath, purity, love, peace, and Announcements Friendship in Worship “Family of God" joy.” Call to Worship Ps. 30:4-5 The apostle Peter wrote, “His divine power has given Hymn “Since the Holy Ghost Abides” us everything we need for life and godliness through our Hymn “The Comforter Has Come” knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and Prayer Chorus “Lord, Be Glorified" goodness. Through these he has given us his very great “Lord, We Praise You” and precious promises, so that through them you may Pastoral Prayer and Open Altar participate in the divine nature and escape the cor­ Special Music “Holy Ground” ruption in the world caused by evil desires” (2 Pet. Sanctuary Choir “I Go to the Rock” 1:3-4). Worship with Tithes and Offerings Special Music “Touch Your People Once Again” Sermon “A PRAYER FOR BELIEVERS” ILLUS. Centuries ago a king called his most trusted Closing Hymn “Breathe on Me” herald to his side. He handed him a letter and com­ Benediction manded him to read it throughout the entire kingdom. The king longed to improve the level of living for his Pastoral Prayer people and to promote great happiness in the homes of Think of the many spiritual needs in your congrega­ the land. tion. Mentally review each face during the singing. Ask In the letter the king offered special benefits to each God to lay the most spiritually needy person on your subject. The one stipulation said that to collect the ben­ heart as you lead your people in prayer. Be sensitive to efits, each person needed to appear at the nearest vil­ the leadership of the Holy Spirit. lage square on the day the king’s representative came to Creative Worship Ideas Offertory Idea that village. All the benefits that the king promised “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let noth­ would be received only through a personal appearance ing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the before the king’s representative. work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in So also, all the benefits and blessings that God has for the Lord is not in vain" (1 Cor. 15:58). us to experience come through His Holy Spirit. All that Offertory Prayer God has for us is made a reality through the Holy Spirit. Dear Lord, thank You for the opportunity and privi­ The indwelling Spirit enables and equips us to live lege to give to You. We are the recipients of so many Christ’s own life through us. By His grace and His gifts, wonderful benefits from Your gracious hand. We are we are prepared to fulfill His purpose. grateful that You only require us to give in the mea­ sure we have received. Bless the giver and the gift. In Your name we pray. Amen. ILLUS. Dwight L. Moody once demonstrated God’s Suggestion fullness like this-. “Tell me,” he said to his audience, This service is designed to draw attention to God's “how can I get the air out of the tumbler I have in my power in the believer. You may want to select a person hand?” to testify who recently has been touched by the Holy One man said, “Suck it out with a pump.” Spirit. The evangelist replied, “That would create a vacuum and shatter it.”

66 THE PREACHER S MAGAZINE UNITY IN THE SPIRIT by Carlton D. Hansen Eph. 4:1-13 July 19, 1992

INTRO: prompted Paul to write, “I plead with Euodia and I Paul appeals to Ephesian believers to exemplify Christ plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the in their daily walk by living at peace with all men. Lord” (4:2). Unity among Christians was important to This was not a new theme for Paul. To the Corinthians, the ongoing work of the church. he wrote, “Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of Paul brings our attention to those graceful attributes one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace that create harmony in the Body of Christ: humbleness, will be with you” (2 Cor. 13-11). To the Thessalonians, gentleness, patience, and forbearance of each other. “Live in peace with each other” (1 Thess. 5:13)- The au­ These traits are not natural to the carnal nature. We thor of Hebrews emphasized peaceful living: “Make ev­ want to move to center stage, but Jesus says, “Start here. ery effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; You must conquer the battle of self before going further without holiness no one will see the Lord” (12:14). in your Christian walk.” These virtues can only be im­ The Holy Spirit is God’s Answer to peace and unity in parted by the Holy Spirit when we are sanctified wholly the Church, as well as in our interpersonal relationships. (Gal. 5:22-23). When He invades the hearts of believers, discord and di­ Note the meaning of these attributes: vision are as unnatural to the Christian as darkness is to H um bleness— the antithesis of pride, arrogance, and light. conceit G entleness— not immodest or weak, but tender, con­ ILLUS. It is estimated that if all of the American col­ siderate, kind, not given to anger onies would have been more unified at the time of the P atient— no short fuse here; tolerant, understanding, American Revolution, we could have won the war for steadfast, enduring affliction with calmness independence in one year. Instead, because of division, Forbearance—the outgrowth of patience, which it took eight bloody years of battle. helps us overlook others’ faults and weaknesses. Similarly, more people could be won to Jesus more From these inward virtues flow outward behavior, es­ quickly if more attention was given to the things on tablishing unity in the church. which Christians agree rather than on the things of dis­ agreement. Unfortunately the devil works overtime to II. We Have Diversity in the Spirit (vv. 7-13) divert attention from spreading the good news of Jesus Unfortunately for the church, many people who pro­ to petty issues so often divisive. If Christians conform to fess the Christian faith have difficulty getting along. the image of Christ with a peaceful life-style, the church Churches often split over such things as the color of will become an effective force in a discordant world. paint or carpeting, architectural style of the building, We shall observe Christian unity from two vantage which kind of a van to buy, who will head up the youth points— unity in the Spirit and diversity in the Spirit. program or Sunday School, who will sing the solos, or who will be elected to the church board. Infighting I. We Have Unity in the Spirit (vv. 3-6) leaves a distaste in the mouth of those who watch from Many things are common to all believers. On these ar­ the outside. On the inside, good people get hurt be­ eas of unity, we should rivet our energy. Paul spells them cause of someone’s insensitivity. out: “One body and one Spirit— just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, ILLUS. During one of the wars between England and one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all France, two warships met one night. Each thought the and through all and in all” (w. 4-6). Failing at this point other ship was an enemy ship, so they began firing on throws the church off-key. each other. At daybreak, it was discovered that each ship flew the Union Jack. Firing ceased. The ships lay side by ILLUS. A high school orchestra was preparing for a side; the crews of both ships were alarmed at the terri­ concert that featured a pianist in a rendition of Grieg’s A ble mistake they had made. The rigging and the hulls Minor Concerto. Before the performance, it was custom­ showed unmistakable signs that the English knew how ary for the orchestra to tune up with an A sounded by to fire their guns. the oboe player. However, the oboist was a practical The damage done to the ships could be repaired, but joker. He had tuned his instrument a half step higher the lives lost from the battle could never be returned. than the piano. You can imagine the effect. After the pi­ Damage done to the cause of Christ by bickering and anist played a beautiful introduction, the members of fighting very often cannot be repaired. the orchestra joined in. What confusion! Every instru­ First, Paul tells us that God has chosen to bestow vari­ ment was out of tune with the piano. ous talents, gifts, and abilities on different people (v. 7). In Paul’s letter to the church at Philippi, the apostle He says that some are called to be apostles, prophets, mentioned two members who were “out of tune.” In an evangelists, pastors, teachers, all pressing toward the otherwise peaceful, growing assembly of believers, Eu- same goal, winning people to Jesus and building up the odia and Syntyche were spiritually off-key. This Body of Christ (w. 11-12).

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 67 The sanctified believer willingly serves where God fields. But it was too late. They found the girl curled up, places him. God uses different kinds of people with a frozen in the cold. Then the shout went up, “If only we variety of talents within the church, eliminating self- had joined hands before!” seeking, jealousy, and the overwatchful eye on what oth­ The spiritual meaning of this story is clear. Although ers are doing. Instead, each believer searches for ways to there may be diversity of gifts, Jesus’ love demands unity enhance the interests of the church. among His believers. Then Paul says that God gives these gifts to promote maturity: the means of maturity is “unity in the faith”; the reality of maturity is to “become mature”; the mea­ sure of maturity is “the fullness of Christ” (v. 13). ILLUS. Shortly after the close of the Civil War, in a SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER fashionable Richmond church, members of the congre­ Announcements Friendship in Worship “Family of God’’ gation were invited to come to the altar to receive Holy Call to Worship Pss. 127:1; 103:1-2 Communion. Hymn “Faith Is the Victory” After several worshipers came and left after receiving Hymn “Holiness Forevermore” Communion side by side, a black man walked down the Prayer Chorus “All Your Anxiety” aisle toward the altar. A tense silence gripped everyone. Pastoral Prayer and Open Altar No one got up to come down to receive the bread and Special Music “Through It All” wine, although many had not yet received Communion. Sanctuary Choir “Because He Lives” The black man started to kneel alone. Worship with Tithes and Offerings Quietly, a tall, graying man with a military bearing Special Music “He Giveth More Grace” stood up and strode down the aisle to the black man’s Sermon “UNITY IN CHRIST” Closing Hymn “Have You Any Room for Jesus?” side. Together, they knelt. Benediction Before the officiating clergyman could continue, peo­ ple recognized that the person kneeling beside the Pastoral Prayer black man without showing any distinction was Gen. Dear Lord, we come to You with open hearts and Robert E. Lee. Although Lee said nothing, everyone real­ minds. Make us more like You by giving us an agreeable ized he had shown his faith through his act of joining spirit. May we seek to live at peace with all men every­ that lonely black worshiper at the altar. where. Help us keep our eyes on You and not on our Lee gave an example for all. We must not be content circumstances. In Your name we pray. Amen. with any system that divides fellow Christians. We must Creative Worship Ideas demonstrate our unity. Only then can we say truly: “We Offertory Idea are one in Christ.” Read 1 Cor. 15:58. Offertory Prayer CONCLUSION: O God, our Father, Maker of heaven and earth, we rejoice that we have the high privilege of laying at Your ILLUS. A beautiful little girl wandered out one cold feet all Your tithes and our offerings. Please use these day in the countryside of Canada. The family finally real­ gifts to advance Your kingdom in the world. Bless ized that she was lost. They started a search. Then they each person who has obediently followed Your com­ called the people of the community together. Each went mand to bring the tithes and offerings into the store­ his own way. It became dark. The cold of the Canadian house. Bless those who cannot give. Amen. winter settled down. After some time, someone sug­ gested that the searchers join hands and cover the grass

68 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE IMITATORS OF CHRIST by Carlton D. Hansen Eph. 4:32— 5:2 July 26, 1992

INTRO: kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” The apostle Paul said, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with ILLUS. When Leonardo da Vinci was painting The Last compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and pa­ Supper, he had a bitter argument with a fellow artist. So tience” (Col. 3:12). We are to put on kindness as we enraged, Leonardo decided to paint the face of his en­ would a garment. emy into the face of Judas. In that way the hated artist’s face would be preserved for ages in the face of the be­ ILLUS. A Yale University president gave wise counsel traying disciple. When Leonardo finished Judas, every­ to a former president of Ohio State, “Always be kind to one easily recognized the face of the painter with whom your A and B students. Someday one of them will return Leonardo quarreled. to your campus as a good professor. And also be kind to Leonardo continued to work on the mural. But as your C students. Someday one of them will return and much as he tried, he could not paint the face of Jesus. build a $2 million science laboratory.” Something hindered his artistic ability. Leonardo de­ Although we are not to be kind for the reward, kind­ cided his hatred toward his fellow artist was the prob­ ness does pay. lem. So he worked through his hatred by repainting Ju­ das’ face, replacing the image of his fellow painter with II. We Must Imitate Christ’s Compassion another face. Only then could he paint Jesus’ face and Compassion is that ability to share in the suffering of complete the masterpiece. others. Out of love, Paul appeals to the Ephesian believers to Matthew tells us that when Jesus “saw the crowds, he be examples of Christ by being kind, compassionate, had compassion on them, because they were harassed and forgiving to others. He reminds them that it is Jesus’ and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” (9:36). method; it must be theirs as well. Christ’s compassion was illustrated at the tomb of Willard H. Taylor wrote, “Surely it is not possible for Lazarus when He openly wept with Lazarus’ family natural man readily and freely to forgive others, nor to (John 11:35). So genuine was His compassion that even maintain equanimity of spirit in the midst of the aggra­ the Jews said, “See how he loved him!” (v. 36). vating experiences of life. He must come to know Christ We must exhibit compassion even in the manner in intimately, to be so fully united with Him that he has a which we speak to people. new nature.”1 Our new nature helps us become imitators of Christ. ILLUS. A church needed a pastor. The first candidate The only Christ our world may see is Christ in us. There­ came and preached on hell. The next Sunday another fore, the Christian has a solemn, yet joyful, responsibil­ candidate came who also preached on hell. His teaching ity to mirror the beauty of Jesus to a waiting world. was the same as that of the first preacher. When the Our text draws three very important truths: kindness, members of the church were called upon to vote, they compassion, and forgiveness— characteristics Jesus ex­ voted for the second candidate. When asked why, they hibited throughout His ministry and qualities we must answered, “The first one spoke as if he were glad that exhibit in our relationships. people were going to hell, while the second seemed genuinely sorry for it.” Abraham Lincoln said, “I am sorry for the man who I. We Must Imitate Christ’s Kindness can’t feel the whip when it is laid on the other man’s Kindness is the ability to show understanding, sym­ back.” pathy, and tolerance— one of the fruits of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22). Jesus taught kindness as He dealt with children. The III. We Must Imitate Christ’s Forgiveness disciples rebuked Him because He was taking so much Jesus commanded His followers to be forgiving: “For if time with children. But Jesus showed His kindness to you forgive men when they sin against you, your heav­ children by taking them onto His lap and saying, “Let enly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not for­ the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, give men their sins, your Father will not forgive your for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” sins” (Matt. 6:14-15); “And when you stand praying, if (Matt. 19:14). you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that Jesus taught us to be kind, even to our enemies: “But your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins” (Mark love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them 11:25). without expecting to get anything back. Then your re­ Jesus demonstrated His own teaching about forgive­ ward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most ness as He hung in agony on the Cross. Looking down at High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked” those who had crucified Him and were gambling over (Luke 6:35). His clothing, He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they In The Lion and the Mouse, Aesop noted, “No act of do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34).

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 69 General O glethorpe once said to John Wesley, “I never “Keep ancient lands, your storied pom p!” cries she forgive and I never forget.” With silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor, To which Wesley responded, “Then, sir, I hope you Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, never sin.” The wretched refuse o f your teeming shore. When we reflect on how much God has forgiven us, it Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, behooves us to be forgiving to others. I lift my lamp beside the golden door!” When Joseph’s brothers came before him in Egypt ask­ — Emma Lazarus ing for food, he faced a very stiff test of forgiveness. May we become imitators of Christ through our kind­ Years before, his brothers had threatened to kill him; ness, compassion, and forgiveness. then they sold him into slavery. But Joseph forgave them. 1. Willard H. Taylor, “Ephesians,” in Beacon Bible Commentary, vol. 9 (Kan­ Even after their father, Jacob, died and they feared Jo­ sas City: Beacon Hill Press, 1965), 226. seph might take revenge, he assured them of his com­ plete forgiveness. Forgiveness is not always easy, but it is one of the best ways to imitate Jesus to a lost world and to free our own spirits of bitterness. SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER ILLUS. The story is told of a seminary student in Chi­ Announcements cago who faced a difficult forgiveness test. The only job Friendship in Worship “Family of God” he could find was driving a bus on the south side of Chi­ Call to Worship Ps. 8:1-2 cago. Hymn “Follow, I Will Follow Thee” One day a gang of tough teens boarded his bus but Hymn “I Am Resolved” refused to pay the fare. After several days of harassment, Prayer Choruses “Faith in God Can Move a Mountain” the seminarian spotted a policeman on the corner, “Got Any Rivers?” stopped the bus, and reported them. The officer made “God Is So Good" them pay, but then he got off. W hen the bus rounded a Pastoral Prayer and Open Altar corner, the gang robbed the seminarian and beat him se­ Special Music “I Am Determined” Sanctuary Choir “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” verely. He pressed charges, and the gang was rounded Worship with Tithes and Offerings up, tried, and found guilty. But as soon as the jail sen­ Special Music “Near the Cross” tences were given, the young Christian saw their spiri­ Sermon “IMITATORS OF CHRIST” tual need and felt pity for them. So he asked the judge if Closing Hymn “The Savior Is Waiting” he could serve their sentences for them. Benediction The gang members and the judge were dumbfounded. “It’s because I forgive you,” he explained. Although his Pastoral Prayer request was denied, he visited the young men in jail and 0 Lord, we come to You today seeking Your will. We led several of them to Jesus. bring to You those needs that are prevalent in our con­ We all stand in need of forgiveness. Jesus’ forgiveness gregation today. There are so many hurting people. We brings peace. Our forgiveness to others restores broken ask for Your healing touch. Lift the fallen, encourage the relationships. As Corrie ten Boom has said, When God discouraged, bring comfort to the sorrowing, give peace to those in conflict. Help us become imitators of Christ. buries our sins in the deepest sea, He posts a sign that This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. reads: “No Fishing!” We should cease fishing when we Creative Worship Ideas have forgiven others. Offertory Idea Read 2 Cor. 8:7. CONCLUSION: Offertory Prayer ILLUS. At the base of the Statue of Liberty is the beau­ Dear Lord, we bring to You our tithes and offerings. tiful sonnet, “The New Colossus,” by Emma Lazarus. The May we follow the admonition of our scripture today and “excel in this grace of giving.” Keep our hearts message of the church is reflected in the last five lines open to the blessing we receive when we give from a of this sonnet. cheerful heart. Amen. Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame, Suggestion With conquering limbs astride from land to land; Today we focus on imitating Christ in our daily walk Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand with Him and as a witness in our world. No doubt A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame some people in your congregation excel at this in their Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name personal lives. You might interview one or two, Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand searching for the secrets of their spiritual walk. Glows world wide welcome; her mild eyes command The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.

70 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE LOVE’S APPEAL by Carlton D. Hansen Philemon August 2, 1992

INTRO: nor Onesimus’ name, until verse 10. He says of him, Although Philemon contains no explicit doctrinal “Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has be­ teachings, it is an excellent example of Christian ethics come useful both to you and to me.” and how conversion changes one’s attitude toward him­ Paul’s successors in church leadership around the Ae­ self and others. gean Sea would probably have come from the ranks of Written by Paul from a Roman prison about a d . 62, assistants like Timothy, who was with him at the writing the letter is addressed to Philemon, a rich and influ­ of this letter, Titus, and Silas. ential Colossian and one of Paul’s converts; Apphia, One of the Epistles of Ignatius, written soon after the probably Philemon’s wife; Archippus, an office-bearer in beginning of the second century, tells us that the bishop the Colossian church; and to the other believers that of the church at Ephesus at the time was a man named met in Philemon’s home. Onesimus. In all likelihood, he is the same person Paul Paul greets Philemon with, “Grace to you and peace had come to love dearly. from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (v. 3). Before this time, Onesimus was a slave in Colossae. He reminds him that he prays for him daily. Slaves were common in the Roman Empire. But Phrygian The capstone of the greeting is verse 7. Anyone re­ slaves, of whom he was one, were notoriously lazy and ceiving such a glowing salute would naturally think insolent. twice before he rejected any request for help. Through larceny and treachery, Onesimus had put a Paul uses more than one-third of his letter to extol thousand miles of distance between him and his master. Philemon’s character before he presents his defense for Socially, Onesimus was without status. No court Onesimus, Philemon’s runaway slave. would have upheld his action. Nor could he have found Jesus had produced a remarkable change in Onesimus’ anyone to give him a proper defense. His future was life. Now Paul was ready to defend, support, and com­ bleak. mend him to his Christian brother. How did Christ make In the eyes of others, he was probably regarded as de­ a difference in Onesimus’ life and how can He do the bris among men, not living up even to the meaning of same in ours? his name— “useful.” Because God directs the destiny of men, Onesimus the I. Paul Speaks of the Problem (vv. 8-10) sinner came in contact with Paul the saint in a Roman A. Paul appeals for love’s sake (vv. 8-9) prison. Here Paul influences the criminal to look In the Roman Empire of this period an owner might squarely at himself, possibly for the first time in his life. legitimately take the life of a runaway slave. Onesimus Seeing his need, Onesimus prayed, confessed his sin, needed an advocate. Hence Paul, who could not accom­ and received Christ into his heart. pany him to his master, forcefully states that he has the Now, through the transforming power of Jesus, Ones­ authority to order Philemon to receive Onesimus back. imus is more than a fellow prisoner with Paul. He has He appeals, however, on the basis of love (w. 8-9). become the apostle’s “son.” B. Paul appeals for respect (v. 9) B. The new believer has discovered intimacy (vv. Paul uses the term “old man,” not to elicit pity, but to 12-14) show the need to respect leadership. One may not al­ Although Paul feels a moral duty to send Onesimus ways agree with his leader. An issue may be debated. But back to his master, he also has deep affection for his new when the leader makes a decision, sometimes for rea­ convert and wants to keep him. So close had the two be­ sons that cannot be seen on the surface, the follower come that Paul says, “I am sending . . . my very heart” (v. should submit. 12). C. Paul appeals from imprisonment (vv. 9-10) Adam Clarke reminds us, “The Christian religion Much of Paul’s life after his conversion was spent in never cancels any civil relations . . . Justice, therefore, prison. He could have rebelled because it prevented him required St. Paul to send back Onesimus to his master, from preaching the gospel. Yet he never allowed circum­ and conscience obliged Onesimus to agree in the pro­ stances to hinder his ministry. priety of the measure; but love to the servant induced We may be imprisoned by circumstances that do not the apostle to write this conciliating letter to the mas­ allow us to work for Christ in the way we would like. ter.” But if we will do what we can, where we are, and with What is retained by force is easily lost, but what is what we have, much can be accomplished for the Mas­ bound by love is kept for eternity. That kind of love ter. reached out to Onesimus in the first place. Because Paul loved Onesimus, he knew he could not II. Paul Speaks of Transformation (vv. 11-14) force him to return to Philemon. Rather, Onesimus must A. The new believer becom es a new creation (v. 11) willingly return because he loved Christ, which in turn Paul does not mention the real purpose of this letter, would prompt him to love his master. Philemon, as a

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 71 Christian, must now also love Onesimus the slave as a of a genuine Christian is his willingness to go the sec­ brother in Christ. ond mile. Paul might have asked Philemon to forgive Onesimus CONCLUSION: and then have kept him in Rome as a fellow worker. But Benjamin Franklin said, “Doing an injury puts you be­ the real benefit to both Paul and Philemon would have low your enemy; revenging one makes you but even with been diminished. him; forgiving it sets you above him.” Onesimus could have stayed with Paul out of neces­ sity but would not have learned the lesson of Christian ILLUS. Tradition says that when the aged apostle John responsibility. Philemon would not have experienced bid farewell to his congregation, he urged them to love the joy of forgiving freely. one another. “But we want something new,” they said. “Give us a ILLUS. In 1818 Tamatoe, king of Huahine, one of the new commandment.” South Sea Islands, became a Christian. One day he dis­ John replied, “Brethren, I write no new command­ covered a plot by some of the islanders to kill him and ment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had fellow converts. He organized a group to capture his en­ from the beginning . . . that we should love one another” emies and then set a feast before them. This unexpected (1 John 2:7; 3:11, KJV). kindness surprised the savages, who burned their idols and turned to Christ. III. Paul Speaks of the Proposals (vv. 15-25) A. Paul proposes restoration (v. 15) Paul asks Philemon to restore Onesimus to a perma­ SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER nent, personal, Christian relationship. He fled as an un­ Announcements faithful slave; now he returns as a beloved brother. When Friendship in Worship “Family of God” a sinner comes to Jesus, he is restored to God fully by Opening Choruses “Oh, How He Loves You and Me” “It Matters to Him” adoption into the family of God, no matter the sin. Hymn “And Can It Be?” B. Paul proposes elevation (vv. 16-17) Old Testament Lesson Song of Sol. 8:6-7 Paul asks Philemon to consider Onesimus, not as chat­ New Testament Lesson 1 Corinthians 13 tel, but as a partner. Prayer Chorus “Open Our Eyes” When a person comes to Christ, it is the obligation of Pastoral Prayer the household of faith to treat the new convert as a Lord’s Prayer in Unison Matt. 6:9-13 Duet “The Love of God” member of the family, to forgive past sins and mistakes, Worship with Tithes and Offerings and to provide an opportunity for service. Sanctuary Choir “Sweet Peace, the Gift of God's Love" C. Paul proposes restitution (vv. 18-19) Message “LOVE’S APPEAL” Because he was not sure of any wrongdoing insofar as Closing Hymn “My Savior’s Love” stealing is concerned, the apostle was willing himself to Benediction pay any bills Onesimus might have owed—the same spirit that Jesus takes toward sinners. Pastoral Prayer Where injury has been done, restitution is necessary Pray for those who are suffering emotional distress, discouragement, and temptation. to maintain a right relationship with God. When one is Seek God’s help for deliverance for those who are un­ converted, he should make all known wrongs right as able to forgive. quickly as possible. As he grows in grace, God will re­ Creative Worship Ideas veal other things that may need attention. These should Offertory Idea be corrected as soon as God reveals them. Read 1 Cor. 1:26-31. This admonition applies also to patching up quarrels Offertory Prayer and differences, apologizing for acts of unkindness or Dear Father, as we come to You today with our words harshly spoken, and taking back what was stolen, tithes and offerings, may we give from generous or if that is not possible, at least offering to pay for it. hearts, reminding ourselves of Your sacrificial giving of The Bible is clear that we must put off past works of Your Son so that the world may know Him as Savior and Lord. This we ask in Jesus’ precious name. darkness and take on the new life through the renewing Amen. of our mind. Suggestion There may be extenuating circumstances when resti­ Consider asking someone who has received for­ tution can never be made. These must be left with God, giveness to testify concerning God’s mercy and love. and we should accept the Lord’s forgiveness and go on Benediction from there. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with I). Paul proposes confidence (vv. 20-22) hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Rom. 15:13). Paul has complete confidence that Philemon will do what is right by Onesimus. He believes he will go be­ yond what has been asked (v. 21). One of the attributes

72 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE THE CONVERSION OF LYDIA by Carlton D. Hansen Acts 16:11-15 August 9, 1992

INTRO: itime city of Mysia, in the northwest part of Asia Minor. Here Paul would wait on God’s direction. Today our message focuses on the first European site Had Paul not listened to the Holy Spirit, he would of Christian missionary activity— Philippi, the principal never have visited Europe nor written Romans or the Co­ city of Macedonia. We will explore the Holy Spirit’s rinthian letters. Also, he would have limited his work. guidance in the life of Paul and the events leading to the To touch the Greek world would open a door to a vast conversion of Lydia. harvest field and the world at large. A Gentile purple merchant from Thyatira, Lydia was As God closed doors for Paul to allow him to do a big­ the first European convert, the first to be baptized, and ger work, sometimes He closes doors for us. However the first to open her house to the Christian missionaries the Spirit may speak—through thought suggestion, — all evidence of Paul’s obedience to the leadership of through our feelings or will, through the Scriptures, the Spirit. through prayer, or through other people—when He di­ ILLUS. Someone came upon Michelangelo chipping rects, it is time to obey. Perhaps the most difficult thing away with his chisel on a huge, shapeless piece of rock. to do in finding God’s will is to wait. He asked the sculptor what he was doing. “I am re­ leasing the angel imprisoned in this marble,” he an­ II. God Intervenes with the Macedonian Call swered. Jesus sees and releases the hidden hero in every (vv. 9-12) person who comes to Him. A. Paul received the vision (v.9 ) En route unknowingly to Macedonia, Paul and his While at Troas, waiting on God’s direction, Paul companions, Silas and Timothy, carried copies of the preached and founded a church. He did not hole up in decision of the apostles and elders from the Jerusalem some corner to wait. He occupied himself with God’s synod concerning the Gentiles, to be delivered to.the business until he received marching orders from his cities as they traveled northward. The decree forbade Commander. imposing the ceremonial law on the Gentiles (Acts When God finally spoke, it was through a nighttime 15:23-29). vision. Paul was familiar with this type of message from Luke enthusiastically reports that the churches were God, so he was not surprised. growing daily in faith and numbers. What a thrilling re­ port! As 20th-century Christians, we should expect no B. Paul sought to go (v. 10) less. The Macedonian call, “Come over to Macedonia and At this point God intervenes in a special way. help us,” ignited a blaze of missionary zeal inside Paul that could not be extinguished. I. God Intervenes with Divine Direction (vv. The call was so clear and precise that he could not 4-8) wait. Joining the party, Luke records, “We got ready at once to leave.” A. Direction of the Spirit (v. 6) We, too, should respond to God’s call immediately. If Paul wanted to go into Asia to preach. But as he and we do not, there is danger of our hearts hardening to his companions passed through the Phrygio-Galatian re­ God’s voice. When God calls, He makes a way and pro­ gion, they were “kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching vides grace to fulfill the task. the word in the province of Asia.” What was beyond that, they did not know. Paul had had enough experience in C. Paul was called of God (v. 10) listening to God that he obeyed. Living as a Christian is exciting; called of God to per­ There are times when it seems to us that God’s way form a special ministry is doubly exciting. All Christians may not be the best way. We want to create our own are called of God to do something. Some are specifically plans. But we see only the present; God sees the future called “to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be and knows what is best for us. evangelists, and some to be teachers, to prepare God’s Sometimes God interrupts our plans to prevent costly people for works of service, so that the body of Christ mistakes. While we should exercise intelligence and may be built up” (Eph. 4:11-12). careful judgment, we must always listen to the Holy Spirit’s direction before any major decisions. When He III. God Intervenes with Europe’s First Convert leads, there are no mistakes. (vv. 13-15) B. Impressions of the Spirit were given (vv. 7-8) A. There is power in prayer (v. 13) Traveling northward, the missionary party came to The weather conditions were favorable, so the voyage Mysia and attem pted to go on over into Bithynia, “but across the north Aegean to Neapolis on the Macedonian the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to.” coast took only two days. From there, they traveled in­ Since the Holy Spirit definitely impressed them not to land to the Roman colony of Philippi. go that direction, they came on down to Troas, a mar­ Paul customarily attended the local Jewish synagogue

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 73 on the first sabbath after his arrival in a new city in or­ When the gospel seed is sown and takes root in one’s der to make the gospel known to the Jews first. life, the results are great! The church at Philippi re­ Because there was no synagogue at Philippi, the offi­ sulted from the conversion of Lydia and her faithfulness cial meeting place was outside the city on the bank of to the Lord. the Gangites River. ILLUS. In England a paper factory makes the finest sta­ Here Paul found a number of Jewesses and God­ tionery. One day a man touring the factory asked what fearing Gentiles assembled together for prayer, no doubt the stationery was made from. He was shown a huge pile to encourage each other and bring their petitions col­ of old rags. The rag content determined the quality of lectively to God. the paper. The man wouldn’t believe it. In six weeks he One cannot help but wonder what impact these received a package of paper from the company with his prayer meetings had on Paul’s vision at Troas. Prayer is initials embossed on it. On the first page were written the most neglected, yet most powerful, resource at our the words: “Dirty Rags Transformed.” The same is true of disposal. the Christian life. B. There is the foolishness of preaching (v. 13) Preaching must be central to the worship service. Through Christ-centered preaching people are con­ fronted with the power of the living God. God-anointed preaching cuts through the shame of sin and goes directly to the heart, creating conviction. SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER God-called preachers are under orders to proclaim the Announcements life-changing good news of Jesus. Although times may Friendship in Worship “Family of God” change and new methods of evangelism may be bene­ Call to Worship Ps. 30:11-12 ficial, we have never been released from Jesus’ com­ Hymn “Redeemed” Hymn “Hallelujah, I Am Free!” mand to preach the Good News. Prayer Chorus “Spirit of the Living God” ILLUS. An Indian attended a church service one Sun­ Pastoral Prayer and Open Altar day morning. The preacher’s message lacked real spiri­ Special Music “Amazing Grace” tual food, so he did a lot of shouting and pulpit pound­ Sanctuary Choir “He’s the Lord of Glory" ing to cover up his lack of preparation. After the service, Worship with Tithes and Offerings someone asked the Indian what he thought of the minis­ Special Music “The Glory of His Presence" ter’s message. Thinking for a moment, he summed up his Sermon “THE CONVERSION OF LYDIA” opinion in six words: “High wind. Big thunder. No rain.” Closing Hymn “Ho! Every One That Is Thirsty” Benediction Isa. 60:1 When the Scriptures are neglected, there is “no rain.” Only preaching based on God’s Word blesses and re­ Pastoral Prayer freshes His people. Dear Jesus, we come to You as a needy people today. C. There is conviction (v. 14) We pray for Your grace, mercy, and love so that we may Conviction comes in many ways— by means of the at­ learn to serve You better in our sin-darkened world. mosphere of the church service, friendship among Amen. Christians, tragedies in life, visible results of miracles in Creative Worship Ideas people’s lives, reading Scriptures, or through a gospel Offertory Idea There are three kinds of givers—the flint, the message. sponge, and the honeycomb. To get anything out of a The Lord pierced Lydia’s heart w ith the preaching of flint, you must hammer it. Then you get only chips and God’s Word. She felt convicted of her need for Jesus and sparks. To get water out of a sponge, you must responded to Paul’s message. What peace and joy there squeeze it. The more you use pressure, the more you is when we obey God and divine forgiveness is obtained! will get. But the honeycomb just overflows with its D. There is baptism (v. 15) own sweetness. Which kind of giver are you? Offertory Prayer Lydia and her household were baptized as a public “With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that confession of faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. our God may count you worthy of his calling, and that Baptism is not necessary for salvation or as assurance by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of of heaven. Rather, it is practiced as a joyous ordinance of yours and every act prompted by your faith” (2 Thess. our faith and an act of obedience. 1:11). E. There is hospitality (v. 15) Suggestion Focus on conversion and how God transforms peo­ W ith all of her heart, Lydia w anted to learn more ple. Have a recent convert testify how Jesus worked a about Jesus. Immediately she exemplified a spirit of miracle in his life. Remind your listeners that God hospitality by inviting the missionaries to her home. loves them as if they were the only people in the When a person accepts Jesus as personal Savior, there is whole world needing a Savior. an immediate change in desires, attitude, conduct, and associates. The world loses its attraction, and living for Jesus makes life rewarding.

74 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE WALKING IN THE SPIRIT by Carlton D. Hansen 2 John 1-6 August 16, 1992

INTRO: of such lengthy voyages without losing his way. Eliazar said, “I go up on deck at night, and I look at the stars, John begins this little letter by addressing the “chosen and I listen to the wind in the riggings, and I check the lady,” or the church and its members, whom he loved drift of the seas, and then I set my course.” After com­ dearly. He reminds them that the truth of eternal life pleting his course in the science of navigation, Eliazar would live with them forever. returned home and resumed his maritime vocation. He continues his greeting with the assurance of God’s Sometime later the instructors visited Eliazar and “grace, mercy and peace” (v. 3), God’s unmerited favor once again asked how he navigated his great ship. “Ex­ and compassion, and the peace that comes when guilt actly as you taught me,” he responded to everyone’s sur­ and sin are removed. prise. “I use the sextant to shoot the angle of the sun at Three thoughts stand out from the text. midday. After fixing my longitude and latitude on the charts, I get out my compass and other instruments to I. Believers Are to Walk in the Truth (v. 4) plot my course. And then,” he continued, “I go up on The writer speaks of his personal joy when he learns deck at night, and I look at the stars, and I listen to the of those who are walking in the truth as revealed by wind in the riggings, and I check the drift of the seas— Jesus Christ, something he had not found in some other and go back down to correct my calculations.” churches. If we want to know how to walk in the truth, we need to diligently search God’s Word and listen to the Holy ILLUS. Sometimes fact is funnier than fiction. Accord­ Spirit (John 16:13)- ing to an article in the New York Times, over the past 50 years authorities in the Soviet Union have been deliber­ ately sabotaging their own maps of the Soviet coun­ tryside. Rivers, bridges, cities, and coastlines have all II. Believers Are to Walk in Obedience (v. 6) been shown in wrong locations on maps or deliberately John’s test of love is obedience to God. drawn incorrectly. Distance scales have been an absolute Obedience remains an important biblical concept— joke. Soviet theory, apparently, was that these errors one that cannot be shrugged off. made these maps useless to spies, invading armies, and Samuel, in replying to Saul, said, “Does the Lord de­ navigators of enemy bombers. Unfortunately, though, light in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in the maps were also useless to tourists and Soviet citi­ obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than zens. sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams” (1 This little piece of news reveals to us the wall of fear Sam. 15:22). the Soviets built around themselves over the last half Jesus gave us the supreme example of obedience. The century and the great lengths to which they would go to Hebrews writer recalls the account: “Although he was a distort the truth. son, he learned obedience from what he suffered and, Pontius Pilate asked a very important question in his once made perfect, he became the source of eternal sal­ confrontation with Jesus: “What is truth?” (John 18:38). vation for all who obey him” (5:8-9). People often frame the question differently by asking, Paul, speaking to the Roman believers, noted, “For “How can I know what to believe in today’s world?” just as through the disobedience of the one man the And, “How can 1 know whom to trust?” There is a lack of many were made sinners, so also through the obedience credibility on the part of those who are the guardians of of the one man the many will be made righteous” truth. (5:19). Of course the answer, although simplistic to many, is Andrew Murray has noted that the secret of true obe­ found in the Bible. God’s Word, not man’s, holds the key dience is the “clear and close personal relationship to to all truth (Col. 1:5). Often we make truth harder to God.” Unless we live close to Him, all attempts at obe­ discern than it really is. dience will be futile. Murray goes on to say, “I must con­ sciously include the Lord in every thought, activity, and ILLUS. Eliazar Hull, the captain of a whaling ship, conversation until the habit is established.” sailed from the ports of New England in the early 1800s. Everybody longs for freedom. But for many people its Eliazar was able to sail out farther, stay out longer, and, pursuit leads to bondage. The greatly loved Bible in that way, come back with a larger catch than anyone teacher Henrietta Mears knew the secret of true freedom else. Owners of the fleet, seeking to insure their ships and she wanted her students to know it too. With young against damage or loss at sea, asked that all ship captains people in mind, she said, “A bird is free in the air. Place be schooled in the latest navigational techniques of the a bird in the water, and he has lost his liberty. A fish is day. free in the water, but leave him on the sand, and he per­ When Eliazar arrived for training, the instructors, who ishes. He is out of his realm. So, young people, the had long since heard of his amazing sailing prowess, Christian is free when he does the will of God and is asked him how he was able to navigate the vast distances obedient to God’s command. This is as natural a realm

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 75 for God’s child as the water is for the fish, or the air for CONCLUSION: the bird.” ILLUS. Florence Nightingale, one night during the We cannot forget that obedience includes discipline. Crimean War, was passing down a hospital ward. She ILLUS. During the days that Knute Rockne served as paused to bend over the bed of a wounded soldier. As coach at Notre Dame, a sports columnist in a South Bend she looked down on him with eyes of compassion, the newspaper earned the reputation of being the meanest, young man looked up and said, “You’re Christ come to most cutting writer in the country. The anonymous me.” writer, who knew Notre Dame well, wrote about the When we truly minister with love and compassion, we team’s weaknesses. He pointed out the mistakes of indi­ reflect Jesus and His love. vidual players. He told about those who were lazy, about Paul wrote: “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in those who broke training and didn’t discipline them­ step with the Spirit” (Gal. 5:25). Pray that God will selves. Of course, this column made the players roaring help us “keep in step with the Spirit” by walking in the mad. The truth hurt and players complained to Rockne. truth, obedience, and love. He listened with sympathy but said he could not stop the writer. He advised that the only way the players could do so was to go out and play the game so well that they would prove him wrong. Later it became known that the writer of the column was Knute Rockne him­ SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER self. As coach of the team, he was best acquainted with Announcements their weaknesses. The critical column was his ingenuous Friendship in Worship “Family of God" device to develop a better team. Sanctuary Choir “Sometimes Alleluia” Sometimes the Scriptures speak so sharply about us, it Scripture 1 John 4:7-12 is uncomfortable. God tells the truth because He loves Hymn “He Loves Me” us and wants to make us winners. He knows that we can­ Hymn “It’s Just like His Great Love” not win unless we discipline ourselves to obey His rules Prayer Choruses “Bless the Lord, O My Soul” “Gentle Shepherd” of life. Pastoral Prayer and Open Altar III. Believers Are to Walk in Love (v. 6) Special Music “Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee” Both truth and obedience must be tempered with Sanctuary Choir “The Lord Fteigneth” love. Truth without love is cold and sterile; obedience Worship with Tithes and Offerings Special Music “Jesus, Be the Lord of AH” without love is duty. Paul said we are to speak the truth Sermon “WALKING IN LOVE” in love so that “we will in all things grow up into him Closing Hymn “Softly and Tenderly” who is the Head, that is, Christ” (Eph. 4:15). Benediction The command to walk in love is not a new command­ ment from John, but from Jesus himself. This kind of Pastoral Prayer love is different from parental, marital, or friendly love. Dear Jesus, we focus on walking in love by the power It is esteem for the other person. of the Holy Spirit. We need to feel Your touch as we When John was unable to walk to the Christians’ gather from various walks of life. Unless You are meeting place, he was carried there to address the con­ present, all that we do shall be in vain. If You come, if gregation. His only message was, “Little children, love Your presence fills this sanctuary, if You touch each per­ one another.” son who has come to worship, we will leave the sanc­ Some wag penned this little ditty: tuary different people. We love You from the very depths of our spirits. We want to learn how to live as You com­ To dwell above with the saints we love— mand. Open our minds and hearts to the truth of Your Oh, that will be glory. Word. Amen. But to dwell below with the saints we know — Creative Worship Ideas Well, that’s another story! Offertory Idea When we walk in His love, though— that love that de­ Read Phil. 4:6. scends from God into the human heart—we are able to Offertory Prayer love everyone. Dear Lord, giving is a joy. Help us give as if this Love makes the truth revealing and exciting; love would be our last opportunity to give back to You that makes obedience easy. which is rightfully Yours. Help us give joyfully, cheer­ John wrote earlier, “This is how we know that we love fully, enthusiastically. May You use these gifts to touch the people who need Jesus. In His name. Amen. the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. This is love for God: to obey his commands” (1 John 5:2-3).

76 THE PREACHER'S MAGAZINE SPIRITUAL PROSPERITY by Carlton D. Hansen 3 John August 23, 1992

INTRO: Nothing liberates more than the truth (John 8:32). A Christian should personify the truth. Our message today focuses on three men: Gaius, to whom the Epistle was addressed; Diotrephes, possibly a B. We need the example of hospitality (v. 5) leading man in the church who was ambitious and big­ Gaius was hospitable. Although some brethren were oted; and Demetrius, the antithesis of Diotrephes, a strangers, he rendered meaningful Christian service in model churchman of excellent reputation. his usual manner. We should seek to be good Samaritans Of these three men, the biography of Gaius reflects at every opportunity (Heb. 13:2). the work of God producing both godliness and ideal Christian living. Although little is known about him, C. We need the example of service with love (v. 6) what is said is outstanding. The apostle addresses him as John urges Gaius to continue his good work by send­ a dear friend that he truly loves and commends him for ing the brethren “on their way in a manner worthy of his hospitality to the Christian brethren (w. 5-6). God” (v. 6). Gaius was a respected member of a congregation near What we do must be done from a heart of love— for Ephesus around the turn of the century. Jesus and the church. Christian love compels us to serve Written probably between a .d . 80 and 90 as a personal others, even in the face of obstacles. letter, 3 John presents a vivid glimpse of the Church in Not everyone will accept our gift of love. It might its infancy It reveals the problems of the young Chris­ even be misunderstood. Nevertheless, he who gives his tian movement by drawing a comparison between Di­ love will in the end be loved. otrephes and Demetrius. Moreover, the apostle helps us see the difference entire sanctification makes in both at­ III. There Is a Missionary Emphasis (vv. 7-8) titude and conduct. A. We are to go in Christ’s name (v. 7) May we learn from this message how to cultivate “Missionary, go home!” is not a new cry. Harold Lind- Gaius’ character in our public and private lives. sell has noted, “Anti-Christians have shouted it for years. What is relatively new is ‘Missionary, come home!’— the I. There Is a Trilogy of Prosperity (v. 2) proposal for a moratorium on missionaries.” A. Physical prosperity is desired The Church has never been released from its commis­ The apostle prays that Gaius, apparently in poor sion to “go” in the name of Christ. In His name people health, may be as healthy in body as in soul. find release from sin (Acts 4:12). Physical health is one of God’s best gifts to man. In 1800 some 25 percent of the world’s population Sometimes, though, it is not God’s will to grant good was Protestant; approaching mid-20th century it was 8 health, and even the best Christian may suffer ill health. percent. “This is a statistical scalpel laying bare the facts Nevertheless, confidence in God must remain unshaken of our failure as evangelicals to reach across the world. I (Rom. 8:28). do not criticize the few who did what they could—but lament the multitudes of evangelicals who didn’t do B. Material prosperity is desired what they should” (J. B. Chapman). The accumulation of wealth can be either a bane or a As teeming masses of unsaved people grope in spiri­ blessing, depending upon one’s attitude and where he tual darkness, we must respond now— before it is too places his priorities. The Christian views his material late— or give an account at the Judgment for failure to wealth as a trust from God. obey the Great Commission. C. Spiritual prosperity is desired B. We are to give support (v. 8) The most remarkable feature about Gaius was his spir­ By supporting the missionaries, Gaius became a fel­ itual prosperity. A man may have health and wealth, but low worker with them in promoting the truth. Even if his soul is sin-sick, he is a pauper. On the other hand, though some people cannot preach or teach, they can health and wealth may be lost while the soul remains help support those who do. strong. Every true minister of the gospel is worthy of support II. There Are Christian Ideals (vv. 3-6) from the church (Luke 10:7). The minister is not a hire­ A prosperous soul is maintained by following the bib­ ling. Full-time wages for full-time service allows him to minister to the needs of those of his parish and commu­ lical principles that John lays down. nity. A. We need the example of walking in the truth (vv. A church that fails to release its pastor from the bonds 3-4) of secular work is falling short of its Christian responsi­ Jesus is the only Way to heaven 0ohn 14:6). A person bility who accepts Christ as the Way walks in all of the truth Support for God’s servant is a matter of responsible he knows. Gaius’ own peers testified to his faithful walk stewardship and will be closely scrutinized by God (1 in the truth (v. 3). Cor. 4:2).

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 77 IV. There Are Contrasting Attitudes (vv. 9-14) CONCLUSION: What kind of a testimony do we leave behind us? Does A. The church must deal with the problem of pre your life measure up to our words? We are to be living eminence (v. 9) epistles read by all. May we live no less than by this Diotrephes represents the carnal heart. He tried to act ideal. like a little Caesar. His pride led to the dethronement of Christ from his heart. ILLUS. Daniel Webster said, “If we work upon marble, The word “preeminence” occurs only twice in the it will perish; if we work upon bronze, time will efface New Testament (KJV). In Col. 1:18, Paul speaks of Jesus it; if we build temples, they will crumble into dust; but having the “preeminence.” Here, Diotrephes’ downfall if we work upon immortal souls, if we imbue them with was that he substituted self for Christ. just principles of action, with fear of wrong and love of Probably a converted Jew and officer of the church, he right, we engrave on those tables something which time behaved haughtily and without respect for authority cannot obliterate, and which will brighten eternity.” Jesus taught that with greatness comes the responsibility of servanthood (Matt. 20:26-28). ILLUS. There were two boys in the Taylor family. The oldest wanted to make a name for the family, so he turned toward Parliament and fame. The younger boy SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER decided to give his life in service to Christ, so he turned Announcements Friendship in Worship “Family of God” to missionary service in China. Call to Worship Psalm 113 Hudson Taylor died, beloved and known on every con­ Invocation Layman tinent. When you look up the name of the other brother Hymn “O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go” in the encyclopedia to see his accomplishments, it says, Hymn “Open My Eyes, That I May See” “The brother of Hudson Taylor.” Prayer Chorus “Open Our Eyes” Pastoral Prayer and Open Altar B. The church must deal with the problem of mali­ Special Music “Broken and Spilled Out” cious gossip (v. 10) Sanctuary Choir “A New Name in Glory” Someone has aptly said, “Talk is cheap.” Diotrephes Worship with Tithes and Offerings was adept at “cheap talk.” There is not a mightier or Special Music “He Lifted Me” deadlier weapon than the tongue. What has been indeli­ Sermon “SPIRITUAL PROSPERITY” bly impressed upon the heart is bound to come out. Closing Hymn “Have Thy Way, Lord” The oft-quoted wisdom that great minds talk about Benediction ideas, mediocre minds talk about things, and little minds talk about other people may have sprung from Pastoral Prayer Paul’s advice to Timothy (1 Tim. 5:13)- Open the altar for those who wish to gather to pray Malicious gossip ruins families and friendships. It de­ for their own needs or as intercessors. stroys interpersonal relationships. More importantly, it Scripture: “Yet give attention to your servant’s prayer and his plea for mercy, O Lord my God. Hear the cry and infects the soul with a malignant cancer. the prayer that your servant is praying in your presence Paul advised, “Speak evil of no man” (Titus 3:2, KJV). this day” (1 Kings 8:28). If we keep this rule, we shall never have to apologize for Creative Worship Ideas something wrongly said. Offertory Idea C. The church must imitate good (v. 11) Have a layperson give a brief testimony on the ben­ efits of tithing. Man is an imitator. He imitates either good or evil. Read Matt. 6:33. The apostle strongly admonishes Gaius not to imitate Offertory Prayer what is evil. He uses Diotrephes as the example of the Father, we come to You with thankful hearts for all kind of person to be shunned. Your benefits to us. Help us have a world vision for the lost that will cause us to give so that many may D. The church must have a faithful testimony (v. hear the gospel and come to know Christ as their 12) Savior and Lord. Amen. Demetrius represents the fully sanctified heart. He Suggestions was a believer well commended by the apostle. He had Select a layman to read the Call to Worship and of­ so impressed others in his daily walk that their testi­ fer the invocation. mony bore witness to his good works. Even John was Select a second layman to testify to the benefits of willing to vouch for him. He reminds Gaius, “You know tithing. that our witness is true” (NASB). No finer recom­ Use the altar to help people become intercessors mendation could be given. for others’ needs. The world looks at Christianity through shaded At the conclusion of the service, have each family glasses. If the Christian would impress the non-Christian stand together for prayer. Invite families to include sin­ gles in the church or children who do not have families world, he “must also have a good reputation with out­ present. siders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap” (1 Tim. 3:7). He will live in a manner that his works will glorify God (Matt. 5:16).

78 THE PREACHERS MAGAZINE PERSEVERANCE by Carlton D. Hansen Jude 20-25 August 30, 1992

NTRO: times to realize his dream. It consumed 13 years of his life, absorbing every part of his mind, body, and spirit. Jude instructs his readers to build their faith by perse- A crushing blow came on August 2, 1865. He had erance. Then he tells them how to accomplish the build- struggled previous to this for three years to get 10 lead­ ig process. This is an oft-repeated concept throughout the ing British industrialists to underwrite the cost of laying ew Testament. the cable. On this fateful day, the cable snapped, and $5 “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in million lay on the floor of the Atlantic Ocean. lem, because if you do, you will save both yourself and >ur hearers” (1 Tim. 4:16). The average man would have given up in despair. But Field shook his head and said, “This thing must be “You need to persevere so that w hen you have done done.” le will of God, you will receive what he has promised” ieb. 10:36). The next year the cable was successfully laid, and In his book Three Score and Ten, Vance Havner tells Henry, Cyrus Field’s brother, said, “Now the heart of the world beats under the sea.” >w eloquently George W. Truett caused a congregation Cyrus Field persevered because he was determined melt with tears while preaching from 1 Sam. 30:24: that nothing could stop him. He was willing to stick by is his part is that goeth down to the battle, so shall his the stuff, regardless of personal cost, ridicule, misery, or irt be that tarrieth by the stuff” (KJV). pain. “Sticking by the stuff,” perseverance if you will, is vi- lly im portant to Christian living. If we are to be “more than conquerors,” then we, too, must persevere in our quest for spiritual growth. By defining our goals and keeping our eyes fixed on Four thoughts on perseverance stand out in this text. »us, we will not zig and zag after trivial and less >rthy pursuits. We w ill develop one-track minds that lp us “stick by the stuff” regardless of the circum- I. Pray in the Holy Spirit (v. 20) nces. The primary building block in the spiritual founda­ tion is prayer. If the Christian is to throw off every sin ILLUS. A w idow in a retirem ent home was playing and resist the seducer, Satan himself, he must have close dge with three other ladies. A man walked in— a new daily communion with Christ. ident. In every person’s life, there are those times filled with Dne of the ladies waved at him and spoke: “Hello! testings, trials, and discouragements that could become j ’re new here, aren’t you?” the straw that breaks the camel’s back. They cause one to ie replied, “Yes, I am. As a matter of fact, I just moved stand at the brink of despair. Sometimes they are so I was taking a little stroll around to look the place severe that we do not even know how to pray ourselves. :r.” But, if we have lived close to the heart of God, we can mother lady asked, “Where did you move from?” rely on the Holy Spirit to aid us in praying for our weak­ le replied, “Oh, I just was released after 20 years in nesses (Rom. 8:26-27; Eph. 6:18). Quentin.” urprised, one of the ladies asked, “San Quentin? ILLUS. A little girl was kneeling beside her bed. “Dear at were you in for?” God,” she said, “if You’re there and You hear my prayer, Ie said, “Well, I murdered my wife.” could You please just touch me?” Just then she felt a mmediately this little widow lady perked up and touch. 1: “Oh, then you’re single?” Excitedly she exclaimed, “Thank You, God, for touch­ hat’s a one-track mind. ing me!” 7e need to develop one-track minds—to keep our Looking up, she saw her older sister and got a little ids on those things that are really important to our suspicious. istian development. We will “throw off everything “Did you touch me?” hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and . . . The sister answered, “Yes, I did.” with perseverance the race marked out for us” (Heb. “What did you do that for?” she asked. “God told me to,” was the reply. 0- determined person is not whimsical nor whining in Even as we are asking God for His help, He is provid­ ude. He exhibits a positive faith that causes him to ing the answers for our needs. et himself and his failures and “press toward the k for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ II. Keep Yourself in God’s Love (v. 21) s” (Phil. 3:14, KJV). It is one thing for us to love God; it is an even greater thing for Him to love us. Consider how God shows His LUS. Cyrus W. Field was responsible for the inge- love to us. y and daring faith behind the laying of the Atlantic God demonstrated the extravagance of His love by al­ e. Here was a man who had tried and failed many lowing Jesus to die for us while we were still in our sins.

JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 79 He demonstrated the power of His love when He raised When he retired, he had played on 14 pennant- Jesus from the grave. He demonstrates the mercy of His winning teams. He had hit 358 home runs, had made the love as He forgives our sins when we come to Him in all-star team numerous times, was voted the league’s repentance. He demonstrates the authority of His love most valuable player three times, and had set 18 World by making us victors over sin’s power. Series records. Today you know him as Yogi Berra. He was deter­ III. Be Merciful to the Doubter (v. 22) mined. He persevered! Jude was looking beyond the present into the future It pays to persevere, for the Lord has promised, “To when Jesus shall return, an event early Christians looked him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the for intently and imminently. “The blessed hope— the tree of life, w hich is in the paradise of God” (Rev. 2:7). glorious appearing” (Titus 2:13) for them was a present reality. Many doubted. They did not believe Jesus would re­ turn in their lifetime. Jude says, “Show them mercy.” Thomas doubted Jesus’ resurrection, but Jesus showed mercy to him. He also gave Thomas wise direction: “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and SUGGESTED WORSHIP ORDER put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe” (John Announcements Friendship in Worship “Family of God” 20:27). Call to Worship Heb. 11 ;32— 12:2, 28 In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “Blessed are Hymn “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” the merciful, for they will be shown mercy” (Matt. 5:7). Hymn “Trust in the Lord" We are to encourage the doubter and help him see Prayer Choruses “Gentle Shepherd” that faith in God works and that eternal life is a reality, “Give Them All to Jesus” both now and in heaven. Pastoral Prayer and Open Altar Special Music “In the Midst of It AH” IV. Snatch the Fallen (v. 23) Sanctuary Choir “More Love to Thee” The vivid symbolism here is one rescuing a person Worship with Tithes and Offerings from a burning building who is in peril of perishing un­ Special Music “Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone?” less someone saves him. The same thought is conveyed Sermon “PERSEVERANCE” in Amos 4:11 as a “firebrand plucked out of the burn­ Closing Hymn “I’ll Live for Him” ing” (KJV; cf. Zech. 3:2). Time is crucial. Benediction This gives new significance to the urgency of the Great Commission, placing an awesome responsibility Pastoral Prayer on Christians to win the lost at any cost. Lord, we come to You with open hearts and minds to When we view our world lost without Christ, of fam­ hear the truth of Your Word. Speak to us and help us to be obedient. We bring to You those who are hurting and ily, friends, and neighbors sinking into hell, lost for eter­ ask that You touch them with Your presence. Fill this nity, it causes us to realize that some things we think are place of worship with Your shekinah glory, we pray. important pale into insignificance. Amen. CONCLUSION: You may want to quote Harry Emerson Fosdick’s fa­ mous prayer for his congregation, “Somewhere in this ILLUS. It was the spring of 1947. A new young base­ congregation is someone who desperately needs what I ball player had shown up in Yankee Stadium. He was a am going to say; O God, help me get to him.” catcher. No one ever looked less like an athlete than this Creative Worship Ideas guy. People and sportswriters wondered if the Yankee or­ Offertory Idea ganization had lost its mind. He was strange looking. He Remind the congregation that giving is as much a was short, squat, rotund, and clumsy. He looked more part of worship as is singing, praying, and preaching. like something out of a circus than a professional ball­ Instruct them to give cheerfully and joyfully. player. They made fun of the way he walked and the way Offertory Prayer Dear Lord, we thank You for Your bountiful gifts. he looked with a catcher’s mask on. He swung at bad May we give back to You from our abundance. And pitches, he had problems behind the plate, and his may You bless us in the measure in which we give. throwing was wild. Though criticized and ridiculed, he Amen. would not quit. He was determined to stay with it. Work­ Suggestion ing hard to overcome his shortcomings as a catcher, Today you are going to exhort your people to follow spending extra hours in the batting cage, studying rival Jude’s call to perseverance. Look for creative ways to hitters until he knew their weakness, he eventually include stories of those who have lived as Jude in­ turned the table of public opinion. He won the respect structs. of his teammates and the admiration of the opposing teams. He became one of America’s most lovable person­ alities.

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