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THE BATTLE FOR PERSONAL HOLINESS

Last Sunday our family theme at Victory Church was "holiness."  Below is my sermon outline for the message titled: "The Battle for Personal Holiness."

Our memory verse is: Ephesians 4:24 (NKJV) Put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.

In our D6 CLEAR Sunday school lesson this week we discovered…

1.    Growing believers should live in unity with one another. (Eph 1:1-6)
2.    Growing believers are active in the ministry (Eph. 4:7-13)
3.    Growing believers should mature in their faith, love people, and work together (Eph 4:14-16)
4.    Growing believers honor God with their mind and actions (Eph 4:17-19)
5.    Growing believers allow God to transform their thoughts and attitudes (Eph 4:20-32)
___________________________________________________________________

Hebrews 12:14 (NIV) Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.

1 Thessalonians 4:7 (NIV) For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life.

We pursue holiness not only because Scripture commands it, but more importantly, because God Himself is holy; and we are to reflect that holiness in our lives.

1 Peter 1:15 (HCSB) As the One who called you is holy, you also are to be holy in all your conduct.

I. THE BATTLE GROUND FOR HOLINESS

A. THE HEART

THE MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION

This Sunday at Victory Church our family theme of the week was reconciliation.  In our Sunday school lesson this week we discovered…

1.  Our sin created a gap between God and us. (Eph 2:1-3)
2.  Jesus Christ bridges the gap between God and us. (Eph 2:4-7)
3.  Good works cannot bridge the gap between God and us. (Eph 2:8-10)
4.  Jesus Christ bridges the gap between races. (Eph 2:11-18)
5.  Jesus Christ makes us stones in the building of God’s holy temple. (Eph 2:19-22)

Our memory verse for the week was Ephesians 2:4-5 (HCSB) But God, who is abundant in mercy, because of His great love that He had for us, 5 made us alive with the Messiah even though we were dead in trespasses. By grace you are saved!

Below is my sermon outline titled "The Ministry of Reconciliation."

WHY IS RECONCILIATION IMPORTANT?

1. Reconciliation can transform hopeless relationships. 

HOW DO YOU HANDLE THE UNSTABLE ECONOMY?

I’m sure you are aware of the financial crisis our country, even the entire world is in today.  How do we as Christians deal with the “unstable economy” of our day? 

Answer?  Have an eternal perspective on everything! 

Having an eternal perspective helps us deal with the “earthly ups and downs, stock market highs and lows, and acquiring and losing of stuff.”  All that will matter in eternity is the glory that came to God as a result of our life. We will be most blessed when God is most glorified.

If I’m concerned about God being glorified, then I’m less concerned about hoarding, giving my kids the best stuff, being comfortable, seeking a life of leisure, or keeping up with my neighbor.  The Bible reminds us of the brevity of our lives:

Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” (James 4:13-15)

I’ve been reminded in these very unstable days how faith is so vital to our relationship with God; if I’m exhibiting faith, then I’m pleasing God. If I’m pleasing my God, then it’s easier to be content with my physical and financial position. As the Bible reminds us,

“Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him” (Hebrews 11:6).

It takes faith to give our tithe and offerings to our church. It takes faith to give up immediate gratification now and invest for later.  If you rely on movies, advertising, fashion trends, Hollywood celebrities, or the gang at work for your guidance and counsel, then you’ll not be content. You’ll be anxious and feeling as if you don’t have what it takes to be successful. But seek first God’s Kingdom and His counsel. The Bible compares the result of earthly wisdom and heavenly wisdom:

For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. (James 3:16-17)

In these days of uncertainty, I would like to encourage you to look to our God and have faith in Him!

HAVE YOU EVER QUESTIONED GOD?

Job 38:1–3 Then the Lord answered Job from the whirlwind. He said: Who is this who obscures [My] counsel with ignorant words?  Get ready to answer Me like a man; when I question you, you will inform Me.

Job was a righteous man who, from a human perspective, and did not deserve to suffer. He lived a blameless life and followed God's laws to the letter. As he was experiencing great tribulation, Job cried out in frustration and questioned why God was allowing him to suffer. God came to Job in the form of a whirlwind with His answer. As soon as God spoke, Job recognized that he should not have challenged God's wisdom.

God turned to Job and asked him several sobering questions: “Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Where were you when I set the oceans in their place? Where were you when I put the constellations of stars in position?” God's questions humbled Job and reminded him that his own wisdom did not begin to compare with God's.

When God finished asking His questions, Job replied, “I have uttered what I did not understand, / Things too wonderful for me, which I did not know” (Job 42:3).

In a moment of despair and frustration, Job had challenged God's wisdom. God had firmly reminded Job that He was still sovereign and that this truth was enough for Job. Whether Job ever knew that his life had been the focus of a cosmic struggle is unclear. Perhaps Job never realized that his experience brought glory to God in the face of Satan's challenge (Job 1:8–12). But Job was satisfied to know that God's wisdom was flawless.

At times you may not understand why a loving Father would allow you to suffer as you are. You may question the wisdom of God's direction for your life. Learn from Job. Review the awesome power and wisdom of almighty God (Job 38–41).

Have confidence that this same God is directing your path

IS YOUR FAITH WAVERING?

With the $700 billion bailout being voted down (and rightly so) the stock market took the largest plunge downward since 9-11-01. 

Question, is your faith wavering?  Are you being overwhelmed with fear?  I trust you are not, because the "source" for all our needs is the Lord, not the Dow Jones!  Philippians 4:19 (HCSB) And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

With money and finances being on everyone's mind as of late, I thought I would post some humor and zingers concerning money.  Enjoy, and remember, in these days of uncertainty, look to the Lord, He is faithful!   

JOKE: The apostle Peter writes: "But do not ignore this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day" (2 Peter 3:8 NRSV).

An economist who read this passage was quite amazed and talked to God about it. "Lord, is it true that a thousand years for us is like one minute to you?" 

The Lord said yes.

The economist said, "Then a million dollars to us must be like one penny to you."

The Lord said, "Well, yes."

The economist said, "Will you give me one of those pennies?"

The Lord said, "All right, I will. Wait here a minute."

MONEY & SCRIPTURE

Greed brings trouble (Proverbs 15:27)

Do not make money the most important part of your life (Matthew 6:19)

Money can distract people from God (Mark 10:17-24)

You cannot serve both God and money (Luke 16:13)

Christians should share their resources with those in need (Acts 2:42-45)

Christians should not be lovers of money (1 Timothy 3:3)

We should look to God for security, not money (1 Timothy 6:17-19)

Do not love money (Hebrews 13:5)

Be careful to treat rich and poor equally (James 2:1-9)

IT'S NOT THAT DIFFICULT - JUST OBEY!

The Christian life is not difficult!  “This command that I give you today is certainly not too difficult or beyond your reach.” (Deuteronomy 30:11)

The Christian life is not difficult. The same Christ who lived a perfect, obedient, and sinless life stands prepared to live it again through you (Gal. 2:20). God's will is not hard to discern. He has given us the Scriptures, which reveal His will, and He has placed His Holy Spirit within us to guide us to His perfect will in every situation (John 16:13). Our greatest challenge will be to wholly commit our lives to follow God's will obediently as He reveals it.

Moses gathered the Israelites around Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim before they were to enter the Promised Land. There, God described what they had to do in order to obey Him. God gave detailed instructions so there was no mistaking what was expected of them. Then God asked them to make a choice. If they chose to disobey His commands, they would face His wrath. If they chose to obey, they would receive His blessing.

God's Word comes to you in the same way. It is not too complex to understand. You don't have to struggle to discern God's will about adultery or forgiveness or honesty. God's word is perfectly clear. The question is, how will you respond?

Nowhere in Scripture did God excuse disobedience because His instructions were too vague or complex. Condemnation came because they knew exactly what God wanted them to do, yet they chose not to do it! God, through His Holy Spirit, will always give you sufficient revelation and strength to take the next step with Him.

If you are uncertain about what God is asking of you, make sure that you are obeying all that you do know, and through your obedience, God's next instruction will become clear.

VICTORY'S OPERATION SATURATION REACHES 2000 HOMES!

Over the weekend about 65 "warriors" from Victory Church showed up at O'Fallon Family Sports Park to receive their door hangers, maps, and marching orders.  In about an hour we placed "monster-size door hangers" on the doors of 2000 homes!  Following the saturation we gathered back for a cook-out.  What a great time we had!  Thanks guys, you all are awesome! Kudo's to Darrell and Linda Renfro for organizing this event!  

CHECK OUT VICTORY'S NEW WEBSITE!

We have been working very hard over the last 6 weeks or so designing and developing our new website for Victory Church.

Now when I say "we," I am not talking about professional web designers; I'm talking about our Worship Leader, Wayne Kunde and me!  We both have the gift of "trial and error!" lol :)

Fell free to share with me some positive criticism and let me know your thoughts concerning our new site.  Remember, we are no where near "completion" of this site, but it is at least up and running.

Click the "comments" link below and share your thoughts about our new site. Click here to be directed to the new Victory Church website.

REVENGE!

Friends, do not avenge yourselves; instead, leave room for His wrath. For it is written: Vengeance belongs to Me; I will repay, says the Lord.—Romans 12:19

One of the hardest areas in which to trust God is in the matter of justice. When we perceive an injustice, we want to see the guilty party punished. We want justice to prevail, especially if we are the victim. We become impatient if we are not avenged quickly. Yet God warns us that vengeance is not our prerogative. We are to desire justice, but we are not to seek vengeance (Mic. 6:8). When someone offends us, our responsibility is to respond to the offense with forgiveness (Matt. 5:44). God takes the responsibility to see that justice is done. God loves people too much to allow sin to go unchecked.

Peter claimed that God is not slow about His promises to us, but He is patient and long-suffering before He brings about judgment (2 Pet. 3:9). Yet ultimately God has prepared for absolute justice. There will be no sin committed that He will leave unpunished. Either the punishment will fall on His Son or it will be charged against the sinner, but everyone will ultimately give an account for everything they have done (2 Cor. 5:10).

God is absolutely just, and only He can ensure that justice is fully carried out. If we are impatient and seek revenge, we presume that we are wiser than God, and we reveal a blatant lack of trust that God will do the right thing. Only by trusting God's sovereign wisdom will we be free from our anger and preoccupation toward those who have committed evil.

If we refuse to trust God's justice, we become enslaved to bitterness and anger. We must guard our hearts and trust God to exercise His judgment against those who oppose Him.

What do you need to let go of and turn over to the Lord?

MEN OF VICTORY PRAYING TOGETHER!

Pictured is a powerful moment we had together on Saturday morning with some of the men of Victory Church.  Brother Paul Boyer leads our men's ministry and he challenged our men to rally around the sword and enter the spiritual battle!  Wow!  What an awesome moment!  God is good!

FAITH EVANGELISM BEGINS IN TWO DAYS!

The countdown continues...TWO DAYS and counting ...

FAITH Evangelism begins at Victory Church this Sunday, 21 September at 3:00 PM!

PRACTICE #3: BUILD KINGDOM LEADERS

After observing churches that have effectively used Sunday school in a strategic way, Ken Hemphill shares with us the top ten practices.  Practice #3: "Build Kingdom Leaders."

As pastors and church leaders, we must build Kingdom leaders who are committed to Sunday school strategy as an expression of faithfulness to Christ, His church, and the mission mandate He has given us by...

• Praying for God to call out leaders for kingdom service through Sunday school ministry.
• Implementing a leader-enlistment approach that focuses on helping people respond to their personal call from God rather than an approach that is primarily concerned with filling church or organizational positions.
• Enlisting leaders who themselves are committed to cultivating and multiplying new leaders.
• Devoting major attention to leadership meetings that focus on the mission, on relationships, and on Bible study.
• Providing training that equips leaders for their work and enhances the quality of their leadership.
• Calling out people who will give their lives to evangelizing the lost and who are willing to participate in ongoing evangelism training and multiplication of evangelism leaders.

Feel free to leave any thoughts or comments on this subject; and be sure to check back soon as I post the remaining seven practices.

FAITH EVANGELISM BEGINS IN THREE DAYS!

The countdown continues...THREE DAYS and counting ...

FAITH Evangelism begins at Victory Church this Sunday, 21 September at 3:00 PM!

FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL (CHEERLEADING!)

Are you ready for some football? I mean cheerleading! It's that time of year again. Pictured is my wife Debbie and our daughter Kristen after a Friday night high school football game. It's fun watching her cheer, she has a blast!

Oh yea, I took this pictured and posted this entry from my Blackberry phone!  Pretty cool, huh?  Gotta love technology.

FAITH EVANGELISM BEGINS IN FOUR DAYS!

The countdown continues...four days and counting ...

FAITH Evangelism begins at Victory Church this Sunday, 21 September at 3:00 PM!

FAITH EVANGELISM BEGINS IN FIVE DAYS!

The countdown begins!!  Five days and counting ...

FAITH Evangelism begins at Victory Church this Sunday, 21 September at 3:00 PM!

FAITH EVANGELISM BEGINS SUNDAY, 21 SEPTEMBER!

The countdown begins!!  Six days and counting ...

FAITH Evangelism begins at Victory Church this Sunday, 21 September at 3:00 PM!

IS PREACHING STILL IMPORTANT TODAY?

Pictured on the left is one of my favorite preachers who has influenced me greatly: Dr. Jerry Vines.  Wow!  What a great preacher!

Question: In the year 2008, have we become so sophisticated, so knowledgeable, so technological advanced that actually "preaching" the Word of God in our churches is no longer acceptable?  Well, if we listend to the pundits, we may think that preaching is no longer relevant to the younger generation, but (with my finger pointing toward the crowd) I disagree! 

In Essential Church? Reclaiming a Generation of Dropouts Dr. Thom Rainer and Sam Rainer ask and answer the following question, "Is Preaching Still Important?"

"Yes! Even in today’s hyper-techno-driven conversational-wiki-culture, preaching is of the utmost importance. Of the several church-related or pastor-related issues noted by dropouts, preaching came up several times as a critical issue in retaining college students and young adults."

Click here to read the remaining of the article.

PRACTICE #2: ORGANIZE WITH PURPOSE

After observing churches that have effectively used Sunday school in a strategic way, Ken Hemphill shares with us the top ten practices.  Practice #2: "Organize with Purpose."

As pastors and church leaders, we must organize our Sunday school ministry to accomplish the objectives of leading people to faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and building on-mission Christians by...

• Using the concept of age-graded, open Bible study groups as the primary organizing principle for Bible study groups.
• Providing groups for all ages and generations, including preschool, children, youth, young adults, and adults.
• Relying on sound learner:leader ratios proven to be effective for each age in developing the  age-group organizational structures.       

Feel free to leave any thoughts or comments on this subject; and be sure to check back soon as I post the remaining eight practices.

D6 - FAMILY THEME: MISSIONS...WHAT IS A WITNESS?

Our D6 family theme yesterday at Victory Church was "missions".  Every Sunday school class studied the life of the Apostle Paul in Acts 24-26; we then gathered in the auditorium and I shared a message titled: WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A WITNESS FOR CHRIST?  Below is my sermon outline:

Memory Verse: Acts 24:16 (HCSB) I always do my best to have a clear conscience toward God and men.  

In our Sunday school lesson this week we discovered through the life of Paul that…WHEN GOD CALLS, HE PROVIDES!

1.    God uses unusual circumstances to make missionaries of us. (Acts 24)
2.    Even false accusations may open doors to witness for Christ. (Acts 25)
3.    Your personal testimony is a powerful tool that will create interest in others. (Acts 26)

QUESTION: Have you ever wondered why, when God saved you, he left you on the earth?  If God had wanted to, he could have taken you directly to Heaven the moment you trusted Christ as Savior.  But he didn't, which means that he left you on the earth for a particular purpose. 

William Arnot, a distinguished Scottish pastor in the last century, put the matter this way: "To every true Christian these two things may be said: you have need of Christ and Christ has need of you."  He then adds this thought: "The simple fact that a Christian is on earth and not in heaven, is proof that there is something for him here to do; and if he is not doing it, the neglect shows either that he is not yet a Christian or that he is a Christian who grieves Christ."

Acts 1:8 (HCSB) But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

Now, when Jesus told this to his followers, do you know where they were?  They were in Jerusalem.  So here's the point.  He is saying:

• Jerusalem: I want you to start at home.  I want you to start with the people closest to you, right there in your own city, your own community.
• Judea/Samaria: That's like the county next door, and Samaritans happen to be different culturally and different racially.  So He said, “I want you to go to people nearby, but they are different from you.”
• Ends of the earth: I want you to go reach everybody else. 

Acts 1:8 emphasizes two things we need to know: 1) The Holy Spirit empowers disciples, and 2) Spirit-filled disciples witness about Jesus around the world.

• Our greatest need today is not for political power but for the power of the Holy Spirit.
• Political power can change leaders but it can't change hearts. 
• Political power can win an election but it can't save a life. 
• Political power can pass righteous laws—or repeal unrighteous ones—but it can't make men righteous. 
• Political power cannot change the way people think because it touches the outside of life. 
• Only the Holy Spirit can change hearts, restore families and save an entire nation from destruction.

Jesus said, "You will be my witnesses."  What did he mean?  In its basic sense it means to declare the truth to another person.  What is a witness?  A witness is somebody who just tells what he knows, and what he has experienced or what has happened to them.

• He doesn't say, “You will be my defense attorney.” 
• He doesn't say, “You will be my prosecutor.” 
• He doesn’t say, “You will be my salesman.” 
• All God wants you to do is He wants you to be a witness. 

1. A WITNESS TELLS WHAT HE KNOWS!

PRACTICE #1: COMMIT TO THE STRATEGY

After observing churches that have effectively used Sunday school in a strategic way, Ken Hemphill shares with us the top ten practices.  Practice #1: "Commit to the Strategy!"

As pastors and church leaders, we must commit to Sunday school as the foundational strategy in our church for doing the work of the Great Commission.

Below are some suggestions:

• We must develop an annual plan that supports the church's thrust to lead people to faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and build on-mission Christians.
• We must include as key elements of the plan ongoing and short-term open Bible study groups and additional Bible study events, such as Vacation Bible School, that focus on foundational evangelism and foundational discipleship.
• We must provide the best possible financial support to implement the strategic plans.
• We must implement the plan through specific monthly and weekly actions.

Feel free to leave any thoughts or comments on this subject; and be sure to check back soon as I post the remaining nine practices.

SELF-DISCIPLINE: A VIRTUE FOR SUCCESSFUL LEADERS

This week I was reading in 1 Corinthians chapter nine and verses 24-27 jumped off the page once again for me:

"Do you not know that the runners in a stadium all race, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything. However, they do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one. Therefore I do not run like one who runs aimlessly, or box like one who beats the air. Instead, I discipline my body and bring it under strict control, so that after preaching to others, I myself will not be disqualified."

The Apostle Paul understood the importance of discipline.  In this passage he emphasized that as followers of Christ our spiritual lives form the core of our character.  As we spend time in the disciplines of the spirit, we're to be like runners or boxers.  During the course of a race, runners do not stagger from one lane to another.  They rivet their attention on the finish line and run a disciplined race toward it.  So also boxers train with purpose so the can absorb powerful blows without falling.  They build up their physical stamina so that their legs will hold out for the final rounds.

Paul trained for his daily spiritual journey like a world-class athlete.  Why?  Because he wanted to have the self-control to finish the race without being disqualified.  Godly leaders need to cultivate this same kind of spiritual fitness.  Doing so can and will affect others areas of leadership life - how we treat others, where we go for answers to major decisions, and the skills we use in accomplishing our daily  tasks.

If you want to be an effective leader, identify the habits you need to build into your life so you can lead with diligence - habits such as physical fitness, balance between work and home, financial  and personal accountability, proactivity in workplace, etc.  Strap on your shoes and get going.  Disciplined habits will give you the momentum you need to not only move forward, but also to run your earthly race with strength and purpose. 

Read I Corinthians 9:24-27 again to see how this amazing man disciplined his life so magnificently that he became God's champion!

10 BEST PRACTICES OF SUNDAY SCHOOL

Over the last year the Lord has really be dealing with me concerning the ministry of Sunday school.  Therefore, at Victory Church we have rediscovered and reimplemented the ministry of Sunday school.  During the next several weeks I will be sharing with you some of the pros and cons of Sunday school.  I am currently reading a book titled Ten Best Practices To Make Your Sunday School Work by Ken Hemphill and Bill Taylor.

In this first post I will introduce you to the the "10 Best Practices of Sunday School" as suggested in the book, then I will share them with you in individual posts.

1. Commit to the Strategy
2. Organize with Purpose
3. Build Kingdom Leaders
4. Develop Soul Winners
5. Win the Lost
6. Assimilate People
7. Partner with Families
8. Teach to Transform
9. Mobilize for Ministry
10. Multiply Leaders and Units

How is Sunday school working for you in your church?  Please feel free to leave your comments, I'm  interested in how things are going in your Sunday school. 

Are you a Sunday school teacher?  If so, please give me some feedback on how Sunday school is working for you!

Are you a student (any age) in Sunday school? If so, please leave your comments as well!

PERFORMANCE VS. WORSHIP LEADING

I will be the first to admit there is a "fine line" between performance and true worship as we stand before our congregation on Sunday mornings.  Paul Baloche is an awesome worship leader and he explains this pretty well.

Also, Pastor Travis Penn of Calvary Free Will Baptist Church has an interesting post on his blog "The Sweetest Frame" concerning songs sung in a worship set, check it out by clicking here.

Enjoy the video on "Performance vs. Worship Leading.

ATTENTION D6 FAMILIES - SIGN UP NOW FOR "SPLINK!"

A Splink is a SIMPLE way to LINK your family together spiritually.

It’s a FREE weekly email packed with ideas to help connect your family. Splinks are creative ways of interacting with your children with family devotional starters and ideas for family time. Splinks can also help you use teachable moments to pass along spiritual truths and life lessons while making memories or just having fun together. No matter where you are, it can always be time for a Splink!

Sign up now to have the weekly Splink emailed straight into your inbox. What are you waiting for? Get Splinking!

HOW GOOD OF A JOB ARE YOU DOING AT KICKING YOUR BALL?

Below is a video I used in our D6 Sunday School Teachers Training Seminar last evening. (It's in Japanese, but I think you will get the point!)

This is an example of how we DO NOT want to kink the ball in our Sunday school ministry. I shared how many churches show up every Sunday and just go through the motions, trying to "kick the ball." I then shared how that is NOT what we desire to do in the one hour we have to impact our student's life with God's Word.

There are many lessons to be seen in this video. Enjoy! Feel free to leave a comment; I'm interested in your thoughts.

VICTORY CHURCH "D6" TRAINING SEMINAR

Last night here at the Victory Church offices we had our first "D6" Sunday school teacher training seminar.  I was very encouraged with the attendance and the training our Sunday school teachers received.

We are strengthening the discipleship ministry here at Victory Church through our Sunday school.  Our goal for discipleship is to create an environment where families can talk about God's Word throughout the week.  In other words, we are strategically building D6 families at Victory!

Watch the video below to get a better understanding of what D6 is all about.

 

FIRST WEEKEND @ FREE WILL BAPTIST BIBLE COLLEGE

This is Tyler's first weekend at Free Will Baptist Bible College.  We just got out of the Sunday morning worship service and decided to take a few pictures around the campus.  We then went to lunch and afterward brought him back to the campus to say good-bye.  Wow, that was hard!

Anyway, after touching base with him yesterday, he seems to have settled in well.  Please keep him and his mother in your prayers!

Below are some pictures from the weekend.

TYLER MOVING INTO HIS DORM ROOM AT FWBBC

Yesterday eas an exciting day for Tyler.  He is pictured here moving into his dorm room at Free Will Baptist Bible College.  You can tell from the smile on his face he is already enjoying his new found freedom.  Do you know what he likes the best about his room?  The air conditioner!  His room has a great A/C and it is ice cold in there!  He loves it.

MY SON TYLER LEAVES FOR COLLEGE

Wow!  It's hard to believe that my son, Tyler, is 18 and going off to college this weekend.  My, how quickly the years have passed!  It seems like yesterday that Debbie and I were in the hospital room giving birth to Tyler, and I can remember laying back in a recliner with him lying on my chest. (Pause -  while I brush away a tear!)

Well, this is one of the biggest weekends of our lives - our son moves out of our house and into his own dorm room at Free Will Baptist Bible College in Nashville, TN.

Congratulations Tyler!  We are proud of you and we love you very much! 

BIBLE ZINGERS

Here are several "zingers" about the Bible that I thought you may enjoy!  Let these soak in.

• Not all biblical promises carry an unconditional guarantee.

• God's Word is like a highway sign.  You don't have to pay any attention to it if you don't care what happens to you.
• The value of the Bible is not knowing it, but obeying it.
• Love for the Author of the Bible is the best preparation for the Bible.
• Knowing the Scripture is one thing; knowing the Author is another.
• When you study the Scriptures "hit or miss," you're likely to miss more than you hit.
• A Bible in hand is worth two on the shelf.
• Keep your Bible open and you will not find the door to heaven closed.
• The Bible is a telescope; it is not to look at, but to look through.
• It is good to mark your Bible, but it is better to let your Bible mark you.
• Knowing the Bible is of little benefit unless you practice it.
• Should all the people dust off their Bibles, we would have one of the greatest dust storms of all time.
• The best way for Christians to grow is to eat the Bread of Life. 
• Because there is dust on your Bible does not mean it is dry.
• To master the Bible, the Bible must master you.Knowing the living Word is the key to understanding the written Word.
• The Bible should more than inform us—it should transform us.
• The Bible is not only the world's best-seller—it's man's best buy.
• The Bible was not written to teach science, but the Bible is scientifically correct.
• The Bible is the only book whose Author is always present when it is read.
• Carrying your Bible will never take the place of reading it.The Bible doesn't need to be rewritten—just reread.
• Don't criticize the Bible—let it criticize you!Trying to do away with the truth of the Bible is like trying to mop the ocean dry with a sponge.
• Too many study their neighbor's faults more closely than their Bible.
• The devil is not afraid of a dust-covered Bible.
• Some people have memorized the Scriptures without practicing them.A Bible that has frayed edges usually has an owner that doesn't.The best thing to do with the Bible is to know it in the head, stow it in the heart, sow it in the world, and show it in the life.

SADDLEBACK CIVIL FORUM (PART 4) Pastor Rick Warren and Senator John McCain

SADDLEBACK CIVIL FORUM (PART 3) Pastor Rick Warren and Senator John McCain

SADDLEBACK CIVIL FORUM (PART 2) Pastor Rick Warren and Senator Barack Obama

SADDLEBACK CIVIL FORUM (PART 1) Pastor Rick Warren and Senator Barack Obama

COMMITMENT IN DISCIPLESHIP? Uh, yeah!

At Victory last week we studied from Luke 14:25-35 and our bible study theme was "commitment."  It seems to me that in our day there are many people "following" Christ, but I believe few are really committed! 

In our CLEAR curriculum the transition read like this:

"In the context of the selected Scripture we find a multitude of people following Christ.  Most leaders would be greatly satisfied that people were actually following them.  But Jesus is no ordinary leader. He is not interested in fluffy followers or curious crowds.  He wants devoted disciples. What he now declares will certainly clear the crowd."

Listed are the three necessities for committed discipleship:

1. Love the Lord supremely (Luke 14:25-26)
2. Count the costs carefully (Luke 14:27-32)
3. Relinquish your resources sacrificially (Luke 14:33)

ZINGERS FROM ZIG

Here are a few "Zingers from Zig" about life and death I just read.  If you choose, you can subscribe to Zig Ziglar's newsletter - just click here.  Enjoy the zingers!

• Those who are prepared to die are the most prepared to live.
• Death is the last chapter of time but the first chapter of eternity.
• You cannot decide when or where you will die, but you can decide how you will live.
• Everyone should fear death until he has something that will live on after his death.
• What we weave in time we will wear in eternity.

HOW WILL THE WORLD KNOW HIM?

John 13:34-35 (HCSB) “I give you a new commandment: love one another. Just as I have loved you, you must also love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Ephesians 4:32 (HCSB) "And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ."

The Book of Ephesians describes the behavior that ought to characterize Christians as they relate to one another. Our actions ought to be permeated with kindness. Kindness is love expressed in practical ways; it is putting the needs of others before our own. It is intentionally considering ways to meet other people's needs.

Being tenderhearted means that we are keenly sensitive to the feelings of others. When a fellow Christian experiences sorrow, we grieve also (1 Cor. 12:26). When another believer is joyful, we, too, rejoice. Being tenderhearted means showing compassion toward those around us.  In other words, we get to the point where we understand that life is not about ME!

We show forgiveness because we, too, fall short of God's ideal. Knowing that God has graciously saved us from destruction motivates us to forgive others when they offend us. Often we are less patient with our fellow Christians than we are with nonbelievers. We expect more of Christians, and we feel betrayed when they fail us. When this happens, we need to look closely at the cross and remember the forgiveness we received there. We must set aside the self-centered attitude that leads to impatience and criticism of others.

Jesus did not say that the world will know Him by our miracles, by our grand testimonies, or by our vast Bible knowledge. The world will know Him by the love that Christians show to one another (John 13:35).  I heard the late Dr. Adrian Rogers say this morning on his radio broadcast that "Christians are the only people he knows that crucify the living, worship the dead, and shoot off the wounded."  Lord, help us!

Are you constantly in conflict with others? Ask God to give you kindness, a tender heart, and a forgiving spirit. As you allow the Spirit to build these qualities into you, your life will be a blessing to others around you.

SO, WHAT IS D6?

Most parents want to be involved in the spiritual development of their kids' lives.  They just don’t know where to begin. Parents are involved in sports, homework and hygiene, but many parents find it challenging to connect with their children when it comes to their faith.

Unfortunately, many people rely on the pastor, Sunday school teacher, or youth pastor to be the primary spiritual influence for our kids. The problem is we only spend, at most, four hours a week at church. What about the other 164 hours?

D6 tells us this is the primary job and responsibility for dads and moms.

D6 stands for Deuteronomy 6:5-7 which commands dads and moms to take everyday opportunities to impress God’s Word upon the hearts of their children. D6 is foundational to raising spiritual champions for Christ.

At Victory Church we are intentionally in the process of equipping parents to be their kids spiritual leaders.  Join us this Sunday at 9:30 to begin your D6 experience!  Click here to visit the D6 website.

SPLINK - LINKING THE FAMILY TOGETHER SPIRITUALLY

A Splink is a SIMPLE way to LINK your family together spiritually.

It’s a FREE weekly email packed with ideas to help connect your family. Splinks are creative ways of interacting with your children with family devotional starters and ideas for family time. Splinks can also help you use teachable moments to pass along spiritual truths and life lessons while making memories or just having fun together. No matter where you are, it can always be time for a Splink!

Sign up now to have the weekly Splink emailed straight into your inbox. What are you waiting for? Get Splinking!

SEVEN TESTS FOR ASSURANCE OF SALVATION

At Victory Church we use the "CLEAR" curriculum published by Randall House. Our lesson Sunday was on the "Kingdom of God" from Luke 13:22-30.

Here is a quick overview of the lesson:

1. There are Stringent Requirements.
2. There is a Sovereign Ruler.
3. There is a Special Relationship.
4. There will be Surprising Revelations.

In the "application" portion of the lesson there was a list of "Seven Tests for Assurance of Salvation" from the book of First John. Listed below are the seven tests. Go ahead, examine yourself!

1. Desire for holiness (1:6; 2:29; 3:1-9)
2. Repentance over sin (1:8-9)
3. Desire to obey (2:3-6; 5:3, 18)
4. Rejection of the world (2:15-17)
5. Love for God (4:7-12, 19)
6. Love for others (4:19-21; 3:14, 17, 18)
7. Acceptance of Christ (3:23; 5:11-13)

Review the questions on the assurance of salvation and rank yourself on each "test" on a scale of 1-10.

BECOMING A "D6" CHURCH AT VICTORY

I am very excited about the "D6 Family" curriculum provided by Randall House Publications.� Randall House is a Free Will Baptist publishing house and CEO Ron Hunter is doing a great job leading this organization into the 21st century.

We at Victory Church are implementing D6 into our discipleship ministry.� I am very excited about how this is going to assist in growing our families spiritually.

What exactly is D6?� Click here to learn more.

DR. BOBBY WELCH PREACHES AT FWB CONVENTION

Dr. Bobby Welch, Founder of FAITH evangelism strategy, preached at our FWB National Convention - Pastors/Laypersons meeting.

Dr. Welch preached two sessions and both were very dynamic!  He preached two messages on the reality of Hell and why we should be involved in evangelism. 

I am pictured with him here between the two sermons.  I was sitting on about the fifth row and immediately after Bro. Bobby's message, I jumped up on the platform and spoke with him.  He gave me some encouraging words of advice. 

Thanks Bro. Bobby for your passion for souls! 

WE ARE MARSHALL!

While traveling to our Free Will Baptist National Convention in Charleston, WV., Debbie and I passed through Hunington which is the home of Marshall University.

You may have seen the movie "We Are Marshall" which was released in December 2006.  The movie is a documentary of the tragic November 14, 1970 play crash of the Marshall football team, coaches, staff, and others. 

Below are a few pictures of the memorial the university has made in remembrance of those who lost their lives.  The fountain stops flowing every November 14th.  Also, there is a memorial at the football stadium.

 

LAST SUNDAY SERVICE IN MASCOUTAH

This Sunday marks the last Sunday we will be worshiping in Mascoutah.  If I can be personally honest with you, I'm somewhat torn and I have mixed emotions. 

First of all, there is a side of me that is saddened.  I have been preaching and ministering in Mascoutah since March 1999.  My family and I moved here from North Carolina to start Victory Church.  We have literally poured our lives into this community, but as Jabez prayed, God has "enlarged our boundaries" and it is time to move.

Secondly, there is a side of me that is very excited about what the Lord is doing with our ministry.  It has always been a part of my vision to impact the Metro-East of St. Louis for Christ.  Moving our worship service to Moye Elementary School in O'Fallon will position us to do just that, for which I'm am thrilled.

Therefore, if you would like to worship with us at Victory Church in Mascoutah, then this is the Sunday to come to the Mascoutah Middle School, because we are leaving!

See you Sunday!  Sunday school begins at 9:30 AM and worship is at 10:30 AM.

GIODANO'S CHICAGO STYLE PIZZA!

While visiting the Chicago area the Victory Leadership Team and I decided to take in some "Chicago-style" pizza. 

Pictured is one of four pizza's we ordered.  This is the "special" with sausage, onions, and green peppers.  Wow!  That was the most amazing pizza I have ever eaten!  I loved it!

If you are in Oswego, Illinois be sure to check out Giodano's of Oswego. Thanks Pastor David Womack for the recommendation!

I think I would have to agree with this "Eleventh Commandment!"

Here is Eli working his way through his slice pizza!  He had a blast!  Eli is the son of our Assistant Pastor, Daniel and Beverly Renfro.

This picture says it all - Chicago style pizza is all about the cheese.  You gotta love it!

VICTORY LEADERSHIP TEAM TRAVELS TO TANNER TRAILS COMMUNITY CHURCH

Pictured above is the Victory Church Leadership Team.  This weekend after our Sunday morning worship service went to Tanner Trails Community Church in North Aurora, IL to view their new facility.  Tanner Trails has built a beautiful new facility.  We are in the process of planning, dreaming, and envisioning what type of facility we would like to build.

Pastor David Womack and his wife Teresa (pictured on right)  were terrific host.  Thanks guys for taking time out of your schedule to meet with us!

 

Here are our wives taking a much needed break!

Tanner Trails has a wildlife reservation directly beside their property with walking trails.  My wife Debbie (on left), by daughter Kristen (middle),and Beverly (on right) decided to all go for a walk with Haley (Beverly's baby daughter).  What a beautiful day for walking!

PAUL BOYER SURRENDERS TO THE GOSPEL MINISTRY!

Last night Paul Boyer, currently a deacon at Victory Church and our men's ministry leader, shared with our leadership team that the Lord had called him into the ministry as a Free Will Baptist Minister!

Pictured with Paul is his wife of 32 years, Mayron.  Way to go guys, we are very proud of you both!

Pictured below is the Victory Leadership Team.  These guys and gals are awesome!

VICTORY IN THE PARK FOR SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICE

Today we at Victory Church had our morning worship service at Rock Springs Park in O'Fallon.  The park borders the property we are purchasing for our new church.  It was a beautiful morning as we sat and looked at the tree line of our new home.

I preached a message from Joshua chapter 14 on the subject of Caleb's commitment.  Below is my sermon outline:

1.  Caleb was committed to seeking the inheritance of God (Joshua 14:6-9).

2.  Caleb was committed to facing the enemies who stood opposed to the Promised Land (Joshua 14:10-13).

3.  Caleb was committed to following the Lord with all his heart (Joshua 14:14-15). 

For us to possess the land God has for us, we must have the spirit and commitment of Caleb.

Look on the right side of the blog for a picture album of our morning service in the park.

WEIGHT ROOM CONVERTED TO "PS3 - MADDEN '08" ROOM

After a long day of shopping at Mall of America, then after taking in a Twins game, Tyler and Tyler (Cannon on left - Lauderdale on right) feverishly looked for a place to play Madden Football '08 on their PS3.  Well, they found it - the workout room in the hotel!

These boys sat up that night, long after we all went to bed, and played Madden '08 until about 3 AM!

These two were hilarious!  They had fun.