I love small groups. I believe that they are biblical Christianity lived out... Like the disciples around Jesus. I host a small group on Monday nights, and have a variety of characters with which to enjoy living life together.
Amy is flat out hilarious. She starts talking and laughing, which makes her talk more and laugh more.
Kevin is more serious, but can't help laughing at Amy, Christine (his wife) empathizes and encourages Amy through whatever disaster she's describing.
Craig (Amy's husband) sits next to her looking at us like, "See what I live with?"
Jay and Lynn, just seem to observe things sometimes seemingly wondering about the chaos of other's lives.
Corie sits quietly on the couch, and Ben (her husband) is in his wacky world of story and make-believe.
It really is rather exciting to live life together, learning to become like Christ.
Small group was great last night.
--Ben
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Monday, February 27, 2006
Yesterday I hosted our 2nd information meeting. It went well. I felt rushed because it was encapcilated in an hour between services.
We had a an interesting mix yesterday. We had Sr. Citizens through teens. People who are considering coming to the new church and people only interested in knowing more in order to pray for us and support us better.
Prayer Points:
* This week I'm contacting AACC to begin negotiations on meeting space. Pray for me. That God will lead us to the place he wants us to meet. It may not be AACC, but I'm heading that direction and depending God to lead me.
We had a an interesting mix yesterday. We had Sr. Citizens through teens. People who are considering coming to the new church and people only interested in knowing more in order to pray for us and support us better.
Prayer Points:
* This week I'm contacting AACC to begin negotiations on meeting space. Pray for me. That God will lead us to the place he wants us to meet. It may not be AACC, but I'm heading that direction and depending God to lead me.
Saturday, February 25, 2006
AGTS
Hey everyone,
I realize that the posts from this week were a little academic, I hope you'll understand that I was AGTS (Assemblies of God Theological Seminary www.agts.edu) . It was especially stimulating.
But now I'm back and am glad, because we did 4 ten hour days, which is a tough mentally and really exhausts.
I talked to Matt yesterday. He has been thinking about our youth ministry. He is formulating a name and working through what it will look like. I would ask you to pray for Matt and Laurie. Their step of faith is huge. They'll be moving down here in around late August temporarily, and then trying to more permenantly by Nov./Dec. God is already doing amazing things, let's believe and ask for greater things. This is His church. I want Him to put it together His way.
--Ben
I realize that the posts from this week were a little academic, I hope you'll understand that I was AGTS (Assemblies of God Theological Seminary www.agts.edu) . It was especially stimulating.
But now I'm back and am glad, because we did 4 ten hour days, which is a tough mentally and really exhausts.
I talked to Matt yesterday. He has been thinking about our youth ministry. He is formulating a name and working through what it will look like. I would ask you to pray for Matt and Laurie. Their step of faith is huge. They'll be moving down here in around late August temporarily, and then trying to more permenantly by Nov./Dec. God is already doing amazing things, let's believe and ask for greater things. This is His church. I want Him to put it together His way.
--Ben
Friday, February 24, 2006
Confessional
Today I heard a story about a college who takes a week off classes to be wild and “find their inner animal”. It’s all about drinking, drugs, sexual experience…crazy. The campus ministry group asked themselves what they thought they could do. They decided they would set up a confessional booth. Their “crazy” part was that the confessional was for the Christians to confess the sin that the Church has committed against the world.
A guy came in “Hey is this really a confessional booth?” Then a Christian said that it was about apologizing that the church had so ostracized his generation that he apologized that the church trumped the guilt card all the time. It didn’t change their campus, but it did change them and their outlook on mission.
Please pray for me. God is really shaking me in the core of who I am about what kind of church he’s on track to start.
--Ben
A guy came in “Hey is this really a confessional booth?” Then a Christian said that it was about apologizing that the church had so ostracized his generation that he apologized that the church trumped the guilt card all the time. It didn’t change their campus, but it did change them and their outlook on mission.
Please pray for me. God is really shaking me in the core of who I am about what kind of church he’s on track to start.
--Ben
Closer to home--pray for this church
This is a church I discovered. I'm asking people to pray for this church and for me to be able to meet and see what God is doing in them.
http://www.chesapeakebayccc.org/main.html
http://www.chesapeakebayccc.org/main.html
Great Article
This is a great ariticle on emerging church.
http://www.the-next-wave-ezine.info/issue86/index.cfm?id=9&ref=ARTICLES%5FEMERGING%20CHURCH%5F151
http://www.the-next-wave-ezine.info/issue86/index.cfm?id=9&ref=ARTICLES%5FEMERGING%20CHURCH%5F151
Thursday, February 23, 2006
more boring philosphy
Another peek into the emerging culture. Good debate coming here, I want to invite more than dad to participate. Or maybe you just don’t care.
Here we go. The traits of the Modern are to break things into the simplest steps/forms. However, Postmodernity embraces complexity. Look at the following examples:
Who is the star of this show? Gilligan right? And in every show the plot was exactly the same, 1. They came up with a plan to get off the island, 2. The characters turned to the scientist (reason alone) to get off the island, 3. Gilligan fouled it up. BTW, the only time an ethnic person would show up was when the Aborigines showed up in an episode or two.
Very simple.
Who is the star of this show? There are so many story lines going on it’s impossible to break it merely into the simplistic pieces of Gilligan’s Island. Some characters don’t even show up in some episodes. Not only that, but some have tried to get off the island, and others don’t even want to. Characters float in and out of alliances with other characters. And Lost is one of the hottest shows on TV. Postmoderns have embraced complexity.
A little more insight.
--Ben
Check out http://www.circleofhope.net/ -- great church!
Here we go. The traits of the Modern are to break things into the simplest steps/forms. However, Postmodernity embraces complexity. Look at the following examples:
Who is the star of this show? Gilligan right? And in every show the plot was exactly the same, 1. They came up with a plan to get off the island, 2. The characters turned to the scientist (reason alone) to get off the island, 3. Gilligan fouled it up. BTW, the only time an ethnic person would show up was when the Aborigines showed up in an episode or two.
Very simple.
Who is the star of this show? There are so many story lines going on it’s impossible to break it merely into the simplistic pieces of Gilligan’s Island. Some characters don’t even show up in some episodes. Not only that, but some have tried to get off the island, and others don’t even want to. Characters float in and out of alliances with other characters. And Lost is one of the hottest shows on TV. Postmoderns have embraced complexity.
A little more insight.
--Ben
Check out http://www.circleofhope.net/ -- great church!
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Below is a generalization of the two world-views that I’m sorting through on a regular basis because of the emergence of a seemingly “postmodern” world. The information on this page is a compilation of material by Dr. Randy Walls.
These show the main tennets and motivations of each.
Modern:
Individual Alone
– Self determination
Reason Alone
– Explore certainties
Knowledge Alone
– Principles rule
Mind OVER Matter
– Dualistic
Gunsmoke is a picture of Modern thinking. Marshal Dillon was the good guy in the white hat. He figured the way out of the situation, or battled right against wrong. It's obvious who the star was.
Postmodern:
Individual-in-relationship
– Community values
Reason plus Doubt
– Embrace complexity
The Unknowable
– Mysteries abound
Mind AND Matter
– Holistic
Who's the star of this show? Not individual, but individual in community. It's tempting to say that this is a generational thing, however it's not so cut and dry. Some authors say that Postmodernism started with the holocaust, others that it happened in Vietnam. The fact is that there are people in their 50's who are more postmodern, and there are people in their 30's who are in Modernity.
This is a very basic entrypoint into the understanding of postmodernism as it affects the church. It is really a philosophical issue. But that gets pretty deep.
As missional Christians we're required to understand our culture in order to reach them with the gospel. If this is or is not helpful in understanding, please let me know. If not, I'll try again.
--Ben
These show the main tennets and motivations of each.
Modern:
Individual Alone
– Self determination
Reason Alone
– Explore certainties
Knowledge Alone
– Principles rule
Mind OVER Matter
– Dualistic
Gunsmoke is a picture of Modern thinking. Marshal Dillon was the good guy in the white hat. He figured the way out of the situation, or battled right against wrong. It's obvious who the star was.
Postmodern:
Individual-in-relationship
– Community values
Reason plus Doubt
– Embrace complexity
The Unknowable
– Mysteries abound
Mind AND Matter
– Holistic
Who's the star of this show? Not individual, but individual in community. It's tempting to say that this is a generational thing, however it's not so cut and dry. Some authors say that Postmodernism started with the holocaust, others that it happened in Vietnam. The fact is that there are people in their 50's who are more postmodern, and there are people in their 30's who are in Modernity.
This is a very basic entrypoint into the understanding of postmodernism as it affects the church. It is really a philosophical issue. But that gets pretty deep.
As missional Christians we're required to understand our culture in order to reach them with the gospel. If this is or is not helpful in understanding, please let me know. If not, I'll try again.
--Ben
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Belonging before believing
Emerging Church…
I’m in a class this week for doing ministry in the postmodern world. Essentially it’s a study of the changing philosophy of emerging culture, which may or may not affect the church going forward.
I love it. Our class represents 3 generations, and though postmodernism isn’t generationally tied, there is a good exchange of thought in this class. Wish you could be with me.
Small group…
Last night I had a small group meeting at my house. I was so refreshed by it. We discussed the message Pastor Phil preached on worry. It was a good discussion.
The most important part of the night was during a prayer and praise time. I have not mentioned the church plant for the first three weeks because I didn’t want to make people uncomfortable as it is a PAG Life Group. But during the prayer time I asked permission to talk about it, and everyone responded that they had been wondering why I hadn’t previously. One guy said, “What we’re trying to say is that if there is any place you can talk about it, it’s here.”
Wow!!! That just so lifted my heart and reminded me about the need for genuine community. Great small group!
--Ben
I’m in a class this week for doing ministry in the postmodern world. Essentially it’s a study of the changing philosophy of emerging culture, which may or may not affect the church going forward.
I love it. Our class represents 3 generations, and though postmodernism isn’t generationally tied, there is a good exchange of thought in this class. Wish you could be with me.
Small group…
Last night I had a small group meeting at my house. I was so refreshed by it. We discussed the message Pastor Phil preached on worry. It was a good discussion.
The most important part of the night was during a prayer and praise time. I have not mentioned the church plant for the first three weeks because I didn’t want to make people uncomfortable as it is a PAG Life Group. But during the prayer time I asked permission to talk about it, and everyone responded that they had been wondering why I hadn’t previously. One guy said, “What we’re trying to say is that if there is any place you can talk about it, it’s here.”
Wow!!! That just so lifted my heart and reminded me about the need for genuine community. Great small group!
--Ben
Monday, February 20, 2006
The Weekend
What happened to the weekend…
Uggh, mornings like this make me wonder what happened to the weekend. It just seemed to go by so quickly. I ended up with my nose in a book all weekend for a class that I have this week. Currently I’m reading A is for Abductive. It is a primer of words for ministry to a postmodern society.
Earlier in the weekend I finished The Church in the Emerging Culture. It was an interesting book that gave me a view of different ways churches are trying to engage the culture. Very challenging! I’ll tell you that every time I read a book, I come away thinking that I don’t know what I’m doing. But when I read the next book it often puts the previous book into perspective, and then I don’t feel so bad.
The graduate class I’m attending this week is called Ministry in the Emerging Culture. Should be good.
First information meeting…
Yesterday was our first information meeting at PAG. We had about a dozen people there. It went pretty well. I felt like I communicated everything I wanted to: My heritage, the mission, vision and core values. I was done in 40 minutes, and we were done in under an hour with question/answer. I guess there was a little disappointment, because there were people that I thought would be there that weren’t, but maybe next week, and maybe not at all. Even so, “He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weekness.’ Therefore I’ll boast in my weakness so the power of God will rest on me.” (2 Cor. 12:9)
“I’m feeling you”…
After the meeting a couple came to me and said, “I just want you to know that I’m feeling you.” What an encouragement. I called Matt to let him know that we weren’t alone. God is answering my prayer and bringing people alongside us. This will be a great journey.
Uggh, mornings like this make me wonder what happened to the weekend. It just seemed to go by so quickly. I ended up with my nose in a book all weekend for a class that I have this week. Currently I’m reading A is for Abductive. It is a primer of words for ministry to a postmodern society.
Earlier in the weekend I finished The Church in the Emerging Culture. It was an interesting book that gave me a view of different ways churches are trying to engage the culture. Very challenging! I’ll tell you that every time I read a book, I come away thinking that I don’t know what I’m doing. But when I read the next book it often puts the previous book into perspective, and then I don’t feel so bad.
The graduate class I’m attending this week is called Ministry in the Emerging Culture. Should be good.
First information meeting…
Yesterday was our first information meeting at PAG. We had about a dozen people there. It went pretty well. I felt like I communicated everything I wanted to: My heritage, the mission, vision and core values. I was done in 40 minutes, and we were done in under an hour with question/answer. I guess there was a little disappointment, because there were people that I thought would be there that weren’t, but maybe next week, and maybe not at all. Even so, “He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weekness.’ Therefore I’ll boast in my weakness so the power of God will rest on me.” (2 Cor. 12:9)
“I’m feeling you”…
After the meeting a couple came to me and said, “I just want you to know that I’m feeling you.” What an encouragement. I called Matt to let him know that we weren’t alone. God is answering my prayer and bringing people alongside us. This will be a great journey.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Back to the Bean
Saturday, bright and early 8:00 a.m. , I came to Corky's Hard Bean Cafe. The Bean is a place I like to come and study (yeah right) I really like to people-watch. It is moving to me to see those who are helpless and harrased like sheep without a shepherd.
I love the atmosphere here. It is challenging to me to the sense of community that the world plugs into. Community is an area that I think the Church really needs to consider in order to really engage the culture. Community breeds new relationships. It's Corky (actually I haven't been able to get his name, but I hope I do today) asking the guy ordering at the counter what he thinks of the new bar across from the naval academy, and concluding, "I'd like to here your opinion when you go there."
What's contained in this discourse? The sharing of ideas and the invitation to contribution. Some would probably read a discussion of thouroughly worldly (read sinful) expressions. I'm of the opinion that those conversations are real life for the lost and don't repell me as such.
Anyway, I like to come here and haven't been here for about 5 months. I had been coming regualrly, but haven't been back for a while.
Corky is his name! I just found out, and I'm glad because I've been praying for Corky for several months to come to Christ, and I would hate to have thought I was praying for the wrong name, not that Jesus didn't know who I was talking about. And there's probably plenty of Corky's that need to be saved.
I received an e-mail from a ministry friend. In it she said, "I do not need to tell you that there are lots of churches in the area, but there are those that are not being reached because they are outside of the perimeter of the "churched." It would take a strong directive from the Lord and a lot of faith, but I am asking the Lord to lead you to the non-status quo, the edgy, so that the stereotype of church and Christianity can be broken so that the message can be heard. I don't know if you are comfortable with my prayer. "
Absolutely! I don't have any idea what that looks like, or more importantly LIVED like. But SRC should be concerned with the "UnChurched" than the churched. The mission doesn't include the churched. Our mission is clear:Make disciples (obviously not previous disciples), baptize them (the testimony to the "UnChurched" of real life change), and Teach them to obey (lives of obedience are outwardly focused to completing the mission) It's always focused on the mission.
If the Church was faithful to the great commission, church growth strategies would be out of relevance.
I don't know...Must be the coffee
--Ben
I love the atmosphere here. It is challenging to me to the sense of community that the world plugs into. Community is an area that I think the Church really needs to consider in order to really engage the culture. Community breeds new relationships. It's Corky (actually I haven't been able to get his name, but I hope I do today) asking the guy ordering at the counter what he thinks of the new bar across from the naval academy, and concluding, "I'd like to here your opinion when you go there."
What's contained in this discourse? The sharing of ideas and the invitation to contribution. Some would probably read a discussion of thouroughly worldly (read sinful) expressions. I'm of the opinion that those conversations are real life for the lost and don't repell me as such.
Anyway, I like to come here and haven't been here for about 5 months. I had been coming regualrly, but haven't been back for a while.
Corky is his name! I just found out, and I'm glad because I've been praying for Corky for several months to come to Christ, and I would hate to have thought I was praying for the wrong name, not that Jesus didn't know who I was talking about. And there's probably plenty of Corky's that need to be saved.
I received an e-mail from a ministry friend. In it she said, "I do not need to tell you that there are lots of churches in the area, but there are those that are not being reached because they are outside of the perimeter of the "churched." It would take a strong directive from the Lord and a lot of faith, but I am asking the Lord to lead you to the non-status quo, the edgy, so that the stereotype of church and Christianity can be broken so that the message can be heard. I don't know if you are comfortable with my prayer. "
Absolutely! I don't have any idea what that looks like, or more importantly LIVED like. But SRC should be concerned with the "UnChurched" than the churched. The mission doesn't include the churched. Our mission is clear:Make disciples (obviously not previous disciples), baptize them (the testimony to the "UnChurched" of real life change), and Teach them to obey (lives of obedience are outwardly focused to completing the mission) It's always focused on the mission.
If the Church was faithful to the great commission, church growth strategies would be out of relevance.
I don't know...Must be the coffee
--Ben
Friday, February 17, 2006
Fridyaaaaaa!
Wow, another week gone by. What a rush.
Meeting with Bill Chamberlin...
Yesterday I met with the pastor of Church At The Mall (www.churchatthemall.net) . We met at their Forest Dr. office and then headed to 3 Brothers Italian restaurant, where I had a fantastic Shrimp Ceaser salad.
It was so encouraging to hear from him about his experience replanting that church. He shared successes and failures he's had along the way. His outlook for the future. For instance, He shared that from his business experience (managment for GM) it takes 10 years to really get good at your job. He's half-way through, and excited for the years to come. He is trying to pull together a network of churches in prayer for a move of the Holy Spirit in this area, and I asked to be connected with it.
I look forward to meeting with Bill regularly as a co-laborer.
Excitement for meeting this weekend...
This weekend I get to host an information meeting with the people of PAG. It was postponed from last week because of snow. But it's exciting to gear up for it and share the vision that God's put on my heart.
--Ben
Meeting with Bill Chamberlin...
Yesterday I met with the pastor of Church At The Mall (www.churchatthemall.net) . We met at their Forest Dr. office and then headed to 3 Brothers Italian restaurant, where I had a fantastic Shrimp Ceaser salad.
It was so encouraging to hear from him about his experience replanting that church. He shared successes and failures he's had along the way. His outlook for the future. For instance, He shared that from his business experience (managment for GM) it takes 10 years to really get good at your job. He's half-way through, and excited for the years to come. He is trying to pull together a network of churches in prayer for a move of the Holy Spirit in this area, and I asked to be connected with it.
I look forward to meeting with Bill regularly as a co-laborer.
Excitement for meeting this weekend...
This weekend I get to host an information meeting with the people of PAG. It was postponed from last week because of snow. But it's exciting to gear up for it and share the vision that God's put on my heart.
--Ben
Thursday, February 16, 2006
The Blogosphere
Hey everyone.
Wow, I thought the only person who read this regularly was my dad. Then last night I was telling a friend about God answering prayers and pretty much repeated everything I've posted over the last couple days. When I was finished he said, "You know, I check your blog everyday." Then I felt stupid for repeating things he already knew. But then he said, "I like hearing it from you though. I like reading it, but I'd rather hear you talk about it."
Then when I got home last night, one of my best friends had posted a comment. I didn't know he was reading, but I'm happy to have the support of everyone reading. It would help me if from time to time you would leave a comment. That's the only way I know who's reading.
Thanks,
Ben
Wow, I thought the only person who read this regularly was my dad. Then last night I was telling a friend about God answering prayers and pretty much repeated everything I've posted over the last couple days. When I was finished he said, "You know, I check your blog everyday." Then I felt stupid for repeating things he already knew. But then he said, "I like hearing it from you though. I like reading it, but I'd rather hear you talk about it."
Then when I got home last night, one of my best friends had posted a comment. I didn't know he was reading, but I'm happy to have the support of everyone reading. It would help me if from time to time you would leave a comment. That's the only way I know who's reading.
Thanks,
Ben
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Keep it coming
Praise report from Matt…
Yesterday I got an e-mail from Matt. He told me that he was meeting with his pastor in PA to let him know the plan to come plant the church. He asked for prayer so I prayed for him. Matt really wanted his pastor to understand his heart. That he loved the church he’s at, but feels compelled to come partner in the new church. I received a text from him today saying that it had gone really well, and I’m glad to hear it.
A Prayer Partner at work…
I’ve been looking for a map of our target area only 4’ x 4’. I haven’t really mentioned it to anyone, just something I wanted. (I want to know this area better than anyone else. That is a personal goal of mine. I want to fully understand the culture to which I’m ministering.) Yesterday my secretary, Carol, mentioned her husband, Roger – one of my prayer partners- picked up a map from the Bank in Severna Park and had started praying for every street in our target area by name for SRC. (I love prayer partners). And its jut the kind of map I wanted. He gave me his and has started a research project with me to deliniate all the area churches on the map.
Unexpected blessings…
I believe that prayer partners fight against principalities and powers of the air for me. It’s amazing to me that already, in light of yesterday’s post, I’m receiving things I haven’t even prayed for. Churches like Cornerstone A/G in Bowie donating a printer. Then there’s the daughter of a friend who works for a direct mailing company, she knows someone in sales who has offered to reduce a direct mailing by the amount of her commission. God is providing, and I can’t wait to see how he continues to do exceedingly, abundantly more than I could ask or imagine.
Partnership and a kingdom view…
I talked with Noah today. Noah is lead pastor of a Mennonite church in Greenbelt. We’ve been in talks about how their church might partner with SRC. He mentioned it to his leadership team, and they are really excited about the possibility of partnering.
One of the team talked to Noah and told him this story (summed up for time). In the 1980’s a pastor of a local A/G church down in that area lived next door to the pastor of the church Noah now pastors. They grew a friendship and decided to partner together financially and in prayer to plant churches in Guyana. They were not Mennonite churches, not A/G churches, kinda just half and half partnership to start churches. The A/G district officials found out about it and told the A/G Pastor that his church was not permitted to participate because the churches being planted were not specifically A/G.
That story is heartbreaking, and while I know that the current leadership of our district has a greater vision for the Kingdom, it now has this church wondering if they are allowed to partner financially with us. Ridiculous! God give us a vision greater than a man-made denomination. I have credentials through the A/G and am proud to be part of it as an organization. I adhere to its 16 fundamental doctrines, and the church I’m planting is thoroughly A/G. But to miss the harvest field for the denomination is not what I’m about.
--Ben
Yesterday I got an e-mail from Matt. He told me that he was meeting with his pastor in PA to let him know the plan to come plant the church. He asked for prayer so I prayed for him. Matt really wanted his pastor to understand his heart. That he loved the church he’s at, but feels compelled to come partner in the new church. I received a text from him today saying that it had gone really well, and I’m glad to hear it.
A Prayer Partner at work…
I’ve been looking for a map of our target area only 4’ x 4’. I haven’t really mentioned it to anyone, just something I wanted. (I want to know this area better than anyone else. That is a personal goal of mine. I want to fully understand the culture to which I’m ministering.) Yesterday my secretary, Carol, mentioned her husband, Roger – one of my prayer partners- picked up a map from the Bank in Severna Park and had started praying for every street in our target area by name for SRC. (I love prayer partners). And its jut the kind of map I wanted. He gave me his and has started a research project with me to deliniate all the area churches on the map.
Unexpected blessings…
I believe that prayer partners fight against principalities and powers of the air for me. It’s amazing to me that already, in light of yesterday’s post, I’m receiving things I haven’t even prayed for. Churches like Cornerstone A/G in Bowie donating a printer. Then there’s the daughter of a friend who works for a direct mailing company, she knows someone in sales who has offered to reduce a direct mailing by the amount of her commission. God is providing, and I can’t wait to see how he continues to do exceedingly, abundantly more than I could ask or imagine.
Partnership and a kingdom view…
I talked with Noah today. Noah is lead pastor of a Mennonite church in Greenbelt. We’ve been in talks about how their church might partner with SRC. He mentioned it to his leadership team, and they are really excited about the possibility of partnering.
One of the team talked to Noah and told him this story (summed up for time). In the 1980’s a pastor of a local A/G church down in that area lived next door to the pastor of the church Noah now pastors. They grew a friendship and decided to partner together financially and in prayer to plant churches in Guyana. They were not Mennonite churches, not A/G churches, kinda just half and half partnership to start churches. The A/G district officials found out about it and told the A/G Pastor that his church was not permitted to participate because the churches being planted were not specifically A/G.
That story is heartbreaking, and while I know that the current leadership of our district has a greater vision for the Kingdom, it now has this church wondering if they are allowed to partner financially with us. Ridiculous! God give us a vision greater than a man-made denomination. I have credentials through the A/G and am proud to be part of it as an organization. I adhere to its 16 fundamental doctrines, and the church I’m planting is thoroughly A/G. But to miss the harvest field for the denomination is not what I’m about.
--Ben
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
Answered prayer
This morning as I was going through my prayer cards I decided that it was time for a new card for SRC. So I started writing. Here are the needs I listed:
* Help on putting together a Budget
* Strategic Planning
* Prayer Partners
* Favor
* Ongoing Success for PAG
* Financial Provision
* Information Meetings Feb. 19 and 26
* Communication and relationship with PAG leadership
But what really encouraged me was the reason for the new card. The old card was full of answered prayers. Let me list them:
* Approval for the Fall Launch: 1/10/06
* Help with the announcement speech: 1/29/06
* Decisiveness for Matt Boyer: 2/12/06
* Executive Bd. Approval: 1/10/06
* Positive church acceptance: 1/29/06
I think sometimes I spend a lot more time asking for more without taking time to thank God for what he has done. He has done great things!
--Ben
* Help on putting together a Budget
* Strategic Planning
* Prayer Partners
* Favor
* Ongoing Success for PAG
* Financial Provision
* Information Meetings Feb. 19 and 26
* Communication and relationship with PAG leadership
But what really encouraged me was the reason for the new card. The old card was full of answered prayers. Let me list them:
* Approval for the Fall Launch: 1/10/06
* Help with the announcement speech: 1/29/06
* Decisiveness for Matt Boyer: 2/12/06
* Executive Bd. Approval: 1/10/06
* Positive church acceptance: 1/29/06
I think sometimes I spend a lot more time asking for more without taking time to thank God for what he has done. He has done great things!
--Ben
Monday, February 13, 2006
Humbled
Dear reader,
A couple weeks ago, I posted regarding friends of mine who had been considering relocating to this area in order to partner with me to start the new church. Their names are Matt and Laurie Boyer. They currently live not far from Messiah College. Matt was a roomate of mine at Valley Forge. It was interesting to me because We had grown up only 20 minutes apart, but never actually met. He's originally from Bowie, MD, and I had seen him perform in Fine Arts Festival and he actually inspired me to get involved.
But we grew to be good friends at VFCC. I spoke at retreats for his youth ministry and he spoke for some for PAG.
It was at a retreat about a year ago in Gettysburg that I started talking to this couple about the church plant. Spsecifically, Matt was looking at some options of moving into a full-time position in youth ministry, and after telling me some of his options asked what I thought he should do.
I replied, "I think you should come and help me start a church outside of Annapolis." It was probably more of a joke at that point, but something resinated in me when I said it. And I found out a couple weeks later that it had resinated in him too. Thus began discussions that unfolded over 2005 and into 06.
Agonizing over the decision between the church they currently serve and the church plant, they eventually said no to SRC just as I posted.
Somehow I knew that wasn't the end. I prayed diligently for Matt and Laurie that God would bless them in their decision, but if they at any point felt drawn back to SRC that he would give them courage to call me.
Last Tuesday, Matt called me. They had found regret after their decision. Matt said, "When I talk about [my church], I say it's a good opportunity and we're happy here. When I talked about SRC I was excited because of the step of faith that it is."
Doors they expected to open after thier initial decision, closed instead. Matt called to ask if I would still like to have them come. I prayed about it all week and sought some counsel. It suddenly became very humbling that this promising young couple would come and serve, yet I have nothing to compensate them with.
We discussed it yesterday. I told him again, "Matt, I don't have any money for me, and I don't have any money for you. This is about faith." I just wanted to make sure he understood. His response was that they clearly understood that. And we made the agreement right then that they would come.
The first major twist in the story of SRC. How exciting! How Humling!
--Ben
A couple weeks ago, I posted regarding friends of mine who had been considering relocating to this area in order to partner with me to start the new church. Their names are Matt and Laurie Boyer. They currently live not far from Messiah College. Matt was a roomate of mine at Valley Forge. It was interesting to me because We had grown up only 20 minutes apart, but never actually met. He's originally from Bowie, MD, and I had seen him perform in Fine Arts Festival and he actually inspired me to get involved.
But we grew to be good friends at VFCC. I spoke at retreats for his youth ministry and he spoke for some for PAG.
It was at a retreat about a year ago in Gettysburg that I started talking to this couple about the church plant. Spsecifically, Matt was looking at some options of moving into a full-time position in youth ministry, and after telling me some of his options asked what I thought he should do.
I replied, "I think you should come and help me start a church outside of Annapolis." It was probably more of a joke at that point, but something resinated in me when I said it. And I found out a couple weeks later that it had resinated in him too. Thus began discussions that unfolded over 2005 and into 06.
Agonizing over the decision between the church they currently serve and the church plant, they eventually said no to SRC just as I posted.
Somehow I knew that wasn't the end. I prayed diligently for Matt and Laurie that God would bless them in their decision, but if they at any point felt drawn back to SRC that he would give them courage to call me.
Last Tuesday, Matt called me. They had found regret after their decision. Matt said, "When I talk about [my church], I say it's a good opportunity and we're happy here. When I talked about SRC I was excited because of the step of faith that it is."
Doors they expected to open after thier initial decision, closed instead. Matt called to ask if I would still like to have them come. I prayed about it all week and sought some counsel. It suddenly became very humbling that this promising young couple would come and serve, yet I have nothing to compensate them with.
We discussed it yesterday. I told him again, "Matt, I don't have any money for me, and I don't have any money for you. This is about faith." I just wanted to make sure he understood. His response was that they clearly understood that. And we made the agreement right then that they would come.
The first major twist in the story of SRC. How exciting! How Humling!
--Ben
Friday, February 10, 2006
Friday
In writing…
The following are a part of the agreements from the Deacon meeting. They are posted because they may answer questions that people have asked. Also, with the number of assumptions that float around, I’d rather have as much information available for people who may be prone to wonder.
1. We agreed with Pastor Ben’s proposal that, for purposes of clarity and understanding ALL agreements and commitments relative to SRC will be put in written form. If not in written form, they are not binding on either PAG or SRC.
2. We appointed Jim Elliott as the Deacon liaison to Pastor Ben for SRC
3. We will not be “sending” anyone to SRC from PAG, but we will release with God’s blessing anyone who feels led of the Lord to make such a commitment. We would not expect solicitation of specific people rather, we would expect that people of their own volition will express their desire to commit to SRC. At that time, Pastor Ben is free to pursue that commitment with them.
4. We agreed to endorse SRC as a PAG endorsed outreach so that people may donate monies to SRC and be able to claim them as legitimate charitable donations for IRS purposes.
5. Potential SRC members will be encouraged by both Pastor Ben and Pastor Foster to designate their tithes to PAG (their spiritual “storehouse”) until services commence at SRC (their new spiritual “storehouse”).
A partner ministry…
I talked with Bill Chamberlin yesterday. He is the pastor of Church At The Mall in Annapolis. I’m so excited to work with him. He has such a passion for Christ and the people of Annapolis. I’m meeting with him later this month to start praying together.
---Ben
The following are a part of the agreements from the Deacon meeting. They are posted because they may answer questions that people have asked. Also, with the number of assumptions that float around, I’d rather have as much information available for people who may be prone to wonder.
1. We agreed with Pastor Ben’s proposal that, for purposes of clarity and understanding ALL agreements and commitments relative to SRC will be put in written form. If not in written form, they are not binding on either PAG or SRC.
2. We appointed Jim Elliott as the Deacon liaison to Pastor Ben for SRC
3. We will not be “sending” anyone to SRC from PAG, but we will release with God’s blessing anyone who feels led of the Lord to make such a commitment. We would not expect solicitation of specific people rather, we would expect that people of their own volition will express their desire to commit to SRC. At that time, Pastor Ben is free to pursue that commitment with them.
4. We agreed to endorse SRC as a PAG endorsed outreach so that people may donate monies to SRC and be able to claim them as legitimate charitable donations for IRS purposes.
5. Potential SRC members will be encouraged by both Pastor Ben and Pastor Foster to designate their tithes to PAG (their spiritual “storehouse”) until services commence at SRC (their new spiritual “storehouse”).
A partner ministry…
I talked with Bill Chamberlin yesterday. He is the pastor of Church At The Mall in Annapolis. I’m so excited to work with him. He has such a passion for Christ and the people of Annapolis. I’m meeting with him later this month to start praying together.
---Ben
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Thursday's blog has far to go.
Website...
Drew Harrah volunteered to do our website. I was talking a bit with him last night. He has a graphic artist friend who is going to put together some ideas for our logo design. We were discussing Flash video. I'd like to have a panning shot of service at SRC, followed by a couple who introduce themselves followed by why they came to SRC --> fade back to church --> fade to dark screen with "Community, Transformation, Leadership Development."
Something like that. Any way, I think a high priority should be held in online communication and connection. Drew asked what I wanted the site to do/be. I told him I wanted to build a community online. That's kindof the vision for the website. Any input you have would be welcomed.
SRC's first expense...
Well, SRC picked up it's first expense yesterday. I bought postcard stock and stamps in order to send a reminder about the meetings this weekend and coming up on Feb. 26th. I'm sending them to people of PAG. Just a $68.00 reminder...ouch. No, actually it's not a significant amount, and I'm kinda excited that our first expense was for a communication tool. I think communication is so important, and often underutilized. I value transparency and disclosure a lot. I hope this blog communicates that.
Britney Spears...
Britney Spears is in the news for having driven her car with her son on her lap. Could she be the next Michael Jackson?
--Ben
Drew Harrah volunteered to do our website. I was talking a bit with him last night. He has a graphic artist friend who is going to put together some ideas for our logo design. We were discussing Flash video. I'd like to have a panning shot of service at SRC, followed by a couple who introduce themselves followed by why they came to SRC --> fade back to church --> fade to dark screen with "Community, Transformation, Leadership Development."
Something like that. Any way, I think a high priority should be held in online communication and connection. Drew asked what I wanted the site to do/be. I told him I wanted to build a community online. That's kindof the vision for the website. Any input you have would be welcomed.
SRC's first expense...
Well, SRC picked up it's first expense yesterday. I bought postcard stock and stamps in order to send a reminder about the meetings this weekend and coming up on Feb. 26th. I'm sending them to people of PAG. Just a $68.00 reminder...ouch. No, actually it's not a significant amount, and I'm kinda excited that our first expense was for a communication tool. I think communication is so important, and often underutilized. I value transparency and disclosure a lot. I hope this blog communicates that.
Britney Spears...
Britney Spears is in the news for having driven her car with her son on her lap. Could she be the next Michael Jackson?
--Ben
wednesday's post...on Thursday
Answered Prayer…
The Deacon board met last night at PAG. They took action on a list of proposals I presented. I was very thankful for the attitude exhibited by the board.
Family Matters…
Last night was my mother-in-law’s birthday party. It was nice to spend time with them. We went to Outback Steakhouse (my favorite). It had been over a month since I had had dinner with them. Very unusual, but with AGTS and SRC, there’s just been little time.
Meeting with potential partner…
Today I went to Greenbelt and had lunch with a potential partner. It is a very special partnership because it is a Mennonite church. I’m very excited about the idea of a partnership crossing denominational lines. The fact is the kingdom of God is bigger than the Assemblies of God. As this church looks ahead to a plant in 07-08, they’d like to meet with me over the next year in order that they may plan, and get the perspective a planter, local and going through it.
A man with a burden…
Today I met with a man who started attending PAG a long time ago. The day that we announced the plant he wanted to meet with me, because when he had first come to PAG he told Pastor Phil he felt we ought to plant a church down there. Now all these years later it’s finally happening. He is very excited and has committed to be a prayer partner with our church.
Prayer needs…
Pray for me to be able to manage my time. Chaos is driving my schedule, and I don’t like it that way. I’m taking steps to discipline myself, but please pray for me.
Pray for the Lord’s provision of all we need. Praise the Lord! Cornerstone A/G has donated a laser printer for our church plant.
The Deacon board met last night at PAG. They took action on a list of proposals I presented. I was very thankful for the attitude exhibited by the board.
Family Matters…
Last night was my mother-in-law’s birthday party. It was nice to spend time with them. We went to Outback Steakhouse (my favorite). It had been over a month since I had had dinner with them. Very unusual, but with AGTS and SRC, there’s just been little time.
Meeting with potential partner…
Today I went to Greenbelt and had lunch with a potential partner. It is a very special partnership because it is a Mennonite church. I’m very excited about the idea of a partnership crossing denominational lines. The fact is the kingdom of God is bigger than the Assemblies of God. As this church looks ahead to a plant in 07-08, they’d like to meet with me over the next year in order that they may plan, and get the perspective a planter, local and going through it.
A man with a burden…
Today I met with a man who started attending PAG a long time ago. The day that we announced the plant he wanted to meet with me, because when he had first come to PAG he told Pastor Phil he felt we ought to plant a church down there. Now all these years later it’s finally happening. He is very excited and has committed to be a prayer partner with our church.
Prayer needs…
Pray for me to be able to manage my time. Chaos is driving my schedule, and I don’t like it that way. I’m taking steps to discipline myself, but please pray for me.
Pray for the Lord’s provision of all we need. Praise the Lord! Cornerstone A/G has donated a laser printer for our church plant.
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Small Group
Small group went really well last night. I was hapy to be part of one again. It felt great having 4 couples together to talk about God's word and share experiences. I was happy with the level of transparency. For the first time some of them met, they were very transparent.
Small groups are so important to the way we become like Christ. I will never be without a small group for the rest of my life. It is that critical to my spiritual growth. I believe it is the biblical scenario for discipleship.
The reason is because of waiting together. Community, Transformation, and Leadership Development doesn't happen like a microwave. We have to be slow cooked.
--Ben
Small groups are so important to the way we become like Christ. I will never be without a small group for the rest of my life. It is that critical to my spiritual growth. I believe it is the biblical scenario for discipleship.
The reason is because of waiting together. Community, Transformation, and Leadership Development doesn't happen like a microwave. We have to be slow cooked.
--Ben
Friday, February 03, 2006
Is Time on my side?
The Rolling Stones...
The Rolling Stones are playing the half-time show for the superbowl. I've heard Motown is pretty upset, considering the game is in Detroit. I don't think Time is on their side anymore. When you look at how old, gnarly, and ugly they are, you realize why a fan in Baltimore responded to why he spent so much money on a ticket, to see the band in Baltimore this year, "this is a once in a lifetime opportunity." I say, "Right in once in the bands lifetime."
Anyway, I'm looking at my own schedule lately, and wondering if time is on my side. The addition of the church plant to my life is really complicating my schedule, and I'm working to control my calendar. There is an addage in leadership circles that states, "If you don't control your calendar everyone else will." I believe that I'm called to honor God with every part of my life. (every person is) So I want to show my commitment to his principles in my Checkbook and in my Outlook (Microsoft daytiming software). So that's what I'm working on.
Strategic Planning...
Part of that time crunch comes in Strategic Planning for the new church. I could lock myself up for a week and have a pretty good start. Strategic Planning seeks to analyze every part of the new church plan and find every action step that needs to be taken. For instance, you start with the question, "What will the new church look like 3 months in?" Strategic Planning takes that panorama and asks, "What needs to be done from the launch date till then to see that happen?" Then asks, "What needs to happen between launch and now to make that happen?" All of those details need to be deliniated so that each part is prepared.
I heard a quote today that said, "If you have a vision and don't write a plan, if you have a goal and don't take action steps, you only have a daydream." --Gary Felton
I'm working to make this dream a reality. "Pray like it all depends on God, work like it all depends on you." --unknown
Coaching Update...
I'm thankful for the coach God has given me. Keith Edwards challenges me to think through things that I can't drive myself to think through. My assingments going forward are to select a Board for oversite of the new church and continue strategic planning. I also have to give a report to Keith regarding how much time during the week the church is going to give me to work on the new church, as I continue working my responsibilities at PAG.
Prayer Requests...
Pray for the Board of PAG. They are setting to work on answering questions still unanswered regarding finacial support, time management, and timeline.
Pray for me to have wisdom regarding the Strategic Planning. "But wisdom is proven right by her actions" Matt. 11:19
The Rolling Stones are playing the half-time show for the superbowl. I've heard Motown is pretty upset, considering the game is in Detroit. I don't think Time is on their side anymore. When you look at how old, gnarly, and ugly they are, you realize why a fan in Baltimore responded to why he spent so much money on a ticket, to see the band in Baltimore this year, "this is a once in a lifetime opportunity." I say, "Right in once in the bands lifetime."
Anyway, I'm looking at my own schedule lately, and wondering if time is on my side. The addition of the church plant to my life is really complicating my schedule, and I'm working to control my calendar. There is an addage in leadership circles that states, "If you don't control your calendar everyone else will." I believe that I'm called to honor God with every part of my life. (every person is) So I want to show my commitment to his principles in my Checkbook and in my Outlook (Microsoft daytiming software). So that's what I'm working on.
Strategic Planning...
Part of that time crunch comes in Strategic Planning for the new church. I could lock myself up for a week and have a pretty good start. Strategic Planning seeks to analyze every part of the new church plan and find every action step that needs to be taken. For instance, you start with the question, "What will the new church look like 3 months in?" Strategic Planning takes that panorama and asks, "What needs to be done from the launch date till then to see that happen?" Then asks, "What needs to happen between launch and now to make that happen?" All of those details need to be deliniated so that each part is prepared.
I heard a quote today that said, "If you have a vision and don't write a plan, if you have a goal and don't take action steps, you only have a daydream." --Gary Felton
I'm working to make this dream a reality. "Pray like it all depends on God, work like it all depends on you." --unknown
Coaching Update...
I'm thankful for the coach God has given me. Keith Edwards challenges me to think through things that I can't drive myself to think through. My assingments going forward are to select a Board for oversite of the new church and continue strategic planning. I also have to give a report to Keith regarding how much time during the week the church is going to give me to work on the new church, as I continue working my responsibilities at PAG.
Prayer Requests...
Pray for the Board of PAG. They are setting to work on answering questions still unanswered regarding finacial support, time management, and timeline.
Pray for me to have wisdom regarding the Strategic Planning. "But wisdom is proven right by her actions" Matt. 11:19
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