Dennis Lee Spaeth was a committed follower of Jesus Christ! When I got the call that Dennis had passed away in his sleep, I knew the world lost a great man of God, the church lost a servant, and heaven gained a saint.
As I preached his funeral on July 16, 2019, I tried to put into words his passion that everyone know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. I started the sermon with the fact that if you really want to know a person then there are three books to look at. First, their checkbook. What do they use their resources for while on this earth? Dennis used all his resources for Kingdom work. He was faithful in his tithing, faithful in his serving. Dennis spent a tremendous amount of time serving at the church in the media ministry. He loved investing in sound, lights, and video needs for our services. He specifically ran the lights. Oh, and did I mention he was legally blind? He didn't let anything stand in his way of serving. He was fully committed with his time, talents, and resources for the growth of God's Kingdom. He served on the Vision Team as he had a passion and conviction of what the church should be. He could see what others could not when it came to the church!
A second book to look at is a person's Bible. I preached Dennis funeral using his bible. He was a man in the Word of God. Although legally blind, he studied diligently and was a tremendous teacher. He used some aides to help him see the Word of God. He had memorized many scriptures and was never hesitant to share. He was a man OF the Word and IN the Word.
The third book to look at is The Lamb's Book of Life. Dennis made sure his name was recorded in The Lamb's Book of Life and wanted everyone he knew to have the same assurance of salvation. Dennis used his business as a platform for sharing Christ. He used his board positions to influence others towards Jesus. He told me, in preparation for his funeral, that he wanted me to talk more about Jesus than him. He wanted me to preach the gospel message and give an invitation. He wanted to make sure that the last public reference from his life focused on Jesus!
Dennis will be missed but his ministry will continue. Each time the church gathers for worship and the lights and sound are on, his ministry continues. Each service that is broadcast over social media, his ministry lives on. And as these outlets are used to help someone trust Jesus as Lord and Savior, his ministry is alive and well. I ended his funeral message with the following statement:
"Dennis would rather you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior than to know Dennis Spaeth."
From the heart,
Pastor BR
Thursday, July 18, 2019
Monday, June 10, 2019
Hills and Valleys
The last month has been very full! Three surgeries and a trip to the Holy Land. Wow what a roller coaster. I'll try to unpack some of the events as best I can.
I have needed hand surgery on both hands for several years. The problems progressed to the point that I had to get something done and since I'm not presently working, what better time than now. So I had the right hand done earlier in the year. Now it was time for the left. I scheduled the surgery for the week after I returned from a trip to Israel that had been booked for about a year. One week before the trip, I suffered with a kidney stone. Obviously unexpected and unplanned. The stone was such that I could not pass it so the urologist decided to perform surgery. Unfortunately the surgery was unsuccessful and a temporary procedure was done so that I would not have to cancel my trip.
Yes, I took the stone all the way to the Holy Land and back.
The Holy Land was an incredible experience. To walk in the towns and areas that Jesus walked and taught was simply amazing. I had the privilege to preach in Bethlehem, baptize people in the Jordan River, lead marriage vow renewals in Cana, have the Lord's Supper on my birthday in the Garden Tomb, and preach in the great Amphitheater in Cesarea where Paul taught and was put in prison. So many other sites including the City of Jerusalem, Jericho, Masada, etc. Truly a blessing and life changing. Our guide summed it up by saying that the tour would add color to the reading of the Bible. Places would now come alive with pictures.
Returning from the Holy Land, I did have my hand surgery and a second kidney stone surgery all in the same week. Needless to say, all went well but what a ride! I'm typing basically with one hand but a heart full of the Holy Land!
So during all of this, I have been praying and looking for my next ministry opportunity. I have to be very honest at this point. I experienced some things in the church that shocked me and disappointed me. God knows the true situation and circumstances so I'll leave it there. I have always been passionate about the church and what I walked through really made me want to walk away. I had to separate God's purpose and vision from man's actions. This has taken a lot of time and prayer. I've had to come to the realization that God truly knows and still loves. I guess I saw the power that the devil really has.
In my roller coaster ride, one thing has remained constant and true for me. Hills and valleys may occur. Fright and screams of exhilaration can happen on the same ride. But my costar never left the track! There is a destination designed by God. Valleys are created between the hills but the destination still remains. Sometimes it is fast and other times slow. It takes more time to climb the hills and the valleys come fast. Up and down. Hard to catch your breath and yet screaming at the same time. But when you arrive at the station you feel a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. I'm learning to leave the disappointments in the valleys! I'm learning to look at the hills that brings me closer to God and gives me the momentum to travel through the valleys. I never want to get stuck in the valleys!
I'm sure my next ministry opportunity will have hills and valleys. I am stronger and have a deeper faith and trust in God. Experiencing the Holy Land reminded me of just how great and powerful God truly is!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
I have needed hand surgery on both hands for several years. The problems progressed to the point that I had to get something done and since I'm not presently working, what better time than now. So I had the right hand done earlier in the year. Now it was time for the left. I scheduled the surgery for the week after I returned from a trip to Israel that had been booked for about a year. One week before the trip, I suffered with a kidney stone. Obviously unexpected and unplanned. The stone was such that I could not pass it so the urologist decided to perform surgery. Unfortunately the surgery was unsuccessful and a temporary procedure was done so that I would not have to cancel my trip.
Yes, I took the stone all the way to the Holy Land and back.
The Holy Land was an incredible experience. To walk in the towns and areas that Jesus walked and taught was simply amazing. I had the privilege to preach in Bethlehem, baptize people in the Jordan River, lead marriage vow renewals in Cana, have the Lord's Supper on my birthday in the Garden Tomb, and preach in the great Amphitheater in Cesarea where Paul taught and was put in prison. So many other sites including the City of Jerusalem, Jericho, Masada, etc. Truly a blessing and life changing. Our guide summed it up by saying that the tour would add color to the reading of the Bible. Places would now come alive with pictures.
Returning from the Holy Land, I did have my hand surgery and a second kidney stone surgery all in the same week. Needless to say, all went well but what a ride! I'm typing basically with one hand but a heart full of the Holy Land!
So during all of this, I have been praying and looking for my next ministry opportunity. I have to be very honest at this point. I experienced some things in the church that shocked me and disappointed me. God knows the true situation and circumstances so I'll leave it there. I have always been passionate about the church and what I walked through really made me want to walk away. I had to separate God's purpose and vision from man's actions. This has taken a lot of time and prayer. I've had to come to the realization that God truly knows and still loves. I guess I saw the power that the devil really has.
In my roller coaster ride, one thing has remained constant and true for me. Hills and valleys may occur. Fright and screams of exhilaration can happen on the same ride. But my costar never left the track! There is a destination designed by God. Valleys are created between the hills but the destination still remains. Sometimes it is fast and other times slow. It takes more time to climb the hills and the valleys come fast. Up and down. Hard to catch your breath and yet screaming at the same time. But when you arrive at the station you feel a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. I'm learning to leave the disappointments in the valleys! I'm learning to look at the hills that brings me closer to God and gives me the momentum to travel through the valleys. I never want to get stuck in the valleys!
I'm sure my next ministry opportunity will have hills and valleys. I am stronger and have a deeper faith and trust in God. Experiencing the Holy Land reminded me of just how great and powerful God truly is!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
Friday, May 10, 2019
Unexpected
OUCH! I didn't yell out loud but the pain was excruciating. You see, last Sunday I was sitting in church, a new church for us as we were just visiting, and all of a sudden I had this pain in my lower back. I didn't want to scream out loud and interrupt the worship. We were just visiting and I wanted to leave a positive impression. So I squirmed to get comfortable.
The preacher is really good. As I shifted around in my seat I thought he would NEVER get past his first point! A couple of times I wanted to leave but, as visitors, I didn't want them to think we were just walking out. The pain continued all the way through the invitation. When the last word was spoken we exited very quickly. I decided to skip lunch and go straight to the ER.
After a few tests and some pain medication, the diagnosis was a kidney stone on my left side. If you have had one then you fully understand the pain. I was directed to go home and drink gallons of water to help pass the stone. I drank until I floated but no stone was produced. I followed up with my urologist. Stone and size confirmed.
At this point I must tell you that I have a trip to Israel planned and paid. The doctor said I had a fifty percent chance of passing this stone. Time was not my friend. We decided to wait two more days to see if I could pass the stone. Well, no such luck. Yesterday I went in for a procedure to remove the stone and get on with life. The procedure was not successful, a few complications allowed me to keep the stone until I return from my trip. The stone can't move anymore and a stint was placed which would help things to calm down until the next procedure takes place (which will be more aggressive and complicated).
Unexpected!
These unexpected events can really mess up our plans and cause us to get get down and out. During these times friends can really lift us up with their prayers. Another encouragement I receive is from the promises and practices found in God's Word. I love to read the Psalms and be reminded of how great God is and all the works He has performed. Psalm 8 begins with,
The preacher is really good. As I shifted around in my seat I thought he would NEVER get past his first point! A couple of times I wanted to leave but, as visitors, I didn't want them to think we were just walking out. The pain continued all the way through the invitation. When the last word was spoken we exited very quickly. I decided to skip lunch and go straight to the ER.
After a few tests and some pain medication, the diagnosis was a kidney stone on my left side. If you have had one then you fully understand the pain. I was directed to go home and drink gallons of water to help pass the stone. I drank until I floated but no stone was produced. I followed up with my urologist. Stone and size confirmed.
At this point I must tell you that I have a trip to Israel planned and paid. The doctor said I had a fifty percent chance of passing this stone. Time was not my friend. We decided to wait two more days to see if I could pass the stone. Well, no such luck. Yesterday I went in for a procedure to remove the stone and get on with life. The procedure was not successful, a few complications allowed me to keep the stone until I return from my trip. The stone can't move anymore and a stint was placed which would help things to calm down until the next procedure takes place (which will be more aggressive and complicated).
Unexpected!
These unexpected events can really mess up our plans and cause us to get get down and out. During these times friends can really lift us up with their prayers. Another encouragement I receive is from the promises and practices found in God's Word. I love to read the Psalms and be reminded of how great God is and all the works He has performed. Psalm 8 begins with,
"O Lord, our Lord, How excellent is Your name in all the earth,
Who have set your glory above the heavens!"
The Psalm 9 says:
"I will praise You, O Lord, with my whole heart;
I will tell of Your marvelous works.
I will be glad and rejoice in You;
I will sing praise to Your name, O most High."
When the unexpected happens, return to the truth that you know about God!
My next kidney stone procedure is booked. The good news is that before that takes place, I get to walk in the Holy Land and worship the Lord!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
Friday, April 12, 2019
The Masters
Every year the first part of April brings us The Masters. Augusta National hosts the most prestigious golf tournament in the world. The tournament draws players and fans from around the world to the most beautiful golf course ever designed. Many years ago a friend of mine used to run barefoot on the ninth hole as a child. The grass felt like carpet. Of course this was at night to avoid being caught! The history is amazing as the course has hosted presidents to amateurs. Thousands of people try to get a ticket for just one day, even if it's just a practice round. Definitely one of the most difficult sporting event ticket to get.
What is also amazing is the location of the course. You can drive right by the course and not even know it if you are not paying attention. It is tucked away behind large bushes and fences. Hidden in the city of Augusta. If you get the chance to ride up Magnolia Lane, you feel like you are entering into another world. The outside world is shut out as no phones or electronics are allowed on the course. You are truly unplugged. It really does feel like another world!
I am always in awe of The Masters tournament and the pageantry that surrounds the event. Very exclusive in so many ways with every serious golfer's bucket list has it at the top. As great as The Masters experience is, there is another experience that is even greater!
Every year we have the opportunity to celebrate Easter. Almost as though it is tucked away in our world and many drive by through life without taking notice. It is exclusive, for only those who put faith in Jesus Christ have membership privileges. It's not that it is so hard to gain entrance because the price has been paid in full. It is by invitation and Christ has invited everyone. Sadly, only a few will respond. A placed is being built for us that is beyond even our greatest imagination. The celebration is out of this world!
You have access to the most coveted place ever created, not by man but by God. Just imagine running barefoot across the beautiful place created by God just for us. The cross of Easter is God's grand invitation and the empty tomb is the celebration. All the hazards and obstacles in life have been defeated. The ceremony is set for eternity!
If you have the opportunity to attend The Masters, by all means go! The experience is simply breathtaking. But whatever you do, DON'T miss God's greater invitation for all eternity! Put your faith in Jesus Christ and you will win in life and eternity!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
What is also amazing is the location of the course. You can drive right by the course and not even know it if you are not paying attention. It is tucked away behind large bushes and fences. Hidden in the city of Augusta. If you get the chance to ride up Magnolia Lane, you feel like you are entering into another world. The outside world is shut out as no phones or electronics are allowed on the course. You are truly unplugged. It really does feel like another world!
I am always in awe of The Masters tournament and the pageantry that surrounds the event. Very exclusive in so many ways with every serious golfer's bucket list has it at the top. As great as The Masters experience is, there is another experience that is even greater!
Every year we have the opportunity to celebrate Easter. Almost as though it is tucked away in our world and many drive by through life without taking notice. It is exclusive, for only those who put faith in Jesus Christ have membership privileges. It's not that it is so hard to gain entrance because the price has been paid in full. It is by invitation and Christ has invited everyone. Sadly, only a few will respond. A placed is being built for us that is beyond even our greatest imagination. The celebration is out of this world!
You have access to the most coveted place ever created, not by man but by God. Just imagine running barefoot across the beautiful place created by God just for us. The cross of Easter is God's grand invitation and the empty tomb is the celebration. All the hazards and obstacles in life have been defeated. The ceremony is set for eternity!
If you have the opportunity to attend The Masters, by all means go! The experience is simply breathtaking. But whatever you do, DON'T miss God's greater invitation for all eternity! Put your faith in Jesus Christ and you will win in life and eternity!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
Friday, March 15, 2019
Left-Handed
I am NOT left-handed. I have nothing against left-handed people. As a matter of fact, I would have preferred to play baseball left-handed. Or at least batted as a "lefty." I am right handed in everything I do. Well, that is, until I recently had surgery on my right arm and hand.
I had suffered for some time with tingling and numbness in both my hands. My right hand became much worse and began to wake me up during the night with a burning sensation. Whenever I talked on the phone or drove the car some distance, my hand(s) would go to sleep. When I tried doing some home repairs I would often drop whatever tool I was using. Writing letters and signing my name became somewhat painful.
So, after my stroke in November of 2018, I decided that it was time to get my hands checked out. Result: carpal tunnel in both, cubital tunnel in both, and trigger finger on the right hand (I'm still a pretty good shot with a handgun). Best option: Surgery! I decided to start with the right hand since it was the most damaged. Surgery procedure went well. I came home with it securely wrapped and in a sling. It was to remain wrapped for two weeks until my follow-up appointment to get the stitches out. I instantly became left-handed!
Being left-handed changed everything concerning my daily routine. Awkward and uncomfortable was the daily struggle. Eating, bathing, brushing teeth, and even writing some was just strange. I had to really think through what I was doing as nothing was automatic anymore. Over the two weeks I got pretty good using my left hand. Well, at least I could accomplish the needed tasks.
My follow-up appointment went well but it really hurt when they took the stitches out (and I am not a baby about such things). Bandage off, stitches out, and the right hand free. Free but not very flexible. Actually, very sore and swollen. Useable to a degree but therapy a must.
As we read the Bible, God brings to light changes He wants to make. A new way of thinking. A new way of doing things. This change can seem awkward at first and makes us really think and pray. After some time we become pretty good at following Him, not perfect but acceptable. God does surgery on our heart that can require some therapy (or practicing obedience). The more we line up with His way, the more our life is pleasing to Him. Don't let the struggle cause you to quit. Work through the pains of obedience.
In a few months I will have my left hand repaired. I know what to expect AND I will have a great right hand to get me through! I want to encourage you through the awkward frustrating times of life and growth. Things will get better and you will be whole again. Don't give up! Remember: the scars prove that healing has taken place!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
I had suffered for some time with tingling and numbness in both my hands. My right hand became much worse and began to wake me up during the night with a burning sensation. Whenever I talked on the phone or drove the car some distance, my hand(s) would go to sleep. When I tried doing some home repairs I would often drop whatever tool I was using. Writing letters and signing my name became somewhat painful.
So, after my stroke in November of 2018, I decided that it was time to get my hands checked out. Result: carpal tunnel in both, cubital tunnel in both, and trigger finger on the right hand (I'm still a pretty good shot with a handgun). Best option: Surgery! I decided to start with the right hand since it was the most damaged. Surgery procedure went well. I came home with it securely wrapped and in a sling. It was to remain wrapped for two weeks until my follow-up appointment to get the stitches out. I instantly became left-handed!
Being left-handed changed everything concerning my daily routine. Awkward and uncomfortable was the daily struggle. Eating, bathing, brushing teeth, and even writing some was just strange. I had to really think through what I was doing as nothing was automatic anymore. Over the two weeks I got pretty good using my left hand. Well, at least I could accomplish the needed tasks.
My follow-up appointment went well but it really hurt when they took the stitches out (and I am not a baby about such things). Bandage off, stitches out, and the right hand free. Free but not very flexible. Actually, very sore and swollen. Useable to a degree but therapy a must.
As we read the Bible, God brings to light changes He wants to make. A new way of thinking. A new way of doing things. This change can seem awkward at first and makes us really think and pray. After some time we become pretty good at following Him, not perfect but acceptable. God does surgery on our heart that can require some therapy (or practicing obedience). The more we line up with His way, the more our life is pleasing to Him. Don't let the struggle cause you to quit. Work through the pains of obedience.
In a few months I will have my left hand repaired. I know what to expect AND I will have a great right hand to get me through! I want to encourage you through the awkward frustrating times of life and growth. Things will get better and you will be whole again. Don't give up! Remember: the scars prove that healing has taken place!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
Saturday, February 16, 2019
That Dog Will Hunt
I recently returned from the Grand National Bird Dog Trials in Grand Junction, Tennessee. This is a fantastic event where the top dogs compete over a two week period. Dogs have to qualify to even be considered for competition. These are expensive dogs that can make big money. No, I don't own such a dog! I just like to watch them run. Handlers, judges, owners, and the gallery are all on horseback.
It is truly amazing to watch these dogs work. There are two braces each day. Each brace lasts three hours. The dog runs for three hours sniffing out coveys of quail. They are highly trained and conditioned to "hunt" over various terrain covering some 28-30 miles. Longer than a marathon! Each "point" the dog makes is judged on many levels. The handlers are judged as well. Thankfully the gallery is NOT judged.
I have been going to these trials for almost twenty years. During that time I have seen dogs run in beautiful 60 degree weather as well as 15-20 degree snowy days. The heart of the dogs is truly a sight to watch. The dogs run two at a time and they can't wait to run. They are so excited about the hunt. Their noses are always searching for that familiar scent. They will bypass all other scents (hopefully) to find that specific smell that lets them know a covey is close. The dog that wins gets the most points that are productive and high quality.
This year I spent three days on horseback following these beautiful dogs in admiration of their abilities. I was thinking about the heart of these dogs and the heart of Christians. We have a "handler" that gives us directions on the path we should go. We have training. We know what we are supposed to be after. We face distractions and conditions that challenge our heart. We are encouraged to run the race and finish well. So how are we doing?
Do you give up easily? Are you distracted by other things that look so good and promise so much? Are you listening to the handler? Are you staying on the course? No all dogs finish their respective brace. Some run so far off course that they are disqualified. Some can't go the distance and stop short. Others may get "on point" but there are no birds. Some just don't pay attention to their handler!
How are you running this Christian race called life? I pray you will run like the champion God has made you. He has a prize for you greater than you could ever imagine!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
I have been going to these trials for almost twenty years. During that time I have seen dogs run in beautiful 60 degree weather as well as 15-20 degree snowy days. The heart of the dogs is truly a sight to watch. The dogs run two at a time and they can't wait to run. They are so excited about the hunt. Their noses are always searching for that familiar scent. They will bypass all other scents (hopefully) to find that specific smell that lets them know a covey is close. The dog that wins gets the most points that are productive and high quality.
This year I spent three days on horseback following these beautiful dogs in admiration of their abilities. I was thinking about the heart of these dogs and the heart of Christians. We have a "handler" that gives us directions on the path we should go. We have training. We know what we are supposed to be after. We face distractions and conditions that challenge our heart. We are encouraged to run the race and finish well. So how are we doing?
Do you give up easily? Are you distracted by other things that look so good and promise so much? Are you listening to the handler? Are you staying on the course? No all dogs finish their respective brace. Some run so far off course that they are disqualified. Some can't go the distance and stop short. Others may get "on point" but there are no birds. Some just don't pay attention to their handler!
How are you running this Christian race called life? I pray you will run like the champion God has made you. He has a prize for you greater than you could ever imagine!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
Friday, January 4, 2019
What's New?
Welcome to 2019!
Wow! Only 19 years ago we were dreading the Y2K projected events. Almost twenty years ago many thought the world would shut down. Great expectation but nothing major happened. Maybe a few minor "hiccups" but certainly not the end of time. So what are the expectations for 2019? What will be new?
I can only predict the past with some certainty but not the future. I look to the new year based on the promises from the Word of God. The challenges we face can be answered through His Word. Here are a few things I can be sure of:
1. If Believers don't get serious about discipleship, we will continue to lose ground in reaching this world for Christ. Every true believer is to be a growing disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ.
2. If the church doesn't get serious about its purpose and mission, it will continue to shrink in size and influence. As long as members consider things like attendance, tithing, missions, and worship as "optional" the church will continue to sacrifice its place in the world.
3. If Leaders in the church continue to fight for "their way" instead of God's design, people will continue to be hurt and leave the church. Staff and other leaders must be fully committed to the mission and purpose given to the church by God instead of their own agendas. The church will continue to be a social gathering until the staff and leaders get in tune with God and His Word concerning the church. Gathering a crowd is not the agenda of the church. Reaching the world through the Great Commission and The Great Commandment is!
4. The church is the only hope for the world as placed here by God. Terms like, "my church," "my way," "what I want," "the way I like it," should never cross the lips of true Godly leaders. When it becomes "your church" it ceases to be God's church.
5. If the church doesn't get serious concerning biblical leadership and holding leaders to the standard of scriptures, then the church will continue struggle. Overlooking biblical teachings and allowing compromise in leadership standards and conduct will continue to diminish the church. Being "ok" with practices of sin among leaders is deadly. Leaders should never be worshipped nor should they be treated with disrespect and dishonesty. Gossip kills.
I am very passionate about the church. I have spent my life serving the Lord Jesus through the local church. What I have seen and experienced in the local church is very disturbing. I still believe the church is God's great plan for reaching the world. It is through the church that His great Mission and Mandate are to be accomplished. It is time that the church follows the Word of God passionately, follows God appointed leaders respectfully, and serves sacrificially.
So "What's New?" I pray that the church becomes new and effective by returning to the Word of God in all ways. Jesus Christ loves the church and gave His life for the church to do His will. The church is His hands and feet. The church is His heartbeat for the world. The church is His and not ours. We SERVE a mighty God, we do not own Him! Maybe 2019 will see the emergence of the church as God has intended and designed. Prayerfully, the church will capture the attention of the world!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
Wow! Only 19 years ago we were dreading the Y2K projected events. Almost twenty years ago many thought the world would shut down. Great expectation but nothing major happened. Maybe a few minor "hiccups" but certainly not the end of time. So what are the expectations for 2019? What will be new?
I can only predict the past with some certainty but not the future. I look to the new year based on the promises from the Word of God. The challenges we face can be answered through His Word. Here are a few things I can be sure of:
1. If Believers don't get serious about discipleship, we will continue to lose ground in reaching this world for Christ. Every true believer is to be a growing disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ.
2. If the church doesn't get serious about its purpose and mission, it will continue to shrink in size and influence. As long as members consider things like attendance, tithing, missions, and worship as "optional" the church will continue to sacrifice its place in the world.
3. If Leaders in the church continue to fight for "their way" instead of God's design, people will continue to be hurt and leave the church. Staff and other leaders must be fully committed to the mission and purpose given to the church by God instead of their own agendas. The church will continue to be a social gathering until the staff and leaders get in tune with God and His Word concerning the church. Gathering a crowd is not the agenda of the church. Reaching the world through the Great Commission and The Great Commandment is!
4. The church is the only hope for the world as placed here by God. Terms like, "my church," "my way," "what I want," "the way I like it," should never cross the lips of true Godly leaders. When it becomes "your church" it ceases to be God's church.
5. If the church doesn't get serious concerning biblical leadership and holding leaders to the standard of scriptures, then the church will continue struggle. Overlooking biblical teachings and allowing compromise in leadership standards and conduct will continue to diminish the church. Being "ok" with practices of sin among leaders is deadly. Leaders should never be worshipped nor should they be treated with disrespect and dishonesty. Gossip kills.
I am very passionate about the church. I have spent my life serving the Lord Jesus through the local church. What I have seen and experienced in the local church is very disturbing. I still believe the church is God's great plan for reaching the world. It is through the church that His great Mission and Mandate are to be accomplished. It is time that the church follows the Word of God passionately, follows God appointed leaders respectfully, and serves sacrificially.
So "What's New?" I pray that the church becomes new and effective by returning to the Word of God in all ways. Jesus Christ loves the church and gave His life for the church to do His will. The church is His hands and feet. The church is His heartbeat for the world. The church is His and not ours. We SERVE a mighty God, we do not own Him! Maybe 2019 will see the emergence of the church as God has intended and designed. Prayerfully, the church will capture the attention of the world!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
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