In case some of you have noticed my absence and  have wondered where I have been, I’m going to tell you. I have been on a temporary sabbatical. Lord willing, I will return. During this time I’m going fishing in a sense by revisiting the time when Jesus reeled me in.

This is a time of repentance, renewal, refreshing and a seeking of joy in Christ for my soul. Life can be overwhelming at times. For example, Christians have daily spiritual needs of which I have been lately neglectful. Sprinkle some recent financial issues on top and this time of spiritual renewal to seek God’s face becomes all the more necessary. I know that God is a perfect, loving, and merciful Father who takes care of His children. I have, and will be, daily practicing habits of faith learning to trust Him more and more praying that my “love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that [I] may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” (Phil. 1:9-11 ESV)

During this time I will be away from most outside contact such as phone calls and all social media including twitter, Facebook, blogging, or even reading blogs, etc. My email will be limited to necessary things like paying bills and such. It has been great unsubscribing from many daily emails in the first week or so that just bogged me down. Most I barely read anyway. My blog comments are in moderation mode and I have two brothers tending to the blog in my absence.

If you would, please pray for my family and I that we draw closer to Christ than we ever have and that He quenches every ounce of hunger and thirst that we can imagine and even that hunger that we do not realize exists. Pray that we would, “destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.” (2 Cor. 10:5 ESV) And that we would “rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” (Rom. 5:3-5 ESV)

Finally, I have always loved the picture below. The picture is actual and symbolic of walking into a new season of life – married life in which two become one as joint heirs of the grace of life. (1 Pet. 3:7) Today, this picture is still symbolic as the walk of life together continues until the Lord calls us home. I could not think of a better picture to symbolize my walking through a renewing of life.

    “Our Father in heaven,
    hallowed be your name.
    Your kingdom come,
    your will be done,
        on earth as it is in heaven.
    Give us this day our daily bread,
    and forgive us our debts,
        as we also have forgiven our debtors.
    And lead us not into temptation,
       but deliver us from evil.”
(Matt. 6:9-13 ESV)

In Christ,
Mark

No related posts.

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | No comment | Add to
Post tags: sabbatical

Create in Me a Clean Heart, O God
[1] Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love;
according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.
[2] Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin!
[3] For I know my transgressions,  and my sin is ever before me.
[4] Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight,
so that you may be justified in your words and blameless in your judgment.
[5] Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me.
[6] Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being,
and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart.
[7] Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
[8] Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones that you have broken rejoice.
[9] Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities.
[10] Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
[11] Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
[12] Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.
[13] Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will return to you.
[14] Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, O God of my salvation,
and my tongue will sing aloud of your righteousness.
[15] O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise.
[16] For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it;
you will not be pleased with a burnt offering.
[17] The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
[18] Do good to Zion in your good pleasure; build up the walls of Jerusalem;
[19] then will you delight in right sacrifices, in burnt offerings and whole burnt offerings;
then bulls will be offered on your altar.
(Psalm 51 ESV)

Related posts:

1. Sunday Considerations: Pure and Holy
2. Sunday Considerations: Lord, Strengthen Us
3. Sunday Considerations: The Saints Reward

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | One comment | Add to
Post tags: Lord's Day, Sunday

Grudem, Wayne. Business for the Glory of God: The Bible’s Teaching On the Moral Goodness of Business. Wheaton, IL: Good News Publishers/Crossway Books, 2003.

Guest review by Wayne Elliott.

Why, we may wonder, would one of today’s most respected evangelical theologians care about the world of business, much less be moved to write a book analyzing the theological basis for business? After all, isn’t business far removed from the halls of the theological academy? Wayne Grudem is a graduate of Harvard University (BA), Westminster Seminary (MDiv), and the University of Cambridge, England (PhD). He has served as president of the Evangelical Theological Society and recently as general editor for the ESV Study Bible. Many of us at Mount Vernon are familiar with Grudem’s Systematic Theology, which has been taught and studied here for many years. So what would move Grudem to think and write about business?

This short (83 pages) book reveals a surprising answer. Grudem understands that all aspects of business, including ownership, profit, money, competition, and borrowing and lending glorify God because they reflect God’s nature and His provision for man. Rather than seeing business as inherently evil or an enterprise fueling the fallen nature of man, Grudem understands that business activities (like all activities of man) sometimes are manipulated or misused as a means to sin, but that the inherent nature and practice of business is a God-given blessing to mankind.

Grudem begins by acknowledging that “few people instinctively think of business as morally good in itself” (11). When young people ask, “How can I serve God with my life?” they don’t often hear the answer, “Go into business.” Why is that? Probably because much of today’s news and reports about business tend to stress misuse, wrongdoing, and manipulation. But are these sinful activities inherent in the business enterprise? Not at all. As Grudem explains, “Many aspects of business activity are morally good in themselves, and that in themselves they bring glory to God—though they also have great potential for misuse and wrongdoing” (12).

In Business for the Glory of God, Grudem explores the following aspects of business activity:

1. Ownership
2. Productivity
3. Employment
4. Commercial transactions (buying and selling)
5. Profit
6. Money
7. Inequality of possessions
8. Competition
9. Borrowing and lending
10. Attitudes of heart
11. Effect on world poverty

Although this reviewer graduated from business school and law school, and for many years worked in, led, and advised business enterprises, and although I can defend the enterprise system from a viewpoint of economic theory, I found Grudem’s explanation of the theological underpinnings of business to be very refreshing, encouraging, and instructive. I only wish this little book had been available to me as an undergraduate in business school.

How often do liberal commentators and politicians, steeped in Marxist theory, decry the inequality of possessions that may result from competition? This anti-competitive attitude appears not only in reaction to business but in those schools where grades are no longer awarded and in youth sports where everyone gets a trophy.

Grudem writes:

It may seem surprising to us to think that some inequality of possessions can be good and pleasing to God. However, although there is no sin or evil in heaven, the Bible teaches that there are varying degrees of reward in heaven and various kinds of stewardship that God entrusts to different people…So we should not think of all inequalities of possession as wrong, or evil. In fact, inequalities in possessions provide many opportunities for glorifying God…[T]he Bible does not teach a “health and wealth gospel” (or at least not until heaven!). In this present age, there are inequalities of gifts and abilities, and there are also evil, oppressive systems in the world, and because of these things many of God’s most righteous people will not be rich in this life. As for those who have large resources, they also are to be content in God and trust in him, not in their riches… (51, 55, 56)

We know from economic theory that the very nature of barter or exchange in a free society is good in itself because through such transactions we do good to other people. As Grudem explains:

This is because of the amazing truth that, in most cases, voluntary commercial transactions benefit both parties… Buying and selling are activities unique to human beings out of all the creatures that God made…We can imitate God’s attributes each time we buy and sell, if we practice honesty, faithfulness to our commitments, fairness, and freedom of choice. (36, 37)

Indeed, “because of the interpersonal nature of commercial transactions, business activity has significant stabilizing influence on a society” (37).

Grudem provides a helpful illustration of the interpersonal growth which can come from commercial transactions:

An individual farmer may not really like the auto mechanic in town very much, and the auto mechanic may not like the farmer very much, but the farmer does want his car to be fixed right the next time it breaks down, and the auto mechanic does love the sweet corn and tomatoes that the farmer sells; so it is to their mutual advantage to get along with each other, and their animosity is restrained. In fact, they may even seek the good of the other person for this reason! So it is with commercial transactions throughout the world and even between nations. This is an evidence of God’s common grace, because in the mechanism of buying and selling, God has provided the human race with a wonderful encouragement to love our neighbor by pursuing actions that advance not only our own welfare but also the welfare of others—even as we pursue our own. (37-38)

In his clear and concise manner, Grudem explains how the “process of borrowing and lending multiplies the available wealth in the world more times than it is possible to calculate” (71). Imagine that—borrowing and lending is not only not evil in itself, but is a God-given gift to provide for mankind.

From a Christian perspective, one of this short book’s most impactful chapters deals with the effect of business on world poverty. Grudem asserts: “I believe the only long-term solution to world poverty is business. That is because businesses produce goods, and businesses produce jobs. And businesses continue producing goods year after year, and continue providing jobs and paying wages year after year” (80-81).

Grudem notes that excessive government red tape and obstacles to the enterprise system effectively destroy economic growth. Many oppressive government systems stifle individual enterprise and commercial exchange, thus robbing citizens of realizing the fruit of their God-given talents and work. Grudem decries “evil governments that confiscate a country’s wealth and thus prevent business from helping people overcome poverty. Yet another [obstacle] is repressive governments that hinder and destroy businesses in order to enhance their own power” (81).

As Grudem writes, a “large reason business activity has not yet solved world poverty is negative attitudes toward business in the world community” (82). Of course, beyond widespread economic and theological ignorance, a major reason for negative attitudes toward business is the abuse and misuse of commercial transactions by sinful men. That, of course, is potential in every human endeavor. For similar reasons—the misuse and abuse by a few practitioners—the public perception of such inherently worthwhile and traditionally respected vocations as the ministry, politics, and the law, have fallen in respect in recent years.

Scripture teaches that all good things come down from the Father of lights. We should be thankful for His gifts and responsible in our use and exercise of them. Man should create reasonable systems of law to minimize abuse and misuses, and then take joy and pleasure in the good gifts our Lord has blessed us with, business included.

I highly recommend this short and accessible book. It would be particularly helpful for young people who are considering career directions and who would benefit from a better understanding of God’s provision of business enterprise. Grudem’s book serves as a reminder that God has provided for us in every conceivable way and that His common grace blesses all creation.

Related posts:

1. Book Review: The World-Tilting Gospel
2. Book Review: Fearless by Max Lucado
3. Book Review: Preaching that Connects

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | No comment | Add to
Post tags: book review, business, Wayne Grudem

Christ underlines a further principle, “Abide in My love” (15:9), and states very clearly what this implies: the believer rests his or her life on the love of Christ (the love of the One who lays down His life for His friends, v. 13).

This love has been proved to us in the cross of Christ. We must never allow ourselves to drift from daily contemplation of the cross as the irrefutable demonstration of that love, or from dependence on the Spirit who sheds it abroad in our hearts (Rom. 5:5). Furthermore, remaining in Christ’s love comes to very concrete expression: simple obedience rendered to Him is the fruit and evidence of love for Him (John 15:10-14).¹

Related posts:

1. Sunday Considerations: End of All Love
2. Sunday Considerations: Called to Die
3. Sunday Considerations: Outdo One Another

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | No comment | Add to
Post tags: Lord's Day, Sunday

Related posts:

1. Kindle My Blog
2. Cheap Kindle eBooks Under $5
3. Good Books from Goodwill

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | No comment | Add to
Post tags: cheap ebooks, Christian, Christianity, ebooks, Kindle

While citing the Southern Baptist Convention website on resolutions for yesterday’s applied ethics post¹ I noticed a interesting statement about resolutions.

Note the following from the SBC website [emphasis added].

21. How do I find out the official SBC stance on various issues?

The Southern Baptist Convention makes official statements regarding specific issues by means of resolutions passed at our annual gatherings each June.  Southern Baptist polity views these resolutions as expressions of opinions or concern which are representative of the messengers attending the meeting, but are not binding upon any individual church or successive Convention.  Generally speaking, resolutions are snapshots of views widely held among Southern Baptists at the time and in the social contest in which they are passed, but they are not deemed to be doctrinal or creedal (tests of fellowship).²

It is understood that resolutions are expressions of opinion and are not officially binding. Of course, those opinions are of the messengers present as they are the ones listening, interacting and voting. However, the above states that not only are resolutions not binding, but they are not binding upon the “successive Convention,” that is, the following Convention that meets. It makes sense that such resolutions represent views at the time and context in which they are presented and passed since cultural issues faced by Southern Baptists can change from year to year.

Do the above statements on SBC resolutions mean that they are only applicable to the particular Convention in which they are passed and not successive Conventions?

Related posts:

1. Ethics: Anti-Calvinism Resolution at the Southern Baptist Convention
2. SBC Membership Resolution Passes
3. Southern Baptists & the Alcohol Resolution: How?

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 8 comments | Add to
Post tags: resolution, SBC, Southern Baptist, southern baptist convention

What would you do Wednesday!

The annual Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) meeting is two months away¹ so a situation that could take place during this meeting may provide an interesting discussion.

In order to help those who are not Southern Baptists better participate in this topic, a few citations expressing Southern Baptist positions are provided below.

Southern Baptists have prepared a statement of generally held convictions called The Baptist Faith and Message. It serves as a guide to understanding who they are.²

There is nothing in the Baptist Faith and Message that excludes Calvinists nor is the aim to do so. The SBC actually answers the question of Calvinism on the website.

7. What is the SBC’s official view of the doctrine commonly known as “Calvinism?”

The Southern Baptist Convention has not taken an official stance on either Calvinism or Arminianism. If you surveyed Southern Baptists across the nation you would likely find adherents at both ends of the spectrum with plenty at each point in between.³

SBC resolutions may be presented at the annual meeting for the messengers present to vote on. Resolutions pass and fail each year.

Two position statements regard SBC resolutions follow.

A resolution has traditionally been defined as an expression of opinion or concern, as compared to a motion, which calls for action. A resolution is not used to direct an entity of the Southern Baptist Convention to specific action other than to communicate the opinion or concern expressed.⁴

And.

21. How do I find out the official SBC stance on various issues?

The Southern Baptist Convention makes official statements regarding specific issues by means of resolutions passed at our annual gatherings each June.  Southern Baptist polity views these resolutions as expressions of opinions or concern which are representative of the messengers attending the meeting, but are not binding upon any individual church or successive Convention.  Generally speaking, resolutions are snapshots of views widely held among Southern Baptists at the time and in the social contest in which they are passed, but they are not deemed to be doctrinal or creedal (tests of fellowship).⁵

Now the situation!

A vote for an anti-Calvinist resolution comes to the SBC messengers. The last two lines of the resolution states (bear with me as this is easier than writing a whole resolution):

RESOLVED, That we urge Southern Baptists to be actively involved in educating students and adults concerning the destructive nature of Calvinism and Reformed theology; and be it finally

RESOLVED, That we urge that no one be elected to serve as a trustee or member of any entity or committee of the Southern Baptist Convention that is a Calvinist or supports/promotes Calvinism.

How would you vote and why?

Be nice!

Related posts:

1. Southern Baptist Convention: on tips and alcohol
2. Southern Baptists & the Alcohol Resolution: How?
3. Georgia Baptist Blogging Resolution

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 34 comments | Add to
Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

1. Subjectivity in Modern Preaching
2. A Six-Word Memoir of the Christian Life
3. Reformation Day 2011: Luther on the Power of God’s Word

Now, I say we must put heart in our worship. Do not venture to come to this beautiful place of worship, or whatever place of worship you attend, and just sit languidly down to see if the choir can stir you or to see if the preacher can stir you. Oh! stir up your own souls. It is your solemn duty when you go to engage with others in the worship of God-it is your duty to yourself, it is your duty to others, it is your duty to the pastor who wishes to lead your worship, it is your duty to God, who wants the hearts of men, and who will have nothing but their hearts. I know how we feel. Worn by a week’s toil, languid on the Lord’s day through lack of our customary excitement, we go to take our places, jaded and dull, and we are tempted to think, “Now I will see whether the services can make any impression on me; whether the preacher can get hold of me-I hope they may,” and we sit passive to wait and see. Oh, let us not dare thus to deal with the solemnity of the worship of God. ¹

Related posts:

1. Sunday Considerations: Hearing the Word
2. Sunday Considerations: Many Mansions
3. Sunday Considerations: Humility

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | No comment | Add to
Post tags: Lord's Day, Sunday

Pastor Fred Luter, who will probably be the first black president of the Southern Baptist Convention, spoke to PBS recently on race relations in America. Below is an excerpt of the interview.

Watch Rev. Fred Luter on Race in America on PBS. See more from Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly.

I have not heard the whole interview, but will offer some thoughts on the above excerpt.

I agree with brother Luter that America still has a long way to go in race relations. However, he has couched his insight into the need for racial reconciliation based on the way President Obama is treated by some. I disagree with Luter’s blanket premise as presented in this excerpt.

I do not doubt that there are those who do not respect Obama because he is (considered) black. Yet, the examples Luter gives are not necessarily racially motivated. It is not clear that someone shouted during Obama’s speech that he is a liar because he is black. It is not clear that some idiot put up a ridiculous picture of Obama with a hole in his head because he is black. It is not clear that the ridiculous comment to imagine Obama as one of the shooting targets was made because he is black.

Everything is not about race.

As difficult as it can be for some conservatives, the office of President of the United States does deserve respect. Those whom I know personally that oppose Obama do so based on ideological, rather than racial, reasons.

There is certainly a racial divide in America, but blaming what seems to be every disagreement or disrespectful attitude toward President Obama on race does little to mend the racial divide.

What do you think?

Related posts:

1. Southern Baptists: Racial Relations and Spiritual Worth
2. Obamanians: Thought I’d Seen It All
3. Is Your Church White?

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 17 comments | Add to
Post tags: black, Fred Luter, race relations, racism, white

What would you do Wednesday!

The characters: You are one of twenty board members of a local Christian school. You have a friend who writes an online column for a local newspaper.

The situation: Your friend has recently written critically in his online column about some of the recent decisions of the Christian school. You have mostly agreed with your friend about his concerns and have worked within your capacity as a board member to correct these recent decisions.

A recent board meeting discussed some of the details about one of the school’s recent decisions. You shared those confidential details with your friend. You did not explicitly state that those details were to remain private so your friend decided to publish an article containing those details in the online newspaper column. Your friend cited an unnamed board member as his source.

The Christian school is well-known and relatively powerful in the community so this confidential information has caused quite a stir in the community. The Chairman of the board has put pressure on the newspaper to get your friend to reveal his source. The Chairman has also asked for the board member that leaked the information to admit to it.

The two potential outcomes: If your friend does not reveal his source the newspaper will take disciplinary action against him. If your identity is revealed, the board will take disciplinary action against you.

What do you do?

• Try to subtly convince the board to drop the issue.
• Let your friend take a fall for you to fight for your cause.
• Admit you are the leak and save your friend from any recourse.
• Start blogging anonymously about the school and all of their internal problems.
• Or…

Related posts:

1. Ethics: High School Football Practice Changed for Ramadan
2. Ethics: Leaving a Gospel Tract for a Tip
3. Ethics: Church Discipline Contract Issued

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 9 comments | Add to
Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

I will be hosting Dr. Ed Stetzer’s (President of LifeWay Research) webcast “The Exchange” as part of a test syndication.

Tune in today!

Today on “The Exchange” Pete Wilson, pastor of Cross Point Church in Nashville, discusses his newest book Empty Promises: The Truth about You, Your Desires, and the Lies You’re Believing.

Philip Nation, Director of Ministry Development at LifeWay Christian Resources, will be guest-hosting.

Click the image below to start the webcast at 2pm cst/3 pm est!

Related posts:

1. A La Blog 8/4
2. Worshiping with Ed Stetzer
3. LifeWay Reads With Discernment

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 2 comments | Add to
Post tags: Ed Stetzer, Lifeway, missional, The Exchange

Bubba Watson has won the 2012 Masters golf tournament. This is Watson’s first win in a Major golf tournament and only his fourth on the PGA Tour. Watson won in a dramatic play-0ff against South Africa’s Louis Oosthuizen.

Both men hit errant drives at the second play-off hole. However, Watson’s ball landed in a tougher spot to play from than Oosthuizen’s though Watson was around 50-60 yards closer to the hole. Watson preceded to hit in incredible golf shot by hitting the ball out of the woods and curving it to land on the green. The shot was incredible!

It is pretty cool for a Christian to win the Masters golf tournament on Easter Sunday. I am sure it is very encouraging for that Christian to win his first Major golf tournament on any day, but he will probably not forget that he won on Easter Sunday.

More encouraging though are the tweets that Bubba Watson sent out this weekend.

Thanks everyone for the support! 3 reasons tomorrow will be #awesome, 1. Jesus has risen 2. See my new baby boy & my wife 3. Masters Sunday

— bubba watson (@bubbawatson) April 8, 2012

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

— bubba watson (@bubbawatson) April 8, 2012

Happy Easter everyone! #JesusHasRisen

— bubba watson (@bubbawatson) April 8, 2012

.@bubbawatson Congratulations on your #Masters win! (1 Corinthians 10:31)

— Mark Lamprecht (@hereiblog) April 9, 2012

Related posts:

1. The Church Tomb of George Whitefield in Pictures
2. Friday Photo Sharing by My Wife
3. More Photos of Alabama Tornado Damage

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | No comment | Add to
Post tags: Bubba Watson, golf, The Masters

The Strife is O’er, the Battle Won

The strife is o’er, the battle done;
The victory of life is won;
The song of triumph has begun: Alleluia!

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

The powers of death have done their worst;
But Christ their legions hath dispersed;
Let shouts of holy joy outburst: Alleluia!

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

The three sad days are quickly sped;
He rises glorious from the dead;
All glory to our risen Head! Alleluia!

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

He closed the yawning gates of hell;
The bars from heaven’s high portals fell;
Let hymns of praise His triumphs tell! Alleluia!

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

Lord, by the stripes which wounded Thee,
From death’s dread sting Thy servants free,
That we may live, and sing to Thee: Alleluia!

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!¹

Related posts:

1. Sunday Considerations: Pure and Holy
2. Sunday Considerations: Lord, Strengthen Us
3. Sunday Considerations: Heaven Desired

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | No comment | Add to
Post tags: Lord's Day, Sunday

The Rev. Alfred W. Wishart, Jr., opened his Easter sermon at the Arlington Avenue Presbyterian Church of East Orange, N.J., with these words:

“Did you ever stop to think how much time it takes to get all of you looking so nice for today? What with the shopping and all, I’d conservatively estimate that it took each of you four hours to get ready. Since there are about 500 of you here, that comes to 2,000 hours. Now if you divide that up into 40-hour workweeks and allow two weeks for vacation, it breaks down into a full year of preparation for Easter Sunday.

“So that’s where you’ve been since last year.”¹

Wishart’s observations are somewhat humorous and sad at the same time because they ring true. Most likely thousands of people across the United States who attend church once or twice per year will attend church this Easter Sunday. Many of those who seldom attend church will spend time getting physically ready for Easter service. Many churches will have spent much time preparing the worship time to be as attractive as possible for those who seldom attend.

May Good Friday be a reminder that Jesus was born to die. Jesus’ whole life was preparation so that He would die at God’s appointed time. Jesus’ preparation was not about worldly attractiveness, impressing others or general acceptance. Actually, the world rejected and killed Him.

Meditate on Jesus’ last moments while preparing to worship Him this Easter Sunday.

The Death of Jesus

33 And when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. 34 And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” 35 And some of the bystanders hearing it said, “Behold, he is calling Elijah.” 36 And someone ran and filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on a reed and gave it to him to drink, saying, “Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to take him down.” 37 And Jesus uttered a loud cry and breathed his last. 38 And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. 39 And when the centurion, who stood facing him, saw that in this way he breathed his last, he said, “Truly this man was the Son of God!” – Mark 15:33–39 (ESV).

My Easter prayer is that Christians would spend more time preparing spiritually than they would on their physical appearance. And those churches who have gone the extra mile to attract those who do not attend church will have spent more time preparing a clear gospel message that outshines any specialties employed for Easter. Finally, that those who profess to be Christians who do not normally attend church will be convicted to assemble regularly with a local congregation; and those non-Christians will repent and believe the gospel with the conviction that 1) Christian worship is not about special presentations on particular holidays and 2) that the resurrection is not just an Easter worship celebration, but is central to every Christian worship service.

Related posts:

1. Preparing To Worship
2. How often church attendance?

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 3 comments | Add to
Post tags: easter, Good Friday

I’m not sure what the problem is with the original content since it worked fine initially, but I’ve added the books in another format below. Yet, for some reason Broken-Down House for Kindle would not add.

Related posts:

1. Christian Kindle Books Under $5
2. Kindle My Blog
3. The Shack Widget

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 4 comments | Add to
Post tags: Amazon, ebooks, Kindle

What would you do Wednesday!

The tragic shooting death of Trayvon Martin by George Zimmerman that happened in Sanford, FL has taken over the internet recently.¹ Passionate replies have been poured out from both Martin and Zimmerman supporters.

Many in the court of public opinion have already tried Zimmerman and found him guilty of murder. Others believe that Martin may have brought the confrontation and shooting upon himself by causing Zimmerman to act in self-defense. Yet, what seems to be a minority of responders have decided to wait until all of the evidence is presented before a judge and jury to make a personal judgement. Due to all of the publicity, Zimmerman is currently in hiding.

In spite of all of the opinions on the Martin-Zimmerman case, I’d like to ask how Christians might respond if George Zimmerman came out of hiding to visit your church Sunday morning. I have seen a range of comments from my fellow Christians on Facebook which echo my observations above about holding personal judgements on the case.

The scenario. You notice a visitor at church on Sunday morning just prior to Sunday School. After Sunday School, right before worship service begins, you get to meet the visitor. He simply introduces himself as George and says he is in the area visiting relatives. He looks somewhat familiar, but you can’t quite figure out why.

Just as the call to worship is given, it hits you – George Zimmerman!

After quickly and quietly asking if he is the George Zimmerman, he affirms and asks that you keep his identity quiet. He explains that he really needed some Christian fellowship and spiritual nourishment so he decided to visit a local church where he most likely would not be recognized.

The worship time begins and the sermon today is providentially about forgiveness.

After worship time, a couple of your fellow church members think they recognize Zimmerman, but aren’t exactly sure. The members saw you talking to Zimmerman, so they come up to you and ask about the visitor. You affirm that it is the George Zimmerman. A few of your friends aren’t sure what to say or do though at least one of them is visibly angry.

How would you treat George Zimmerman?

• Sneak out during the sermon can call the local media.
• Ask him when he is going to turn himself in and admit to murder.
• Greet him as a professing Christian and talk to him about forgiveness.
• Ask him how you can pray for him.
• Or…

Related posts:

1. Ethics: Immodest Dress In Church
2. The Church Tomb of George Whitefield in Pictures
3. Ethics: Excluding A Single Parent from Church Membership

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 13 comments | Add to
Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

Dear readers, read the following Scripture.

“Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know—this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it. (Acts 2:22-24 ESV)

Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you—unless you believed in vain.

For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. (1 Corinthians 15:1-5 ESV)

Now, please share why this is good news. How has this news affected your life, worldview, etc.? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Related posts:

1. Good Buys On Good Books
2. Advance09 Makes Local News
3. Good Enough To Be A Saint

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 5 comments | Add to
Post tags: good news, Gospel, Jesus Christ

Bitter and Sweet
by John Newton

Kindle, Saviour, in my heart,
A flame of love divine;
Hear, for mine I trust thou art
And sure I would be thine;

If my soul has felt thy grace,
If to me thy name is known;
Why should trifles fill the place
Due to thyself alone?

‘Tis a strange mysterious life
I live from day to day;
Light and darkness, peace and strife,
Bear an alternate sway:

When I think the battle won,
I have to fight it o’er again;
When I say I’m overthrown,
Relief I soon obtain.

Often at the mercy-seat,
While calling on thy name,
Swarms of evil thoughts I meet,
Which fill my soul with shame.

Agitated in my mind,
Like a feather in the air,
Can I thus a blessing find?
My soul, can this be pray’r?

But when Christ, my Lord and Friend,
Is pleas’d to show his pow’r
All at once my troubles end,
And I’ve a golden hour;

Then I see his smiling face,
Feel the pledge of joys to come
Often, Lord, repeat this grace
Till thou shalt call me home.

Related posts:

1. Sunday Considerations: Sins on Jesus
2. Sunday Considerations: Humility
3. Sunday Considerations: Humility

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | No comment | Add to
Post tags: Lord's Day, Sunday

Dr. Stephen Wellum recently gave Southern Seminary’s Faculty Address entitled, “What does the Extent of the Atonement have to do with Baptist Ecclesiology: an Experience of Doing Theology.” John Meade has posted a downloadable mp3 of Wellum’s talk at his site, LXX Studies.¹

Dr. Wellum addresses the issue of the extent of the atonement and Baptist eccesiology in the following two points.

1. Making a case for a definite atonement Using the priestly argument answering,”For whom did Christ die?”
2. The implications of the priestly argument for understanding the nature of the church (New Covenant community).

The case Wellum attempts to make is that the extent of the atonement is directly related specifically to Baptist ecclesilogy. His stated conclusion is:

So that, the overall argument will be that a consistent Baptist ecclesiology is best defended by the embrace of a definite view of the atonement.

Listen, then share your thoughts.

P.s. The bulk of Wellum’s address is presenting the priestly argument which he does in three categories.

• Hermeneutical/exegetical issues.
• Unified work of the Old Covenant (summarized in Hebrews 5:1).
• The priestly work of Christ.

Related posts:

1. John 3:16 Conference David Allen – Limited Atonement
2. John 3:16 Conference 60 minute Q&A
3. A 1915 Perspective on Southern Baptist Doctrinal Conditions

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 14 comments | Add to
Post tags: atonement, eccle, SBTS, Southern Baptist, southern baptist convention, Stephen Wellum

What would you do Wednesday!

Today’s topic comes at the suggestion of  a Georgia pastor friend. He tweeted an article to me titled Want a Job? Fork Over Your Facebook Password, Employer Says.¹ The suggestion was to substitute ‘search committee’ for ‘employer’.

Great idea!

Sitting before a pastoral search committee during what will most likely be the final interview the committee members believe they have a bit more due diligence to conduct.

On behalf of the whole committee, one member inquires.

Mr. Potential Pastor, you have told us that you have both a Facebook and a twitter account. In this age of social media it is possible that you are active on other social mediums such as blogs and groups like the ones found on Yahoo and Google.

In order to get a fuller picture of who you are, we request that you give us all of your social media user names and passwords.

What would do or how would you advise this pastoral candidate?

• Turn over the user names and passwords as there is nothing to hide.
• Decline this unreasonable request.
• Ask the committee members for the same so you can begin to get to know the new congregation.
• Tell them you need a day to think (so you can create some fake user names).
• Or…

Related posts:

1. Ethics: A Homosexual Asks About Christianity
2. Ethics: Pastoral Candidate Answers Questions on the Trinity
3. Popping Off Is Not Pastoral

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 16 comments | Add to
Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

I was recently listening to a pastor preach on the importance of prayer in pastoral ministry. Prayer is certainly important in the life of a pastor (or any Christian). The context was that this pastor was teaching future pastors. Giving his time to such teaching is a great service. However, the text he used to make his point was Acts 1:13-14 and a few things just did not sit right with me.

And when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers. (Acts 1:13-14 ESV)

After reading the Scripture he explained that this text shows the importance of prayer in the life of pastors. Maybe he wanted to substitute pastors for the Apostles and use a general principle of coming together for prayer. Yet what do we do with Mary, the other women, and Jesus’ brothers?

Further, the pastor inserted his view of how scared these uneducated men probably were when faced with going out and sharing the gospel. The comment was made that these men were so afraid that they were driven to prayer because they had nothing else to rely on but God.

Finally, the pastor attempted to stress the importance of prayer and such by repeatedly stating “I believe” about several items. While he may have had reasons to believe what he was stating his beliefs came across as fideistic.

My intent is not to tear down, but to make a few observations about how subjectivity can creep into preaching and teaching. The other issue is that this was a Southern Baptist teaching future Southern Baptists pastors.

I can’t help but wonder…Does this type of preaching add to the lack of critical thinking in local churches today? Does it facilitate a lack of apologetic desire and engagement? Does it promote fideism and encourage Christians not to think about what they believe and why? Does this type of preaching teach Christians to fall back on their feelings putting their hearts and minds at odds with each another?

Or maybe it’s just me.

Just thinking…

Related posts:

1. Preaching: Young, Restless and Four?
2. Preaching On Sin and Responsibility
3. Ethics: Pastor Opposes Tim Tebow Preaching

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 5 comments | Add to
Post tags: critical thinking, exegesis, preaching

Grant, Almighty God, that as we are prone to every kind of wickedness, and are so easily led away to imitate it, when there is any excuse for going astray and any opportunity is offered, – O grant, that being strengthened by the help of thy Spirit, we may continue in purity of faith, and that what we have learnt concerning thee, that thou art a Spirit, may so profit us, that we may worship thee in spirit and with a sincere heart, and never turn aside after the corruptions of the world, nor think that we can deceive thee; but may we so devote our souls and bodies to thee, that our life may in every part of it testify, that we are a pure and holy sacrifice to thee in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.¹

Related posts:

1. Sunday Considerations: Pure and Holy
2. Sunday Considerations: My Lord and My God
3. Sunday Considerations: Prepared for the Lord

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | No comment | Add to
Post tags: Lord's Day, Sunday

What would you do Wednesday!

It’s March and NCAA March Madness is here! March Madness inspired me to a little blog madness for today’s ethical scenario. Of course, we all know that Christians should not only not play the NCAA brackets, but we should especially not play those brackets with money…

…or should we?

March Madness inspires a little office madness as the bracket sheets circulate just begging for everyone in the office to join in the fun. Bracket Bob, the person organizing the bracket sheets, asks you to participate. You really enjoy March Madness and following your own brackets just for fun.

You ask Bob for the office madness run down. Bob knows you are a Christian and admits that he wasn’t sure if he should ask you or not because he knew there was money involved, but he heard you were following the games so he explains the office games to you.

Look, I know you are a Christian and probably don’t bet, but it’s only 10 bucks per bracket. (Laughing nervously) You probably spend more than that for a lot less entertainment. Seriously, each bracket you fill-out and turn in is $10. The money goes into the pool. If you win the whole thing you get 70% of the entry fees while second place gets 20% and third gets 10%. Right now we’re up to $200 and it may go to $300. What do you say?

What would you do?

• Play, it’s only 10 bucks.
• Ask if you can play without paying and winning money.
• Politely decline while following the brackets on your own.
• Ask him why he thinks a Christian can’t play then share the gospel.
• Decline and tell him he’s going to burn for betting.
• Or…

Related posts:

1. Ethics: Leaving a Gospel Tract for a Tip
2. March Devotion MP3
3. Ethics: A Church Member Wins the Lottery

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 6 comments | Add to
Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

I came across an interesting observation in a book I am reading for one of my classes. In the book Shepherd Leader, author Timothy Witmer points out what he calls the “Wal-mart effect” among megachurches.

The truth of the matter is that much of the growth of megachurches is drawn from smaller churches in the region. This is what I call the Wal-Mart effect. What happens when a Wal-Mart moves to town? Many small “mom and pop” businesses are forced to close because they can’t compete with the prices, variety, and “one-stop shopping” of Wal-Mart. Likewise, small churches are depleted by large churches because the large churches provide “one-stop shopping” with ministries of every variety for everyone in the family. Sometimes the “prices” are cheaper, too. Not in the sense that a “tithe” is any less but that the anonymity of a larger church may not require the same level of commitment that smaller churches must have in order to function effectively. How many new members in your church are joining by profession of faith? How many are coming from other churches? These are important questions to consider.

The sheep shuffle from church to church, otherwise known as “church hopping.” There is no doubt that there is a consumer mentality among many Christians whose primary question about a church is not, “Is this a good place for me to serve and where I can grow as a believer?” but rather, “Will this church meet my needs?” If you are on the receiving end of these new members you rejoice and consider it to be church growth and God’s blessing. If you are on the losing end, you can easily become cynical and accuse other churches of “sheep stealing.”¹

While Witmer’s observations may seem obvious to some extent from outside of the megachurch, the perspective from within may be much more positive. I have friends that have had great experiences attending and serving in megachurches. I may even join one myself some day…who knows. One point about the church hoping phenomenon is that it is not limited to megachurches.

Witmer adds a positive note on the next page.

To be honest, one of the reasons that Wal-Mart continues to grow is that they not only provide good prices but customer service as well. There is someone there to greet you, guide you, and answer your questions.²

What do you think about the Wal-mart effect?

Related posts:

1. Are Megachurches Healthier?
2. Keeping Christ in Christmas so we can sleep in?
3. A Healthy View of Church?

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 7 comments | Add to
Post tags: ecclesiology, megachurch, Shephed Leader, Wal-mart, Witmer

If Jesus Is Not Worshiped, God Is Not Loved
Jesus is the fullest revelation of God. “Whoever has seen me,” he said, “has seen the Father” (John 14:9). This means that knowing and loving Jesus is the test of knowing and loving God. So Jesus said, “I know that you do not have the love of God within you. I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not receive me” (John 5:42–43). His adversaries “do not have the love of God within [them]” because they do not  receive him. “The one who rejects me rejects him who sent me” (Luke 10:16). If they loved God, they would love him. Why? Because he makes God known more clearly and more fully than any other revelation.

Therefore, the main reason Jesus says to love God with all our mind is that the mind is the faculty for thinking about Jesus, and therefore about God. If we did not use our minds to know and think about the fullest revelation of God in the person and work of Jesus, we would not know God. And if we did not know him, we would not love him. And if we did not love him, we would not express his worth in all the other uses of our mind.

Therefore, God has given us minds so that, by thinking with the Spirit’s help, we can know the truth and beauty and worth of God through Jesus and treasure him above all things and spend our lives expressing this in as many ways as our minds can pursue. Or, as I said at the beginning of this chapter, loving God with all our mind means that our thinking is wholly engaged to do all it can to awaken and express the heartfelt fullness of treasuring God above all things.¹

__________________________

Related posts:

1. Sunday Considerations: Abide in Love
2. Sunday Considerations: End of All Love
3. Sunday Considerations: Outdo One Another

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | No comment | Add to
Post tags: Lord's Day, Sunday

In October 2011, atheist Ernest Perce dressed in a Zombie Muhammad costume for a Halloween parade. Perce was attacked by Muslim Talaag Elbayomy for wearing the Muhammad costume. Perce and Elbayomy went to court in Pennsylvania over the situation and a Judge Mark Martin ruled in favor of the Muslim, Elbayomy.

What did the judge say during his ruling?

And Mr. Thomas [Elbayomi's defense lawyer] is correct. In many other Muslim speaking countries – excuse me, in many Arabic speaking countries – call it “Muslim” – something like this is definitely against the law there. In their society, in fact, it could be punishable by death, and it frequently is, in their society. ¹

It is not clear what the penalties in other countries for dressing up in a Zombie Muhammad costume have to do with anything, but among the judge’s comments is one in particular that stands out.

But you have that right, but you’re way outside your bounds on First Amendment rights.²

Outside of First Amendment rights? Really? How? Thankfully, the judge still recognizes he is in the United States given his reference to the First Amendment.

There is more to the case though. The judge had a copy of the Qur’an with him and would not let video evidence of  Elbayomy attacking Perce be shown. Nor was the police officer who was at the scene allowed to testify that Elbayomy admitted attacking Perce. The case was dismissed since all the judge allowed as evidence was the testimonies of Elbayomy and Perce.

The American Thinker site has an interview with Perce posted about the case.³ While Perce is taking a stand for freedom of speech, he believes Islam is a hateful religion and making fun of Muhammad seems to be a regular activity of his. I’m sure he did have all of the death threats he has reported.

While I have no desire to make fun of Muhammad, I do agree that atheist, Perce, has the freedom do so. For all I know, Perce may make fun of Christianity too which he also has freedom to do.

Once again, it seems as though Islam is offered some sort of special protection in the U.S. legal system. There seems to be an unwritten rule that every religion must get special attention to make sure their followers are not offended, Christianity being the acception.

As a Christian, I know that it is the gospel that changes hearts and not U.S. law. Though I’d prefer proper application of the law which seems to be missing from the above case. Yet, I expect to be insulted, offended and rejected by the world for the sake of the gospel. Jesus said as much.

“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. (John 15:18-21 ESV)

______________________

Related posts:

1. Religious Freedom: Jesus vs Islam
2. Is Islam special?

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 4 comments | Add to
Post tags: Constitution, Islam, Sharia, Zombie Muhammad

What would you do Wednesday!

Today’s scenario involves a Southern Baptist seminary professor who is seen by a student drinking beer at a local restaurant. As always, anyone is free to comment.

You, dear reader, are a seminary student out to dinner with some friends who are visiting for the weekend. While being seated at the restaurant you notice one of your professors. You also notice what looks to be a glass of beer in front of the professor. However, you remember the ethical conduct statement you signed as a student which is similar to the statement signed by seminary staff.

Below are two examples of such ethical conduct statements. One of them states that…

…through its administrative committees, may take disciplinary action, including dismissal, should the standard of personal and ethical conduct becoming to a Southern Baptist minister be violated. Violations of this standard shall include, but is not limited to:

C. Use or possession of beverage alcohol or illegal drugs;¹

Another states…

Alcohol & Drugs
In accordance with the irreproachable standards of moral conduct as well as denominational expectations for all members of the seminary community, the use of alcoholic beverages and illicit/illegal drugs are prohibited. Compliance with abstention from alcoholic beverages and drug abuse does not apply to worship communion, appropriate medications, etc.²

So you doubt that the professor is drinking beer until, that is, the waiter pours the rest of the beer from the bottle into his glass. Catching the professors eyes as you walk to your table, you give a passing wave to each other.

While on campus on the following Monday, you get a chance for some brief small talk with the professor. He tells you about the interesting dinner he had with his atheist neighbor. His neighbor has always thought Baptists were too uptight so he would never give the professor any time for a spiritual conversation.

Finally, the atheist neighbor made him a deal. The neighbor said that he would buy the professor dinner and listen to him explain Christianity if the professor would have just one beer with him.

What would you do?

• Pray for the conversation that took place and say nothing more.
• Pray and ask the professor about the ethics code.
• Mention the ethics code and explain that he will have to be reported.
• Ask if you can go next time to enjoy a beer while sharing the gospel.
• Or…

______________________

Related posts:

1. Ethics: Seminary Student Preaches Someone Else’s Sermons
2. The Gospel in the Liquor Store
3. Ethics: Baptism by Pouring-Joining a Baptist Church

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 37 comments | Add to
Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

The pro-abortion, pro-choice crowd argues that abortion is a reproductive right. However, there is a problem with this line of reasoning.

In order to have an abortion, reproduction must have already taken place i.e. a human life must exist in order to abort it. A right to reproduce, or have offspring, is not the same as a right to abort, or terminate the life of said offspring.

In actuality, abortion is a counter-reproductive action since it kills a human being that is already living.

It is possible that babies in the womb would like the same reproductive rights that others have, but in order for that to happen those babies must first have the unequivocal right to life.

Related posts:

1. Obama, Abortion and Pay Grades
2. Gospel Then Morality: Lesson From Abortion Counseling
3. Wisdom of Solomon, Obama and Abortion

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 5 comments | Add to
Post tags: abortion

One of the books assigned to read for one of my classes is Pastor’s Handbook by John R. Bisagno which offers a lot of practical advice. The advice is mostly pragmatic seemingly from a consequentialist perspective. That is, Bisagno writes from experience with little Scriptural support for his advice. Bisagno’s advice is not intrinsically good or bad, right or wrong, but at times questions arise when experience seems to be his authority.

Bisagno offered an interesting perspective on extending the gospel invitation during corporate worship. I am not convinced the reasoning in the advice given about extending the invitation is logically consistent. What follows are some observations about Bisagno’s reasoning on the invitation.

While many forms of invitation may be extended, every sermon should be marked by an appeal to persuade the hearer to make a response to what he has just heard.¹

While I agree with sharing the gospel in the sermon, Bisagno assumes every sermon is preached to the unbeliever rather than the body of Christ gathered to worship. In 1 Corinthians 14:23, Paul indicates the church gathering and explains the proper use of speaking in tongues in case unbelievers come into the service indicating the worship service is primarily a time for believers.

The physical expression of that response is important. It might be filling out a card, raising a hand, moving to an inquiry room, coming forward, or some other means, but it is important that the hearers be afforded the opportunity to make a tangible expression of their response. Everyone our Lord called to follow Him, He called publicly. He called Zacchaeus to come down out of the tree; He called Matthew to get up from his revenue table; He called Peter and Andrew to leave their fishing boats. A physical expression of the intent of the heart was always called for.²

A reason is not given for why a physical response is important. For Baptists, the ultimate physical response will be seen in public baptism. It is true that Jesus called people publicly to follow Him, however, Jesus call was more in the form of the Great Commission, while He was going, rather than during a worship service. Also, Scripture does not give any indication that the physical responses to Jesus’ calling was necessary other than the responses being a consequence of their physical location at the time.

It’s not that He needs our public stand as much as we need it. And the world needs the testimony and encouragement of our public profession of faith. For that reason I am most comfortable with extending a public invitation that calls for respondents to come to the front of the church and stand before the pulpit, although there are other acceptable ways.³

A public testimony is certainly encouraging to the body. Is such a testimony equally encouraging to the world? I’m not so sure for the world often criticizes Christians for their testimony being the beginning and end of one’s expression of faith. The world often hears a testimony rather than the gospel. The world often hears a testimony rather than seeing a life changed from the gospel.

The reasoning gets more interesting as Bisagno continues.

The invitation of our Lord must never be extended in the flesh without the powerful touch of the Holy Spirit. It must never be manipulative, high pressure, overly extended, embarrassing, or confusing.⁴

Agreed! However, Bisagno gives some interesting instructions on how to carry out the invitation.

One of the most important ingredients in the public invitation is the manner in which it is begun. A smooth transition from sermon to invitation is best accomplished with the help of background music and prayer. I finished every sermon by asking the people to pray. Immediately the praise band, organ, choir, or ensemble began to play or sing. A soloist should never sing during the invitation. It draws attention from the pulpit, the focal point of the invitation.⁵

A smooth transition makes sense as that is simply part of good public communication even though the Holy Spirit can use any gospel presentation regardless of the smoothness of transitions. I’m not sure why the best transition involves background music as some might see that at manipulative. Since Bisagno used Jesus’ examples of using a public invitation should we assume that Jesus also used background music or something to set the mood? Obviously, I’m being rhetorical, but to warn against manipulation and point to the power of the Holy Spirit while purporting background music with careful instruction to not use a soloist certain seems inconsistent. Can the Holy Spirit not work in the gospel with a soloist or without background music? I believe both of those items are missing from the gospel presentations in Scripture.

We should be cautious at the extremes of both an invitation too long and one too short. Don’t be afraid to sing more than two or three verses. If God is moving, let it go on.⁶

What constitutes an invitation being too long or too short? How does one discern if God is moving or not? How long were Jesus’ calls to those that Bisagno mentioned earlier?

Conversely, don’t extend the invitation beyond the movement of the Spirit of God. Don’t preach during the invitation, and do little, if any, ongoing exhortation. Let the Holy Spirit do His job; you’ve already done yours. When you sense He is finished, close the invitation. Don’t underestimate the power of a militant invitation. Songs like “Stand Up for Jesus” or “Onward Christian Soldiers” can stir the heart to respond.⁷

Again, how does one know when the invitation time has been extended beyond the Holy Spirit’s movement? How does one sense God is finished? While Bisagno warns against exhortation, he does advise readers to use stirring music. Using stirring music may not be direct verbal exhortation, but it is a device to try to persuade people. It seems that using such music would be trying to help the “Holy Spirit do His job.”

The traditional “come forward” invitation is powerful. Who could ever forget seeing hundreds and thousands stream down the aisle in a Billy Graham crusade? I want to be clear that I think it is still the best way. There’s a certain power and inspiration, a sense that “I am doing the right thing,” as others come to Christ, that makes it more conducive to come forward. ⁸

It seems that the gospel should be lifted up as the main point of what is powerful in any invitation (Rom. 1:16). Bisagno previously mentioned letting the Holy Spirit do his job, but also speaks to the power of walking the aisle. The self-congratulation that “I am doing the right thing” is to focus on the wrong person. Regardless of whether or not anyone comes forward, faithfulness to the gospel message of the Jesus Christ should be the measure of whether or not the right thing was done.

As Baptists continue the plight to get back to the Bible, it is clear that in some Baptist circles tradition still rules. Of course, we all have traditions, yet the desire should be to hold those traditions and the reasons for them based on the word of God as best we can.

For what it’s worth…

Mark
__________________

Related posts:

1. On Altar Calls And Gospel Proclamation
2. John 3:16 Conference, Together for the Gospel and Poor Arguments
3. Poll: Does Christian Hip-Hop Harm the Gospel?

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 7 comments | Add to
Post tags: altar call, Bisagno, pragmatism