Pure Church

Monday, October 08, 2007

Finding Reliable Men: One Woman Man

Paul continues in his treatement of qualifications for leadership in the Lord's church. He has placed desire in the pole position and followed that with an ominbus statement of qualification: above reproach.

The first item the Apostle then lists, perhaps explicating "above reproach," is "the husband of but one wife." The phrase rendered more literally is "one woman man." And, here, there are some differences of opinion as to precisely what is meant.

Calvin follows Chrysostom in asserting that Paul "expressly condemns polygamy." Calvin argues that "Paul forbids polygamy in all who hold the office of a bishop, because it is a mark of an unchaste man, and of one who does not observe conjugal fidelity." D.A. Carson takes this position as well.

John MacArthur does not understand "one woman man" to refer to marital status at all, but to moral and sexual purity. "This qualification heads the list, because it is in this area that leaders are most prone to fail." MacArthur rejects the polygamy argument, saying it was "not common in Roman society and clearly forbidden by Scripture." The phrase is addressing sexual purity, not marital status.

In his excellent series of sermons on 1 Timothy, Phil Ryken makes the following observation:

To be above reproach, an elder must be 'the husband of one wife.' This does not prohibit bachelors from serving as elders. Commonly, elders will be married, and God will use the demands of their callings as husbands and fathers to do much of the sanctifyinig work that needs to be done in their lives before they are ready to serve as officers in the church. But remember that Paul himself was single and commended singleness to others as an opportunity for greater service in the kingdom of God (1 Cor. 7:17; 9:5). Some suggest that the phrase means 'married only once.' This would disqualify widowers who remarry, as well as men who have been through a divorce. If this is what Paul meant, however, one might expect him to be more explicit.

The point of the phrase is probably more general: elders must be morally accountable for their sexuality. The Greeks and the Romans of the day generally tolerated gross sexual sin. Polygamy was practiced by both Greeks and Jews. Marriage was undermined by frequent divorce, widespread adultery, and rampant homosexuality. The words of Demosthenes show the scope of the problem: 'Mistresses we keep for the sake of pleasure, concubines for the daily care of our persons, but wives to bear us legitimate children'.

Though there are some differences in what Paul may particulary have in view with this phrase, all would agree that sexual purity is a prerequisite for holding the office of elder.

And not surprisingly, there must be an examination of a man's life in this regard. How do we find the sexually pure "one woman man" in the congregation?

Questions and Observations for Single Men

1. What are the man's habits regarding dating and fellowship with Christian women? A man given to serial dating may be undiscerning and careless with the hearts of Christian sisters. If he is "playful" in matters of the heart, he may need discipleship in this area and will not be an appropriate example to the flock. Does he treat sisters in the faith "with absolute purity" (1 Tim. 5:2). Is that evident in the single man's social conduct with other women?

2. What are a man's entertainment choices? Does he view sexually explicit material or pornography? If he is embattled with this issue, it's best not to make such a man an elder. He will be responsible for being an example, teaching younger men to be self-controlled (Titus 2:6), and a life of sexual impurity is incongruent with the office.

3. Related to the above, how does the man battle lust? Does he gouge out his eye and cut off his hands (Matt. 5:27-30)? The warfare against sexual immorality must be waged at the level of desire. Men in the eldership should fight their sins like Christians, which means they must radically deny opportunity for the flesh, the world, and the devil to excite lusts leading to sin. And they must cultivate a deeper desire for Christ and the things of Christ. A single man who maintains camouflage in this area, or who flirts with or coddles his lust, is a danger to himself and others. An elder must accept and desire accountability in this area.

Of course, these are questions that apply to married men as well. But with a single man, determining if he is a "one woman man" requires thinking about the trajectory of his affections rather than examining his marital behavior. Do his behaviors "tend toward" purity or do they suggest immaturities to be avoided?

Questions and Observations for Married Men

1. Does the man evidence fidelity to his wife? Is he faithful emotionally and physically? A potential elder should be asked directly if he is in or has had an adulterous relationship with another woman, if he has broken the marital covenant. And if not the physical act, has he become emotionally involved with someone in a way that disqualifies him from the office? It would be wise to have this conversation with his wife as well. She may provide insight into the husband's attitude and behavior that may be blind spots for him. And it's wise to know whether the wife supports her husband as qualified for eldership. It's better to know these things previous to making a man an elder. The position and requirements of eldership will only add stress to any fractures that may already be present.

2. Does he organize his interactions with female coworkers and ladies in the church in a way that provides full accountability and transparency? For example, is he careful to avoid potentially compromising and tempting situations with women (traveling or meeting alone, etc.)? Elders who work in co-ed environments ought to be the kind of men that are trusted by female co-workers--not because they've proven themselves good counselors in intimate matters but because they've appropriately avoided such intimate encounters altogether and established safe distance from temptation.

3. Is the potential elder faithful in making his home marriage centered? By God's design, at the center of the family is sthe marriage of one man and one woman (Gen. 2:24). Men and women leave and cleave from their parents and become one flesh. Being a one-woman man means, in part, maintaining a family atmosphere that disallows other people or things (children and work, for example) from displacing the marriage as the center of the family. This is part of what it means to have a well-ordered home. A potential elder prizes his wife even above the other precious people in the home and in earthly relationships directs his affections to that one woman first and foremost.

Thursday, October 04, 2007

Finding Reliable Men: Those Above Reproach

"If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. Therefore an overseer must be above reproach..." (1 Tim. 3:1-2a).

The nobility of the pastoral office requires a certain character. The reliable men churches are to seek for the office must be men whose inner and outer lives are sewn together with integrity and Christ-like character.

The second characteristic that Paul lists after desire is "above reproach." This first characteristic is really an umbrella for all those that follow. A man is to be blameless in his outward conduct. He is to be upright and just in his dealings with others.

Paul says that the elder is to be beyond question in this regard. It's a reputation that is deserved. An elder is to be the kind of man that no one suspects of wrongdoing and immorality, the kind of man that people would be surprised or shocked to hear charged with such acts. It's certainly not that he is sinless or perfect, but that his demeanor and behavior over time has garnered well-deserved respect and admiration from others. This is critically important because once an elder at least two things are assumed: that man is then held out as an example for all areas of life to all the sheep (1 Tim. 4:12; 1 Pet. 5:1-3) and elders are to be granted the benefit of the doubt in the protection from charges they receive in the congregation (1 Tim. 5:19). One of the worst thing you can have is a man lacking in character setting a bad example while being shielded by the generosity of judgment the office warrants.

Another critically important thing is that an elder be held in high esteem for his character, not for his wealth, popularity at parties, or any such worldly thing. There is a real temptation and pitfall when it comes to discerning whether men meet this requirement of being beyond reproach. We may be tempted to grant this status to men on the grounds that they have "made it in the business world," "have a long family history with the church," or "everyone really likes Joe, he's a great guy." The apostle isn't commending notariety in those terms, but a dignity of character commensurate with the office. If a man is popular in the worldly sense but lacks the "beyond reproach" character Paul identifies, he will likely lead out of his popularity instead of character. He may fear man more than God (a temptation at times acutely felt in the office), or attempt to run the church like his business, or assume certain "rights" because of his standing in the community or his family name. That man may cripple an eldership for a time.

All Christians must be above reproach, but Christian elders must be so. How do we find such men? How do we train men in this attribute?

On the Lookout for Those "Beyong Reproach": Some Observations to Make (Please add others)

1. Take note of those men who are faithful in their dealings inside the church. For example, do they keep their commitment to give regularly and sacrificially to the church? Do they swear to their own hurt, keeping their word when others might not blame them for backing out of a commitment?

2. Take note of men who "command respect" (in the best sense of the phrase) from others. Are there men who inspire uprightness in others? Perhaps by their very presence people out of respect for them seem to "straighten up" or show more zeal. Perhaps he is a man that everyone turns to or nominates for positions requiring ethical integrity because they are confident he will "do the right thing."

3. Take note of those men who carry on their lives outside the church with integrity. Are they men who show up to work on time, or men who can't hold a steady job because of poor work habits? Are they men who manage their financial affairs well, paying debts and living within their means, or are they men living beyond their means financially and failing to meet obligations?

Some Questions to Ask (Please Add Others)
Assuming church leaders have such a man in view, a few questions might be asked during the "courting" of that man for eldership.

1. Is there anything in your life you feel disqualifies you for serving as an elder? It's a wide open question but a good basic way of beginning to hear the man's self-assessment and possibly find out more about his integrity.

2. Would any of your coworkers or family be surpised to hear that you were a leader in your church? Here, you're sorta probing for whether the man's reputation is good among others outside the church. The question relies on the man's knowledge (imperfect) of his reputation among others, but it's a start. Church leaders may decide to ask this question of some of the man's business associates or coworkers to get a response from them as well.

3. Are there persons who would say you should not serve in any church's leadership? And why would they say this? Elders are to enjoy good reputations inside and outside the church. If there is some outstanding "beef" from others, it would be good to explore (a) the nature of that dispute, (b) how the potential elder has handled that issue--whether godly or not, and (c) whether the opinion of others disqualify the man.

CONCLUSION
The character of the elder is paramount in importance. The nobility of the office requires that only men with befitting integrity hold it. In a day where most people, Christians included, are repulsed by the idea of "judging others," being patient to discern mature and "beyond reproach" character for potential elders may be one of the most difficult things churches do in finding reliable men. But it's necessary for the health and purity of the Lord's Bride.

And because it's necessary, cultivating this kind of integrity--both in the current elders of a church and prospective elders--is critical. Questions, encouragement, and accountability regarding our conduct in various settings should constantly be on the agenda in our discipling and teaching efforts.

Wednesday, October 03, 2007

Finding Reliable Men, 1

"And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others" (2 Tim. 2:2).

These are the Apostle Paul's well-known words to Timothy, his "dear son" in the faith, a young man who had grown up in the spiritual instruction of his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice (2 Tim. 2:2, 5). It's a deeply tender letter at almost every verse. The apostle is writing in the "shadow of the gallows" as one commentator put it, and he is giving his final instructions and exhortations to this young pastor who has traveled, served, and learned alongside him.

Among the many jewels in this letter is Paul's charge to Timothy to find and entrust "reliable men" with the things Timothy has learned from Paul. The apostle's teaching is to live on, being passed from faithful hand to faithful hand. Consequently then, the pastor is one who of necessity must be able to spot such reliable men and be able to train them in this stewardship. If a man is not given to discipling others in this way, it's likely that he is not called to the pastoral office.

Okay... that's the easy part... saying that a pastor must do this or that. But practically, what does this look like? How is it done? What are some effective and less effective approaches to fulfilling this charge?

In this series of posts, I want to invite the pastors/elders out there to a conversation about finding and training faithful men for the task of leadership in the church. I'm no expert. I haven't been at this very long at all and I'm certain there are tons of men out there who have and are doing it well. So, as we work through the list of qualities the Apostle Paul lays out in 1 Timothy 3, I hope folks--as Paul does here with Timothy--will contribute with their experiences and learning.

Today, we focus briefly on the first qualification Paul lists in 1 Timothy 3:1--"If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task" (NIV). "If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task" (ESV).

In our finding and entrusting reliable men, we're first to look for men who desire this "noble task." We're to find men who have a "heart for it," who "aspire to the office."

This, in my experience, isn't as straightforward as the words suggest. Has anyone out there come across men who "want the office," who lust for it really, but aren't fit for the task? And conversely, has anyone come across men who are fit for the office but think that desiring it is a show of pride or ungodly ambition or impoliteness? Then there are those who are probably qualified but lack desire because of some "super elder" image don't think they're qualified.

Practically speaking, one of the first things Timothy has to do is clarify and teach godly ambition, including the godliness of aspiring to be an elder. A number of the elders at CHBC are faithful in encouraging young men (including 20-somethings) to include in their personal aspirtation or goals the goal of being an elder (at least qualified to be an elder). Especially when one considers that the only quality peculiar to eldership in this list is "apt to teach," that all the other qualities are things that should mark every Christian, this challenge to aspire to be an elder is good and godly. It's another way of saying to Christian men this is what Christian maturity and Christ-likeness looks like. And that's to be desired, not shyed away from or down-played. Can you imagine the upward toward Christ pull and power of having a church filled with men strongly desiring/aspiring in a godly fashion for leadership? In my experience, the problem is generally the opposite... men aspiring for comfort, anonymity, ease and just about anything else except "the office of overseer."

Secondly, practically, Timothy will likely have to clarify and teach the goodness of the leadership task. Paul calls leadership in the local church "noble." And it is. But there may exist the impression that it's a burden, a headache, or a necessary evil. So it may be necessary, without painting a false picture of unending comfort, to develop, discuss, preach, and model joy in the ministry. After all, it's the Lord's intent that leading His church be a joy to those men with the privilege (Heb. 13:17b). Part of the nobility of the task comes from the privilege of modeling Christ for His people. The elder is to be an example in all things (1 Tim. 4:12). The man not desiring to model Christ should be asked, "What exactly do you intend and think is more worthwhile to model than Christ?" It's also noble because it's necessary. The Lord designed the church in such a way that it requires godly leaders. The sheep need shepherds. And tending the sheep is a good thing.

The task is noble and therefore to be desired.

But practically, what are some things we can do/questions to ask to discern which men have this godly ambition?

Some observations to make (feel free to add others):

1. Note those men who are regularly in attendance at the church's services (Sunday morning and night if you have one, mid-week prayer or Bible study) and the church's business meetings. Start with those who already show an active commitment to the ministry and who will be models of that commitment to the body.

2. Note the men who already appear to be shepherding members of the church yet without the title "elder" or "pastor." Who are the men that care for others by visiting or practicing hospitality, giving counsel (being often sought after by others), and who participate in the teaching ministry of the church.

3. Note those men who show respect and trust in the existing leadership, who work to understand the directions leadership pursue, who ask good/apropriate questions in appropriate settings, who avoid creating confusion or dissension in public meetings, etc.

4. Be patient and note those men who evidence the desire over time. Watch a man; encourage him. But observe the desire in fruitful seasons, in dry times, when he is full of joy, and when he is sorrowful. Does the desire persist, grow, and strengthen, or fade, wither, and weaken?

Some questions to ask (feel free to add many others)

These are just a few things we might ask of those who catch our eye:

1. Have you ever thought of being an elder? Start here. Many have never considered it and will be surprised that we ask. Others have considered it and maybe put it out of their minds because of some incorrect impressions we may be able to correct. For those who have not considered it, we should be prepared to give them some reasons why they should, ranging from "this is one way of defining Christ-like maturity for Christian men" to "I've seen these particular things in you that suggest to me this is something you should think about."

2. Have you considered that your lack of desire might be an indication of spiritual complacency or misdirection? Again, this question builds on the teaching that desiring the office is a good thing and that the qualifications for the office are a good self-assessment for Christian maturity. Pastorally, we want to press that vision into our men.

3. Why do you desire to be an elder? To what extent are you aware of anything impure (pride, power, etc) in your motives? This is a question, obviously, for those who are considering eldership. Because we don't want to lay hands on any man hastily, we need to practically tease out godly ambition from impure motives. None of us are perfect in our motivations; we're all sinners who wrestle with some mixture indwelling sin. But due diligence requires we help a man excavate his heart and that we inspect what's unearthed. Are we looking at a humble man desiring to serve, or an unsubmissive, proud seeker after control? What's the source of his eagerness and desire? We're to avoid calling men who may desire oversight "for shameful gain" or to be "domineering over those in our charge" (1 Pet. 5:3).

4. Have you ever considered what would happen to the church, to the sheep, if they have no shepherd? Does your heart respond the same way as Jesus' at the sight of shepherdless sheep? (Matt. 9:36; Mark 6:34) This is for those men who may recognize giftedness and some qualification but who may be shrinking away from leadership. Sometimes it's helpful to take the man's eyes off himself and focus them on the people he would be called to serve. More is at stake than whether or not an individual feels "comfortable" with the idea of leadership, though that should be attended to. At stake is the spiritual care of the sheep.

5. Have you considered what your avoidance of leadership teaches the congregation about this noble task and the care of souls? This is for men who are already seen as "shepherds" in the eyes of the body. Sometimes gifted, qualified men are helped to realized that even in their avoiding of the role they are teaching the congregation something about leadership. They are teaching them that even the men most spiritual and gifted in the eyes of the body think this is a burdensome or unnecessary task. And in teaching that by example, men unintentionally may lower the congregation's standard and expectation for its leaders and consequently lowering the quality of spiritual care and oversight they and future generations may receive. After all, the congregation is commanded to "Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consder the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith" (Heb. 13:7).

CONCLUSION

Finding men who desire the noble task of overseer is of great importance. Choosing pastors is the most important decision a congregation makes, for the pastors will shape the congregation through their teaching and their model. And given that, the Lord calls us to find men who "shepherd the flock of God... exercising oversight... willingly, as God would have [us]... eagerly... being examples to the flock" (1 Pet. 5:2-3). May the Lord give us discernment, patience, and clarity of thought and observation as we seek reliable men who desire this noble task.

Monday, October 01, 2007

Speaking of Conferences...

The Desiring God conference audio and video is all online. If you've missed this, you'll probably want to carve out some serious time to listen and enjoy. I really wish I could have been there for this one.

Here are the sessions and speakers:

Certainties that Drive Enduring Ministry, Part 1 -- John MacArthur

A Conversation with John Piper and John MacArthur

Four Essentials to Finishing Well -- Jerry Bridges

Getting Old for the Glory of God -- John Piper

Certainties that Drive Enduring Ministry, Part 2 -- John MacArthur

Today's Decisions Determine Who You'll Be Tomorrow -- Randy Alcorn

Speaker Panel Q&A

A Call for the Perseverance of the Saints -- Helen Roseveare

Women's Conference with Noel Piper

The sisters at Capitol Hill Baptist Church are hosting a women's conference that promises to be edifying and challenging. The conference will be held, D.V., October 12-13 at CHBC. Noel Piper is scheduled to be the keynote speaker. And the theme is a "Psalm 91 Woman."

A description from the conference information page:
"Noel will be speaking on "The Psalm 91 Woman"--a meditation on living as a godly woman without fear. She will explore how this psalm speaks to women today as we strive for godliness in our busy, modern lives. Noel will also bring us the story of Betsy Stockton, a woman from the past who exemplifies a life without fear. Times of teaching will be accentuated by worship, Scripture, and prayer."

If you're in the DC area Oct. 12-13, prayerfully consider joining the ladies at CHBC for a tiem of fellowship in the word. Registration closes Oct. 1st (today!) so register today.

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Around the Blog in 80 Seconds

Today, I'm settling back into the routine at FBC Grand Cayman after a simply glorious time of fellowship over the weekend with the saints at CHBC and dear friends from NC. As I do, I'm benefitting from much of what has gone on around the blog this past week. So, I thought I'd post a few links:

Many people often look at me with a grin and nod when they learn I'm a pastor in the beautiful Cayman Islands. They imagine it's all sun and surf. They have no idea that the underwater beauties of Cayman (and there are many, I'm told) are all lost on me. And, they have no idea that the thing that induces them to that knowing nod and grin is a tacit admission that life in an earthly paradise dangerously dulls the senses and lulls an unwatchful man to a complacent, often slothful sleep. That's why my soul rejoiced this morning in this sermon, Boiling for Christ, from John Piper.

I also appreciated this call from Michael Haykin for churches in Ontario to rise up for Christ! It's a call that needs heeding everywhere Christ's people gathers. Here's his concluding paragraph:

Soldiers of Christ in truth arrayed, rise up and have done with lesser things and labour for the Master in this province. We must be assured that if we do not do it, God’s kingdom will come but He will use others to bring it in and pass us by. He is no man’s debtor, and simply because we are the heirs of a great past, does not mean he is obliged to use us. There are churches in this province with rich heritages but today they are living in those pasts, stuck in the ruts of their traditionalism. Look to Christ and break free from such bondages! Be again his free people–the glory of what it means to be Baptist (oh the vast diference between tradition and traditionalism). Be assured that if we do not, God can and will raise up others and other causes and they shall know his presence and have the joy of seeing sinners saved and the saints edified.

My brother Lance Lewis over at Blaque Tulip has been announcing the end of blackness for a couple weeks now. In his most recent post, he's loading the body of the Black Church into the hearse. You can also read parts one, two, and three.

Spurgeon says know what you're preaching about or sit down (HT: Debtor to Mercy via Justin Buzzard).

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Why I Stay Away from the Airport News Stand

There are a number of reasons. Chief among them are the scantily clad women airbrushed on slick magazine covers. But then there is the non-stop blaring of CNN or some other news station. And then there is what passes as "news." I found this item--not in the airport news stand--but while surfing the net waiting on my plane to board.

"State Sen. Ernie Chambers Sues God." I'll confess. I don't know whether to applaud the senator's concern over frivolous lawsuits or to rant against the silliness of a "justice" system that allows such a suit. I'm too tired to do both. I wonder if Hitchens, Dawkins and others will make it a class action suit.

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Between Trips

This week I'm between trips to Toronto and Washington, DC. So, I've not had much time to write and blog. But in the time the Lord has given me, for which I am thankful, I've had the privilege of doing an interview on transracial adoption with Dan Cruver and Carolina Hope Christian Adoption Agency.

Also, the brothers at NA gave me the privilege of reflecting a little bit on how to humbly approach orthodoxy as well as humbly represent it.

Also, Boundless extended an invitation to reflect on the blessing of God-ordained parental authority in our lives and how to honor it when we're "grown."

These are just the things I've been able to contribute elsewhere. Check out the ton of good work going on at these and related blogs. While things are a little slower here, I hope these are useful.

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Take Heed to Yourselves

From Richard Baxter's The Reformed Pastor:

"Take heed to yourselves lest you should be void of that saving grace of God which you offer to others, and be strangers to the effectual working of that gospel which you preach; and lest, while you proclaim the necessity of a Saviour to the world, your hearts should neglect him, and you should miss of an interest in him and his saving benefits. Take heed to yoruselves, lest you perish while you call upon others to take heed of perishing, and lest you famish yourselves while you prepare their food. Though there be a promise of shining as stars to those that turn many to righteousness (Dan. 12:3), this is but on supposition that they be first turned to it themselves: such promises are made caeteris paribus, et suppositis supponendis. Their own sincerity in the fiath is the condition of their glory simply considered, though thier great ministerial labours may be a condition of the promise of their greater glory. Many men have warned others that they comen not to the place of torment, which yet they hasted to themselves; many a preacher is now in hell, that hath an hundred times called upon his hearers to use the utmost care and diligence to escape it.

"Can any reasonable man imagine that God should save men for offering salvation to others, while they refused it themselves, and for telling others those truths which they themselves neglected and abused? Many a tailor goes in rags that maketh costly clothes for others; and many a cook scarce licks his fingers, when he hath dressed for others the most costly dishes. Believe it, brethren, God never saved an my for being a preacher, not because he was an able preacher; but because he was a justified, sanctified man, and consequently faithful in his Master's work.

"Take heed, therefore, to yourselves first, that you be that which you persuade others to be, and believe that which you persuade them daily to believe, and have heartily entertained that Christ and Spirit which you offer unto others. He that bade you love your neighbors as yourselves, did imply that you should love yourselves and not hate and destroy both yourselves and them."

Of Gospel-Less Gospel Preachers

"How horrible to be a preacher of the gospel and yet to be unconverted! Let each man here whisper to his own inmost soul, 'What a dreadful thing it will be for me if I should be ignorant of the power of the truth which I am preparing to proclaim!' Unconverted ministry involves the most unnatural relationships. A graceless pastor is a blind man elected to a professorship of optics, philosophising upon light and vision, discoursing upn and distinguishing to others the nice shads and delicate blendings of the prismatic colours, while he himself is absolutely in the dark! He is a dumb man elevated to the chair of music; a deaf man fluent upon symphonies and harmonies! He is a mole professing to educate eaglets; a limpet elected to preside over angels. ... It is a dreadful position for a man to be in, for he has undertaken a work for which he is totally, wholly, and altogether unqualified, but from the responsibilities of which this unfitness will not screen him, because he willfully incurred them. Whatever his natural gifts, whatever his mental powers may be, he is utterly out of court for spiritual work if he has no spiritual life; and it is his duty to cease the ministerial office til he has received this first and simplest of qualifications for it."

From C.H. Spurgeon's "The Minister's Self-Watch," Lectures to My Students (Christian Heritage, p. 10).

An Excruciating Case of Baptism and Membership

The blogosphere's recent roil over baaptism, membership and the Lord's supper has cooled a bit. That's probably good. It's the kind of conversation that requires reflection, not speed. But my wife passed along this personal situation involving baptism and membership. Obviously this situation is exceptional, but it's worth the read, prayer and counsel for our brother. For my money, make the local church's practice of baptism a higher priority than that of the parachurch organization.

Monday, September 17, 2007

Back in the Saddle Again...

It's good to be back home and back in the swing of things in Cayman after a wonderful trip to the warm?? climes of Toronto, Canada. Toronto is regarded as one of the most diverse cities in the world--and with good reason! It's one of only a couple places I've visited where I've ever really felt any level of culture shock. The Lord has brought the nations to its door, giving gospel-believing Christians there a great missions opportunity. I'm impressed with the need to pray more fervently for this city and its churches.

In addition to ordering up some warm weather for me, the folks there were wonderfully hospitable and encouraging in the Lord.

It was a great privilege to "bunk" with Ellen and Anand, transplanted Trinidadians who opened their home and literally showered me with generosity. Despite Anand's crazy work schedule, he and Ellen were tremendous hosts, and I won't soon forget their kindness.

My official Canadian tour guide and historian was Pastor Ken Davis, pastor of Thistletown Baptist Church. Ken is about as close to walking laughter and Christian joy as you'll find. And I love his deep love for his people at Thistletown. Saying he has "a pastor's heart" is too much of a cliche. He loves the people of the church and the community. It was a privilege to preach at Thistletown Baptist, a very diverse congregation that loves God's word and each other. They know how to make a brother feel right at home.

Later that evening I also had opportunity to fellowship with Pastor Paul Martin and the saints at Grace Fellowship Church of Toronto. Paul blogs over at Kerux Noemata. It was great to have time with the saints during the evening service, where Paul did an outstanding job meditating on the prayer life of Jesus. Paul is a towering figure in the pulpit! :-) And later, Paul and his lovely family opened their home to me and Tim Challies for a fun pizza dinner and conversation.

If you're in the Toronto area and looking for places where the word will be preached, I can't recommend Thistletown Baptist and Grace community highly enough.

The Sola Scriptura conference was also a great time of fellowship in the Lord. I learned a great deal about Islam from James White and Michael Haykin who both gave excellent talks on apologetics and the history of Islam, respectively. Heinz and the team at Sola Scriptura are to be commended for organizing an outstanding conference and fellowship. May the Lord bear much fruit from it.

And after a great several days in Canada, sampling Tim Horton (I must say I'm still a Krispy Kreme kinda guy) and thoroughly enjoying the body of Christ, I'm tremendously blessed to come home to my family and the saints of FBC. It's good to be back in the saddle.

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

The Greatest Sin Ever Planned

"The greatest sin that was ever committed in the history of the world... was planned by God, namely the death of His Son."

John Piper's concluding comment at Wheaton ("Treasuring Christ and the Call to Suffer," part 3).

Monday, September 10, 2007

Diary of a Mad Black Preacher

My man Lance Lewis is angry about the silence of African American churches and church leaders in the wake of recent domestic abuse scandal involving Juanita Bynum and Thomas Weeks. He's angry at the abuse of women, and he's angry at the Black churches silent acceptance of the false "gospel" of prosperity preachers. He writes over at Blaque Tulip:

Because of their high profile positions and marriage this incident has drawn national attention and in my view demands some kind of response from the church. And at this point I’m speaking particularly of the black church whether Pentecostal, Baptist, Methodist and Reformed (small as it may be). We have to respond because Mr. Weeks and Ms. Bynum represented a large and growing (and at this time the most influential) section of the black church and we accepted that. Few ever questioned their theology, their claims, their methods or their lifestyle. It seemed to matter little to us that almost every time they took the stage they systematically violated each of the first four commandments. If that weren’t enough it appears they consistently broke the ninth command and instead of keeping the tenth actually elevated it, turned it completely upside down and declared that covetousness is the real mark, purpose and goal of salvation and life.

All the while we for the most part stood by silently. They were black after all. If they wanted to engage in the organized crime of weekly flock fleecing well who were we to judge. No, for the black church (including some within the black reformed community) theology is the white man’s distraction. An opiate that would lull us to silence in the face of the "real" problems blacks folks face in white man’s America. I hate to say it but it seems that for far too many of us ethnic strife with our white brothers and the larger white society is THE issue. It’s as almost as if we didn’t care that week after week our people (whom we claim to represent and care for so much) were being fed poison that would corrupt their souls and destroy their lives. I wonder how would we respond if a white person stood up and told black people to send them the mortgage and rent money to receive their blessing? It seems that we’re all too willing to call a spade a spade as long as that spade sports a white visage.

Do I sound angry? Good because I am. I’m angry because it appears that it’s alright for black people to be led into gross idolatry as long as the high priests and priestesses are black like us. I’m angry because if a white evangelical got up and declared that churches separated along ethnic lines was the will of God we’d jump all over him, call for his immediate removal and demand an apology and retraction. Yet over and over and over again false prophets can recast and re-imagine God in their own image to line their pockets and for the most part we utter not a mumbling word.

Vintage R.C.

From R.C. Sproul's The truth of the Cross:

"The prevailing doctrine of justification today is not justification by faith alone. It's not even justification by good works or by a combination of faith and works. The prevailing notion of justification in Western culture today is justification by death. It's assumed that all one has to do to be received into everlasting arms of God is to die" (p. 10).

If you haven't picked up this gem of a book, I'd highly recommend it. R.C. does what he typically does with deep theological truths and centuries of Christian history--he simplifies it and presses it home in tremendously helpful ways. I plan on doing two things with this book:

1. Begin reading it for the first 10 minutes of our Wednesday night Bible study class; and

2. Buying a bunch and giving them to members of the church.

When you read The Truth of the Cross, you easily recognize why R.C. is loved as a Bible teacher and worthy of the recent lifetime achievement honors he's received.

Thursday, September 06, 2007

Around the Blog in 80 Seconds

Upcoming Conference

It's the land of really nice people, a quarter of my congregation, and Tim Horton's!

Today, I have the privilege of heading off to Toronto, Canada to participate in the Sola Scriptura Ministries conference "Christianity--Islam: Two Faiths! Two Worldviews! One God?" It should be a great time of fellowship and study. I'm looking forward to hearing both Dr. Michael Haykin and Dr. James White open the word and guid us through the history of Islam and some apologetics. I have the privilege of sharing on the popular Islamic worldview, jihad, and basics of evangelism. If you can't join us, pray for us as we gather and reflect on this important topic.

What Seminaries Need
Speaking of Dr. Haykin, you mght enjoy this post (The Top Ten Needs of a Theological School) over at his blog. Haykin is well-equipped to offer these reflections. He led Toronto Baptist Seminar for some time and is a gifted educator.

Debating the Crucifixion

If you're in the Seattle, WA area on Friday, Oct. 19th, you might check out a debate on the crucifixion of Christ between James White and Muslim apologist Shabir Ally.

New Attitude Blog

The brothers at New Attitude are opening their blogging doors to a number of characters who themselves need new attitudes! Justin Taylor (Between Two Worlds), Justin Buzzard (Buzzard Blog), Josh Harris (JoshHarris.com), Eric Simmons, Doug Hayes (Covenant Mercies), Issac Hydoski (ONE), Joe Stigora, and Ricky Alcantar, and the chief of sinners needing an atttitude adjustment, me, join to reflect on humble orthodoxy and the call to follow Jesus. I'm looking forward to a fun time of blogging with a cast of characters who are humble, funny, insightful, and passionate about the truth.

Tuesday, September 04, 2007

Surprising Sources of Joy in Pastoral Ministry, 9

One of my weaknesses is that I have a hard time letting people care for me. I move between pride, on the one hand, and a kind of concern for inconveniencing others, on the other. Actually, as I think about it, pride is probably at the root of both responses. Man! Pride is subtle.

Anyway, I have to work on killing pride so that I might be cared for by others. In my own mind and heart, I've probably perverted the notion that it's better to give than to receive so that I'm ever the giver and never the receiver.

Practically speaking, this robs me of one source of joy the Lord intends pastors to receive in the course of their ministries. The Apostle Paul is our model. He writes to the Philippians, "I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it" (Eph. 4:10).

It's a little difficult for me to be easy with the apostle's reaction here. People express a renewed concern for him and he "rejoices greatly." To my proud ears it sounds as though the apostle is taking advantage of someone or overly concerned with his needs above others. After all, isn't he the one who wrote think more highly of others than you do yourself? That's my head blabbing.

But here's what I've discovered since coming to FBC Grand Cayman. The numerous and wonderful ways in which the people here have loved on my family and me have caused us to "rejoice greatly in the Lord." The truth of the apostle's words, though slowly seeping into my head, have been quickly attested to by my heart and experience with the saints here. We praise God for the tangible and specific acts of concern and care we've received from the body here. They have been acts of genuine love, and by God's design acts that excite joy in the pastoral ministry.

Just a few examples:

1. There's a lady in the church with an evident gift for hospitality, and she uses it liberally in the church. On a couple occasions, unprompted, out of the fullness of her heart, she has prepared appreciation dinners for the staff. My wife and I have benefited in a number of ways, but I'll mention two that really stirred joy in our hearts. After a Wednesday night Bible study, this young woman catered a surprise birthday party for my wife, featuring my wife's new favorite dish--Cayman-style lobster. My wife and I celebrated our 16th anniversary this past weekend. I didn't even know the lady knew it was our anniversary. She arranged for people to keep our children over night and sent a professional chef to prepare a dinner in our home! It was a joyous time! Her concern for us has been overwhelming.

2. I recall the night we moved into our place here in Cayman. Probably five couples descended on our home and took over the unpacking and assembling of furniture. It was a great blessing.

3. Then there are the three or four older members of the church who have a special ministry of encouragement to me. They very frequently find me after the service to encourage me in some specific way. And they drop by the office from time to time "just to check on me" and bring me fresh fruit. I'm gaining weight through their concern, but I like to think of weight gain as lingering evidence of previous joy :-).

4. The elders show constant concern for me as they ask about my schedule, balance, and commitments. As they've been helping me to think through these things, I've greatly rejoiced in the Lord at the blessing that they are and the tangible expression of love that their concern represents.

Honestly, I could go on and on. The Lord has been tremendously kind in sending me to the people of FBC. I greatly rejoice in Him. And, honestly, I'm surprised by how much joy comes from letting others care for you--not out of some sense of just deserts or anything like that, but from a sincere heart of love and mutual care.

To my pastor friends, notice in the second part of verse 10 that Paul recognized there are sometimes circumstances in which a people are unable to express concern. A couple of questions: (1) Are there any ways, like me in my pride, that you tend to deny people opportunity to care for you? (2) Is your lack of joy in ministry, to the extent that you lack joy, connected with the inability or failure of the people to show their concern for you? If so, how will you labor to remove that inability and/or express your need in a humble, godly way that invites care for you (and your family)?

To members of local churches, notice that the Philippians were eager to show their concern for the apostle, even to the point of sharing in his troubles (4:14). A couple of questions: (1) In what way can you work to be sure your pastor is "amply supplied" (4:18) and greatly rejoicing in the Lord for your concern for him and his family? How can you tangibly express loving care for your pastors today or this week? (2) What barriers in the life of the congregation need to be removed in order for the body to grow in this way? How can you lovingly point those barriers out to others and collectively express greater love for your shepherds?

Life in the local church is meant to be joyous for all, for pastor and people. Perhaps there is no better way for us to strengthen our joy in the Lord than to care well for one another in all things. May the Lord help us to do so.

Thursday, August 30, 2007

Surprising Sources of Joy in Pastoral Ministry, 8

All of the world seems aimed at the pursuit of possession. When we're children we want toys. When we're teenagers we want the coolest clothes and a car. Soon we're off to college, hopefully one of the "better" institutions for our selected major. Not long after college we want the dream job and, of course, a better car to suit our "status." Then we purchase our first home. That "starter" home gives way to the "upgrade" or the "dream home." We fill that box with all kinds of furnishings and things to make it suit our tastes. Sea-Doos, boats, plasma TVs and the like become the grown-up version of the toys we played with as kids. A "mid-life crisis" may change everything. Time for the sportier car, the trendier clothes, and sometimes a new "trophy" spouse.

The philosophy seems to be "Get all you can, can all you get, then sit on your can.

Increasingly, large television ministries and pastors tell us that the pastor and Christians should live this way. Of course, they tell us, "it's okay to have possessions, just don't let possessions have you." But the gist is that the good life consists of the abundance of possessions. Success and joy in the ministry is defined by affluence, possessions, and jet-setting with the elites.

Enter the Apostle Paul...

Whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ--the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow to attain to the resurrection from the dead.

Mega-watt bishop says, "God wants you rich and to enjoy the finer things in life."

Spirit inspired Apostle Paul says, "Whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. I consider everything loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Jesus Christ my Lord."

We would do well if we would resist the siren song of success and materialism sung by bishop worldly wise man and wife, and heed the great profit and loss statement the apostle writes of in Phil. 3:7-11.

The formula is simple:

Everything in the world = loss, rubbish, dung, trash.

Knowing Jesus Christ = Infinite Treasure, wonder, and joy.

Therefore, Christ > everything in the world.

Amass everything in the world... all its currency, minerals and natural resources, people, ideas, pleasures and everything else that's good and joyous... calculate its present net value... choose any multiple and multiply it with present net value... and compare the total worth in monetary, social, and emotional terms and all of it is surpassed by the glorious joy of knowing Christ.

The pastor (and every Christian) may uniquely know the joys of Christ if he would learn this calculus. Gain the world without Christ and lose everything. Gain Christ and forsake the world and gain everything. "Christ is gain!"

And that is the source of tremendous, indescribable joy in pastoral ministry. Man, I'm constantly surprised at how long and sucky the tentacles of the world are. They keep suctioning onto our souls, winding around our affections, and drawing us into the world and the murky depths of false joy.

And thus far in my short life, I've not found anything that helps me to war against the pull of worldliness and temporal joy quite like the unique privilege of serving full time in pastoral ministry. It's a great privilege to rise each day knowing that I may count everything as loss for the sake of Christ and not lose one thing of eternal worth! It's a great privilege to have a vocation that focuses me on that specific truth and the application of it in my life and the lives of my people. "Not that I've already obtained all this"--not by a long shot! But I find great encouragement in the fact that the Lord has seen fit to bless my soul in this way through the ministry itself, through the call to 'let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also' and to live for Christ.

I once heard someone say they were not holy enough to not be in the pastorate. They commented that if they were in secular employment without the strictures, structure and privileges of pastoral ministry, their lives would drift toward worldliness, or at least the battle against it would be more pitched with perhaps more setbacks. I think I know what they mean. It's not as though work outside full-time Christian ministry is "less spiritual" or something, or doesn't afford helps and advantages in the pursuit of Christ, but there is a sweet grace poured out on the minister as he labors faithfully for Christ, hungering and thirsting after him, panting and longing for a glimpse of His glory, searching the Scripture for the merest sighting of His face. As the world recedes, the Savior looms larger and larger in our view. Even "the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death" is but a foretaste of glorious joy at being counted worthy to suffer for the Name (Acts 5:41).

I wonder how much of our unhappiness and stress in the ministry is connected with our worldliness, our love for this life, where there should be an adoring abandon for Christ. How often do we pierce ourselves through with sorrows because we cry "Christ is loss and the world is gain"?

The surprising thing, the non-conventional wisdom is that "if we gain Christ and [are] found in Him," counting everything else loss, then we have great gain and "a surpassingly great knowledge" that leads to all joy. I wonder what, by God's grace, I'll have the joy of counting as loss today?

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

9Marks on Race and the Church

The latest edition of 9News ejournal is available. It's an issue focusing on the thorny issue of race and the church. There are a number of provocative pieces in the issue, and Jonathan Leeman is to be commended for working so hard (as usual) on giving us much to think about. And personally, it's been fun to have the privilege to contribute to this issue. I pray it's edifying for the Lord's Church.

Contents

IS THERE A RACE PROBLEM?
Starting the Conversation with Earth, Wind, and Fire
An exchange between Thabiti Anyabwile and Jonathan Leeman

Pastors’ and Theologians’ Forum on Race

Nine Lessons I Learned From Yellow (And One More) By Sam Lam

Did Moses Marry a Black Woman? By John Piper

REFLECTIONS ON THE PROBLEM
Book Review: On Being Black and Reformed By Anthony J. Carter
Reviewed By Rickey Armstrong

Book Review: From Every People and Nation By J. Daniel Hays
Reviewed by Anthony J. Carter

Book Review: The Faithful Preacher By Thabiti Anyabwile
Reviewed by Ken Jones

Book Review: Reconciliation Blues By Edward Gilbreath
Reviewed by Eric C. Redmond

Book Review: Being Latino in Christ By Orlando Crespo
Reviewed by Juan R. Sanchez Jr.

Book Reviews: Growing Healthy Asian American Churches Edited by Peter Cha, S. Steve Kang, and Helen Lee
Reviews by Jeremy Yong & Geoffrey Chang

Five Steps for Racial Reconciliation on Sunday at 11 a.m.
By D. A. Carson

OVERCOMING THE PROBLEM
Pastoring a Multi-Ethnic Church By John Folmar

Many Ethnicities, One Race By Thabiti Anyabwile

Surprising Sources of Joy in Pastoral Ministry, 7

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed--not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence--continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

What are those things that rob a pastor of joy in his labors?

There are many things, I suppose. But surely high on the list are a people who take their salvation and progress in Christ for granted, who think that growth occurs by merely sitting and waiting. These are often times the same folks who lift their voices in the whiniest complaints. They want everything on the proverbial silver platter. They want life "cushy" and cozy, warm and fuzzy, with no fuss. Every inconvenience is too inconvenient. A good patch of western Christianity suffers from this distorted understanding of the Christian life. We find easy believism and cheap grace almost everywhere, and seemingly constant bickering and backbiting among Christians can almost completely drain a man of joy in the ministry. It's amazing how an inadequate understanding of the use of ordinary means in sanctification, perseverance and the like can eat away at joy in the Christian life.

Interestingly, Philippians 2:12 follows right on the heels of the famous hymn celebrating the humility and subsequent exaltation of Christ. The "therefore" beginning the section signals the practical application of Paul's recitation of that hymn. Before the hymn, the apostle indicated that his joy would be complete if the Philippian church were like-minded, sharing the same love and purpose (2:2). Now, he turns to the surprising source of joy he receives as the Philippians live out the incarnation-, atonement- and exaltation-centered humility of Christ.

First, they are to work out their salvation with fear and trembling. They are to continue on in obedience, as they started in Paul's presence and now in his absence. The basis for continuing in obedience to Christ is the realization that it is actually God working on their wills and their actions in accord with His good pleasure (2:13; see Carson, Basics for Believers, 62-63). The option of resting on their laurels is removed; their wills and actions must be exercised. But also removed is the notion that it all depends on them, on their heroic effort and energy. For it is God working on their wills and actions. Human responsibility and divine sovereignty meet in the outworking of their redemption. Christian growth is not by osmosis but by work--God's and ours.

Second, there is to be no complaining and arguing. Why? So that their purity would brilliantly shine like stars against the dark backdrop of a depraved society. So that they would be seen for what they really are, children of God possessing the word of life.

Now Paul concludes that if they were to pursue conformity to Christ in this way, to live pure lives without murmuring and grumbling, not only would they shine, they would be his boast and evidence of the fruitfulness of his ministry (v. 16). To see them live that way would bring him joy. To see them progressing in sanctification, delighting in obedience, would be cause for happiness in the ministry. He says that even if he, through persecution, hardship, imprisonment, and perhaps martyrdom is "poured out like a drink offering" on top of their "sacrifice and service" of faith, he would be glad and rejoice (2:17). In other words, the joy of seeing our people's progress is greater than the misery of persecution. A pastor may rejoice at every sling and arrow he takes when his people are his boast due to their progress in Christ, their working out their salvation.

I love C.J. Mahaney's sermon "The Transforming Effect of a Divine Perspective." It's a meditation on 1 Corinthians and how it is that the Apostle Paul, with all that church's problems, could say that they were "the seal of his apostleship." C.J. expands on the notion of a divine perspective by emphasizing the need to "look for evidences of grace" in one another. It's a good exhortation and well worth the listen if you haven't heard it before.

I suspect that, hardships and unpleasant people aside, joy in pastoral ministry might be significantly increased if pastors relentlessly focused on the evidences of God's grace among the people. We'd be happier if we spent more time with and listening to people who were not arguing or complaining in some way. We'd be more encouraged if we plotted and probed to identify in every member some way in which they by God's gracious action were working out their salvation in fear in trembling. How encouraging would it be to turn through our church's directories and be able to say for each person, "Here are 2-3 ways in which I've seen this person pressing toward the mark in the past 6 months"?

How much easier it would be to extend a rebuke where necessary if the overarching view of our people focused on the commendable ways in which they are progressing. If a pastor can note in his directory evident and subtle ways in which his people are progressing, correction would be more joyous. It would more often be seen for the loving course adjustment in the context of Christward progress that we all sometimes need, rather than the embattled and beleaguered lashing of wayward sheep that often lies next to anger, bitterness, unkindness, and the fear of man.

I think we might be surprised at how much joy there is available to us by a careful examination of the lives of our people, an examination not for fault and failure (for there will be plenty of that) but for progress in the faith and the work of Christ on their wills and actions. I suspect there is a wellspring of joy available to us if we look for it. And as men committed to having our people arrive before Christ prepared for eternity, I can't think of a greater source of encouragement and joy in the ministry than to actually see evidence of their preparation for that glorious Day. Forget about numbers and programs and the like. Is there any joy comparable to the joy of noticing heaven in your people before your people are in heaven?

It's not surprising, then, that Paul would happily offer himself as a libation atop the sacrifice and service of the Philippian's faith. It's worth it when we know the joy of our people's progress in Christ.

Monday, August 27, 2007

Husband-Wife Co-Pastors?

It was once a rising trend. It's now a model for ministry for significant numbers of churches and pastors. It simultaneously offers itself as an example of deep partnership between husbands and wives, and dismisses biblical instruction. What am I talking about? The widespread approach to pastoral ministry where a husband and a wife "co-pastor" a local church.

Among that branch of "evangelicalism" (I'm using the term loosely) typically associated with Word of Faith, prosperity "gospel," charismatic believers, this approach to ministry appears to be dominant.

The trend grew slowly. Generally a man pastoring a church would achieve a certain status. After a few years, his wife, typically called the "first lady" of the church, would be noted for some teaching gifts and call to ministry. She would make occasional appearances in the pulpit to improve her gift, but not too many appearances to upset those discerning some problem with the practice. Over time, she'd appear more and more in the pulpit, relieving the husband while he was away and shepherding the people as a "pastor."

It's been a silent revolution. Not many shots have been fired at all really. It has occurred like so many other errors in that camp of contemporary Christianity--while auditoriums are filled with people, Bibles open, taking notes, and swallowing the camel.

Kenneth, then Gloria, Copeland. Creflo, then Taffy, Dollar. Randy, then Paula, White. To a lesser extent, T.D., then Serita, Jakes. These high-profile preachers have spawned a practice of ministry that now replicates itself in strip malls and megachurches around the country.

Recently, one couple, Paula and Randy White, announced before their 23,000 member church in Florida that they are seeking a divorce (HT: Sharper Iron). Paula and Randy have pastored the church since its founding. Understandably, the news of their divorce shocked and hurt a lot of the church's members.

But in recent years, Paula has well eclipsed her husband in popularity and ministry. She is a frequent conference speaker and hosts regular shows on BET and TBN. Emulating in many respects the ethos of black women preachers, and preaching "health and wealth," Paula is something of a rock star in some circles.

The sad announcement of their divorce prompts a number of questions about the nature of gender roles in the church and marriage, and the effect of such ministry models on the local church.

1. Can such a practice be consistent with complementarian gender roles at church and home? Most everyone I know who thinks this is not only an acceptable but a good model would say "yes." In other words, most of the folks I know in this camp and ministers who adopt this practice intend to be complementarians. They preach a great deal on the home and family, the necessity of male headship, and female submission in the home. They would argue that a woman should only have a ministry of this sort with her husband "as her covering," exercising headship by granting approval/support; otherwise, a wife should not have such a ministry. Leaving aside for a moment the myriad of theological difficulties with the position, can it even work practically? I have my doubts. In the case of the Whites, Paula is continuing on with her ministries, establishing a home in another city, and with her husband dissolving the marriage. It would seem that at essence the model is egalitarian and models a "partnership" model of marriage that distorts biblical gender roles. And the families of the church have, whether knowingly or not, been imbibing from their "pastors" a model for family life ill-fitted to the biblical design and their joy.

2. Can such a practice be consistent with a high view of biblical authority in the church and the home? Again, most people in these camps would say "yes." They would appeal to examples of women prophets in the Scriptures and reason that Paul's prohibition against women in authority was cultural, time and circumstance-bound. It was a woman who brought news of Jesus resurrection to men and so women ought be able to preach, especially under the "covering" of their husbands. But that clearly contradicts Paul's instructions in 1 Tim. 2. And the attempt to justify the practice is little more than setting aside the authority of Scripture. And not surprisingly, the church suffers great confusion.

3. Can there be any genuine biblical accountability of such couples? Given that the authority of the scriptures is set aside on so basic a matter as who God appoints to lead in the home and the church, it's difficult to imagine that there can be any real accountability for "co-pastors" in these situations. Most of these churches are set up like corporations, not like NT churches. So, typically, husband and wife are founding board members along with a couple other trusted friends. Nothing appears to be governed in either a congregational or a connectional manner. So, there is no higher "court" than the co-pastors themselves. When trouble hits, appeal is made to "life coaches" and trusted friends as accountability partners. It's really an unloving, unscriptural and dangerous position for the "pastors" and the church. Paula will continue with her ministry pursuits. Randy will continue as pastor of Without Walls. This is the second divorce for them both, a divorce proceeding without any biblical grounds according to the article. The model appears closed to any loving, biblical accountability that would help the couple fight for their marriage, submit to the counsel and discipline of the church, and model grace during real difficulty for the congregation.

This approach to ministry is bankrupt because it's so consistently contrary to God's blueprint. The couples approaching the ministry this way are placing themselves in spiritually precarious situations, and the churches they "pastor" are toeing a cliff as well. It's obvious, but it bears stating: we desperately need churches reformed according to the word of God.

Friday, August 24, 2007

John Calvin on the "Prosperity Gospel"

Okay... that's an anachronistic title for this post. But reading through Calvin's sermons on the beatitudes, I came across this section which seemed so prophetically to apply to our day. It's a long quote, but worth it.

"Someone might ask whether it is right for God's children to be rich, to employ the good things which God so generously gives and to derive pleasure from them. After all, our text says "Woe to you who laugh. Woe to you rich. Woe to you when men speak well of you." "What's this?" you say. "Is it wrong to lead a good and virtuous life and to be well spoken of? Doesn't St. Paul urge us to do good in the sight of all? Don't we read somewhere else that every mouth should be stopped and that men should glorify God when they see us walking in his fear?" We might, then, think it harsh and puzzling that the rich, the comfortably off, and the happy should be condemned.

"Now that is not what our Lord is saying here. What he is condemning is the attitude of those who, intent on living well in this world, as so stupid and senseless as to forget there is a heavenly kingdom. This will be clearer if we think of how believers behave when times are good. If God sends them peace and prosperity, they will give him the praise; they will use his gifts soberly, endeavouring always to live an upright life. They will not want to squander such gifts, but they will recognize them as blessings from God. Or again, if someone possesses a rare gift of God's Spirit, he will not pretend he doesn't have it, for that would be mere hypocrisy. So whether believers are rich, or in robust health, or wonderfully endowed with the Spirit's gifts, they acknowledge that God's favour is its only source. Their joy is real, and so is their thanksgiving. That is how they will use the good tings of this present life.

"Nevertheless, while life for believers may be easy today, they will be ready tomorrow to endure whatever afflictions God may send them. He may, perhaps, take from them the goods he has given. They are prepared to surrender them, since they know they received them on one condition--that they should hand them back whenever God should choose. The believer reasons this way: "Rich today, poor tomorrow. If God should change my circumstances so that ease gives way to suffering and laughter to tears, it is enough to know that I am still his child. He has promised to acknowledge me always as his, and in that I rest content."

"That, I repeat, is how believers will behave. They will live soberly, tightening their belts if that is necessary; they will be self-controlled, telling themselves that though they may rise to eminent rank and enjoy untold pleasure, they must set their sights on higher things. The good things given by God are but a path to lead us to him, a ladder to ascend on high, not a tomb in which to bury ourselves. We should not cling to happiness or greet its passing with a hollow laugh, for it is fleeting. Nor should we exult when men applaud us, as if we had already attained our reward for a virtuous life on earth. No, we are determined to press on through good report and bad. Such is the measured and moderate path pursued by the believer. We do not get drowsy, still less intoxicated, when times are good. And we are always willing to abandon everything if God requires. This is not how it is with unbelievers. Prosperity goes immediately to their heads, fills them to bursting; they are so befuddled that not once do they spare a thought for God or the spiritual life. In time they grow hard, and when misfortune comes they grind their teeth and blaspheme against God.

"This is how we are to interpret the woes spoken against the rich, the satisfied, those who laugh and are glad. Remember Job, who amidst his suffering proclaimed: "If we have received good things from God's hand, why should we not also receive the bad?" There is no doubt that this was something which Job had thought hard about--a treasure, so to speak, to be disclosed at the right time and place. We see then that although God may spare us and give us reason to rejoice, we should expect to receive both good and bad from his hand. Not reluctantly or because we are compelled, but meekly and cheerfully, obedient to his will. For he must rule us, not according to our own likes but according to what he knows is best and most expedient for us. We are confident that all things will work for our salvation: that is our motive for rejoicing.

"That is the sense of Jesus' teaching in this passage. To be rich, to be glad, to be satisfied is to be drunk on prosperity and to live the life of senseless beasts. If we are comfortably off, it is not so that we may cover ourselves with gold and silver, or boast of owning fields and meadows, like those whose goal in life is to have everything they want. Those kinds of people are as good as dead: they bury themselves in their perishable possessions and are incapable of seeing heaven above. As for us, we must take heed to ourselves lest the Son of God condemn us with his own lips: only by looking to him for continual blessing can we escape the misfortune promised here. We are taught, then, to pass through this world as strangers, convinced, as St. Paul says, that those who have should be as those who have not. No one would deny that those who have plenty to live on meet many more temptations and run more risk of falling. They need, therefore, to turn constantly to God, and to learn that his gifts are meant to draw them closer to him, to quicken their love and to encourage their obedience. The good things they receive must never bewitch them to the point that they become captives to the world.

"In the midst of plenty we must guard against greedy excess, lest we choke ourselves and bring this curse upon us: Woe to you who are filled. If we are to be filled, it is in a different way--by contemplating God's face, as we read in Psalm 16. We should regard material possessions simply as props to help us, until we see the Father face to face. He is our bliss and happiness. By all means let us laugh, but in the manner of those who are ready to weep should that be God's will. Our joy should be joined with sadness, and with compassion for those who suffer. No one should live apart from others, and all should rejoice whenever God's name is honored. Yes, rejoice, even when we have reason to feel sad and gloomy. Conversely, it may be that we are fine, in the best of spirits. But supposing there is some dire trouble in the church, or God's name is blasphemed, held up to shame or ridicule--that should give us cause for grief, grief deeper even than the joy we felt. At such a time we ought to moderate the happiness which earthly blessings bring. We ought, as the proverb says, to mix water with our wine."

John Calvin, Sermons on the Beatitudes (Banner of Truth), pp. 77-80.

Thursday, August 23, 2007

Surprising Sources of Joy in Pastoral Ministry, 6

If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose (Phil. 2:1-2).

Theology is tremendously practical. Never let anyone drive a wedge between good theology and "practical" information. The Apostle Paul (one of the writers of Scripture) never falls into that trap. He never writes as though some lofty statement about God is really merely a frill, a lace doily on an otherwise useless idea. He writes in such a way as to maintain profound and necessary connections between theology and practice. And sometimes surprising things emerge.

For example, in Phil. 2:1-2, the Apostle begins as he often does with good theology... reminders really of astounding truths:

1. Christians are united with Christ; our lives are joined with His through faith. We are accepted in Him; He is our Head and we His body. We are one new man in Christ.

2. Christians draw comfort from Christ's love. And who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Can anything in this life or the next, in this world or the one to come? What comfort is offered by the knowledge of God's unchanging, unshakeable love in Christ!

3. Christians "fellowship with the Spirit." We commune together with the Third Person of the Godhead, the Spirit through whom the love of God is poured into our hearts, by Whom the Father and the Son come to us and take up residence, and by Whom we cry out, "Abba, Father!"

4. Christians have new hearts. Where a stone once filled the cavity of our souls, now there beats a heart of flesh, a heart of Christlike compassion and tenderness. Christians are now free and empowered to love like God loves as the new heart of the new covenant throbs in our breasts.

That's all theology. And then the Apostle shows the practical implications of that theology. Christians, then:

1. Should be like-minded. With Christ as head, with the same mind or attitude of Christ (v. 5), Christians can and should experience a great deal of unity of thought and sentiment.

2. Have the same love. No longer are there variations in our love according to natural affiliations (ethnicity, class, etc), but now Christians love their brethren as Christ has loved them, not regarding one another according to the flesh but according to the shared life and love of Christ in us all.

3. Should be one in spirit and purpose. Where does unity in the church come from? It springs, it seems, from the application of good theology. Right thoughts about God lead to right living. Properly understanding our fellowship with the Spirit of God leads to oneness in spirit and purpose with His people.

Paul beseeches the Christians to remember the truth about God they've been taught and then to live that truth out in their relationship with one another.

And this, he tells us, will "make [his] joy complete." Whatever is lacking in the Apostle's joy is supplied by the Philippian Christians walking in the knowledge of God. The Apostle John says the same thing: "It gave me great joy to have some brothers come and tell about your faithfulness to the truth and how you continue to walk in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth" (3 John 3-4).

Seeing his people walk in the truth was for Paul a complete joy, and for John the greatest joy. And so it is with the pastor and his people. Perhaps there is no sweeter joy than to see your people lay hold to the truth, imbibe it, make it apart of themselves, and walk it out.

I don't know that I've been more encouraged than when I've seen Christians take some teaching of God's word and really accept it as truth (which is in itself a declaration that truth exists and matters), walk in it, and rejoice in it. A pastor may rightfully be surprised by the joy he finds in ministry when amidst difficult situations (the loss of loved ones, persecution, the threat of divorce, debilitating disease, and so on) his people stand and walk in the truth.

And if a pastor frequently and consistently comes close to the sheep, he may not only smell the sheepiness of sheep but also rejoice that they hear the Shepherd's voice and follow Him. And what undershepherd is not pleased that the flock follow the Chief Shepherd? Unique among the joys of ministry is to see the truth of God seep into the hearts of His people and overflow in like-mindedness, mutual love, common cause, humility and service.

This joy, when it's observed, surpasses even the joy the preacher-pastor receives as he studies and prepares to teach. What sweet fellowship with the Spirit and Christ study and preparation is. And how much sweeter to see the fruit of that study in the lives of your people, to see the Spirit at work in the word and the walk. Pastors have no greater joy, no more complete joy, than to see their people walk in the truth.

To experience this joy more fully, we have only to do two things:
1. Keep teaching the truth with patience, clarity, gentleness and joy; and
2. Develop skill at looking for evidence of the truth working itself out in our people, to see them walking in it.

Therein is complete joy in pastoral ministry.

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

Surprising Sources of Joy in Pastoral Ministry, 5

When is penultimate pleasure a better choice than ultimate pleasure? If given the choice between something far superior and a relatively inferior alternative, when is it good to choose the inferior?

Not many things come to mind for me. It seems we’re wired to always choose the superior thing. After all, it’s “superior.”

The Apostle Paul faced a choice of this nature, a choice between something “better by far” and what might be called an inferior but good alternative. He writes in Philippians 2:18:26—

Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.

After telling his readers that he rejoiced whether Christ was preached out of false motives or true as long as Christ was preached, the Apostle then writes that he will continue to rejoice because of the deliverance he expects. Shackled and imprisoned, the Apostle faces the future with confidence that Christ will be exalted whether he lives or dies and that he will not be ashamed. “For to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

And there is the dilemma. Here is where the Apostle is torn and pulled between two poles, one superior and the other a good inferior. Departing to be with Christ “is better by far.”

I wonder how often we meditate on that truth. How often do we consider the “better by far” wonder of being with Christ? Is that Day consistently before us? Is that expectation strong and compelling, or is it stacked in a corner with other Christmas goodies we played with for a day only to abandon and forget when the next toy was unwrapped?

The Apostle finds Christ far better than anything on this earth. And so should we. And yet, he goes on to write that it was necessary for others that he should remain for their “progress and joy in the faith.” Paul expected that his being with the Philippians again would lead to their overflowing joy in Christ Jesus.

Here, then, might be the only time where a good inferior alternative may be desired over the far better, superior choice—when others also will enter into the far better life with Christ.

It’s quite likely that the Apostle found great happiness in seeing the Philippians’ progress and joy in Christ. This is one of the surprising sources of joy in the pastoral ministry—recognizing that the hardships, if we don’t faint, lead to the blessing of God’s people. By God’s grace, we may live through tumultuous and difficult times to see the glorious goodness of it all worked by the hand of God. We have the privilege of working for our people’s joy and growth in Christ, an overflowing joy “on account of” the pastor. That God is pleased to use vessels of dust to work such treasure is a great privilege. And though it would be far better to be with Christ, how tremendous a reunion will it be when we all get to heaven and the pastor and his people acknowledge before Christ that the pastor was used to fit them for that Day.

Are we facing hardships? Imprisonment? Opposition from within and without?

Are we tempted to think it would be better by far if we were to lay down this earthly tabernacle and be clothed with the heavenly one? Without doubt we are correct to think that the heavenly dress is better than the earthly.

And yet, in God’s kindness to his ministers, the good inferior choice of laboring for the joy and progress of His people is rewarded with joy in this life as we see Christian maturity unfold and rewarded eternally when stand with our people before our King and really rejoice!

Tuesday, August 21, 2007

Will God Receive the Glory?

The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops (James 5:16-18)

This post is a thank you and a question.

First, THANK YOU so very much to all of those out there who prayed for the Caribbean, Grand Cayman, and First Baptist Church as hurricane Dean twisted its way through our region. We heard from many people and churches that they were or would be praying, and we are greatly humbled and thankful at that tangible expression of love, lifting us up before our Father and yours.

Apparently there is an Elijah in the land... for the Lord heard the prayers of His people and turned the storm south such that we received some tropical storm winds and very little rain or flooding. Everyone breathed a sigh of relief. And many people on the island are grateful to the Lord.

Which brings me to my question: will God receive glory for the great things He has done in this storm?

I know He will eternally. And I know many will exalt Him in the days and weeks ahead. But how many will cover over His work--first in creating the storm, and second in turning the waters whichever way He pleases?

I suspect many will. And I've noticed already the tendency in myself. It's not an outright rejection of God or denial in some hostile way. It's the more subtle, practical atheism that fails to give Him praise or speaks in that empty God-talk that those who don't know Him practice.

So, I've heard folks say, "I'm glad the storm turned," as though by naming the storm "Dean" it takes on personhood and rational ability. Others have commented, "We were spared," as though some disembodied cosmic judge showed mercy. Then there are those who say, "We missed a big one," as if we were somehow steering the island out of the storm's course. There is the idolatrous variety that admits to God, but insists, "We just needed to touch and agree and demand by that God would move the storm."

I think we all mean well with comments like this. But they strike me as missing the mark, that is, missing God himself.

The sentences are economical; they're brief. But I wonder if we ought not be longer-winded in these opportunities to ascribe greatness to God. Or, at least, we should sharpen the point by speaking of Jesus so that our hearers are not left guessing which God we believe has heard our prayers and answered.

So, we might say something like, "Jesus spared us." Then we can go on to say, "You know, though we felt spared by Christ, one day we all will appear before Him to give an account for our lives on earth. Are you taken as many precautions for that Day as you did for the day "Dean" blew by?"

Or, we could say, "God the Father turned this storm away from us. I'm thankful I have a heavenly Father who hears the cries of His people and answers according to His good pleasure."

I'm not sure what to do with our Word-of-Faith friends naming and claiming, demanding and standing on certain promises from God. Perhaps the best thing in that case is to simply be quiet lest we hold up an idol of our making before people who need to see the living God.

In any case, I'm reminded that I need to speak of the wonders of God more frequently and with greater specificity than I have. I need to resist conversational shorthand, perhaps taking a pass on some comments altogether, and speak more carefully of God with the hopes of being sure He gets all the glory.

The island is resuming its pre-storm hum. Things are quickly back to "normal"? Please pray that "normal" life among us is not a life that fails to exalt and exult in the God who saves us.

Monday, October 08, 2007

Thursday, October 04, 2007

Wednesday, October 03, 2007

Monday, October 01, 2007

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Monday, September 17, 2007

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Monday, September 10, 2007

Thursday, September 06, 2007

Tuesday, September 04, 2007

Thursday, August 30, 2007

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

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Friday, August 24, 2007

Thursday, August 23, 2007

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