Pastor Eric Schall

Making an Impact One Life at a Time

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 20:09:00 +0000

Today I went and visited a beautiful baby boy named Noe and his very tired momma, Gladia. Noe was born around 2 am this morning and is an 8 lb. boy with a full head of hair and 2 teeth already! Gladia called me around 11:30 a.m. to share the happy news with me.

So why am I blogging about this? Well, I barely know this family. You see I am kind of a Chipotle addict. I am even a member of the invitation-only Farm Team (google it!) Anyway, wherever I go I talk to people. If I am a regular somewhere I remember people's stories and ask them about events from their lives. As a result people can sense that I see them as more than an employee in a service industry. They can sense when value is being added to them in a genuine way. So at Chipotle I have gotten to know a few of the employees as well as the General Manager. There are two sweet ladies there that always shout out an "hola!" to me. Now my Spanish is pretty much limited to ordering my favorite foods and what not to put on it (lettuce, tomato, sour cream...yuk!) But I try to use this limited Spanish when they are there knowing they appreciate hearing their own language. (Always thought they were Mexicans, but just learn one is from Honduras and the other from El Salvador)

A few months ago when Gladia told me she was pregnant I asked in the process of a conversation if she knew the sex and name of the baby yet. She told me about her boy named Noe (No-ee), and I told her I was going to start praying for her and for Noe. She gave me a hug and told me she loved me. ...I was caught totally off guard and uttered an awkward, "love you too" while wondering what my wife would think of this story. A few weeks later while strapping on the Chipotle feed bag and reading my book, Gladia walked up and handing an invitation to her upcoming baby shower. Now, I hate those things. They are usually way girly and I the very few that I have been to, I have wanted to be anywhere but there. But I knew I would be going. I got to meet her husband and family as well as a lot of friends and family as well as other Chipotle employees outside of the restaurant setting.

So what is the "why" behind all this? Very simple. As a Christian we are called to be salt and light...everywhere. In the workplace, in the marketplace and even in Chipotle. We are to be not only pointing people to Jesus, but also bringing the Kingdom of God with us and establishing it wherever we are. We are to be agents of the Kingdom of God. It is the way that the Church has spread across the globe for 2000 years.

So today I got to pray with Claudia and pray the Lord's blessing on Noe's young life. How did this opportunity come about? By loving people, by being available. It's not as hard as people make it out to be and you just might get to eat some yummy food along the way.

Guest Blogger: Josiah Schall (my 10 yr old son)

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Thu, 07 Jun 2012 19:06:00 +0000

I found this written on my son's iPod Touch in the 'Notes' app. He is 10 years old and says he wants to be a pastor when he grows up. Though that is entirely up to the Lord as to whether or not He will 'call' my son into vocational ministry, he certainly has a great heart and desire! He says he reads this when he is going through "hard times."

Perhaps it would be a blessing to you too:

"Jesus. He rules the earth. No matter what you do he still loves you. He is the one and only savior and one and only God. Because he rules the earth. He rules the earth. Jesus saves us and cares for us. Jesus rules everyone and everything and loves everyone and everything. Jesus is the master of everything. Jesus is our savior and power he gives us strength through hard times and heals us when we are ill. Jesus is real and Jesus watches over us. Jesus is just truly amazing and powerful. If you make a mistake ask for forgiveness and Jesus forgives. Jesus created us like a potter makes pots Jesus is the potter we are the clay. Jesus protects us. Since we are Jesus' creations he loves us no matter what."

3 Stages of Growth - Part II

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 11:00:00 +0000

In 1 John 2:12-14 you see John writing to three different types of people, Children, Adolescents, Adults, but it's not about age it's about maturity and experience in Christ.

Hopefully all of you have wonderful childhood memories to hang onto. Hopefully these formative years were ones in which you experienced love, affirmation, discipline and all the things necessary to growing into a healthy well-adjusted individual.

Childhood is wonderful, but it's straight up weird if a teenager still acts like a baby. Let's take the image to the extreme...

"What is wrong with this guy's parents?!?!" we would all shout.

In spiritual growth the childhood years are wonderful, but if we read our Bibles (I know...crazy, right!?!) we see that it is the Lord's expectation for us to grow, to mature, to become more and more like Him.

Teens often think their parents are mean because they make them do things they don't want to do. Make them engage in situations that make them uncomfortable. Why do parents do this? Why does the Lord do this to us?

Because we are meant for more than we are. We are meant to be overcomers. (See 1 John 5:4; Romans 8:37) And the only way we learn to be overcomers is to...wait for it...overcome difficult (and even seemingly impossible) situations. If we do not learn to live as overcomers in our adolescence, it is much more difficult (but not impossible) to learn this character trait later on.

There are two ways areas in which we must learn to overcome. Ask the Lord to help you in these two areas. To live as an overcomer of self (sinful desires) (see 1 Corinthians 9:27), and to live as an overcomer of the World (this present evil age, world system, principalities and powers) (See 1 John 5:4; Ephesians 6:10-19)

To Be Continued...

Chicken Bones, Tea Leaves and the Spirit of God

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Thu, 31 May 2012 19:23:00 +0000

Ever been in a situation where you are looking for direction from God? Perhaps it is a pressing situation where the clock is ticking and decisions must be made...now! As a Spirit-filled Christian I am continually looking for not only God's direction, but also for Him to break though into my life in very real and tangible ways. It is a great joy of mine to look back and see how the Lord has led me, provided for me and used me. However, if I am honest in my looking back, those times were filled with doubt, uncertainty and fear. You see God never showed up exactly how or when I wanted Him to. And in those times I was constantly searching for His will so that I might live accordingly.

So here's the thing. It is so tempting during these times (I am in one of those times again) to get caught up in looking for "signs." Because of fear, timeline pressures, expectations of others, etc. Christians can drift toward superstition. Certainly God uses signs to communicate to us, but that is not His main voice. Signs usually only serve as a CONFIRMATION of what He has already spoken. BUT, it is difficult during transitions times.

As my wife and I have been praying about different churches that we have had conversations about regarding me coming to pastor, in each case we saw different "signs." Although we were never sure what they meant exactly. As I was talking to one church in Ogden, UT and I saw a man jogging and on the back of his shirt in big orange letters was the word "OGDEN." I thought...well this must be it! It wasn't. If I had been paying attention in my heart I would have known. Other times there have been similar "signs," but something was always absent internally. It can be a confusing and frustrating time.

So where do we learn how to discern God's will? The same way we learn anything about God; we turn to His Word. In His Word, we see the Holy Spirit taking the lead.

Example:
Ever notice that Judas' replacement was chosen kind of OT style in Acts 1, but after Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit to dwell in believers there is never again any mention of "casting of lots?"

Some people look at times of delay or things not working out smoothly as having missed God. How ridiculous! Again we look at God's Word. Did things always work out "smoothly" in the life and ministry of Jesus? How about the Disciples and the early church? Weren't most of them killed in a gruesome way according to Church history? What about the expansion of the Kingdom of God through the centuries? Smooth sailing? Hardly. Fact is that there will be gaps, struggles, flesh issues that are part of the mix in following Jesus where He leads.

So put the chicken bones, tea leaves, and fortune cookies away.
In all seriousness don't be an 'dumb donkey' and start opening up your spirit to the demonic by consulting horoscopes, tarot, or so-called psychics.

Trust in the Lord. (Prov. 3:5-6) Walk in His Spirit. (Gal. 5:25) Live in His love and provision for you. (Matt 6) He will lead you as He has led my family and I so faithfully all these years.

3 Stages of Growth - Part I

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Wed, 30 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

There are three stages of growth in the Christian's life. Where are you? We read in 1 John:

“I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for his name’s sake. I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, children, because you know the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one." 1 John 2:12-14

You see three different types of people that John is writing to. God has something to say to you at every stage of growth in your life. In other words you never outgrow your need for His voice.

Do you remember when you first experienced God? I'm not talking about religious education, but when you first felt the touch of Almighty God. That time when you KNEW that your sins were forgiven and that you were made brand new! (2 Corinthians 5:17)

I remember in college when I experienced God in a world-shaking way. When I finally surrendered all of myself to Him and stopped playing games. The joy was overwhelming! I would walk around giggling like a freak show. God's Word had come alive to me as I read it. What was so wonderful? As John says "because you know the Father." To feel Him so near, to experience His Spirit, to have my eyes opened as if for the very first time.

Perhaps the cares of this life have drowned out the voice of His Spirit. Perhaps the worries of this world have sucked out your joy. Spend some time today remembering what it is like to be a 'child' in His arms again. For as much spiritual growth as we may experience, we should never truly grow beyond being able to experience the joy of being a child of the Father.

To be continued...

Gay Marriage

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Thu, 10 May 2012 12:56:00 +0000

I thought it relevant to repost this message I did back in 2009. I've been told it is a fair and thoughtful look at the subject. Perhaps you are confused or just don't know what to say about everything that is happening. This might help.

Here is a 10 minute clip of "Speaking to the Gay Marriage Agenda". For the whole message you can watch here

Value Unchanged

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:41:00 +0000

I found this penny today in a garbage disposal in an old house. When I reached in (after turning the breaker off!) and pulled it out I immediately recognized what it was and its value. Though the image that it bears is barely discernible, its value remains unchanged. It must have been in the disposal for years; it's all chewed up corroded and worn down. And yet...its value is the same. I could take it to the bank and deposit it as money.

The point? You may have been through some things. You may have been thrown away by others and forgotten. You may be all chewed up and worn down by choices you have made. BUT you're value remains UNCHANGED to God. In Romans it says that while we were still broken by our sin (worn down, thrown away, corrupted), Jesus died for us because our value to Him remained UNCHANGED. Though we surely look as bad or worse as this penny we still bear His image as worn and faded as that may be. Because of His love and value for us, He paid the ultimate price for us because we are the most precious thing in the Universe...much more than a penny. Because of this we don't have to stay as we are. When we bring our broken, chipped and worn down selves to Him we are transformed and made new. His image is freshly places in and on us. We are made whole and complete in Him...a new creation. But through it all, our value remains the same...worth the highest price

"Love" & "Justice"

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:03:00 +0000

I love young people. I was a full-time youth pastor for over ten years working with the teens and college-aged. I love it when their heart awakens with passion and a cause. There's nothing like it when a young person realizes they can make a difference in this messed up world because of Christ! But with that comes such a need for godly leaders who will mentor them. I'm not talking about someone who will snuff out there fire and make them act more "adult." Ugh! I've seen some "leaders" who operate that way. If anything most adults I know need to learn from our young people and wake up and DO SOMETHING!

...but I digress.

What concerns me recently is definition. (No, I'm not trying to turn my kegger into a six-pack) I'm talking about definition of powerful words that people rally behind. Words like "Love" and "Justice." Wonderful words because they convey such wonderful ideas and imagery. But because of the times we are living in, these words like most others are not anchored to anything real, they just float around and occasionally bump into something solid. I don't want to make this a super-long post (because you won't read it!). But suffice it to say that my concern lies in two areas related to the upcoming generation. One, many are fatherless. Two, many are biblically illiterate and/or have had their understanding of the bible twisted by false teachers.

The modern definition of love is so warped and diluted that it is completely unrecognizable to most. We love our friends. We also love pizza. We love Spring. We made love to a girl we met last night. We fell in love last month, but we can't stand them. See the problem?? What about "Justice?" When someone uses the word justice today they are most of the time saying it is synonymous with the word "fair." It is not justice to see people in this world have more than they need, while others struggle. (as if money or "stuff" fixes everything in this world and makes people complete) "I was wronged and I demand justice!" (vengeance. I want to get back at them to make it even.)

No where in their thinking it seems is the biblical idea of these two terms. Only shadows and bits are revealed, but never the fullness of both of those noble words. For example it is clear that the biblical idea of love contains way more than warm fuzzy feelings. That it is more than lust, desire, attraction, affection. It contains things like sacrifice, confrontation, discipline (punishment is the non-pc word), commitment beyond feeling. Love even contains breaking of relationship as well as initiating it. (1 Cor 5:5; 1 Tim 1:20). My point is that it is so much deeper than we know and the only way we know true love as God designed is through an honest reading of His Word and through seeing godly examples in our lives. No one has more power to display this than a dad. It is imperfect of course, but even if a poor reflection it still reflects the perfect to some degree. When men are refusing to stand up and be counted, refusing to undertake the responsibility for their actions and commitments and instead just leave, they inflict the deepest wounds upon children that they can.

What about Justice? Anyone who grew up with a dad knows that sometimes things were the way they were because Dad said so. Not only was he conveying authority in establishing what is right and wrong, but it was often the only answer suitable, because we weren't at a place as a child where we could understand the complexity of the situation. Similarly what is "Just" is connected to the One who created all things and is Holy, and there are certain things He gets to say are right and wrong and we may not get an explanation. Justice has to do with what is righteous, and there is only one that is righteous.

Today we can twist everything. We can make it ok for someone to commit evil because they had a troubled childhood. We can make it ok to murder babies, because of legal rights of women. We can it ok to have sex with whoever or whatever we want and call it whatever we want because it makes us feel good. The most prevalent and current example of misguided sense of love and justice is found in the gay marriage agenda. This generation is passionate about this because they see it as a love (feeling) and justice (fairness) issue. Nowhere is there an understanding of what sin does to people presently or eternally. Nowhere is there an understanding of honoring God and doing things His way even if it is simply because He said so.

The younger generation is turning away God as He has revealed Himself and instead making up their own God from bits and pieces, from culture, from a wounded child's perspective because there is no foundation, no anchor.

Chase them. Love them. They're worth it.

I wonder...about shame

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:00:00 +0000

I've been wondering lately. Sin produces shame in people...it just does. When we sin we are rebelling against God, our created purpose and all that is good. In Christ I can go to the Lord and confess my sin and He takes my shame upon Himself. It is why the Son of God allowed Himself to be beaten and marched baked through the streets of Jerusalem. He was taking our place; taking our shame. And it wasn't just 2000 years ago. He is still taking people's shame and giving them His holiness instead (what a trade!) So I've been wondering about this shame. I know it's there in people, but it doesn't seem like it these days does it? So what happens to this shame in people apart from Christ? I think people are trying all kinds of things to deal with it. How many prescriptions are written due to suppressed shame? (record numbers of anti-depressants each year.) How many are trying to redefine society through rewriting our laws due to what they perceive as the source of the shame they feel? How many good deeds or religious acts are being done out of some misguided belief in a Karma-like system in the universe? I see people persisting in some sort of sense of self-reliance, self-sufficiency trying to deal with the sin problem that only Jesus Christ can free them from. The whole time Jesus keeps repeating, "come unto me you who weary and I will give you rest." The invitation to trade our burden of shame for His life and freedom... I am so glad I made that choice years ago and continue to make that choice everyday. How about you? Aren't you tired of fighting? Time does not erase the stain of sin. Good or religious deeds do not erase or balance out sin. It took the blood of Jesus, the Son of God. He gives us the gift of being able to come to Him and fess up (confess) and by His power to turn away from patterns of sin (repentance). Be free. Be clean. Come into the light.

I Need to TESTIFYYYYY!

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 16:33:00 +0000

So if you know me, you know that I try to live consistently what I believe and preach. One of those things is trusting God no matter what...particularly in the area of finances. (Because if there's one area that competes with God for our trust it is our trust and dependence upon money) As such I am a big believer in tithing. Long before I was in ministry I gave my tithe (10%) of my (gross) income to the Lord via my local church. I also have always given extra in offerings for special projects, guest speakers, missions giving, etc. Since getting married Susi and I have given anywhere from 25-40% of our income to the Kingdom of God (again...through our local church as is Biblical) God has invited us into a covenant relationship with Him and invites us to test Him in the area of money. (Read Malachi 3)

Anywayyyyy, I resigned from my position as Lead Pastor back in the beginning of October at the prompting of the Holy Spirit, plus we face my wife's impending layoff of her job. (details here) So my salary and income ceased mid-October. Since then the only income I have had has been from a few speaking invitations at other churches and working at UPS in December (part-time for minimum wage). All of that totaling about 15% of of my previous income while factoring in the extra money needed for Christmas gifts, travel and other holiday related expenses. We have always lived a very non-extravagant lifestyle and also lived within our means. We have not made many cuts in lifestyle living since my resignation, because there weren't a whole lot of areas to cut.

The testimony part comes in the fact that since my resignation, not only has our savings remain untouched, but every time I go to pay the our tithes and the bills (in that order) I notice our checking account balance keeps INCREASING!

I wonder what would happen if we as the Church (and as a nation!) began trusting God and obeying Him again in the area of finances...

The point in all this is not the FORMULA of tithing, but rather the loving God behind the promises. He is our Father and will provide for us as we seek Him and His Kingdom first in our lives. But don't take my word for it...(http://bible.us/Matt6.19-34.NIV and http://bible.us/Mal3.6-12.NIV)

““Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal."

““No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. " (Matthew 6:19, 24–34, NIV)

The Christmas story if Facebook would have been around...

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 02:29:00 +0000

The Christmas story if Facebook would have been around...

Get Over Yourself and GO TO CHURCH!

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000

Feeling a little feisty due to two recent events. One, I read an article in the paper this morning about a 16 year old teen who is charged with murder via Craigslist. I won't go into the details of the case, but this "alleged" (so sick of that term) killer wrote a letter to his dad that was in the paper and it said "There's a chance I might be out by the time I'm 42,' the boy wrote. 'I know there is no way in hell that any kind of God would do that to me." Seriously?? People are so messed up and confused right now.

Secondly, I started working for UPS for the month of December while I am interviewing with churches. (the 4am-9am shift...UGH!) I spent the majority of the other night (morning??) trying to talk to a guy about Jesus. Now apart from getting in trouble because I wasn't moving as fast as I should have due to some serious sharing o' Jesus, I discovered this guy has done what so many others have done these days. You know...they've made a Mr. Potato Head Jesus. They pick different parts that they have heard and like and put that on the potato. But the parts they don't like they cast to the side. And much like I did growing up when I stuck anything and everything (Q-tips, forks, thumb tacks, etc.) into those holes apart from the standard issue Mr. Potato Head accessories, this guy had thrown in reincarnation, karma and "virtuous living." Though I was direct with him I didn't preach at him (as much as I was tempted). Rather I tried to coach him in seeing the holes in his way of thinking. He was completely making up his own god.

Bottom line in all this? People are not going to church, they are not reading their Bibles, and are only listening to the likes of Joel Osteen on tv on occasion. (Not bashing, but come on!) The result? In this pluralistic society people are crafting their own view of God and banking their eternity on it. Again I ask... Seriously?? If I have told you my name, that I live in Ohio (O-H!), and am married to the most wonderful woman for almost 17 years and have two great kids, but you insist that I am a single guy named "Joe Bob" who lives in the back country of Louisiana does that in fact change who I am? God has revealed Himself and everyone will be held accountable to that, otherwise Christ died for nothing.

How do you get to know this self-revealing God? Well of course the first step is to invite Jesus into your heart as you confess and repent of your sin. You enter into a relationship with Him. He connects you to Himself...but He doesn't stop there. He then connects you to His people where you continue to learn. I'm so tired of those that are saved trying to tell me they don't need to go to church to be a Christian. You don't need to go to church to make it to Heaven, but if you want to be a "Follower of Christ" (Christian) then actually, yes you do, because He will lead you into deep and regular community with other Christians. Apart from this community, chances are great that you will live a weak and powerless life and risk very easily being swept away by the deceit of the Enemy. Some might rebuff with various verses about their strength in Christ, their beliefs are right, etc, etc., ad nauseum. The fact is that you were created for community and that Jesus died to create the Church, the Body and that is expressed in local bodies of believers gathering to worship, to receive God's Word together, to serve side by side in various ways.

Does simply being in church fix everything? OF COURSE NOT! I am not suggesting that if this 16 year old was a regular attender at church that nothing like this could have happened. (although statistics show that it would have been highly unlikely!)
But alone:

You are weak

You live a really small self-centered life

You can easily start lying to yourself. (compromise, blind spots)

You stunt your growth

You rob people of the gifts and calling that God has put in you to bless others.

You can easily get confused and fall into sin and error ("Did God really say???" Genesis 3:1)

You wind up living like an orphan when you have been adopted as a Child of the Most High God

You develop a cheap grace view like the 16 year old "alleged" murderer.

You slowly begin to remake God into your own image rather than who He has revealed Himself to be.

In my ranting, I do realize that there are a lot of people who have been hurt by past experiences in churches. I also realize there is a lot of work to do in restoring health to many of our churches. But don't take the 'Bait of Satan' (see John Bevere's book) and give up on God's plan for your life. These are not the days to be going it solo.

Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.24 Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.

http://bible.us/Heb10.23.NLT

/rant

Grace as an Active Force

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 14:02:00 +0000

So I've been meditating upon God's grace lately. A revelation of God's grace was so instrumental in allowing me to feel God's love early in my relationship with Him. I remember when I was in college, I had just given my life to the Lord and decided that I was truly going to follow Jesus not just pay Him lip service. Though I had been dragged to church growing up (a good thing!) it had never truly sunk in. I had some genuine "God moments" here and there, but my life was still my own...which of course meant that I was utterly broken. I made so many mistakes, chose to rebel against God hurting God, myself and others with my choices. Then it all changed when I met Jesus! I was free from all that...or so I thought. Certainly Jesus made me new when I surrendered to Him. I knew it, I felt it, I was different. However, though I longed for more of Christ and to grow in Him, I also longed for the stuff of sin. Not all of it. It was amazing that some of the things I used to crave were instantly gone the moment I was born again. Other things...not so gone.

I remember struggling with God in prayer over this. Pouring my heart out to Him.
"Why can't I get free of (this)?"
"What is my problem??"
"I thought you would deliver me from this stuff!"

I started getting angry and began to blame God. Of course it was His fault that I still wanted to sin, right? It is obviously due to a lack of love, power, interest on His part...right?

Obviously I didn't know my Bible yet. (Where those answers are found). One of those answers was about God's grace. I didn't yet understand the power and depth of what God was offering me. The New Testament talks so much about grace, but I didn't get it. It wasn't until I had blown it again in a certain area of my life that actually resulted in me being disciplined by my church. (thank God for great godly leadership!) I wound up having to sit out on a missions trip overseas and was stuck working in a factory in my hometown all summer. Thankfully, I was reading my Bible and as I read a verse that I had read or heard many times God opened up the eyes of my heart.

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. " (2 Corinthians 9:8, NIV84)

Often I saw God's grace as a one time extension of mercy. It was like a finger pointing to the historical fact of the cross...like a neon sign flashing "JESUS TOOK YOUR PUNISHMENT UPON THE CROSS." I had heard pastors preaching about grace and using words like "unmerited favor" ...but really, what does that even mean? And is that the extent of what grace is...the transfer of my punishment to Jesus? The fact that I am not getting what I deserve? Don't get me wrong, I am grateful for that!! But this verse seems to suggest something more than that. According to this verse (and others) grace is not simply a one time act, nor is it simply a characteristic of the personality of God. It is an active force in my life that God is causing. God is causing His grace to abound in my life so that in every way He is covering me, filling in my gaps, correcting my course, using me despite myself. It was like my eyes had been opened again (similar to salvation).

He understands that I am going to continue to blow it.
He understands that I have a traitorous, adulterous heart that will stray at times.
He understands that though I am saved, I am still a mess in many ways.

BUT, He has provided every ounce of grace that I will ever need. He continues to cause His grace to abound in my life all these years later. I may not struggle with all the things that I used to, but I am still a work in progress. I don't foresee a day this side of Heaven where I will not be in need of my Savior and the grace that He causes to abound to me.

It's funny, but when God opened my eyes toward His grace those many years ago, I was immediately delivered from some sin-stuff that had been clinging to me. The revelation of His love and grace for me was what delivered me, not the knowing that it was wrong.

1 Thessalonians 2

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 13:21:00 +0000

You ever had things not turn out like you thought they would? Like you prayed they would? Like you were sure they would? Ever begin a new endeavor with full confidence and faith in what God was going to accomplish through you only to experience hardship and frustration?

Read 2 Thessalonians 2

“For you yourselves know, brothers, that our coming to you was not in vain." (1 Thessalonians 2:1, ESV)

Sometimes you need a little distance to gain perspective on events in your life. If you go back and read Acts 17:1-9 you will read the story of what happened when Paul, Silas and Timothy came to the city of Thessalonica. After some initial fruitfulness, the city turned against them and the people who had responded to the Gospel and Paul and the boys were shipped off to another city.

I know that I would have felt some discouragement after that. You? Maybe reeling from dashed hopes and expectations of what was to come. Crashing after an initial excitement over what God seemed to be starting there. Not only that but Paul says in verse 2:

“But though we had already suffered and been shamefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we had boldness in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in the midst of much conflict. " (1 Thessalonians 2:2, ESV)

They had just come from another place where things seemed to have gone "badly." But the perspective often comes in our lives when we gain some distance from the events. Yesterday we read in 1 Thess 1:9 that:

“For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, " (1 Thessalonians 1:9, ESV)

Even though they were forced to leave in a hurry, the seed of the Kingdom of God had been firmly planted in the lives of the people who had called on the Name of Jesus.

If we pray, commit our ways to Him and live boldly we will always be used in ways that we do not know. The power at work within you will go far beyond what you can see or think or imagine.

In verses 3-12, we see how the integrity of the messenger impacts the message. You cannot separate the message from the messenger. The man behind the message matters. Not only that but in verse 8 we read this:

“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us." (1 Thessalonians 2:8, ESV)

The Gospel was never meant to be just preached to someone, but rather shared through the giving of our lives. And if that life is different from the words, then the message is polluted and Jesus is obscured.

Sometimes things don't work out the way we thought. But sometimes we just can't see in the moment what God is accomplishing on a much grander scale. And often are most precious moments, our most valuable Kingdom moments happen when through adversity.

In verses 17-20 we see Paul's great affection for the people. We see his pride (good kind!) in what has been accomplished there. We see his confidence that what the Lord established will be carried to completion until the Day of Christ Jesus is revealed.

“But since we were torn away from you, brothers, for a short time, in person not in heart, we endeavored the more eagerly and with great desire to see you face to face, because we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, again and again—but Satan hindered us. For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? For you are our glory and joy. " (1 Thessalonians 2:17–20, ESV)

I know that I resonate with certain elements of this as I transition in ministry. A little distance from it has given me better perspective. I did not see everything happen that I was hoping before God to see happen. And yet...what an incredible (most said impossible!) thing happened. I leave behind a precious community of people determined to to see God glorified in their community though it be with opposition, hindrances from Satan, and many more challenges ahead. I am confident that God has been at work and will continue to work in ways that are unseen to accomplish His purposes for the surrounding community.

He's cool like that.

1 Thessalonians 1

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 13:37:00 +0000

I'm going to try something out for the next few days. I want to go through sections of Scripture and provide commentary/thoughts/questions on what I read. Perhaps it will be useful to more than just me? If so, holla at me and let me know.

First read this: (1 Thessalonians chapter 1)

http://bible.us/1Thess1.ESV

“We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, " (1 Thessalonians 1:2, ESV)

How often do we simply think about people rather than including them in our prayers and petitions to the Lord? (See Romans 1:9)

“remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. " (1 Thessalonians 1:3, ESV)

Three marks of true believers:

Works of faith- Their faith produced action in their lives. They did not simply have a belief but rather actions that flowed from their relationship with the Living God. They had not merely adopted a belief system, but a way of life
Labors of Love- These actions produced by faith were prompted by love. They did not serve people out of obligation or because it was what they were supposed to do. They had fallen in love. What kinds of crazy things have you done because you were in love with someone? The motives behind those actions matter! It makes all the difference!
Steadfastness (Enduring) Hope- Believers endure hardship because they have a hope deep down in their gut that won't go away. A trust born of experiencing Jesus firsthand, of experiencing His love and feeling His embrace through the Spirit of God coming to live inside them, that just won't quit. Verse 6 mentions that they experienced great persecution because of their decision to turn away from their former religion (idols) and follow Jesus. That just doesn't happen because of a switch in doctrine.

“because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. " (1 Thessalonians 1:5, ESV)

Not just words... So many people want to engage in religious debate. They want to understand God intellectually before ever considering giving Him their heart. I don't mean to downplay intellect. I am not advocating a stupid Christianity. Some of the most brilliant minds in history have devoted followers of Jesus Christ. However, in 21st century America we have attempted to divorce head and heart. Paul used words and power. They experienced the Gospel through their thoughts and through feelings. I long for the days of another Great Awakening where God sovereignly, by His grace, pours out His Spirit again through men and women hungry to see others know the fullness of God in both mind and spirit. This is my prayer and passion.

“And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, " (1 Thessalonians 1:6, ESV)

Lone Ranger, Rambo, John McClane (Die Hard), Jack Bauer we celebrate the individual. We love the singular hero who saves the day. Many of us try to emulate that by pretending we don't need anyone. We declare we don't need anyone's help. We were not created to go it alone. Here we see how the people of the church in Thessalonica started in their faith by emulating Paul and the other missionaries. They studied them and assimilated practices and behaviors into their own unique lives. But they didn't stop there. As their understanding grew they went on to emulate Jesus ("and of the Lord"). This is the natural growth pattern of Christians. Imitate your spiritual parents and as you grow and understand build on that to emulate Jesus as the Spirit leads and as you see Him revealed in Scripture.

“and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come. " (1 Thessalonians 1:10, ESV)

Jesus has delivered all Christians from all wrath of God. Not only are we saved/rescued/delivered from the torment and punishment in Hell, but the Lord will rescue us from the Great Tribulation that will soon hit the earth. You think the world is a crazy messed up place now? Wait until the 'salt of the earth,' the Christians, are removed from it. Judgment will be unleashed as we read in the Revelation of John.

Daddy Fail!

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 19:34:00 +0000

Daddy Fail! My son was in the fourth grade dance recital thingy today that all fourth graders do. It was at 2pm,...and I missed it! I totally forgot! I have all kinds of reasons...Since resigning my schedule is erratic. It was in my calendar on my phone but I did not set the alarm with the event. I was filling out a questionnaire for a church interested in me to be their pastor. Roofers were here. I was working on a message that I will be speaking in Copley, OH this Sunday. I went grocery shopping for like an hour!

And somehow none of that makes up for my son coming home and asking me first thing, "Where were you?" I scrambled for half a second trying to figure out what he was referring to before remembering. Ack! Stab in the heart at his little face. I apologized profusely, but still feel horrible.

I guess if I was being rational, I would know that this will not be the only time I fail my son nor was it the first time. Good thing I am trying to teach him about the Lord so that he knows there is a Father in Heaven who will never fail him.

Well, blogging helps me feel better a little. I wonder if he does? If not, looks like it's a McDonald's night!...and ice cream! (That's right. I'm not above buying forgiveness!!)

Greatness and Familiarity

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 12:43:00 +0000

Greatness and Familiarity... You know it is a sad truth that greatness in people is often shrouded by our familiarity with them. There is an old saying that says "familiarity breeds contempt." There are people in your life that have greatness upon then or the seeds of it at least. Do you see that? If you can't see it, you can't bless it or benefit from it. Even Jesus who was perfect and truly worthy of respect could not escape this.

53 And when Jesus had finished these parables, he went away from there,54 and coming to his hometown he taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished, and said, "Where did this man get this wisdom and these mighty works?55 Is not this the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas?56 And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?"57 And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his hometown and in his own household."58 And he did not do many mighty works there, because of their unbelief.

http://bible.us/Matt13.53-58.ESV

These people missed a truly great opportunity because they could not get past the veil of what they thought to be the whole truth about someone. Now obviously the people around us are not perfect, but perhaps you are overlooking something in someone you have grown familiar with in your life; particularly if that someone is a Christian. Whether they are weak or strong, they have the Infinite Someone dwelling within them.

*Do you dismiss your children's input because they are small and less "experienced" than you?
*Do you overlook what your grandparents speak to you because they are from a different generation?
*Do you gloss over what a pastor or Christian leader speaks to you because you have grown familiar with them over time?
*Do you dismiss what someone says because they showed their weakness and humanity and disappointed you at some point in the past?
*Do you dismiss the counsel of your parents because you are always seeing ulterior motives in their words?

Ask the Lord to make all things new in your eyes. Ask Him to help you see as He sees. Ask Him to remove the veil so that you might bless and be blessed.

Often with deep regret people wait until funerals to share what was truly in their heart toward a person and how much they meant to them. Why wait?

I remember when...

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 00:04:00 +0000

I spent some time today with the Lord while walking around the mall. (Got this totally sick shirt with massive wings on it...I can fly, dog!) Anyway....

As I am approaching this transition in ministry and my family and I are totally reliant upon the Lord coming through for us (again!), I felt like the Lord was bringing the past to the forefront of my heart. You see He has met me every time I needed Him. Every time He has maneuvered me so that my back was against the wall and I had no hope of resolving an issue in my own strength or skill sets, He always has been there. Those many times I have had to wait in order to see the fullness of God in my life. You see He likes getting the glory...and I like giving it to Him.

I was reminded how the Lord used the mistakes of my youth to prepare me for youth ministry.

I was reminded about how after my graduation from college, I had no clue what to do with my life and this calling to ministry. And then in a moment of perfect timing I was invited onto staff at my home church, Dayspring Assembly of God.

I was reminded of how I had been waiting upon the Lord for a spouse and yet I had found fullness and contentment with Jesus filling that spot in my life...and then I met Susi...and she was perfect!

I was reminded about how Susi found a job in Indiana and after moving there we discovered there was a position there waiting for me.

I was reminded about how Susi and I have been faithful in our covenant with God regarding tithes and offerings and how so many many times we found God's supernatural provision at critical moments.

And so many more...

It makes me wonder how people do life apart living a Spirit led life with Jesus, especially in these days of chaos before the return of the Lord.

He is good. He is just. He rewards those who diligently seek Him.

I'm not about to stop now.

“For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth. " (Psalm 71:5, ESV)

“My mouth will tell of your righteous acts, of your deeds of salvation all the day, for their number is past my knowledge. " (Psalm 71:15, ESV)

“O God, from my youth you have taught me, and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds. " (Psalm 71:17, ESV)

The Church That I See...

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 19:54:00 +0000

The Church that I see...

As I have been interviewing with churches and answering a bunch of great questions, it has given me a chance to really reflect on what I hold in my heart toward what church is meant to be. As such putting them down on "paper" (so to speak) helps me organize my thoughts. Here's some random thoughts on the church that I see in my heart...

The Church that I see…

I see a church who plays together.

I see a church who prays together.

I see a church who stays together.

I see a church that is filled with people from the nations.

I see a church filled with people that are passionate and vibrant in their worship.

I see a church that has exciting (spirit), sincere (truth) worship.

I see a church committed to being agents of God’s justice in our community and around the world.

I see a church that ministers to and helps to lift the poor.

I see a church that champions the unborn and their mothers.

I see a church filled with people that are deeply connected to one another and deeply connected to the mission of the church. (A community impacting a community)

I see a church that is living blessed in order to be a blessing.

I see a church that so consumed with Christ that they are not hung up on preferences, but are willing to do whatever it takes to fulfill Christ's mission.

I see a church that rejoices and weeps with each other.

I see a church where people are looking for divine appointments all throughout their week in order to be God's Kingdom agents in the world.

I see a church that makes room for the next generation without abandoning them when change comes.

I see a church filled with people who want to press deeper into the journey with God, but are determined to take others with them.

I see a church who is committed to missions, both foreign and domestic.

I see a church filled with people whose lives have been transformed by the Gospel.

I see a church that embraces the supernatural in a natural way.

I see a church that desires and embraces spiritual gifts according to their intended purpose.

I see a church that doesn't just want to serve Jesus, but wants to bring Him pleasure.

I see a church whose facilities reflect the current mission and heart of God in their community.

I see a church that understands that the church belongs to Jesus and not the pastor or the Board or even the people. (we are stewards)

I see a church that will be creative in their expression and methodology, but will hold true to the unchanging Word of God in an ever-changing culture.

I see a church where the people are not just challenged but equipped to minister both in the church and in the marketplace.

I see a church that boldly engages in the marketplace of ideas today with compassionate, loving and thoughtful input from God's Word.

God's Glory or Your Comfort?

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 17:06:00 +0000

I have always found the story of Lazarus a challenging story in John 11. When Jesus found out His friend, Lazarus, was sick he said in v.4 "This sickness will not end in death...it is for God's glory." But of course Lazarus did die. His sisters, Mary and Martha, were deeply grieved. God's Word says in v. 6 after hearing the news and making this prophetic proclamation that Jesus "stayed where He was two more days." It was during that time that Lazarus died. But, He just said "this sickness would not end in death..."

When we face difficult trials and moments of great need, do we make allowances for God's will and God's timing? When we bring God our "news" of the latest events in our life, are we willing to trust even when it seems too late? Even when it seems the action of God seems to be inaction?

We of course have the benefit of knowing the end of the story. Lazarus was called forth from death and the tomb by the command of the Lord. But in between those moments there was real pain, real distress, real faith and hope that seemed to have been misplaced. It was too late right? Jesus failed to move and intervene. Mary and Martha may have been doing what we do, "did we sin and blow it?" "Is God too busy?" "Does He not love us like we thought?"

John 11 also contains one of my favorite memory verses (due in no small part too its length!). In v. 35 we read "Jesus wept." Why would the Holy Spirit include those two small words in the text for us to read through the ages? If you are like me then you have asked Jesus to glorify Himself through your life. You want Jesus to shine brightly and clearly for all to see. For this to happen it often requires you to be placed in situations where Jesus gets to come to the rescue and is thus glorified. In those moments when we are feeling the very real pain, distress and clinging to hope it is important to know that Jesus is right there with us feeling everything we feel. He is not unmoved by cares of our heart. Even though He knows the end of the story, even though He knows the joy that is coming, He LOVES us! He is deeply moved by the pain in our hearts.

God's will and God's timing might be beyond our grasp in those moments. Will you trust? Will you continue to allow room in your in your life for God to glorify Himself? Or will you live a greatly diminished life by only being guided by things like safety, comfort, least amount of risk? When it seems too late, will you continue hoping in the Lord; will you trust in His love for you?

Spend some time in John 11 today. See if the Spirit has anything to speak to your heart.

My Impending Resignation

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 01:18:00 +0000

Yesterday I announced that I will be resigning at the end of the Summer. The following is an attempt to explain some of what has led to this decision.

Several months ago I received a prophetic word from the Lord that I was to rest for a month with increased time of worship and prayer because there was a "whirlwind" coming. It was a wonderful and refreshing time with my Jesus! Towards the end of that time quite unexpectedly I felt the Lord say that He would be transitioning me out of the church soon. I was kind of ticked to be honest. I love West Shore Church. I love what the Lord has done to turn the church around and the community that has been formed.

Though I tried, it was a feeling that I just could not shake. Things started happening to confirm what I felt. My wife was in agreement with me, both in sensing what was coming and in wanting to resist the coming transition.

The final confirmation came when we learned that my wife had been laid off due to state budget cuts. Since she is a Speech Pathologist working in pre-school and they are often in high demand and usually safe from any cuts, we were caught completely off guard...until we remembered what the Lord had told us. We agreed that we would position ourselves in obedience to what we had heard.

Just after that we learned that the church building which had been on the market for close to two years had sold all of a sudden. The sale had to be ratified by the congregation. As a matter of integrity I knew that I had to disclose to them what was going on before they voted on the building. They needed to know that I would not be on the other side of the sale with them.

The difficulty in this is that it effectively forced me to divulge something that normally would be shared after I knew where we would be going. Another impact of this is that it would be bad for the church if the time after announcing all this went on for too long. It would damage the morale and momentum of the church. So come the end of Summer I will be resigning whether I have found a new position or not. My wife also has pay and benefits until the end of August. So come September we will either be walking on water or sinking! :)

We feel strongly that the Lord has initiated all of this and will provide for us as we have positioned ourselves in faith and obedience. We have been in this position before and He has met us each and every time. We can look back and say "God is good." Our emotions go up and down depending on the day, but our faith is strong.

I have been so impressed with the people of West Shore Church in that they voted to sell the building anyway even though it was a much scarier thing knowing their pastor is leaving. They were deeply disappointed and we shared tears together, but they know that Jesus is the Head of the church not me. I know that they will continue to pursue Jesus in their lives as well as together as a church.

How to Choose a Church

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 14:19:00 +0000

How should you choose a church? Many Christians are living disconnected from a church today, despite the continuous biblical command for us to gather together regularly in worship and the many benefits that come to us and to others from being deeply connected in a church. (did you know that the health benefits are the same between stopping smoking and being deeply connected to a church?) Of course part of that is choosing a "church that doesn't suck...the life out of you." (as we like to say)

So how do we choose? I think many of our frustrations are that we don't make good choices as to what we think we want or need. We are just terrible architects of our own happiness and meeting our own needs. So here are some thoughts on what I hope will be a helpful guide in choosing a local church body to connect to.

1. PRAY - in praying surrender all of your expectations and opinions as to what you think a "good church for you" would look like. Confess that He is Lord and that you will follow where He leads. Our lives are His...we must do more than simply confess this.

2. Do they continually lift up Jesus? Is Jesus (not the stuff of Jesus) central to everything they do?

3. Do they honor and celebrate God's Word as the foundation for understanding who God is? (in today's world you must check out a church's statement of beliefs. Is the church you are considering faithful to the historic creeds (Apostle's Creed, Nicene Creed) of the Christian faith?)

4. Do they welcome the Holy Spirit into their services? (this may take various forms, but is He welcomed?)

5. Do they disciple and equip people to live lives that minister inside and outside of the church?

6. (If appropriate) Is ministry to and equipping of my children a core value of the church?

7. Does the church have a burden to be an agent of social justice both locally and globally? (missions, ministry to the poor, serving the community, etc)

8. Ask: "Is there a way for me to not only grow in my giftings, but also to invest those giftings back into the community?"

9. Does the church have a good website? (What?! The reason for this is because if a church has not made the investment into a good web site, it means that they are disconnected from modern culture and are less than passionate about reaching people today with the Gospel of Jesus Christ)

10. Is your intention to find a place to go and hide in the crowd or find meaningful relationships that will help me grow and I in turn can help others?

11. Is this church dwelling on the past, or are they committed to engaging the world today in love with the counter-cultural message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ?

12. Are the people (including the pastor(s)) living authentic lives as Christ-followers? (In other words, is there a disconnect between church life and real life? Or are the various people (whatever level of spiritual maturity they may be at) striving for authenticity in their everyday life of faith?)

Remember, there is no "perfect church." You won't find that until Heaven. At some point you will most likely get offended wherever you wind up...churches are filled with people after all. Don't take the bait of Satan in your offense and break community. Be courageous. Determine that you are going to allow the Lord to bear greater fruit in your life with kindness, patience, gentleness, etc. (Gal 5:22-23) That doesn't happen in isolation or by watching your favorite preacher on tv...

Make the leap and join a community of believers today! They need you and you need them!!!

"Why Put the Tree in the Garden?"

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 16:41:00 +0000

So someone brought up something recently that I'd like to respond to. I've never heard any good teaching or explanation on this, so this will be my attempt to think it out...publicly.

There is a situation that can and has created offense within people's hearts toward God regarding our roots in the Garden of Eden. The question has been asked, "Why would God put the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil (aka the Forbidden Fruit) in the Garden if Adam and Eve were not to touch it?" It has been likened by some people to "putting a hand grenade in a crib." Initially this seems like a cruel thing to do. It is an easy jump to make in our minds. We think "if something can cause pain or destruction, keep it far away." We would all say, "yes, of course!"

So why, as God is forming creation, would he put this tree there? Why not put it outside the Garden somewhere? Why put it in the center of the Garden next to the Tree of Life? Whether your views on the Garden are metaphorical or more literal, the question still stands.

I guess I would start by pointing a few things out.

1. Sin had not yet entered into the world. Adam and Eve did not struggle with their broken fallen sinful natures like we do all the time, even after being born again. So we must keep in mind that this was not like dangling a beer in front of someone who is an alcoholic struggling to break free. There was free will, yes, and along with free will there is always choice, but our First Parent's "wanters" were not broken (yet).

2. I mentioned free will. Here's where we hit some controversy. I would argue that choosing holiness or good is dependent upon there being an alternative choice. A choice to embrace good through obeying God or a choice to rebel and declare our autonomy from our Creator. I am not suggesting that good is dependent upon evil (i.e. Yin-Yang) or any such nonsense as some Christians seem to embrace these days. I merely suggest to have choice you must have at least two things to choose from. In this case it was enjoy goodness and perfection innocently without the pull of a sinful nature, or choose to heed the tempter's voice (external influence) and disobey God. Removing choice would not have been a good option as it would remove an integral part of what it means to be created in image of God. After all, we cannot love God (or anyone) and be in relationship with Him (His continuing intentions) except that we choose to do so.

Simple initial thoughts for a complex question. I may add to this posting at some point as I reflect on it more.

UPDATE: (2/17/10)
3. The Leadership Perspective
Adam and Eve had been given dominion over all of creation. (Gen 1:26,28) They were to rule and reign over everything God had created as stewards. As a rule, leadership is always tested. The one restraint given to these stewards by way of command they could not keep. They were not owners, only stewards. The "hand grenade in the crib" argument doesn't work because they were not ignorant or children. They were innocent yes, but they were fully formed adults with an intellect far beyond our own (Adam named every single creature in creation!). And as I said before they were perfect, whole and complete. There was no sinful nature affecting them then that even affects the most innocent of us...our children. (no one has to teach children to fight over toys)

"Halloween" Party?

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 18:13:00 +0000

In keeping with our efforts to reach the unchurched and not other Christians from other churches, we are throwing a "Halloween" Party on Sunday October 31st. We are actually moving our whole church service across the street and renting out Hayes Elementary gym for the morning.

Many Christians would bristle at the use of "Halloween" and not the more church-friendly "Harvest" word. Outside of the church arena, a "Harvest Party" sounds much more weird and spooky than a "Halloween Party." Often we expect the people we are inviting to "get it" before actually giving it to them. Mature Christians understand the need to be cognizant of deeper spiritual truths and respect the fact that most people are messing around with things much more powerful and dangerous than they know. (i.e. demons, death symbols, witches and magic, etc.) However, we must understand that this is knowledge that gets assimilated after a person's spirit is reborn in Christ.

Here's what I mean. This Sunday in our bulletin there was coupled with the announcement about our upcoming party a statement that read "No monster costumes." I stood up and told our people to ignore this. I explained that we are not invited our community to come only if they come on our terms or what we consider spiritually acceptable terms. Imagine a mom or dad who know nothing of Christ and they bought the spookiest costume they could find for their child. They receive our invitation, but feel they cannot come because they would either have to buy another costume or if they showed up with the one they have they would be afraid of being labeled "less than ok" in some way for doing so.

It would certainly be my hope that down the road after their spiritual eyes have been opened to the unseen realities of the spiritual world that they would choose a costume that was not demonic in nature.

As a parent, my wife and I had the discussion years ago about what we would do for Halloween when our kids came of age to either participate or not. We decided that it would be nonsense for us to refuse to allow our kids to participate at all. But we have set parameters. We do the pumpkin carving, and we let the kids pick out or create a costume to go "trick or treating" in. But the costumes are not to be demonic, not to be associated with magic, nor will they have anything to do with death or spirits. We know and respect the spiritual realities that exist and do not want to open any door or create any foothold for the enemy in their lives. However, we will not be governed by fear and create some sort of barricaded approach to life. Our approach allows the kids to fully participate and have fun, but in a way that does not dishonor the Lord.

Soooo.... we are throwing a Halloween party! People are free to dress up however they want. We are going to love them, love the kids and show every one of them that Jesus loves them to the fullest amount possible right now as they are.

New Focus: "Why?"

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Schall) — Sun, 03 Oct 2010 03:36:00 +0000

I am going to start blogging more about the "why" of how I am doing things as I continue to lead a church through a turnaround effort. No need to reinvent the wheel if someone is going through a similar effort. Since there are so many churches that need to turn things around, this will either serve as a help for how to do things or else a "Manual of Things to Avoid!" :) So far, so good though. If in reality this serves more as a journaling tool for me to help organize my thoughts, that's good too.

So...

As I finish year three and look back, I see a difference in my preaching. The first two years I was preaching wonderful, rich theological sermons. (in my humble opinion) However, I realized that I was preaching more for the approval of my peers in ministry (who were not present and I'm pretty sure were not listening online either). This was not done intentionally. I only became aware of it through some prayer and introspection. The same things that speak to me, will not speak to the unchurched and those who are young in their faith. I have found that I am putting things more on the "bottom shelf" as one of my mentor's put it. For all my talk about relevance, it needs to be relevant to the real audience more than a perceived audience. Is it not the role of a pastor to meet people where they are at and draw them higher? Kind of sounds like what Jesus does too...

It is still my goal to have something relevant for people at every level of their spiritual journey with Christ. I know that I am constitutionally unable to stand up front and deliver weak moralisms and empty spiritual platitudes. I just can't do it. What I can do is be more intentional about delivering the uncompromising truth of God's Word in a means more easy to digest. We're called to be "fishers of men." I suck at actual fishing and have no interest in getting better...but even I know that fishermen use different lures and bait in different waters based on what the conditions are and what kind of fish they are trying to catch. The objective for every 'fisher of men' is to find the right bait for the right condition they find themselves in.