Emmaus Bible College 2570 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA 52001

A PRACTICUM OF CARE IN THE LOCAL CHURCH Journey | From the President Journey | magazine Calvinism Features/Departments

As I travel among our constituency, from time to Emmaus’ doctrinal statement is easily available Journey Magazine, volume 5, issue 2,Winter 2007 time I’m asked, “Is Emmaus Calvinistic?” I usually on-line at www.emmaus.edu. It has one statement Caring for the Family of God Dr. William McRae try to answer in light of the concern that may have that relates to this question. It reads, “Every child 8 Journey Magazine is published by Emmaus Bible College, Dubuque, Iowa, USA. prompted the inquiry. Emmaus’ teaching is nothing of God possesses eternal life; and being justified, With family values under siege, this article will redirect you to the biblical like the offensive theology against which they have sanctified, and sealed with the Holy Spirit, is safe imperatives of caring for the church family, with special emphasis on encouragement. Opinions expressed in articles published in Journey Magazine are not necessarily those of Emmaus been warned. They have no need to fear. Our and secure for all eternity.” Our entire faculty Bible College. teaching is moderate, falling in the spectrum annually subscribes to our doctrinal statement and Loving the Lost between consistent Calvinism and Arminianism. thus, all of us hold to the doctrine of the security Editor: David A. Glock 15 Dr. Larry Dixon Assistant Editors: Ken Daughters, Ken Murray Our faculty is not loyal to either doctrinal system. of the believer. Bible Editor: Dr. David J. MacLeod We seek to be biblical in our explanation of the If God so loved the world, so should we! Dr. Dixon gives us practical suggestions in Circulation Manager: Angie Hubbard demonstrating our care for those who need to hear the Gospel. Design, Lay-Out: Jesse Lange, Big Behr Design Co. relevant texts, balancing all that God’s Word says on A friend of the college encouraged his children to Online-Journey: Jesse Lange the subject. We do not indoctrinate our students in come study with us. His personal views were nearer a negative manner. We teach them to think critical- to Arminianism than Calvinism and he had some Caring in Crisis How to contact us: Journey Magazine ly, and equip them with the tools to exegete the trepidation that his children would encounter Stan Farmer Emmaus Bible College biblical passages for themselves. Our professors professors who were more Calvinistic than he 22 Some cases of caring go beyond the capacity of the compassionate Christian. 2570 Asbury Road teach from their own perspectives and are respectful would like. He had a friend on the faculty with A structured setting with experienced counselors is occasionally needed for crisis caring. Dubuque, IA 52001 of the views of our students as we seek to understand whom he discussed his concern. Though their Stan Farmer of His Mansion takes us into this realm of caring. (800) 397-2425 the Scripture together. As a faculty we represent the interpretations of key passages on the subject www.emmaus.edu range of beliefs found in North American assemblies. differed, they trusted each other enough that his Editor: [email protected] Caring for the Church Theologically @ children came, thrived, and enjoyed their Emmaus Subscriptions: journey emmaus.edu Dr. David MacLeod College Admissions: [email protected] Though the brethren assemblies are united on the experience immensely. In the end, his children 27 Alumni: [email protected] doctrines of the church and of end times, we have and he are completely satisfied with the education The highest form of caring for the Church is to provide the members of the Church with Correspondence School: [email protected] never considered it necessary to unite on the they received. an understanding of the Bible — all that is needed for faith and practice. This article by Believers Stewardship Services: [email protected] Dr. MacLeod challenges the leadership of every church to this high standard. Other: [email protected] question of Calvinism vs. Arminianism. Throughout the last two centuries, our leaders and An Emmaus education is one you can trust. Journey Magazine is available online at: www.emmaus.edu teachers have expressed a variety of viewpoints on The Journey of Life this subject and we have tolerated a range of views C. William Pollard Journey Magazine will consider, but is not responsible 45 for,unsolicited articles. Send submissions to Editor at among us. There is no need for us to divide over Share with the students of Emmaus Bible College in this Convocation address given the address above. Submissions cannot be returned this issue today. The type of Calvinism I hear by C. William Pollard, delivered at the beginning of this school year. unless accompanied by SASE. Advanced query is warnings about is a supralapsarian, double-predesti- recommended. nation form (sometimes called hyper-Calvinism) that is extremely rare even among consistent Travel Guides ...... 2 Calvinists. None of us believe in limited atone- Kenneth Alan Daughters To the Praise of His Glory ...... 4 ment or particular redemption. All of us preach President, A Word along the Way ...... 49 the gospel widely calling on all everywhere to Emmaus Bible College Dr. MacLeod Asks ...... 52 repent and believe in Jesus Christ as Savior. We On The Road ...... 56 require our course in Personal Evangelism for all News from Emmaus ...... 58 of our degree programs. Our missions major has prepared a large portion of the missionaries now serving on the field through CMML. Journey | Travel Guides Journey | magazine TravelGuides

Goodness, for God’s Sake Beyond the First Visit:The Complete Guide Christine Schneider to Connecting Guests to Your Church ECS Ministries, 2004 Gary McIntosh The apostle Paul filled his letter to his young co-worker,Titus, with practical Baker, 2006 teaching and convincing motivation on being good. Join Christine Schneider at This practical book offers sound advice on assessing and improving the ways in her kitchen table in this inspiring study especially for women. Discover how Paul’s which churches attract people, welcome them, do follow-up, and bring them into instructions to believers on a Mediterranean island in the 1st century relate to the church family. you and me today. In addition, you will examine the excellent woman in Proverbs 31 for down-to-earth applications that will bring the teachings of the book of The Gentle Art of Hospitality:Warm Touches Titus into your home and church. of Welcome and Grace Lessons in Trust from Women in Messiah’s Family Tree Alda Ellis Harvest House, 2007 Christine Schneider ECS Ministries, 2004 The Hospitality Commands Lessons in Trust removes the veil of mystique from the lives of Eve, Sarah, and Alex Strauch Mary to demonstrate how their lives relate to ours. Now. In the 21st century. Lewis & Roth, 1993 With no examples to imitate, these women followed God through the uncharted wilderness of their experiences, to emerge as patterns for us.Their stories include Hospitality plays crucial roles in encouraging unity, evangelism, and many spiritual some of the same struggles we deal with every day: temptations, grief, weariness, gifts in the local church. Strauch shows the Scripture’s teaching along with practical confusion, and fear.Their lives were defined by the degree to which they trusted hints that he and his wife have learned over the years. God. And they learned—sometimes too late—that God’s way really does work best. In spite of their weaknesses and sins, they showed glorious moments of trust. A Life That Says Welcome: Simple Ways God blessed them by including them in the Messiah’s family tree. If we learn to trust God more fully, what blessings might He have in store for each of us? to Open Your Heart and Home to Others Karen Ehman 101 Ways to Help People in Need Revell, 2006 Steve and Janie Sjogren The author of “Homespun Gifts from the Heart” now offers a practical, no-pain, Navpress, 2002 no craft, queenship-required course on practicing hospitality—the kind that helps women open their hearts and homes. The Sjogrens present practical and creative ways for readers and their churches to reach out to people with physical, emotional and relational needs in their neighborhoods, communities, country and world. The 21 Most Powerful Minutes in a Leader’s Day: Revitalize Your Spirit and Empower Your Leadership How Do I Help a Hurting Friend? John C. Maxwell Rod Wilson Thomas Nelson, 2000 Baker, 2006 A bestselling author and leadership expert shows how setting aside 21 minutes every day to consider critical issues can make any leader more effective.Twenty- This kindhearted, comprehensive, and practical guide to ministry through friend- one powerful statements help leaders maximize their assets and overcome their ship shows readers how to help their friends and family overcome a wide array of problems, including self-image, grief, and depression. weaknesses.

Face to Face: Meditations on Friendships and Hospitality To order contact John Rush at the Emmaus Bible College Library Steve Wilkins ([email protected] or 563-588-8000 ext. 1003) Canon, 2002

2 Journey: Winter 2007 Journey: Winter 2007 3 Journey | To the Praise of His Glory Journey | magazine

tongues. His extended line of rea- • Tongues are a sign for was being communicated. To the Praise of His Glory #4 soning is provided in verses 1-25. unbelievers, but prophecy Intelligibility is important! The main elements of his argument is for those who believe Paul’s second reference to are summarized below: (vv. 22-23). musical expression comes in verse Principles of Music Ministry • One who speaks in tongues • Prophecy can bring convic- 15 as he argues that for edification does not speak to men, only tion to unbelievers (v. 24). to occur, both the intellect and to God. One who prophesies • Prophecy can lead to true spirit must be involved: “What is Lisa Beatty from 1 Corinthians 14 speaks to men for edification, worship (v. 25). the outcome then? I shall pray with exhortation, and consolation the spirit and I shall pray with the (vv. 2-3). Paul references musical expres- mind also; I shall sing with the • One who speaks in a tongue sion twice in this section of the spirit and I shall sing with the The Old Testament is full of rich from brief passages like Ephesians in the early assembling of believers: edifies himself. One who chapter. In verses 7-8, he uses mind also.” In this section, Paul detail about the use of music in 5:18b-19 and its parallel passage in “What is the outcome then, brethren? prophesies edifies the church musical examples to illustrate his appears to apply his statements worship and praise. In particular, 1 Colossians 3:16-17. While these When you assemble, each one has a (v. 4). point about the need for intelligi- about verbal expression to musical and 2 Chronicles and the book of sections of Scripture provide signif- psalm, has a teaching, has a revela- • Edifying the church is of bility: “Yet even lifeless things, either expression as well. Psalms provide information about icant clues to the role of musical tion, has a tongue, has an interpreta- much greater value than flute or harp, in producing a sound, if The balance of chapter 14 is the organization of musicians, their expression in the church, it would tion. Let all things be done for edifica- edifying of self (v. 5). they do not produce a distinction in Paul’s instructions to the church training and responsibilities, the be difficult to build a comprehen- tion.” Clearly, psalm singing had a • Unless true communication the tones, how will it be known what based on his prior argument. instruments employed, the songs sive philosophy for the use of music place in these early meetings of the takes place, there is no bene- is played on the flute or on the harp? Again, these instructions are sung, and the role of music in in the church based only on these church. Verse 26 is the centerpiece fit (vv. 6-9). For if the bugle produces an indistinct summarized below: events such as the dedication of short passages. One must supple- of a more extended passage dealing • It is not sufficient to speak sound, who will prepare himself for • The church meeting should the Temple and the feasts of Israel. ment this direct teaching about with the exercise of spiritual gifts. a known language if the battle?” This second reference is a be participatory (v. 26). In contrast, the New Testament, music with more general biblical The entire chapter is rich with hearers do not understand compelling example. Even as • The content should be while affirming the place of music principles that can be applied to principles that can be appropriately it (vv. 10-11). recently as the last century, the varied (v. 26). in the New Testament church, music ministry. applied to music ministry. • Seek the gifts that best edify military used series of tones played • All should be done for provides little detail about its use. 1 Corinthians 14 provides both In this section of Corinthians, the church (v. 12). on the bugle to communicate edification (v. 26). Most of what is known about the direct teaching and more general Paul is in the midst of an extended • In order to edify, both the commands to soldiers on the • One who speaks in tongues role of music in the early church principles about the use of music discussion related to spiritual gifts. intellect and the spirit must battlefield. If these tones were should be silent if there is is gleaned in the church. Verse 26 provides In chapter 14, Paul argues that the be engaged played “indistinctly,” soldiers would evidence of musical expression gift of prophecy is to be more (vv. 13-17). not know what order earnestly desired than the gift of • Paul reaffirms his desire for gifts that edify others (vv. 18-19). Journey | magazine Journey | magazine

no interpreter (vv. 27-28). “What about instrumental music? out the chapter is that all things • Participation should be Does it have a place in music min- should be done for edification. This accomplished in an orderly istry?” Yes. Instrumental music can should be a foundational criterion Life is a Practicum manner (vv. 29-33). be very effective in ministry, but for music ministry. Any preparation Dave Glock, Editor • Women should not partici- this is most often the case when for ministry should involve asking pate audibly (vv. 34-36). the melody is easily recognized by some important questions: the listeners, allowing them to The purposes for the meeting of the whenever you see the church meet- Ephesians 4:11-13 reflect on the text as the selection • Does this musical choice further In verses 37-38, Paul states that church in New Testament times are ing as a local body, and raised to And He Himself gave some to be is played. Instrumental music that the purposes of God for the these instructions are not given abundantly clear in the text of the level of commandments of the apostles, some prophets, some does not have a recognizable church? under his own authority; they are Scriptures: Lord as the apostle Paul concludes evangelists, and some pastors and melody tied to a familiar text the Lord’s commands. Those who his correction of church life at teachers, for the equipping of the should be used sparingly in my • Does this musical choice reflect do not comply will not be recog- Acts 2:42 Corinth. saints for the work of ministry, for opinion. only my personal preferences or nized to participate. And they continued steadfastly But, the spiritual life of the the edifying of the body of Christ, Verses 13-17 emphasize the does it meet the requirement of The final verses of the chapter in the apostles’ doctrine Christian is not limited to simply till we all come to the unity of the importance of intellectual and spir- edification of others? restate Paul’s main themes: and fellowship, “when you come together as a faith and of the knowledge of the itual engagement in both prayer “Therefore, my brethren, desire in the breaking of bread, church.” As in the early church, Son of God, to a perfect man, to and singing. Without this engage- • Is the text intelligible? earnestly to prophesy, and do not and in prayers. so now, the whole church gathers the measure of the stature of the ment, there is no edification. It is Remember, intelligibility leads to forbid to speak in tongues. But let for only a few hours throughout an fullness of Christ. so easy to sing familiar hymns or true communication, and all things be done properly and in 1 Corinthians entire week – three or four hours spiritual songs without focusing on true communication leads to an orderly manner” (vv. 39-40). 11:18 on a Sunday, perhaps an hour or It should be noted that the gifts the words. Such inattention does edification. Which of these lessons, then, For first of all, when you come two during the work week, and listed in this section relate to the not produce edification. To accom- can appropriately be applied to the together as a church . . . the additional service of choice for teaching and care of the church as plish God’s purposes, our minds • Does this musical choice engage practice of music ministry in the particular groups. It looks like ten well as the outreach to the unsaved must be focused on the text as we both the mind and the spirit? church? 11:20 hours of gathering as a body would world in evangelism. sing. This, however, is not suffi- Both are needed for edification. Verses 4-5 teach that edifying Therefore when you come together be the maximum for most of us. A properly functioning church cient. Our spirits must be engaged others is of greater value than edify- in one place . . . Ten hours a week out of 168 hours! equips the saints for service to the as well. One is reminded of Christ’s Careful consideration of these ing oneself. This is true of music I would think perfect attendance church and to the world. If we have words in John 4:24: “God is spirit, issues will go a long way in ministry as well as the spoken word. 14:23 would be easily reached, but that’s been equipped to do the work of and those who worship Him must helping us provide music ministry It is sometimes tempting to choose Therefore if the whole church another story. the ministry, we should be involved worship in spirit and in truth.” Prayer that honors God and builds up musical selections based on our comes together in one place . . . The spiritual life of a Christian, — if we care! and singing are not simply intellec- His people. own preferences. Those with ✟ however, is 24/7! It is not to This issue of Journey extends tual exercises; these activities, responsibility for music ministry 14:26 observe others doing church and our discussion of the Caring through which we communicate must make choices for the edifica- How is it then, brethren? the ministry of the church. It is to Church. Please interact with areas with God, should involve our tion of the whole body, not the Whenever you come together . . . be continuously involved in the of personal caring. whole selves, mind and spirit. preferences of a few. work of the ministry — when the Verses 29-33 teach that partici- Verses 6-11 focus on the impor- 14:37 whole church gathers, and when • Caring for the Family pation in church meetings should tance of intelligibility in communi- If anyone thinks himself to be we minister individually to others • Caring for the Unsaved be done in an orderly manner. This cation. This, too, is important in Lisa Beatty a prophet or spiritual, let him in the normal routines of life — at • Caring in Crisis is, of course, true of music ministry. musical expression. If words cannot Lisa Beatty is the Vice President for Academic acknowledge that the things which work, at home, and in the neigh- • Caring through Effective ministry is well planned, Affairs at Emmaus Bible College and has been a be understood, true communica- I write to you are the command- borhood. Theological Teaching well rehearsed, and well organized. faculty member in the Music Ministry department tion does not take place. Without since 1992. Lisa and her husband, Kevin have ments of the Lord. The functioning purpose of the Our sacrifices of praise should be two teenage daughters. true communication, edification church is to equip the saints to do WHO CARES? the best we can bring. does not take place. Reflecting on The regular practice of gather- the work of the ministry. The Christian cares 24/7! Paul’s main emphasis through- this idea may cause one to ask: ing is stated in Acts 2:42, illustrated

6 Journey: Winter 2007 Journey: Winter 2007 7 Journey | magazine Caring for the Family of God Caring for the Family of God Editor’s Note: This article is an edited legged wobble. A few steps He could have ignored his son; he Dr. William J. McRae transcript of a message delivered by from the finish line Jim could have been embarrassed by his Edited by Mark R. Stevenson Bill McRae at the 2007 “Iron Redmond let his son go so he son; he could have yelled at his Sharpens Iron” conference held on could cross the line alone, and son. But he came alongside to help the campus of Emmaus Bible College. then embraced him again. him toward the finish line. “This is his last Olympics,” Jim My all-time favorite sports story Redmond said. He worked a) Compliment If you look at the way the verb is of Derek Redmond. Derek eight years for this, and I wasn’t – represented Britain in the 1992 going to let him not finish.” (parakaleo) is used in the New Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Testament, you will discover that Spain. As he was running the 400- When I first read the story I there are four aspects to “coming meter semi-final race he pulled a found myself saying, “Wow. What alongside.” In Hebrews 10, the idea hamstring muscle. The story that a Dad!” Today my response is, is to come alongside people who unfolds was vividly told on the “That’s exactly what it means to are being faithful to God and com- front page of a Toronto newspaper care.” In this article we want to ask: pliment them. They are persevering as follows: what does caring look like in like under some persecution. But they your assembly? How important is it? are being faithful to God in spite of He limped and hobbled around What does it take to be that kind the defections around them. So the the final half of the 400-meter of person? author comes along here and he semi final, his face contorted commends and compliments them with pain and tears, but deter- I. The Mandate in their faithfulness. mined to finish, though the for Care-Giving b) Comfort race was over and his Olympic The mandate for this ministry In 2 Corinthians 1:4-6, you discov- dream was shattered by the comes from Hebrews 10:24-25: er that the verb used in a very pop of a muscle. The sight was different way. There it is translated too much for his father Jim And let us consider how to spur “to comfort.” Yet it is exactly the Redmond sitting near the top one another on toward love and same word. It is coming alongside of the stands. He rushed down good deeds. Let us not give up the people who are hurting. When flights of stairs, blew past the meeting together, as is the habit of you come alongside people who are security people, and out onto some. But let us encourage one hurting, you are not coming along- the track. “I wasn’t interested another, and all the more as you side to compliment them but to in what they were saying,” Jim see the day approaching. comfort them. Yet you are doing it Redmond said, “I don’t speak for the same purpose: to assist them any Spanish, and you don’t “Come Alongside” To... to the finish line. need a credential in emergen- We sometimes use these verses as cies.” Jim Redmond, 49 years of a bit of a club to force people to c) Challenge age, caught up with his son at come to church. But that is not the In Romans 12:1, the verb is trans- the top of the final curve, put- point. Did you see the instruction lated, “beseech” or “urge.” You ting one arm around Derek’s nestled in the midst of verse 25? remember the verse: “I beseech you, waist, another around his left “Let us encourage one another.” The therefore, brethren...” This is not wrist. They moved in tandem verb translated “let us encourage” confirming faithful people or com- for a few meters. Then Derek literally means “to come alongside.” forting hurting people. This is chal- Redmond stopped, threw his That is what caring for the family lenging complacent people. It is arms around his father’s shoul- of God involves — coming along- getting behind them and giving ders and sobbed. Then they side. That is what it means to care. them a little nudge. It is challeng- started again with their three- Jim Redmond had lots of options. ing people who need to be moved

Journey: Winter 2007 9 Journey | magazine Journey | magazine out of their comfort zone to do How Important Is It? How to Break a Heart When mom called them for supper, through it. Humiliated and embar- 1. A Spoken Word what the truth of God has called There is a very significant connec- A number of years ago Brad Sham, they would go in and put away the rassed he sat down. He renewed his Proverbs 12:25 says, “Anxiety weighs them to do. tion between verses 24 and 25 of a sportswriter in the US went to gloves and every time his dad vow: “I’ll never speak in public a heart down, but a good word makes Hebrews 10. Verse 24 talks about see his young son play basketball. would ruffle his hair and say, “Jim, again.” When the service was it glad.” The Japanese have a d) Confront the effect: He sat in the bleachers behind the some day you’re going to become a being closed in prayer, Larry got up proverb that says, “One kind word Finally, in 1 Thessalonians 5:14, father of one of the other boys. All big league catcher.” And one day from his seat and started down the warms three winter months.” On you discover the verb is used in a “And let us consider how to spur through the game that father yelled Jim Sudbury became a big league aisle. He wanted to get out the one occasion Mark Twain said, “I very different context. Here the one another toward love and good at his boy. After the game was over catcher! You want to make a differ- door before the service was over can live a whole week on one good context is coming alongside people deeds.” the two men were standing in the ence in people’s lives? Try encour- because he did not want to face compliment.” That is the power of who are a little out of step (unruly, runway waiting for their sons. The agement. anyone. An elder heard the ruffle, encouragement. It is coming along disobedient to the word), in order Love speaks of character, and son of the other man came out first. On one occasion the evangelist opened his eyes and saw Larry mak- with a spoken word. to confront them. deeds describe conduct. These He ran up to his father and said, Bill Glass was speaking to a thou- ing it for the door. The elder got up We can do that, for example, A Four-Dimensional Ministry effects are the result of the cause “Dad, guess what? We won!” The sand men in prison. He said, “How and met Larry at the door. He put with our Sunday school teachers. So this verb gives us four perspec- of verse 25: father looked down at his boy and many of you men had parents that his arm around his shoulder and he Crabb tells of coming to a church tives on caring for the family of said, “Huh. No thanks to you,” and told you one day you were going to said, “Larry, I want you to know, one Sunday to speak. He arrived God. It involves encouraging, com- “Let us not give up meeting walked away. If you want to break end up in jail?” He said he looked whenever you do anything for the early and attended the adult Bible forting, exhorting, and admonish- together as is the habit of the heart of a boy, that’s the way to out over the audience and could glory of God you’ve got my 100% class. The regular teacher was not ing. It is interesting to note that some, but let us encourage one do it. hardly find a man who did not raise support!” Larry traces his worldwide there, and so they had a young fel- the noun form of this verb is used another, all the more as you see Margaret is a lady who in her his hand. You see, you tell a boy ministry in Christian counseling low teaching for the first time. to describe the Holy Spirit — the the day approaching.” childhood days was a friend of my often enough that he is going to today back to that man who had a After the class, Larry wanted to paraclete. In the New Testament it wife. One day we were visiting with end up in jail, and the chances are word of life for him. You want to make his way up to the front to is translated as “the comforter” or So verse 25 is the cause, and her. She told us of a tension that he will end up in jail. make a difference in people’s lives? encourage him. But there was a “the helper.” He is the one who verse 24 is the effect. The effect had existed between her and her Larry Crabb, the well-known Try encouragement. man in front of him who got to the comes alongside us to help us is the development of Christian mother throughout her life. We Christian counselor, grew up in the Bible teacher John Stott says young man first. Now, just get the reach the finish line and end the character and service. If you are asked her, “How did it start?” She assemblies in Stratford, Illinois. In this: “I thank God for the man picture. Here is a young fellow race well. a Christian parent or a Sunday replied, “I believe it stems back to his fine book Encouragement: The who led me to Christ, and for the teaching the Bible class for the school teacher, that is one of the the day I brought home a report Key to Caring, he tells the story of extraordinary devotion with which first time, and afterward a man biggest challenges in your life. How card in grade 5 or 6. I had done his problem with a speech impedi- he nurtured me in the early years of approaches him. What do you II. The Ministry of do you motivate your children or well in all of my subjects except ment in his youth. He was the pres- my Christian life. He wrote me think that man said to him? He Encouragement students to grow in Christian char- arithmetic, and the only comment ident of his senior class in high every day for, I think, seven years. said, “Will our regular teacher be school. One day they had an He also prayed for me every day. I A caring church needs to be acter and service? my mother made when she looked back next week?” You want to tear assembly and the principal, without can only begin to guess what I owe involved in all four dimensions, but Ask yourself, “Who have been at the report card with A’s in every- the heart out of a potential Sunday warning, called Larry to come up under God to such a faithful friend for the purposes of this article, we the major motivators and influ- thing else, but a C in arithmetic, school teacher, that’s the way to do and make a little announcement to and pastor.” That’s the influence of will only consider the first dimen- encers in my spiritual life and min- was ‘why couldn’t you have gotten it. But if you want to make a differ- the whole student body. When this ministry of encouragement. If sion: the ministry of encourage- istry?” How did they do it? That is an A in arithmetic?’” Margaret ence in his life, then try a word of Larry came up, his speech impedi- you want to make a difference in ment. The gift of encouragement is the question. How do you motivate then filled up with tears and said, encouragement. It makes all the ment clicked in and his stuttering people’s lives, stop criticizing, stop one of the most needed gifts in the your children? How do you moti- “You know, I’ve hated arithmetic difference in the world. was such that he could not get the complaining, stop ignoring, and church today. If your assembly has a vate your spouse? How do you spur ever since that day.” If you want to Generally it does not mean a words out. He was humiliated. He stop gossiping. Instead, try encour- band of people who have the gift on the elders, the Sunday school break the heart of a young lady, lot to a preacher or teacher to say, went down, sat in his chair and aging them! then you are a fortunate assembly! teachers, the youth leaders? Is it by that’s the way to do it. “That was good.” If you want to said, “I will never speak in public Thank God for people who have criticizing them or belittling them? encourage him, tell him what it Try Encouragement again.” that gift. But that does not let the Is it by ignoring them or gossiping III. The Techniques meant to you. Tell him what you about them? Hebrews 10:25 says it When Jim Sudbury’s dad came A couple of years later he was for Encouragement learned or how it has helped you. rest of us off because Hebrews 10 home from work they would often is by encouraging them. at the Lord’s Supper in his assembly The Scriptures give us some tech- Tell him next Sunday how it says that we are all to be take out the baseball gloves and and without thinking, he stood up niques for carrying out this wonder- changed what happened in your encouragers. play catch in the backyard. Dad to pray, and the speech impediment ful work of encouragement. life through the week — because pitched the ball, and Jim caught it. clicked in and he couldn’t get he wants to make a difference.

10 : Winter 2007 Journey Journey: Winter 2007 11 Journey | magazine Journey | magazine

They have studied all week for that down the hall from the living room women especially. As I hold their encourage. Number one on the list says, “I want to tell you about looked out and there was Barbara. class. They don’t want somebody to into the kitchen, I looked on the hand and pray for them they was to listen. There are probably Onesiphorus — what a guy he is. After the service her first question tell them they did good! They want wall and there was a letter I had squeeze my hand tighter and few things that can be more He came along and he served me, to me was: “How is...?” Well, I gave someone say, “You’ve really helped written to Ted. He had it framed tighter. Now, it may be the signal encouraging for a person than to and he helped me, and he did this her a little hug. I said, “Thanks. me understand that text.” “I had a and hung it on his wall. In the let- to keep the prayer a little shorter, have some else listen to him or her. for me. What an encouragement!” You have no idea what that means problem and what you said this ter I simply commented on his but I don’t think that is it. I do not I know you want to preach at your A wonderful way to encourage peo- to me to have a person who cares morning will help me deal with it.” leading of the service one Sunday know all it means to them but I do teenagers. But maybe what you ple is simply to serve them. enough to really pray.” You want to That’s the way to encourage a morning. Ted was a mature busi- know it means a lot. It is true we need to do is to listen to them. encourage somebody? Then try young Bible teacher. Next week he nessman, but it meant so much to need to be careful about touching They need to be able to talk to 8. Prayer praying for them, specifically, faith- is going to study like he has never him he framed the thing! You want today. We need to be very discreet, Dad and let Dad listen. It is an Barbara was one of my great fully, diligently. studied before because now he to make a difference in people’s and very wise, and very careful enormously influential thing, encouragers. She was a Navigator knows there are some people who lives? Then a note of encourage- about it. But sometimes a gentle that listening ear. who attended our church. One day IV. The Profile are looking for a word from God. ment can make all the difference touch says a whole lot more than a she came up after the Sunday of an Encourager 5. Hospitality morning service and said, “Bill, I’ve It is often said that great in the world. pile of words. It is a technique for What kind of a person does it take Paul comes to the city of Corinth been sent to Europe. I’m going to preachers make great churches. encouraging people. You are com- to be an encourager? Let me intro- 3. A Gentle Touch in Acts 18 and Priscilla and Aquila be away for two years and I’d like But the reverse is also true: great ing alongside people and letting duce you to Joseph, because he is A gentle touch is a significant take him home. They exercise hos- to pray for you while I’m in Europe. churches make great preachers. them know you are with them. the model for what we have been thing. Have you ever wondered pitality. What a wonderful way to Give me a prayer request.” Well, I They make great youth leaders and talking about. Of course you don’t why Jesus touched that leper in 4. A Listening Ear encourage people — opening up thought to myself, “Now this is a Bible study teachers. The way they know him as Joseph. He was such a Mark 1:41? He did not have to Among the characters of the Bible, your home to them, sharing a meal gal who is serious.” So I said, “Barb, do it is by coming alongside with a model that the disciples gave him touch him to heal him. What do Job’s friends are generally not high- with them. Hospitality is a mark of give me a week to think about it.” word of encouragement. The amaz- the nickname, “Son of Encourage- you think that touch meant to that ly regarded. But if they had just a caring church. So, I thought about it all week. ing thing is, any of us can do it! ment,” which in the language of leper? Here is a man with leprosy. kept their mouths shut they would Next Sunday morning I gave her All it takes is a spoken word. the New Testament, is Barnabas. He His wife has not touched him for have changed their reputation 6. Gifts my prayer request. It was something is the epitome of encouragement. 2. A Written Word years. He has a couple of grown entirely. They would have been Then there were the Philippians. about my character and my spiritu- If there is anything more effective daughters. He was not able to be at among the heroes of the Bible! For They sent Paul a gift and he had al walk with God. Two years later than a spoken word, it is a written their weddings or get a hug and a the first seven days, they never not received a gift for a long time. I stood up to preach word. A note or letter is not just an kiss from them on that wedding spoke a word to Job. They just lis- There he was in prison, and they and I off-the-cuff comment you have day. Now those girls have daugh- tened. But these three friends made sent a gift. You read Philippians 4 made on Sunday. It is something ters. He can see them from a dis- a serious mistake. They opened and you find yourself saying, “That that you have taken time to give tance, but he could never touch their mouths and wrecked their gift really meant a lot to Paul. some thought to. them. They could never sit on his reputation! Look at the way he describes The nice thing about a written knee and put their arms around his A survey was taken among it, and how he talks about word is that you can keep it! You neck. When he walked in public he Lutherans in the Midwest United it. That gift was such an can read it again and again. I declared himself to be “unclean” so States. The survey listed 115 verbs encouragement to received one of those letters from no one would touch him by acci- and asked people to list them in him.” my daughter a year or two ago and dent. He had not been touched for order of priority as to what they 7. Acts I kept it in my bedside table for six years, and Jesus came along and expected from their pastors and of Service weeks! touched him! Christian leaders. The results are Consider I practiced this while in pas- When I visit people in the hos- a little surprising. Preaching was Onesiphorus toral ministry, but I never realized pital to pray with them, especially number twenty-two on the list. (2 Tim. 1:16-18). how important it was until one day elderly people, I like to take their Number five was to pray; number Paul writes to I went to Ted’s home for a social hand and pray for them. I have four was to love; number three was Timothy and engagement. As I was walking discovered something about older to inspire and number two was to

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He Sacrifices His Rights He Is Content to of men and women who are good and Privileges Turn Over the Leadership encouragers. I want to urge you to Loving the We first see Barnabas selling his Before long they were out on the commit yourself to the methodolo- property to give to the poor. Of first missionary journey and for a gy laid out in Scripture for motivat- Dr. Larry Dixon course he had a right to that prop- while it says “Barnabas and Saul,” ing people toward the development Edited by Mark R. Stevenson erty. But he sacrificed his personal “Barnabas and Saul.” But suddenly of godly character and Christian Lost rights and privileges. That is the it changes to “Paul and Barnabas,” service. The strategy is to stop com- heartbeat of encouragers. They are “Paul and Barnabas.” There was the plaining, and criticizing, and ignor- Editor’s Note: This article is an edited God so loved the world, what’s 1 John 2:15? The very same writer not always demanding their rights. transition in leadership. Barnabas ing them. Instead, encourage them! transcript of a message delivered by wrong with us? What does it mean says, “Do not love the world or any- They are willing to sacrifice their starts off as the leader, but he steps Clap and Cheer Larry Dixon at the 2007 “Iron to love the lost? How did Jesus thing in the world. If anyone loves the rights for the good of others. back and passes over the leadership Jamie, a second grader, was going Sharpens Iron” Conference held on Christ model for us a life of love for world, the love of the Father is not in to Paul. It is a very subtle thing. off to school one morning. His the campus of Emmaus Bible College. those who needed Him? him.” The same writer appears to He Takes Risks But that is what good encouragers mother was really nervous because say opposite things. The solution, The next time we see Barnabas do. They are committed to the suc- that day they were giving out parts In this article we want to focus on I. Our Basis for however, lies in the two meanings he is introducing Saul, the new cess of others, and they are content for the school play. Jamie really caring for those not yet in the fami- Loving the Lost for the word “world.” In John 3:16, Christian, to the church. Of course, to pass on leadership. That is what wanted to be in it, but what if he ly of God. Along the way, we need John 3:16 & 1 John 2:15 John is referring to the world of they are suspicious that he is an elders need to do as they reach didn’t get a part? As the school day to tackle some important questions. We read in John 3:16, “For God so people. Whereas in 1 John 2:15, he undercover agent who is coming in those later years. Elders who are came to an end Jamie’s mother Why should we love the lost? If loved the world....” But what about is referring to the pagan system of to arrest them and persecute them. encouragers are content to pass the drove to school and parked in the But Barnabas comes in and he puts leadership on to others. his reputation behind Saul. He front. The school bell rang, the supports him, and speaks for him. He Is Concerned about the doors opened, and the kids came What is he doing? He is taking a Failure of Others running out. Jamie looked over and risk; and that’s what encouragers It is not long before there is a saw mom sitting in the family car. do. The people who have made a little problem between Paul and He jumped in the front seat and significant difference in my life are Barnabas and John Mark. But exclaimed, “Mom, I’ve been chosen the people who were willing to take Barnabas stands up with John to clap and to cheer!” a risk with me. And I’m glad they Mark. He is concerned about Mark; And so have you! ✟ did. he is concerned about his stum- bling; he is concerned about his He Is Committed to the failure. Paul wanted to discard him. Success of Others But Barnabas comes alongside him. When Barnabas comes to Antioch, he discovers a need in the church He Is Committed to the that he is not able to meet. He Restoration of Others Bill McRae remembers that Saul is in Tarsus, The last picture we have of Bill is a graduate of Emmaus Bible School (1953-5); Toronto Teachers College (1956); so he goes over and gets Saul and Barnabas is that he takes John and Queen’s University (BA 1966). He holds a involves him in the ministry. Mark out on his missionary journey. Master of Theology and Doctor of Ministry from Dallas Theology Seminary. Bill has spent twenty- Barnabas was not concerned about He is committed to the restoration five years in pastoral leadership (Renfrew, his own success. He was concerned of Mark. He is not going to leave Ontario; Dallas, Texas; London, Ontario), and twenty years with Tyndale University College about the health of the church at him out in limbo. He is not going and Seminary in Toronto, where he presently Antioch. He was concerned about to leave him on the sidelines. He serves as President Emeritus. Bill and his wife, Marilyn, celebrated 50 years of marriage in the success of Saul and his develop- made a bit of a bungle on the first 2006. They have four married children and 13 ment in his service for God. People step, but let’s try it again! grandchildren. who are encouragers are committed In these six characteristics of to the success of others. Barnabas you see a character profile Jesus eats with publicans and sinners. Illustrations by Alexandre Bida, from Christ in Art; or, The Gospel Life of Jesus: With the Bida Illustrations. by Edward Eggleston. New York: Fords, Howard, & Hulbert, 1874.

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the world. We are not to love the the good you can, by all the means I thought that if I was going to talk “You know, according to the Bible, with the lost? It’s the undeclared we are not to have any unsaved pagan system that opposes God and you can, in all the ways you can, in to the unsaved, the only subject the truth is that you’re under the expectation in many of our church- friends — and we are not even hates the things of God. But we are all the places you can, in all the could be the gospel. Why do we wrath of God. And the only way es that we will have meeting after anxious about it! We think we are to be like the Lord and love the times you can, to all the people you think we can talk to people about to get out from under the wrath of meeting after meeting, and that more holy the fewer non-Christian people of this world. can, as long as ever you can.” We eternity, but we don’t talk to them God is by trusting the Lord Jesus spiritual people will be there every friends we have. Well, I’m sorry. are to be looking for opportunities about their everyday lives? We Christ.” Now, I am not saying you time the lights are on. But if that’s That does not correlate at all with Matthew 11:19 to do good in the name of the Lord don’t find out about their children, should go do that with all of your the case, when are we ever going to Matthew 11:19, which says, “The “The Son of Man came eating and Jesus Christ. Christ went around or their jobs, or their vacations, or lost friends. But don’t you wish you spend time with lost people? The Son of Man comes eating and drinking drinking and they say, ‘Here is a glut- doing good! My fear is that many of their pets. We just jump right into could? There may be a few relation- local church is the place for us to and they say, ‘Here is a glutton and a ton and a drunkard, a friend of tax us go around merely saying words. eternity. And we wonder why they ships where you can actually be get energized, taught, and discipled, drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is Now, certainly our witness has to run when they see us coming. that bold. But we need to regain a so we can go out and share with others. and sinners.’” I need to be a friend proved right by her actions.” That be verbal. We need to articulate sense of desperation about sharing of sinners, and you do as well. is Jesus speaking. In other words, I the gospel. But as St. Francis of Believer’s Blackmail the gospel. Fear Factor must love what God loved. I must Assisi said, “Preach always; if Here we redefine love and make We think, “Having unsaved friends Are We Reaching the Lost? be a friend to those to whom Jesus necessary use words.” it conditional upon a positive One Way Street will bring me down spiritually.” George Barna says this: “After was a friend. It’s that simple. An response to the gospel. It is as if the We often fail to understand the Well, get spiritually strong; stay in nearly two decades of studying evangelist once said, “No one II. Our Barriers Christian says, “Look, you got six benefits to us of friendships with the Word! Don’t let that keep you Christian churches in America, I’m accepts Christ in one of my meet- to Loving the Lost months, o.k.? I give you six the unsaved. You may have from developing relationships. convinced that the typical church, months. But beyond that — I’m unsaved friends, and you thank as we know it today, has a rapidly ings who isn’t already half convert- Following are some of the barriers going to move to somebody else.” God for them, and you realize how Family Fear Factor expiring shelf life!” What an indict- ed before he or she gets there.” I we often erect that keep us from It’s the “pearls before swine” kind much you are learning just by being Or perhaps the concern is: “Having ment! Are we reaching lost people? believe he is talking about reaching out to lost people: of thing. My fear is we call a lot of around them. It may be by way of unsaved friends will be a bad exam- Have you ever noticed how our befriending and loving unbelievers. ple for my family.” No, just the Poor Memories people swine while Jesus is saying, contrast: you may see things in prayer meetings become “organ Do you have some half-converted opposite. I have had young parents We forget that someone loved us. “Hey, you just started this friend- their lives that remind you of what recitals?” We talk about so-and-so’s friends? come to me when I have talked Think about it for a moment: ship!” they presently do not have-but you gallbladder that needs to come out, about friendship evangelism and Who loved you into the kingdom? I have a bunch of unsaved guys do as a Christian! There are bene- and so-and-so has a bunion and Acts 10:38 say, “You talk about being friends Thank God for them, and now you I play tennis with. They know I’m fits to us in being the friend of sin- needs surgery. I sometimes feel like Peter speaks of how “God anointed with unsaved. You don’t mean our go love someone! Sometimes we a believer. I don’t assault them with ners as Jesus was. a medical intern at the foot of a Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit children should do that, do you?” I and power,” and how “he went suffer from poor memories. the gospel; but in different ways I hospital bed reading a chart. Years try to communicate to them not Outreach — Beta Version say, “Of course! Your children ago when I was in graduate school, around doing good and healing all Watching the Clock This is all about having programs should be sharing the gospel with who were under the power of the only my love for them, and their I was at a prayer meeting and after This is the problem of not spending rather than getting personal. There their friends.” “But they’re going to devil, because God was with him.” need for Christ, but the fact that I they went through the organ recital time with the lost. How many is no question that some of our wind up doing things they should- I fear sometimes we make our faith will be their friend to the day they I said, “Could we also pray for my hours in a hundred-and-sixty-eight- churches could use better programs. n’t do.” My suggestion is, “Then exclusively verbal. Jesus went die! If I am alive and they are on friends Mike and Tom because they hour week do you spend with those I am not against that. But good make your house the central place around doing good. Have you done their deathbed, I want to be need Christ? I work with them at who need Christ? there and share the gospel one programs, when people don’t feel of fun. You control the activities.” UPS and they need the Lord.” good for any of your neighbors they are loved, do not amount to You cannot shelter your children recently? We are to do good to the “What about Jesus, beloved?” more time. What really hurt was that gossip much. from having contact with unsaved got back to me that they thought household of faith, but we are also Sometimes we fall into the spiritual Desperados people. I was bragging that I had unsaved to do good to all men. Could it be trap of inviting the unsaved only to 24/7 Religiosity Perhaps we forget the desperate friends. We need to consistently that because we do not have the our churches and not to our homes. Sometimes we think that we must Separation NON-Anxiety need for Christ that our unbeliev- be praying for those who need the gift of healing like Jesus we do not We engage them in spiritual activi- have the church lights on every 2 Corinthians 6:17 says, “‘Come out ing friends really have. Don’t you Lord Jesus Christ and stop being do any good at all? I hope not. ties; we talk with them only about night of the week. But when are and be separate,’ says the Lord.” We wish you could sit down with some so critical about the church. spiritual matters. For years this was of your lost friends and say to them, we ever supposed to spend time misunderstand that to mean that John Wesley said this: “Do all the way I thought about witnessing.

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III. Our Example 1. The Lord Jesus loved him enough “no one can see the kingdom of God Propositional revelation is state- not want people to perish (3:16). “Guys, don’t go out and buy all in Loving the Lost to be available to him. unless he is born again.” Poor ments about reality that we can But the passage also says that those your own power tools. Borrow them Our example, of course, is the Lord Nicodemus could come and have Nicodemus is thinking Biology 101. take to the bank! Our problem as who do not believe will be con- from your neighbor. Don’t break Jesus. How did He love the lost? a private audience with the Lord He’s confused. So he asks a ques- evangelicals is that sometimes we demned (3:17). In fact, verse 18 them — and make sure you return Let’s look at three categories. Jesus. Whatever Nicodemus’ reasons tion, “How can a man be born when tend to only make statements. We says: “Whoever does not believe them! But borrow them.” When were for coming at night, Jesus was he is old? Surely he cannot enter a declare things, and we expect peo- stands condemned already.” Jesus you borrow a tool from a neighbor A. Loving the Religious — available to him. Someone has said second time into his mother’s womb to ple to automatically buy what we does not water down the truth you are saying, “I’ve got a need. John 3 that our greatest ability is our avail- be born.” What Jesus said provoked are telling them. Jesus was brilliant about God’s judgment, and neither Can you help me?” In John 3 we have what I call, ability. Be available. The Lord was. a question from Nicodemus. in stating things that got people must we. Some time ago, my wife bought “Nick at Night”— Nicodemus I am a firm believer in proposi- thinking and asking questions. He me a hammock. I stretched it comes to Jesus at night. There are 2. Jesus loved him enough to be open loved him enough to be open to his B. Loving the Immoral — between two big pine trees in our tional revelation. It is one of the John 4 at least four basic principles that to his questions. battle fronts today as many post- questions. backyard. I was thinking of all the In John 4 a marvelous conversation Christ models for us with Jesus gets right to the heart of the moderns are saying that we cannot hours that I could spend meditating takes place as Jesus meets with the Nicodemus. issue with Nicodemus and says, affirm propositional revelation. 3. He loved him enough to tell him on the important things in life. the truth. Samaritan woman. Again, there are When I lay on the hammock I Nicodemus is still confused. By the four principles that leap out here. looked up and saw a dead limb thir- way, that happens over and over ty feet above me. I thought, “Of all again in the Gospel of John. Jesus 1. Jesus loved her enough to make the different ways to die, I don’t uses a word or phrase on the spiri- her His priority. want to die taking a nap on a ham- tual level and people think only Jesus intentionally goes through mock with a dead pine tree limb on the physical level. It happens Samaria even though the Jews typi- sticking through my chest!” So I in John 4 with water, John 6 with cally refused to go through Samaria got out my ladder, but it was only bread, and John 9 with blindness. due to their disdain for Samaritans. twenty feet high. I then had to But God’s Word lets us see inside But I believe the Lord had an come to a very emotional time in the conversation. Here, Jesus loved appointment with this woman, and my life. I had to ask my neighbor Nicodemus enough to tell the He had to meet up with her. He for a ladder! So I borrowed a ladder, truth, and when he did not under- made her his priority. and the neighbor who lent it to me, stand about being born again, Jesus along with another neighbor, came rebukes him: “You are Israel’s 2. He loved her enough to express out to watch. I think they were say- teacher, and you don’t understand His own need. ing, “Let’s watch the theologian kill these things?” Notice how Jesus initiates the con- himself!” I climbed to the top of I live in South Carolina where versation: “Could I have a drink of the ladder and did a marvelous job we have a lot of religious people water, please?” He expresses a need. of cutting the limb while they were like Nicodemus. The difficulty in She could have as easily said, “Not holding the ladder and cracking trying to share the gospel with reli- on your life, buster! I’m not giving jokes about crazy theologians. gious people is they already think you a drink of water.” But the way You know, I’m not going to buy they know it. They already think Jesus treated her, and the fact that a new ladder. If I ever have to do it they are right with God. How do He expressed a need, gave her the again, I’m going to go back to my we reach them? Sometimes it may opportunity to talk to Him. neighbor because he met a need for involve rather direct language: We men suffer from a love of me. What are the needs in your life “Have you been born again?” power tools. We want to get up in that you could solve by a) going to the middle of the night and turn on Lowe’s or Home Depot and doing it 4. He loved him enough to not water the drill just to listen to it. You buy yourself, or, b) going to a neighbor Nicodemus seeks Jesus by night. a rotary saw and you just want to Illustrations by Alexandre Bida, from Christ in Art; or, The Gospel Life of Jesus: With the Bida Illustrations. by Edward Eggleston. New York: Fords, Howard, & Hulbert, 1874. down God’s judgment. and saying, “Is there any way you’d Jesus goes on to say that God does cut things! I heard a preacher say, lend me such and such?” Now

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call your husband and come back.” Scripture. There’s a lot of humor in people in their brokenness. And Don’t Be a Hypocrite! She says, “I have no husband.” And it, too. Notice how Jesus loves the when they are open we can begin to Vance Havner tells the story about He responds, “You are right when man born blind. share with them some of the basic someone who brought a talking you say you have no husband. The principles of a biblical theology of horse into church. He said to the fact is, you’ve had five husbands, 1. He loved him enough to provide suffering. talking horse, “How many members and the man you now have is not a theology of suffering for him. in the Godhead?” And the horse your husband. What you’ve just said The disciples ask a profound theo- 2. Jesus loved him enough to do the taps out three times. People are is quite true.” What do you think logical question regarding the blind Father’s work despite the cost. amazed. Then he said, “How many His facial expression was when He man: “Rabbi, who sinned, this man, This is where the Lord Jesus says, disciples did Jesus have?” And the said that to her? I don’t think it or his parents, that he was born “It’s day. We better do the Father’s horse tapped out twelve. Then was a kind of screwed-up, blind?” The Lord responds: work while it’s day. Night is coming he asked him a third question, Pharisaical face of condemnation. “Neither this man nor his parents when we can’t work.” I believe He “How many hypocrites are in this I think it was a face of love and sinned. But this happened so that is talking about the opposition that church?” And the horse broke compassion because He knew He the work of God might be displayed would take place. You and I need into a full gallop and ran away! must deal with her sin. Jesus keeps in his life.” If this was the only verse to love people enough to do the I don’t want to be a hypocrite. I bringing her back to the main issue we had in all the Bible about the Father’s work despite the cost. want to be like the Lord Jesus. — a relationship with God. But in problem of brokenness, and suffer- I want to love the religious — not order to do that He must deal with ing, and tragedy in life, it would be 3. He loved him enough to focus affirm them in their religiosity, but her sin. enough, would it not? Why do on the most important relationship by God’s grace, break through that May I suggest that we need awful things happen? We don’t in life. religion and help them understand to get over our revulsion for the always know. But we do know this After the man is healed the reli- a relationship with the Lord Jesus. immoral? I do not mean for — and you can write it over any gious leaders put him through trial I want to love the immoral. I want immorality, but for people who are tragedy: “This happened so that the after trial about how it happened. to treat them with dignity. I want to sinners. Sometimes we are like the work of God might be displayed in This poor man who had never seen love the broken so that they can see Pharisees. We pull our righteous his life.” You and I need to provide anything in his life, now only sees the love of God in the very way robes around us and say, “Unclean.” a theology of suffering for broken sweaty-faced Pharisees who want to that I treat them. Let’s rediscover But our churches need to reach people. kill Jesus. And he loses it. That’s how the Lord Jesus loved the broken people: the divorced, the There are really only two kinds where the humor comes in. They religious, the immoral, and the

Jesus and the Woman of Samaria addicted, the homosexual, the crim- of people in the world: those who ask him about a fifth time, “How broken, and by His grace, let’s do Illustration by Gustave Dore’, public domain inal, and the outcast. We must get are broken and acknowledge it, and did this happen,” and he says to the same. ✟ over this myth that we are no those who are broken and do not. them, “Why are you asking me make sure you return it, and try not ask Him and He’d give you living longer sinners, and they are, and we We are all broken. And what a gift again? Don’t you listen? Do you to break it! But Jesus models for us water. You’d never, ever thirst ought to stay away from them. NO! God gives us in providing in His want to become his disciples, too?” the issue of expressing a need. We again.” The wheels start turning in We are sinners who have found the Word a theology of suffering. Of They get so freaked out, they say, create isolation when we act as if her brain but she’s still stuck on love and forgiveness of the Lord course, you have to be careful. The “You were steeped in sin at birth. we have no needs. Let’s not isolate physical water: “Well, give me this Jesus. How dare we look down on one book most of us think of when How dare you lecture us!” and they ourselves this way from our unsaved water because I’m really tired of anyone else! Donald Miller says, we think of suffering is the book threw him out. Jesus then seeks out Larry Dixon Larry Dixon, professor of theology and church friends and neighbors. coming here drawing water for “Nobody will listen to you unless of Job. Eighty-seven percent of the the man and leads him to saving history at Columbia Biblical Seminary and School myself.” She hasn’t made the transi- they sense that you like them.” We book of Job is the lousy advice of faith. What is more important of Missions, is a 1971 graduate of Emmaus. tion with Him. But it is coming. Larry has written five books: The Other Side of 3. He loved her enough to be creative can like sinners without condoning his friends. So be careful when you than getting one’s physical vision? the Good News (2003), DocDEVOS (2002), in His witness. Jesus is creative in His witness. their sin. And we need to do so. use the book of Job. Most of what Getting one’s spiritual sight — Heaven: Thinking Now About Forever (2002), Jesus uses language that has spiritual they said to Job was wrong. About coming into a relationship with the DocTALK (2002), and DocWALK (2005). He C. Loving the Broken — and his wife Linda served with International meaning. He asks the woman for a 4. He loved her enough to deal the only thing Job’s friends did right Lord Jesus Christ. Teams in Germany. drink, and then says, “If you knew carefully with her sin. John 9 was to keep their mouths shut for who asked you for the water, you’d Jesus surprises her by saying, “Go This is one of the great stories in the first seven days. We can be with

: Winter 2007 21 20 Journey: Winter 2007 Journey Journey | magazine Journey | magazine

Crisis can be defined as: a crucial turning point in the process of an Caring in incident or series of events.

For many parents and adults in 1. The example of having a as a family to Louisiana to plant today’s world, the alarm clock going quiet time or devotions each day Stan Farmer flower gardens around the new off marks the beginning of a “crisis” should be set by the parents. homes erected after Katrina; or to that lasts until, exhausted, they fall 2. Mom and Dad need to be the Czech Republic to package into bed. Fortunately, this is not life seen praying together for their medical kits; or to New Hampshire, for most of us! While this type of marriage and family. where you can fight black flies stressful lifestyle may describe the 3. Conversation related to while planting seed at His Mansion. reality of many in our culture, it is church matters and personalities Parents also must be willing to not the kind of crisis I am address- should be uplifting, not degrading, admit that their child may truly be ing here. Rather, I am concerned derisive, or gossip-driven. willfully engaging in wrong behav- with the parents who find them- 4. Spiritual priorities should ior. It is all too common for many selves confronted with a major fam- trump material ones. parents of young children in today’s ily crisis resulting from the news 5. All addicting chemicals culture to find their significance that they, or a family member, are should be considered dangerous and and worth solely in the achieve- in bondage due to addictive behav- portrayed as insidious enemies of ments and accomplishments of iors such as pornography, eating dis- families. their children. This being the case, orders, drug and/or alcohol abuse, 6. Fellowship with other there tends to be a clouding of the sexual abuse or addiction, etc. couples who have families and eyesight regarding the actions and This kind of crisis typically share your Christian views about speech of adolescent children. begins long before the problem childrearing should be considered Attitudes such as, “It’s just a phase,” becomes evident to the family. If we to be imperative. or “All the kids are doing this wait to formulate a plan and strate- 7. Periodic involvement of the now,” or, better yet, “He/she only gy until the so-called disaster hits us entire family in an activity that is behaves like that when with ‘those’ like a freight train, we will likely wholly altruistic and sacrificial is kids,” will only create more prob- become a part of the problem. It is essential. Many teens seek out crazy lems. Unwillingness to consider the essential to understand that the friends and risky behavior because possibility that your child is choos- actions we take — or avoid taking they desire to be a part of an ing to rebel, adversely influence — in the first few hours can either adventure that fully engages them. younger siblings, steal and/or cheat, spell disaster or some modicum of They choose crises-producing alter- etc., can cause a blindness that may success. natives because parents are seen as lead to the ruin of the offspring’s Christian families would be “looking out for number one,” life, and subject the parent to wise to live by the following princi- occupied with personal goals, and- unimaginable pain. ples at all times. Certainly if a crisis frankly — boring! It is not irresponsible, unlov- does arise, having these practices in It’s your job to create the ing, or unfair to oversee your chil- place will help, but, more impor- atmosphere in your family. You dren with an eye to the possibility tantly, structuring your family create the buzz. Instead of spending that they are involved in some around such precepts may well stave money on a new car, summer trip, behavior that seems “unthinkable” off a major crisis in the first place: or the next facelift, try traveling to you. We must continually

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first, because you should be able is showing us that sexual addiction 1. If the crisis has come about put out of the house, you may have to expect him to take the matter is the fastest growing addiction and due to poor choices and bad behav- to do just that. before the Throne of Grace in a is often a key ingredient in other ior on the part of the son or daugh- 5. Having a relationship with way that most practitioners might addictions. Should your crises ter, hold him or her fully responsi- some sort of residential care facility not be expected to. Shepherds, include this dimension, how you ble for his or her actions. There can be a lifesaver. Even if they can- after all, love and care for their address it can make all the differ- will be no change as long as the not admit the individual right away sheep. ence. Please do not allow yourself blame game and “victim” mentali- or do not address the particular age, Another important maxim to to be in denial if this is an addic- ties persist. gender, or problem being faced, follow is to avoid succumbing to tion with which your loved one is 2. Do not modify or “dummy- they will likely have a list of the old adage that insists upon struggling. Even the “best” young- down” the standards that have resources and referrals, and be able “keeping your dirty laundry hidden ster — the camper; the Awana been established in the home. to offer hope. There are many from view.” When your son, daugh- alumnus; or the sweet, giving, lov- Smoking, drinking, obsessive gam- short-term solutions that are not ter, husband, or wife has allowed ing, “don’t-you-wish-your-child- ing, absorption in music, inappro- widely known, such as rescue mis- their wills to be dominated by any was-like-this” darling — is suscepti- priately revealing attire, excessive sions and shelters that are willing addictive agent, there is nothing ble to this basic, flesh-driven temp- television marathons, and so on are to house people for a short time so antiseptic as full exposure to tation which quickly leads to a not healthy, and “being reasonable” and include modified programs. sunlight (“Sonlight”). Candid vine-entangled addiction. When by compromising will do nothing 6. Under no circumstances transparency over time allows for sexual addiction finally manifests, it for your charge’s recovery. can you allow for the perpetrator “trends” to be discussed before the is a crisis of the greatest proportion. 3. Take action as quickly as to dictate terms. They are the ones remind ourselves that it is not all wives. This must be guarded actual crisis explodes — perhaps When the pot boils over in possible. Lies, cunning, and denial responsible and must be willing to about “us,” and the portrayal of our against, because if it happens, the even precluding it. I have become a your family unit and involves one usually set in soon after the shock surrender to your terms. If they image to the people surrounding us. focus has then changed, and the proponent of intimate small groups or more of your sons and/or daugh- of being caught and exposed. resist, there must be consequences Poor choices made by adolescents chance to turn a crisis into an of twelve to fifteen. Bill Thrall and ters, be prepared by settling certain 4. If there are younger siblings severe enough to make them recon- must be fully attributed to them and opportunity for healing and growth Bruce McNichol’s Leadership issues ahead of time, or you’ll fall and the crisis involves chronic drug sider. Once the consequences — not diluted in an effort to spread just got sabotaged by childish adults! Catalyst’s exercise, called prey to enabling and denial. The abuse and/or sexual addiction (par- having been roughed out during the blame around or minimize the In the midst of a crisis, commit to TrueFaced, has been an excellent following guidelines may prove ticularly pornography), and your days before the need actually severity of their misbehavior. making the child the only immedi- tool for us. It takes time, and helpful: charge is old enough to be legally surfaces — are dictated, you must Failing to be open to the possibility ate concern. Do not become divid- patience, and the willingness to be be willing to follow through that one’s child might be the cul- ed, letting outdated and personal the first one exposed. Without the with them. prit and initiator will often result issues assume the stage. courage to take that risk, true com- Beware, as this is the moment in an event finally evolving into a Although this may seem like munity will never develop. when the disobedient, willful, or major crisis, or bondage to addic- the height of pessimism, it is wise I also recommend that every wayward one will demonstrate an tive sin. Be discerningly suspicious! to prepare for hard events and couple at least be familiar with a amazing, and hitherto unseen, gift When a crisis is beginning to crises ahead of time. Arrange with counseling clinic in the area. for acting. He or she will take your develop and disaster looms, guard a trusted elder or pastor — inciden- When emotional/behavioral crises heart, twist it, stretch it, and wring against the temptation to lump tally, one of the best cases to be visit your reality, there is a better- it out. Only the well-prepared will your issues with your child’s and made for sticking with a local com- than-even chance that the causes be able to sustain the emotional together attack your spouse. I can- munity of believers over a long lie deeper than “biblical correc- blackmail! not tell you how many times the period of time — to be willing to tions” alone can assuage. Seeking 7. Have a small army of trusted confrontation with the erring come to your aid if and when the professional help for inner healing friends praying throughout this young person has quickly turned need arises. If you have an ongoing is not a sign of a lack of faith, or process. Angels are our encouragers into a war between parents. relationship with someone who has doubt in God’s ability — He uses and protectors. Believe God for the Crisis can construct a platform professional training and experi- many kinds of tools in our lives, supernatural help you’ll need! for venting long-festering anger and ence, keep him or her on that list. I and counseling can be one of them. 8. Often, and becoming bitterness between husbands and placed the shepherd on the list For the record, our experience increasingly evident to us of late,

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1 of Preaching by David J. MacLeod2

Stan Farmer was born on Peaks Island, Maine in 1941. The day after he graduated from high school he joined the US Navy’s Submarine Service, serving for eight years. During this period he married Joan, his wife of 40 years. In 1971 Stan and several other men founded His Mansion Ministries. Stan and Joan live in Deering, New Hampshire where he continues to serve as President and ambassador-at-large for His Mansion Ministries.

The Enemy of our The theological commitment [in some of the assembly magazines] is the dimension of spiritual boundaries and conditions for the warfare. The Enemy of our souls person’s recovery, should he or she souls lies in wait, is not very comforting to me. We have too many shallow bodies of lies in wait, seeking whom he may remain within your household. seeking whom he believers now, and their influence for our Lord is minimal, it seems to devour. Drug abuse, sexual However, be especially ready and me. I realize, of course, that evangelism precedes deepening of life, immorality and addiction, internet willing to celebrate almost any vic- may devour. but the goal of ministry must always be theological maturity. pornography, and certain types of tory, small or large, during the early I would define theology as many of the early Reformed writers did music are powerful tools of the stages of recovery. as a very practical science. William Ames’ [1576-1633] definition of devil. Along with the actual dam- 10. Encourage remorse and it as “the doctrine of living to God” is to the point, as is William age inflicted upon the individual contriteness in the days following and others, this can create severe the confrontation. This may not Perkins’ [1558-1602] “the science of living blessedly forever.” Paul’s footholds upon which the enemy be evident during the initial definition is, “the knowledge of the truth which is according to grasps in a desperate attempt to campaign, but should emerge godliness” (Tit. 1:1, NASB). That’s why I think theological maturity hold on to hard-won territory. within a day or two. is the goal of ministry and life. Certainly this must be kept in bal- Finally, it is my experience and — S. Lewis Johnson, Jr.3 ance, but having someone who is observation with many believing familiar with and experienced in families, that if we are willing to The reason for the great weight that the Reformers laid on spiritual warfare assist you in the continue to pray for our struggling intervention stage of addressing the family member, as well as love preaching was not educational or social but theological. crisis, can be a huge help in the them and say so, the vast majority — T. H. L. Parker4 spiritual dimension of the battle. follow the prodigal’s path from the 9. Set reasonable-but-certain slop trough to the love feast. ✟ The ministry that I have attempted to give has been given with an avowedly theological purpose of expounding the biblical teaching concerning the redemption of God in Christ and the believer’s life of obedience in response. — S. Lewis Johnson, Jr.5

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In a comic strip, a frock-coated theological arguments that under- begins, Mohler continues, with to “the God who speaks, the Son GOD HAS ACTED namely the birth, death, resurrec- parson is asked a question, “Why gird the practice of preaching. Any “the humble acknowledgment that who saves, and the Spirit who God has taken the initiative to tion, and exaltation of His Son, do preachers preach?” The minister one of these arguments should be preaching is not a human inven- illuminates.”15 reveal Himself in deeds. “To begin Jesus Christ.18 scratches his head. “Hmmmmmm,” enough to convince us of the tion but a gracious creation of God with, he has shown his power and GOD IS LIGHT GOD HAS SPOKEN he says. Then he opens his mouth necessity of preaching; “the five and a central part of His revealed deity in the created universe, so “And this is the message we have God not only revealed His nature to answer but “Duhhhh” comes together leave us without excuse.”8 will for the church.” In fact preach- that both heaven and earth display heard from Him and announce to in His mighty acts, but He also out. Finally in the last panel of the Before we examine our five theo- ing is distinctively Christian in its his glory” (cf. Ps. 19:1; Rom. 1:19, you, that God is light, and in Him communicated with His people by comic strip, he wanders off with a logical foundation stones, I want to origin and practice. Other religions 20). But He has revealed more of there is no darkness at all” (1 Jn. speech. Unlike the dead idols of giant question mark over his head. add a sixth more practical or prag- may include teaching, or public Himself in redemption than in cre- 1:5, NASB). Although this could the heathen nations who were The giant question mark —”Why matic argument, and it is this: we speech and calls to prayer, but the ation. When man rebelled against mean that God is perfect in holi- dumb (Ps. 115:5), the living God do preachers preach?”— hangs over are commanded to preach. “Preach preaching act is sui generis, a one- his Creator in the Garden of Eden, ness, in Johannine literature light spoke to His prophets. Repeatedly all who minister the Word.6 “True the word!” (ke–ryxon ton logon) says of-a-kind function unique to the instead of destroying him, God more frequently stands for truth (cf. they claim that “the Word of the Christian preaching (by which I Paul (2 Tim. 4:2). “That simple church established by Jesus Christ.11 devised a rescue mission, the out- Jn. 8:12). John’s statement here Lord” came to them (Jer. 1:2; Ezek. mean ‘biblical’ or ‘expository’ imperative frames the act of As the legendary John A. Broadus working of which is the central means that God is open and not 1:3; Hos. 1:1; Joel 1:1). In the Old preaching...) is extremely rare in preaching as an act of obedience.”9 stated, “Preaching is characteristic theme of the Bible.17 secretive, and that He delights to Testament alone, the phrases “the today’s Church,” says John Stott, Preaching did not emerge, says of Christianity. No other religion The Old Testament, Stott make Himself known. Just as it is Lord said,” “the Lord spoke,” and the now retired pastor and world- Albert Mohler, well-known evan- has ever made the regular and fre- notes, consists of three cycles of the nature of light to shine, so it “the word of the Lord came” renowned Bible teacher. The major gelical leader, and president of quent assembling of groups of peo- divine deliverance: (1) the call of is the nature of God to reveal appear at least 3,808 times.19 reason, he argues, must be “a lack Southern Baptist Theological ple, to hear religious instruction Abraham from Ur, (2) the deliver- Himself. “God does not play a When God acted He took the of conviction about its importance.”7 Seminary in Louisville, as a result and exhortation, an integral part of ance of the Israelite slaves from game of ‘hide and seek’ with us,” trouble to explain what He was In the average course on of the church’s experiments with divine worship.”12 As Mohler Egypt, and (3) the return of the says Stott, “or lurk out of sight in doing: (1) He spoke to Abraham homiletics, the professor deals with communication techniques. We do argued, “The church cannot but exiles from Babylon. Each deliver- the shadows. Darkness is the habi- about His purpose and gave him a the preparation and delivery of ser- not preach because preaching is preach lest it deny its own identity ance was an act of liberation tat of Satan; God is light.” Seated covenant of promise. (2) He com- mons; in short, he focuses on meth- “thought to be a good idea or an and abdicate its ordained purpose.”13 marked by the making or renewal before the preacher every week are missioned Moses to lead His people odology. But there is something effective technique.” The sermon of the covenant by which Yahweh people bewildered by the mysteries out of Egypt, to make a covenant more important than methodology, isn’t part of the church service or Foundation Stone #1: A made them His people and pledged of human existence and enveloped with them, and to instruct them in and that is theology. We cannot meeting because it has been found Conviction About God to be their God. The New in the dark night of doubt and dis- His law and worship. (3) He raised consider methodology without a to be more useful than other Behind the act of preaching lies the Testament focuses on another belief. We need to preach with the up prophets to explain to the peo- solid theological foundation. The approaches to worship. No, we doctrine of God and a conviction redemption and covenant, which is confidence that God wants to shine ple why their God had judged them goal of this article is to convince preach because we are commanded about His being, His action, and described as “better” and “eternal” His light into their spiritual dark- with exile, what the conditions of the reader of the theological rea- to preach. “Preaching is a commis- His purpose.14 And, as we shall see, (Heb. 7:19, 22; 8:6; 9:12, 14, 15, ness (cf. 2 Cor. 4:4-6).16 their restoration would be, and how sons that preaching is necessary. sion — a charge.”10 our theology of preaching is subtly 23; 13:20). This new covenant was He wanted them to live. (4) Finally, Stott says there are at least five So our theology of preaching Trinitarian in form, bearing witness secured by God’s mightiest acts,

1 The material in this article is for the most part adapted from John R. Messages, ed., Richard Allen Bodey (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1990), audience to the same understanding and application of Scripture 12 John A. Broadus, On the Preparation and Delivery of Sermons, rev. W. Stott, Between Two Worlds: The Art of Preaching in the Twentieth 152. Johnson writes, “I conceive the task of the minister of the Word that I have, a goal that explicitly involves the conversion and pro- Vernon L. Stanfield (San Francisco: Harper and Row, 1979), iv. Century (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1982), 92-134. The title of to be the exposition of the Scriptures, or the Word of God. Strictly gressive sanctification of those who hear. Thus, an exposition with 13 Mohler, “A Theology of Preaching,” 14. Stott’s work may suggest to some that his book is outdated. It is not, speaking, the terms exegesis and exposition mean the same thing. For an evangelistic and theological emphasis is implied in the goal.” 14 Stott, Between Two Worlds, 93. and it is highly recommended for all who preach God’s Word. example, Webster defines exegesis as ‘exposition, explanation; esp: 6 David Buttrick, Homiletics: Moves and Structures (Philadelphia: 15 Mohler, “A Theology of Preaching,” 14. 2 This article is an edited transcript of a lecture delivered by Dave an explanation or critical interpretation of a text.’ In common reli- Fortress, 1987), 449. 16 Stott, Between Two Worlds, 94. MacLeod in a seminar session at the 2007 “Iron Sharpens Iron” con- gious usage, however, it is generally accepted that exposition denotes 7 Stott, Between Two Worlds, 92. 17 Ibid. ference held on the campus of Emmaus Bible College. a more extended development and illustration of a passage, or text, 8 Ibid., 93. 18 Ibid. 3 Letter from Johnson to MacLeod, Sept. 1, 1988. with the use of other passages in comparison and contrast. It is in 9 R. Albert Mohler, “A Theology of Preaching,” in Handbook of 19 Mohler, “A Theology of Preaching,” 15, quoting D. Martyn Lloyd- 4 T. H. L. Parker, John Calvin: A Biography (Philadelphia: Westminster, this sense that I think of the term exposition. Contemporary Preaching, ed. Michael Duduit (Nashville: Broadman, Jones, Authority (London: IVP, 1958), 50. 1975), 89. “My task, then, as I see it, is to explain the Scriptures, believing also 1992), 13. 5 S. Lewis Johnson, Jr., “Expounding Individual Books,” in Inside the that illustration and application of the sense given is a proper exten- 10 Ibid. Sermon: Thirteen Preachers Discuss Their Methods of Preparing sion of the explanation. That means that my goal is to bring my 11 Ibid.

28 : Winter 2007 Journey Journey: Winter 2007 29 He sent His Son to earth as a man Foundation Stone #2: A Inspiration is not incompatible to die for His people, to rise from Conviction About Scripture with the historical researches of the dead, and to pour out His Holy Our doctrine of the living God who the human authors (cf. Lk. 1:1-4) Spirit. His apostles saw His works, lives, acts and reveals Himself, or with the free use of their minds. heard His words, and bore witness leads naturally to the doctrine of The Bible is “God’s Word written” to what they had seen and heard. Scripture. This may be broken through men’s words and through 24 It is a cliché of contemporary down into three distinct beliefs:22 human hands. scholarship that God’s self-revela- What is the relevance of the tion has been in deeds, not words; SCRIPTURE IS GOD’S doctrine of inspiration to our and personal not propositional (i.e., WORD WRITTEN preaching? All Christians believe real, objective, factual, and rational (The Doctrine of Inspiration) that God did something unique in statements of information). This is This excellent definition of Jesus Christ. Yet the significance of a false distinction not found in Scripture (“Scripture is God’s Word this definitive deed and Word of Scripture. “Scripture affirms that written”) is from the Church of God through Jesus would have God has spoken both through his- England’s statement of faith known been “irrecoverably lost in the torical deeds and through explana- as the “Thirty-nine Articles” mists of antiquity” if God had not tory words, and that the two belong (Article 20, “The Authority of made provision for a reliable record indissolubly together.”20 the Church”).23 Not only has God to be written and preserved.25 Underlying preaching, then, is acted, revealing Himself in histori- Because of the Scriptures the deeds this fundamental conviction about cal deeds of salvation, but also He and words of Jesus are accessible to the living, redeeming, and self- has spoken to the prophets and us. We can know Him, but only Our responsibility as preachers The preacher’s task is to lift up formulaic, i.e., the perfect tense revealing God. One should never apostles, interpreting those deeds. through the Bible, as the Holy is not to give our own subjective his voice and make this known (“it is written,” gegraptai) suggests enter a pulpit unless he believes in In yet a third stage He moved men Spirit witnesses to Him in its pages. and speculative comments about to others.28 that what God has spoken has been this God. When we are convinced, to commit His revelation to writing Yes, there are references to Christ. As Stott notes, most mod- written down and remains as a per- however, that we bear a message (2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Pet. 1:21). God is Jesus in secular writers such as ern preaching is “too subjective” GOD STILL SPEAKS manent written record. However, from this God, we must speak and the Author of Scripture, and Josephus, Tacitus, and Suetonius. (“What was Jesus thinking as He THROUGH WHAT HE in verse 21 he asks, “Do you not must not be silent. Amos expressed Scripture is the Word of God (Jn. And the tradition of the Christian rose from the dead?” with detailed HAS SPOKEN listen to the law?” Then in verse 30 it this way, “A lion has roared! 10:35; cf. Mk. 7:13; Rom. 9:6; 2 church bears eloquent testimony to speculation by the preacher). (The Doctrine of Illumination) he asks, “What does the Scripture Who will not fear? The Lord Cor. 4:2; Heb. 4:12; Rev. 1:2). the dynamic reality of its Founder. Rather, our duty is to faithfully Our doctrine of inspiration should say?” These are remarkable ques- GOD has spoken! Who can but That Scripture is “God’s Word And present day believers can relay to twenty-first century hearers not be misunderstood to mean that tions. Paul uses the present tense in prophesy?” (Amos 3:8). Quoting written” needs to be qualified by speak of their experience of Christ God’s own witness to Christ. What the Bible is merely a collection of verses 21 and 30 (akouete ... legei). Psalm 116:10, the apostle Paul said, affirming the dual authorship of in forgiveness and consolation. But does He say in the Bible about His ancient documents in which the How can an ancient book be said “I believed, therefore I spoke” (2 Scripture. God put His Word into to know the full facts of His birth, words of God are preserved. The Son’s deeds and words?27 to “speak” in such a way that pres- Cor. 4:13). We preach, therefore, human minds in such a way that death, resurrection, and ascension, If the Bible contains the very Bible is not “a kind of museum in ent day people can “hear” it speak- because God has spoken.21 what they wrote was expressed in as well as God’s own authoritative words of God (1 Cor. 2:13) we which God’s Word is exhibited ing? The answer is that God Him- their own words and in keeping explanation of them, we can only should be the most conscientious of behind glass like a relic or fossil.” self speaks through the Scriptures, with their own personalities. find them in the Bible.26 On the contrary, it is “a living word preachers. We sometimes use the and we must listen to Him.30 expression, “when all is said and to living people from the living This concept of God’s contem- 20 Stott, 95. (The Anatomy of Exposition: Logos, Ethos, and Pathos,” God, a contemporary message for 21 Ibid., 96. The Southern Baptist Journal of Theology 3 [Summer, 1999], 46). done” to refer to the conclusion of porary voice is also illustrated in the contemporary world.”29 22 Ibid. 26 Stott, Between Two Worlds, 98. a matter. Well, Christians believe Hebrews 3:7-8 where the author 23 Cf. W. H. Griffith Thomas, The Principles of Theology: An 27 Ibid. that all has been said and done by This is nicely illustrated by quotes Psalm 95:7-8, “Today if you Introduction to the Thirty-Nine Articles, 5th ed. (London: Church 28 Ibid., 100. comparing three verses in Paul’s 29 God through Jesus Christ. hear His voice, do not harden Book Room Press, 1956), 281-90. Ibid. writings. Galatians 4:22 begins, 24 Stott, Between Two Worlds, 97. 30 Ibid., 101. Furthermore, He has done it once your hearts...” He introduces his 25 Kent Hughes, pastor of College Church, Wheaton, Illinois, 31 Ibid., 101. for all, and He has done it forever. “For it is written that Abraham quotation with the words, “Just as wrote, “I cannot think of any non-inerrantist who has done (or 32 Ibid., 102. had two sons.” The verb here is currently does) regular biblical exposition ... Biblical exposition 33 Cf. Robert L. Saucy, Is the Bible Reliable? (Wheaton: Victor, comes only from those with a high inerrantist view of Scripture” 1978), 105-12.

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the Holy Spirit says” (katho–s legei Spirit says to the churches.” This the Word the Spirit is alien.”34 We purposes (Isa. 55:10-11), and over- hymn, “A Mighty Fortress is Our The gospel of Christ is God’s to pneuma to hagion). The author repeated refrain shows that “what may summarize what we have been rides human motives (Phil. 1:18). God,” the great reformer alludes to power for salvation to every believ- implies that the Holy Spirit is was addressed to each church in saying by quoting J. I. Packer: God fully expresses the dynamic the devil’s might and then adds, er, for it pleases God through a pro- “today” making the same appeal to particular applied to all ‘the “Having studied the doctrine for a power in His word when He identi- “One little word will fell him,” or claimed message to save those who His people to listen to Him as He churches’ in general.” What John generation, the most satisfactory fies His Son as the divine Logos, as the line has more recently been believe (Rom. 1:16; 1 Cor. 1:21). made centuries before when the had written came from the Spirit, model is to describe it thus: ‘The i.e., “the Word.” “By identifying translated, “A word shall quickly As the angel told the Gentiles, the psalm was written. It is possible to and what John had written weeks Bible is God preaching.’”35 His Son as His Word, God reveals slay him.” The Word of God, says apostle Peter would speak “words or months before, the Holy Spirit that His message and His person the author of Hebrews, is “living to you by which you will be detect here four stages in which GOD’S WORD IS God spoke and still speaks: (1) The was still saying with a living voice are inseparable.” Then Jesus speaks and active and sharper than any saved” (Acts 11:14). One preacher to every church member who was POWERFUL of the Scriptures as “the word of two-edged sword” (Heb. 4:12). who knew the Word’s power was time of testing in the wilderness (The Doctrine of Animation) when Israel refused to listen, (2) willing to listen to His message.32 God” (ho logos tou theou, cf. Mk. John Wesley. In his journal for Oct. What we are discussing here is The third understanding and con- 7:13). The incarnation of God, the 18, 1749 he wrote of bitter opposi- the exhortation in Psalm 95 to the viction about Scripture the preach- people of the psalmist’s day not to the doctrine of illumination, which Logos, and the message about God, tion in Bolton, Lancashire. A mob is that work of the Holy Spirit by er needs is that it is powerful. As the logos, form a conceptual identi- “The Bible is surrounded the house, threw stones repeat Israel’s earlier folly, (3) the Bryan Chapell, widely known application of the same truth to which He causes the Scriptures to ty. This does not mean that the let- God preaching.” through the window, and then speak to us today and to be under- speaker and seminary president, ters on the pages of the Bible are broke in through the door. Wesley the Hebrew Christians of the first notes, “preaching accomplishes its century to whom the epistle was stood (1 Cor. 2:10-16; 1 Jn. 2:20).33 divine, “but that the truths wrote, “Believing the time was now This doctrine protects us from two spiritual purposes not because of Scripture holds are God’s vehicle of come, I walked down into the addressed, and (4) the appeal to the skills of the preacher, but us as we read the Letter to the errors: (1) The belief that though His own spiritual activity.” In some Charles Colson illustrates the thickest of them. They had now God’s voice was heard in ancient because of the power of the passages the word about Christ and power of the Word this way. A filled all the rooms below. I called Hebrews today. God’s Word is con- Scripture proclaimed.” It certainly temporary, says Stott. “It moves times it is silent today. This is Christ himself unify. Note the puns 16-year-old girl named Cathleen for a chair. The winds were hushed, Christian antiquarianism. (2) The takes the “monkey of spiritual “word of truth” in James 1:18 and Crowell Webb accused a man and all was calm and still. My heart with the times and continues to manipulation” off the backs of 31 claim that God does speak today, “word of God” in 1 Peter 1:23; in named Gary Dotson of raping her. was filled with love, my eyes with address each fresh generation.” preachers when they become con- One further example may be but that His Word has little or both texts the term “word” unifies He was arrested, tried, convicted, tears, and my mouth with argu- nothing to do with the Scriptures. vinced that it is the Word itself both “the message about Jesus and and sentenced to 20 to 25 years in ments; they were melted down; given to show that this principle that fulfills God’s agenda of salva- applies to the New Testament as This is Christian mysticism. We Christ himself.”37 prison. Six years later she recanted they devoured every word. What a tion and sanctification.36 must remember that it is through Is the word powerful? James her story, and her story was widely turn was this!”40 well as to the Old. In Revelation 2 In the pages of the Bible we and 3 each of the seven letters to what He spoke that He still speaks. Stalker wrote, “It seems the frailest reported in the media. Why had The same thing has happened As Stott says, we must keep the learn of the power of God’s word. of all weapons; for what is a word? she recanted? Since Dotson’s con- throughout history. In our own the Asian churches ends with the His Word creates (Ps. 33:9), con- identical entreaty from the ascend- Word of God and the Spirit of God It is only a puff of air, a vibration viction Cathleen had been con- time Billy Graham has said, “I have together. “For apart from the Spirit trols (Ps. 147:15-18), persuades trembling in the atmosphere for a verted. She explained, “Since I had the privilege of preaching the ed Lord Jesus Christ, “He, who (Jer. 23:28-29), performs His has an ear, let him hear what the the Word is dead, while apart from moment and then disappearing... made my decision to become a gospel on every continent and in (Yet) though it be only a weapon of Christian, the Lord kept convicting most countries of the world, and air, the word is stronger than the me of my need to make restitution, when I present the message of the sword of the warrior.”38 In Luther’s and he would not let me alone.”39 simple gospel of Jesus Christ with

34 Stott, Between Two Worlds, 102. 106. Cf. L. Tyerman, The Life and Times of the Rev. John Wesley, 35 Quoted by Stott, Between Two Worlds, 103. M.A. (London: Hodder and Stoughton, 1890), 2:57. 36 Bryan Chapell, Christ-Centered Preaching, 2d ed. (Grand Rapids: 41 Message delivered at the Pan African Christian Leadership Baker, 2005), 26. Assembly at Nairobi, December, 1976, quoted by Stott, Between 37 Ibid., 27-28. Two Worlds, 106-7. 38 James Stalker, The Preacher and His Models, Lyman Beecher 42 P. T. Forsyth, Positive Preaching and the Modern Mind, Lyman Lectures on Preaching, Yale University, 1891 (London: Hodder Beecher Lectures on Preaching, Yale University, 1907 (London: and Stoughton, 1891), 93. Quoted by Stott, Between Two Hodder and Stoughton, 1907), 6, 22, 83, quoted by Stott, Worlds, 104. Between Two Worlds, 107. 39 Charles Colson, “Stabbing the Conscience of a Sleeping 43 Gustaf Wingren, The Living Word (1949; ET, London: SCM, Church,” Moody Magazine (Sept., 1985), 14. 1960), 45. For these references in Wingren I am indebted to 40 The Journal of the Rev. John Wesley, M.A., 4 vols. (New York: E. Stott, Between Two Worlds, 108. P. Dutton, 1906), 2:128-29, cited by Stott, Between Two Worlds,

32 Journey: Fall 2007 Journey: Winter 2007 33 Journey | magazine Journey | magazine authority, he takes the message and reaches everyone — witness the “lies an empty space of waiting. It is across a black cardboard box. Word (e.g., 1 Th. 2:13; 1 Pet. “That always heralds the dawn of a drives it supernaturally into human thousands at the Graham meetings in this gap, this empty space, that “What’s in that box?” he asked sus- 1:25), and the early meetings were Reformation or of a Revival? It is hearts.”41 who remain seated when he preaching sends forth its voice.”43 piciously, and the preacher offered centered in their teaching (Acts renewed preaching.”54 Forsyth extends his invitation to receive He adds, “The time between Easter the startling reply, “Dynamite.” 2:42). It is the Word incarnate who wrote, “With its preaching Christ. The Parable of the Sower and the Parousia is the time for The official cautiously opened the creates and builds His church Christianity stands or falls.”55 “It seems the frailest (Lk. 8:4-15) makes it very clear preaching.”44 Preaching, he says, box and found that it contained through the Word preached by His Commenting on the decline of that not all who hear will come or provides the living Christ with the preacher’s Bible!49 Yes, the apostles (cf. Mt. 16:18; Col. 1:18). Christianity in some areas and its of all weapons; for respond. So, we should not be dis- both feet and a mouth. “It is the Bible is powerful, not because it is immaturity and stunted growth in what is a word? It is couraged. (3) We have the testimo- Word that provides the feet on like a magic spell but because the GOD MAINTAINS THE others, Stott remarked, “The major ny of God’s Word that Scripture which Christ walks when he makes God who spoke it speaks it still. CHURCH BY HIS WORD reason...is what Amos called a only a puff of air, a has the quality of animation. It is his approach to us and reaches Not only is the church the creation ‘famine of hearing the words of vibration trembling powerful, and can change lives us...Preaching has but one aim, that Foundation Stone #3: A of God by His Word, but it is main- the Lord.’ (Amos 8:11). The low (Heb. 4:12). Christ may come to those who Conviction About the Church tained by His Word. “He maintains level of Christian living is due, in the atmosphere for and sustains it, directs and sancti- And preaching is that act of have assembled to listen.”45 He goes more than anything else, to the low a moment and then proclaiming the message of this liv- on, “Preaching is not just talk GOD CREATED THE fies it, reforms and renews it level of Christian preaching....If the 51 disappearing... ing book. As P. T. Forsyth said, the about a Christ of the past, but is a CHURCH BY HIS WORD through the same Word.” Again Church is to flourish again, there is gospel is not just a statement or a mouth through which the Christ of We have many convictions the same principle was true in Old no greater need than a recovery of Testament times. God consistently (Yet) though it be doctrine or a promise. It is more. “It the present offers us life today.”46 about the church, but I have two faithful, powerful, biblical preach- only a weapon of air, is an act and a power: it is God’s act Wingren views human beings as in mind here. First, the church is “hinged the welfare of his people ing. God still says to His people, ‘O of redemption...A true sermon is a defeated, conquered, in bondage to the creation of God by His Word.50 on their listening to his voice, that today you would listen to my the word is stronger real deed...the preacher’s word, sin, guilt and death, and he sees This dependence of the church on believing his promises and obeying Word’ (cf. Ps. 95:7) and to preach- his commands” (cf. Ex. 2:24; 19:3- than the sword of the when he preaches the gospel and preaching as the means of their lib- the Word of God for its creation is ers ‘O that you would proclaim it.’”56 not only delivers a sermon, is an eration. “It belongs to the nature of not accepted by all. The older 6; Pss. 81:13; 106:13, 25; Prov. 8:1- warrior.” 52 effective deed, charged with bless- the office of preaching that it has Roman Catholic theologians would 36; Jer. 7:23-26). In New Foundation Stone #4: Testament times the Lord Jesus ing or with judgment.”42 its place in the battle between God insist, “The Church wrote the A Conviction About appointed His apostles and invested One of the most eloquent dec- and the Devil.”47 “The word of the Bible.” It is true that believers Pastoral Ministry Some may object that it is larations of the power of preaching preacher is an attack on the prison within the community of the peo- them with His authority to provide unfair to quote a Wesley or a instruction to the churches (1 Cor. came from Gustaf Wingren, the in which man is held.”48 ple of God wrote the Bible (both JESUS CHRIST Graham; after all, they and others Swedish Lutheran Professor of Stott tells the story of a preach- Testaments). And it is true that 2:10; Gal. 1:11-12). Today’s preach- (THROUGH THE HOLY like them are exceptional people. Theology at the University of er who was passing through the what was written was often deter- ers are not prophets or apostles. SPIRIT) GIVES OVER- Three answers can be given to this Lund. The theme of the Bible, he security check at an airport. It was mined by the needs of the local “The Word of the Lord does not SEERS TO HIS CHURCH objection: (1) Yes, of course, in argues, is conflict or duel between in the days before electronic scan- churches. Yet it is misleading to say, come to us as it came to them; In most parts of the church profes- every generation God raises up spe- 53 God and Satan in which the gospel ning and terrorist bomb threats “the Church wrote the Bible.” It is rather we have to come to it.” Yet sional clergymen have carried on cial people. (2) But not even a sets men free. Between Christ’s when all joking with officials is for- more accurate to say that God’s the preacher does proclaim the much of the church’s work. For at Wesley or a Graham (or, I say most victory at the cross and the con- bidden. A guard was rummaging Word created the church. Word of God and with it he cares least two reasons many are now reverently, our Lord Jesus Christ) summation at His Second Coming about in his briefcase, and came This truth holds for the Old for the church (1 Tim. 3:2; 4:13). questioning the nature and func- Testament people of God as well. Is this important? Church his- tions of the professional ministry:57 The nation of Israel traces its tory reveals that it is. Dr. Martyn First, the governments of Western beginnings to the call of Abraham Lloyd-Jones asked, “Is it not clear countries have taken over much of 44 Ibid., 146. 54 D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Preaching and Preachers (Grand Rapids: as you take a bird’s-eye view of 45 Ibid., 207-8. Zondervan, 1972), 24. Cited by Stott, Between Two Worlds, in Ur (Gen. 12:1-3). The New the philanthropic work pioneered 46 Ibid., 108. 114. Covenant people of God began on Church history, that the decadent by the church (e.g., medicine, edu- 47 Ibid., 95. 55 Forsyth, Positive Preaching and the Modern Mind, 3. the Day of Pentecost in the context periods and eras in the history of cation, and social welfare). Some 48 Ibid., 124. 56 Stott, Between Two Worlds, 115-16. the Church have always been those 49 Stott, Between Two Worlds, 109. 57 Ibid., 116-17. of the preaching of the apostle who would have gone into the 50 Ibid., 109. 58 Ibid., 117-18. Peter (Acts 2). The apostles periods when preaching had ministry are now serving their fel- 51 Ibid. 59 Thomas, The Principles of Theology, 316. claimed to be the bearers of God’s declined? What is it,” he continues, low man in secular employment. 52 Ibid., 113. 60 This has long been recognized by some in the Brethren assem- 53 Ibid. blies. Cf. R. F. Bayles, A Plea for Pastoral Ministry (New York: Loizeaux, n.d.), 1-12. 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Second, as a result of the Brethren for a couple of reasons. First, it is “priests” (Rev. 1:6), or else it is used teaching on the church. The lec- “Congratulations.” It was as if I had According to the grammatical and, more recently, the Charis- not specific enough and one always collectively, i.e., “priesthood” (1 tures were subsequently published been honored for years of faithful structure of the phrase “pastors matic movement, the doctrine of has to add a qualifying adjective to Pet. 2:5). “The truth, therefore, is in The Emmaus Journal and later in attendance and for living so long! and teachers” (Eph. 4:11), pastors the Body of Christ has been recov- indicate what kind of ministry is in that Christianity is, not has, a a book.61 The emphasis of the The eldership of a church is not an or shepherds are included in the ered, with its corollary that every mind. Furthermore, the apostle priesthood.”59 lectures was primarily theological, honorary board of men who meet category of teachers, but not all member of the church has a spiritu- Paul suggests in Ephesians 4:12 that although there was some practical once in a while to approve the teachers are included in the catego- al gift and therefore a ministry. all believers have a ministry (i.e., application. I spoke with a man at decisions of the pastor. No, the ry of shepherds. The shepherd gift As a result, many have been service). The term “priest” is also “With it’s preaching the conference and asked him how elders are the pastors of the church, uniquely combines teaching and asking whether or not a profession- ambiguous for two reasons: (1) The he was enjoying the weekend. He and they are called to shepherd the governance.62 But there are teach- al ministry is necessary. While this etymology of the word is that the Christianity stands replied that he enjoyed the lectures flock, i.e., they are to feed them, ers who are not elders, i.e., who do question needs to be answered, we English word “priest” is a contrac- or falls.” and fellowship very much, but he guide them, guard them, and heal not govern. We might translate the must emphatically assert the New tion of “presbyter,” meaning “elder.” felt something was lacking. He said them. construction in Ephesians 4:11, Testament teaching that Jesus (2) The English word is also used that he had come hoping that the I know of at least one Brethren “the pastors and other teachers.”63 Christ gives leaders to the church to translate the Greek word hiereus, It is helpful to remember that lectures would be more of a “how assembly that calls its elders, When Jesus told Peter to tend and intends them to be a perma- a sacrificing priest, which is never elders are also called pastors or to” variety. He explained that he “Pastor-Elders.” This was done to or feed the flock He was using a nent feature of the church’s struc- used of Christian church leaders in sheperds in the New Testament.60 had recently been appointed an remind the congregation (and the metaphorical expression for teach- ture. “It is a trustworthy state- the New Testament. The Lord Jesus called Himself elder in his local assembly, but had elders) that the work of elders was ing the church. The pastors are ment: if any man aspires to the To call the elders of the church “the good shepherd” (Jn. 10:14) no idea what it was that elders were a pastoral work. Believers should be essentially teachers of the church. office of overseer, it is a fine work “priests” gives “the false impression and told Peter, “Shepherd my supposed to do! This indicated to taught that the elders of the local A good shepherd’s care for the he desires to do” (1 Tim. 3:1). that their ministry is primarily sheep” (Jn. 21:16). Paul tells the me that we need serious hands-on church are its “pastors.” While sheep is fourfold: feeding, guiding directed towards God, whereas the Ephesian elders that the Holy training and mentoring of new visiting a Brethren assembly in (because sheep go astray), guarding OVERSEERS/ELDERS New Testament portrays it as pri- Spirit has made them overseers “to elders to help them learn the Chicago many years ago, I sat in on (against predatory wolves), and GIVE PASTORAL CARE marily directed towards the shepherd the church of God” duties and skills of pastoral (i.e., an adult Bible class. The subject healing (binding up the wounds TO CHRIST’S CHURCH Church.” The essence of oversight (Acts 20:28), and he later tells the shepherding) work. was “New Testament Church of the injured). All four of these Those who lead the New in the local church is not priestly, Ephesian church that the risen A number of years ago I was Government,” and the class leader activities are aspects of the ministry Testament church are called “over- but pastoral.58 The eldership of the Christ gave “pastors and teachers” appointed an elder at my assembly asked those in the class to list some of the Word. seers,” “elders,” or “pastors” (i.e., church is essentially pastoral, never to the church to equip the saints (Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel, of the distinctives of the assemblies. In the New Testament, we must “shepherds”; cf. Acts 20:17, 28; 1 mediatorial, and the words priest, for service (Eph. 4:11-12). Dubuque, Iowa). This was One woman offered, “Well, we emphasize, the pastoral oversight of Pet. 5:1-2). It is these terms that sacrifice, and altar as terms of cleri- Several years ago (May, 1997) a announced at the annual business don’t have a pastor.” I thought to the church is carried on by a team we should use when describing cal status and privilege are not number of us were invited by Grace meeting of the church. Afterwards, myself, “How awful!” How much — the word “elders” almost always those who lead the church. characteristic of apostolic teaching. Bible Chapel in St. Louis to partici- one of the members of the church healthier the local church that can occurs in the plural (Acts 14:23; Others can be misleading: When the term priest is used of the pate in a colloquium and each give came up, shook my hand, and said, say, “We have many pastors.” 20:17; 1 Tim. 4:14; Titus 1:5). The term “minister” is misleading church it is always in the plural, a lecture on the New Testament

published in Help and Food 62 (July, 1944): 287-98. For more 61 Joseph M. Vogl and John H. Fish III, eds., Understanding the Church constructions, and (2) there are no clear examples of nouns Heb. 5:12; James 3:1]. This evidence seems to suggest that the recent expressions of this point, see James Martin, “Dare to be a (Neptune: Loizeaux, 1999). being used in a plural TSKS construction to specify one group. pastors were part of the teachers in Eph. 4:11. This view is in Pastor!” Uplook (Nov., 2005): 15; idem., “New Testament Pastoral 62 Alexander Strauch, Biblical Eldership, 3d ed. (Littleton, CO: However, it goes too far to assert that there are two entirely dis- keeping with the semantics of the plural noun construction. Care,” Uplook (May, 2006): 24; idem., “Where is Your Pastor?” Lewis and Roth, 1995), 210. tinct groups (pastors and teachers) in Eph. 4:11. The following Wallace describes this as “the first-subset-of-second category,” Uplook (Nov., 2006): 2. In the November, 2006 issue of Uplook 63 Scholars have debated whether Paul intended to speak of one observations lead to the translation given above: (1) The two i.e., the first group [pastors] is a subset of the second [teachers]. Martin wrote, “In our day, the word ‘pastor’ has taken on a formal, gift (“pastor-teachers”) or two (“pastors and teachers”) in groups are united by one article which sets them apart from the Cf. Daniel B. Wallace, Greek Grammar Beyond the Basics ecclesiastical meaning. But the Greek word for ‘pastor’ (poim–en) is Ephesians 4:11. Most commentators have argued for one gift, other gifted leaders. The one article suggests that absolute (Grand Rapids; Zondervan, 1996), 270-84 [esp. 280, 284]. simply the word for ‘shepherd,’ which is how it is translated 17 out assuming that the construction tous de poimenas kai didaskalous is distinction is not in view. (2) In light of the fact that the terms 64 Strauch, Biblical Eldership, 45-48. of the 18 times it occurs in the New Testament ... Therefore, say- an example of Granville Sharp’s Rule. This rule states that in a “elders” and “pastors” describe the same body of men [Acts 65 C. H. Dodd, “The Primitive Preaching,” in The Apostolic ing that we don’t have a pastor is misleading. It’s true that we don’t TSKS construction (article-substantive-kai-substantive) the sec- 20:17, 28; 1 Peter 5:1-2], and since elders were to be teachers [1 Preaching and Its Developments (Chicago: Willett, Clark & Co., have a pastor in the officious, religious sense that the word has ond noun refers to the same person mentioned with the first Tim. 5:17; Titus 1:9], it is evident that those who were pastors 1937), 1-2. acquired in the years since the New Testament was written. noun when: (1) neither is impersonal; (2) neither is plural; (3) were to teach. (3) Presumably not all teachers were elders/pas- 66 G. P. Hugenberger, “Preach,” in The International Standard Bible But, hopefully, in the biblical sense of the word, we have neither is a proper name. The majority view is wrong for two tors. Only in Eph. 4:11 are pastors and teachers mentioned Encyclopedia, rev. ed., ed. Geoffrey W. Bromiley (Grand Rapids: several pastors.” reasons: (1) The Granville Sharp Rule does not apply to plural together. Other texts mention teachers without any hint that Eerdmans, 1986), 3:941-42. they must also be pastors [Rom. 12:7; 1 Cor. 12:28-29; 2 Tim 2:2;

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The teaching such elders do what another Gospel will call Scripture, to preaching, to teach- the study, and the telephone rather 5:19).”70 Another writes, “True will include preaching to the con- “teaching” (cf. Mt. 4:23 [“teaching It would do every ing” (RSV). The word for “preach- than the Bible.”68 Christian preaching must center on gregation, counseling individuals, in their synagogues and preaching ing” in 1 Timothy 4:13 is not In August 1977 during the the cross of Jesus Christ. The cross and training groups.64 the gospel...”] with Mk.1:39; Lk. elder good to reflect “proclamation” (ke–rygma) but Centennial Thanksgiving Service is the central doctrine of the Holy 4:44 [“preaching”]). In the public on the nature of his “exhortation” of Wycliffe College, Toronto, the Scriptures.”71 This certainly reflects TEACHING AND PREACH- ministry of the Lord the two don’t work and the priority (parakle–sis). Inherent in the word’s Archbishop of Canterbury, Donald the attitude of the apostle Paul who ING ARE OVERLAPPING seem to be sharply distinguished, meaning are the ideas “to summon, Coggan, an evangelical, reminded wrote to the Corinthians, RESPONSIBILITIES although the one (“preaching”) of preaching and to ask, to exhort, to comfort.” his audience that in his church the “Proclaiming to you the testimony When discussing the question of may differ in having more of an teaching. Too many Preaching, in short, demands a bishop gives each candidate a Bible of God...I determined to know preaching it is sometimes asked if element of proclamation than the response. The word “teaching” at his ordination. He said, “He does nothing among you except Jesus there is any difference between other. In the same Gospel the same view themselves (didaskalia) stresses the intellectual not go forth...primarily as an organ- Christ, and Him crucified” (1 Cor. preaching and teaching. Then activity can be referred to as both as “essentially element of teaching. The Word is izer or a financier or an entertainer; 2:1-2). University of Manchester (later “teaching” (Mk. 1:21) and “preach- to be expounded or explained.67 he goes as a man authorized by the One of these writers says that Cambridge) professor C. H. Dodd ing” (Mk. 1:38-39). Likewise at the administrators, whose It is easy to see the overlap in the Lord of the Church, entrusted with Christian preaching should point popularized the thesis that there – end of the Book of Acts we find symbols of ministry two activities. the deposit of the Christian revela- to the incarnation, and the other was. Preaching (kerygma), he Paul “preaching the kingdom of are the office rather In any case, it is a qualification tion, recorded in majestic outline to the cross. I shall not seek to argued, was the proclamation of God, and teaching concerning the of elders/pastors that they know the in the Book in his hand, and incar- solve this debate but shall be con- the death and resurrection of Jesus Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 28:31). than the study, and faith and are able to teach (1 Tim. nate in the Word made flesh.”69 tent to side with those who see the in the age of fulfillment with a Some have pressed the distinc- 3:2; Titus 1:9). In Acts 6 the apos- cross of Christ and not His incarna- summons to believe and repent. the telephone rather – tion and have argued that in the tles encouraged the selection of Foundation Stone #5: tion as occupying the center of Teaching (didache), on the other New Testament preaching is only than the Bible.” “the Seven,” who were the proto- A Conviction About Preaching gravity in New Testament hand, was ethical instruction given evangelistic and never takes place types of the later deacons. The thought.72 65 to believers. In short, Dodd distin- in a congregation of Christians, i.e., apostles gave themselves to the IT IS CHRISTOCENTRIC One might argue that Paul is guished preaching and teaching One well known preacher writes, our modern brand of preaching to a 22; Acts 13:14-43). In Acts 20:7 work that would later be assumed engaging in hyperbole when he says both by their content and their “All Christian preaching is meeting of believers is not to be we get a glimpse of an early meet- by elders, viz., “the ministry of the his preaching/teaching will focus audience. The distinction is not unabashedly Christological.” He found in the New Testament. This ing of the church in which they Word and prayer.” It would do on “nothing...except Jesus Christ, unimportant, and in most cases adds, “Christian preaching points is not true. In Old Testament times broke bread and listened to a every elder good to reflect on the and Him crucified.” After all, in preaching in the New Testament is the people of God were instructed nature of his work and the priority to the incarnation of God in Christ his epistles he addresses a broad 66 sermon from Paul. In 1 Timothy directed toward unbelievers. as the [flagpole] of truth and the in the Word (Deut. 31:9-13; Neh. 2:1-8, Paul instructs Timothy about of preaching and teaching. Too range of subjects including church However, the distinction must core of the Christian confession. 8:1-8; Mal. 2:7-9). In the New public prayer in church meetings, many view themselves as “essential- government and discipline, stew- not be over-pressed. In a number of ‘God was in Christ reconciling Testament we find the Lord Jesus and in 4:13 says, “Till I come, ly administrators, whose symbols of ardship, family relationships, sexual passages in the synoptic Gospels the world unto Himself’ (2 Cor. and the apostle Paul reading from attend to the public reading of ministry are the office rather than purity, responsibilities to the gov one Gospel will call “preaching” the Law and preaching (Lk. 4:16-

74 Chapell, Christ-Centered Preaching, 279. 67 George W. Knight III, The Pastoral Epistles, New International Clarke, 1960), xiv. He wrote, “Romanism (including its mutilat- 75 He adds, “The law and the prophets that precede and the apos- Greek Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids; Eerdmans, ed counterpart, Anglo-Catholicism) is a religion of the incarna- tolic ministry that follows the work of the cross make Jesus their 1992), 207-8. tion, the virtue of which is communicated by sacraments; center. Prophets, apostles, and the Savior all testify that all the 68 Stott, Between Two Worlds, 124. Protestantism is a religion of the atonement, the virtue of which Scriptures ultimately focus on the Redeemer. How then can we 69 Quoted by Stott, Between Two Worlds, 124. is appropriated by direct faith in Christ.” rightly expound them and not speak of him? Expository preach- 70 Mohler, “A Theology of Preaching,” 16. 73 Chapell adds, “In Paul’s mind, every subject, every address, and ing is Christ-centered preaching” (Chapell, Christ-Centered 71 Thomas F. Jones, “Preaching the Cross of Christ,” unpublished every epistle had a focus. Everything he did centered on making Preaching, 279-80). essay presented in 1976-77 homiletics lectures at Covenant the cross and its implications evident. In this sense, the ‘cross’ 76 Chapell, Christ-Centered Preaching, 275-76. Theological Seminary, St. Louis, MO. Cited in Chapell, Christ- reference functions as synecdoche, representing the entire matrix Centered Preaching, 277, n. 10. of God’s redemptive work past, present, and future, including the 72 Cf. the remarks of E. A. Litton, Introduction to Dogmatic resurrection, advocacy, and reign his victory through the cross Theology, ed. Philip E. Hughes (1892; reprint ed., London: James provides” (Christ-Centered Preaching, 278).

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notes, each text is a part of a con- centered focus without imposing aspects of the person and/or work flaws evident in the biographies of text. We must not only use our something on the text that isn’t of Christ. The moral commands even the greatest saints of the Old “exegetical magnifying glasses” to there? Chapell groups texts under of the Law of the Old Testament Testament. examine the details of the particular the following headings:77 exposed man’s sin (cf. Rom. 3:19, 4.) Resultant. We must be very passage we are going to expound. 20; 5:20; 7:8-13), and the cere- careful in expounding passages that We must also examine the text Text Disclosure monies demonstrated the need for demand obedience to God’s will. with a “theological fish-eye lens” to In some passages there is a direct sacrifice. The alert Old Testament There is a danger that the preacher see how the passage relates to the reference to Christ or to some believer would learn of his own will imply that God’s favor depends larger context of chapter and book. aspect of His Messianic work. inability to keep the divine com- on our obedience. “Divine love The Bible has an overarching story Specific mention of Jesus or His mandments and would understand made conditional upon human line that begins in Genesis 3:15 saving activity may occur in a how his need of forgiveness would obedience is mere legalism.”79 We with the promise of the seed of the Gospel account, the Book of Acts, be satisfied (Gal. 3:11-13). Paul, for must always preach from the per- woman who would ultimately an epistle, or the Book of example, says that in the story of spective of the New Covenant. defeat the Serpent and his progeny Revelation. Abraham’s justification is imbedded Anything good that we do is the and ends with the complete victory a theology of grace that prepared result of the grace of God (Eph. of Christ and His people and their Type Disclosure the way for the coming Redeemer 2:10). All of my faith and practice blissful home on the new earth. The person or work of Christ is also (Rom. 4:23-25). Incidentally, an is the fruit of what God would do, Every passage of the Bible, whether evident in Old Testament types. A exposition of the Ten Command- has done, or will do through the Old Testament story, psalm, proverb, type is an Old Testament person, ments that fails to tell people of ministry of Christ. prophecy or New Testament Gospel, event, or thing, which prefigures their own inability to keep those One important warning needs ernment, the history of Israel, etc. sufferings of Messiah. “And begin- history, or epistle, is part of the NT salvation truths. commandments is not Christ- to be made at this point. We must This proves, does it not, that Paul ning with Moses and with all the overarching biblical story line of centered. avoid the attempt to make Jesus did more than talk and write about prophets, He explained to them the redemption of fallen creatures Context Disclosure 3.) Reflective. Where a passage appear in every biblical account. Jesus and His crucifixion. Appar- the things concerning himself in through the promised Christ. God’s Here Chapell turns to the thou- neither predicts nor prepares for That is not what we mean by ently Paul did not see it that way. all the Scriptures” (Lk. 24:25-27).74 revelation of this story of Christ sands of verses in which there is no the Redeemer’s work the preacher Christ-centered preaching.80 “Thus,” Chapell writes, “the testi- was progressive; it began in seed reference to Christ. Every passage, should explain how the text reflects Remember that the overarching In his mind, says Chapell, “every mony of Scripture encircles Jesus.”75 form and only gradually came to he says, contains one of four key facets of the redemptive mes- story line of the Bible is redemptive subject, every address, and every As we read Scripture, however, full growth in the New Testament. redemptive foci.78 sage. What does this passage tell us and Christocentric. “Redemptive epistle had a focus. Everything he we find that much of it makes no A Christ-centered message from of: (1) God’s nature that provides history is the history of Christ.” did centered on making the cross explicit reference to Christ and His any passage of Scripture is simply 1.) Predictive. Some passages the ministry of Christ, or (2) of Some preachers, however, are 73 and its implications evident.” As work. There are many passages in a message that is related to the predict the redemptive work of human nature that requires the determined to find some aspect of Chapell points out, Paul was only the New Testament, let alone the redemptive work of God. The God by making mention of the ministry of Christ? What in this Christ or His work under every following the example of His Lord Old Testament that make no men- Christological features of a passage Person or work of Christ. Messianic passage reflects an aspect of God’s rock or behind every bush of the who stated the Christological focus tion of the cross, the Holy Spirit or may only be there in seed form, yet psalms and Old Testament prophe- nature that prompts the work of Old Testament. To make Him of all Scripture when He walked the grace of God. How can Christ- they should be noted. “You do not cies have this focus. A sermon on Christ? The passage may reveal somehow magically appear in every with the two disciples on the road centered messages be preached explain what an acorn is...if you Isaiah 40 that offers comfort to certain attributes of God’s nature passage they are forced to resort to to Emmaus. He drew their atten- on such passages? At this point do not in some way relate it to an God’s people without mentioning (justice, holiness, goodness, loving- figurative, bizarre, and allegorical tion to the Old Testament prophets Chapell makes an important con- oak tree.”76 Christ as the future source of God’s kindness faithfulness, provision, exegesis. There is an old story and their message about the tribution to our thinking. As he How can we have a Christ- comfort is not being Christ-cen- deliverance) that make no mention about a Christian fundamentalist tered. The Old Testament must be of Christ. Yet it makes sense of who, when asked what was gray, 77 Ibid., 281-88. read from the vantage point of Paul’s comment that “Whatever furry, and lived in a tree, respond- 78 Ibid., 282. the NT. was written in earlier times was ed, “It sure sounds like a squirrel, 79 Ibid., 287. 80 Ibid., 300-303. 2.) Preparatory. The inspired written for our instruction” but I know the answer to every 81 Carl Trueman, “A Revolutionary Balancing Act,” Themelios 27 intention of other texts is to pre- (Rom. 15:4). These redemptive les- question is, ‘Jesus.’”81 (Spring, 2002): 1-4 (esp. 2). pare God’s people to understand sons may also be seen in the human This story humorously illus-

40 Journey: Winter 2007 Journey: Winter 2007 41 Journey | magazine Journey | magazine trates how a central and inescap- coming Christ and Satan, the god College for many years. One of his aspect of our brokenness to spiritual without drawing attention to the is that our sermons must be able truth can be distorted. The of this world. Every biblical text requirements was that each student wholeness.”91 Chapell argues that stunning fact that the Bible takes redemptive and not sub-Christian.95 central truth is illustrated by Paul serves a function in the great drama write a “Philosophy of Preaching.” much preaching today is “sub- pains to tarnish the reputation of They must be gospel lessons and who could describe his ministry as of the Son’s crusade against the Jim would then share his own phi- Christian.” Many messages advo- almost every saint and patriarch in not morality lessons. They must be knowing nothing “among you Serpent.84 losophy with the class, and his first cate morality and compassion, yet its pages. When we speak on such delivered to people whose best except Jesus Christ, and Him cru- point was, “Preaching must be done they are sub-Christian because they characters we must be like the works always remain tainted by cified” (1 Cor. 2:2). He proclaimed IT IS REDEMPTIVE by saved and devoted believers.” In ignore the sinfulness of man, and author of Hebrews who points to their sins. When we have done that in Christ “are hidden all the “The cross looms as the paramount short, those who have understood they neglect the grace of God. their reliance upon the grace of everything that God has command- treasures of wisdom and knowl- symbol and event of Christian the breathless wonder of having Such sermons would be perfectly God as the source of holy traits ed we are still “unworthy slaves” edge” (Col. 2:3). It is one thing to proclamation. [It is] simultaneously been forgiven must do it. “All acceptable to the congregations of (chapter 11). (Luke 17:10). recognize that Christ is at the cen- the most divisive and the most uni- Christian preaching is resurrection a Jewish synagogue or a Unitarian There is the “Be Good” or There are many “Be” messages fying event in human history.” It is ter of the Bible’s story. It is another preaching. The cross brings the Church.92 These messages send the moralistic message that leaves the in the Bible, Chapell admits. They to use mediocre and allegorical embraced or is rejected as the most eclipse of all human pretensions sub-Christian message that godli- impression that certain behaviors are “not wrong in themselves; they audacious and foolish of messages.85 hermeneutics to import Him into and enlightenment.”88 ness is a product of human endeav- will secure a person’s relationship are wrong by themselves. People It is utter foolishness to those who every single text of Scripture.82 One of the significant contri- or. God’s blessing is actuated or with God. Such preaching implies cannot do or be what God requires Years ago one of my Dallas reject Christ and, humanly speak- butions of Bryan Chapell’s book, motivated by human works. that if we obey God He will love without the work of Christ in, for, Seminary professors, Dr. J. Dwight ing, there is nothing we can do to Christ-Centered Preaching, is his Such legalistic attitudes are us. No, God loves us and saves us and through them.... Christ-cen- Pentecost, told me of preaching on erase the offense of the cross (1 emphasis on the fallenness of man. very subtle. Do we Christians apart from our obedience, and He tered preaching does not fail to Daniel 4 at a Brethren assembly in Cor. 1:21-25). We must avoid the Every sermon, he says, must have a (preachers as well as non-preach- sanctifies us as an act of grace present the moral imperatives His New Zealand. One of the congrega- allure of clever “techniques”— clearly articulated “Fallen Condi- ers) not feel more holy when our as well. lordship demands, but neither does methods that will appeal to fallen tion was quite surprised that he tion Focus” or “FCF.”89 As he writes devotions are a bit longer, when There is the “Be Disciplined” it deny Him the position of honor did not view the high tree of man’s love of entertainment his sermon, says Chapell, the we’ve read a couple more chapters, message that exhorts the believer in all that His Word says or in all (“signs”) or intellectualism (“wisdom Nebuchadnezzar’s dream as a type preacher must ask the mutual when we parent well and our chil- to improve his/her relationship that His creatures do.”96 of the cross of Christ. Similar of the world”) — in preaching the human condition that his contem- dren go on for God, when we offer with the Lord by more diligent use attempts have been made to see Word (cf. 1 Cor. 2:4-5). As James porary hearers share with those to wise advice, when tears come as we of the disciplines of the Christian Denney plainly said, “No man can “You might as well Rahab’s red cord83 or the saddle on or for whom the text was written speak of some Scriptural truth? life (Bible study, prayer, attendance give at once the impression that he Rachel’s camel as pictures of some that requires the grace of God.90 There is nothing wrong with any of at church meetings). God becomes expect to raise the element of Christ’s work. himself is clever and that Jesus In 2 Timothy 3:16 Paul wrote, these actions — unless we believe an ogre in the sky who must be dead by whispering in Christ is mighty to save.”86 Christ must not be artificially “All Scripture is inspired by God that our actions, apart from God’s bribed by our disciplines. There are their ears, as hope to wedged into every passage. Yet we “Only the redeemed,” says ...that the man of God might be redemptive work in our lives, have real benefits to these disciplines, as Mohler, “those who know the cross retain a Christ-centered focus when adequate.” This would suggest that merit in themselves.93 we know, but they do not make save souls by preaching we remember that this passage as the power and wisdom of God, even the most gifted of believers Chapell warns against “The God love me more, nor do they to them, if it were not understand the glory and the bur- takes place as part of the story line remains spiritually incomplete apart Deadly ‘Be’ Sermons.”94 There is ward off His irritation with us or 87 for the agency of the of the Bible, which deals with the den of preaching.” Mr. James from God’s revelation. “Scripture the “Be Like” sermon that focuses warrant His favor. tremendous battle between the Catron taught the course in continually aims to restore some on a notable biblical character The bottom line, says Chapell, Holy Spirit.” homiletics at Emmaus Bible

95 82 Graeme Goldsworthy, “Ontology and Biblical Theology: A 86 James Denney, Studies in Theology (London: Hodder and Ibid., 293-94. Response to Carl Trueman’s Editorial: ‘A Revolutionary Balancing Stoughton, 1895; reprint ed., Grand Rapids: Baker, 1976), 161. 96 Ibid., 294-95. 97 Act,’” Themelios 28 (Autumn, 2002): 37-45 (esp. 49). 87 Mohler, “A Theology of Preaching,” 18. Mohler, “A Theology of Preaching,” 15. 98 83 Some preachers have seen in Rahab’s red cord a figure of the blood 88 Ibid. Mohler, “A Theology of Preaching,” 18. 99 of Christ, while others conclude that the scarlet represents sin. 89 Chapell, Christ-Centered Preaching, 48-52, 269-72, 299-300. Charles H. Spurgeon, New Park Street Pulpit, 5:211, quoted by These truths (the blood of Christ and the sinfulness of man) are 90 Ibid., 49-51. “The Fallen Condition Focus (FCF), says Chapell, Mohler, “A Theology of Preaching,” 18. found elsewhere in Scripture, but neither subject is dealt with in “reveals a text’s and a sermon’s purpose” (48). 100 Mohler, “A Theology of Preaching,” 20. this text (Josh. 2:18-21). Cf. Chapell, Christ-Centered Preaching, 91 Ibid., 269-70. 302. 92 Ibid., 274. 84 Ibid., 301. 93 Ibid., 288-89. 85 Mohler, “A Theology of Preaching,” 17. 94 Ibid., 289-93.

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Conclusion gave His charge to His church to work of the Spirit as the Word is R. Albert Mohler, Jr. has written, “preach the good news to all studied and proclaimed. “A theology of preaching should creation” (Mk. 16:15). Through Mohler concludes, “a theology take Trinitarian form, reflecting the His cross He has provided atone- of preaching is essentially doxology. very nature of the self-revealing ment for His people. The ultimate purpose of the sermon God.” Mohler presents his own is to glorify God and to reveal a THE SPIRIT WHO theology of preaching which rests glimpse of His glory to His cre- ILLUMINATES on the following elements: ation. The ground of preaching is The “The preacher stands before the none other than the revelation THE GOD WHO SPEAKS congregation as the external minis- which God has addressed to us in We preach because God has spo- ter of the Word, but the Holy Spirit Scripture. The goal of preaching is Journey of Life ken, and He has called the church works as the internal minister.”98 no more and no less than faithful- C. William Pollard to speak of Him. Such an endeavor Spurgeon warned, “You might as ness to this calling. The glory of “Is there some form of hierarchy in God’s would “smack of unmitigated arro- well expect to raise the dead by preaching is that God has promised gance and over-reaching were it whispering in their ears, as hope to to use preachers and preaching to calling with a special place for what people not for the fact that God Himself save souls by preaching to them, if accomplish His purpose and bring often refer to as “full-time Christian service?” it were not for the agency of the 100 has set us to the task. In this light, glory to himself.” ✟ preaching is not an act of arro- Holy Spirit.”99 gance, but of humility.”97 The Reformation saw a new acknowledgement of the union of This article is a written transcript of an the reality that life is always lived afternoons in the fall playing soccer, Word and Spirit and expressed it as THE SON WHO SAVES address given to students at looking forward but more often in the spring playing baseball, and “the internal witness of the Spirit.” Convocation on August 27, 2007 than not better understood when late nights in the dorm having fun. Mohler notes that “Jesus serves as The Spirit convicts “the world at Emmaus Bible College. we have the opportunity to look The farewells will be very difficult. our model, as well as the content of concerning sin, and righteousness, David MacLeod David MacLeod received his theological education back. “So, what’s next? I am moving our preaching.” As Mark recorded and judgment” (Jn. 16:8), and the at Dallas Theological Seminary (Th.M., Ph.D.). It is a privilege to share some The following is a letter I to Kansas City where I will be in his Gospel, “Jesus came preach- Spirit illumines the Word so that In the past he has taught at Western Bible College thoughts about the Author of our received from a graduate of another closer to my family. I’ll find a job and Dallas Theological Seminary. He is Dean for ing” (Mk. 1:14). He served as the men might understand (1 Cor. Biblical Studies at Emmaus Bible College where he beginnings and the One who knows Christian college. It reflects what and pay off my student loans. What ultimate standard of what human 2:12-14). It is the Spirit who has served on the faculty since 1983. Dave also what is our future. We often think may be some common understand- kind of a job? I really don’t know – preaching is to be, wonderfully serves as Associate Editor of The Emmaus Journal. of college as a time of preparation. ings or misunderstandings of God’s construction work or some type of cleanses sinners’ hearts and gives He frequently ministers the Word across the U.S. modeling the “unflinching forth- them new life (Jn. 3:3-5). The and Canada and at his home church where he has For many, it is also a time of transi- calling: administrative work for a business? served for many years as an elder. David and his tion from teenage to adulthood. “I am very happy to report that, I also will apply to various mission telling of God’s gracious salvation.” preacher and His hearers are wife Linda have four grown children. Now if this is a time of preparation, by God’s grace and fullness, I actu- agencies. I feel called to the mission He not only preached but He dependent upon the illuminating what is God preparing you to do? ally did graduate. For the first time field and in a year or two, I hope to All of us are on a journey of since age five, I am not a student. be in full-time Christian service. life. A journey that has a purpose “It’s been a good four years of Where, I don’t know. Ethiopia? and meaning unique to each one of learning. I was a Bible major and Papua New Guinea? India? I us, with a calling from God both to English minor. I can now read in will wait for God’s call to the do and to be. the Greek New Testament. I right place. As I look back on my life and know phrases like: inaugurated “Please pray for me in the next share some thoughts about my jour- eschatology and hermeneutical couple of months. It is going to be ney and how God has called and fallacy. I am beginning to have quite a transition and, frankly, I am worked in my life, I realize that you more confidence in my interpreta- not looking forward to it. I am leaving may be looking forward, and may tion of scripture. a Christian community to live have some uncertainties about “I have made wonderful friends among ordinary, working Americans. God’s purpose and call for your life. here, in breakfast Bible studies, in I am expecting a considerable These uncertainties are all part of noon prayer sessions for missions, in amount of uncertainty and

44 Journey: Winter 2007 Journey: Winter 2007 45 Journey | magazine Journey | magazine loneliness, but I hope to develop have to say about this subject of Jesus has made me His own. And come only when we are at home This resulted in a drive for what relationship with God, to know His some friends at the local church I calling? one thing I do: forgetting what lies with our Lord. I thought was success, which allowed forgiveness for my mistakes, to will be attending.” behind and straining forward to what Each of us are at various stages my law profession to become a jeal- understand how to spend my life for So what was this student saying Eph 2: 8 - 10 lies ahead. I press forward the goal on this journey, and there may ous mistress in my life, only to be Him in the lives of others, to realize about his understanding of God’s For by grace you have been saved for the prize of the upward call of be more than we realize who are stopped by God’s intervention with a God’s ownership of who I am and calling? through faith. And this is not your God in Christ. traveling on this road. Let us not serious health condition. This was what I have, and my responsibility to Is there some form of hierarchy own doing: it is the gift of God, not forget that there is room in God’s followed by a dramatic change in my be a steward of all that He has given in God’s calling with a special place a result of works, so that no one may The Biblical principles from call for such different travelers as the life, which involved leaving the me. for what people often refer to as boast. For we are his workmanship, those passages are clear. Our starting wise men from the east, Zaccheus in practice of law and going to serve as I have found that the world of “full-time Christian service?” Will created in Christ Jesus for good point must be with the Caller, not the sycamore tree, and the woman at an administrator and faculty member business need not be just a place I miss out if I don’t do something works which God prepared before the call. We are being called to the well. at Wheaton College. It was during where you make money and create that fits into this category? Should I hand that we should walk in them. someone — to a relationship with There is a priority and focus to this phase of my life that God began wealth, but it can also be a place think of God’s call in the context of God and His Son Jesus Christ. It is a our calling, with a race to be won. to teach me lessons of balance and where you can engage those ordinary a location or special place of service? Phil 2:3 - 8 call that involves who we are We have been chosen. We are not spiritual maturity. people with the reality of your faith. Is it only about what I should do and Do nothing from rivalry or conceit becoming, as we make choices about our own. We have been bought with In 1977, my path took another It was Henry Ford who was quoted as the place where I should do it, or is but in humility count others more what we do. a price and our priority is to seek turn, when I left Wheaton and saying about his employees, “Why is it more about who I am and who I significant than yourselves. Let each First the Kingdom of God and His joined the leadership team at what it I always get the whole person am becoming? And where does of you look not only to his own Understanding His Calling Righteousness. was then a small public company when all I really wanted was a pair “ordinary work” with those “ordinary interests but also to the interests of God’s call is all inclusive and As we understand more of God’s called ServiceMaster, and which of hands?” Americans” fit in? The ordinary peo- others. Have this mind among your- covers every aspect of life — all of calling, we realize that our quest for had as its corporate objectives: The people coming to work ple that God so loves and for whom selves which was also in Christ Jesus what we do. The whole of life is a life is not so much about what we every day are more than a pair of Jesus died. who though He was in the form of response to God’s call with no room want but instead what God wants. • To Honor God in All We Do hands, and cannot be understood God did not want equality with God for a two-tier view of life with a He wants to be our friend. He wants • To Help People Develop or measured only in terms of their A Temporal and an a thing to be grasped, but made higher sacred calling and a lower, us to follow in the steps of His Son, • To Pursue Excellence economic or physical needs. Nor can Eternal purpose Himself nothing, taking on the form more mundane calling. Jesus Christ, and to be ministers of • To Grow Profitably they be measured solely by their As I ask these questions, I am of a servant, being born in the like- As Luther put it, the works of reconciliation and ambassadors of intellectual or educational accom- reminded of a friend of mine who ness of men. And being found in monks and priests, however holy, do His love with a message of hope and I was soon asked to serve as plishments. There also is a spiritual put this message on his voicemail human form He humbled Himself by not differ in the sight of God from salvation. President and CEO, and there were dimension to the human condition. at work and his answering machine becoming obedient to the point of the works of a laborer in the field or many changes and choices to make It is this spiritual dimension that at home: “Hello? This is not an death, even death on the cross. that of a manservant or maidservant My Personal Calling as we grew the business over the influences moral behavior and the answering device. It is a questioning in the home. For me, this calling and journey next 25 years. For most of this time, development of character and is the device. There are only two questions Eph 4: 1 Calling is all about serving oth- of life has focused on a growing rela- we were doubling in size every 3.5 genesis of love, not hate; good, not in life that are relevant: ‘Who are I, therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, ers, not about self-gratification. It is tionship with God and those He has to 4 years. When I retired from evil. It is this spiritual dimension of you’ and ‘What do you want?’ Please urge you to walk in a manner worthy about excelling in what we do and so brought across my path — especially the Firm in 2001, we were people that raises give your answer after the tone.” of the calling to which you have bringing honor to the One Who has my wife of 48 years, Judy, our four employing or managing over Who are we and what do we been called. called us. It involves both faith and children and their spouses, and our 250,000 people and our serv- want? Every one of us is a special hard work — and our choice to do 15 grandchildren. ices stretched from Karachi, creation of God with a dimension of Phil 2: 12, 13 both — with the results dependent Yes, there have been times of Pakistan to Tokyo, Japan. freedom to make choices about how ...Work out your own salvation with not only upon our own doing, but doubt and despair, especially during So you see, my life has we shall then live. And as we exer- fear and trembling, for it is God who also upon God’s help. those difficult teenage years, and the not been a simple, logical, or cise this freedom, God is calling us works in you both to will and to do Calling is about a journey. sudden death of my father when I predictable sequence of events. God to a way of life that has both a tem- for His good pleasure. During our time here on earth, we was 18. There followed the chal- has chosen many different people poral and an eternal purpose. A call- never arrive. We are always, so to lenges of college and law school and and circumstances to break, mold, ing that is sacred in its significance Phil 3: 12 - 14 speak, on the road. There are way seeking to establish a home, support and develop me. The most exciting and more often than not involves Not that I have already obtained this points of learning that involve a family, and develop my profession. thing about the process is that it is the secular in its application. or am already perfect, but I press on accomplishment and failure, joy and During this time, there were also continuing. There are not always What does the word of God to make it my own because Christ sadness. Our final destination will feelings of inadequacy and concern answers to every question, but during about whether I would measure up. this journey, I have learned about what it means to have a growing

46 Journey: Winter 2007 Journey | magazine Journey | A Word Along the Way On the question of God and His role in Dear Bill, we will serve the Lord.” both the act of creation and the act When I grew up in China, religions Now, the Hebrew word that is Proven Character... of redemption. were forbidden and Mao’s book translated “serve” is Avodah, and Chris Lange As a business leader, I wanted became our bible. When I was five or can also mean “worship” or “work.” to excel at generating profits and six years old, I could recite Mao’s quo- Yes, that’s right — our work, what- creating value for shareholders. If I tations and even use them to judge and ever or wherever it might be, can Many Americans today have given and priorities secondary to those of everyone else. I felt that I had didn’t want to play by these rules, I lecture the kids in the neighborhood. become a center of worship as we up on the current state of public they serve. We are to be diligent, lost all sense of my own personality, didn’t belong in the ballgame. But I Mao said, “Serve the people. bring alive the reality that Jesus affairs, becoming hardened to and generous, gentle, grateful, humble, that the believers around me were also tried to encourage an environ- Leaders should be public servants.” lived and died for the purpose that suspicious of so many politicians, joyful, and patient. We are to be all the same, sounded the same, ment where the work place could This coincides with some of Service- those He created and loved may sports heroes, or media person responsible, reverent, selfless, sin- and did the same things. This both- be an open community, where the Master’s moral standards. When I know Him as God and Savior. alities, perhaps sensing that cere, and servant-minded. ered me because I could not seem question of a person’s moral and think deeply, I see the difference that This is the will of God, and our destructive self-interest and moral In 1970, when I was saved, my to estimate my own personal spiritual development and the exis- makes one work so successfully and the journey of life should be a response compromise are beyond change and previous life experience was totally growth in Christ, for I felt lost in tence of God and how one related other collapse fatally. It must be the to this call. correction. Each day brings another different than what I was to come some huge “Christian conglomer- the claims of their faith with the starting point of ServiceMaster to God has called each of us to be implosion of character to the to know as life in Christ. Littleton ate” of blended character distinc- demands of their work were issues honor God and that every individual in the world but not part of it. He television screen. Bible Chapel was the nurturing tion and behavior patterns. of discussion, debate and — yes — has been created in His image with dig- has called us to be excellent in what even learning understanding and nity and worth. we do, whether we call it a job, pro- If this is true, dare I ask if it has ground for my infant Christian It was not until I read C. S. acceptance. I considered the people ServiceMaster is designed to be a fession, or ministry. And when we affected the local church? Believers character and life in the Spirit. I Lewis’ Mere Christianity that I dis- of our firm as, in fact, the soul of big, tall tree with strong roots, which excel in what we do, whatever that are to shine forth “as lights in the learned God’s Word and learned of covered God was in the business of the firm. penetrate extensively to almost every may be — as a lawyer, businessper- midst of a crooked and perverse the amazing movement of the Holy giving me back all the unique per- For me, my work has been a corner of a person’s daily life. It is son, minister or educator — we can generation.” To be sure, Christian Spirit in my life. In the amazement sonality that He always intended ministry and the business firm has beginning to grow in mine. live and share our faith in a way character is meant to reflect the of it all, however, I felt after many me to have — for Him — as I gave become a channel for fulfilling and that cannot be ignored or con- loveliness of Christ as believers months that my character — that up all that I was doing to find my living my faith; a channel that has Shu Zhang is one of those ordi- tained. In so doing, we are able to take on His holy character in their is, my understanding of my new life true self. I realized then that God reached from the janitor’s closet in nary people that we had the oppor- respond to the Caller, not just the daily lives. Believers should be in Christ and my new behavior, was intimately acquainted with all Saudi Arabia to the Great Hall of tunity to meet and engage in a call, and His will for the whole of available, making their schedules had taken on a “sameness” like that my ways and desired that I know the People in Beijing, China — work-a-day world. In the workplace, our life. May God richly bless you, from sweeping streets in Osaka, she was confronted with life choices and may you draw closer to Him. ✟ Japan to ringing the bell of the New that go beyond doing a job or earn- York Stock Exchange. The market- ing a living; choices about who she place has provided a wonderful is becoming and whether she would opportunity for me to embrace and respond to God’s offer of love and engage those who do not believe forgiveness — a choice that only the way I do, but who God loves she could make. and who, by my words and actions, As Joshua came to the closing C. William Pollard should see the reality of His love. days of his leadership, he challenged C. William Pollard is a retired CEO of the people of Israel to fear God and ServiceMaster, an international Fortune 500 serve Him with faithfulness. company. During his leadership, ServiceMaster was Closing Thoughts recognized by Fortune magazine as the #1 service As I close, I present to you another It was a challenge, not a com- company among the Fortune 500. Bill is a gradu- letter from a college graduate — mand, for God does not compel ate of Wheaton College, Wheaton, Illinois, and anyone to follow or worship Him. he received a J.D. from Northwestern University one of our Chinese employees who School of Law. He currently serves as had graduated from a University in In Joshua’s conclusion, he empha- a trustee of Wheaton College and is actively Beijing and had assisted me in the sized this point when he said, “But involved in teaching and speaking on subjects if serving the Lord seems undesir- relating to management, ethics and integrating one’s development of our business in faith with his or her work. China: able to you, then choose for your- selves this day whom you will serve...but as for me and my house,

48 Journey: Winter 2007 Journey: Winter 2007 49 Journey | magazine Journey | A Word Along the Way

who had and would continue to do Let me suggest that godly ter developed and maintained in Timothy 3: 16-17, “All Scripture is essential Christianity: it bears the the work in me. In 1 Thessalonians Christian character is more accu- the body of Christ? For one thing, inspired by God and profitable for enduring fruit of transformation, it 2:13, we read, “And for this reason rately based on our sincere desire, the development of character is not teaching, for reproof, for correction, marks unmistakably the truth of we also constantly thank God that first and foremost, to please God meant to be a means to an end for for training in righteousness; that God in my life, and it reveals when you received from us the in everything we do. us; it is, rather, God’s unique and the man of God may be adequate, authentic character. word of God’s message, you accept- wonderful means of shaping us so equipped for every good work.” In the crucible of our lives in ed it not as the word of men, but that we bring Him glory. And why would I begin here? If I Christ, when the fire is turned up, for what it really is, the word of The one character trait that The one character trait that am not walking in the truth, I must we know what rises to the top. The God, which also performs its work should always be true of us should always be true of us all is “back up spiritually” and take the dross, the evidence of our sinful Him in the same way. My trans- in you who believe.” And what is all is authenticity. authenticity. steps necessary to get matters right nature, reminds us of what will formed life was because of Him and the significance of this? It is the Walking caricatures of the faith with God and with the body of remain in us until He returns. The for Him. He desired me to be with performing of God’s holy work of are both dangerous spiritually and Christ. If I ignore the truth, then I stakes are high, as Satan desires to Him. I realized as well that all reconciliation, justification, and This truth ought to help us as injurious to the body. In Francis jeopardize myself and those around destroy us and the work of Christ those around me were in the same sanctification that is changing and believers to understand that being Schaeffer’s book The Mark of the me and will be ill equipped for in us. Make no mistake about it: intensely personal relationship with renewing us into His likeness. patient is not an appliqué, some Christian, he writes that the true service to the body. This is difficult We as Christians are subject to the Him and His Word. I discovered Whatever this process initiates, and moral overlay that a Christian mark of authenticity is unfeigned because it often may be embarrass- same pressures and life calamities as then as I know now that the wherever it takes us, believers are “puts on” at the start of the day. love for one another — tangible, ing and humiliating. And yet, are unbelievers, and we may know dynamics of transformation were continually and inevitably changed Being patient stems from the man- real, genuine love for others — though the heat of embarrassment suffering in our families even more the central issues with which I into the likeness of His character. date in Scripture to regard others both for believers and for unbeliev- may linger on my face, the eternal intensely than others. But what needed to be occupied. Any kind I believe there are important, as more important than ourselves: ers. If men are to know that Jesus consequences must take prece- must come forth in the heat of of Christian character development practical issues with which a “Do nothing from selfishness or was sent by the Father and that dence. This is authentic character. refinement is proven character that would follow as God would ordain. believer must contend in order to empty conceit, but with humility Christianity is real, then there is reflects our loving Savior. The develop character. We do not grow of mind let each of you regard one no other alternative. And if God’s Believers Also Must Have order of the process that the apostle in character by examining a list of another as more important than Word alone is the source of our the Right Heart Attitude Paul gives us in Romans 5 is clear: himself; do not merely look out for instruction and training, then the tribulation, perseverance, proven Let me suggest that godly desirable traits, choosing the ones About Forgiveness Christian character is more we like the best (or think have the your own personal interests, but work of the Holy Spirit in us is character, hope. May we all be also for the interests of others” more necessary and more awesome The Word tells us that we must found authentic in this process and accurately based on our sin- greatest impact on others), and then by trying to practice them. (Phil. 2: 3). Believers cannot have each day of our public lives. forgive others as Jesus has forgiven able to echo what we read in Job cere desire, first and fore- This is essentially a formula for the godly character trait of patience I suggest that developing and us — totally, completely, unre- 23:10: “But He knows the way I most, to please God in failure, or at best, superficiality. until it is firmly embedded in our maintaining godly Christian char- servedly, and undeservedly. This is take; when He has tried me, I shall everything we do. Consider patience, for example. hearts and minds from God’s Word. acter begins and continues as we also difficult for us, but we must come forth as gold.” ✟ We often try to be a very patient Our practical demonstration of walk in the truth of what Jesus asks learn to forgive without holding person because we know we are Christian character in the midst of us to do. So what are earmarks of others in emotional debt for their As an unbeliever I didn’t know supposed to be patient with believ- the local church may very well true character in Christ? perceived wrongs against us. In my what I really wanted and needed ers — and with those folks outside become unrealistic and uncomfort- own life I must learn not to pick up and desired. But I was locked into the faith. In my own life, I try to able if our own agendas place Believers Need to Have every offense, whether real or imag- a futile struggle to authenticate my live harmoniously with others and unreasonable expectations on those ined, because that causes me to the Right Attitude About Chris Lange personality and make it all things to exercise patience with everyone. with whom we live and work and bear all the emotional load of the Reproof and Correction Chris Lange is the Chair of the General Education to all people. Any character I may And yet, I am an impatient person, fellowship. When this happens, the anger and frustration I may feel. I Department at Emmaus where he has served on the have developed was a product of sometimes demonstrably with peo- emotional bonds of love, respect, This may come privately, in must learn to reconcile in love and faculty since 2000. Chris and his wife Nancy have conscience, prompted by the Holy then be refreshed in the Spirit, for four grown children and are enjoying their first what I perceived would make me ple and things that frustrate my and devotion tend to weaken, and grandson. accepted by others. When I was schedule and agenda. Hence, does they strain the unity that must be Spirit, or it may come from another this has ongoing spiritual conse- saved, I knew I could never be the my outward character reveal what maintained in the body. believer whom the Spirit uses to quences. God calls me to this high- same and knew that it was God is not authentic inwardly? How, then, is Christian charac- convict us of sin. We read in 2 er standard of behavior because it is

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12:5 and Galatians 2:8, the Lord the Lord lead us in love and happi- people can’t agree with the rest of Dr. revealed the roots of my frustra- ly He led us into even more under- the assembly and decide to leave tion: I believed that unity meant standing. We had a tender time of and start a new assembly, I would uniformity. It was a wrong idea, healing remaining hurts. call it a “church split.” Yet even MacLeod and had held me fast in frustration Here’s what I learned in a this can be good (good because and guilt. Here’s what I read: phrase: “Seek to understand.” God may use the new assembly, Faculty member Dave MacLeod leads us in a public forum 1 Corinthians 12:5 There are This became the key to freedom. too). A “church plant” is some- Asks to discuss issues pertinent to contemporary Christian life. differences of ministries, but the Don’t leave in frustration. thing that is planned. Our own Last issue he asked the following question: same Lord. Rather, pray and seek to under- assembly is growing, and when it And then a few days later... stand the roots of the frustration. gets to be a certain size — large Gal 2:8 He who worked effec- In this seeking we discovered the enough for a group to leave without Some time ago a friend bemoaned the splitting of an assembly with which he was tively in Peter for the apostleship to frustration came from the idea we destabilizing the original church — acquainted. He said,“I wonder if it is ever possible for a local church to split the circumcised also worked effec- must all stay in the same place and we will amicably divide. amicably?” That’s my question for this issue. Here are some related tively in me toward the Gentiles do the same thing (unity means questions you may want to consider as you write your answer: (1) Is I found that the one and same uniformity). Steve Mizel responds: Spirit worked two very different Seek to understand if the root I thought it was an interesting frustration a good reason for leaving your local church? (2) Is the ministries. Paul’s focus was born idea is biblical. Knowing the truth question, but I want to put a twist desire for a different leadership style or ministry style a good of the Spirit and focused on the still sets men free. When we real- on it. What is the difference reason for leaving your local church? (3) What are some good Gentiles; Peter’s focus was also born ized we could have unity with between a “church split” and a reasons for starting a new assembly? (4) How large should of the Spirit but directed toward believers without uniformity of “church plant?” Is a split ever good, the Jews. GOD was at work in method, we were set free. We were an assembly be before the elders agree to “release” a even if it is amicable? I also found these desires. It was this under- able to set about doing a new work. it interesting that the question was group of innovators to start a hive-off assembly?” standing that freed me from the Finally, let love hold impa- framed in terms of an “amicable wrong idea and directed me into tience in check. The Lord has a split” or the “release of a group.” I A Note from David MacLeod:The first respondent sent his the truth: We can have unity with- solution. We waited two years to also was struck by Dr. MacLeod’s letter by email.The remaining contributions were made in a out uniformity. The SAME Spirit discover that unity is not uniformi- question (and Karen’s comment conversation on the web by a group of Emmaus alumni. I was gave DIFFERENT ministries. ty. (Some might say we’re slow!) above) tying these “amicable delighted to hear from them all and am sorry that I couldn’t fit Before I understood this I We also let love lead us to continue church splits” to size. Shouldn’t we blamed the leadership. After I to care about the relationships we all their comments in. be seeking to plant new churches? understood this, I took responsibili- left. Through seeking to understand Why should we wait until we reach Alan Malchuk responds: ty. Before this I was frustrated with- their hurts, the Lord brought us some critical mass? If we have gift- in myself; after this breakthrough, into freedom from hurts. Whoever said “ignorance is bliss,” wasn’t trying to understand ed leaders who are stirred by the my frustration disappeared. I was their frustration. Frustration can feel like jail, and forceful Spirit, shouldn’t we be actively released from the false belief. I was change like a jail break. Enduring it, however, seems like Karen Carder responds: training them and equipping them able to leave that assembly and serving a sentence. For me, it was a two year process of com- If a group of people leave because to get out there and reproduce their target audience without judg- ing to find the key that set me free from the frustration. their assembly is becoming too themselves? I just read an interest- ing them for their emphases. We I loved the men I served with in our assembly, yet dis- large, or because they have to drive ing (and somewhat related) thing began a new work following this agreed with their emphases in ministry. It felt like Dr. a long distance to get there, or if today: research shows that the call of God on our lives with three Doolittle’s Push-Me-Pull-Me in our elders meetings, with they want to do some things differ- longer a church is in existence, the couples who shared that vision. some elders pulling one direction and the others another ently (and have the blessing of the more inward its focus becomes, the It is all a process. Making direction. I (and some others) had a passion and burden for elders) I would say it’s a good thing. less effective it becomes with changes, even to leave, can be certain people, but the current approach to ministry missed And I would call the new work an reaching out to and connecting misunderstood or hurt people. We them. Our approach was at odd angles to the population assembly plant and not a split. I’ve with outsiders. Why are so many sought to leave in peace and with- they were concerned about. We struggled to find ways to seen that happen many times and churches “planning” to plant out recruiting people. Even so, we talk it through, so the strain of the opposing purposes and it is a great thing, and both groups churches, and so few of them actu- found several years later there were approaches festered. fellowship with each other during ally doing it? Are they waiting things to talk through with the During those two years an elder (and dear friend) and I the year. On the other hand, if instead for an “amicable split?” assembly we left. We sought to let met for times of focused prayer and study. Then within one week I had an unexpected answer. Reading in 1 Corinthians

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Karen Carder responds: the best or not — it seems a bit would become impersonal. It connotation. Church splits usually doing so in order to communicate Karen Carder responds: I don’t see a problem with doing soon, but there is such a commit- would be difficult to keep every- imply some sort of doctrinal and/or to that community more effective- Just a few verses about who a church plant if you have gifted ment to church planting that it is one accountable and using their personal conflict; church plants ly. Second, there are 14 assemblies “the church” is: Acts 2:41-42; 1 leaders, but where do you find such already being considered. New gifts. We are slowly nearing that usually imply the desire to reach in St. Louis and hundreds of other Corinthians 1:2; Acts 15:22; people? Other churches? Bible col- churches have a huge impact — number already! I’m glad that they more effectively in a new area — churches and still we are not doing 20:28; 1 Corinthians 1:10. These leges? Seminaries? I am not sure, not only on their own population, have this vision and look forward thus a more amicable endeavor. a good enough job bringing the are just a few texts, but it is pretty but I think the leaders of the new but also to the other churches to that time of change, whenever Occasionally, you will have “agree- gospel to the unchurched of our clear that the church is made up of church plant would need some around them. It gives them a huge it may be. to-disagree” situations which end city. Eight out of 10 new church believers. This doesn’t mean that accountability to a group of people boost and they kind of catch the up being an odd mix of split and plants end up failing (in the sense an unbeliever can’t be invited to in another church — people they vision as well. Michelle Bowen responds: plant. The good news is that God that they do not have growth and our meetings with the hope that can lean on in difficult times. In As far as church plants go, why do is above our own paradoxes and long term existence), but if they he may be saved. Nevertheless, the the case of an assembly that is sta- Roni Squire we need more churches? Isn’t it imperfections! In the end, God are done right, even the eight that purpose of “the church” is clearly ble, it would be destabilizing if half Our local, growing, and thriving the responsibility of the believer makes beauty from ashes. fail are likely to bring the gospel to for the building up of the believ- the group left leaving inadequate church is a beautiful plant, from a as an individual to reach out to people who wouldn’t have heard it ers, and it is a place for the believ- leadership in the original assembly. large church, 20 miles away. Three unbelievers and share the gospel Steve Mizel responds: otherwise. Third, intentional ers to worship. The command, A few years ago a disgruntled group elders and their families came with with them? We can bring the Michelle Bowen writes, “The local church planting keeps the planting “Go ye into all the world and (about 16 people) left our assembly, the new group. The two local unbelivers to church, but isn’t the church meeting itself is [only] for church healthy in its focus, less preach the gospel and make disci- and they soon started bickering churches continue to fellowship church meeting itself for believers? believers.” I hear that a lot on this likely to become inward focused ples” implies that we are to go out amongst themselves, and they ended together in various ways. But, I do I understand a church plant in an site, but you’ll have to show me (which is what causes “splits”) and into the world. I appreciated your up splitting in different directions think there is a big difference area lacking in churches, but a from scripture that church meet- expectant of the Spirit’s active and thoughts and questions Michelle; to other churches in the area. They between a plant and a split. place like St. Louis? I can name 14 ings are only for believers. She miraculous work in and through we also have solid Bible churches left because they were disgruntled assemblies off the top of my head, also asks, “Why new churches?” them. I will throw this out as well on every corner here, but if we and unhappy, and they ended up Laura Harrington plus many other churches that are First, new churches are needed — usually the difference between grew too big for our building and taking the same traits with them Yes, it is very possible to have an Bible believing, preaching, teach- because not every church can a split and a plant is that the first were stable with our leadership, and it divided them. So we are tak- amicable split. Our church is a ing, and outreaching bodies. Is a communicate effectively with is the result of a lack of vision and we would plant another assembly ing time to build up leadership in product of such a split; we prefer church plant ever really necessary every group of people. A church leadership and the second the here. our assembly with the goal of divid- the term “hive off.” There can be when there are so many bodies plant can target the context and result of it. ing amicably. Discipleship and the other reasons to hive off besides meeting in one general area? I culture of a local community much development of stable leaders takes getting too big. Our church is guess a spin off question would be: better if it is intentional about time. currently preparing to plant a Is it better to have many church church because the new area of meetings in an area or would it be Ian Denham responds: town is lacking outreach. A man better to have only one? I agree with you Karen that there approached the elders, received is only so much a stable church can their blessing, and men are being Jeff Hage responds: do to support a church plant both trained to plant. It is not only I do not think Dr. MacLeod’s ques- NEXT ISSUE’S QUESTION: financially and in leadership. I have good for the new church, but also tion is in reference to plants or seen some of these church plants good for us. We are taking this hive offs but to splits, where there What is the cause of the current unrest over music in the assemblies and other evangelical that are going great, and the origi- time to study the New Testament is disagreement about some issue. churches? Are our differences of opinion simply a matter of generational tastes? Is there nal or parent church has continued church and looking to see how we Obviously new church plants are anything to the charge that much modern Christian music is puerile in its theology and lyrics? How is your local church handling the mega shift in musical tastes that has taken place in the to provide the support to keep can improve our local church amicable, but splits? How can past fifteen years? them strong. using biblical principles. church splits be kept from being bitter and hateful? Please send responses to Journey Magazine, Emmaus Bible College, 2570 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA Suzanne Alford responds: Amy Hickman responds: 52001, or e-mail to [email protected]. Include name, city, state, and daytime phone number. Our fledgling church of 40 people Our elders have committed (in Faith Haynes responds: Letters may be edited to yield brevity and clarity. (5 months old) had its first meeting their Philosophy of Ministry) to Semantically, the expression last Sunday for the purpose of “hive off” after our Body reaches “church splits” has a negative con- planting its own church. That around 400 people. They think notation while the expression blows me away. I’m not sure if it is that any church larger than 400 “church plants” have a positive

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Steve Witter Christian Assembly Prairie du Chien, WI Dec 16 Emmaus Warrenville Bible Chapel Warrenville, IL Jan 20, 27 On the Road CSA Annual Meeting Albuquerque, NM Jan 30 – Feb 2 Garfield Gospel Chapel Albuquerque, NM Feb 3 ABHE Annual Meeting Orlando, FL Feb 21 – 23 Name Location/Events City/State Dates Grand Haven Gospel Chapel Grand Haven, MI Feb 29

Ken Daughters Northgate Gospel Chapel Seattle, WA Jan 13 Laurel Bible Chapel San Diego, CA Jan 27 Mark Woodhouse Cedar Rapids Bible Chapel Cedar Rapids, IA Jan 6, 13, 20, 27 Bethany Bible Chapel Toms River, NJ Mar 1, 2

Ken Fleming Bayside Community Church Tampa, FL Jan 13 Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel Dubuque, IA Feb 4, 11, 18, 25 If you would like more information about having faculty speak at your assembly, retreat, conference or camp please call 1-800-397-BIBLE or e-mail [email protected].

Dave Glock Northern Hills Bible Chapel Cincinnati, OH Jan 25 – 27 Oak Lawn Bible Chapel Oak Lawn, IL Feb 3, 10 Park of the Palms Keystone Heights, FL Feb 16 – 22 The top three reasons to consider Emmaus Bible College…

1. Solid Academics In all of our programs, you’ll find God’s Word at the center. All students graduate with Jon Glock Horton Haven Christian Camp Chapel Hill, TN Jan 4 – 6 a degree in Biblical Studies, but can double major in other areas. A popular option is College Heights Chapel Murfreesboro, TN Jan 13 our one-year Certificate in Biblical Studies. Iowa Bible Camp Manson, IA Jan 18 – 20 Countryside Bible Chapel Stratford, IA Jan 25 – 27 AREAS OF STUDY 2. Student Life Guelph Bible Conference Center Guelph, ON Feb 1 – 3 Bible Exposition and Theology Great activities are a big part of college life and Emmaus offers many. Over 90% of Scottlea Youth Conference St. Catharines, ON Mar 1, 2 our students participate in Intramural sports and a third of our student body is involved Biblical Counseling (minor) in our music programs. Biblical Languages (minor) Biblical Studies (A.A. or certificate) John Jimo Lake Geneva Youth 3. Close Relationships Camp High Winter Weekend Lake Geneva, WI Feb 1 – 3 Business Administration (A.A.)† With a relatively small student body, students quickly develop meaningful Warrenville Bible Chapel Warrenville, IL Mar 2, 9 Computer Information Systems* friendships — not only with each other, but also with our caring faculty. Elementary Education* Come discover Emmaus for yourself at one of our Discover Emmaus Weekends. Intercultural Studies* Music Education* Dubuque, Iowa • 1-800-397-2425 x5 • www.emmaus.edu David MacLeod Northwest Bible Chapel Chicago, IL Jan 6, 13, 27 Music Ministry* Grace Bible Sanctuary Palm Bay, FL Jan 18 – 20 Nursing (A.A.S.)† Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel Dubuque, IA Mar 2 TESOL—Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (minor or certificate) Youth Ministries* Dan Smith Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel Dubuque, IA Jan 13, 20, 27 Park of the Palms Keystone Heights, FL Feb 2-8 *Features a double major in Cedar Rapids Bible Chapel Cedar Rapids, IA Feb 17, 24 Biblical Studies

†Dual degree program with Biblical Studies through Northeast Iowa Community College

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News from Faculty Travels – to Leuven, we stopped for a brief Mark Stevenson visit with Canadian assembly mis- Emmaus This past September I attended the sionaries Hank and Beryl Gelling. annual doctoral colloquium at the The Gellings have been planting Evangelische Theologische assemblies in Flanders for over Keeping You Informed the college can benefit from Faculteit (ETF) in Leuven, Belgium 30 years. Emmaus Bible College has seen receiving this as well. We also where I am working on a Ph.D. in significant growth and change send out prayer cards every other Historical Theology. Studying at over the past decade. We have a month. We understand that ETF has been valuable on at least new building, new programs, reaf- importance of prayer, and value two levels. First, while the program the cooperative program in nursing: firmed previously held accredita- the prayers of the Lord’s people on is academically rigorous, it does not (pictured above) Joy Delzer tions, and gained regional accredi- behalf of the college. Of course, have a residency requirement. (Bolivia), Caolae Huggins (WI), tation with NCA. A growing from time to time, we send special Thus I am able to continue with my Luke McMillin (MN), Tina Myers concern is making sure that our letters or communications that we responsibilities at Emmaus while (WI), Anne Nichols (IL), Abbi constituency is adequately think will be beneficial to our doing research for the PhD. Stark (CO); (not pictured) Ashley informed and engaged in the min- friends and supporters. Second, through ETF I have the After a busy but fruitful week at the Warner (WA), Anna Nininger istries of Emmaus Bible College. Ben Mathew’s privilege of connecting with evan- A second way that we want to State Licensure gelical Christians and professors in colloquium I returned home and (KS), and Ashleigh Wilson (CA). stepped back into the classroom— Several of these students passed In 2004, Ken Daughters, President keep our friends informed is It is with joy we are able to Europe, including Brethren scholars this time as a teacher. One is their CNA exams earlier this of Emmaus, created a new depart- through face to face visits. announce the recent licensure of such as Dr. Willem Ouweneel reminded that teachers never cease semester and are currently working ment at the college. First called Emmaus representatives travel all Ben Mathew (EBC alum 1998) as (Netherlands) and Dr. Ulrich Bister being students and students, at hard to excel in their Human Constituency Relations, now over North America meeting with a licensed mental health counselor (Germany). My doctoral supervisor some level, ought to be teachers! Physiology and Anatomy classes. known as Advancement, this local churches and the leadership for the State of Iowa. Ben has is Dr. Donald Tinder, who is com- in those local churches to bring department is tasked with re-ener- been Director of Counseling mended from assemblies in — Mark R. Stevenson gizing our relationship with cur- them a current update on what Services for the past five years at California. rent constituents, and seeking to God is doing. While no two visits EBC, and has been a valuable help New Cooperative Programs are exactly the same, the goal is to to many students dealing with life expand our constituency as the One of the highlights of my trip was This fall we launched two new have a face to face dialogue about issues as they study at the college. Lord allows. to spend some time with former cooperative programs with Emmaus. People have the chance Ben is also the Director and facul- Emmaus professor Tom Marinello. Northeast Iowa Community to have their questions or con- ty member in the Biblical Emmaus seeks to keep the con- Tom is also in the program at ETF College (NICC) in Peosta, Iowa, cerns answered as well as being Counseling Minor program, and stituency informed through a vari- and is currently finishing his disser- just 15 minutes west of Dubuque. encouraged by hearing about the directs the Spiritual Formation ety of printed materials. Journey tation on the history of the assem- These programs provide students Magazine comes out three times a Lord’s blessings…and how He is program for the freshmen students. blies in Flanders, the Dutch-speak- with a Bachelor of Science degree The Biblical Studies/Business year and is designed specifically to using graduates of our school to Ben is thankful for completion of ing part of Belgium. Tom serves as in Biblical Studies from Emmaus Administration program takes just encourage the health and growth impact the world for Christ. his state licensure, as it is a long a professor at Tyndale Theological and an associate degree in either four years to complete. We current- of the assemblies. Once each year, We want to come visit you! process with thousands of clinical Seminary in the Netherlands, Nursing or Business Administration ly have four students pursuing the we insert the Emmaus Today into Please contact Dr. Steve Witter if hours of counseling and state teaching students who come from from NICC. cooperative program in business: a Journey publication, and this you have more questions of if you exams after completing his around the world to study the would like to arrange such a visit. Master’s degree in Biblical (pictured above) Luke Mann (MO), insert is designed as a sort of annu- Scriptures. Tom and Patti were The Biblical Studies/Nursing pro- He can be reached by email at Counseling from Dallas Craig Raymond (IL); (not pictured) al report, catching people up on commended in 2000 from Garland, gram takes 4 - 5 years to complete. [email protected] or by phone Theological Seminary. Ben sees Austin Gardner (IA), and Jared the latest information about the Texas to the work in Europe. It is approved by the State of Iowa at 563-588-8000, extension 1124. this professional status as a means Wilson (IA). Most of these young college. The Emmaus Experience and prepares students to take the We can come during the week, or of further help for students in real men will begin taking classes at is published four times each year. After spending a day with the licensure exam to become a over a weekend...all that we need and practical ways, and ensuring NICC this spring. This piece is primarily designed for Marinellos in their home, Tom and Registered Nurse (RN). We cur- is an invitation. We look forward the quality of programs and assis- our alumni, but other friends of I set off for Belgium. On our way rently have nine students pursuing to seeing you soon. tance within the college.

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Alumni Receptions September 8, Spiritual The Alumni Association has 2007 at Forge Emphasis Week recently enjoyed several successful Road Bible Dr. Dave Reid, alumni receptions across the Chapel, Perry former faculty United States. Each evening Hall, member of included a presentation about Maryland Emmaus Bible what’s new at Emmaus, refresh- (Baltimore) College, spoke to the current ments, and great fellowship as we Emmaus students during Spiritual reminisced about our time at Emphasis Week, November 5 – 8, Emmaus. Representatives from the 2007. His topic was “Guidelines College included: Steve Witter, for Making Right Decisions.” Justin Smith, Jack Fish, Dan and Martha Smith, and Becky (Flint) Kraus. Call or e-mail Justin Smith in the Alumni Office at September 15, 2007 at Hilltop Emmaus if you are interested in Chapel, Etobicoke, Ontario having a reception in your area! (Toronto) (800-397-2425 option 6, or alum- [email protected]).

October 6, 2007 at Lombard Gospel Chapel, Lombard, Illinois (Chicago) April 20, 2007 at North Lynnwood Bible Chapel, Lynnwood, Washington (Seattle)

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60 Journey: Winter 2007