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Journey | From the President Remembering Bill MacDonald
One of the most On the other hand, I believe Bill’s greatest legacy is the beloved presidents of group of men scattered throughout the country and around Emmaus Bible College the world that he touched personally as a mentor. Bill had went home to be with a way about him that even though he spoke casually, his the Lord this past advice had such a gravitas it was as if you could sense the Christmas Day at the Holy Spirit’s leading. He was that way his whole life. Many age of 90. Bill an Emmaus student could relate to you memories of Bill MacDonald served sitting on the edge of a bed in a dorm room exhorting a on the faculty from student to read a certain book and apply its teachings to 1947—1965, and his life. Many a disciple from the intern training program as president from could relate to you how serving along side Bill helped him 1959—1965. He give his life to service of Christ. was instrumental Bill lived his life as a single man, and as the apostle Paul in opening the counseled, used the extra time to serve others. Even in his extension on waning years he kept up an active correspondence ministry Chicago's with the men he was discipling. In one sense you could say South Side, and he didn’t have a family. In a more important sense you the consolidation of both campuses in could say he had more of a family than most of us do. He Oak Park, Illinois. Though he held an MBA from Harvard has left many a “son” on earth carrying on the work of and worked briefly as an investment analyst, he left that Christ as Bill taught them to do with complete selflessness. world to teach the Bible and make disciples of the Lord He is sorely missed. Jesus. He believed the best place for a college degree is at the foot of the cross. Though he published 84 books, one May we the faculty of Emmaus Bible College of his seminal works characterized his life. The simple little follow Bill as he followed Christ. book, True Discipleship, explained both Christ’s require- ments of us and Bill’s calling in life. I read that book before I met him, and though I agreed with his interpretation of Christ’s teaching, his applications seemed almost unachievable. Perhaps the seeming hyperbole was preach- er’s license. Then I met Bill. He was one of the most con- gruent men I have ever known. He lived what he believed. He proved to us that Christ’s teaching on discipleship Kenneth Alan Daughters could actually be lived. President, Emmaus Bible College At Emmaus Bill is fondly remembered for authoring more correspondence courses than anyone else. Much of his teaching found its way into digests of scriptural interpreta- tion and eventually into his thorough commentary. His style was folksy, yet deep and insightful. He never lacked application, and always included devotional thoughts. I keep his commentary close to my desk and refer to it often. It has been translated into so many foreign languages that people all over the world are doing the same. For many people, his commentary will be his legacy. 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:30 PM Page 4
Journey | magazine Features/Departments
Fundamental, Important, and Non-essential Issues Journey Magazine, volume 6, issue 1, Spring 2008 8 A Suggested Method for Resolving Differences in the Assembly Journey Magazine is published by Emmaus Bible William MacDonald College, Dubuque, Iowa, USA.
“In fundamentals, unity. In non-essential matters, liberty. In all things, love.” Follow this clear, Opinions expressed in articles published in Journey Magazine are not necessarily those of Emmaus concise article on doctrines which are non-negotiable, those that are not fundamental but require Bible College. obedience, and those in which liberty can be exercised without resulting in strife or division. Editor: David A. Glock Assistant Editors: Ken Daughters, Ken Murray Caring for the World Bible Editor: Dr. David J. MacLeod 14 Dave Glock Circulation Manager: Angie Hubbard Design, Lay-Out: Jesse Lange & Big Behr Design Co. Our editor discusses the theme of this issue of Journey. Online-Journey: Jesse Lange Caring for Ireland How to contact us: Journey Magazine 15 Jim VanDine Emmaus Bible College Emmaus professor Dr. Jim Van Dine tells of the Lord’s work in southern Ireland. 2570 Asbury Road Dubuque, IA 52001 Caring Across Cultures (800) 397-2425 www.emmaus.edu 18 Ken Fleming Editor: [email protected] Ken Fleming discusses the three steps of caring in today’s culture: becoming aware, becoming Subscriptions: [email protected] concerned, and becoming active. College Admissions: [email protected] Alumni: [email protected] Correspondence School: [email protected] An “Average Joe” Believer Believers Stewardship Services: 21 Frank Stephen www.believerstewardship.org Other: [email protected] One man’s journey in learning to care for others, as God changed his heart and motivation. Journey Magazine is available online at: www.emmaus.edu/journey White for Harvest Journey Magazine will consider, but is not responsible 24 Joel Hernandez for, unsolicited articles. Send submissions to Editor at “Spiritual harvesting is of critical importance, it is God’s will and work, it is critically important, the address above. Submissions cannot be returned unless accompanied by SASE. Advanced query is rec- urgent, and it requires collaboration.” This article by Emmaus professor Joel Hernandez will ommended. instruct and encourage your involvement in the harvest. Fifty Ways that You can Care for the World 30 A collection of practical and challenging suggestions for all believers. Add these to your own ideas and get to work!
Patient and Kind 32 Alex Strauch This article is an excerpt from Strauch’s book, A Christian Leader’s Guide to Leading Corrections: with Love. Perhaps it will serve as a motivator to you in your ministry of care. The Winter 2007 issue should have Travel Guides ...... 2 been listed as Volume 5, Issue 3. To The Praise of His Glory ...... 4 Dr. MacLeod Asks ...... 40 A Word Along the Way ...... 44 On The Road ...... 48 News from Emmaus ...... 50 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:30 PM Page 5
Journey | Travel Guides TravelGuides A Chance to Die:The Life and Legacy of Amy Carmichael Elisabeth Elliot Revell, 2005 For the first time in paperback comes the definitive biography of “Amma,” India’s most loved missionary—a telling model of service to God for a new generation.
Legacy of William Carey Vishai and Ruth Mangalwadi Crossway Books William Carey did more for the regeneration of South Asia in the 19th and 20th centuries than any individual before or since.The Legacy of William Carey will help readers not only understand the impact he made, but is a charge to all Christians to respond in kind within their own cultures. In following Carey’s example of taking the gospel into all of society, not only will hearts be changed and entire cultures transformed for Christ, but lives will be bettered.
The Mission of God: Unlocking the Bible’s Grand Narrative Christopher Wright Intervarsity Press, 2006 Most Christians would agree that the Bible provides a basis for mission, but Christopher Wright boldly maintains that mission is bigger than that—there is in fact a missional basis for the Bible.The entire Bible is generated by and is all about God’s mission. He provides a missional hermeneutic in response to this claim.
Living Faith:Willing to be Stirred as a Pot of Paint Helen Roseveare Christian Focus Publications, 2007 “The quiet, consistent lives of Christian students drew me…They talked of faith as a reality, not a blind leap-in-the-dark. Faith as a gift from God to grasp and comprehend truth.” Thus starts Helen’s search for spiritual understanding around her in a world that she was to have a significant influence on once her new faith led her to Africa. Be strengthened by these stories of faith!
By Searching: My Journey Through Doubt Into Faith Isobel Kuhn Moody, 1959 Isobel Miller gave up God for worldly pursuits. But as graduation approached and her engagement was broken, she questioned that decision. God heard her prayers and reached out to her. She dedicated her life to missionary service in China.
Through Gates of Splendor Elisabeth Elliot Tyndale House, 1986 After several preliminary overtures of friendship, five young missionary men set out on a crucial January day in 1956 for a meeting with the Auca tribesmen who had reacted with apparent tolerance to earlier gifts and messages.This is the poignant story of their martyrdom told by the widow of one of the slain members of the group.
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Journey | magazine From Jerusalem to Irian Jaya: A Biographical History of Christian Missions Ruth Tucker Zondervan, 2004 A long-awaited revised edition of a highly acclaimed textbook on the history of Christian missions by one of the most respected missiologists of our day. What in the World Is God Doing?:The Essentials of Global Missions C. Gordon Olson Global Gospel, 2003 Veteran missionary and missiologist C. Gordon Olson has distilled his knowledge and experience to produce an introductory text to missions that is marked by its balance between theory and practice. Father of Faith Missions:The Life and Times of Anthony Norris Groves (1795 – 1853) Robert Bernard Dann Authentic Media, 1969 Modest and unobtrusive Anthony Norris Groves did not consider himself a gifted evangelist. His name is not usually mentioned alongside William Carey and Hudson Taylor but Groves had a pioneering influence that went beyond his personal reach. He and his family followed God’s call to Baghdad and India leaving their comfortable English lives behind.Though he doubted his success as a missionary, Groves’ character and, ideas shaped the people who followed him as he followed Christ. Drawing upon Groves’ own journals and letters, in addition to copious scholarship, the book is both a journey into history and a reminder that God’s faithfulness is as true now as it was then. He Gave Us a Valley Helen Roseveare Christian Focus Publications, 2006 After twelve years of missionary work in the northeast province of what was the Belgian Congo, building up a simple medical service, civil war erupted with horrific effects. During the war, Helen was brutally beaten and raped and left with no choice but to return to Britain (this story is told in Give Me This Mountain). She quickly returned to the Congo in 1966 to assist in the rebuilding of the nation. She helped establish a new medical school and hospital (for the other hospitals she built were destroyed) and served there until 1973. In the eight years following the war, despite endless frustrations, again and again God showed His unfailing guidance and unstinted provision for her needs.This book is the story of the joys and adventures of reestablishing the medical work, the church building program and the work of forgiveness, necessary after the destruction of the civil war. Angola Beloved T. Ernest Wilson Gospel Folio Press, 1998 AFRICA, land of mystery, cruelty, fear, darkness, sounds and smells. In the heart of this fascinating continent lies the little-known but much-in-the-news country of Angola. Read of Angola’s history, culture and customs, withcraft, and folklore as well as T. Ernest Wilson’s experience with learning a new language, starting indigenous churches, the gospel in the diamond mines, incredible journeys on foot, harships and joys, frustrations and fruitfulness in the pioneer missions field.This autobiography is told with humor, warmth, and insight from forty year’s experience.
To order contact John Rush at the Emmaus Bible College Library ([email protected] or 563-588-8000 ext. 1003)
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Journey | To the Praise of His Glory
To the Praise of His Glory #5 Lisa Beatty Caring for Others through Music
In March of each year, members of the people in the churches we visited ious. I had my back to the congrega- Emmaus Ensemble pack up their gear across the country. tion, so I was not able to see what the and take to the road to minister in A few years ago, the Ensemble students were seeing. When the local assemblies across the United traveled to a little town west of singers were seated during the mes- States. I had the privilege of directing Dubuque for a Sunday morning con- sage, I asked the ones near me why the Ensemble for fifteen years, and was cert. The church was full to the back. everyone had looked so concerned. continually amazed by the ways music We began the concert; and as we sang, They said that during the first song, could minister to the needs of God’s my students began looking rather anx- most of the congregation began cry-
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“Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God” 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:30 PM Page 9
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ing, and continued to cry throughout highlight the use of music for evangel- here affirms music ministry as an the concert. At the end of the service, ism in this passage. The men gave testi- effective method of caring for other the first person I spoke to was a mony to their God, and the other pris- believers. woman with tears streaming down her oners took notice. There is, however, God calls us to minister to others face. She said her 15-year-old son had another plausible explanation for their through music just as He ministers to us been killed in a car accident on the singing—to encourage each other in through this medium. In Psalm 32:7, previous Monday night; his funeral the face of a truly frightening ordeal. David references God’s gift of song in had been on Thursday. This grieving Singing songs of praise to God that times of trouble: “You are my hiding mother told me that every song we called to memory His character and place; You preserve me from trouble; sang had ministered to her and brought works likely provided encouragement You surround me with songs of deliver- her comfort. It was as if we had known and peace, even in a jail cell! Music ance.” God encouraged David through exactly what she needed to hear at can be a great encouragement and song. In Psalm 42:8, the psalmist says: that moment! I told her that while I comfort to those in the midst of diffi- “The LORD will command His lov- had chosen the music almost nine cult circumstances. ingkindness in the daytime; and His months before, the Holy Spirit knew song will be with me in the night, a her needs even then and prepared us prayer to the God of my life.” This is to minister to those needs by divine The Bible provides one of several references to “songs in appointment. This experience affirmed the night” (Job 35:10; Psalm 77:6). to me (and to my students) that music numerous examples Many of us have had the experience of can be used of God to minister to the late-night wakefulness and worry. Often hurting. of music used to in these circumstances, the Lord will The Bible provides numerous bring to our minds the words of a famil- examples of music used to care for the care for the needs iar song to comfort and encourage us. needs of others. David’s musical ability of others. I’m so thankful for His caring ministry had a soothing effect on King Saul’s of music in my life! agitated spirit: “Whenever the evil spir- A beautiful picture of God’s care it from God came to Saul, David would In Ephesians 5:18-19, Paul empha- for us through music can be found in take the harp and play it with his hand; sizes the “one another” ministry of Zephaniah 3:17: “The LORD your God and Saul would be refreshed and be music in the lives of believers: “And do is in your midst, a victorious warrior. well, and the evil spirit would depart not get drunk with wine, for that is dis- He will exult over you with joy, He will from him” (1 Samuel 16: 23). David sipation, but be filled with the Spirit, be quiet in His love, He will rejoice used his musical ability to minister to speaking to one another in psalms and over you with shouts of joy.” The Saul and bring peace and comfort. hymns and spiritual songs, singing and NKJV renders the final phrase of the Acts 16 finds Paul and Silas making melody with your heart to the verse, “He will rejoice over you with wrongly accused, badly beaten, and Lord.” In the parallel passage in singing.” What a beautiful picture of incarcerated in a Philippian jail. We get Colossians 3, Paul again highlights the our loving Father as He takes joy in His a glimpse into their inner cell in the “one another” quality of music ministry people’s deliverance! prison: “But about midnight Paul and between brothers and sisters in Christ: In March 2003, my grandfather Silas were praying and singing hymns of “Let the word of Christ richly dwell was nearing death. His journey over the praise to God, and the prisoners were within you, with all wisdom teaching last several years had been a slow and listening to them” (v. 25). Commen- and admonishing one another with gradual descent into increasing depend- tators often view the missionary team’s psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, ence on others and then skilled nursing singing as a demonstration of their singing with thankfulness in your hearts care. One Saturday morning, I woke steadfast faith; Paul and Silas praised to God” (v. 16). We are called to use with the strong sense that I should go God in the midst of very difficult cir- music with discernment to teach and visit him. He was failing rather quickly cumstances. Some commentators also admonish (or “counsel”) others. Paul at this point and was unable to speak or
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respond much to his surroundings. I plus years since he had come to know drove the 70 miles praying that I would the Lord. He smiled, mouthed the get there in time to spend some mean- words, and said “Amen” to his ingful moments with him. When I favorites. Music had the power to com- arrived he did not seem to be aware fort him and bring him peace and joy that I was there. I left my mom sitting just one day prior to his death. beside him and went to the lobby of This power to encourage and care Lisa Beatty the nursing home to retrieve an old for others through music is available to Lisa Beatty is the Vice President for Academic Affairs at Emmaus Bible College and has been a hymnal from the music rack of the all who believe. Let us purpose to use faculty member in the Music Ministry department piano. On my return, I sat next to his music for comfort, encouragement, and since 1992. Lisa and her husband, Kevin have bed and sang hymns to him for about counsel in the lives of those around us two teenage daughters. an hour and a half. Whereas he had as we have been called by God to do. ✟ not been responsive to speech, he immediately responded to the hymns he had known and loved for the sixty-
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William MacDonald Fundamental, Important, and Non-essential Issues A Suggested Method for Resolving Differences in the Assembly 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:31 PM Page 12
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here are certain doctrines of the Christian faith which are absolutely fundamental. They are of first importance. As far as they are concerned, there can be no difference of opinion. Believers must T be united on these great truths. There are other matters that are not fundamental but are nevertheless important because they are the subject of biblical teaching and call for obedience. There are still other subjects that are non-essential. They are neither right nor wrong. The Lord allows liberty for each one to be fully persuaded in his own mind.
What are the fundamentals? When we speak of the fundamentals, we are referring to the following:
The inspiration of the Scriptures. The Bible is the Word of God. The Trinity. There is one God, existing eternally in three Persons. It necessarily follows from this that Jesus Christ is God. The incarnation. Jesus is also perfect Man. Christ’s substitutionary death at Calvary. He died on behalf of sinners. His burial, resurrection, and ascension to heaven. He was buried, rose again on the third day in a glorified body, and ascended to the right hand of God the Father. The gospel. Salvation is by grace, through faith, and apart from works. The Second Advent. Christ is coming again. Though not all agree on the details of His return, the fact itself is a basic tenet of the faith. The eternal blessedness of the saved. The eternal punishment of the lost. 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:31 PM Page 13
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Now these doctrines are not nego- the gifts of the Spirit, and the topics faith alone. Because it is contrary to a tiable. We are to earnestly contend for covered by the five points of fundamental of the faith, it precludes them. They are clearly taught in the Calvinism. the fellowship of Bible-believing Scriptures. The evangelical church has The problem is that Christians Christians. held them down through the centuries. hold differing views on these matters. Conflicting views have been labeled While there is only one right interpre- Divorce and Remarriage heresies. Believers have been willing to tation, believers do not agree as to Some say, “No divorce—PERIOD.” die for these precious truths. We can- what that interpretation is. Great and Some say, “Divorce but no remarriage.” not have fellowship with those who godly believers do not see eye to eye. Others say, “Divorce for unfaithfulness deny the fundamentals. Let us look at some of these issues on but no remarriage.” Still others say, which the Bible gives instruction and “Divorce for unfaithfulness with free- Important even though which are important, even though they dom for the innocent party to remarry.” not fundamental have never been regarded as funda- Some even say, “Divorce for desertion.” mentals of the faith. There is no end to the different views, There is a second class of subjects and it’s doubtful that there will ever be which, while not fundamental, are Baptism unanimity on this subject as long as we nonetheless important. Jesus implied In the Christian church there is con- are here on earth. such a distinction when He said to the siderable disagreement as to the mode Sooner or later, every local assem- Pharisees, “...you pay tithe of mint and and meaning of baptism. Some prac- bly must adopt a position on the sub- anise and cumin, and have neglected tice baptism by immersion, some by ject in the fear of God, and adhere to While there is only one right interpretation, believ the weightier matters of the law: jus- immersing three times, and some by that position. Individuals may hold tice and mercy and faith...” (Matt. sprinkling. Some see baptism as signify- other interpretations, but they must 23:23). In other words, some parts of ing identification with Christ in His not press their views publicly or pri- the law are “weightier” than others. death, burial, and resurrection. Others vately so as to cause division. But Jesus also reminded them that see sprinkling as a picture of the It should be added that even after even the less weighty matters of descent of the Spirit. an assembly adopts a position, the eld- the law require obedience... “these you You can be a true believer and ers will still have to consider each case ought to have done, without leaving hold any of those views, and this individually. Such complex situations the others undone.” should not be a bar to fellowship. But arise today in the marriage relationship So, in the New Testament, there once an assembly has adopted a posi- that no stated policy will cover every are matters which are not fundamental tion on the subject, then no one case. but which require obedience. These should cause trouble by pushing alter- are matters on which the Bible speaks. nate views. The outline of prophecy Some of them are described as com- It is a different matter when a per- Some believers are premillennial, mandments of the Lord (1 Cor. 14:37). son believes in baptismal regeneration, others are postmillenial, and still We must not call them non-essentials that is, that a person must be baptized others are amillennial. Even among or treat them as such. in order to be saved. Or that by baptiz- premillennialists, there are four major These subjects include baptism, ing an infant, you make him a member views: pre-tribulation rapture, mid- divorce and remarriage, the outline of Christ and an inheritor of the king- tribulation rapture, pre-wrath rapture, of prophecy, the eternal security of the dom of God. This is a false gospel, a and post-tribulation rapture. There are believer, women’s head covering, denial of the truth that salvation is by problems connected with every posi- women’s public ministry in the church, tion. A person can hold any of these
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views and still be a good Christian. Women’s head covering Therefore, an assembly must decide It is proper that everyone knows On the one side are those who hold what the Bible really teaches on this what he believes and rejoices in it. But that Paul’s instructions concerning score. The elders have both a right and it is also proper that we remember head coverings were just for the culture a responsibility to deal firmly with any there are godly, sincere believers who in which he lived. Others insist that who insist on teaching views that con- hold other views. These honest differ- they are the commandments of the flict and threaten the peace of the ences should not prevent us from Lord, that Paul bases them on the order assembly. breaking bread together. On the other and purpose of creation, and that they hand, those who hold alternate views are “because of the angels,” therefore, Five-point Calvinism should respect the prophetic stance of for all time and not just for the culture A five-point Calvinist believes in an assembly, and not push their views, of Paul’s day. Questions arise whether man’s total depravity, God’s uncondi- thereby causing dissension. When the head covering is just for meetings of tional election, limited atonement (i.e. someone insists that everyone must the church (and, if so, what is a meet- only for the elect), irresistible grace, agree with his minority view, there is ing of the church?), what constitutes a and the perseverance of the saints. bound to be trouble. proper covering? etc. Accurate definition of these terms is If the elders of an assembly don’t essential before an intelligent judg- Eternal security adopt a policy on the subject, there is ment can be formed. Many Christians believe that when bound to be confusion. They owe it to Many believers accept only the a person has been truly born again, the saints to state clearly what they fifth, although they would prefer to call he will never lose his salvation. They believe the Scriptures teach. it the perseverance of Christ. Those lievers do not agree as to what that interpretation is.
believe that to deny the eternal securi- Women’s ministry who disagree with the others insist that ty of the believer questions the suffi- Christ’s atonement was for all in its When may a woman sing or speak in ciency of the work of Christ and mixes sufficiency and availability. They also a meeting of the church? The answers faith and works. point out that Calvinism rules out given today are too numerous to list. There are other people who love man’s free will whereas Christ con- With a sincere desire to obey the the Lord and yet they sincerely believe stantly appealed to man’s will in the Scriptures as closely as possible, elders that Christians can forfeit their salva- matter of salvation. should adopt a clear, united position. tion through sin. To refuse fellowship Spiritually minded, soul-winning These prayerful conclusions become with these saints means that you would Christians are found on both sides of the policy of the assembly. not break bread with John Wesley and this issue. The fireworks begin when men of that spiritual stature. The sign gifts someone insists on pushing his own Again we say to each assembly, Another issue that holds the potential view when it is not welcome, or when “Know what you believe and why you for trouble is the charismatic question. he harps on one subject as if it were believe it.” Adopt that as the official Tongues, healing, and prophesying the only doctrine in the Bible. When stance of the assembly, and say to seem to be the gifts around which most silenced, he leaves the assembly and those who believe differently, “You can controversy has swirled. The differing influences others to leave with him. hold a different view, but don’t teach viewpoints, even among charismatics The path of wisdom is to enjoy it in public or in private. If you would themselves, are legion. privately one’s convictions on the like to discuss it, please speak to the We can and must love Christians subject, but not to force them as if they elders.” who disagree with us, but we must represented the whole truth. not allow the issue to cause division. On all these subjects that are
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important though not fundamental, and the use of musical instruments in an assembly to adopt its own policy. an assembly, under its leaders, should church services, No major creed has ever considered adopt a clearly stated position. This instrumental accompaniment as a should be done after careful study and Voting and military service. fundamental of the faith. We could research, after much prayer, and with In these issues, each person must paraphrase Paul’s words without doing a sincere desire to adhere as closely go before the Lord and seek His will for violence to them, “For in Christ Jesus as possible to the Scriptures. If an himself or herself. Each one should be neither does an organ avail anything assembly adopts a position that is not fully persuaded in his own mind. Once nor the absence of an organ, but a Scriptural, it is conceivable that some that is done, he should obey his guid- new creation” (see Gal. 6:15). believers will want to withdraw. If so, ance and allow others to do the same. they should do so graciously, and with- Times of meetings Wine vs. grape juice out seeking to draw others away with Clearly the Lord has left this decision them. at the Lord’s Supper to the local assembly or its leaders. Since each assembly is auton- Let’s face it! There are valid arguments Sometimes changes must be made, omous, that is, responsible to the Lord on both sides. There is no question depending on local circumstances. The alone, no other church or outside indi- that when the Lord instituted the best time for reaching the unsaved in vidual can dictate policy with regard to Supper, He used fermented wine and one locality may not be the best time these important doctrines. unleavened bread (grape juice did not in another. Traditional times are not We should have a spirit of love come until Pasteur developed pasteur- sacred. We must be ready to make toward those who disagree with us on ization). But wine stumbles people changes when they are indicated. these important matters. It is possible who have a problem with alcohol, Thou vs. You to be a Christian and be poorly taught. and we should never do anything that Many older Christians prefer to address And we should always remember that stumbles others (1 Cor. 8:13). Also, God as Thee and Thou out of a sense if we could see ourselves in the light of there are many places in the world of reverence. Younger believers prefer God’s perfection, we would realize that where wine is not available. After all, to use You out of a sense of intimacy wisdom will not die with us. We should it is not the bread and wine that are but without any lack of reverence. It is walk humbly before the Lord. important. We must get beyond them to the Lord Himself. not a Biblical problem. In the original language of the New Testament, there Non-essential issues One cup vs. individual cups is no distinction between a formal In addition to the above subjects, there Again, there are two sides of the mat- “you” and a familiar one. But when the are some that can be clearly labeled as ter. On the one hand, one cup symbol- King James Version was published, non-essential. When it comes to these izes the unity of the body of Christ. people addressed one another as thou matters, there should always be liberty But as an assembly grows it is not (singular) and ye (plural). Thus, Jesus to disagree without causing strife or uncommon to use two, three, or even is quoted in the King James Version as division. Here the second line of the four cups. If four are valid, why not 40? saying to Judas, “Betrayest thou the formula applies: The argument for individual cups rests Son of Man with a kiss?” It was cer- largely on the danger of spreading dis- tainly not the language of reverence. In fundamentals, unity. ease through the common cup, since What it boils down to is this: any In non-essential matters, liberty. wine does not have sufficient alcoholic assembly should be big enough to allow In all things, love. content to kill germs. In any event, for both usages without creating a this is not a matter of fundamental threatening atmosphere or driving peo- Among the non-essential issues importance. Rather it provides an ple away. are some on which the New Testament opportunity to show love and consider- doesn’t legislate specifically but which ation to those who disagree with us. Bible versions some people feel embody important Considerable heat has been generated principles: voting and military service; over this issue as a result of the prolif- wine vs. grape juice at the Lord’s Use of musical instruments eration of versions in recent years. Supper; one cup vs. individual cups; Here again there must be liberty for
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Some believers sincerely believe that between clean and unclean no longer these areas, but we must recognize that the truth of God is at stake. Others holds (Mark 7:19 NASB). there are Christlike souls who do not point out that the differences among It should be clear that in these agree with us. Because of this, we the reputable versions are minor and passages Paul is dealing with matters should avoid excessive dogmatism. do not affect any of the doctrines of that are non-essential. He allows for Cromwell said, “I beseech you by the the faith. As much as we might love a difference of opinion among God’s tender mercies of Christ to conceive it any English version, we cannot insist people. Yet it is often over these incon- possible that you may be mistaken.” that it is the only right one, because sequential matters that serious splits When someone tried to nit-pick with then none of the foreign language occur. We must learn to distinguish Dr. Ironside on some non-essential versions would be right. between what is central and what is matter, he would say, “Well, brother, Individual Christians should peripheral. when we get to heaven, one of us is be allowed to have their favorite ver- going to be wrong — and perhaps it sion. When speaking publicly, a person will be me.” The fire invariably went should announce the name of the one out, because Dr. Ironside didn’t add from which he is reading if it is not the Where there is love fuel to it (see Prov. 26:20). one in common use. This is a simple and brokenness, prayer In all the topics we have discussed, courtesy. an assembly should adopt a definite and patience, humility stance or policy. Failure to do so results Foods, drinks, and in confusion. Believers generally want observance of days and forbearance, guidelines to follow. When the leader- These are other matters of moral differences can be settled ship adopts a position after much wait- indifference. They are actions that are ing on God, there is a sense in which neither right nor wrong in themselves. amicably. Believers their decision is ratified in heaven (cf. It is about these non-essential matter can disagree without Matt. 16:19; 18:18), provided it does that Paul writes: not violate any Scriptural precept or “Let every man be fully persuaded being disagreeable. principle. in his own mind” (Rom. 14:5b). He Leaving an assembly over a non- would not have said this about a fun- Conclusion essential matter is never the ideal. damental of the faith, but in matters of There can be fellowship without total Let us now summarize. moral indifference, there is liberty for agreement on these topics. Where Concerning the fundamentals, everyone to be fully convinced in his there is love and brokenness, prayer there must be unanimity in any own mind. and patience, humility and forbear- Christian assembly. “All things are lawful unto me” (1 ance, Concerning matters that are differences can be settled amica- Cor. 6:12; 10:23). This can only refer bly. Believers can disagree without to areas or activities not prohibited by Scripturally important, even though not fundamental, each assembly should being disagreeable. God’s Word. The only times when it is better “All things indeed are pure” adopt a position in the fear of God. Any contrary teaching, either public to leave is when a person is convinced (Rom. 14:20b). “Unto the pure all that in staying, he is being unfaithful or private, that would create strife or things are pure” (Tit. 1:15). This can- to the Lord or unable to remain with- division should not be allowed. If a not mean all thing absolutely, but all out disturbing the peace of the assem- person disagrees with the assembly things that are neither right nor wrong bly. Even then the third line of our position and feels he must leave out in themselves. timeless formula applies — in every- “I know, and am persuaded by of faithfulness to the Lord, he should thing, love. ✟ (Used by permission) the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing do so quietly and peaceably. unclean of itself” (Rom. 14:14a). Concerning the non-essential The subject is foods. Under the Old matters we have listed, there has to be Testament economy, certain foods were a certain amount of give and take for unclean. Under grace this distinction the sake of unity and peace (Eph. 4:1- 6). We may have strong convictions in
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Caring for the World Dave Glock, Editor But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd (Matthew 9:36).
In the previous issue of Journey, attention was given to the characteristics of a caring church — a church that cares for its own in providing for the spiritual, emotional, and material needs of its members. This issue of Journey will direct our consid- eration to caring outside of the local church — caring for the worldwide church, and caring for the vast numbers of sheep without a shepherd. In church life in North America, untold energies and resources are directed to providing a high level of excellence for church members — • facilities that are artistic and functional • professional ministry and counseling services • extensive musical programs and productions • hi-tech communication and presentations • professional child care and nursery staff • resource centers and food courts But at the same time interest in the worldwide church and evangelization of the lost is declining. In a time of almost embarrassing prosperity in the churches of North America, the numbers of the persecuted church continue to grow. With a growing world population, commitment to missions and outreach is not a focus of church life. The words of Jesus seem applicable:
You say, “I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,” — and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked (Revelation 3:17).
This issue of Journey touches many avenues of reaching the world with the gospel: • Evangelism in Ireland • Operation Mobilization Ship Evangelism • 50 Ways of Caring • Harvesting Souls
It is our desire that we may all refocus our vision of being self-centered in our church life and imitate the focus of the Savior, who, “when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd.”
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Caring Jim Van Dine for Ireland
orthern Ireland has had a strong evangelical, notably Assembly, presence in its modern history. The Republic of Ireland in the nsouth has been a far different story. Being one of the most Roman Catholic countries in the English-speaking world, its resistance to evangelical missions has been both pervasive and adamant. 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:31 PM Page 19
Emmaus student and TnT Team member Esther Andre shares the gospel in Dublin.
However, all of that is changing. tribution and witnessing. As well, the 3 days of the program take the form of Ireland has joined the European Union, teams are a great encouragement to the a team tour of the south and south- resulting in an economic boom and relatively small groups of believers in western parts of the country. extensive immigration. This, along their local meetings. (More information The unique feature of the with the abuse and other scandals that can be found at www.TnTTeams.org). TnT Teams mission is that it offers the have rocked the Catholic Church, has The 25-day program begins with a 4-5 participants a truly cross-cultural expe- opened up the south of Ireland to new day period of cross-cultural orientation rience—Ireland really is a different ideas. Unfortunately, those new ideas and evangelism training. Team mem- culture—while affording the opportu- include not just the gospel of grace but bers, ranging in age from “18 to 80,” nity to be involved in significant min- also materialism, secularism, and the are prepared for the ministry by local istry due to the absence of the lan- host of other “isms” and cults that so missionaries and Irish workers and eld- guage barrier so prevalent in most infect our globe. ers. Then teams of 8-9, with their own short-term situations (well, almost no My interest in the Lord’s work in minibus (van) team up with missionar- language barrier; one must deal with Ireland began in 1988 when my family ies and assemblies for 17 days of inten- colloquialisms and accents). While went to the Dublin area for six weeks sive service in places like Dublin, most conceive of missions as long-term to help spread the gospel through liter- Shankill, Bray, Kilkenny, Newcastle commitments involving extensive ature distribution and door-to-door West, Waterford, and Athlone. In preparation and significant amounts of visitation. Currently I am involved on addition, there is opportunity for those resources, short-term projects such as a yearly basis with TnT (Teach and gifted in teaching and speaking to TnT Teams are in fact quite biblical Testify) Teams, a short-term missions preach or teach seminars and other (even the apostle Paul’s ministry was ministry designed to provide assem- types of discipleship ministry. The largely short-term in one sense). Time blies and missionaries in the Irish benefits are immediate in terms of commitment is relatively short (just 25 Republic with strategic help in the Irish evangelism and long-term for the days) but benefits are far-reaching in areas of literature distribution, open- Irish church, for Irish believers and terms of what happens both in Ireland air evangelism, door-to-door Bible dis- TnT Teams members alike. The final and in the lives of the team members.
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Journey | magazine What can you do in caring for Ireland?
don’t have to stay home. While it may supporting missionaries overseas, review You can read. seem like a gigantic undertaking at first, what you are giving. If it is still what it So many people I meet say that they in many ways it will be less effort and was 10 years ago, last year, or even last have always wanted to go to Ireland. less cost than some vacations. And the month, consider increasing the This desire may come from their family rewards will be far greater. Think about amount. Most missionaries are extreme- background or it may be due to the it. You can go on your own and plug ly hesitant to discuss this with their mystique surrounding the “Land of into TnT Teams or you could organize supporters, even though it is often their Saints and Scholars.” For whatever rea- a group from your local church. Why most stressful challenge on “the field.” son, Ireland and the Irish have come to not go ahead and get your passport have a special place in the minds and now? Then you will be ready when Caring for Ireland through short-term hearts of many. When these kinds of God has removed that last barrier and missions presents challenges and “attractions” are evident I often ask the opened the door! requires focused commitment. people expressing them whether God However, it also offers the opportunity may have been preparing them for a You can give. to see immediate results in a people more direct involvement with this who share our own cultural heritage, country and its people. If you are read- Sometimes going ourselves is simply who have contributed so much to ing this article you have some kind of not possible. But for many who would Western civilization, but from whom so interest in Ireland. Why not expand go, finances loom as a sizeable obstacle. much has been withheld in terms of your understanding of Ireland’s history While this is really the easiest obstacle access to the freedom found only in the and its effect on western culture in gen- for God to remove, it usually seems like gospel of the grace of our Lord Jesus eral? If you are like most, you will find the greatest one to us. Ask the Lord to Christ. ✟ direct you in your giving for Ireland, if yourself stirred by Ireland’s long and Jim Van Dine arduous history and by its present need. He is burdening your heart for this Jim received his undergradu- country. You may know of someone ate degree in Economics at who would like to go but is hesitating Luther College and went on You can pray. to receive a ThM in Old due to finances (ranging from the Testament Literature and Pray that the Lord of the harvest will immediate funds to the need to work, Exegesis and a PhD in Bible send laborers into His harvest (Matthew etc.). There are many other ways to be Exposition from Dallas Theological Seminary. 9:37). There are far more opportunities Jim served for 15 years as a commended worker involved financially including helping at Clareview Bible Chapel in Edmonton, Alberta in Ireland to sow and water the seed of with expenses for literature and general and has served on short-term mission trips in the Word than are being met; not only Ireland and Albania. Jim and his wife Kathy team needs. Contact joined the faculty at Emmaus in 2002. They to the Irish, but to the vast number of [email protected] for have four grown children and 4 grandchildren. immigrants— economic refugees from additional information about this. eastern Europe and political refugees from Africa—who are flooding into this now economically advantaged country. You can support. This includes praying for those who may wish to go but have personal, Even though the Irish economy is financial, or circumstantial obstacles to booming, this does not mean that mis- overcome in order to do so. You can sionaries there are having an easy time pray for those in Ireland who are plan- of it. The U.S. dollar continues to take ning for this summer’s ministry and as a beating against European currencies, they labor day to day. putting a severe strain on those who are dependent on North American Christians for their support. The cost of You can go. living is high; yet missionaries find their financial resources shrinking sim- Be ready to be the answer to your own ply due to the exchange rate. If you as prayer for laborers for the harvest. You an individual or a church are currently 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:32 PM Page 21
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Ken Fleming Caring Across Cultures
ome years ago it was not unusual to see a plaque on the wall of a believer’s home with the motto, “Jesus Cares.” It was meant to assure its reader that when people failed to show care, Jesus still cared. Caring about others can be described as our attitude of concern for their well-being. We care when it matters to us that people are hurt or threatened. True caring occurs in three Ssteps. First we become aware of a situ- ation that threatens their well-being. Then we become concerned to find a way to alleviate the problem. Finally we become active and involved in a plan to bring practical improvement in their situation. Caring should be done for the glory of God and should be motivated by the love of Christ our Savior. The activity of caring includes providing, encouraging, restoring, loving, and serving. Caring for people who are physi- cally near is much easier than caring for them when they are distant from us. We can directly observe those near to us and can respond in a way that improves their well-being, whether they need cash, counsel, or encourage- ment. Caring when those in need are distant from us is not so easy for two obvious reasons. First, distance makes caring about them difficult because we can neither see them nor talk to them. Second, the distance itself makes car- ing for them more difficult because it complicates any active help we would like to make on their behalf. Any kind of verbal, physical, or provisional care is most difficult to provide to people Ken Fleming stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the we do not know and are far away. man who killed his brother, Peter Fleming. Consider some examples of those in
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other cultures who have been benefici- aries of God’s love by caring people. Three examples I have witnessed recently will illustrate cross-cultural caring.
Caring for the Waorani of Ecuador It is more than fifty years since five missionaries were speared to death by the Waorani people in the eastern jungles of Ecuador. These men cared enough for the Wao to put their lives on the line. One of them was my brother Pete. God used their sacrifice to open the door of the gospel to the Waorani through one of their own women who had been saved, and two mission- ary women. All three were willing to risk living with the Waorani in their village. In time the light of the gospel penetrated hearts and a few came to Christ. The care given by the three women included medical and educational help, along with their witness and the translation of the New Testament. Later, others became involved. One by one, many believed. It started with individuals, spread to families, to vil- lages, and to the larger community. Today there are several hundred believers. Their conference in January 2006 was held to say “thank you” to God and to many oth- ers who had cared for their souls. It was thrilling to share their joy and thanksgiving. God has used many others from far away places to minis- ter to their needs. Our interest con- tinues. A group from our local assem- bly went to help with the construc- tion of a new camp building there in the jungle a few months ago.
Original location of a training school in Myanmar.
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Caring for the up the task of administration and have convey how efficiently its sponsors are People of Myanmar used these funds to get hundreds “back using the funds entrusted to them or on their feet” with houses, jobs, gar- how they deal with people who may Years ago a believer in Yangon, the cap- dens, and equipment. I spent a couple volunteer. Find out whether they ital of Myanmar (Burma), had a heart of wonderful weeks with these dear accomplish what they say they do. to reach his people. He was made aware people. It made me thankful to have of the potential of Emmaus a little part in ministering to them. 3. Pray about the various correspondence courses by someone options that are before you. from the other side of the ocean who What Can We Do? Now take what you have learned to cared. Then, at some expense to him- God in prayer. Ask Him for wisdom in The examples above might lead us to self, he made the courses available to the choices you make about how you ask ourselves, “What can we do?” Here people around him. Many were saved will get involved. Ask Him too for clear are five steps you can take to demon- through this means and grew spiritually guidance as to how you may best use strate God’s compassion by your person- through the teaching. The assembly your time, your skills, and your money al involvement in caring for people far grew with the obvious blessing of God. for His glory in this world. One of the courses found its way to a away in the larger world. Christian man in South Chin State, 4. Discern where, when, how, hundreds of miles away. Through that 1. Become aware of needs. The first step is to become informed and who can be involved. Bible course he discovered God’s design When you are satisfied that God has about opportunities and ministries. for the local church. He consequently laid a particular burden on your heart, With open eyes and ears, pay attention led many to Christ and planted several select the place, the time, the way, and to the local church announcements, more assemblies. When he came to with whom you can contribute yourself missions publications, fliers in the post, America for Bible training, believers or your resources. Contact others who news from the media, and reports about here cared enough about him to help may have had a similar burden and friends serving in countries in the pay his bills. Returning to Myanmar, he have become involved. started a school to teach newly saved developing world. There are literally young people and prepare them to serve thousands of needs with hundreds of 5. Share yourself, your God. It is exciting to see the new organizations involved in meeting resources, and your talents. them. Awareness of opportunities will believers in Myanmar being blessed Finally, you are ready with a prepared be your first step. with teachers, library books, facility mind and a caring heart to go, to do, to assistance and in other ways by those give, to write, to join and to serve. God who care. 2. Gather information about particular needs. will give you great joy as you work for His glory and for the advance of the Caring for As you become aware of different needs ✟ some will attract you to respond. Find gospel. Refugees in Sri Lanka all the accurate information you can Ken Fleming In the south and east of Sri Lanka the about them. Some open channels are so Ken Fleming served as a missionary people have been deeply hurt by two much better than others. Bigger is not in South Africa for 25 years and as tragic circumstances. First the tsunami necessarily better. Consult with the Chair of the Missions Department killed thousands and left many more people you know and trust at Emmaus Bible College for 25 years until his recent retirement. thousands homeless, jobless, and penni- who have more experience less. The war between the government than you do. An emo- forces and the “Tamil Tigers” has added tionally powerful Believers at an assembly to their misery and made many of them image on a glitzy refugee camp in eastern refugees twice over. But once again brochure may Sri Lanka. God had people in other countries who not cared for them. First they heard of the plight and needs of hundreds of believ- ers. Then they assessed the needs and planned how best to help them through qualified men in the Colombo assem- blies. Finally they responded with funds sent through assembly mission agencies in North America and Europe. Sri Lankan believers with expertise took
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An “Average Joe” Frank Stephen Believer
In Haiti, I saw Jesus.
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An Average Joe Believer pastor. I doubted I could make a I found that the greatest gift was difference when I was invited to par- the change God made in my heart. I I like to think of myself as your aver- ticipate in a medical mission to Haiti. was a narrow-minded, white American age believer, certainly not more and He encouraged me that even though I raised by bigots on the South Side of often less. How has God used a man had no special skills in that area, just Chicago. I was taught that if you were like me to make a difference in the being there and trying gave the locals not white you were not as good. world? hope; that an American from the land When I arrived in Haiti I discovered Whether or not we make a differ- of “milk and honey” cared. that I was the different person. I was ence isn’t for us to decide. Rather, our in their culture and I was the minority Lord will sit on His throne and judge by 99%. Two days later I was prompt- if we take our inheritance. In A Change of Heart ed to ask a missionary about adoption. Matthew 25: 31-46 Jesus tells us about That trip changed my life. In Now if the Holy Spirit can change my the Final Judgment. This Scripture Haiti, I saw Jesus. I saw Jesus in the heart and transform me so dramatical- has greatly influenced me. I have felt faces of the sick and starving and ly in three days, think what He can a real burden to obey it: naked children. They were the “least of these.” How could I make a differ- do for you if you “let go and let God.” John and his sister Esther were For I was hungry and you gave me ence? I didn’t have wealth or skills. I four and six when they arrived from something to eat, I was thirsty and had a modest home that God provid- Haiti. Can you imagine watching you gave me something to drink, I ed. And I had love. Six months later, their faces as they turned on a light needed clothes and you clothed me. I with conviction from the Holy Spirit, switch or flushed a toilet for the first tell you the truth, whatever you did two of these children came to live time in their lives? We taught them for one of the least of these brothers with us in Iowa, joining our three how to use a knife and fork. We of mine, you did for me” children and dog. watched their little bodies spasm as (vv. 35, 40). In the overall scheme of things, considering the millions of children in three different parasites were expelled My journey down this road began the world in desperate need, what did from them. We watched a lip burst 23 years ago at the urging of my taking two out of poverty do? from infection. We saw them grow “Whoever sows generously will reap into fine, healthy, well-adjusted also generously” (2 Corinthians 9:6). adults. I never saw them as black. I saw them as God’s children and mine. “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15). As the kids grew and before they all left home, we made several short trips to Haiti to re-introduce the children to the culture they had long forgotten. Now in my fifties, I was very involved in running my own business and trying to keep in perspective that it was God’s business in my steward- ship. Something was missing. My wife and I attended Emmaus Bible College as part-time stu- dents. We commuted 100 miles 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:33 PM Page 26
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each way for two years. We hungered Logos II, this time in the Caribbean. Our catering business provides dis- to know how to study God’s Word, A short-term teacher was needed once counted and free meals to churches, what He was trying to teach us, and again. I was needed in the galley, this youth groups, Christian schools, and how to apply it. We traveled to India time as a cook. My wife and I each other ministries. We are able to sup- twice, once to visit friends and mis- worked 40 hours a week on the ship. port missionaries we met on Logos II sionaries our church supported and Sundays were our ministry days and and elsewhere, serving in India, once to travel with an evangelist in Mondays our day off. We often spent Indonesia, Peru, and Haiti. These an outreach ministry. We longed to our evenings and days off serving on folks have started schools, homes for become missionaries but I also had additional ministry teams, such as boys, homes for handicapped children, the obligation of my business and marriage conferences, women’s confer- a bookstore, tailoring businesses and employees. ences and businessmen’s meetings. micro businesses. They have become A friend suggested Operation The ship stayed in port 2-3 weeks at regional directors, pastors, and leaders. Mobilization (OM) as a way to serve a time ministering to the spiritual They are our friends and God’s ser- part time. We e-mailed OM and needs of people and providing a float- vants and they impact thousands of began the lengthy application process. ing library and bookstore, making lives throughout the world. But God had a different timetable. thousands of Christian books and text Don’t think you can’t make a When OM discovered my wife was a books available at affordable prices. difference or “care for the world.” retired elementary school teacher, we Upon our return to Iowa, my wife Take one step at a time and let God found ourselves aboard the mission and I both felt the Lord’s calling to lead. Be quiet and listen. He will ship Logos II in Puntarenas, Costa Rica full-time missionary work with OM. direct your path. Then go and just do three weeks later. The children of the I made plans to sell our catering busi- it! You can support missionaries and full-time missionaries on board need- ness. I believed I obeyed His calling get to know them. Be involved in ed a teacher. and then He closed the door. We both your local church. Walk across the I didn’t know how I could leave developed health problems and need- street or go next door and tell your my business at such a busy time. Then, ed insurance. My doctor estimated the neighbor about Jesus. Baby sit for a during devotions on August 1 before treatment for my lungs would take needy family and leave a Veggie Tale our departure, the Lord made it clear two years. We decided not to go ahead or a “Jesus” DVD or a New Testament. as we read in My Utmost For His with the sale of our business. Within E-mail an encouragement to a mis- Highest. Oswald Chambers teaches six months and after a lot of corporate sionary or encourage your neighbor. that Jesus comes where He commands prayer, my lungs were clear and healed. Be an example. The cost is little us to leave. If we stay at home when or nothing but the profit is great. We He tells us to go, as He told His disci- Faith and Deeds are not all harvesters but we can all ples in Matthew 11: 1, we rob our What good is it, if a man claims to plant seeds. own people of the teaching of Jesus have faith but has no deeds? As the Himself. body without the spirit is dead, so Likewise every good tree bears good Once again, I went along to help faith without deeds is dead fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. wherever I could and found myself (James 2:14,26). A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, washing dishes in the galley in a very and a bad tree cannot bear good ✟ hot and humid climate. Me, the So, what do we do now? Well, we fruit (Matthew 7:17-18). owner of a successful catering business are still in business and God continues in Iowa! The Lord knew I needed to to use us. In the foyer at our banquet be humbled and it was here He hall there is a table under our Lord’s accomplished that. picture with Bibles, tapes, CDs, and We served on the Logos II for “Jesus” videos with a sign, “Free gift seven weeks in Costa Rica and Ecuador for you”. We provide Christian books, and returned to a flourishing business! Bibles, DVDs and tapes to all we come Four months later we left again on into contact with that have a need.
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Journey | magazine White forHarvest Joel Hernandez
am not a farmer, and neither was emptying baskets onto mounds that ever-present threat to crop production. my father. Growing up as an MK in grew taller and wider. Others were So when the harvest finally came, it IMexico, the closest I ever came to busy stuffing the fruit into burlap sacks, was a time for great celebration. Think farming was participating in the annual sowing them shut and stacking them of it. The exuberant produce in- harvest of poblano peppers (the kind onto pickups. There was an upbeat gathering signaled yet another year of used for chiles rellenos). My friend’s par- mood. Some sang while they worked. God’s gracious provision. The fears and ents owned a farm in the country, and A harvest meant good pay and the anxieties concerning the future could every summer they invited me to help bonus of taking their share of the pro- now be put to rest. The poor and hun- in the harvest labor. Understandably, duce. During lunch time laborers ex- gry could once again have hope. The while the adults worked, we children changed stories of harvests past; some prospect of health and vitality spread mostly played. But when the final of frustrations, most of humor and joy. out before the community. No wonder tasks of the day called for lighter the harvest unleashed national festivi- duties, we sprang into action. Harvest: a time ties! It was a joy by which all other I loved the excitement of harvest. of joy and labor joys were measured (Isaiah 9:3). The sweet, pungent aroma of ripe pep- The great joy of harvest came at Harvest time has always been a time of pers hung in the air. Dozens of laborers no small price, however. Reaping the joy. This was especially true in ancient gathered eagerly with a common goal. harvest required extensive and inten- Israel, where limited resources, crop Some were busy plucking the ripened sive labor. Many hands were needed; plagues and political conflict posed an peppers, others shuttled back and forth it was often a community effort. Toil,
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The problem with spiritual harvesting is that fruit seldom looks like fruit.
sweat, and back-breaking labor were nically and spiritually superior to their began asking Jesus to eat something; par for the course. No respectable per- northern neighbors, so they would He declined with a puzzling reply. son would be caught sitting around rather avoid Samaritans altogether, So, what does all this have to do idly when the harvest called for action! let alone engage them in meaningful with the harvest? Nothing, apparently. “He who gathers in summer is a wise conversation. The woman also faces This remarkable encounter did not son; He who sleeps in harvest is a son a communication hurdle. While Jesus happen during harvest time. No one who causes shame” (Proverbs 10:5). is speaking of spiritual realities, the in the vicinity was thinking about the woman cannot see beyond the literal. joys and toils of harvest. Not the The harvest Furthermore, there are the obstacles of woman; not the disciples. None according to Jesus her religious persuasion and immoral except Jesus. lifestyle. John chapter four tells the remarkable Jesus knew what the disciples But none of these obstacles pre- story of an ostracized woman’s journey could not see, that a spiritual harvest vailed in the end, for as result of that to faith. It is remarkable because of the had begun: conversation she trusted in Jesus as considerable obstacles facing her con- Messiah and as her Savior. When the version. She is a Samaritan woman Jesus said to them, “My food is disciples returned (for they had gone who finds it unsettling that a male Jew to do the will of Him who sent to the city to fetch some food), they (Jesus) should engage her in conversa- Me, and to finish His work. Do were surprised that Jesus would be tion. Jews considered themselves eth- you not say, ‘There are still four having such a conversation. They months and then comes the
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harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift disciples. Being a reaper in God’s har- already white for harvest” (v. 35), He up your eyes and look at the fields, vest, then, is the privilege and duty of said. He was speaking about the spiri- for they are already white for har- every believer. tual harvest, of course. And just at the vest! And he who reaps receives Furthermore, spiritual harvesting moment these words were coming wages, and gathers fruit for eternal is God’s work. Jesus calls it “His work” from His mouth, the Samaritan towns- life, that both he who sows and he (v. 34). Though Jesus Himself was the people would be making their way to who reaps may rejoice together. both the messenger and the content meet Him. This was no time for the For in this the saying is true: ‘One of the message, even He did not call it relaxed attitude that gave way to the sows and another reaps.’ I sent His own work. I find this amazing. proverb: “There are still four months you to reap that for which you And He is the example for us to fol- and then comes the harvest” (v. 35). have not labored; others have low. A laborer does not dictate the Instead, Jesus would have His disciples labored, and you have entered terms of the harvest. It is God’s proj- realize that the harvest time had into their labors” (John 4:34-38, ect. He dictates the message. He pro- already come. When it comes to the NKJV). vides the means. He produces the harvest, timing is everything. fruit. Salvation is of the Lord! (Jonah The harvest that Jesus is talking 2:9). As “Lord of the harvest” (Luke 4. Spiritual harvesting about is not the physical gathering of 10:2), He staffs and directs His work. requires collaboration grain, produce or fruit. It is a harvest And if He does not work, the toil of The harvest requires the collaboration of souls; of gathering “fruit for eternal the laborers is futile (Psalm 127:1). of a sower who first plants the seed, life” (v. 36). It requires presenting the and a reaper who harvests the crop. gospel to people whom God has made 2. Spiritual harvesting Imagine an agricultural process where ready, with the result that they trust in is of critical importance the sower and the reaper feel no need Christ and grow in Him.1 And what Notice the high priority Jesus places of each other or, worse yet, set out to does the Lord teach us about the on this harvest. He calls it “My food” compete against one another! Imagine harvest? Four things stand out. (v. 34). It is more important than His a reaper who out of spite refuses to next meal. Imagine that; the One who gather where the sower has sown! 1. Spiritual harvesting sustains and upholds all things would Such project would soon collapse. In is God’s will and work forego physical nourishment not to the spiritual harvest, one enters into To reap souls is nothing short of God’s miss the opportunity to reap souls. the labors of the other (v. 38). Both will. Our Lord called it “the will of Would we? rejoice together (v. 36). It’s no time Him who sent Me” (v. 34). God’s will for petty opposition; it’s time to join Jesus knew what the disciples could not see, is that His Son be a reaper in this har- 3. Spiritual forces for the good of God’s work. vest. It is also His will for believers harvesting is urgent To summarize, then, spiritual today. The Great Commission’s cen- Jesus told His disciples that the fields harvesting is of critical importance, it tral imperative is, “Make disciples” were ripe for the picking. This must is God’s will and work, it is critically (Matthew 28:18-20). As the original have sounded absurd to them! Fields important, urgent, and it requires col- disciples went out and in turn made of barley do not become white until laboration. So, how can I get involved disciples, they were charged to teach the final stages of growth, as the in the harvest, you ask? Following are them to obey everything Christ had greenish color of the heads of grain four practical ways. commanded. Including making gives way to white undertones. It was disciples. And so, each disciple is to not harvest time yet. But the Lord saw make disciples and teach them to make things differently. The fields “are
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that a spiritual harvest had begun.
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1. Pray— 2. Learn— God’s harvest. Patrick Johnstone’s Operation World,2 for example, gives us It’s a matter of first importance The harvest is God’s work a snapshot of the current state of each field, country by country. The Joshua The first thing we should do to get The Lord urged His disciples to con- Project Web site3 provides up-to-date involved in the harvest is pray. Now, sider the needs of His harvest. “Lift up statistics of the world’s unreached eth- if you’re tempted to chalk up prayer as your eyes and look at the fields” (John nic groups. Wycliffe Bible Translators one of the duties of lesser importance, 4:35). They were to observe carefully. compile reports of the languages that consider this. The Lord have the Scriptures, and taught that prayer was a mat- those that still need them.4 ter of first importance. The Ruth Tucker’s book, From first harvest-related command Jerusalem to Irian Jaya,5 is a in the Gospels is found in classic history of the harvest, Matthew 9:36-38: from the Apostolic Era until “But when He saw the now. And the list goes on. multitudes, He was moved Many helpful resources are with compassion for them, available to help you to because they were weary and understand God’s harvest scattered, like sheep having fields. no shepherd. Then He said to His disciples, ‘The harvest truly is plentiful, but the 3. Become— laborers are few. Therefore Acquire the Lord’s pray the Lord of the harvest values of compassion to send out laborers into His and urgency harvest.’” Our Lord Jesus Christ The danger of observation taught His disciples that the and research is that these can harvest-to-laborers ratio was become purely an intellectual significantly out of propor- pursuit, as cold and uncaring tion. Such is still true today! as a lab test. This was not But notice that He did not true of the Lord. “When He instruct: recruit, or go, but saw the multitudes, He was rather, pray! moved with compassion It is not uncommon for for them, because they were weary and believers to pray for missionaries. Some Their observation should lead them to scattered, like sheep having no shep- meet for a refreshing time of fellowship realize the imminence and urgency of herd” (Matthew 9:36). People are not and prayer. Others cooperate in inter- God’s work. And so should we. Look a mere statistic to Him. The over- assembly prayer meetings where mis- around you! There are many people in whelming needs did not drive Him to sionary letters are read and prayed for. need of the gospel; alienated from God dissociate; to become unfeeling, indif- Some organize conferences to raise mis- without knowing it; empty lives long- ferent, uncaring. Quite the opposite, sionary awareness and challenge ing to be filled with things that cannot seeing the need moved Him to com- involvement and giving. All these are satisfy. Look beyond you! There are passion. It stimulated a sympathy or good things, and worthy to be contin- millions of people throughout the godly pity at their predicament. We ued. But, do we still obey our Lord’s world who desperately need Christ. should respond likewise. first command, to pray earnestly that Who are they? We need to learn to see the har- He send laborers to His harvest? We We have at our disposal many vest the way Christ does. The disciples should. good resources to help us understand
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could not see beyond the cultural Conclusion stereotype. They saw a strange woman So, sacrifice comfort and send money to be avoided; an approaching mob of to needy laborers. Sacrifice personal foreigners with ulterior or dangerous ambition and become a laborer. motives. Christ, on the other hand, Sacrifice self and become a diligent saw people ready for a spiritual har- harvester. Jesus did just that, and so vest, and time was of the essence. The did the Samaritan woman. She problem with spiritual harvesting is became an instant, selfless, diligent that fruit seldom looks like fruit. It harvester. She ran back home and by often looks like something that requires her testimony lead many in her town pesticide or eradication rather than to believe in Jesus. Because of her gathering. Yet urgency in harvesting story Jesus taught us to see the harvest demands we forego the stereotypes as God’s will and work, a critically designed to keep us safe, and get busy important and urgent work that reaping. “Whitened fields call not only requires collaboration. Pray, learn, for action, but immediate action.”6 become and collaborate. ✟
1 We usually think of spiritual harvesting 4. Collaborate— as evangelism (when done within our Team up with the harvest culture) or missions (when done outside our culture). We have already seen that, in the 2 Johnstone, Patrick and Jason Mandryk. spiritual harvest, one enters into the Operation World. 6th ed. Waynesboro: Authentic Media, 2005. labors of another, and both rejoice 3
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50 Ways You for the CanCare World 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:33 PM Page 35
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Kindness is Love in Work Clothes.
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Love is patient and kind. 1 Cor. 13:4 Patient and Kind Alex Strauch
magine more than three hun- similar ships, are the result of the The answer: love. dred Christians from forty vision of George Verwer, founder of From the very start of OM, I different nations and various Operation Mobilization (known as George Verwer preached that without denominational backgrounds OM).1 OM was one of the first, short- a “revolution of love”2 the vision for living together twenty-four hours a term mission organizations and has the ships and for the thousands of day. Imagine them working together trained more than 150,000 people in short-term literature teams would be in extremely tight quarters, most of missions. an impossible dream. The kind of love them for two years, some for even The volunteers who serve on the necessary for working together on longer. Imagine them doing all of this ship are ordinary people. They have these ships is not a sentimental, fluffy as unpaid volunteers! Such is life the same weaknesses and character love. It is Calvary’s selfless, self-sacri- aboard the ship MV Doulos. flaws as other human beings. They ficing love. It is the kind of love For the past twenty-seven years, experience aboard the Doulos the described in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: the Doulos has sailed around the world same difficulties people experience love that is patient and kind, love stopping at ports in more than a hun- ashore. The only difference is that on that does not envy or boast, is not dred countries and serving as a the ship there is no running away from arrogant or rude, does not insist on its Christian book exhibit and conference conflict. How can they live and work own way, and is not irritable or center visited by eighteen million together under such extreme condi- resentful. It is Christlike love. people. The Doulos, and two other tions without destroying one another?
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Instructions, Not Poetry Love is should be true of us—whether we are 1. patient elders, pastors, deacons, youth work- First Corinthians 13 is not a theoreti- 2. kind ers, Sunday school teachers, music cal discourse on love or a flowery directors, missionaries, evangelists, hymn glorifying the feelings of love. Love is not Bible study leaders, or church adminis- Paul was not a romantic poet. He was 3. envious trators. an apostle of Jesus Christ—a global 4. boastful In our ministry with people, these missionary, church planter, pastor, and 5. arrogant qualities should be uppermost in our teacher. These words are a critical 6. rude mind. One of the most important part of his instruction and correction 7. selfish chapters in the Bible for life in the to the church at Corinth, which was 8. easily angered local church and for Christian leader- being torn apart by loveless behavior. 9. resentful ship is 1 Corinthians 13. It defines In order to help the Corinthians 10. joyful over wrongdoing how we should behave in marriage, understand their own deficiencies and friendship, church, and society. It the “more excellent way,” Paul lists Love describes what our character should be fifteen positive and negative descrip- 11. rejoices with the truth like—and in Christian ministry, charac- tions of love. In the Greek text, all of 12. bears all things ter is everything. these descriptions are verbs describing 13. believes all things Paul didn’t just write pretty words what love does and doesn’t do. In 14. hopes all things about love, he lived them, and the English, these descriptions are often 15. endures all things Corinthians saw the truth of these translated as adjectives. words in his life. These fifteen qualities beautifully portray the character and behavior of Love Is Patient the Lord Jesus Christ. We are to pat- If we were to ask our Lord, “What is a tern our love and leadership after him loving Christian leader like?” he would (1 John 2:6). With Christ living and first answer, “patient and kind.” So working within us through the Holy Paul begins and ends his love catalog Spirit, the same with the patient, enduring nature of behaviors love (1 Cor. 13:4,7). In an imperfect world, a leader must be characterized by patience. The Greek verb for patience denotes “longsuffering” or “forbear- ance,” particularly in respect to personal injuries or wrongs suf- fered. The Christian spirit of love does not seek to retaliate. It is not quick to anger. God himself is the supreme example of longsuffering.3 When we are tempted to be impatient with others, we should stop and think about the gracious longsuffer- ing of God with us and our many wrongs against him. In light of his patience toward us, who are we to think that we cannot patiently bear 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:33 PM Page 38
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with the weaknesses and failures of Patience is just as important in others—or the wrongs they may have If we were to ask church leadership today as it was in done to us? Paul’s day. Many times a leader’s Lack of patience is a serious defi- our Lord,“What is patience is put to the test. Robert ciency in a Christian leader. Our work Chapman, for example, was well with people is primarily a spiritual a loving Christian known for his love. And like all lov- work, so it must be done God’s way, ing leaders, he showed remarkable with great patience and care. An leader like?” patience with difficult people and impatient leader is as destructive to problems. people as an impatient father is to his he would first Perhaps his patience and love was children or as an impatient shepherd most evident when a clash developed is to his sheep. answer,“patient in a prominent church in Plymouth, Patience is needed because life is England, between two powerful per- full of frustrations, hurts, and injus- and kind.” sonalities: John Nelson Darby, the tices. In fact, it is impossible to lead architect of dispensational theology, people without eventually being rebuke, and exhort, with complete and Benjamin W. Newton, the pri- attacked. People will assail their lead- patience” (2 Tim. 4:2; italics added). mary teacher of the church. When ers’ character, criticize their decisions, Darby and Newton were unable to speak evil behind their backs, and Patient Leaders in Action reconcile their differences, Darby take advantage of their love. Being patient doesn’t imply passivity announced plans to start a new, rival In response to such attacks, love or a refusal to confront people’s sins or church in Plymouth. Darby’s proposal suffers long. So Paul instructs the problems. Without his patient pastoral alarmed many people within the Lord’s servant to be patient when leadership, Paul and the Corinthians church, as well as those who attended wronged: would have gone their separate ways. churches associated with it. Because And the Lord’s servant must not Instead, his firm yet patient handling of Robert Chapman’s love for both be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, of the problems preserved the rela- men, he felt compelled to seek recon- able to teach, patiently enduring evil, tionship. When the Corinthians ciliation. He urged Darby not to pro- correcting his opponents with gentle- unjustly criticized him, Paul didn’t ceed with his intentions, but Darby ness. God may perhaps grant them give up on them, cut them off, refused to heed Chapman’s advice. repentance leading to a knowledge become vindictive, return evil for Darby’s action created two similar of the truth, and they may escape evil, or express anger in a sinful way. congregations in Plymouth of about from the snare of the devil, after being Instead, he answered their criticisms, equal size. These churches continued captured by him to do his will. confronted their sins, and warned of to be at odds with each other, which (2 Tim. 2:24-26) discipline. What is even more remark- caused other churches of similar Also, patience is needed when able is that he did so with true beliefs to choose sides. Then, a year dealing with people’s many weaknesses patience and heartfelt love. later, John Darby made more serious and failures. We must have patience Paul, therefore, could say to the accusations against B. W. Newton’s to bear with those who are slow to Corinthians that his leadership was doctrine. In time, Newton recognized learn, resistant to change, weak in marked by patience, kindness, and his doctrinal error and publicly con- faith, quick to complain, forgetful of love: fessed his wrong. But Darby and his their responsibilities, emotionally We put no obstacle in anyone’s colleagues insisted that Newton’s unstable, fearful, or wayward. Paul way, so that no fault may be found reversal was not genuine. Over time teaches that we are to “admonish the with our ministry, but as servants of they were able to influence many idle, encourage the fainthearted, help God we commend ourselves in every other churches to exclude Newton the weak, be patient with them all” way ... [by] patience, kindness, the and his church from their circle. (1 Thess. 5:14). Also, Paul instructs Holy Spirit, genuine love. (2 Cor. 6:3- Newton recognized defeat and left the Timothy: “preach the word ... reprove, 4, 6) church in Plymouth permanently, but
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the battle was far from over. It would Kindness is a readiness to do The Power of Kindness escalate beyond all reasonable propor- good, to help, to relieve burdens, to Scripture insists that all those who tion, as church fights often do, caus- be useful, to serve, to be tender, and lead and teach the Lord’s people are ing untold heartache. People on both to be sympathetic to others. It has servants who must be kind to every- sides were heartbroken over the bitter been said, “Kindness is love in work one (2 Tim. 2:24). “As servants of division and made continued attempts clothes.” God,” Paul writes, “we commend our- at reconciliation, but to no avail. A God is kind to all,9 and the work selves in every way” by patience and meeting of twelve influential leaders of our Lord Jesus Christ on earth kindness (2 Cor. 6:4, 6). convened to try to resolve the grow- demonstrated abundant and compas- Augustine, in his book ing divisions. During the meeting, sionate kindness. The gospels are Confessions, describes how even dur- Robert Chapman made one of his replete with stories of his kindness to ing his unconverted days, the renown- most memorable statements. He chal- needy men and women: Jesus touched ed preacher and bishop, Ambrose, lenged John Darby: “You should have a man, whom Luke the physician moved him more by kindness than waited longer before separating,” even by excellent preaching: referring to Darby’s inability to resolve his conflict with B. W. Newton. God is kind to all, That “man of God” received me “I waited six months,” Darby and the work of like a father and expressed pleas- replied. ure at my coming with a kindness Chapman’s reply was uncharac- our Lord Jesus Christ most fitting in a bishop. I began teristically testy: “But if it had been at to like him, at first indeed not as Barnstaple, we should have waited six on earth a teacher of the truth, for I had years.” demonstrated absolutely no confidence in your History proved Darby to be impa- Church, but as a human being tient and harsh—not only with B. W. abundant and who was kind to me.13 Newton but with many others.7 Although some began to speak of compassionate Loving leaders are kind, even to Darby in less than gracious terms and kindness. people who criticize, antagonize, or refuse him fellowship, Robert oppose them. It was said of Thomas Chapman did not. His love for John Cranmer, an archbishop of the Church Darby remained unabated. Instead of described as “full of leprosy” (Luke of England: “To do him any wrong disparaging Christian brothers and sis- 5:12-13). William Lane accurately was to beget a kindness from him.”14 ters who followed Darby, he referred describes this as “an unheard-of act of Leadership without kindness is a to them as “brethren dearly beloved compassion.”10 When Jesus encoun- disaster. The Old Testament account and longed for.” Chapman’s sorrow tered a deformed woman bent over by of King Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, for was genuine because he lived accord- disease and a demonic agent, “he laid example, illustrates how unkindness ing to the “more excellent way.” his hands upon her” (Luke 13:13). He ruined a king. Before Rehoboam was touched the eyes of the blind and fed coronated, the people of Israel came the multitudes. He made time to stop Love Is Kind to him and demanded to know the and bless little children. Jesus ate and Paul’s first two descriptions of love spirit in which he would rule them talked with the most hated people of are paired together and balance each because his father’s rule ended in his day, the tax collectors. A notori- other perfectly: Love suffers long (the harsh oppression. Before answering ously immoral woman found kindness passive quality) and love shows kind- the people, he rightly consulted with and mercy at his feet (Luke 7:37-39). ness (the active quality). Patience and the elders—experienced men who had Acts 10:38 sums up the work of Jesus kindness are two sides of the same served his father and knew good and this way: “He went about doing coin of love. “You can no more have bad leadership principles. They coun- good.” love without kindness than you can seled Rehoboam to lead with a kindly have springtime without flowers,” disposition. They said, “If you will be writes W. Graham Scroggie.8 good [kind] to this people and please
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them and speak good words to Notes to Chapter 4 them, then they will be your servants 1 The other ships are the MV Logos (1970-88), which sank off the coast of Chili, and the forever” (2 Chron. 10:7). MV Logos II (sailing since 1990). A newly Disregarding the wisdom and acquired ship is Logos Hope, which will experience of these older men, replace Logos II. To read the thrilling stories of two of these ships see Elaine Rhoton, The Rehoboam rejected their counsel. He Doulos Story (Carlisle, England: OM Pub., Alex Strauch foolishly chose the counsel of his 1998) and Elaine Rhoton, The Logos Story Alex Strauch is the author of Biblical Eldership, young, inexperienced friends to treat (Waynesboro, Ga.: OM Lit., 1988). The New Testament Deacon, and A Christian 2 Leader’s Guide to Leading With Love. He the people with a harsh, heavy hand George Verwer, The Revolution of Love (Waynesboro, Ga.: OM Lit., 1993). serves as an elder at Littleton Bible Chapel in Littleton, Colorado where he resides with his wife, (2 Chron. 10:10-11). As a result, the 3 Ex. 34:6; Isa. 7:13; Jer. 15:15; Rom. 2:4; 9:22; Marilyn. nation divided in civil war. The peo- Gal. 5:22; 1 Tim. 1:16; 2 Peter 3:9, _15. ple wanted a kind king, not a harsh 4 Jonathan D. Burnham, A Story of Conflict: The Controversial Relationship between one. And people are no different Benjamin Wills Newton and John Nelson Darby today. Kindness is a key to leading (Waynesboro, Ga.: Paternoster people effectively. Press/Authentic Media, 2004). 5 W. Graham Scroggie, The Love Life: A Study If we want to reach and influence of 1 Corinthians 13 (London: Pickering & people for Jesus Christ, we must Inglis, n.d.), 39. cultivate a kindly disposition. Acts of 6 Ruth 2:20; 2 Sam. 9:3; Ps. 106:7; 145:17; kindness impact people in big ways Luke 6:35; Rom. 2:4; 11:22; Eph. 2:7; Titus 3:4; 1 Peter 2:3. and capture their attention: a card 7 William L. Lane, The Gospel According to sent to one who is sick, a concerned Mark, NICNT (Grand Rapids, Mich.: phone call, an invitation to dinner, a Eerdmans, 1974), 87. 8 Augustine, Confessions, trans. Henry readiness to help relieve a burden, a Chadwick (Oxford: Oxford University Press, caring voice, a gentle touch, a 1992), 88. thoughtful gesture, a simple expres- 9 Alfred Tennyson, Queen Mary (Boston: James R. Osgood, 1875), 194. sion of interest in another’s concerns, a visit. The way of kindness is the “more excellent way.” ✟
“Patient and Kind” is an excerpt from A Christian Leader’s Guide to Leading With Love by Alexander Strauch, Copyright 2006, Lewis & Roth Publishers. 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:34 PM Page 41 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:34 PM Page 42 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:34 PM Page 43
Journey | Dr. MacLeeod Asks MacLeodDr. Faculty member Dave MacLeod leads us in a public forum to discuss issues pertinent to contemporary Christian life. Last Asks issue he asked the following question:
What is the cause of the current unrest over music in the assemblies and other evangelical churches? Are our differences of opinion simply a matter of generational tastes? Is there 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 past fifteen years?
Charles Wilbur Responds: I am a musician, and I played in praise teams for approximately sixteen years until four years ago. That’s when I realized something essential was missing from my life as a sinner purchased by Christ. My answer to Dr. MacLeod’s question is that there is unrest in the assemblies because we have neglected the doctrine of how and why the saints are to gather in holiness. The truth about what the local church is and how it is to behave has been neglected and compromised by our contemporary practices. Years ago our assembly shunned the use of amplified instruments. Later, a group of other musicians and I were given the green light to begin a praise team. The goal was to enhance corporate worship. No one asked why a musical format that was once disallowed was now okay. Rather we (the praise team) were ecstatic about playing in front of the congregation. Our hearts were sincere in that we wanted to do the right thing. Our goal was not to be musicians performing before an audience, but a group that facilitated worship. I now believe that our team was inconsistent with a biblical view of holiness. I had played in rock bands in clubs in the secular world. I can testify that the adrenaline that moved me then was the same as when we played during worship time. The same basic rock chords that would accompany a Led Zeppelin tune could quite easily fit in with the songs we were playing for God. I even rationalized at one point that this was a good thing. Such a rationalization is very attractive to someone who plays well and wants to play contemporary Christian music for a group of believers in the name of Christian worship. The problem is that such a rationalization is not scriptural. It appeals to the idea that if a person is saved by grace he has license to do whatever he feels is right. The idea of repentance as a daily part of every Christian’s life is unsettling when a person’s main goal is self-fulfillment. 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:34 PM Page 44
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The church is not a place for folks David MacLeod Comments: Dorothy Sloan Responds: to fulfill their needs because the world Years ago I knew a man in Colorado The subject of Christian music inter- isn’t good enough. Rather we are to who had studied classical guitar under ests me because I have been a lover edify one another in the faith remem- the great Andres Segovia. This man of music since childhood. Music has bering that we have been bought back had become an excellent musician. been a form of communication in our from a life of destitution where our sin After he became a Christian, the local world history and I have to say I enjoy separated us from God. The local Christians had him play classical music from Israel, Greece, Italy, church is a place where certain behav- hymns in their meetings. He suddenly Russia, Spain, Japan, China, and iors are to be taught and practiced refused to play in church meetings—in many other cultures. while others are to be shunned. If fact, he stopped playing the guitar all It seems to me that the modern Christians are to be transformed to the together. I asked him why, and he Christian music is an attempt to hide likeness of Christ – to become His answered that in his unsaved days he our differences and lull us into a bride – then the Church needs to be had become very proud of his training repetitive semiconscious and tranquil- divorced from the things of the world. and his accomplishments as a guitarist. ized state. I must admit that after The music issue only brings this reality When I told a friend of this, he singing the same phrase three times to the forefront. The church needs responded, “That man needs to distin- I lose interest in the message and the teaching on holiness and then needs to guish between his past and his sinful harmony, and my mind wanders to repent of her sins. past.” After receiving this counsel, the other subjects. It’s hard for me to be One does not have to be a musi- young man happily returned to playing semi-conscious! cian to understand the difference that his instrument, this time for the glory We have a rich Christian musical exists between contemporary Christian of God and not for the glory of self. legacy of artistic, original, and thought- music that is focused on self and G. H. Pember, the great Brethren Bible provoking lyrics. I worry that the Christian music that serves to edify teacher, had a similar experience, but newer music is a more lazy way of others (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16). Return- in his case it was in the field of educa- enjoying the great, unlimited gifts ing to the original question, I believe tion. He took both a B.A. and a M.A. that God has given us. Long live our that we have been duped into thinking and did so with great pride in his musical legacies! that attractive services are the answer accomplishments. He was then con- to dwindling attendance. The local verted. Did he repudiate his education? Dorothy Sloan church is a place where believers are No. He wrote, “I took honors in clas- to be built up by the apostles’ doctrine sics at Cambridge, but I did it in my John Avery Responds: (Acts 2:42). It is not a place where the unconverted days for my own glory. Current unrest over music in churches main goal is to hear good music. This Since I have known the Lord, howev- and assemblies must be approached is especially true of rock music, which er, I have tried to use it for the spread with biblical discernment, in submis- is of the world. We are a people called of the truth.” sion to one another, and in reverence out of the world to serve God “accept- I can appreciate Brother Wilbur’s to Christ. A serious study of Ephesians ably with reverence and godly fear: For comments about the use of hard rock 5:1–2, 18–21 and Colossians 3:1–3, our God is a consuming fire” (Heb to accompany Christian lyrics. Yet we 12–17 prepares believers to approach 12:28, 29). should be careful not to discourage the issue with greater understanding. young believers from using their tal- The first few verses of both Charles Wilbur ents, in appropriate ways, of course, Ephesians 5 and Colossians 3 admon- Tignall, GA to glorify the Lord. ish us to respond to God and Christ And we should remember that the as our head and example. William hymns we now revere were once new MacDonald writes, “The believer who themselves. When they were intro- is filled with the Spirit is occupied duced they were condemned by older with Christ and not with self.” He believers who were used to singing comments on Ephesians 5:19–21, only the Psalms.
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Journey | Dr. MacLeod Asks
“Now the apostle gives four results Christian experience. . . .” experientialism. The difference is sim- of being filled with the Spirit. First, “Using these various types of ple. A true experience goes beyond Spirit-filled Christians speak to one songs we should sing with grace or mere feeling. It takes in a wealth of another in psalms and hymns and thanksgiving, in our hearts to the actions in which heart and mind, spiritual songs. . . . A second evidence Lord. At this point it might be well to filled to the full and integrated of the filling is inward joy and praise say that the Christian should use dis- accordingly, join to bring remarkable- to God: singing and making melody cernment in the type of music he uses. ness. Experientialism is narrow and in your heart to the Lord. . . . A third Much of the so-called “Christian” short-lived; it can be addictive and result is thanksgiving: giving thanks music of today is light and frothy. A basely profane. It thrives on feeling. always for all things to God the great deal of this music is utterly con- It is suspicious of the mind and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus trary to Scripture, and still more is so intellect. As tempting as it might be Christ. . . . The fourth test of being similar to the world’s “pop” and rock to go all-out for an experience, and as Spirit-filled is submitting to one that it is a discredit to the name of prevalent as experientialism is in the another in the fear of God.” Christ” (Believer’s Bible Commentary, contemporary church, true worshipers MacDonald summarizes, “We should 2012–13). should turn aside from this both out of earnestly desire to be filled with the My study of the music issue began spiritual integrity and out of deep Spirit, but only for the glory of God, when our church started a study of hunger for the Lord rather than the not for our own glory.” (Believer’s Bible biblical governance. Not being quali- experience” (Unceasing Worship, Commentary [Nashville: Nelson, fied musically to address this issue, 70–71). 1995], 1946) research identified those who are He continues, “The church des- Colossians 3:16 says, “Let the qualified. Harold Best, former Dean of perately needs an artistic reformation word of Christ dwell in you richly in the Conservatory of Music at Wheaton that does two things at once: first, it all wisdom, teaching and admonishing College, has addressed the music issue takes music out of the limelight and one another; in psalms, hymns, and in Unceasing Worship (Downers puts Christ and His Word back into spiritual songs, singing with grace in Grove: IVP, 2003). Best asks, “In our prominence; and second, it strives your hearts to the Lord.” Mr. corporate gatherings can we distin- creatively for a synthesis of new, old MacDonald suggests the following, guish between the horizontal power and cross-cultural styles. A deep “There are thus three sections to the of profane synergies and Spirit-driven understanding of the arts coupled to verse. First, we are to let the word of ones? Secularly minded critics love the understanding that at best the Christ dwell in us richly. The word of to point out the similarities between music of corporate worship is simple, Christ refers to the teachings of Christ profane and spiritual group behavior, humble and variegated, would bring as found in the Bible. . . . The second especially with regard to its more something about that would make all thought is that in all wisdom we overt forms: hand raising, clapping, churches into worshiping and witness- should be teaching and admonishing dancing, applauding and shouting. ing churches that happen to sing” one another. . . . The third thing is Likewise, church leadership can erro- (Unceasing Worship, 75). that with psalms and hymns and spiri- neously make use of these similarities My responsibility both as a tual songs we should sing with grace by treating worship as if it were, in believer and as an elder is to follow in our hearts to the Lord. Psalms fact, behaviorally created. And so the this apostolic advice: “I will pray with describe those inspired utterances, circle between worldly and churchly the spirit, and I will pray with the which are found in the book by that practice remains unbroken. God understanding also; I will sing with name, which were sung as part of knows the difference, and we must the spirit, and I will sing with the Israel’s worship. Hymns, on the other learn it as well, or suffer the conse- understanding also” (1 Corinthians hand, are generally understood as quences of confusing spiritual power 14:15). songs of worship and praise addressed and ordinary power, even when to us to God the Father or to the Lord they appear similar. . . .” John H.Avery, Ed.D. Jesus Christ. . . . Spiritual songs refer “We live in a culture that is given Bloomington, IL to religious poetry describing over not so much to experience as to
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Journey | magazine
Ron Mears Responds: David MacLeod Comments: I will not boast in anything, The cause of current unrest over music I, too, do not appreciate many con- No gifts, no pow’rs, no wisdom, involves the lack of spiritual content in temporary compositions because of But I will boast in Jesus Christ, the familiar praise songs favored by the their empty and self-centered lyrics. His death and resurrection, younger generation. Praise songs with Let us not forget, however, that many Why should I gain from His reward? frequent repetition and preponderance of the newer pieces are quite wonder- I cannot give an answer, of personal pronouns (I, me, mine, we, ful. For example, Stuart Townend has But this I know with all my heart: us, et.) relative to the name of our written this contemporary hymn: His wounds have paid my ransom. Savior (Christ, Jesus, Son, etc.) lead one to understand that they emanate How deep the Father’s love for us, 1Stuart Townend, “How Deep the Father’s Love from the soulish part of man rather How vast beyond all measure, for Us,” on the CD, Say the Word (Kingsway than our spiritual center. The hymns That He would give His only Son, Music). of centuries past by Charles Wesley, To make a wretch His treasure, Thomas Kelly, A. M. Toplady, Isaac How great the pain of searing loss, Watts, A. P. Gibbs and many others The Father turns His face away, lead us to deeper spiritual worship As wounds which mar the chosen while, at the same time, we recount One, some of the basic doctrines of our faith. Bring many sons to glory. To understand the words of hymns (not used in youthful vocabulary) one Behold the Man upon a cross, must keep the mind engaged, which is My sin upon His shoulders not necessary when repeating three Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice, lines of a praise song nine times. Call out among the scoffers, Singing the wonderful hymns is not It was my sin that held Him there, only an expression of our adoration of Until it was accomplished, our Savior's glory and sacrifice, but a His dying breath has brought spiritual expression of true worship me life, which draws us to deeper love for Him. I know that it is finished.
Ron Mears Alpine, California
NEXT ISSUE’S QUESTION: What are the criteria by which an evangelical Christian chooses a candidate for president?
Please send responses to Journey Magazine, Emmaus Bible College, 2570 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA 52001, or e-mail to [email protected]. Include name, city, state, and daytime phone number. Letters may be edited to yield brevity and clarity.
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Journey | A Word Along the Way
Chris Lange For the World is Passing Away
The clarity of the message that afternoon reminded me that I am a child of privilege in America, that my home, my vehicles, and my lifestyle set me apart from a great percentage of other believers who yearn for Christ s return.
hen I was growing up, and before I became a Christian, my father provided well for our family. We were not wealthy by any means, but we were able to enjoy many of the benefits that his line of work afforded us. College was Wnot free but a privilege and was extended to my brother, my sister, and me. Cars were not free, discretionary cash was occasional, and family trips were limited. My brother and I, however, grew up near superb golf courses and learned to play the game. To this day golf continues to hold my emotions in its summertime grip. The whisper in my mind of soft fairways and rolling greens can always set me adrift. Of all the pleasures that I enjoy here on earth before the Lord returns, a golf course can steal my mind away from just about anything. The cushioned punch of a well-hit iron toward a green pocketed in a grove of heavy hanging trees, surrounded by beautiful shrubs and manicured traps, is more than a challenge: it is a golden moment that holds all the promise of skill and joy in the heartbeat of a golf swing.
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Recently, after a great round of “luke warmness” and about spiritual own heart’s ease and contentment, golf, I was brought short by a news poverty. I need this sentinel alert in and their pursuit, then I am in danger magazine story of Christians suffering my life, especially as I get older and of wasting the time I have been given in Third World nations, languishing lean toward less taxing, more relaxing by the Savior to serve Him. Souls for Christ in horrible prisons because circumstances. count for eternity; our yards and of their love for Him. It was one of We read, “Do not love the world, pleasant landscaping are not eternal. those clear alerts that I as a believer nor the things in the world. If any one Do I try to make a heaven on earth have sometimes experienced (perhaps loves the world, the love of the Father with the patch of real estate “I own”? should have more often) when I have is not in him” (1 John 2: 15). Not in Neighborhood relationships, cultivat- been lulled into spiritual dullness by me? I suggest that our lifestyles are ed for the sake of true friendship and the pleasantness of my lifestyle and prone to make us focus more on that for availability, and not for conquest, circumstances—an insensitivity to the which pleases us and beckons us to may yield fruit for eternity. Money more important purpose for being meet our need for mind and heart’s spent exclusively for serving self will here...to please God and to tell others ease...and to maintain such patterns. not yield eternal reward when it will of His love. The clarity of the message As believers awaiting our Lord’s matter the most. that afternoon reminded me that I am return, we don’t “love the world”; but a child of privilege in America, that my we seem often to dance in and through We’re just passin’ through... home, my vehicles, and my lifestyle its pleasures, hoping not to be over- Years ago, on a clear day by Long set me apart from a great percentage taken by them but to play games, see- Island Sound, my brother Ken and I of other believers who yearn for ing how close we can come to world- were driving with my uncle along a Christ’s return. liness without being compromised. beachfront road. We passed by old It was cause for me to think care- My point is not a call to be a country beach homes: weathered, fully about 1 John 2: 15-17, to remind Christian curmudgeon, to live a exclusive, and exquisite in their salt- myself that regardless of what I own mendicant life disparaging all earthly air waterfront locations. They were and consider my things, this world is pleasures and frowning on those who the life goal of all those who would indeed passing away. enjoy them. The apostle Paul’s exhor- grasp hold of the good life, reminders tation in Philippians 4: 10-13 empha- for Ken and me of what our lives We’re supposed to be sizes the truth that in Christ we are might have been like had we never concerned about others... complete, lack nothing, and are fit to left the East—and had we not been live in plenty and in want. Paul knew Your lives may be very much like saved. While musing over them, I how to live in prosperity, and I don’t what my wife and I have worked so heard him in the back seat softly believe he rejected such abundance. hard for these last (soon to be) 36 humming a song that we both knew Yet it is a reminder that we tend to years together: no debt, spacious well: “This world is not my home; I’m forget what is most important. home, our kids nearby, wonderful just a-passin’ through. If heaven’s not Ultimately it is a life lived worthily friends, the privilege of teaching my home, O Lord what can I do? The for Christ—and a life lived loving young people, and the treasure of dis- angels beckon me from heaven’s open people—that will count for eternity. If cretionary time. It is a life without door, and I don’t feel at home in this my life holds only those good things hunger, without daily struggle, with- old world anymore.” It was a timely that promote my out fear of persecution. But it is the message from my brother, and a awareness of this that unnerves me love song from enough to feel desperately needy before my Savior. I know the verses: “Because you say, ‘I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,’ and you do not know that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked” (Revelation 3:17 NASB). The Lord Jesus cuts to the quick about spiritual 205796_EP 4/11/08 12:34 PM Page 49
Journey | A Word Along the Way
the Lord, that drew me back to my I sense, however, that evil motive, and not a worrisome true heart’s desire. We often talk anxiety about what I should give up about that moment, remembering the our current “fenced in order to gain spiritual notoriety. impact of our changed lives and redi- homes” may be I believe it takes a spiritually rected priorities. Those moments are trained mind that is committed to good. walling out everything Christ to resist the boastful pride of I can also remember years ago life and to reject its “dread sway.” It is hearing for the first time the expres- that we just don’t a daunting thought to consider how sion “cedar fence neighborhoods.” want to deal with: Demas had deserted Paul because of While living in Colorado, cedar his “love for this present world” (2 fences pretty much characterized all neighborhood Timothy 4:10). What was it that new neighborhoods near us. It was the squabbles, the critical made him slip away—material wealth, way “to fence in your family’s world comfort, freedom from others’ prob- and to enjoy your privacy.” Though needs of others lems, exhaustion and the need for we had three children at the time, around us, or the space, a lifestyle hidden away from the and needed a well-fenced backyard to taxing demands of church life and of corral the boys, we did it, too—just loneliness that many responsibility? I pray that I understand like everybody else. But fencing in live with daily. what is at stake spiritually and that I your private world may also be “fenc- not give in to the self-centered cocoon ing out” your neighbors. Robert Frost of the superficial and temporal. I want writes in his poem “Mending Wall” private selves becomes less intimidat- to walk in those good works that the that “good fences make good neigh- ing and far more rewarding. Lord Jesus prepared beforehand for me bors.” Perhaps. I sense, however, that Matthew tells us in chapter 6 that (Ephesians 2:10), and not miss out on our current “fenced homes” may be we are to seek first His kingdom and pleasing Him and helping others. walling out everything that we just His righteousness. As believers, there The golf course may be a don’t want to deal with: neighbor- should be no fear in doing so, for metaphor of relaxation and heart’s hood squabbles, the critical needs of kingdom riches from His hand are ease for me these days. By the way, others around us, or the loneliness much to be prized above all else. I what life pattern or cherished pursuit that many live with daily. This becomes believe the Lord Jesus had this in has kept you away from open-handed a mindset and may govern the way we mind when he counseled the disciples service to others and has made you live our lives far more than we want in Matthew 19. Peter’s ingenuous prone to “pass by on the other side of to admit...even more than our fences question sets up the Lord’s response: the road”? I want my heart’s desire to govern our yards. “Behold, we have left everything and be focused on the wonder and awe of followed You; what then will there be Jesus’ presence and on what He has We’re to serve all men... for us?” (v. 27). Jesus’ reply, apart from prepared for me, that “which eye has Believers are encouraged not to lose the recognition of the disciples’ future not seen and ear has not heard” (1 heart in doing good, for time will administrative reign with Him, states, Corinthians 2:9). I also want to leave ✟ bring the benefits of love for Christ “Everyone who has left houses or my gate open. meted out in service to others brothers or sisters or father or mother (Galatians 6: 9-10). The body of or children or farms for My name’s Christ ought to be our first concern, sake, shall receive many times as but believers ought not to be restrained much, and shall inherit eternal life” in their service to all men. Turning (v. 29). His caveat was that men’s outward to meet the needs of others, motives will be born out in the end, rather than fixing primarily on our that “the first will be last; and the last, own needs, affords us the joy of com- first” (v. 30). I want the desire of my Chris Lange heart regarding what I forfeit in this Chris Lange is the Chair of the General Education mitting to others for Christ’s sake. In Department at Emmaus where he has served on the doing so, the fear of giving away our life to His service to be authentic, faculty since 2000. Chris and his wife Nancy have hard-earned money, time, and our wholehearted, and unfeigned, without four grown children and are enjoying their first grandson.
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Journey | magazine
If my life holds only those good things that promote my own heart.s ease and contentment, and their pursuit, then I am in danger of wasting the time I have been given by the Savior to serve Him.
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Journey | On the Road Journey | magazine Emmaus On the Road
Name Location/Events City/State Dates Lisa Beatty Iron Sharpens Iron Conference Dubuque, IA May 22 – 24
Ken Daughters Verdugo Pines Bible Camp Wrightwood, CA May 2 – 4 Iron Sharpens Iron Conference Dubuque, IA May 22 – 24
Ken Fleming Iron Sharpens Iron Conference Dubuque, IA May 22 – 24 Missionary Orientation Program Greenwood Hills, PA June 16 – 21
Dave Glock Iron Sharpens Iron Conference Dubuque, IA May 22 – 24
Jon Glock Iron Sharpens Iron Conference Dubuque, IA May 22 – 24 Mountain Top Youth Camp Pinnacle, NC June 15 – 21 Iowa Bible Camp Manson, IA June 22 – 28 Horton Haven Christian Camp Chapel Hill, TN July 6 – 12
Joel Hernandez Verdugo Pines Bible Camp Wrightwood, CA May 2 – 4
John Jimo Iron Sharpens Iron Conference Dubuque, IA May 22 – 24
David MacLeod Oak Lawn Bible Chapel Oak Lawn, IL May 4, 11, 18, 28 Bethesda Hall Singapore June 1, 8, 15 Assembly Bible Camp Johore, West Malaysia June 9 – 14
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Journey | On the Road Journey | magazine Emmaus On the Road
Name Location/Events City/State Dates Ben Mathew Warrenville Bible Chapel Warrenville, IL May 18, 25 Iron Sharpens Iron Conference Dubuque, IA May 22 – 24 Horton Have Christian Camp Chapel Hill, TN June 1 – 6 Texas Youth Conference Houston, TX June 20 – 22 Northeast Conference New York, NY July 18 – 21
Dan Smith Bayside Community Church Tampa, FL May 25 Lakeside Bible Camp Clinton, WA June 16 - 20
Mark Stevenson Iron Sharpens Iron Conference Dubuque, IA May 22 – 24 Oak Lawn Bible Chapel Oak Lawn, IL June 22, 29 Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel Dubuque, IA July 6, 13 Koronis Bible Camp Paynesville, MN July 21 – 27
Steve Witter Forest Hills Bible Chapel Grand Rapids, MI May 4 Asbury Community Chapel Dubuque, IA May 11 Countryside Bible Chapel Lexington, MA May 18 Iron Sharpens Iron Conference Dubuque, IA May 22 – 24 Horton Haven Christian Camp Chapel Hill, TN May 25 – 30 Cornerstone Community Church Des Moines, IA June 1 Koinonia Conference Grounds Watsonville, CA June 6 – 8 Countryside Bible Chapel Boone, IA June 15 IFCA National Convention Eugene, OR June 20 – 24 Warrenville Bible Chapel Warrenville, IL June 29, July 6 Gospel Chapel Nashville, TN July 13 Woodside Bible Chapel Maywood, IL July 20 Chambersburg Gospel Chapel Chambersburg, PA July 27
Mark Woodhouse Iron Sharpens Iron Conference Dubuque, IA May 22 – 24 Keystone Bible Chapel Omaha, NE June 15 Camp Living Water Bryson City, NC July 14 – 19 Willowbrook Bible Camp Des Moines, IA July 27 – Aug 2
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].
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News from Emmaus
Forge Road Bible Chapel (Perry Hall, Alumni Window Project MD), Grace Gospel Chapel Thanks to our generous alumni, at (Plumsteadville, PA), Greenwood least 24 new windows will soon grace Hills Gospel Chapel (Fayetteville, the Emmaus dormitories! The PA), and Warrenville Bible Chapel Alumni Committee sent out a letter (Warrenville, IL). The people we met in November, and as a result we were at each chapel were very excited able to raise $24,562, far surpassing about our visit, and they told us sever- our original goal of $10,000. Many of al times how blessed they were by the the current windows are cracked and concerts and their interaction with not energy-efficient, and each costs the Ensemble. The students’ Christ- about $1,000 to replace. Thank you like behavior was also evident at again to the many of you who con- places other than the chapels. At a tributed. We look forward to sharing service plaza in Indiana, we encoun- photos of this project as improve- tered a lady who asked where we were ments are scheduled for this Spring! from because it was “obvious that [we Christian Ministries Seminar were] believers”. Emmaus was pleased to host its annual One huge answer to prayer is that Emmaus Student Christian Ministry Seminar on no one became ill on the trip, and Teachers Abroad February 10-12, 2008. Our plenary everyone was able to sing almost every This academic semester, three of our speaker, Dr. Larry Moyer from concert. God also provided good seventeen student teachers are fulfilling EvanTell ministries brought encour- weather for each destination (particu- agement and insight to our students larly the day we spent at the Inner on the need to know and preach the Harbor in Baltimore), and we did not gospel in word and deed. Over 70 have any delays in our travels. We people from 40+ ministries were on were able to spend a couple of morn- campus to expose our students to the ings at the historical sites of Valley many opportunities in camp, missions Forge and Gettysburg due to two con- and para-church ministries. It was a certs in eastern Pennsylvania. The wonderful time of encouragement and highlight of the tour for everyone, fellowship, and a time where many however, was the opportunity to sing students makes decision about their at these different assemblies and min- ministry for both short and long term. ister to the people at each one. We Lori Kratzer were very encouraged by how much they enjoyed hosting us and how their internships in various countries. Emmaus Ensemble Tour 2008 wonderful it was to fellowship and Lori Kratzer is student teaching in the worship with other believers across upper elementary grades at Sakeji We serve an amazing and faithful the country. School in Zambia, Africa, Melinda God! He answered so many prayers Seeman is student teaching in first for the Ensemble tour this year above grade at Rosslyn Academy in Nairobi, and beyond what we imagined. The Kenya, and Meagan Linebaugh is stu- Ensemble visited Grand Haven Bible dent teaching in the sixth grade at Chapel (Grand Haven, MI), Jefferson Mountainview International Hills Bible Church (Pittsburgh, PA), Christian School in East Java,
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Journey | News from Emmaus
News from Emmaus
experience, including research, lan- “I and all students, we don’t say “ guage learning and ministry. India, you are teacher.” Israel, Italy, Kenya, Romania, and But we say “you are our mum, our Turkey are just a few of the countries sister. You are best teacher. Thank you where students have fulfilled their Lisa mum.” ICS Internship. I think of our interns often, recalling the Savior’s words: “whoever loses his life for my sake shall find it.” And I ask you: is there anything more rewarding in life than spending your- Mindy Seemen self for the glory of our Lord? Indonesia. Meagan recently transi- tioned from a third grade classroom - Joel Hernandez to her current placement for the bal- Lisa Johnson (left) ance of her internship. They are grateful for God’s faithful provision As I write, Rachel Moellers is in Record Snowfall! in meeting their needs, and would Taiwan living with a native family. Headline news indicates Dubuque has appreciate prayer. Though they have She is busy learning Mandarin and set a new seasonal snowfall record at faced various challenges ranging from sharing the Gospel through making 78.7 inches, breaking the former lost luggage to political unrest to cul- friends and impromptu ministry record of 75.7 inches received during tural adjustments, each is convinced opportunities. She recently shared the the winter of 1961-1962. Our mainte- that the Lord has sent her to the Gospel with an older Buddhist woman nance crew deserves our thanks and right place to develop her craft of who had never heard it before! appreciation for the many hours they teaching and to share God’s love spent blowing snow, shoveling and with young people in another culture. Lisa Johnson is in the Arabian salting our lots and sidewalks this Peninsula, in a country that winter. To say that our faculty, staff Operation World classifies as one of the least evangelized countries of the world. She is teaching English, and forging relationships. Her very first class put their new English skills to work in a thoughtful thank you card. Their simple words portray a deep gratitude:
Meagan Linebaugh ICS Interns Abroad and students are itching for warmer One of the most exciting components weather is a vast understatement. of the Intercultural Studies (ICS) (Statistical information obtained major at Emmaus is the overseas from http://www.weather.gov/ internship. During the semester-long climate/getclimate.php?wfo=dvn ) internship, students get to integrate Rachel Moellers their classroom instruction with field
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The top three reasons to consider Emmaus Bible College…
1. Solid Academics
AREAS OF STUDY 2. Student Life Bible Exposition and Theology Biblical Counseling (minor) Biblical Languages (minor) Biblical Studies (A.A. or certificate) 3. Close Relationships Business Administration (A.A.)† Computer Information Systems* Elementary Education* Intercultural Studies* Music Education* Music Ministry* Nursing (A.A.S.)† TESOL—Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (minor or certificate) Youth Ministries*
*Features a double major in Biblical Studies
†Dual degree program with Biblical Studies through Northeast Iowa Community College
✁
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B L E I B C O S L U L
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Luke 24:27
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