A Shovel's Job

What is Universalism?

2011-03-12T14:25:00.000-08:00

As I defined in my last post, Universalism is the thought that all people will eventually be saved and living for eternity in God’s presence.

The theory of Universalism is first found in the writings of Origen (c. 185-254). Origen, one of the first Christian theologians suggested that, “even Satan himself would eventually be welcomed into everlasting bliss.”(1) Throughout the middle ages, the theory dissipated but since the enlightenment, the theory has reemerged.

Universalists use the following arguments in scripture to support their claim:
- Jesus brings justification to all | Romans 5:12-21
- “For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.” | 1 Corinthians 15:20-26a
- All will be saved | 1 Tim 2:4; 4:10; 2 Pet 3:9
- Christ’s atonement is intended for all | 2 Cor 5:19; Titus 2:11; Heb 2:9l; 1 John 2:2
- God’s will is for all creation with its fullness in Christ | John 12:32; Eph 1:10; Col 1:16-23
- Final restoration of all persons of God | Acts 3:19-21; Phil 2:9-11

Here are three primary questions from Universalists followed by common responses:

Q1: How can a loving God possibly send people to eternal torment? All must agree this is a complex question. The primary argument is this: If God is love (1 John 4:16), it is therefore impossible for him to torment, as it would contradict his very character. It’s not fair, not just, and not like God. How can God be just and allow eternal punishment? It is important to point out that this question is also at the heart of Annihilationism.

Answer: How one understands God’s justice is very relevant to this debate. A common answer for the above question looks something like this: God’s principles of justice are outside humanities. In 2 Thessalonians 1:6 it says that, “God is just. He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you.” In Job 34:12-15 it says, “The Almighty will not pervert justice. Who gave him charge over the earth, and who laid on him the whole world? If he should set his heart to it and gather to himself his spirit and his breath, all flesh would perish together and man would return to dust.” If God so chooses, his justice may be to end a life. God is just. Moreover, in Matthew 8:29, demons fear Jesus had come to torture them saying, “Have you come here to torture us before the appointed time?” The demons understood that torture was inevitable for them as enemies of God. This understanding of justice does not equate with humanity today. The problem is that theologians attempt to box God into their understanding of justice and when this fails, they flail their hands and question His justice. For “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” and “the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”(2) Humanity justly deserves eternal punishment, but by God’s grace, some receive eternal life.

Q2: How can one’s earthly choices determine how they spend eternity? This deliberation, “leads (universalists) to conclude that in the next life God will continue to draw all people to himself until everyone freely responds to his invitation and so participates in his new world.”(3)

Answer: First, the bible says that there is no hope for people to cross from hell to heaven after they have died. The story about the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31 makes this clear, “between us (heaven) and you (hell) a great chasm has been fixed” so that no one may cross over either way. Second, the bible says that how one spends eternity is based on what happens in this life, not what is done after death.(4) And third, Jesus says in the parable of the sheep and goats that based on how we treat others we will either receive, “eternal punishment or eternal life.”(5)

Q3: Doesn’t the Greek word for eternity (aion) also mean “age” or “period of time?” Therefore, we can’t conclude that scriptural references to eternal judgment are sound.

Answer: As defined by the most trusted Greek dictionary, Louw-Nida, aion is defined as “pertaining to an unlimited duration of time.”(6) When translating Greek, context is king. For example, in Matt 25:46 “eternal punishment or eternal life,” use the same word, aionion. If aion means “period of time,” than one must reject heaven as well. Additionally, if we replace eternal with “period of time” in John 3:16, we get “For God so loved the world that He sent His only Son so that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have life for a period of time.” Probably wouldn’t be the most famous ever with this translation.

A Universalist is often driven by their love to see people saved. They reject the notion that there is only one way to God. Often a Universalist will say something like, “all people believe in Jesus, they just don’t fully understand it to be Him right now.”

A post on Annihilationism coming soon.

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

References:
1. Grenz, Stanely J. Theology for the Community of God. Nashville: Broadman and Holman, 1994. 827.
2. Rom 3:23 and Rom 6:23
3. Grenz, Stanely J. Theology for the Community of God. Nashville: Broadman and Holman, 1994. 830.
4. Matt 25:31-46; Rom 2:5-10
5. Matthew 25: 31-46
6. Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains, electronic ed. of the 2nd edition., 1:641 (New York: United Bible societies, 1996, c1989).

What is Hell?

2011-03-09T09:25:00.000-08:00

So I just wrote a paper on Hell. It was one hell of a paper.

With all the debate surrounding Rob Bell’s new book (see below), I thought of giving a brief description of the debate, which team believe what, and why this is important. I’ve chosen not to weigh in on the Rob Bell’s book specifically because his book has not come out. I’m going to take four posts to tackle this issue.

The paradox of Hell is that its popularity is rivaled by its unpopularity. In the sphere of the postmodern church world, to hear a pastor preach on Hell is like hearing a Baptist speak in tongues, you just don’t hear it. However, in the sphere of evangelical theological debate, the topic of Hell is as fiery as ever. The debate teams are the following: (1) Universalists; (2) Annihilationists; (3) Eternalists (The term “eternalists” I created that encompasses both the literal and metaphorical view of hell). Let’s examine one at a time.

In brief, here are the definitions of each:

Universalism: all people will eventually be saved and live for eternity in God’s presence.

Annihilationism: There are two teams within Annihilationism. (1) After death, those that reject Christ are immediately “annihilated” or as my Grandpa likes to say, “gone 6 feet under, and that’s it.” (2) After death, those that reject Christ receive a period of punishment based on the sins committed on earth and once their punishment is complete they seize to exist.

Eternalism: Again, two teams: (1) After death, those that reject Christ are sent to Hell, a place of torment and horrific punishment; how exactly that looks we are not sure (metaphorical), (2) Hell is a literal eternal fire where weeping and gnashing of teeth literally occur.

I hoping to take the next three posts to provide the primary arguments from each group. Hope you can track with me and comment if you can.

Here are the details about the debate surrounding Rob Bell’s book. Again, I don't want to discuss this here as the book has not come out but just so you're aware of what's going on. If you want to comment here, keep it to the debate above. Thanks.

Rob Bell video: https://www.robbell.com/lovewins/
Opposing Bell: http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/justintaylor/2011/02/26/rob-bell-universalist/
In response to opposition: http://blog.beliefnet.com/omeoflittlefaith/2011/02/thoughts-rob-bell.html

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Justin Bieber or Jesus?

2011-03-02T19:02:00.000-08:00

What’s harder, being a Justin Bieber fan or a Jesus fan?

Everyone now knows. Recently, it came out that one of my buddies likes Justin Bieber. We were in a large group of people and I might have slipped up and let his secret out. Instead of denying it, he simply proclaimed:

“Its true, I like Justin Bieber!”

For a 21-year dude to admit this to a group, it’s bold, it’s risky and it takes a lot of self-confidence. For that, I applaud this man! The galleries reaction was obvious…oh no…man down, man down! Dudes exchanged grinning looks around the room. A few comments were made, none as good as, “dudes gots the feva!” or “baby, baby, no!” Our friend was now an outlier.

But I got thinking how that impacted my friend. How did these reactions affect his fanhood? Interestingly, those eye-piercing exchanges, those witty comments and the awkwardness in the room all led to this: my friend’s fever to be a stronger belieber GREW! He was now segregated as a minority and guess what, it made him stronger. It’s a big reason Bieber is famous – you either love him or hate him. And those on either side band together and their fever grows.

And then it hit me:

Bieber fever is more contagious than Jesus fever.

In the world of Post-Modern Global North, when I say I like Jesus, people MIGHT exchange mocking looks, and MIGHT think differently of me, but most likely they’ll reply, “good for you. I’m glad you have something to believe in.” More and more people don’t care what you believe and its impact on people’s faith in Jesus is devastating.

I want something to rally behind! Deep down, I want to be on the fringes and believe in something radical. It fuels me. Its why solders in war become like brothers. Their fight together bonds them.

More and more people like Justin Bieber because more and more people hate Justin Bieber. More and more don’t like Jesus because more and more don’t care whether you like him or not.

Why: Because our message of Jesus has been so polluted no one cares.

When someone teaches that Jesus is always happy, avoids conflict, forgives everyone and doesn’t send anyone to hell, they don’t get it! Deep down, people don’t want that Jesus. They want radical Jesus. The real Jesus! People want to follow someone who is on edge, who pushes the status quo, who is drastic. People want to follow someone who stands before leaders and calls them out (Matt 23). People want to follow someone that only few can because it’s so intense (Luke 13:22-30). People want to follow someone that is so radical it threatens their life (John 19). Jesus is that and so much more. And it is this message people need to hear!

People want to be hard-core fans. And frankly, with the Jesus many teach today, most would rather follow Justin Bieber than Jesus.

For Jesus’ fame,
James

Can God change his mind?

2011-02-28T08:58:00.000-08:00

We've been talking a lot about Prayer with our church community at Lincoln Road. The big theological question I've been wrestling with is this:

Can God change his mind? And how does this impact why I pray?

What I struggle with are the scriptures that say God changed his mind because of the cry and plea of the people. For example, when God gives Moses the 10 Commandments and Moses comes down from the Mountain and finds the people worshipping the Golden Calf they made, the bible says that God was so fiercely angry he wanted to destroy the nation but Moses pleaded with him and the bible said God "changed his mind" Exodus 32:14 (or also Jonah 3, Deut 32:36, Jer 26:13; 19)

It seems that in the Jeremiah passages God changes his mind by people stopping to sin and repenting.

THAN, in numbers 23:19 it says God "does not change his mind" ...... now I havn't studied the context of these statements in depth but at first read they seem to cause some issues. (Also, 1 Sam 15:29, Job 23:13, Isa 31:2)

BUT with Hebrews 6:17 it seems to be saying that with the things that God promises he will not change his mind but for the things that he has not promised, perhaps he can change his mind?

Our resolve to this issue dramatically impacts our prayer life. If God can change his mind, then prayer has a clearer purpose it seems. But if God knows what I need before I ask him (Matt 6:8) and He controls my destiny (Job 23:14) than why pray?

My friend Pete pointed me to Luke 22:31-34 that says Jesus prayed that Peter's faith would stand up instead of denying him three times....well Peter did deny Jesus three times. What was the impact? Peter grew in humility and his faith did grow but he needed the denying to occur to receive that humility it seems.

Interesting stuff. Any additional thoughts?

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Holy Spirit...huh?

2011-02-18T10:44:00.001-08:00

What is or who is the Holy Spirit? Christians talk about it. The world talks about "spirits." Alright, what's what. Or who's who?

So I've had a few posts on Holy Spirit thus far, but I haven't addressed the biblical background of the Holy Spirit. In order to go into a little more depth, I'll explain who the Holy Spirit is, what the Holy Spirit does and examine four general categories of the Spirit in scripture: Spirit in Torah, Spirit in Prophets; Spirit in New Testament; and Spirit Tradition.

WHO is the Holy Spirt?
The Holy Spirit is a person. One of the members of the Trinity. You have God the Father, God the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit. The H.S. is God living in one that believes and accepts Jesus as Lord of their life and starts following what he teaches in scripture. (1 Cor 3:16; John 14:16-18)

WHAT does the Holy Spirit Do?
1. The Holy Spirit Empowers. He gives life (John 6:63). He gives power to serve (1 Sam 16:13; Luke 4:18-19; Acts 1:8)
2. The Holy Spirit Purifies. He sanctifies (1 Cor 6:11; 2 Thess 2:13).
3. The Holy Spirit Reveals. The future (2 Peter 1:21). Himself (John 1:32; Acts 2:2-3). Direction in our life (Rom 8:14; Acts 8:29; Acts 20:22-23). Sin (John 16:8-11).
4. The Holy Spirit Teaches. Learning (John 14:26). And guides (John 16:13).

Spirit in Torah:
In Genesis 1:2 we read, "Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters." The Spirit of God is counselor even in the beginning of the world.
Genesis 1:7 "the Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life and the man became a living being" The word breathe in Hebrew is the same as Spirit on many occasions. It is the Spirit that gives life. (Gen 8; Ex 14-15)

Spirit in Prophets:
Ezekiel 36 & 37: "I will give you a new heart and new spirit" There is a story in Ezekiel 37 about how God gives new life through the Holy Spirit. And in the Isaiah passages below we learn that the Holy Spirit was going to be pivotal with the coming Messiah.
Isa 11:1-9; Isa 40:13; Isa 42:1-9; Isa 61:1-3; Psalm 33:6; Job 26:12-13
-The Holy Spirit was present in the O.T., even in people, but it took on a new form in the N.T. through the death of Jesus. Now, the Holy Spirit was offered to all.

Spirit in New Testament:
Matt 3:1-12 John the Baptizer tells us that the one coming (Jesus) will give the Holy Spirit in its truest form.
Acts 1:1-11 According to Luke, the Holy Spirit was pivotal to the gospels.
Acts 2 Holy Spirit comes as tongues of fire enabling disciples to preach in a bunch of languages.
1 Cor 6:19 Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit - shows a deep dynamic of the H.S. in believers in Jesus

Spirit in Christian Tradition:
Tertullian was a early church theologian. He was the first to point out the concept of the Trinity (one person, three substance)
Augustine, probably one of the most influential theologians is Christian history, taught that the Spirit was (1) Holy, (2) love, (3) a gift
It wasn't until the rise of Pentecostalism roughly 100 years ago that the Holy Spirit started getting recognition in theological circles.

Our systematics class is now moving onto speaking of salvation, particularly theories of atonement, which is directly connected to the course I took last semester on the Theology of the Cross. If you have any questions about the Holy Spirt, please fire away!

For Jesus' fame,
JK

How to Really Live...In Response to Evil People | Jan 30 2011 Lincoln Road

2011-02-07T14:38:00.000-08:00

Sermon up from last Sunday.

Podcast Description:
Eye for an Eye or Turn the Other Cheek. Both may seem like extremes. Jesus taught and lived out the latter. Jesus taught to live active non-violence. The challenge is attainable. Are we up for the challenge?

I used this picture in the sermon, might be helpful.

Listen Here.

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Free Budget Template

2011-02-05T10:58:00.001-08:00

Why do people budget? What's the point? Can't I just spend and hope things work out....

Over the last week the topic of budgeting has come up a few times and I thought it would be valuable to some people to have some helpful resources on budgeting.

Karen and I keep a budget. In it we put everything money related. How much we have, how much we owe, how much we give, and how much we spend. It helps us see how much we need to save that month. It helps us find effective ways to bring down debt. It helps us not feel guilty if we go out for dinner because we know we have saved and budgeted for it. And honestly, it helps us stay organized and limit fights and tension (#1 reason for fights in marriages has to do with money).

Here's some budgeting related text I think encourage us to plan ahead and be good stewards of what God has entrusted in our care:
Luke 14:28-30: "For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost."
Proverbs 27:12: "A sensible man watches for problems ahead and prepares to meet them."
Proverbs 15:22: "Without consultation, plans are frustrated, but with many counselors they succeed."
That's 3 of about 300 related verses.

There is so much more I would love to say about this, but for now, here are two resources to point you to.

DOWNLOAD THIS:
Kelly Home Budget Template Find the "download" button on the page. Feel free to share as well.

CHECK OUT THIS:
Dave Ramsey Budget - This site is very helpful with anything money related. Dave is a Christian Money Expert. Check out this site.

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Free John Piper Books

2011-02-02T17:22:00.000-08:00

Since I got a Kindle for Christmas, I've started doing some searching online for free books. And very quickly I came across this:

http://www.desiringgod.org/resource-library/online-books/by-title

Here is almost everything author and Pastor John Piper has ever written. If you look around on the site, you will find almost everything he has ever preached as well.

Who is John Piper? John Piper is first a pastor/preacher and second a writer. Interestingly, a few months ago he decided to take one year off because he felt his pride was festering and he needed a rest (extended Sabbath). You see, he was becoming so big within Reformed theological circles, people were filtering what they believed through him instead of the bible. Anyways, his sermons, books and articles have impacted this generation in a huge way and he has blessed many people by making all his content free.

So click on the link above and download some pdf's and start reading. Also, I wanted to recommend one book in particular that I think you would really benefit from reading.

50 Reasons Jesus Came To Die by John Piper
- I just completed a course called "The Theology of the Cross" in December. Before starting that course I read this book. It gave me a great overview of some key theologies around the purpose of Christ's death and what it meant. Since reading this and taking the course, my appreciation for Jesus' death has shot through the roof. Moreover, I find simple songs now profound when speaking of Jesus Christ's death. Highly recommend this book!

Pass this on. Would be great to get the word out on these great resources. Either just send someone the link or click below to redirect them here through facebook, blogger, and a few others social networks. Peace!

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Actively Expose Sin Nonviolently

2011-02-01T06:35:00.000-08:00

For the longest time, whenever someone would use the word "nonviolent" I thought they were just totally passive and didn't have the .... to stand up for themselves. I judged them no doubt and wrongly so. Why, because of the bible and in particular Matthew 5:38-42 and guess what:

Jesus was Nonviolent.

Now that doesn't mean we was a wuss that didn't step up to action. Quite the contrary. Jesus was like the hero of an action movie...minus the guns, nudity and f-bombs. But what blows me away is how creatively he was active in dealing with violence.

Take Matthew 5:41 for example. Jesus says, "If a dude sues you for your undies, give him the rest of your clothes too" (James' bible remix version). What was Jesus teaching? Well, first, we know he was teaching to "give more than expected." Yes, we get that. But knowing the context of Jesus' time actually gives us an incredible insight!

Picture this (well maybe not actually, so wait, don't picture this but think about it...), a man is in court and has been wrongfully sued for one half of his clothes. How will he deal with this injustice? He gives the second half, thus standing totally nude before his prosecutor, the judge, the typewriter person, the jury and maybe even his mom (kinda awkward...again, don't picture this) Well besides maybe a little weird, this man is actually making a HUGE point!

At this time, it was more shameful to look upon a person naked in public than it was to be the one without clothes (just read Gen 9:18-29)! This man forces his persecutor to reflect on his actions. Reflect on his sin. Reflect on the shame and guilt of the situation and how he caused it. He dealt with injustice by actively exposing sin in a creative way and without violence. WOW!

The other examples from Matthew 5:38-42 share a common denominator: Jesus teaches us to deal with violence and injustice by actively exposing sin nonviolently. He was his best example (women caught in adultery, voluntarily walking to his death, and many more).

How does this relate to life today? How do you think?

For Jesus' fame,
JK

How to Handle Busy

2011-01-27T20:19:00.000-08:00

Back in October, I wrote a post on how busy ≠ important. My whole point was that I believe when we use the language of busy, we often times think we're important for saying so.

The question I'm wrestling with now is how do we handle the constant feeling of, "I should be doing something" or "I don't have time for this." Where does this come from? What causes it? Is it right? How do you stop it? Should you stop it?

Karen and I are both in a stage of life where we feel like every minute could be spent doing something. We both have variables that need to get done on our own time. There is always something to do or something due. I think you can relate. Whether its school work, cleaning, meeting with people, planning something. Whatever it is, there is always something you can be doing right?

Is it wrong? I don't believe so. But if its not controlled, than we will crash. For this reason, I believe systems like Sabbath, dinner together without distractions, and going to bed at a regular time are critical to success. I believe its knowing that slowing down is O.K.! I believe its knowing that, "look, you don't need to be the next Billy Graham, Steve Jobs, or Justin Bieber......" Its ok.

So how do we handle busy? For me, I try to understand my priorities, stay disciplined, slow down at the right times, and trust God will take care of me.

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Discipline: That Good Pain

2011-01-15T07:27:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow morning I am teaching our little kids at Lincoln Road Chapel. The memory verse has has been seriously blowing me away:

“No Discipline seems pleasant at the time but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Hebrews 12:11

Seriously, if you have a bible you've GOT to get it out and read Hebrews chapter 12. Or click here.

These are what I call BEAUTIFUL and HARD TRUTHS. They are beautiful in that they blow me away and stir me up to fight sin, endure discipline, and know that God disciplines out of pure love. Conversely, they are hard because, well, they just are. It is not easy to fight sin. It is not easy to endure discipline. It is not easy to recognize the good when I only see pain.

But God disciplines the one's he loves. He disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.

So let us endure hardship with Christ at our side. Not only accept discipline from God when it comes, but recognize the importance of disciplining others with love and respect.

Oh, another thing. I recently heard a line about friendship/discipline/accountability that totally rocked my world. Here's my paraphrase of it: "A great friend is willing to be hated for a time for the sake of healing for a life time."

A great friend will call out another friend of sin, not to condone, but to point them to God out of love. Are we willing to be that friend to another?

Love you guys,

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Eye for Eye or Turn the Other Cheek?

2011-01-12T10:41:00.000-08:00

One of the most debated sections of scripture is undoubtably Matthew 5:38-42.

38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.' 39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. 40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. 41If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

What do we do with this?

Do not resist an evil person? If someone punches me in the face, should I not defend myself?

If a beggar on the streets asks for money, should I give him/her what they want?

If I am forced against my own will, is Jesus telling me to keep going and not resist?

What do we do with this?

How would you approach answering these questions?

For Jesus' fame,
James

Endurance: All Leaders Need It!

2011-01-09T12:22:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading the book Endurance by Alfred Lansing. In August of 1914, a polar explorer and powerful leader by the name of Ernest Shackleton sought to make history by crossing the Antarctica on foot. After five months and only miles away from the foot crossing, Shackleton’s ice boat, Endurance, was ice locked. The book relives the epic adventure back home to South Georgia.

Not only was I captivated by adventure, I was learning a heck of a lot about powerful leadership, relentless drive, and personal grace.

Leadership
What makes a great leader? The amazing ability to make difficult decisions at critical times all the while, the ability to get the right people “in the boat.” Shackleton made countless do or die decisions that saved lives. Moreover, he had a special intuition to select and foster capable men to get the job done. Leaders must learn to made difficult decisions and learn how to select the right people.

Drive
Shackleton was the first one ready to do anything. He led by example and led with courage and honor; from the smallest of things to the biggest. I have much to learn in this area as already I have felt a job is “under me” and needed to seriously repent of that. A leader must have the drive to do whatever it takes to get the job done.

Grace
I felt so privileged to live where I live and have what I have. I do not deserve it. Just to have a variety of foods. Not to worry about whether I will survive the next day due to lack of food, shelter or water. To have security that weather will not end my life. It is by God’s grace I live so free and fortunate. The men on this voyage were not so fortunate.

Leaders in particular must have great endurance. And how does one build endurance? Keep running the race marked out for you!

For Jesus’ fame,
James

Preaching Resources

2011-01-05T09:30:00.000-08:00

As the new semester starts, I noticed a major majority of my time is going to be connected to preaching/teaching these coming months. I am starting a class on Preaching at McMaster. I have a preaching team meeting at Lincoln Road Chapel every Wednesday, working through Haddon W. Robinson's Biblical Preaching.

I will be preaching at least once in the next few months on Sunday and teaching our Sunday School kids four times. And we are preparing to unveil a brand new idea for our Lincoln Preaching Class for this coming term. I praying this class/event explodes!

With all this in mind, I was looking over my preaching resources and was hoping to get some additional recommendations from you. Any websites? Any books? Any online tools? Any preachers you like to listen too? Anything preaching related that you've seen or heard that you'd recommend I look into. Anything that comes to mind, I would really love to hear!

I'm hoping to get a number of preaching posts out over this term as well, so if this interests you at all, stay tooned!

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Hawaii & Theology - not again!

2011-01-03T08:27:00.000-08:00

It was May 25th, 2009. I was walking into a dark dreary room filled with Masters of Divinity Students eager to learn Theology. Me? Well, I was 1 day returned from a 2 week trip from Hawaii on my Honeymoon...

I was walking into a one week intensive course called Systematic Theology 1 were we studied primary categories of Christianity: the Trinity (study of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit), Christology (study of Jesus Christ), Anthropology (study of human), Revelation and Creation. On one hand it was awesome because I love this stuff, on the other...I just came from my honeymoon in Hawaii...

Tomorrow I am starting the second half of that course. We are looking at the doctrines of pneumatology (study of the Holy Spirit), soteriology (study of salvation), ecclesiology (study of the church) and eschatology (study of end times). I know, fancy names for basic stuff, but it helps when talking about these things.

I've got so many questions about ever category like:

Pneumatology: what thoughts that I have are from the Holy Spirit, compared to say mine?
Soteriology: what are details to the arguments in the debate "once saved always saved"?
Ecclesiology: what are the different ways of "doing church" and what might work best in N.A.?
Eschatology: what are the signs that Jesus is coming back?

I would love to hear other questions you may have about these categories. I can bring them up in class over the next semester and get back to you. Fire away. Or if you want to take a crack at answering some of these, fire away.

For Jesus' fame,

2010-2011 A Year in Review

2011-01-01T07:14:00.000-08:00

At 12:10, Karen and I and a handful of friends prayed in the New Year together. We thanked God for the year that has come and gone and looked forward to the year ahead.

This past year, I have put more in my head than I think any other year. From deep theology to lessons on marriage.

Took Ethics & Character, History of Christianity 2, Study of the Old Testament, Greek, Biblical Theology and Theology of the Cross. During this time I asked a lot of questions like these:

how should a pastor be paid?
why do you live where you live? (Pride, Price, Personal Comfort, People)
should you be wealthy or poor?
should women be pastors?
What is your Purpose in Life?
How will you be remembered when you die?

I started this blog doing a series on History of Christianity, Catalyst Moments, 1 Kings, Paul Series, Theology of the Cross, and lots and lots of random stuff!

Preached 4 Sermons

Won a few Ultimate frisbee championships.

Went to a marriage conference in Collingwood and went to a number of weddings.

But there were many trials this year, undoubtably the hardest year of my life. Wish I could go more into it but God is Good and His love endures forever. I trust in him and believe he has great things in store.

As 2011 begins today my prayer is that I can stay faithful to God, listening to the Holy Spirit attentively, seeking not my own glory but Gods, and trusting in God with all my heart. I know trials await but without trials I wouldn't understand love.

Love you guys!

For Jesus' fame,

Decision Points & Week Recap

2010-12-16T11:58:00.000-08:00

What a week its been.

Sunday afternoon, Karen and I drove up to Collingwood, Ontario, a ski village a few hours north of Waterloo, where we live. The plan was to spend a night visiting my family, drive back Monday afternoon, study a bit more, and write my final exam Tuesday morning......... didn't happen.

Essentially, a storm hit us that was so intense we were stuck for a few extra days, literally unable to come home as the roads we're closed. Rescheduling my exam a number of times while trying to enjoy the crazy snow, lets say it was a bitter sweet few days. But as Sunday was my birthday, I received a few presents, one in particular I am interested to discuss here.

One gift I received was George W. Bush's autobiography called Decision Points. I find I'm really getting into Politics lately. I've never been a huge politics guy, but I know its important and just recently I've been finding it extremely interesting. Of course, with Bush being the President of the U.S. for 8 years, and all the controversy that surrounds him, I am very interested to read this book.

All I've read thus far is the preface and some of the intro. His opening line is this, "It was a simple question. "Can you remember the last day you didn't have a drink?" He talks openly about his drinking problems, his conversion to Christ and much more. Should be an interesting read.

Wondering if anyone has read it, is reading it, or has an opinion regarding it. Let me know and we can chat more about it.

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Did you Know on December 12 ...

2010-12-11T21:12:00.000-08:00

Just a couple facts about December 12...my birthday.

Famous Events:
627 – Battle of Nineveh: A Byzantine army under Emperor Heraclius defeats Emperor Khosrau II's Persian forces, commanded by General Rhahzadh.
1781 – American Revolutionary War: Second Battle of Ushant – A Royal Navy squadron, commanded by Rear Admiral Richard Kempenfelt in HMS Victory, defeats a French fleet.
1901 – Guglielmo Marconi receives the first transatlantic radio signal at Signal Hill in St John's, Newfoundland.
1941 – World War II: UK declares war on Bulgaria. Hungary and Romania declare war on the United States. India declares war on Japan.
1941 – Adolf Hitler announces extermination of the Jews at a meeting in the Reich Chancellery
1991 – Russian Federation gains independence from the USSR.

Births:
1812 – John Sandfield Macdonald, Canadian premier of Ontario (d. 1872)
1864 – Paul Elmer More, American essayist (d. 1937)
1915 – Frank Sinatra, American singer and actor (d. 1998)
1923 – Bob Barker, American television game show host
1986 - James Kelly, blogger

Random:
Jamhuri Day, celebrate the independence of Kenya from Britain in 1963.
A good day to sing a song. Love you guys!

For more, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/December_12

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Greek is for Geeks!

2010-12-09T08:07:00.000-08:00

Since starting learning New Testament Greek, the last few weeks I JUST started enjoying the process of learning the language. I still believe someone needs not be a Greek master to be a great teacher of the bible, but I am start to learn its huge benefits!

Example, Matt 5:16 in the New Living Translation (NLT) says, "In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father." In the New International Version (NIV) it says, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

NIV is more accurate to the Greek for a number of reasons. One way is when translating, you break things up in clauses and NLT doesn't do that here. The primary is letting our Light shine in this verse. Why does it matter? Because all of who you are is the light, and your good deeds is an aspect of your light. Jesus is calling us to be light in ALL we say and do and how we live. People will see your good deeds as a result of how you live! NLT is missing what Jesus is getting at here.

To be able to read a sentence in the original language, pick up a couple english translations and actually point out their differences (and their misuses) is extremely helpful. I find it helpful for my own learning and studying but I am also more confident in teaching the material. Anyone who says learning the original language of the New Testament is useless or not important probably doesn't know Greek. Again, don't think its NEEDED to teach, but I'm starting to see its advantages.

Well, back to studying for my Greek final :)

For Jesus' fame,
JK

A Still Forgotten God

2010-12-06T18:46:00.000-08:00

On my walk to Laurier Library to do some Greek work, I listened to the last two chapters of Forgotten God by Francis Chan. I wrote two posts on a few thoughts I had the first time I heard/read this book - read here and here.

Again, a number of things just totally blew me away. Francis Chan seems to always kick my butt.

Francis tells a story about how one night he turned to his wife and out of nowhere it seems said this, "if Jesus came to this city, my church would be bigger than his!" He goes on to say that the message Jesus taught was so radical and hard to follow, the seats would be rather empty on any given Sunday. Chan points our that so many churches today are so concerned with filling seats on a Sunday rather than the Holy Spirit fill the hearts of men and women.

I agree with Francis Chan that most of our Christian Churches today have abandoned the Holy Spirit. I for one feel like I have. I don't want to lead and direct my life. I don't want to be an up tight business dude. I want the Spirit to lead my conversations. To lead my life. To lead me when to pray. To lead me when to shut up. I want to be completely lead by the Spirit, God living within me. I don't feel as though I am.

For Jesus' fame,
JK

How should "church" look? | Weekend Recap

2010-11-29T11:09:00.001-08:00

Karen and I had date night Saturday night. A great time to relax in the midst of a crazy month.

We went out for dinner to Oliver & Bonacini Restaurant in Waterloo. If you go, go to the lounge on the left, it was chill, we liked it. We then came home, put up our Christmas Tree, had some desert, relaxed and watched some West Wing. But one of the conversations we had at Olivers has stuck in my mind.

I'm ALWAYS thinking about how to "do" church better. I'm ALWAYS asking the question, "why do we do it that way?" "Is that the most effective way" and the big one, "is that biblical?" Saturday night I thought of an approach to "doing church" that could perhaps work...

There are basically two teams in the church planting world. Big church and home church. Big churches have all their people meet together on Sunday. Home churches like small gatherings and if it grows, break off and do another small one. There is massive ups and downs to both.

Here's the idea that came up Saturday. What if you had a church of 1000 people, but you had 10 different groups that met, each with their own pastor led by a very small team overseeing all 10 gatherings? There would be say 3 pastors (preaching pastor, senior pastor, Worship Pastor) that oversaw the other 10 pastors. The other 10 pastors focused on pastor/shepherding their 100 people, and left more admin, vision, direction and primary teaching to the 3 overseeing pastors. Gives are being utilized and people are getting attention from their pastor (a complaint people make about big church).

To me, it seems biblical. Paul and his boys acted as the main pastors, overseeing the other churches. He would do a lot visioning (ie his letters) and would do a lot of teaching (ie when he visited and through his letters). But there would still be pastors like Timothy that would lead the church in a particular community.

Like I said, just came to mind the other day, so I'm sure theirs churches already doing it and it probably has a lot of wholes, but hey, could work... thoughts?

For Jesus' fame,
James

Sacrifice: Who set it up, God or Humans?

2010-11-27T09:57:00.000-08:00

I am in the middle of research for a paper for my Theology of the Cross class (an amazing class!)

My major question for the paper is this: "Did God or Man set up the sacrificial system?" The answer to this question, I believe, has pretty significant implications on what theory one would lean towards regarding the Death of Jesus and the purpose it served.

In Genesis 3, Adam and Eve sinned by disobeying God and brought sin into the world. Through sin came shame and in Adam & Eve's nakedness they felt shame, hid from one another and made themselves clothes out of fig leafs. When God came strolling through the Garden of Eden He found Adam & Eve hiding in the trees. When God called Adam, Adam admitted he was afraid, blamed God and blamed Eve. When Eve was questioned, she blamed Satan. God then cursed Satan, Eve and Adam.

Directly following this, Eve is given her name by Adam and then we read this in Genesis 3:21, "The LORD God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them." Is this the first sign of sacrifice? Was this sacrifice? Isn't God rejecting humans effort to cover shame with his own approach? Does this relate with sacrifice?

The first "official" sacrifice is only verses later in Genesis 4:4 when Abel sacrifices an animal, which God look with favor upon over Cain's offering of "fruits of the soil." God makes it clear that Cain's offering is not right based on verses 6-7. Therefore the question is: if God is rejecting an offering of soil and accepting an offering of an animal, is he or man setting up the system?

If you have any thoughts, that would be GREAT! Additionally, any resources that speak of this topic would be very helpful too. Also, I just want to say. If your reading this and are really confused or angry, please ask me questions. The sacrificial system of the O.T. is difficult to understand but important in understanding the story of Christ. Thanks for all your help!

For Jesus' fame,
JK

How to Really Live as Salt & Light | Nov 21 2010 Lincoln Road

2010-11-23T19:27:00.000-08:00

Sermon from Sunday is up.

Listen here.

Podcast Description:

We are salt-seasoning, so let us bring a profound flavor to the earth. We are light, so let us shine bright to the world! And in it all, let us give glory to God!

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Message v. Delivery

2010-11-20T11:38:00.000-08:00

If you have ever been to church or seen church on TV, you have heard a sermon, a message. I started asking people about a year ago this question:

"Would you rather hear a sermon with a great message delivered mediocrely or a mediocre message delivered greatly?"

Over that time, I have heard many people from both camps. My camp, and don't hate me just yet if you don't agree, is the second one. I rather hear a mediocre message delivered greatly. Let me explain.

When I talk about message here, I mean the content. Say I heard a message on marriage. If the preacher had all this amazing content, content that would blow me away, cause me to think, challenge me and encourage me, but couldn't say it to me in a way that blew me away, challenged me and encouraged me, is that effective?

Now at this point I hear the argument that it is on me to listen, pay attention and get something out of the message. True true, to a certain extent. If I can't help but think of other things because I am not engaged, I'm sorry, but I rather think of something else.

Because here's the thing, a believe a great communicator will still help you retain and understand a mediocre message where as a poor communicator could lose you all together and you get nothing.

Obviously, a great message and a great delivery would be great, but hey, the likelihood of receiving both is very low!

What are your thoughts? Agree, disagree, why?

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Recapitulation

2010-11-16T15:54:00.000-08:00

Huh???!?

This was the title of my latest class on the Theology of the Cross, examining the deep meanings behind what Jesus Christ's death meant. My mind hasn't stopped spinning since our first class and today was no exception.

When I first heard the word recapitulation, I visioned some massive body builder dude getting his head gentled placed back on after being sliced off in a Gladiator like fashion...I know, gruesome but that's just what I saw.

The theory of recapitulation can be summarized with three words: Revisits, Renews, Reverses. These are all what Jesus did when he came to earth as a man, lead a life we can follow, died for our sins, and came back to live.

Recapitulation essentially means "summed up." Jesus summed up what went wrong by coming to live and die on earth for us. Our first dad, Adam, wrecked what was to be great and wonderful by disobeying God. Jesus came to earth as "the new Adam" (revisited), renewed what was broken between us and God and reversed death to life.

The theory focuses on the power of Jesus as God coming to live like us and among us humans as fully man. His birth, life, death and resurrection recapitulates what was lost and sets things anew. The theory also emphasis Jesus' life as an example for us to live by. Moreover, it highly emphasis' the incarnation, God becoming fully God and fully Man in Jesus (hypostatic union). It is for this reason the Eastern Orthodox Church (which hold stronger to this theory than others) values Christmas more than Easter.

That's a very very broad summary of the term. Hope it helped. And glad no heads were sliced in the process :)

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Salt & Light Again

2010-11-10T08:45:00.000-08:00

I need your help again.

I am preaching at Lincoln Road Chapel in a week in a half, November 21st. The passage I am speaking from is Matthew 5:13-16. It says this:

"13 “You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.
14 “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. 15 No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father." (NLT)

What sticks out to you? What grabs you? What do you think your job is as salt? What is your job as light? If you had to sum up these sentences in no more than 5 words, what would you say?

Any thoughts would be very helpful. My problem is I can dive so deep into the text, I loose the broad scope and there is so much power in that. Any help would be fantastic!

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Eucharist | Communion | Bread & Wine

2010-11-05T09:28:00.000-07:00

Last night, Karen and I had the awesome privilege to have dinner with an amazing woman. Kelley works for Campus for Christ here in Waterloo, ON and loves Jesus like crazy!

Her apartment felt so homey and comfortable. We had an amazing meal and a great time to relax, catch up and chat about our past and future.

But what was really amazing was this: we had communion together!

Communion, or eucharist, is when Christians take time to remember the death of Jesus Christ on the cross. Jesus' death was a horrible physical beating and crucifixion. It was also a spiritual beating in that the bible says Jesus took on the sins of the world paving the way for a chance for us to have a relationship with God. The depth of what Christ did for us on the cross, I believe, is so profound we have nearly started scratching the service and barley understand it.

To remember this amazing act, Kelley, Karen and I took 10-15 minutes to read scripture, pray, eat bread and drink wine. It was fantastic! But here's the controversy in it:

We weren't in a church building on a Sunday.

Karen admitted that it felt "a little weird." She wasn't use to it (Karen and I have done it at home a few times) But here's the thing: when I read scripture to do with communion, no where do I find that it must be on a sunday, with the entire church community, with an ordained minister, with little chunks of bread and shots of grape juice.

So why don't we have communion with other Christians Sunday afternoon at lunch? Why don't we remember the death of Christ by eating a loaf of bread and having a glass of wine on a Tuesday night at home? Yes, scripture is clear that if we're getting drunk off the wine - not right, and if we're just using the feast of communion to party and not remember - not cool. And yes, I'm not saying we stop having communion together as a body - that should be the most powerful time of the week or month! What I'm asking is that we think about it.

Have we legalized and restricted the time of communion?

Thoughts?

For Jesus' fame,
JK

My 100th Blog Post

2010-10-31T13:31:00.000-07:00

This is my 100th post on JK Journey.

100 posts. That's crazy. With an average of around 300 words per post, thats:

30,000 Words!

In the publishing world, that's considered a small novel (novella). That's just smaller than Francis Chan's "Forgotten God" (awesome book by the way - here are my two posts [Part 1 & Part 2] I wrote on the book this summer)

If I keep writing at this pass, I'll have written a regular novel's worth in one year. Hilarious.

Thanks to everyone that have stuck with me thus far. For those that follow regularly, its you that keep me disciplined to write. Thanks to everyone who check out my posts here and there. And to those that comment and actively read, thank you dearly. The comments bring so much value to my learning and the learning of others...thank you!

100 posts. Never thought I would do it. Its been a fun ride! Let's go for another 100!

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Busy ≠ Important

2010-10-29T09:22:00.000-07:00

I have a major beef with the language of "busy."

"How are you?" someone asks. "Oh, really busy!" It's as if we were wired to respond this way. Why? Why do we feel like we have to be busy? Why do we feel like we must tell people we're busy? And what effect is it having?

First, I need to tell you something you may not like to hear. Its something I know is true about you, even if you don't think so. Its this:

Your Not Important.

You and I may think we're important, but importance is relative. You may think you're important because you have a busy schedule. You may think you're important when you compare yourself to others. We think we're important, but hey, when I step back and put it into perspective, I'm not important.

I believe we feel like we have to be busy because we associate busy with importance and we want people to think we're important. Its a pride thing. And why do we feel like we must tell people we're busy? I believe we tell people because if we don't, then they may think we're lazy or unproductive or wasting time. Now, this may be true for many of us, but for some its not the case.

And finally, what effect is it having? This is the big kicker for me.

If I have an issue I need to share with someone and I know you to be a "busy" person, I'M NOT COMING TO YOU! The tragedy in this is that we have lost what is important. When we have hurts, we need to know there are people around us available to talk. We need to know there are people that will have time or make time for us. We need to know there are people that aren't so busy with "life" they don't have time for what matters, people!

SO I propose we start changing our lifestyles and start using a NEW language. I call it "The Language of Flexible" On top of that, maybe we try leaving one night a week totally free and tell people, "just come over if you want, I'll be at home ready to talk." You never know.

So, how are you today?

For Jesus' fame,
JK

What Makes a Good Wedding Ceremony Pastor?

2010-10-27T07:11:00.000-07:00

That's a picture of Gord Brock, who officiate our wedding, and I giving each other the fist pound as I came on stage during my wedding entrance with my boys! Love that picture.

As of October 26th, I have been legalized by the Province of Ontario, Canada to officiate wedding ceremony's.

I wouldn't say I'm naive to the process, as I have been married myself, been in a few of wedding parties and attended probably around 25 weddings, but when I thought about it, officiating a wedding ceremony is a whole new ball game!

I was hoping to get some tips from you.

What do you think makes a good officiate? What are the things to do or not do? What is their key job?

If you could give any insight, it would be very helpful!

You da bomb!

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Weekend in Review

2010-10-25T11:08:00.001-07:00

Here's what went down this weekend.

Friday, Karen had to work at night so I ended up staying home doing Greek homework...

Saturday, however, is when things kicked into high gear. From 9am-2pm, Gord Brock and I led a Preaching Class that had 7 dudes show up. I loved it. One, because preaching is one of my greatest passions. I love learning about it. I love developing a sermon. I love delivering one. I love sleeping the afternoon after delivering a sermon. Two, I am so honored that Gord even asked me to be a part of this class, let alone help teach it. And Three, to see young guys have a desire to learn to art of preaching and a desire to learn how to teach, inspires me like crazy.
After the class, I went home, cleaned and made dinner for Karen's Birthday! Karen turned 23 on Saturday. After our, yes it was romanic, pasta dinner, we went to the Robin Mark concert in town. It was fantastic! Then, to cap off the night, we went and learned how to Tango! A great birthday indeed!

Sunday, had our church service in the morning followed by a surprise birthday party for Karen! We had 9 friends over to just celebrate with Karen and enjoy the company. Then at night, we had out Young Adults "Marriage Panel" consisting of 2 married couples field questions on the topic of marriage. It had an amazing turn out and a lot of food! Karen and I had a long conversation about a bunch of things (including some hard stuff) when we got home. Let me tell yea, there are great joys in marriage but it takes a lot of forgiveness, patience, repentance and love! Karen and I are learning a lot about all these things of late.

Thanks for reading my rant. Thought it would be a good change from the regular theology/leadership stuff.

For Jesus' fame,
JK

3 Forms of Biblical Preaching

2010-10-22T12:18:00.000-07:00

When I talk about biblical preaching, I mean the proclamation of God (who he is, his character, his death for us, etc) and what we can learn from His Word!

All biblical preaching falls into one of three categories. Below are each category explained by example and the good and bad of each method.

Expository: Verse-by-verse

Usually a expository sermon will examine 5-12 verses, going deep into particular verses and words drawing out great detail in the passage.
Lincoln Road's (my church) did two expository series last year. One walking through the letter of James verse-by-verse and the other the book of Haggai.
The good: God breathed (2 Tim 3:16), Good for Non-Christians and Christians (track with easier), teaches members to study for themselves, and authority is in the text not the preacher
The bad: you can loose the insight by going so deep into the meaning of every word, and easy to worship the text not the God of the text, can become arrogant that expository is the only kind (a concern for all types)

Textual: A section of a book

Lincoln Road is about to start a HUGE AMAZING textual series working through the Sermon on the Mount (a sermon Jesus gave found in Matthew 5-7). If you're in Kitchener Waterloo Ontario, don't miss its start on November 7th!
The good: hit central truth while focusing on where people are at, gives flexibility.
The bad: can skip the tough parts of other parts of the book

Topical: Broad topic, scripture to support

At Lincoln, we are in the middle of a topical series on Marriage called Once Upon a Marriage. Topical is the most popular in mainline evangelicalism.
The good: address a controversy or issue in church, support a theme with scripture (one in particular so people can remember)
The bad: preacher brings in own ideas that aren’t biblical, ignore the tough stuff

Hope this was insightful and interesting. Was for me!

If you have any comments, please fire away! Learning and practicing the art of preaching is by far one of my greatest passions.

For Jesus' fame,

It’s all Greek to Me!

2010-10-19T10:15:00.000-07:00

If someone said to you, “It’s all Greek to Me,” what they mean is, “I have no flippin’ clue what any of that crazy stuff means!”

The New Testament was originally written in Greek. The Old Testament was originally written in Hebrew and just over one hundred years before Christ came to earth it was translated from Hebrew into Greek. The Greek translation of the O.T. is called the Septuagint (given the label LXX). In order to receive a Masters of Divinity at McMaster, one must become extremely familiar in either Hebrew or Greek. I chose Greek.

Growing up as a kid I would always ask the question, “where did that word come from? Why do we use that word to represent that meaning? Where did the English language come from?”

Well, the brief answer…Greek.

The English language stems from the Greek language. And as one learns Greek, they learn the root meaning and often times the deeper meaning to English words.

It is for this reasons I am still interested in Greek. I will admit, I am having a hard time motivating myself to study, but the more value I see in it, the more I am motivated. It can be discouraging trying to learn 50 words a week…wait, it is discouraging!

It’s sill all Greek to Me…but maybe in time, it won’t be. ☺

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

How Can I Preach More Effectively?

2010-10-16T18:50:00.000-07:00

Exactly one week from today, Saturday October 23rd, Gord Brock and I are leading a preaching class at Lincoln Road Chapel. The intent of the preaching class is to teach and discuss things like: what is preaching, why is preaching important, what are the jobs of a preacher, how do you prepare a sermon, what are different preaching methods, and so forth.

We provide a book by Andy Stanley called Communicating for a Change and each person is given one week to write a 5-minute sermon based on the format from Stanely’s book, present it to the group, and Gord and I take time to encourage and critique. Next week we have 8 dudes signed up. Hoping to get a few more…anyone?

With all that said, I wanted to share a brief note from the summers seminar.

Gord and I addressed the question, “how can I learn to preach more effectively.” Here are a few key things we said:

Practice. According to many preachers, it takes around 200-300 sermons to become just decent at the art of preaching (that’s 5-6 years of preaching 40 sermons a year…that’s ridiculously crazy!)

Read biographies of preachers before us. For example, Billy Graham’s “Just as I am” inspired me like crazy. It gave me practical advice but also inspired me to the nines!

Listen to sermons from a variety of preachers. Even if you don’t agree with all their theology, it will stretch you. Examples from guys you can download on iTunes: Andy Stanley, Mark Driscoll, Francis Chan, Perry Noble, Craig Groeschel, Matt Chandler, Gord Brock.

Practice with others. Gord B and I almost always listen and critique each other’s sermons the week before we preach on Sunday.

Watch comedians and politicians. Comedians, politicians and preachers are the only three fields that stand up in front of people and talk for a living. They will give you creative insight and technique you never thought of before.

Could you think of any others?

For Jesus fame,
JK

Who wants Jesus Dead?

2010-10-12T17:37:00.000-07:00

In my "Theology of the Cross" class today, we were learning about an atonement theory called "Solidarity and Vindication."

The premise of the theory is that instead of focusing on the violence of cross, lets look at the assurance and hope it brings. Solidarity and VIndication theory would argue that Jesus' death brings us assurance that no matter how horrible our situation is, Jesus' death brings us harmony with himself. Additionally, it points us to the hope we can have if we believe and accept Christ in the vindication of eternal life.

The theory rejects the idea that God turned away from Jesus on the cross. When Jesus says "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?", Vindication theorists would argue that Jesus is not stating that God has forsaken Him but rather is continuing the rabbinic method of pointing people to a chapter of scripture to read its context, in this case, Psalm 22. The impact of this belief is that Vindication theorists would say that God did not lay his wrath on Jesus (as substitutionary atonement would argue), but rather it was at the hands of humanity that Jesus was killed and though God did not want it to play out as it did, He used it to bring salvation to humanity.

The following summary answers the question, "Who wants Jesus Dead?" among atonement theorists:

Solidarity and Vindication
It is humanity that killed Jesus. God wanted him to survive and live but God used people’s horrible death upon Jesus to save us from sin.

Christus Victor
It is Satanwho killed Jesus. God wanted him to survive and live but God gave Satan the power to kill Jesus that God used to save us from sin.

Penal Substitutionary Atonement
It is God who killed Jesus. God had to put Jesus on the cross to satisfy the legal requirement so that we can be saved.

If any of this is confusing, please ask questions and lets learn together. If you have any comments, please fire away!

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Thanksgiving Reflections

2010-10-10T17:33:00.000-07:00

In Canada, it's Thanksgiving today. In light of this, in no particular order, I want to mention a few things I am very thankful for.

I am thankful for family. Over this weekend, Karen and I have had the fortune to be with all of our family. My family (the Kelly's) we're in full form, having a blast at my parents place. We had the opportunity to see my brother, his wife, and their new born Jack over Skype while they are living in Jerusalem. My sister and her boyfriend Nathan came down from London. Two of my three grandparents were there along with my parents. It was amazing. We also hung out with Karen's entire immediate family. Jon & Cheryl, Elina and Mom & Pop. Chillen and playing board games - always a solid time.

I am thankful for living in Canada. I have had to go to the doctor & orthodontist last week, and I am so grateful that I live in Canada and have access to these amazing recourses.

I am thankful for education. I love school! McMaster Divinity College is a solid solid school and I am so humbled to be given such an amazing education. Additionally, the education I'm getting at Lincoln Road Chapel is so great! I love my church too!

I am thankful for Jesus! I am thankful that I have a faith that sustains me. The beauty of this weekend here in South Ontario has blown me away to know that there truly is a God and He is present and involved all around me.

And finally, I know it might be chessy, but I am thankful for you. The people that read this blog and comment encourage me and challenge me. This blog has been a fantastic place for me to apply what I am learning, gain feedback and enhance my learning. Thank YOU for reading and staying involved in what I am learning!

For Jesus fame,
JK

30, 30, 30

2010-10-05T04:25:00.000-07:00

If only I could do what I say sometimes.

For the last year or so I've been talking about what I think would be an amazing addition to my day. Its something I've wanted to build into my routine so badly, I just can't seem to get it working.

Before I lay it out, here are the guidelines. Ever since I was a late teenager, I knew that the MORNINGS were THE time to prepare yourself for the day. I based this on scripture. Jesus "woke early the next morning." Is there throughout scripture. Second, I based this on past great leaders. Almost all the biographies of great leaders I have read have woken up early and started their day right. Finally, in my own life, when I wake up early, I am more productive, intuitive, disciplined and energized throughout my day. It is for this reason, I believe strongly in this:

30, 30, 30

30 minutes of Chillen with Jesus. As a Christian, its critical I spend time reading scripture, in prayer, and journaling. It helps me process and build my relationship with Christ. Billy Graham would spend hours in prayer and scripture reading in the morning. He would often say that the more busy and more intense his day would be, the longer he would spend in reading and prayer in the morning (doesn't make much sense at first given his intense day, but to him it was simple - more intense = need God more!). Spend 30 minutes every morning Chillen with Jesus.

30 minutes of Reading a Book. This is any book you are interested in. For me, its leadership and theology books. If you read around a minute in a half a page, depending on the book, you could easily read a book a week, thats 52 books a year!!! I know a crazy brilliant guy with two PhD's once tell me, "aim to read a book a week and you'll be blown away by the impact." Some could choose to do this at night, but I'm married and believe strongly in going to bed with my wife, not a book. Read 30 minutes every morning.

30 minutes of Exercise. I'm thinking primarily of running. Why? It gets you outside to reflect on the first two 30's. It wakes you up. It gets you outside. You could alternate between cardio and weights. I don't think I need to lay out the arguments why I think this one is so important. It just is. Spend 30 minutes every morning exercising.

And there you have it. 30, 30, 30.

The problem is, it requires a lot of discipline and going to bed VERY early. For me, I struggle with going to bed early and getting up early. Therefore, I suck at building this into my lifestyle. But I REALLY want to.

If only I could do what I say sometimes. One day...

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Do you believe in Miracles?

2010-09-29T07:44:00.000-07:00

I was reading from Acts 4 this morning. Peter and John are put in jail for healing a crippled man and teaching that Jesus was resurrected. After their sermon, a few thousand believed. When brought before the rulers and authorities, Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said,

"It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth whom you crucified but whom God raised from he dead that this mans stands healed...salvation is found in no one else for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:10-12)

Here's what rocks me. Only roughly 40 days earlier many of these same people that believed were the one's shouting "crucify him." People went from filled with rage to filled with hope. They went from anger to joy. How the mother does such a radical transformation occur in such a short period of time.

I believe miracles do still exist. I know that because I see them around me all the time. However, miracles like the one performed by Peter and John is one you don't hear about very much here in North America. Why? We'll I believe it has to do with our lack of faith. Jesus says we can do even greater things than he did. Do you feel that? Do you believe that?

What I really want to get as is, do you and I truly deeply believe a miraculous transformation could happen today? What causes it? What is our job? Thoughts?

For Jesus' fame,
JK

10 Reasons Jesus Died on the Cross

2010-09-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

This post is a continuation of my Response of Substitutionary Atonement.

Differences in atonement views examine substitution differently. For example, supporters of Christus Victor (Jesus died to primarily defeat sin, death and Satan) claim that it was Satan that demanded the law be satisfied, not God. Or supporters of the Healing view (Jesus died to primarily heal humans of sin) say God decided to offer Jesus as a sacrifice rather than fulfill a legal requirement. These differences come from people in these particular camps feeling their camp is more foundational than the others. I am from the camp that the list below will blow your mind!

The following is a list of 10 different atonement theories our class will be examining throughout the term. To those that say one theory is the only way to understand the atonement (usually P.S.A. advocates) are surly missing out on how profound what Christ’s death truly meant:

1. Propitiation (Penal Substitutionary Atonement) – Romans 5:9
2. Expiation (Cur Deus Homo) – Mark 10:45
3. Christus Victor – Colossians 2:14-15
4. Solidarity and Vindication – 1 Corinthians 15:57
5. Revealing God and Us – Romans 5:8
6. Example for us to follow – Philippians 2:5-8
7. The final scapegoat – Leviticus 16:9
8. Incarnation and Recapitulation – 1 Corinthians 15:22
9. Peace Child – John 3:16
10. Contemporary Communication – Acts 17:22-23

Looking forward to digging deeper into each one of these views! Again, thanks for the help with the discussion on this. Any other comments or questions are welcomed.

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

My Response to Substitutionary Atonement

2010-09-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

What a class!! As I sit down next to one of my friends, he leans over and says to me, “So James, the presenter for today is sick and Dr. Peterson expects you to present and respond to your own presentation.” Clearly he was joking...he wasn’t.

I was scheduled to give a 3-5 minute response to a 10-minute presentation. Instead, I gave a 10-minute presentation and a 3-5 minute response…to my own presentation. Thanks to those of you that joined the discussion to my previous post, I was ready to go! Here are a few things I pointed out about P.S.A. (I split this into two posts, the next coming in two days, as there is just way to much great deep profound amazingness to put out!)

What is P.S.A.?
• The penalty for sin is death. Sinners deserve eternal punishment in hell from God himself because of their sin and guilt (Rom 6:23)
• God’s holy anger is directed (Rom 1:18) against all those who have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom 3:23)
• And yet because of God’s great love, he sent Christ (John 3:16), who offered himself willingly and gladly (Phil 2:6-11), to bear the punishment of our sins and satisfy God’s justice (Rom 8:1-4).
• Christ died in our place, took to himself our sin (2 Cor 5:21) and guilt (Gal 3:10-14), and bore our penalty (1 Peter 2:24) so that we might receive forgiveness of sins (Matt 26:28).

Five Broad Questions: The debate of P.S.A. can be categorized into the following:
• Is it Biblical? Is it clearly portrayed in scripture?
• Is it cultural? Can our society really connect with language of wrath?
• Is it violent? Does P.S.A portray God as an unjust tyrant, a vindictive child abuser, and a hypocrite who pays no regard to Jesus foundational teaching on love?
• Is it just? What sort of justice is it that punishes an innocent person for what another person did?
• Is it skewing our understanding of God? Is it contraire to scripture to think of God as angry and Christ as loving?

Next post I will point out a few more debated issues and differences in Atonement theories relating to P.S.A. I will also give 10 different reasons Christ died on the Cross with scripture references!

What are your thoughts of the five questions above?

For Jesus’ Fame,
JK

Smell like Jesus

2010-09-20T13:34:00.000-07:00

I am apart of a rockin’ church community called Lincoln Road and I love my church. Right now, our community is learning what it means to live on mission; what it means to have a mental/heart/soul switch to know that whatever I am doing, I am living with a mindset to “smell like Jesus”

Friday of last week I had the privilege to attend a Pastors conference and eat lunch with Steve Brown. If you live in Kitchener/Waterloo, listen to 94.3FM at 8:30am any morning of the week. That’s Steve Brown. Something he said both on the Friday and on Sunday morning to our Lincoln community, hit me hard: He asked the question: do you smell like Jesus?

What he means by that is, do you live in such a way that people see Jesus in you? By how much you love people and care for people, can they smell Jesus? By the words you speak into people’s lives, do people smell Jesus? Through your humility and encouragement, do you smell like Jesus?

I seek to make Jesus famous. But that won’t happen if when I enter a room or conversation and people push me away cause I reek! I need to smell like Jesus.

I know, weird analogy, but hey, it’s helped me and I hope it can help you. Do you smell like Jesus?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Substitutionary Atonement

2010-09-16T10:48:00.000-07:00

I need your help!

I am currently taking a course called "The Theology of the Cross." I'm so jacked up to get this course off and running. (the course text is to the left here)

But while I'm totally pumped, I'm also nervous because come this Tuesday I need to be ready to critique and review a PhD's presentation on Penal Substitutionary Atonement. And thats where you come in.

With all my readings, I am only gaining a couple perspectives on what Penal Substitutionary Atonement means and its pros and cons. My question for you is:

How would you define Penal Substitutionary Atonement, what do you think are its pros and cons, and do you think it is foundational to our understanding of Christ's death on the cross?

If you don't have a clue as to what I'm talking about, stick around and read the comments. I will write a post after my class with more details to answer my own question.

Thanks so much!!!! Looking forward to your insights and comments. Thanks.

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Inception, Avatar & The Matrix

2010-09-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

Last night, I saw Inception with two solid dudes, Josh Stevenson and Nate Howlett. These guys love Jesus so much, it’s contagious!

Inception was flippin’ amazing. I spent the majority of my morning trying to figure out more pieces to the puzzle of the movie.

But when the three of us went out to talk about the movie after, I found a theme in blockbuster hits over the last decade or so that frightens hell right out of me.

What does Inception, Avatar & The Matrix have in common?

I believe what each of these major hits has in common is this: fantasy. An alternate reality. Something better than this world. Something where rules don’t apply. Something where you’re in control.

Its impact on our society is drastic. It’s revealing a major struggle and hole in our society. It’s showing the truest deepest desires of our world. It’s showing that we rather dream than live. It’s showing that our society longs for something more. Something deeper. Something better than this world. But most just don’t know what it is, or they do and push it away. I believe the longing of our society is found in …

Jesus Christ.

But the problem many have with Him is … He’s not fantasy. He’s not a 2 hours fix. Rules do apply. He’s in control. He rules and reigns. He is enough. People can accept the alternate reality but ignore the ultimate reality.

So what happens? They push the ultimate reality so far they confuse fantasy with reality and come to find … their totem never stops.

Thoughts?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

For Jesus' Fame

2010-09-12T19:36:00.000-07:00

Gord Brock, the lead pastor of Lincoln Road Chapel, the church in which I work, defined glory today as:

"The shining fame of God"

Why do I end all my blog posts and emails with "For Jesus' fame" some ask. For me, my whole life is about growing the fame of Jesus Christ. Its about giving God the glory. Its about Jesus getting popular.

Popularity is when someone is known by many. I focus all my energy on getting Jesus known by many. When I say known, that doesn't just mean "I've heard of him." That means, I "KNOW" Him. Intimately. Deeply. Personally.

It is for Jesus' fame that we must live. Not our own fame. Not our own popularity. But for Jesus' popularity. For Jesus' glory! For Jesus’ fame,

Thus I close with:

For Jesus' fame,
JK

When things get crazy!

2010-09-09T12:43:00.001-07:00

It has been a little bit of a crazy kick off to my new semester! Classes starting again, a ton going on with our student association that I have the privilege to lead, and getting ready for a big event at my church. Its been late nights and early mornings, none stop all the way.

But something hit me hard talking to a few new colleagues of mine:

I am so privileged to live where I live, study where I study and do what I love!!!

I have one of the coolest opportunity, I believe, in the entire world. I get to study scripture, diving into the big questions like "who is God" and thinking about how the bible applies to us today! Amazing! I get to interact with some of the brightest Christian thinkers in our province and some of the brightest in their fields in the entire world on a daily basis! I get to take what I learn and teach others from little kids to wiser older folks! It is all truly an honor.

So who am I to complain? Who am I to say, "this is tough"? I should enjoy everyone moment of this, be wise in how I fill up my schedule, and thank God for his grace in my life.

Thanks for letting me share :)

For Jesus' fame,
JK

People Pleasing Leadership: (B.G.L.L. Part 2)

2010-09-03T13:50:00.000-07:00

A leader doesn’t have to make everyone laugh.

They say that a youngest child is usually the class clown and a people pleaser. As the youngest child myself, I can relate with this. I have always struggled with the need to make people laugh and be the center of attention. Yes, laugher is important, but one thing I’ve learned from Billy Graham is that the laughter doesn’t need to be generated through my jokes to be a great leader.

In the book I’m reading, one quote from a good friend of Billy’s reads, “Billy generally did not have the gift of making others laugh, but here’s what is vital: he could join in other’s humor and could laugh at himself – even when under the spotlight or on camera when he had blown a line.” (p. 49)

It’s alright James. You don’t have to be the center of attention and make everyone laugh. But relax, enjoy yourself and let others shine.

I don’t know if you struggle with people pleasing and being the center of attention, but I think this issue will ultimately hurt a leader and I believe a leader looses credibility when he/she cracks jokes more than they talk about the think their passionate about (for me, thats talking about Jesus).

Thoughts?

For Jesus fame,
JK

Billy Graham Leadership Lessons Part 1

2010-08-31T15:16:00.000-07:00

I am reading a book called The Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham. At Karen and I’s camping weekend away, I got most of the book read and it has been amazingly insightful. Here is just one out of dozens of amazing insights this book gave me.

Billy knew how to build a team. Billy took chances. He constantly cast vision and asks people for huge things. Something Billy Hybles calls “Big Asks.” Billy built a team by challenging others to step up into a role he felt they could do even if they couldn’t see. He could see the potential and he went after it. He was persistent as well. When you find someone you want on your team, you aggressive seek after them.

What I learned from this is that having the right people, or using Jim Collin’s language-the right people on the bus, is absolutely critical to any team or leader succeeding. Billy G knew it and proved it. Billy H knew it and proved it. And now I know it. The only difference between the three of us is that they have proved themselves. All I’ve proved is that I like to read books about people that knew it and proved it. But I think that might be a good starting point.

For Jesus fame,
JK

Practical Mentorship Part 2

2010-08-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

My last post was focused on having a mentor. We need to have mentors to develop. Now, I want to flip the coin and focused on the importance of being a mentor.

Barnabas mentored Paul. Paul, in turn, mentored Timothy. Tim enters the scene in Acts 16. Paul hears good things about Tim, takes the chance and starts to build into him. Paul and Tim’s relationship leads to so many great things. Paul gets to focus on his gift of preaching with the help of Timothy. Paul builds confidence in Tim (2 Cor 4:17). Eventually, Paul sends Timothy to pastor a church (Acts 19:22). He writes to Tim to continue as his mentor from afar (1 & 2 Tim). They even write letters together (2 Cor, Phil, Col, 1 & 2 Thess). Tim becomes a great leader because he was built into!

My question for us is this: who is our Timothy? Who are we mentoring?

We need to find someone we can mentor and we need to pursue that person. If you wish someone asked you to mentor you, than you should do likewise to someone else. It’s a relationship. It goes both ways. Both have something to offer. You are not the almighty mentor, but you do have something to offer. And here's the thing. The greatest sign of a great leader is great leaders that follow. A great mentor raises the other person to new heights.

Who is your Timothy?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Practical Mentorship Part 1

2010-08-23T18:41:00.000-07:00

In Acts 13, Barnabas enters the scene. Barnabas was to Paul what Bill Hybels was to Andy Stanley, a great mentor!

I love reading biographies and I love listening to current leaders talk about leadership. And there is one message I hear over and over and over again: “I had great mentors.” Great leaders have great mentors. Great people have great mentors. Great mentors are fundamental to our growth as people.

Ironically (not really), Paul had a great mentor. Paul had Barnabas. The mentorship lessons we can learn from Barnabas, both for giving mentorship and receiving mentorship, are off the charts awesome. Lets explore:

1. In Jerusalem, the disciples fear Paul. Barnabas (son of encouragement is his name…mentors must be encouragers!) protects Paul and completely backs him up when maybe he shouldn’t have (Acts 9:26-30)
2. In Antioch, Barnabas encourages again and preaches Jesus, showing Paul by example (Acts 11:19-24)
3. In Tarsus, Barnabas seeks out Paul and brings him with him on mission. (Acts 11:25-26)
4. In Antioch, again, Barnabas teaches with Paul. Now they are working together more as teammates than as mentor and mentoree (Acts 11:26; 13; 14)

What can we take from this? As a mentor, you are called to be an encourager. To protect, even when it may hurt your image. Set an example. Be active in pursuing that person as a mentor. Work along side your mentoree!

I strongly believe that everyone should be at least mentoring one person and be mentor by one person. Who are you mentoring? Are you being mentored?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

How will you be remembered when you die?

2010-08-19T07:21:00.000-07:00

Karen and I were camping this past weekend. It was an amazing time to just chillax, read, play games, go swimming, and eat marshmallows. We had Jon and Cheryl Baelde up for Saturday (my brother and sister in law). Good times at the beach and playing a sweet awesome new favorite board game called Pandemic. If you haven’t played this, talk to me and we’ll play it. Its stellar awesome.

One question that Karen and I ask each other nearly every time we go camping, and I don’t know why it is asked when camping but its good, is this:

How do you want to be remembered when you die?

Sure it could suck to think about dieing but I think the question is powerful because it puts everything in perspective. It also helps you identify your dreams. Once you can identify a few things, you can work hard at achieving them or working towards them.

For me, I want to be remembered as a passionate bold leader and teacher that founded everything in life on Jesus. I want to be viewed as a leader that led in humility but led in a way that stretched and pushed people to be greater followers of Jesus. And finally, I want to be remembered when I die as one that loved Jesus first, his family second, his church third, his friends forth, and everything else comes after those.

So, how do you want to be remembered when you die?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

What is a Christian?

2010-08-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

I’m studying what the bible says about Paul, one of the greatest leaders in the bible. While studying his redemptive conversion from killing Christians to becoming a Christian, to passionately telling the story of Jesus so that others become Christians, I starting asking myself…what is a Christian?

When we read Acts 9 from the New Testament, we’re given a glimpse of what a Christian is and is not.

Before Paul started living for Jesus, he was living for himself. Life was all about his fame, name and glory. But when he accepted that Jesus died for him so that life could be centered around something greater than himself, he turned his life around. We call this redemption. Jesus redeemed Paul and Paul decided to live with purpose for Jesus and not himself.

Additionally, we can learn from Paul that a Christian is …
not afraid to share their love for Jesus because their actions will back up their words
not afraid of what others think of them because they believe so deeply in Jesus
not afraid of eating their pride and being led by someone greater than themselves

Many of Paul’s characteristics never changed when he became a Christian. He remained zealous. He remained driven. He remained passionate. He remained a great leader. But what changed was that he did all those things for Jesus’ fame, Jesus’ name and Jesus’ glory. No longer was it about himself.

What stands out to you in that chapter? How would you answer the question, “what is a Christian?”

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Align Creed & Deed

2010-08-09T07:11:00.000-07:00

What does it mean when I say, "Align Creed & Deed?" What do you think it means when we call people to align their creed with their deed?

For me, this is what it means:

We can’t tell people to do one thing, but aren’t willing to do it ourselves.
We can’t tell people to surrender their life to Jesus but not do it ourselves.
We can’t call people to serve in the church but only show up on Sundays.
We can’t tell people about Jesus but never talk to Him ourselves.
We can’t ask people to serve missionally but never talk to our neighbours.

What do you think it means? Can you think of any others like this?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Saul: Passionate, Strategic, & Relentless

2010-08-04T11:28:00.000-07:00

A small little side note to those tracking, I’ve decided to work through Acts in connection to Paul. I will reference his letters, character traits, debates around books, etc. But I will do it all as I walk through Acts. To be honest, it’s a lot easier for me to do it this way and as always, I like application, not just facts.

Jesus Christ. God. Born of a virgin. Lived a sinless life though tempted in everyway. Murdered for claiming divinity. Mediator. Became sin for you and I. Rose three days later. Defeated sin and death. God. Called his followers to spread his name and fame. The great commission. Disciples spread the news. Just like Jesus they were persecuted and murdered.

Enters Saul.

Saul enters the scene as Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit preaching Jesus, was being brutally and slowly executed. And Saul approved it all (Acts 6-8:1) But what rocks my world is the character of Saul in his introduction.

Saul was passionate. His passion and zeal no doubt drove him up in the Jewish rankings. (Acts 9:1)
Saul was strategic. He convinced the High Priest to let him travel to Damascus to put any followers of the WAY (Jesus) in prison. (Acts 9:2)
Saul was relentless. He traveled to various cities just to put Christians in prison. (Acts 9:2)

But you know what’s scary in all this: So many of us don’t even compete with Saul.

We lack passion: So many of us are more passionate about sports or weddings than we are about Jesus. We have a message that we believe changes lives. Where is our passion for Jesus and his fame? Where is our urgency? Where is our drive?
We lack strategy: Jesus was strategic. So we should be likewise. Don’t live whimsically. Be intentional about where you live. Be intentional about why sports team you play for. Do it to build relationships in order to spread Jesus’ fame.
We lack relentlessness: We live in a culture that rather be lazy than work hard, and we give in. We are called to be relentless in our mission for Jesus. We are called to be relentless teachers and livers of the Good News. To be relentless about the fame of Jesus. About the message of the cross. About the beautiful gift of salvation.

See, Jesus called Saul because he was ready. He had a passionate heart. A strategic mind. A relentless spirit.

Are you ready to be called by Jesus?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Previous Post in Series: Paul, Question before the Post

PAUL: Questions before the Posts

2010-07-31T11:30:00.000-07:00

Whad up! We’ll, based on a few people’s feedback, I am going to start a series on Paul.

How I would like to approach it is by examining Paul’s life chronologically in detail. As we work through his life (conversion, first journey, second journey, death), I will stop at moments to speak on his various roles (ie: Paul as Pastor, Paul as Missionary, etc).

Additionally, as we walk through I will point out Pauline Theology and how it can appear different from Jesus’ and others theology. Finally, I think it would be neat to take a post and summarize each of Paul’s letters.

Given all of this, I would be interested to hear your feedback. Think this is the best method to go about it? Is there something you would be interested I expand on? What am I missing? What should I focus on? Anything you’re thinking really, please comment and we can dive into this!

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Wild Goose Chase

2010-07-29T19:51:00.000-07:00

Karen and I are reading Wild Goose Chase by Mark Batterson. We are reading it out loud and discussing things as we go along. It has been fantastic!

“The Celtic Christians had a name for the Holy Spirit that has always intrigued me,” opens Mark on page one. “They called Him an Geadh-Glas, or ‘the Wild Goose.’” Mark adds this only verses later, “Much like the wild goose, the Spirit of God cannot be tracked or tamed.”

In the last 4 days, Karen and I have been talking about Jesus’ dreams for us. Talking about Jesus passions for us. We have such a long way to go and have only scratched the surface, but its exciting, scary, fantastic all at the same time.

“If you want to discover your God-ordained passions, then you need to identify what makes you sad, mad, or glad.” (p.22)

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Need help with an Interpretation

2010-07-27T09:07:00.001-07:00

I need your help again.

I am working through the following passage and would thoroughly enjoy your input. First, the context: John the Baptizer is in prison for telling Herod he was committing adultery by marrying his brother’s sister Herodias. In prison, John either questions or seeks reassurance that Jesus is in fact the Messiah, for he was probably confused as to why he was put in prison, so he send his disciples to ask of Jesus. Jesus response with this:

“Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me.” Matthew 11:4-6 (NIV)

What do you get out of this passage? What stands out? What do you think we can learn from this in 2010? Look deep. I think there is so much to learn in this passage and would appreciate some different perspectives.

Thanks!

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Is Preaching Important?

2010-07-24T14:05:00.000-07:00

I went onto google images and searched "preach" and this is the picture I got:

How does our generation view preaching? In the Church? Outside the church?

Some believe preaching is some angry dude forcefully telling you something you don’t care to hear. Some believe preaching is a noble gift used to teach, encourage and challenge. What do you think?

Here are a few reasons, based on scripture, I believe preaching is important:

• God preached the world into existence. “God said” is written 10 times in Genesis 1.
• John the Baptizer prepared the way for Jesus through Preaching (Matt 3:1)
• Jesus started his ministry with preaching (Matt 4:17)
• Jesus tells us to preach (Mark 16:15)
• When the church started, the first thing to happen was Peter preached a sermon (Acts 2:14-41)
• Paul started his ministry with preaching (Acts 9:19-20, 28)
• “Preach” is used as an action word nearly 30 times in Acts alone.
• Paul tells us the importance of preaching (1 Tim 4:11-16; 2 Tim 4:2-5)
• Preaching was important in the Old Testament. (Isaiah 61:1; Ezra 6:14)

What are your thoughts?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

I need your help.

2010-07-23T08:31:00.000-07:00

I am trying to decide on what series to do next. Thus far, I have worked through History of Christianity and 1 Kings. They have been great review and I have certainly enjoyed the reflection and comments.

What to do next is the question. I am debating between the following:

1. Paul the Apostle: I took a course that studied nearly everything there is to know about Paul. We examined the basics but also the debates surrounding him and his theology.
2. New Testament: Here, I would go through each book of the New Testament and give an overall summary and add in a few things that I learned while taking the course that I never knew before.
3. Old Testament: Again, I will give an overview of each book (more broad that I would if I went through the N.T.), pointing out how the O.T. fits together and some new things I learned along the way.
4. Worship Formation: This is the niddy griddy of pastoral work and ministry. This class was really practical looking at things like: “how to lead a funeral” “how to lead communion” “how to baptize someone” “what is worship?”

PLEASE respond if there is one that sticks out to you. If you don’t care, let me know and I will just pick on. I really want to do them all, so your opinion will help. Thanks.

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

I owe you an apology

2010-07-21T06:09:00.000-07:00

I have realized lately that I have a lot to work on as a person.

One of the big things right now is that I struggle with having a critical attitude. This stems from my pride and thinking I can do things better than others (another issue I need serious work on).

I used to be known as an encourager. But lately I have felt more called to challenge people (young men in particular) to step up and follow Jesus more closely and passionately. But here’s part of the problem…I don’t have much credibility to do this.

I am only 23 years old and have so many flaws that while I feel called to this task I don’t feel qualified. Plus, I feel like I’m loosing my encouragement in the process. If I can’t combine love and encouragement with challenging others than I am probably doing more harm than good.

Furthermore, in reference to my previous post entitled “why we live where we live,” I would like to say this. This post came out of my own personal struggle with how Karen and I are living. We moved to where we live now because of personal comfort. Lately, I have struggled with our motives for moving here. I want to apologize if I have sounded brass and condemning for that was not the intent. The intent was get to the heart behind why we desire what we desire. The intent was to stretch our minds (including mine) on the issue of why we live where we live.

Any practical help/tips would be appreciated.

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Good Tough Council: We need it!

2010-07-19T08:25:00.000-07:00

This is my last post on 1 Kings. It has been a great journey with this being my 16th post on the subject. For those of you tracking with me, thank you. Hope you’ve enjoyed it. Stay tuned for my next course series…still deciding which to do.

In 1 Kings 22, Jehoshaphat the King of Judah (son of the great king Asa), tells Ahab the King of Israel to first ask the Lord whether the two nations should go to war against Syria. Ahab asked 400 prophets except one, Micaiah, because Micaiah doesn’t always tell Ahab what he wants to hear like the other so called prophets. Micaiah seeks out God on what is to happen and Micaiah gives the honest grave news that if Ahab goes into battle, he will loose and be killed.

How does Ahab respond? He puts Micaiah in jail for not receiving a favorable answer, goes into battle, looses and gets killed. Ahab didn’t want the council of Micaiah because it wasn’t favorable. Two lessons to take from this:

First, we don’t always get what we want. And we shouldn’t. For me, I want a lot of stupid stuff. Its stuff that God knows will just distract me from what’s important and waste my time. Perhaps there is something you want right now but know it will only distract you from what’s important like Jesus and people. It might be good to stop, not buy that thing, and ask Jesus if what you want is legit or prideful.

Secondly, just like Micaiah was a tough voice in Ahab’s life, you and I need tough voices in our life. I don’t know about you, but I love the Micaiah’s in my life. The people that might not give me the fluffy answer I really want. The one’s that seek after God for direction and then lay it out for you regardless of what you want to hear. In the moment, I am always angry with these people. Later, however, they are the people I turn to for advice and help. These are the people I look up too. Find a few Micaiah’s that can stretch you and push you. You need to seek after them. Don’t wait.

Thanks again for tracking with the King’s series. If any of you have any feedback on how I approached the series or any ideas and tips for future series, would like to hear from you. Thanks.

For Jesus fame,
JK

Why do you live where you live?

2010-07-17T10:21:00.000-07:00

Karen and I had an awesome day-date yesterday. We first went up to Elora Gorge. We read, had a picnic, played Frisbee, went to the Elora Quarry, went for a few walks, had dinner on a patio, and drove home. When we got home we walked to the Waterloo Jazz Festival. Loved it and love Karen!

But my favorite moments of the day were the conversations Karen and I had. We have been extremely stretched lately with a number of concepts and ideas. Over the last week, however, the way we live and why we live that way has been nailing us.

As we were talking at dinner, I came up with four reasons I believe people live where they live. I have not fully fleshed these ideas out so my apologies if there are gaps. And yes, it just so happens they all start with “P”.

1. Pride: They live where they live because they feel like they have something to prove. They buy the expensive house, with all the nice furniture because they want people to know they have it. They choose a house based on how people would view them.

2. Price: people buy the best house that they can afford. They look at their budget and estimate how much they can put towards a house (usually based on #2 criteria) and go looking for that instead of budgeting how much they can give and according to that find out what they have left then look for a house maybe around that price. They say its an investment but rely too much on how much money they can make instead of how they can rely on God.

3. Personal Comfort: They want a house because that’s what they’ve always wanted. They want the ease of life. Safe. Comfortable. They seek the enjoyment of life. It’s more about them then a mission or ministry.

4. People First: They choose a living place because of the need of a community. They don’t choose where to live based on what is nice or how others view them, but seek out where the most need is and just live there. Community is more important than size of where they live. Community is more important than personal convenience.

Obviously, you can tell that I am pushing for the forth but it sure isn’t easy. I didn’t think this way a year ago, but now I just can’t get my head around not living life #4.

What do you think? Where are you out of the four?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

How do I hear God’s will?

2010-07-15T15:13:00.001-07:00

Hearing God’s will is hard work.

I had a good conversation with my friend Josh the other day and in our discussion I realized that so many of us are just waiting for that lightening bolt moment where God gives us a direction for life and the next move. Do I think those moments are possible? Yes, I’ve experienced them. However, I don’t think we deserve them.

Who are we to be given a clear direction? I believe finding out God’s will should be hard work. I hear it explained this way before: God’s will is like a door. Once you open it, you have discovered God’s will and direction for your life. Unfortunately, the door is bolted shut. It is nailed up with 10 2x4’s, has a giant river in front of it filled with killer sharks and flaming arrows are flying from above directly at you. Our job is to open the door. Our job is to get past all the obstacles that so many of us give up on. It isn’t easy, but I think that’s what God deserves.

Something that bothers me is when people wait for God to close doors and the one left open becomes God will. Sorry, but that is a load of crap. I think that’s just our way of justifying failure. We must work hard to open up those doors. How do we do that?

1. Pray Fervently: The fervently part is key because 10 minutes doesn’t count. Maybe take a day away with nothing but a notepad and pen and just listen.
2. Study Scripture: Don’t just read it. Study hard. The common question is: what do I read? Well, I can’t just give you that answer but for some reason I think I just need to say this: someone reading this needs to start reading Acts.
3. Seek blunt council: The blunt part is key. Don’t seek council from people that will just tell you what you want to hear but get council from people that will do 1 and 2 for you or with you and then not be afraid to give you an honest response.

Seek God first, and good friends and family second. Its hard work to hear God’s will and direction for your life but I think God wants to know that we are serious about it. I think He wants to know that we want to truly seek after His perfect will, not our own.

Thoughts?

For Jesus fame,
JK

1 Kings: Sulky Sullen and Stupid

2010-07-12T13:35:00.001-07:00

Chapter 21 of 1 Kings contains one of the most interesting stories of the whole crop. It tells the tale of King Ahab and his desire for a dude’s crops (vineyard) named Naboth.

The King wanted the land because it was near by and asked Naboth if we could have them in exchange for something better. Naboth refused based on the law saying he had the right to keep the land. The King fumbles home sulking to his wife Jezebel. Jezebel babies him and instead of telling him to take it like a man, she tells him to go into the kitchen, eat food, relax, and let her take care of it. To take care of it, she has Naboth murdered.

Jezebel then tells her husband the land has freed up (leaving out the fact that she had Naboth murdered) and to go and take ownership of the land. Just as he’s taking possession of the land, Elijah (a prophet of God) tells the horrible news of the Kings family’s future because of what they had done. The King then realized what had happened, repented and humbled himself before God.

There is a plethora of application in this vivid story, from marriage don’ts, to the importance of humility, to the slavery of greed, and much more. Yet the one lesson from this story that nails me comes in form of a question:

Am I going to man up when I don’t get my way or will I continue to sulk, be sullen and angry?

Just as King Ahab gets irritated (or vexed) and sulky (or sullen) when he didn’t get his way, I find myself doing the same all the time. But here’s the thing. If I got my way all the time, my life and many others around me would be in shambles. I am so blessed to have my wife, solid mentors and friends that are willing to challenge me because if I didn’t, I would get my way a lot more and that would just mean a lot more things would suck.

Do you have people around you that will challenge what you say? Not agree with you sometimes? Stretch you? And will you, like I need to, stop sulking when we don’t get our way, suck it up, and learn.

“Whoever loves discipline, loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.” Prov 12:1

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Four Pillars of Jesus' Death

2010-07-09T10:14:00.000-07:00

With my course called “The Theology of the Cross” taught by Jim Peterson approaching in the fall, here is a post I have been waiting to put up:

I once attempted to teach a group of young adults in Halifax four key theological terms dealing with the death of Jesus. I used this silly drawing to both help people remember and to let them laugh at my horrific drawings…yes, please laugh. I know I suck.

The first box (top left) illustrates propitiation. Propitiation is the technical term explaining that Jesus took on the wrath of God in our place in order that we can be saved. The fire-balls are the wrath and obviously the cross represents Jesus’ death on it.

The second box (top right) illustrates redemption. Redemption is the term for Jesus’ freeing us by purchasing our freedom from slavery through his death. Because our sin is against God, only God can forgive it. Therefore, because Jesus is God his blood was required in order to redeem us. The money sign helps us remember the purchasing and the dude leaving what are suppose to be prison bars represents you and I being freed from our bondage.

The third box (bottom left) illustrates justification. You and I are guilty of our sinful nature and God deserves justice. We were declared right before God by grace alone through faith alone because of the person, work and death of Jesus Christ alone. The green bushy thing with yellow spewing from it is supposed to be God (the burning bush) and the check mark is the “made right”. Therefore, justification is that we are “declared right before God.”

The forth box (bottom right) illustrates sanctification. Sanctification is the process of being made holy before God. Jesus’ death allowed you and I the opportunity to be sanctified to God through Jesus. Again, the burning bush is God and the stick man represents you and I. The arrow of sanctification is only possible because of Jesus’ death on the cross.

To summarize it all:
The act of Jesus Christ dieing on the cross was taking on the wrath of God in our place (propitiation), which led to the purchase of our freedom (redemption), being made right and just before God (justification) and being made ‘at one’ with God (reconciliation).

It would be great to spend at least one post on each of these. If you’re interested in a deeper explanation, please let me know and I can go ahead and do that. If you have questions, let me know.

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Top Ten Great Church Websites

2010-07-07T08:09:00.000-07:00

A website reflects a person. Reflects a company. Reflects a church.

And I don’t think a lot of church leaders have figured that out yet. A person will go on your website before they come to your church. Does your website reflect your church?

As I have been doing a lot of research on this stuff, I thought I would post my top ten favorite great church websites that I think are cutting edge and connect well.

http://www.xpointe.com/ Orlando, Florida | Probably my fav template of them all. It grabs you. Shows you what is important. Organized. Love it.

http://www.marshillchurch.org/ Seattle, Washington | Has always been one of my favs. They manage to get a tone of content on with easy and clearness. Most pictures you click on are videos.

http://www.peopleslambton.com/ Wyoming, Ontario | This church was wise to go through http://www.churchplantmedia.com/ to get their design made.

http://www.lemontcalvarychurch.org/ Lemont, Illinois | Not a fan of the color but the style and template is stellar. Simplicity is key here.

http://www.yourchurch.com/ Indianapolis, Indiana | They are doing so many things great beyond style. Their connection with non-church folk and their members is off the charts.

http://www.keenecrossway.org/ Keene, New Hampshire | They know how to let their people know about what's happening at their church. Notice calender on main page. Most of what you need it just on their home page.

http://www.creeksidechurch.ca/ Waterloo, Ontario | Good local church that is doing it right. Well done Creekside!

http://www.watermark.org/ Dallas, Texas | Not only a unique design, but smooth and effective as well. This site stays tight wherever you click.

http://www.lifechurch.tv/ Online Church based out of Oklahoma | Lifechurch has services online...a new concept for most but seems to be working for them. There site reflects there effort to connect with people online.

http://www.newspring.cc/ Anderson, South Carolina | My favorite feature is that they stream there entire service on their home page. Just click on the main image and you can watch their service from beginning to end.

Feedback would be great. Thanks.

For Jesus' fame,
JK

Theology & Terminology: Why did Jesus die?

2010-07-05T10:41:00.000-07:00

I am reading the book DOCTRINE by Mark Driscoll & Gerry Breshears. I was excited to read the chapter called Cross: God Dies as I am eagerly awaiting a fall course to begin called The Theology of the Cross taught by Jim Peterson.

I figured it would be helpful for me and for those of you interested to gain a summary of theological terms related to the death of Jesus Christ given in DOCTRINE.

Propitiation: Jesus took on the wrath of God for us so that we can be saved. “Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him [Jesus] from the wrath of God.” Rom 5:9 (Others include: 1 Thess 1:9-10; Rom 3:23-25; Heb 2:17; 1 John 2:2; 1 John 4:10)

Justification: God deserves justice. We are declared just or right before God because of Jesus’ death. “Through Him [Jesus], everyone who believes is justified” Acts 13:38. (Others include: Titus 3:7; Rom 4:3; 5:1; 5:16-17)

Ransom: We accrue debt to God for all that we commit against him. Jesus is the only one possible to pay it because our perfect God required a perfect payment. “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” Mark 10:45 (Others include: Titus 2:13-14; Gal 3:13; 1 Tim 2:5-6)

Redemption: We are slaves to sin like our forefathers in Egypt. Jesus rescued us from our bondage through his death on the cross. “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Rom 3:23-24 (Others include: 1 Cor 1:30; Gal 3:13; Eph 1:7)

Unlimited Limited Atonement: Jesus died for everyone but his death was efficient for his elect: those that repent and trust in him. Armenians believe in unlimited atonement and Calvinists believe in limited atonement. (Armenians use: 1 John 2:2; 2 Cor 5:14-15; John 1:29; Heb 2:9; 1 Tim 2:4. Calvinists use: Rom 8:29-30; 1 Cor 1:23-25; 1 Tim 1:9)

Christus Victor: Jesus came to free us, the captives. Jesus was victorious over Satan when he died on the cross. Just like the White Witch in Narnia thought she was murdering Aslyan for good, Satan thought he killed God through Jesus but was gravely mistaken. “He [God] disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in Him [Jesus].” Col 2:13-15 (Others include: Col 1:13; Luke 4:18; Col 1:10-14)

Expiation: Our sin (both committed by us and against us) is taken away so that we are made clean though Jesus. Jesus is our scapegoat (in O.T., the priest would symbolically put the sins of the people on a goat and let is run free). We are cleansed and purified through Christ’s death. “For on this day shall atonement be made for you to cleanse you.” Lev 16:30 (Others include: Jer 33:8; Zech 13:1; 1 John 1:7-9)

I know this is a lot to swallow, but if you get the chance, I highly recommend diving into these scriptures. The experience will be rich, I assure you. It is important we search out the deepest meanings as to why our King became a servant and died for us. It blows my mind away!

For Jesus’ Fame,
JK

Are you like me: Stupid?

2010-07-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

Karen, my wife, and I are reading through Proverbs together right now. When we got to this verse, I stopped, and have since read it each time we read just to remind myself.

“Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.” (Prov. 12:1 ESV)

I’m stupid. I’m stupid because I’m not always the biggest fan of reproof, or as the NIV translates it, correction.

Reproof is about not only listening to correction from wiser individuals, but to have a learning heart so that you are more approachable to be corrected.

Discipline isn’t easy either. I don’t know very many people (if any) that love discipline. It’s hard work. It takes sacrifice. It takes commitment. It takes time. But I see so much truth in this proverb because I’ve seen times in my life when I love disciple, I also love knowledge and it comes easier.

Do you love disciple? Are you open to reproof?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Maniac, Corpse, Lovenest, Nude

2010-06-30T11:33:00.000-07:00

I posted on sexrev.org yesterday. Please check it out. Here's how the post starts:

"Have you ever seen the movie Newsies? It’s based on the true story in the early 20th century when the Newsies (boys that sold newspapers on the streets) of New York went on strike when the price of newspapers jumped.

When the lead character Jack Kelly was asked the question: “What makes the headlines good?” He answered in his thick New York accent, “Aw, you know, ... "

Click Here to Read the Rest.

How Should a Pastor be Paid?

2010-06-28T08:28:00.000-07:00

In my Ethics & Character class last year, we discussed six methods for setting a pastoral salary. Here they are:

Six Methods for Setting a Pastoral Salary

1. Full-Time Tentmaker: No Salary. A pastors should never receive a full-time salary. It is better to work a job than to have others pay for your ministry work
2. Bare Subsistence: Just enough money to live. Keeps pastor humbled. A pastor shouldn’t have any luxuries anyway.
3. Average Salary of Congregation: Keeps down envy. Encourages pastor to understand the people and how they are living. It can, however, discourage to work in poor areas
4. Based on Education, Experience, and Responsibility: Pastoral Care equal to Councilors. Often a lead pastor compared to Elementary Principle salary.
5. Based on Responsibility + Bonuses: Pay for education. Pay for extra needs of the pastor and family. May be viewed as to much from other members.
6. Commission on Revenues: 10% of weekly offering or one offering a month. Easy to set budget. May lead to pastor working harder for wrong reasons.

What do you think is the right choice? Why?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Hope when Life Sucks

2010-06-25T11:39:00.000-07:00

In 1 Kings 18, Elijah defeats the Baal prophets. He has 450 men slaughtered. He brings water in a time of drought. He is on top of the world. Nothing could frighten this hero. Nothing could bring him down.

If only that weren’t so. At the start of chapter 19, we find that Jezebel threatens Elijah when she finds out what he has done. And Elijah runs. He runs for his life because he was flippin’ ready to pee his pants. He then says, “I have had enough, Lord…Take my life”

Elijah went from the highest point of his life to his lowest in the matter of days. He goes from watching God vividly demonstrate His great power to having his life threatened.

But it’s in Elijah’s moment of great weakness, sadness, and fear that God shines brighter than ever. He sends an angel. The angel wakes Elijah up, gives him food and water (which was crazy because he was in a desert with no food or water around). God showed Himself to Elijah even greater than ever before. More vividly. More powerfully. More real. It was in Elijah’s lowest that God showed His greatness.

I don’t know where you’re coming from reading this post. But if you’re at a low point, like Elijah, perhaps dreading the future, perhaps thinking of ending your life, perhaps feeling in despair from life’s situation right now, please know this.

God loves you. He loves you because he has sent His angels to comfort you. He loves you because he sent Jesus to die for you. The water he provides is everlasting life. The food he gives is deep profound truth found in scripture. God seeks deep relationship with you and is pursuing you. Please, let him feed you. Let him give you water. Let him wake you up and move forward together. For when life sucks, God is hope. God is love. Let’s move forward together with Jesus central in it all!

With Love,
JK

What a Christian life SHOULD Be Like

2010-06-23T08:05:00.000-07:00

Just yesterday, I was reading The Tangible Kingdom when I came across my favourite classified ad of all time:

Earnest Shackleton was the leader of the first Antarctic Expedition in 1914. Although the expedition was not successful in reaching the South Pole, it was success in setting a powerful leadership example (hence the book “Leading at the Edge” I’m reading, which is based on this expedition – I love when two books I’m reading collide).

Men responded in throngs to this ad. Why? Because the mission was clear. Hugh Halter from Tangible Kingdom says, “The cost and potential loss both drew the right men and made sure the wrong men didn’t sign up.”

This ad reflects so much of what the Christian life should be like:

It should be a hazardous journey. Jesus never promised comfortability.
It should be about Jesus’ fame. Not one’s pocket book.
It should be bitter cold. Frost bit hurts and Christians will experience it.
It should be dark. Christians are called to the darkest areas of society.
It should be unsafe. Our founding fathers were all murdered for believing in Jesus.
It should be about the honor of Christ living in us. A Christian should not live for the honor and recognition of this lifetime.

Yet my life does not reflect this. I am safe. I worry about money. I’m warm. I live in a bright neighbourhood. I feel safe. And I seek honor and recognition in this life.

This makes me mad.

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

What Talents Must a Pastor Possess?

2010-06-21T13:44:00.000-07:00

Elijah v. Baal Prophets is one of the most memorable stories from the O.T. (Elijah 18)

It’s memorable (among many other reasons) because just as Elijah prepares the way for God, John the Baptizer prepares the way for his cousin Jesus about 600 years later.

I love how Elijah and John knew their roles. They knew there was no middle ground. You either accept God or reject him. They knew the power of God, and trusted Him. They knew that the message following them was greater than theirs. They knew that their job was to challenge the people to examine their hearts so that when the good news arrived, the people would be ready to listen. These dudes knew their roles.

I have been asking myself a lot lately what my role is. God has called me to serve diligently and humbly in HIS local church. To be a pastor. How that looks, however, I do not know.

Just yesterday I asked Karen’s family this question: what two skills/roles/talents do you believe are vital a church pastor encompass?

What do you think?

Elijah and John knew their roles in life. They knew their purpose. Do you? Do I?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Forgotten God: I have Forgotten

2010-06-17T10:47:00.000-07:00

You will notice two posts today. The one you are reading now are my thoughts on a book. The second is a compilation of quotes from that book.

I recently purchased and am currently reading a book called The Forgotten God by Francis Chan. Francis Chan is a pastor, author, and very highly respected speaker and man seeking after God. Forgotten God is his latest book, focused on who the Holy Spirit is, how He moves, and how He plays out in our lives.

And his ideas have been ruining me.

Chan explains that we as the North American church have forgotten the Holy Spirit, the presence of God within those that humbly accept Christ as King over their lives. We have forgotten His power and His importance in making movements happen.

This is me. I stress the importance of Jesus (which I will never stop doing hopefully) but I rarely emphasis the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is God in us. He stirs. He moves. He comforts. He challenges. And I neglect Him.

Image if we let the Spirit really move in our life. Image if we asked for His guidance more. His wisdom. His insight. Image if the Holy Spirit took absolute control of our churches. What would change? … Everything!

How prominent of a role do you give the H.S. in your life? Let’s work on changing that together.

Please read some quotes from Francis Chan below.

For Jesus’ (& the Holy Spirits) fame,
JK

Forgotten God: I have Forgotten

2010-06-17T10:43:00.000-07:00

Here are a few quotes from the first few chapters of Forgotten God by Francis Chan. Pick it up. Borrow it. Rent it. Read it.

“You might think that calling the Holy Spirit the “Forgotten God” is a bit extreme…I don’t think so” (15)

“There is a big gap between what we read in Scripture about the Holy Spirit and how most believers and churches operate today.” (16)

“If we read and believe (the accounts in Acts 2), we would expect a great deal of the Holy Spirit.” (30)

“Let’s be honest: If you combine a charismatic speaker, a talented worship band, and some hip, creative events, people will attend your church. Yet this does not mean that the Holy Spirit of God is actively working and moving in the lives of the people who are coming.” (31)

“If it’s true that the Spirit of God dwells in us and that our bodies are the Holy Spirit’s temple, then shouldn’t there be a huge difference between the person who has the Spirit of God living inside of him or her and the person who does not?” (32)

“It really is an astonishing truth that the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you.” (37)

“I think the fear of God failing us leads us to ‘cover for God.’ This means we ask for less, expect less, and are satisfied with less because we are afraid to ask for or expect more.” (47)

“Are you afraid of getting “too much” of the Holy Spirit and the possible ramifications of that?” (52)

“…we need to base our understanding of and experience with the Holy Spirit on biblical truth and not on fear” (53)

“Let’s focus on believing the promises given to us by God, on submitting to Him the fears that we have, and on surrendering ourselves fully to the work and will of God, the Holy Spirit.” (57)

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Proving Myself is Bull

2010-06-14T10:36:00.000-07:00

Now enters Elijah.

Elijah is a prophet that enters the scene in chapter 17 of 1 Kings. As a prophet, the people looked to him to hear what God was teaching them. He could heal people. He could often tell the future. His resume would have been killer.

But what is different and interesting about Elijah is his introduction.

When he enters the scene, he is given a very weak introduction (all it says is where he is from). We don’t learn very much about him, and therefore we do not trust him (nor do the people) as a prophet. The first story told about him seems to me to be a “proof,” as though he needed to prove himself so the people would trust him.

I struggle with this. I struggle with feeling as though I must prove myself just to earn peoples trust. What’s with that?

I don’t need to prove to anyone anything. What I need to do is focus on Jesus and let him walk in front of me. Then if I can truly let Jesus lead and direct and show HIS face THROUGH me, than I will gain people’s trust. It has to be about Jesus and Him leading before us.

If you’re like me, you often feel like you need to earn people’s trust. Stop. It will be earned when we earn Jesus’ trust by serving Him with all we are!

Just like Elijah, it seems, had to earn the peoples trust (we read in 17:24 that a women trust Elijah after he heals her son) we must earn peoples trust through letting Jesus LEAD. Letting Jesus do the miracles. Letting Jesus be the HERO!

Agreed?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Books I’m Reading: Your Input?

2010-06-12T09:18:00.000-07:00

I realized last night that I am reading too many books. So I thought I would ask you to tell me what books you think I should continue with, and which I should drop for now. If you could pick two books (besides the bible cause I won’t stop reading that), which would you say I should continue reading?

The book of Malachi from the Bible (Bible Study). What’s been blowing me away in Malachi is the importance of fearing God. Not in a way that you are scared to speak with Him, but a fear of humility and reverence before Him as KING of the Universe.

The Tangible Kingdom by Hugh Halter and Matt Smay (Church). These guys look at church very differently than the average modern N.A. church. I am certainly loving the emphasis on going and being with people. Solid so far.

Slaves, Women & Homosexuals by Bill Webb (Gender Issues). I believe that the gender issue and homosexuality are the two greatest debated issues in the church in Western culture. This book has been recommended several times to be and thus far, has taught me a tone.

Forgotten God by Francis Chan (Spiritual Development). I just bought this book. I have always wanted to read a Francis Chan book. He inspires me and this book in particular is all about the Holy Spirit, a relationship often neglected with Christians (I am guilty of this).

Orthodoxy by G. K. Chesterton (Theology/Spiritual Development). Another new book. It is a hard slow read, but he has brought things up I have never thought of, ever! Not one I would recommend to everyone though.

Churchill: A Biography by Roy Jenkins (Biography). Winston Churchill is best known for his daring and bold leadership as UK’s PM during the WWII. I find it important to learn from great leaders of our time.

Recovering Biblical Manhood & Womanhood by John Piper & Wayne Grudem (Gender Issues). These guys come at gender issues from a complementarian viewpoint. I just started this one and I am eager to get into it.

Vintage Church by Mark Driscoll and Gerry Breshears (Church). How does God want His church to look and act like? Mark gives his perspective as the founder and teaching pastor of Mars Hill Church in Seattle, USA. I only have a few chapters left of this one. Solid.

Leading at the Edge by Dennis Perkins (Leadership). Perkins examines the amazing sailing adventure of Bill Shakelton to the Antarctic. The leadership lessons I’m learning here are huge.

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Leaders: Give your people the Best!

2010-06-10T11:45:00.000-07:00

In reading 1 Kings, I came across two verses that have floored me in how I think a leader should take care of its followers.

In 1 Kings 14:25-28, Shishak, the King of Egypt, attacked Jerusalem. After sacking the city, they carried off with all the treasures of the temple and royal palace. We are told one thing in particular that was stolen: the gold shields the previous King of Israel, Solomon, had made. The next verse tells us that the present King, Solomon’s son Rehoboam, made bronze shields to replace the gold ones and gave theme to the royal guards. Finally, we find out that each time the king left the palace the guards would return the shields to the guardroom.

How the mother is this applicable to how I think a leader should take care of its followers? We’ll, a couple of reasons.

First, a leader should treat followers and volunteers like gold, not bronze. When you treat them like bronze, they will show no respect. Solomon gave his royal guards shields made of gold, representing honor and value. Rehoboam, instead of replacing the gold shields with the same, if not better, he replaced them with bronze shields. Bronze shields were far more ineffective and did not represent honor or value. Rehoboam was indirectly telling his guards (one of the most prestigious military honors at the time) that they were not very important and that he respects all the hard work to be in the role they were. A leader must treat their followers like gold because when you do so, you will receive passionate golden followers in return.

Second, a leader must ask the question, “how do those that follow me respect what I empower them to lead?” In our story, the last line is key. We are told the royal guards put the shields away each time the King leaves. A way we can interpret this is that the guards don’t respect their king, their leader. They dishonor him by returning the pitiful bronze shields to the guardroom. If people respect and honor a leader, they will be passionate about what has been entrusted to them, and take great care of it. The guards do not to that here. A leader must show respect and honor to their people by empowering them with quality not crap.

This may not be a profound thing for you, but I wanted to post on it because I felt that so often leaders believe that everyone honors and respects them, but they never go the extra mile to take care of them. A small thing to do with church is how pastors and leaders take care of their volunteers. Are they fed on Sunday mornings? Are they given top quality equipment if they believe it would help? Do they feel appreciated? Not with just a one time a year event, but weekly?

Long post, I know. If you got this far, thanks for the support and thanks for reading anyways ☺

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Haggai: The Priority of Glory | June 6 2010 Lincoln Road

2010-06-07T08:51:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Here's my sermon from yesterday. For sure my most draining and emotional talk thus far.

The podcast description is this:

God tells us that everything is about to change. He promises that he will shake everything up by bringing His true glory into His temple. The glory He speaks of comes through Jesus Christ. God’s glory must be priority in all that we think, say and do.

Listen here

For Jesus' fame,
JK

The Disguises We Wear

2010-06-02T12:04:00.000-07:00

I don’t know about you, but I often wear a disguise. I put on a mask so no one can see whom I truly am underneath. Why? What am I afraid of? Sometimes I will smile when I’m actually really angry. Sometimes I will pretend to know something when really I have no clue. Sometimes I intentionally tell someone when I help a person in need because I want him or her to know I did it. Why do we put on disguises?

I think it is for a few reasons, and I think so based on why Jeroboam’s wife did so in 1 Kings 14. Jeroboam’s son goes ill so he sends his wife to get council from Ahijah the prophet in Shiloh. We learn that Jeroboam sent his wife in disguise so “you wont be recognized as the wife of Jeroboam.” Most believe she disguises herself so the prophet doesn’t know it’s the wife of the King. I think otherwise.

At these times, having an ill son to the throne is a sign of weakness to the kingdom because without an heir to the throne, its future is weak. If people find out the royal family is weak, the family becomes vulnerable to all sorts of attacks.

Just like Jeroboam’s wife wears a disguise in fear of people seeing her weaknesses, I think you and I wear a mask because we fear people will discover our weaknesses.

What disguises do you wear? If you’re serious about working on this, please email me and we can talk more or post something up here and let this online community work it out with you. We all have disguises. We all have weaknesses. Its time we stop acting and start being who God has made us to be.

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Catalyst Moments: Matt Chandler

2010-05-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

If you have never heard of Matt Chandler, you have now I guess. He is a pastor from Texas. He loves Jesus and teaches with explosive passion. He was also recently diagnosed with brain cancer. This dude is being used by God in awesome, huge ways and has been inspirational in my transformed life with Jesus Christ.

To keep with my Catalyst Moments theme, I will discuss what I learned from his talk in 2008, but know that if you can, check out some of his sermons here.

In 2008 at Catalyst, Matt preached from 1 Timothy 4, focusing on the power of bold preaching and giving all glory to God. It was so refreshing watching it again. (If you are interested in watching this and know me personally, please let me know, I have it on DVD). Here are a few things that stuck out! (I suggesting reading 1 Tim 4 first, because all these points come from explaining things that stood out in 1 Tim 4)

“There is a way to live, and there is a way to teach, that helps men and women see what the Gospel is and what it’s not.”

“Here’s this popular things that’s happening right now that creates such an angst in me that I don’t eve know what to do with it. Somehow doctrine, deep beautiful doctrine is somehow becoming synonymous with historic fundamentalist. And that’s not the truth. How can talking about the deep profound waters that is sanctification, Jesus Christ, the cross of Christ, what occurred in that, who God is, how he rescues us, how he ransoms us, how he reconciles us, how he brings them together; how can those be equated to death. So he (Paul) saying, when you get a chance to preach and teach, you can tell a lot of stories and say next to nothing at all or you can paint a picture of me that creates awe. Then, when there is a transformation in morality, there will be grace and humility.” (You need to hear him preach this section, wow, its powerful!)

“If you’ve been at you’re church for more than 4 years, where you’re church is weak is where you are weak. You cannot tell your people the importance of scripture but never touch it yourself. You cannot ask you people to share the gospel with your neighbours if you have not done it.”

“Guard your life and doctrine closely.”

I wish I could put down more. Agree with some of this…disagree? Thoughts?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Wise Guys and Idiots

2010-05-24T10:30:00.000-07:00

In 1 Kings 12, I believe a simple but profound lesson is to be learned. Let’s check it out.

King Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, was presented with his first major leadership task as King. The context of the story is this. The Israelites were being forced to work long and heavy hours under Jeroboams rule. Rehoboam has since taken over, and the opportunity presented itself to be a wise and gracious King by demanding honest work hours from the people. Rehoboam decided to ask two teams for advice.

The first team was the elders and wise men that served under Solomon. These guys were considered the wisest of the wisest and were undoubtedly highly respected by all the people. They told Rehoboam, “If today you will be a servant to these people…they will always be your servants.” Option 1: Be a servant to the people and you will be a great King. Ok. That sounds good. What’s option 2?

Rehoboam then asks his buddies that he grew up with, the dudes with no experience and enjoy reaping the benefits of having their buddy as the King. They give brilliant advice: “Tell these people…my father laid on you a heavy yoke; I will make it heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.” Ok, more like brainless advice than brilliant. Rehoboam takes the advice of his buddies and nothing but evil follows.

This leads to this line verses later, “So Israel has been in rebellion against the house of David to this day.” With Jesus coming from the house of David, His death was doomed.

I take a number of things from this passage, but one simple thing I am reminding myself is the wisdom that comes with listening to the wise. I have a number of great men and women around me that have been through much more hardships and joys than I have. I need to listen. I need to learn. I need to take the advice from the wise. Are you taking the advice from wise people around you?

I also learn from this story that seeking out council is key. Sure, Rehoboam was an idiot and took the advice from his not-so-wise buddies, but he did seek the advice from the wiser men, and that is something I need to take from this. We need to take initiative. Invite someone older and wiser than you out for coffee. Ask them life questions. Have a learning heart. Are you doing that?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

What is your Chief End? Your Purpose in life?

2010-05-22T17:39:00.000-07:00

I am currently working through the book of Haggai from the Old Testament. Especially examining chapter 2:1-9.

A theme that undoubtedly stands out is God’s glory.

What is that? What does it look like? Is it important? These are some of the questions I am asking.

I would like to ask you a question, and I would really enjoy any feedback you could give. When you read the following statement, do you agree? If so, why? If not, why? It comes from the opening lines of the Westminster Catechism.

“Man’s (or peoples) chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy Him forever” or as Reformer John Piper would say, “Man’s chief end is to glorify God by enjoying Him forever”

What are your thoughts? Do you agree with this? Your responses would be very helpful in my studying. Thank You.

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

SexRev Post: Have you Forgotten who you are?

2010-05-19T06:51:00.000-07:00

I just put up a new posted at SexRev.org. Please check it out.

It starts with one of my favourite scenes from the movie HOOK.

Here's the intro to the post:

In this scene, a young lost-boy discovers someone he once knew through the mask of old age. Peter Panning had forgotten who he was. Peter Panning had forgotten his true identity: Peter Pan. .... What is your true identity?

For Jesus' fame,
JK

What will be your legacy?

2010-05-18T12:11:00.000-07:00

1 Kings 11

In 1 Kings 11, one of King Solomon’s officials rebelled against the King of Israel and the King of the heavens. His name was Jeroboam. He’s the dude that had his hand shrivel up in front of his eyes (1 Kings 13:4).

What struck me about Jeroboam was his fame throughout the rest of scripture. He is one of the most quoted kings in all of scripture. Yet, you don’t hear much about him in the Christian teachings or Sunday school lessons. Why?

Because he was a leader of sin and rebellion.

When you read 1 and 2 kings, and other places in scripture, you may come across this saying: “He (the king being talked about) did evil in the eyes of the LORD, walking in the ways of Jeroboam and in his sin” That was Jeroboams legacy. One of sin, rebellion and evil.

Last summer, Karen and I went for a camping weekend away. On the first night, I remember asking her: “how do you want to be remembered when you die?” After her response, I gave mine. I’m ready to share that yet, but I thought I would let you know that I’m thinking about it, and I hope you are too.

What will be your legacy? How will people remember you? Will you remembered for your fervor for compassion? Your passion to tell people about your faith? Your love for money? Your love for fame? Your love for Jesus? What will be your legacy?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

SHAPE: Prophecy, Teaching, Encouraging

2010-05-15T09:04:00.001-07:00

I am in the middle of co-leading a two-day seminar called S.H.A.P.E.

It stands for Spiritual gifts, Heart, Ability, Personality, and Experience. The intent of the seminar is to help people better discover who God has created them to be. Last night, we spent one hour explaining each spiritual gift. Now that I have taught this a few times, I am a little more comfortable to write on them. Here are my notes from the three speaking gifts:

Prophecy
Question: Who likes to proclaim and stand for God’s truth?
The special ability to proclaim and stand for God’s truth in the face of confusion or disobedience and in a way that leads to correction, repentance or encouragement.
You may think of “telling the future” – it means more than that
You find yourself instinctively standing up for God’s truth
You are usually a little more comfortable with rebuking the disobedient and trying to bring people back to obedience to God
Your Goal: Declare Truth, don’t divide Christians

Teaching
Question: Do you get excited when someone learns from your teaching?
The ability to teach, train, and encourage Christians in the way of Christ with clarity and faithfulness to the Bible
You love to see others learn. You have a natural gift of instructing and find that others learn when you teach.
You also love to study. Teachers are readers – true in my life.
You preferring explaining why things are true
While the prophet declares truth, the teacher explains the reasons why it is true.
Your Goal: Reveal truth, don’t exhaust it.

Encouragement/Exhortation
Question: When you see something done exceptionally well, let it be sports or teaching, do you find you just want to go up to that person and tell them what a great job they did?
The unique ability to comfort, strengthen, and challenge those faced with significant choices or actions.
You lift others up often and easily
You are a natural counselor – perhaps something you should look into…
Your Goal: Apply truth, don’t create expectations

And how they all fit together... Prophets declare truth, Teachers clarify and explain truth, Exhorters and Encouragers like to tell you what to do with that truth.

What are your thoughts?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Is 700 wives too many?

2010-05-12T09:47:00.000-07:00

Reading: 1 Kings 11

When we read 1 Kings 11, we find out that King Solomon had 700 wives of noble birth and 300 concubines (prostitutes). Even if you believe having more than one wife is all right, this is just crazy. I’m good with just one wife thank you very much.

Before taking this Kings class, I had never really thought through the significance of Solomon having this many wives. Here is why Solomon having so many wives is significant.

Solomon’s vast number of wives and concubines is best interpreted politically. It could be said that Solomon had 700 alliances with foreign lands. The women would be given over to Solomon to legalize the alliance. The concubines are so great in number to ensure generations of offspring under Solomon’s name. Moreover, abundant lovers and wives can demonstrate power and strength of one’s kingship. All of these options are possible.

The quotation in 11:2 says, “You must not intermarry with them, because they will surely turn your hearts after their gods.” The reference refers to the instruction for a king in Deuteronomy 17:17, “He must not take many wives, or his heart will be led astray.” Solomon is blatantly breaking a commandment from God. We read only verses later that Solomon is indeed led astray by his wives to start worshiping foreign gods. These gods include Ashtoreth meaning destructive, violent, seductive and deceptive, and Molech the detestable god that required you to sacrifice your child to worship. Solomon is moving far from the God of Israel, so much so, he is willing to murder his offspring.

When we break a clear commandment from God, bad stuff will happen. Sabbath, for instance, is a clear command to hold fast too, yet I would say out of all the people I know that love Jesus and follow His teaching, maybe 5% keep a Sabbath. What’s the deal?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Should Mission be the Catalyst to Church?

2010-05-10T13:10:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not posting over the last few days. I have been involved with a conference in Waterloo, Ontario called Thinking Shrewdly. The main conference speaker was an Australian Missiologist (which means he’s an expert of the mission of the church) named Michael Frost. He has written a number of books asking the questions “where is the church heading and what should it do now?”

I must admit, with reading some of his stuff and hearing about him in other church related conversations, I wasn’t really looking forward to hearing what he had to say. I figured he would just be pushing everyone to go plant tree’s, save the environment and maybe talk about Jesus.

I was wrong.

There were a number of things I didn’t agree with Frost on such as the importance of preaching (as he believes it is not needed on a regular basis to a community of believers in Jesus) or the importance of the spoken word of the Gospel in one’s life or where the goal lies in raking your neighbours leaves.

But I was really challenged and stretched on a number of things (which is why I love hearing the other side…its so important to hear the other side of an argument from the side that is arguing it!). First, of the following four aspects of Church and a Christians life, which would you say should be catalyst to the others: Worship, Discipleship, Community or Mission?

Frost would say mission. When he first said it, I had serious push back (and I am still working it out now), but his reasons were pretty solid. He says that if a group of Christ followers focused on going out (being SENT!), got their hands dirty and served in the name of Christ, the other three areas would inevitably flourish. He said that in our culture today, people are so resistant to anything about faith and believe that it must first show in one’s actions, a relationship is build, and then conversations about Jesus will follow (which Frost would not push towards, he would just wait until the conversation comes up…which I would disagree with) Frost would say that the church must focus on mission and the other aspects will flourish.

There is more I want to say, so I will use another post for that. What do you think so far?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Catalyst Moments: Franklin Graham

2010-05-05T06:34:00.000-07:00

At Catalyst Conference in Atlanta in 2008, the most impacting moment for me was undoubtedly the 2 minutes and 53 seconds delivered from Franklin Graham.

I have listened to 1:42 to 4:35 of his talk over 100 times. I’ve have nearly memorized it. For most, it was probably just another talk, but for me, God used it to challenge and re-affirm me like few talks can. Here is the whole thing:

“Everything I do is for a reason. I think God puts us on earth for a purpose. We’re not here to have a good time. That’s not our reason for being here. Our purpose for coming to this earth, walking, breathing and living is to honor and bring Glory to the name of Almighty God and his son Jesus Christ.

I believe that everything in my life should be to tell others about Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul said, ‘I am not ashamed of the Gospel, cause it’s the power of God into salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and then to the Greek.’ The Gospel is God’s power. Now listen to me. This is something guys in ministry never quite get, they don’t quite get it. There is Holy Ghost power in the Gospel message.

I cannot explain it, but I can tell you right now – it works! When you tell a person that they’re a sinner. When you tell a person that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who came out of Heaven, down to this earth, who took our sins on His body, went to a cross, died and shed His blood on a cross. That he was buried in the grave, with our sins, and on the third day God raised Him to life!

You think: ‘oh really? You think people are going to believe that? That’s a little extreme in today’s culture. We need to help the Gospel just a bit.’ Let me tell you, if you do that your going to fall flat on your face in your ministry. When you preach the Gospel. When you tell a person exactly what I said: That they are sinners. That their sins separate them from God. That Jesus Christ came to this earth on a rescue mission. Jesus Christ came to this earth and he shed his blood. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No man comes to the father but by me.” When Jesus Christ came to this earth he took your sins and my sins and he went to the cross and he died and he shed his blood. You say, ‘Franklin, you really say ‘shed his blood.’’ You better believe I say shed his blood because that’s exactly what he did. He shed his blood for my sins. He was buried in the grave, and on the third day God raised him to life.

When you preach that, men and women, listen to me, when you preach that, there is Holy Spirit filled power in the Gospel because God uses His gospel to penetrate and go right into the heart of a person. And when you give an invitation, when you have given the gospel, let me tell you what happens, God uses his Gospel to touch peoples hearts and they will get up and they will come!”

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Six Questions to Ask when Preparing a Sermon

2010-04-30T12:38:00.000-07:00

I’ve been reading a book by Mark Driscoll called Vintage Church. In his chapter called, “Why is Preaching Important” he gives six questions you must ask when preparing a sermon. They can be viewed as steps in preparing to preach and speak. I have summarized his explanation, adding my own notes to help me remember. Here are the six he gives:

1. The Biblical Question: What does scripture say? Read through the text carefully. Pray through it. Check translations, do word studies, try to figure out the context

2. The Theological Question: What does scripture mean? Meaning resides in the text. Study other scriptures, read commentaries, ask friends, dialogue with people

3. The Memorable Question: What is my hook? A word, image, concept, doctrine, emotion or person needs to be the hook. Something that people will remember when they wake up Tuesday morning

4. The Apologetical Question: Why do we resist this truth? People will fight truth. Attempt to predict resistance and answer these predicted questions

5. The Missional Question: Why does this matter? Connect all that we have said to the missional purpose for our lives, families, church, city and ultimately God’s glory. Something may be true, but if people do not find it to be important and urgent, they tend not to act on it. “I like to connect Scripture to the character of God, the nature of the gospel, our mission in our city, and the quality of our lives, both individually and collectively as a city of God within our city.”

6. The Christological Question: How is Jesus the Hero-Savior? How does this sermon lift up Jesus as the hero? “I would be devastated if my wife rarely uttered my name, and Jesus’ bride, the church, is too often guilty of not speaking the name of Jesus with frequent passion from the pulpit.”

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Building my own house…waste of time!

2010-04-28T11:53:00.000-07:00

Readings: 1 Kings 6-7
I was driving through an million dollar home neighbourhood yesterday with my friend Pete. The houses were huge! They all backed onto a golf course. They had expensive cars, beautiful gardens, and lots of property. People dream to have a house like these.

Yet as we drove past, I couldn’t help but be angry. I was angry because I see zero value in having a huge house. “What a waste of money,” I thought to myself. Why do people waste their money of things that mean nothing?

I have a lot of bitterness to work out in my heart. I need to be more compassionate and understand, I know, but right now in my life, I just can’t help but be angry. Why does everyone need their own room, their own bathroom, and their own kitchen? Why do we spend all our time building our own house and kingdom, but ignore God’s? I am just ask guilty as those with the huge houses.

In 1 Kings 6-7, my friend Solomon spends most of his time building his own house and not God’s, a move that ends bad for him. We are told in 1 Kings 6:38 that it took 7 years for Solomon to build God’s house, the temple. In 1 Kings 7:1 we are told it took Solomon 13 years to build his own house. Clearly, Solomon was more interested in his own kingdom and house than God’s.

When I read this, I was bummed out that Solomon would be such a doosh bag, but then I looked at my life and realized that I’m the doosh bag. I spend so much of my time on me, it’s ridiculous. I need to focus on building God’s house and kingdom, not mine.

Just needed to vent. Thanks ☺ Also, I included a drawing with details of Solomon's temple. Click on the picture and read the details - its fascinating!

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

The Emerging Church is Dead?

2010-04-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

I recently read an article called “Farwell emerging church, 1989-2010”

The emerging church was a movement that challenged traditional ways of church and leadership by doing the opposite of what the generation before them were doing. It was a movement that was very seeker sensitive. There are a lot of different definitions of what the emerging church was, but just remember, it was a movement that tried to do Evangelical Christian church and leadership very differently than how it was done before it.

The article talks about how the idea of the emerging church is dead. Bradley says, “Reading a new book or going to a conference about the emerging church is a waste of time and money unless it’s to understand the movement as a recent historical one. The emerging church movement has ended.” Bradley is saying that the guys that started the emerging church have moved on. The lines have been drawn and the era is done. He says that the debates are over and we need to move on.

Very interesting. In my parts of Southern Ontario, churches are just starting to jump on this…slowly. But it’s over?

To be honest, this terminology annoys me a lot. Who is considered an “emerging leader”? What makes you emerging? Can older Christians be emerging? What am I emerging into?

I know in some Christian circles, you are “cool” if you are considered emerging because people think you're creative, artsy, like funky paintings and Indy rock. In other Christian circles, you are “niave and soft” if you're emerging because that means your theology is weak, you don’t like to talk about sin, and you like Brian McLaren (thats him in the picture).

Interested to hear your thoughts when you hear the words, “emerging leader/church.” Is it just a term? Does it annoy you? Where do you stand?

For Jesus fame,
JK

Wisdom: how do we get it?

2010-04-23T07:24:00.000-07:00

Reading: 1 Kings 3

We all want wisdom but how do we get it? We want to be wise to make good decisions. We want to be able to discern right from wrong. We want to be able move in the right direction. We all want wisdom.

But the thing is, most of us aren’t very wise. We may think we are, but really, we’re not. Yet we should never stop striving for more wisdom. Wisdom comes with experience and learning from your failures and mistakes. It comes with listening and learning from those wiser than us. It comes with asking for it.

King Solomon in 1 Kings asks God straight up for wisdom. In Chapter 3, the LORD told Solomon to ask for anything he wanted. So instead of a new Beemer, or an iPad, he says, “Give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong.” Wow. Solomon seemed to show much wisdom before even asking for it.

The other thing that blows me away about this chapter is that Solomon recognizes that he is young and inexperienced, but nevertheless, he trust God and pursues wisdom. In 3:7 he says, “I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties.”

Regardless of our age, I believe it is important we strive for wisdom and persistently ask God for it. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives generously…”

Does wisdom come with experience? Yes. Does it come with failure? Of course. Yet can it be given by God? Indeed. Let us listen from the wise, learn from our failures and ask God for a discerning heart. “Wisdom is supreme, therefore get wisdom.” (Proverbs 4:7)

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

4 Key Ingredients for Worship Leaders

2010-04-21T07:08:00.000-07:00

I recently finished reading the Old Testament. In that time, I came across this verse that made me think of worship leading.

“Kenaniah the head Levite was in charge of the singing; that was his responsibility because he was skillful at it.” 1 Chronicles 15:22

Over the years of leading worship in high school and university, through many mistakes and seeing what worked and what didn’t for me, I came to believe there were four key ingredients that make a good worship leader:

1. A Heart of Worship – Public worship leading should be the outflow of what is happening privately. Do you praise the Lord on your own? Do you sit down with your instrument alone and sing praises to Christ because you want to?

2. Skillful – a worship leader should be talented at what they do. Not only talented at the instrument you’re playing (guitar, keys, vocals), but talented at leading, directing, and instructing others. Do people listen to you when you ask them to stop messing around and practice? Are your practices efficient and effective while at the same time fun?

3. Be a Leader outside of just Worship Leading – a find often that a worship leader likes to just be the leader when he or she is leading worship, but when you speak with them, they aren’t a leader in the church. Are your worship leaders leading away from the stage on a Sunday?

4. Love it and Learn it – Leading worship can become a routine just like anything else. Practices on Saturday mornings, means getting up early to put a set list together, practicing for 3 hours because the first hour was a write off. Little to no prayer. And the team never worshiped together. It was just a practice. A real worship leader will love worshipping Chrsit, be called to it and love learning how to do it better! Do you worship with your family at home?

Worship Leading is just that, leading people in worship, not music. Worship leading is an art and a gift from God. For those of us that do it, I hope and pray we can do it well.

What do you think makes a good worship leader?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

1 Kings: Are we Two-Faced?

2010-04-19T12:38:00.000-07:00

Reading: 1 Kings 1

When you look at this picture, do you see two faces or a flower vase? Its deceptive isn't it?

Sometimes I question my actions and words when I do something that just doesn’t “feel like me.” I feel like I can be deceptive. For example, sometimes I try to act “tough” when playing sports, when really, I don’t have much toughness in me at all. Sometimes it can feel like I have two faces.

Adonijah, the man that tries to claim kingship when it wasn’t his to claim, has two faces!

When he was caught, Adonijah clings to the altar of the Lord in fear of Solomon. Clinging to the altar of the Lord was a plea for forgiveness and mercy. Adonijah asked for an oath of amnesty, an oath not to be put “to death with the sword.” The irony was in his characteristics.

We witness an aggressive and persuasive man drastically transformed into a coward begging for his life. We witness the “tough guy” turn into a boy asking for forgiveness for punching his brother. Adonijah drastically transformed from aggressive to reserved and begging for his life. It just doesn’t make sense, or does it?

If Adonijah was truly the aggressive type, but played the coward to spare his life, than aren’t we all faking it on some level at particular times? Shouldn’t we just “be ourselves” all the time?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

The Sex-Divorce Correlation

2010-04-17T15:50:00.000-07:00

Here is the post I put up on the blog SexRev.org. Would love to hear your comments.

"I believe there is a strong correlation between our increasingly sexually saturated cultures to the increasing divorce rate.

As I posted on my blog a few days ago, “Based on the latest Statistic Canada’s estimates put the risk of divorce by a couple’s 30th anniversary for recently married couples at 38%. It has been steadily increasing over time. In the U.S., the estimate is around 44%. That essentially means, if your getting married, you have less than 2 in 3 chance of lasting 30 years in marriage.” And that’s the lowest statistic I have seen, its usually much higher.

As our divorce rate increases, the sexual content in our culture also increases. Television is the worst for this. I could turn on the t.v. at 3:00 in the afternoon and probably find someone having sex with someone other than their spouse. Our culture is saturated with sex.

For men, this leads to an absolutely messed up view of sex and woman’s image. A man’s wife and future wife should be there standard of beauty, not the women that spend
$10,000 a year on plastic surgery. This leads to men marrying for wrong reasons, committing adultery, and then divorcing because they think they want a new standard.

For woman, (and not being a woman, I don’t fully understand, but based on what my wife has told me and what I hear, this is what I think), it’s the struggle of trying to meet those expectations that men create. Its impossible, and then their connection with their husband fades, and either he leaves or she finds her emotional support with another man and commits adultery.

As our society continues to saturate its people with sex, the world will be saturated with broken marriages.

Do you agree, disagree? Why? What are your thoughts? To you see this correlation too?"

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

What do you think Churches should talk about?

2010-04-15T13:07:00.000-07:00

Again, what do you think Churches should talk about?

If you could hear any series in church, what would you want to hear?

I know there are people that read this blog that don’t go to church – so a special thanks for reading as the focus of this blog is on Christian related issues. Thanks!

Whether you go to church or not, let me ask you this: If you walked into a church and you wished they could be talking about one issue/topic, what would it be?

Examples include: marriage, a book of the bible, sex, Jesus, deep theology, hard questions, social issues, etc. Something you think a church must address and maybe their not now.

It always bothers me when a church only teaches what they think the people need to hear instead of listening to the need and focusing on that.

Your thoughts would be priceless. Please take a moment and comment. Thanks!

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Persecuted Christians: What do I do?

2010-04-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

I recently came across this map (see below) that hit me really hard. Christians are truly being persecuted in this world. I wrote a post over a month ago that I never published on how I don’t understand persecution. I felt it was time to post it.

“I don’t even understand suffering.

I don’t understand what it feels like to wake up each morning fearing someone is in my house ready to beat me. I don’t understand the fear of stepping outside my house to a potential mob. I don’t understand fear.

We raise people up. Writers, speakers, leaders, and aspire to be like them but the whole time we miss the heroes taking a beating each day for the sake of Christ. We don’t aspire to like them. We aspire for the fame, but not for the suffering.

I need to stop aspiring to be a prominent Christian leader, and start aspiring to be like Jesus – but what was Jesus: homeless, hungry, beaten, mocked, and murdered. Do I aspire to this? Am I willing to live like this for Jesus’ name? Are You?

Professing the name of Christ has consequences. If we are living in such a way that we are not feeling those consequences, are we living it at all?

I have never seen someone die. I’ve never seen someone brutally beaten. I’ve never seen someone beaten for his or her faith. All I’ve seen and experienced is being mocked for believing in Jesus.

The Apostles died for Jesus. Jesus died for me. Am I willing to die for him? Am I willing to take a beating? To live in complete fear?

2 Corinthians 1 speaks of suffering and comfort – I’m not suffering. I’m living comfortable.

What do I do?”

1 Kings: Mom’s a Party Girl

2010-04-12T14:03:00.000-07:00

Reading: 1 Kings 1
As I jump into the accounts of 1 Kings, I truly hope you can join with me by reading the passages (as I will indicate in the subheading) and track with my comments. With a little extra commentary based on what I learned in class and making the connection to our culture and personal lives, I believe we will step back in a few months and understand 1 Kings on a whole new level!

In the first chapter of 1 Kings from the Old Testament King David is old and grey and the question everyone is asking is this: who will be King?

A young, aggressive, persuasive and undisciplined man comes forward by the name of Adonijah (characterized as the new Absalom from 2 Sam 14-15). His mothers name is Haggith (also found in 2 Samuel 3:4), which means “Party girl” or “Feast lady.” Now that’s a name you want for you daughter! Haggith would become the Queen Mother if her son were to become King, finding herself politically positioned third in power, next to the king and military commander.

As though someone declared himself or herself the Prime Minister of Canada by throwing a party, Adonijah was claiming kingship with a major party (which I’m sure his mom enjoyed). It didn’t go so well, however, because King David found out that Adonijah was claiming kingship behind his back and stopped the party by announcing the true kingship of his son Solomon on the day of the party.

Adonijah wanted the power and wanted to be discovered. For me, it goes back to focusing on being developed as a person and leader, instead of trying to be discovered. It’s so easy to hope people discover you and your greatness isn’t it?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Weddings: Contract or Covenant?

2010-04-10T13:52:00.000-07:00

I just came from a wedding ceremony; one that honored God and left everyone knowing that Jesus was the foundation to the marriage! I love when couples make Jesus the center of their wedding day and marriage!

But I couldn’t get the question out of my mind: how many people here believe that marriages are only a contract instead of a covenant.

Based on the latest Statistic Canada’s estimates put the risk of divorce by a couple’s 30th anniversary for recently married couples at 38%. It has been steadily increasing over time. In the U.S., the estimate is around 44%. That essentially means, if your getting married, you have less than 2 in 3 chance of lasting 30 years in marriage.

But isn’t divorce more or less encouraged in our society? The next generation of children is the first generation to think divorce is normal. They are the first generation to be told that marriage is a contract not a covenant!

Is marriage a contract or a covenant? What do you think and why?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Great Leadership: Loves Jesus, Humble, and Disciplined.

2010-04-08T11:01:00.000-07:00

For the last three years I have been trying to figure out what makes a great leader. Is it a strong personality? Is it the instinct to make the right decision? Is it passion? Is it vision? It is the ability to empower? Is it the ability to speak?

I believe a leader must have the following three things. If they don’t or they’re not at least working towards them, I am very hesitant to lead with them.

1. Loves Jesus more than anything – It’s when Jesus matters most. It’s when Jesus, family, and work are one, two, and three. It’s when you’ll give up anything to follow His call! I can’t stress this more how important this is. A great leader loves Jesus more than anything! Period.

2. Humility – have I ever struggled with this one! My greatest weakness in life is my pride and it holds me from truly following God. Humility is about putting others before yourself. It’s about recognizing that we’re nothing, and Jesus is everything. Humility is not about being quite, it’s about knowing when to shut up and when to talk. It’s about knowing that your not the first to come up with it. It’s about knowing that Jesus defines humility, not you. Greatness is defined by great humility.

3. Discipline – it takes hard work and sacrifice to be disciplined. Discipline is something that doesn’t come with excuses. If you’re someone that is late for everything, you lack discipline. Disciplined leaders realize that others time is more important than theirs so they arrive 5 minutes early. Disciplined leaders know when to relax and when to work hard. Greatness does not come out of circumstances but out of discipline.

I wish I could write a book on these three things! I do believe these can be developed. But it takes hard work. It takes community. It takes commitment. It takes a heart to want it. Lets not be satisfied with being good leaders, but great ones!

Would you add any to this list?

For Jesus’ fame,
JK

Great comments on Catalyst Moment: Jim Collin’s Good to Great. Check it out.